Parker calls for Fifita to start after bizarre Hasler tactic backfires

SEN’s Corey Parker believes Gold Coast Titans coach Des Hasler needs to be held more accountable for his decision to leave barnstorming forward David Fifita on the bench for the majority of the Round 2 clash against the Bulldogs.

Fifita played just 31 minutes in Gold Coast’s first match of the season as the Titans went down 40-24 at Belmore. The Bulldogs ran in four tries in the opening 19 minutes to essentially ice the game early.

Fifita replaced Jaimin Jolliffe in the 49th minute when the Bulldogs were leading 34-12 and Parker couldn’t understand why Hasler allowed his million dollar player to sit on the sidelines.

“If you’re Des Hasler and you’re at the selection table (and allow) David Fifita to sit on the bench for 50 minutes. Why?” asked Parker on SENQ Breakfast.

“He’s a million dollar player and devastating back rower. He is someone that you want to put in.

“He’s played for Australia and Queensland. He’s definitely not finished because he’s only 25 years of age.

“His best football is still ahead of him. It’s hard to run a team when he’s on the pine. Get him in the starting line.

“Do you find a spot for David Fifita? It’s one that you definitely have a look at.”

Hasler was asked in the Titans’ post-match press conference following the loss to the Bulldogs and cited Fifita’s ankle injury and an interrupted preseason as the reason for the 25-year-old’s limited game time.

SEN’s Greg Alexander also questioned the decision to not get David Fifita on the field earlier, particularly after an injury to the Bulldogs which forced a host of positional changes.

“When you had Matt Burton off the field and Stephen Crichton was switched to the left side, all of a sudden you have a weakness,” Alexander said on SEN 1170 Breakfast.

“Get your million dollar man on. Get him on down the left side. Get him on Des!

“He didn’t come on. He didn’t even come on at halftime.

“He knows his players better than me (but) the Dogs then score in the 41st and 46th minute. The game was over and then he gets him on.

“The Titans made him backflip from the Roosters and they had to pay him. Why wouldn’t you then use him?”

The Titans host Newcaslte on Saturday night at Cbus Super Stadium.