The NRL match in the Gold Coast that turned ugly. Both teams were battling hard to avoid the wooden spoon. The Rugby League World Cup qualifier, played at Langlands Park, had the Titans ahead 20-16 with a touch over 14 minutes to go. A string of key moments turned the tide and eventually brought it down to the wire in a dramatic finish.
Right from the start, Titans forward Tino Fa’asuamaleaui was the story in the early stages after going down with a neck injury in an awkward-looking tackle. His left knee was deeply strapped, leading to further questions about his fitness and overall effectiveness on the field. His injury would prove to be a huge blow to the Titans’ hopes for the remainder of the NRL season. This undoubtedly impacts their overall place in the standings as well.
Though no one expected the escalation that would occur as the match unfolded, tempers flared. Api Koroisau put away a penalty goal, bringing the scores to 14-14 with just under 23 minutes remaining on the clock. The Tigers saw that momentum and raised it, Koroisau’s kick not only boosting the Tigers’ defense but pumping up their attacking players as well. Their euphoria turned into dismay almost immediately as Brian Kelly moved to launch the Titans into orbit. Sadly, though, Beau Fermor was knocked into touch immediately after having received the pass.
Controversial Calls and Critical Moments
The game’s level of drama increased exponentially as key moments of controversy came into focus. A large critical double knock-on were provided expected by referee Belinda Sharpe after a short ending involving Jaylan De Groot. This decision opened up a greater discussion among fans and commentators regarding the refereeing merits and interpretations of play leading up to such incidents. The eighth Immortal had specific, powerful things to say about protecting players—notably kickers. He’s worried that the stopgap measures have “gone way too far.” That critique further illuminated what has long been a contentious reality within the league—player safety isn’t actually a concern if it undermines NFL gameplay.
In response, the Titans struck back almost immediately following a determined Tigers stop, hoping to reclaim all the momentum. Even then, they were punched in the gut again a minute later, when Jeral Skelton dived on a Fa’asuamaleaui fumble for a try. That unfortunate event recharged the Tigers’ batteries. It set them up beautifully to take advantage of turnovers.
The climax of the contest was upon us as Adam Doueihi prepared to line up a kick from the far touchline. With only two minutes remaining on the clock, he made the kick and gave the Tigers a three-point lead at 20-17. This put even further pressure on the Titans to acquiesce. Our fans were grinding their nails down to the nubs as both teams battled at full strength with a scoreboard clearly indicating the struggle. Every point was crucial in their last-ditch bid to escape the wooden spoon.
