Cartwright reveals Titans strategy

Gold Coast coach John Cartwright is likely to select two hookers in his squad to face North Queensland in the NRL‘s opening round.

Incumbent Matt Srama has missed all three trial matches due to a shoulder injury while Kayne Lawton, a former Toyota Cup dummy-half, lacks experience.

“We’ll more than likely go in with a hooker on the bench,’’ said Cartwright.

“Matty hasn’t had any game-time and Kayne is new to the role – he’s only had a couple of games there at NRL level.

“It’s probably the most challenging position on the field physically to play. They are both young boys and probably not quite ready for 80 minutes of NRL in that position but between the two of them we’ve got two really sharp hookers there.’’

Lawton, who is equally at home at halfback, starred at hooker in trials against Brisbane and North Queensland.

“He was tremendous, he played big mins the last two games with between 60-70 minutes at hooker and he’s handled it really well,’’ added Cartwright.

“He hasn’t looked fatigued.

“But the speed of the games now that the competition starts will pick up a notch.’’

Lawton has made just three appearances for the Titans since making his debut in 2009 due to a a series of injuries.