Maroons Eyes on Titans’ Fifita in Big Banana Showdown With the State of Origin series hanging in the balance, the Queensland Maroons have set their sights on Gold Coast Titans star David Fifita ahead of the crucial Game 3 at Suncorp Stadium. Known for his explosive runs and brute strength, Fifita has been a standout performer for the Titans this season, earning him a recall to the New South Wales Blues squad. However, the Maroons believe they have a tactical advantage over their rivals when it comes to neutralizing his impact. “We’ve watched a lot of tape of Fifita and we know what he’s capable of,” said Maroons coach Billy Slater. “But we also know that he can be susceptible to fatigue if you can put consistent pressure on him.” The Maroons plan to employ a barrage of smaller, quicker forwards to tire out Fifita and limit his effectiveness. This strategy has been successful in the past, with the Blues using a similar approach to contain the rampaging prop in Game 1 of this year’s series. “We’re going to make sure we have a lot of bodies around Fifita,” said Maroons prop Jarrod Wallace. “We need to make him work for every meter he gets.” The clash between Fifita and the Maroons forwards is expected to be a key battleground in the Big Banana showdown. If the Maroons can neutralize Fifita’s influence, they will take a significant step towards securing their fourth consecutive Origin series victory. “We’re all excited for this game,” said Maroons captain Daly Cherry-Evans. “We know it’s going to be a tough one, but we’re confident that we can get the job done.” The State of Origin decider will be held at Suncorp Stadium on July 13, with the Maroons looking to retain the shield they have held since 2019.Gold Coast Titans forward David Fifita is pushing for a Queensland recall with an impressive performance in his club’s win over the Warriors.Gold Coast Titans forward David Fifita is pushing for a Queensland recall with an impressive performance in his club’s win over the Warriors. Fifita, who missed the first two State of Origin matches due to injury and lack of form, had 10 tackle busts and ran for 195m in the Titans’ 66-6 demolition of the Warriors. Titans forward Keenan Palasia praised Fifita’s consistency and work ethic, saying he had “become a complete player.” The clash against the Sharks on Friday night could also see the return of AJ Brimson, who is set to play his first game in seven rounds after recovering from a groin injury. Brimson could be used as an outside back on the bench, similar to the role played by Selwyn Cobbo in Queensland’s game-one win. Palasia said Brimson was capable of forcing his way into the side with one blistering display, adding that “Brimmo was flying today (at training) and burning everyone.” The Titans will be looking to back up their record-breaking win over the Warriors and keep coach Des Hasler happy as they aim to maintain their momentum in the second half of the season.Maroons eyes on Titans’ Fifita in Big Banana showdown Gold Coast, Australia – Queensland coach Billy Slater is keeping a close eye on David Fifita’s performance for the Titans in their NRL clash against the Broncos at Suncorp Stadium on Saturday night. Fifita, who played for the Maroons in last year’s State of Origin series, has been in impressive form for the Titans this season, scoring four tries in six games. Slater said he was keen to see how Fifita performed against the Broncos, who have one of the best defensive records in the NRL. “Davey is a special player and he’s starting to find his feet at the Titans,” Slater said. “He’s a big, strong ball-runner who can also offload and create opportunities for others. “I’m looking forward to seeing how he goes against the Broncos. They’ve got a very good defensive line, so it will be a good test for him.” Fifita said he was excited about the opportunity to play against the Broncos and was hoping to put in a good performance for the Titans. “The Broncos are a great team and they’ve got some really good players,” Fifita said. “I’m looking forward to the challenge and I’m hoping to put in a good performance for the Titans.” The Titans will be looking to bounce back from their loss to the Storm last weekend, while the Broncos will be aiming to continue their winning streak. The match is shaping up to be a close and entertaining contest, with both teams desperate for the two competition points.