NRL 2012- 14th Position!

With so much money spent on the Centre of Excellence, it looks like the Gold Coast Titans are looking towards the future. However, they have forgotten that now is what matters, and as 2011 showed, The Gold Coast Titans have fallen behind the pack. Two successive top 4 seasons hid the fact that the Titans did indeed have an ageing team, a fact which was brought to every bodies awareness following a 16th spot position

The Titans have brought in some fresh faces. Players of quality who will add strength in all area's of the squad. However, I do believe that with such a diverse change in the playing roster, as proven by Canterbury last season, it take's time to gel. Gold Coast will struggle this year, but the players will develop into a team for future years

The Key Signing- If the Titans can control his off-field behaviour, Nate Myles can become a true leader. At the age of 25, and with representative honours to his name already, Nate is an established first grade forward. The ability to pound the line, over, and over and over is a trait he is known for. A solid defensive game is often ruined with penalties and it is something he will have to eradicate from his performances

The Key Loss- Where do you start? The Titans have started fresh and cleared their playing stocks. Anthony Laffranchi will be missed the most. His second phase play is one of the best in the game, whilst his performance over 80 minutes is one to admire. The retirement of iconic talisman Preston Campbell will require filling as well

Strengths- Impact Players. Gold Coast are now filled with a squad of talent who are good at certain aspects of the game. Whether it be bending the line, in the air or big hits, the players all have their individual traits. It will be up to the team to combine all these traits to best use, making the most of the aerial prowess of Jamal Idris, running game of Scott Prince and the pace of the young outside backs

Weakness- An over reliance on half-back Scott Prince will be a concern this season. He should earn representative honours this season, leaving big shoes to fill. Can Henry, Rankin or Srama fill these shoes? Big money signing Jamal Idris is known to fade out of games. The Titans will need to use his size and ability when required, rather than over burdening him early in the game

The X-Factor- Matt Srama exploded onto the scene for the Titans last season, taking his opportunity in the number 9 jersey and making it his own. A high work rate and a darting running game has made Srama a crowd favourite. Can he continue his good form and avoid the dreaded second year syndrome?

One To Watch- Told he was not needed at St George by Wayne Bennett, Beau Henry heard the same message yet again when he was at Newcastle. A young half with lots of potential, an injury early into the Knights campaign in 2011 brought his season to an end. The Titans pounced and I do expect Beau to play in the halves alongside Scott Prince this year. Hopefully the Titans can stick with him and give him the opportunity as their is no doubt that the kid has talent