The Gold Coast Titans secured a convincing 38-18 victory over the St George Illawarra Dragons on July 26, 2026, marking a significant milestone in the team’s season. The win at Jubilee Stadium allowed the Titans to climb out of the bottom four on the NRL ladder for the first time since the round-eight bye.
Five-eighth Jayden Campbell was the central figure in the win, orchestrating the Titans’ left-edge attack with three try assists in the first half before scoring an individual try midway through the second. His performance highlighted the effectiveness of his transition to the No. 6 position, a tactical shift that has begun to yield consistent results for coach Josh Hannay.
The match was particularly challenging due to the atmosphere at Kogarah, where the Dragons were celebrating co-captain Clint Gutherson’s 250th NRL game and the permanent appointment of coach Dean Young. Despite an early try from the Dragons’ Tyrell Sloan, the Titans responded with a series of high-tempo plays, including two tries from Jaylen De Groot, to establish control.
Captain Tino Fa’asuamaleaui praised the growing partnership between Campbell and rookie halves partner Zane Harrison. According to Fa’asuamaleaui, Harrison’s disciplined kicking game has provided the necessary structure to allow Campbell to express his natural playmaking talents. This victory marks consecutive wins for the Titans, signaling a potential upward trajectory for the squad as they navigate the final stages of the season.
Follow-up Questions
What is confirmed in this story?
Campbell shines as Titans dismantle Dragons in 38-18 victory Jayden Campbell led the Gold Coast Titans to a 38-18 win over the St George Illawarra Dragons, moving the team out of the NRL ladder's bottom four.
What should readers watch next?
Five-eighth Jayden Campbell was the central figure in the win, orchestrating the Titans' left-edge attack with three try assists in the first half before scoring an individual try midway through the second.
What remains unclear: The available reporting does not yet fully settle the next step in the story.
Perspectives
Coach Josh Hannay's View vs Captain Tino Fa'asuamaleaui's View
Story lens
Coach Josh Hannay's View
Hannay attributes the success to the team's 'ongoing evolution' and patience. He notes that while the team has faced 'hard lessons' and 'tight losses' throughout the season, the players are now growing exponentially and learning to avoid the second-half lapses that previously hindered them
Captain Tino Fa'asuamaleaui's View
Fa'asuamaleaui highlights the 'refreshing' impact of the young spine—including Campbell, Harrison, and hooker Oliver Pascoe—on the team. He views their ability to take opportunities as the key factor in the team's improved weekly performance
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