Titans Farewell Coach Hasler with Stunning Second-Half Comeback Against Tigers

Dramatic Finale to Regular Season

Kieran Foran and Des Hasler concluded their Titans careers on a winning note as the Gold Coast secured a 36-28 victory in a match that showcased the unpredictable nature of rugby league.

First Half Dominance

The Tigers dominated the early proceedings, posting their highest first-half total of 2025 with 28 points. The visitors looked in complete control as they built what seemed to be an unassailable lead.

Remarkable Comeback

The Titans mounted an extraordinary second-half revival, scoring four tries after the break. AJ Brimson was instrumental in the comeback, scoring a double, while the team showed great resilience to overturn the deficit. A brilliant sequence saw Brian Kelly and Beau Fermor combine to help the Titans take the lead at 30-28.

Historical Context

The victory was particularly meaningful for the Titans, who have endured a challenging 2025 season with just five wins prior to this match, having spent much of the year at the bottom of the ladder. In contrast, the Tigers have shown signs of improvement this year, benefiting from new recruits including Jarome Luai, Terrell May, and Sunia Turuva.

Farewell to Des Hasler

The match marked Des Hasler’s final game as Titans coach, making the victory even more special. The occasion was also notable for the NRL debuts of former Wallaby Carter Gordon and teenager Cooper Bai, with Gordon starting in the centres as part of a reshuffled backline that included Keano Kini at fullback.

Looking Ahead

The win has significant implications for the Titans’ season finish, giving them a chance to avoid the wooden spoon. They now sit level with the Knights on 18 competition points, with Newcastle’s final match against the Eels still to come.