Titans pull out of Boyd race

Australian test player Darius Boyd looks likely to switch to Newcastle after Gold Coast Titans pulled out of the running for the St George full-back.

Boyd, 23, was man of the match as the Dragons won the NRL Grand Final last season, and was also part of the team that defeated Wigan in the World Club Challenge back in February, but looks likely to follow coach Wayne Bennett out of the exit door.

Bennett announced he would be leaving the Dragons at the end of 2011 and has since signed a four-year deal with Newcastle, who have now emerged as favourites for Boyd’s signature, with a Queensland return looking unlikely following the withdrawal of interest from Gold Coast.

Titans Managing Director Michael Searle said: “We will now divert our efforts on other players within our sights.

“We wish Darius all the best with his future playing career and thank him for his engagement and interest but regrettably we can no longer continue to delay other negotiations of similar importance to our club.”

Boyd started his career at Brisbane, making his NRL debut in 2006, before signing for St George on a three-year deal for the 2009 season, following Broncos coach Bennett to the Dragons.