Gold Coast star Tino Fa'asuamaleaui admits his own start to the year has not been up to scratch, suggesting it could be the worst three-game run of his career.
Fa'asuamaleaui's form has come under scrutiny in the first three rounds of the season, with the Titans winless and sitting last on the ladder.
The captain conceded on Wednesday his aggression had been down, averaging 93 metres per game and missing a combined seven tackles.
"That (aggression) is what I'm known for. That's what I pride myself on," Fa'asuamaleaui said.
"And to not be doing that during a game has been real frustrating for myself. It's been real upsetting too after games. It's only early in the year, but definitely not happy with my game.
"I probably haven't strung three disappointing games in my career (before)."
Fa'asuamaleaui's decision to recommit to Gold Coast has so far been the biggest bright spark for the Titans in 2026, honouring his deal through until 2033.
The 26-year-old is also adamant there has been a turnaround at the club under new coach Josh Hannay, even if results have not shown it.
The Kangaroos prop said it was therefore on him to lift the physicality against St George Illawarra on Sunday, with the Dragons boasting a big pack.
Discipline will also be key.
Fa'asuamaleaui pointed to the fact the Titans had just 39 per cent of the ball against North Queensland last Sunday, one of the Titans' biggest issues.
In turn, no Gold Coast forward ran more than 85m, with the Titans spending much of the game coming out of their own end.
"When you put yourself under pressure, it takes a lot of gas out of it. Seventeen extra sets in defence on the weekend, it definitely doesn't help that.
"It makes it harder, but I've got to keep fighting that every week and keep getting better as an individual.
"I probably just haven't hit the marker with my role, which has been real frustrating and upsetting."
