Gold Coast wrecking ball David Fifita has been backed to make another emphatic case for a Queensland recall against Cronulla in Coffs Harbour.
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Fifita is in the frame to return to the Maroons side for the State of Origin series decider in Brisbane after their dismal 38-18 loss to NSW in Melbourne where the forwards lacked impact and intent.
Queensland coach Billy Slater left Fifita out of game one, saying the 24-year-old had not attained the standard of play that had led to him starting in all three Origin matches in 2023.
Fifita has an ankle injury and missed selection for game two, but on his club return had 10 tackle busts and ran rampant for 195m in a 66-6 demolition of the Warriors.
Titans forward Keenan Palasia said Fifita had been diligent in the areas he imagined Slater was referring to, while still providing X-factor.
"That is never something we didn't know about Davey. He has always been able to break tackles and break a game open," Palasia said.
"What Dave has been working on the most is his consistency and his work ethic. He is putting in the one-percenters that he might not have been previously. It is doing wonders for us like it did against the Warriors.
"Add his effort areas and he has become a complete player. He is leading by example and on the training paddock as well."
The clash at the home of the 'Big Banana' on Friday night also looms as the return of star back and Maroons contender AJ Brimson, who is set to play his first game in seven rounds after recovering from a groin injury.
Slater could use Brimson as an outside back on the bench as he did successfully with Brisbane's Selwyn Cobbo in the 38-10 game-one win. Brimson has played two of his four Origin games in a similar role and covers fullback, centre and the halves. Palasia said Brimson was capable of forcing his way into the side with one blistering display against the Sharks.
"Brimmo was flying today (at training) and burning everyone so hopefully he does that in the game," Palasia said.
Brimson is expected to be named in Gold Coast's No.6 jersey in place of the injured Jayden Campbell (hand fracture).
The Titans had a record win over the Warriors in their last outing before their round 17 bye and Palasia said it was vital to back that up and keep coach Des Hasler happy.
"It has never been new for the Titans to put on points," he said.
"It has just been about our defence this year. To put it together for a full game and put a smile on Des's face for the first time was pretty good so hopefully we can do that for the next 10 games."
Australian Associated Press
