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Titans confirm Taylor signing

3 minute read

The Gold Coast will have a near representative pack in 2013 after confirming the signing Queensland Origin forward Dave Taylor on Monday.

Gold Coast coach John Cartwright believes the acquisition of Dave Taylor will allow them to field a potential NRL premiership-winning pack in 2013.

Cartwright says the club has secured the 23-year-old South Sydney backrower and former Brisbane forward just as he's entering his prime.

The Titans officially announced they had secured the services of the Queensland forward on a two-year deal with an option for a further two seasons.

"It's fantastic to get a Queenslander back home and a State of Origin player," said Cartwright on Monday.

"He's going to make our club a better club. He can do it all, he's got the hands of a six or a seven, he's got the speed of a centre and he's 120kg so it's a very rare mix."

Cartwright said linking Taylor alongside Jamal Idris will alleviate the pressure on his side's playmakers.

"You don't need to create a hell of a lot when you've got players like Taylor and Idris around the football," Cartwright said.

"He's a very young man and he's going to be a great acquisition for the club."

While the Titans' property arm is currently involved in some financial battles, it hasn't stopped the club recruiting several big-name players since their wooden spoon performance in 2011.

During an active off-season the Titans made some big-money signings in Idris, Nate Myles, Beau Champion and Luke Douglas to boost their depth.

An emotional Taylor told his teammates of his decision on the bus trip back from Penrith on Sunday night after starring with two tries in their 40-24 win over Penrith.

His teammates were still coming to terms with the news at the club's recovery session on Monday morning.

"Dave addressed the players and everyone accepted it," said English international forward Sam Burgess.

"It'll be tough to see Dave go. I'm really good friends with him, but he's made a decision for himself and his family and I'm really happy for him and wish him well."