It’s business as usual at the Titans ahead of their NRL season finale with the Bulldogs on the Gold Coast on Sunday – much to retiring forward Luke Bailey’s frustration.
The ex-Test frontrower will never be the guy who says a game is about him but the 15-year veteran admits he has been tempted to fire up the troops ahead of a home clash that will not only farewell him but also fellow foundation player Mark Minichiello.
Asked if he had picked up on a vibe as the Gold Coast looked set to say goodbye to the stalwart, a candid Bailey said: “Not really.
“I am trying to push the vibe but I don’t know if anyone is receiving it.
“It’s a big deal for me and Mini (England-bound) Minichiello.
“I think I will have a chat with the boys.
“I am not trying to be selfish but I will say ‘don’t win it for me but let’s finish on a good note’.”
The enormity of the situation may not be obvious at Titans training in 34-year-old Bailey’s eyes, but Sunday’s season finale will draw the curtain on a special era at the club.
Both Bailey and Minichiello were integral to not only the Gold Coast forming a competitive side on 2007 NRL debut, but also the Titans bucking the odds by claiming top-four finishes from 2009-10.
Bailey said he had made a “mate for life” with 32-year-old Minichiello, who will take up a two-year deal with England’s Hull FC in 2015.
But brutally honest ex-Dragon Bailey was hard pressed when asked what else he had achieved during his time at the Titans.
“Not performing when we were entitled to and almost making the grand final (in 2010),” Bailey said when asked of his Titans highlights.
“But nothing really stands out, just the camaraderie with the boys – obviously the last couple of years have been a bit flat.
“It’s not a positive way to go but to leave with my health and fitness and beautiful family, I am just excited about that.”
He said it would be good to give the Bulldogs a run for their money on Sunday.
“You want to do a lap around the ground after a tough game, not after you got flogged.”
Bailey had no immediate plans other than sobering up after Mad Monday.
“I will probably mow the grass about three, four times to unleash my frustration or go for a run – I don’t know,” he said.
“On Tuesday I will be sobering up, but I have a bit of time on my hands so I will reflect on my 15 years and start thinking about what is going to happen next.”
