NRL Round 1 - Titans v Raiders @ CBUS Super Stadium
Gold Coast Titans v Canberra Raiders @ CBUS Super Stadium
Preview - The Titans host the Raiders at CBUS Syper Syadum in Round 1 with both clubs looking to hit backs from hugely underwhelming 2017 campaigns. The Titans finished 2017 in 15th place resulting in the sacking of coach Neil Henry with still a few round sot play as th side looked nothing like the team that stunned everyone by finishing in 8th spot in 2016. The Canberra Raiders were one of the big flops in 2017 winning just 10 games and finishing in 10th spot after finishing 2nd and making the preliminary Final in 2016.
History - The Raiders belted the Titans on the Gold Coast last season winning 42-16. It took five visits to The Gold Coast before the Raiders registered their first win at the venue in Round 2, 2012 and they have since gone on to win three of their past five meetings with the Titans away from home. Overall the Titans hold an 11-8 win advantage.
Gold Coast Titans Scouting Report - Michael Gordon starts at fullback in his debut for the Titans whilst Anthony Don has been named despite carrying a shoulder injury . Jai Arrow has earned the right to start in the front row with Ryan James on an edge.The Titans will be hoping for a big seasons from Ash Taylor the young halfback who re-signed with the cub for 4 years in the off season despite interest from th Broncos.
Canberra Raiders Scouting Report - Ricky Stuart has spring a Round 1 surpie with Sam Williams ousting Blake Austin in thhalves. Williams had been an NRl journeyman retuning for his 3rd stint at the Raiders and will start at halfback alongside AIden Seizure at five eight. Austin hasten relagetd to the bench after an indifferent 2017 where his form fluctuated. Siliva Havili will start at hooker with Josh Hodgson a long term injury.
Verdict - Raiders 1-6 in a high scoring game
Very hard to get a gang eon this game with both sides being so far below expectations last season. I think the Raiders have more strike power in the outside backs so if they can control the ball and play amore disiclipine game then they did at times last season i think they should be too strong for the Titans, However I'm pretty wary of the Titans here given they are under a new Head Coach and playing r home in Round. I think both sides score in the 20s here but the Raiders edge the game by a try.