EXCLUSIVE: Phil Gould Left Baffled by Gold Coast Titans’ Struggles Following Disastrous Trial Defeat

Phil Gould believes the Titans possess a squad well-equipped to vie for a finals berth, which leaves the rugby league expert “perplexed” by their persistent problems.

Gold Coast ended up among the bottom four in their debut season with coach Des Hasler, but many anticipate a resurgence in 2025.

Yet, their pre-season kicked off on a dismal note, suffering a 50-point defeat against an under-strength Broncos side, despite showcasing several star players.

“Blimey, there will be some sore heads up there,” Gould remarked on Wide World of Sports’ Six Tackles With Gus this week.

“It was disappointing, but trials are just that – trials. They can turn things around swiftly, and in just seven days, they could be past this setback.

“That being said, their performance over the weekend was concerning – not a good indication at all. Still, it’s only a trial, and I’m confident they’ll bounce back this week.”

Defence has historically been a challenge for the Titans, who boast some of the most gifted attacking talents in the NRL, yet struggle with consistency from week to week.

Gould highlighted not only their attitude problems but also shortcomings within their roster.

Hasler has a wealth of options for the spine, but it seems Gold Coast has yet to determine who will secure the vital jerseys come the regular season.

“They have a genuinely talented squad,” he stated.

“I often find myself scratching my head over the Titans and wondering why they aren’t performing better. Last season, they placed 14th, conceding a staggering 656 points.

“They are genuinely better than that, and they must enhance that aspect of their game and their mindset. One would expect a Des Hasler-coached team to achieve that.

“They also need to finalise their playmaker situation. They are keeping Kieran Foran for his experience, but they have [AJ] Brimson, [Keano] Kini and [Jayden] Campbell, all eager for their chance.”

“I believe it’s a very capable roster, and if they reach their potential, they should make the top eight. However, I’ve been expressing this for a few years now, and it hasn’t materialised.

“Whatever it is that Des needs to rectify, it needs to be addressed swiftly. They have significant improvements to make if they intend to compete with teams above them and make the finals.

“They have the skill; they just need the right system in place.”

Tino Fa’asuamaleaui is slated to make his return from a lengthy injury absence this weekend, while new acquisition Reagan Campbell-Gillard will be held back for Gold Coast’s regular season campaign.

Hasler’s side will have the opportunity to amend their dismal performance against the Dolphins on Saturday night before enjoying a bye in the opening round of the season.