Titans Make Late Changes as Injuries Ravage Squad Ahead of Cowboys Clash
The Gold Coast Titans have been forced to make a significant spine switch ahead of their XXXX Derby clash with the North Queensland Cowboys on Sunday due to a string of injuries.
Key Changes in the Lineup
Titans coach Des Hasler has confirmed that halfback Tanah Boyd will shift to five-eighth, while hooker Erin Clark will move into the halfback role. Isaac Liu will make his first start of the season at prop, while Corey Thompson will start on the wing.
Injury Toll Takes Its Toll
The Titans have been dealt a cruel blow with injuries to Corey Norman (concussion), Beau Fermor (hamstring), and Jayden Campbell (knee). This has left the team with just one player on the bench, forcing Hasler to make wholesale changes to his starting lineup.
Cowboys No Strangers to Adversity
The Cowboys are no strangers to adversity this season, having lost four of their last five games. They will be looking to bounce back from their disappointing 26-20 loss to the Canterbury Bulldogs last week.
Big Names Return for Cowboys
Despite the Titans’ injury woes, the Cowboys have welcomed back experienced forwards Jason Taumalolo and Reuben Cotter from injury. The return of these two key players will be a major boost to the Cowboys’ pack.
Form Guide Favors Titans
Despite their injury concerns, the Titans will go into the game as slight favorites. They have won two of their last three games and have a better recent record against the Cowboys.
What the Experts Say
- “The Titans have been hit hard by injuries, but they have a lot of depth in their squad,” said former Queensland coach Mal Meninga.
- “The Cowboys have been struggling for form lately, but they have the quality to win this game,” said Fox Sports commentator Warren Smith.
Prediction
The Titans are likely to field a weakened team due to injuries, but they should still have enough quality to overcome a Cowboys side that is lacking confidence. Titans by 4 points.
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