Garth Brennan says Konrad Hurrell must prove he wants to remain with the Gold Coast Titans
KONRAD Hurrell is ready to prove to Garth Brennan that he deserves to stay at the Titans after the coach turned up the heat on the Tongan international.
Titans
Don't miss out on the headlines from Titans. Followed categories will be added to My News.
KONRAD Hurrell is ready to prove to Garth Brennan that he deserves to stay at the Titans after the coach turned up the heat on the Tongan international.
The Gold Coast cult hero has endured a rollercoaster season after he was dropped to reserve grade in May following an error-riddled start to the year.
He has since managed to make his way back into the first grade side, promoted after the loss of Daley Copley to a season-ending hamstring injury.
But Brennan put his star centre on notice last month, declaring he has to perform or risk a return to the Intrust Super Cup.
With Hurrell off-contract at the end of next year, he has to play his way back to top form to maintain his place in Brennan’s 17.
And the 27-year-old is ready for the challenge, saying he does not want to leave the Gold Coast given the loyalty they have shown him since he left the Warriors in 2016.
“I want to stay here at the club,” Hurrell said.
ANALYSIS: Brisbane can’t win the comp
RETURN: Barba poised for NRL comeback
“They’re a great club, and they’ve done everything for me. It’s up to me now, working hard.
“For the last month I’ve been trying to push for my opportunity and it’s sad to see Dale out for the year, but that’s another opportunity for myself to work hard and hold onto (my position).
“I am happy with (my form) but there’s still a lot to improve on. I still need to bring the energy and my A-game.”
The Titans have had a poor month, winning just one of their past five games.
They will look to turn around that form today when they host the Panthers at home, with the club at risk of falling into the dangerous wooden spoon territory.
Hurrell said they know they have to fight for their season.
“It’s been a very disappointing year, but all we have to do now is finish strong and give the club and the fans something … do it for ourselves as well,” he said.
“We need to finish strong and try to stay away from the wooden spoon.”
The Titans will have one change for today’s clash after centre Brenko Lee was ruled out with a hamstring issue, with Brendan Elliot to take his place.
James Tamou has been ruled out for the Panthers and will be replaced by Jack Hetherington.
Originally published as Garth Brennan says Konrad Hurrell must prove he wants to remain with the Gold Coast Titans