David Fifita Sidelined as Ongoing Ankle Injury Forces Titans Star to Rest
Gold Coast Titans forward David Fifita will be unavailable this weekend due to a lingering ankle injury that has caused him to play through discomfort for nine rounds. AAP reports that the 25-year-old has been receiving pain-relief injections to manage the issue, which stems from complications following pre-season surgery.
Most recently, Fifita required another injection to feature in Ipswich Jets’ heavy 32-0 defeat to Northern Pride on Sunday after being dropped from the Titans’ NRL squad by coach Des Hasler. Now, the injury has sidelined him for both the Titans’ upcoming clash with Newcastle on Friday and the Jets’ fixture against Townsville Blackhawks on Sunday.
While some critics have questioned Fifita’s effort levels, the fact that he has continued playing despite the injury suggests a significant degree of resilience. The Titans confirmed on Tuesday that the star second-rower will consult a specialist for further assessment.
Team captain Tino Fa’asuamaleaui, who will celebrate his 100th NRL appearance this week, praised Fifita’s attitude and said he remained committed despite recent scrutiny and his omission from the top squad.
“Dave handled everything well last week. Despite the media chatter, he showed up with the right mindset and helped prepare us for the game,” Fa’asuamaleaui said.
Coach Hasler noted after the loss to Canterbury that Fifita needed to reassess certain aspects of his game. Fa’asuamaleaui backed Hasler’s call and dismissed any notion of a falling-out between the two.
“They definitely get along. Des has supported him since day one,” he said. “There are areas Dave needs to work on, both on and off the field, but the coach is doing what’s best for the club. I support that.”
The Titans have now lost five straight games, and while Fifita was benched after a 50-18 drubbing by the Cowboys, Fa’asuamaleaui stressed that other players also need to reflect on their performances.
“Everyone needs to ask themselves if they’re truly doing their job for the team,” he said. “Being dropped is what happens when you’re not.”
In more positive news for the Titans, playmaker Jayden Campbell returns from an ankle injury and will start against Newcastle, with Tom Weaver ruled out under concussion protocols.
