They have tried snake handling, crocodile cruises and fishing but it seems the Gold Coast Titans still can’t get their last round NRL thumping by Newcastle out of their heads.
However, Titans co-captain Greg Bird says their trip to the Top End ahead of Saturday night’s Darwin clash with Penrith has stirred fond memories of home.
The Gold Coast headed up north to bond over activities only Darwin could offer in a bid to clear their mind following last round’s 46-16 touch-up by the Knights.
They needed all the cheering up they could get – their worst loss of the year also cost them strike weapons Jamal Idris (broken leg) for the season and William Zillman (groin) for a week.
The stumble could not have been timed worse – the Titans (5th; 8-7 record) not only missed a chance to move into the top four with the heavy defeat but could drop to the bottom of the eight with another loss this weekend.
Titans coach John Cartwright reportedly did not dwell on their loss when reviewing the 30-point thumping and hoped the injection of debutants – Under-20s stars Jahrome Hughes and Hymel Hunt – into their backline will add enthusiasm.
But Bird admitted his thoughts still drifted to that shocking defeat.
“It was a tough loss,” he said.
“But I guess there is no better opportunity than now to blow the cobwebs off and get rid of that one.
“We will try not to think about it but it is always there until you have another run.
“We have a perfect opportunity tomorrow to go out and make amends.”
Bird said the heat could be a factor for Penrith (9th; 6-8) on Saturday night, claiming the Top End conditions suited the Titans best.
“We came up early to soak up the sights and to get the body accustomed to the temperature up here – we are ready to go,” he said.
“It’s similar to conditions on the Gold Coast early in the year and we played in Cairns a few weeks ago where it was quite warm.
“The big Penrith boys will have their work cut out for them.”
The Panthers have won five of their past eight games but only one of six away this season.
