Titans coach Des Hasler in explosive press conference exchange with reporter: ‘You’re not answering the question’

Gold Coast coach Des Hasler was involved in a tense press conference exchange with a reporter following the Titans’ 32-18 loss to the New Zealand Warriors on Saturday night.

Last year the Titans thrashed the Warriors 66-6 at the same Robina venue but there was to be no repeat on Saturday as the Hasler-coached outfit remain last and on track for the wooden spoon.

The Warriors moved to 34 points and will finish round 25 in fourth, two clear of Cronulla, who had the bye. Brisbane will join the Sharks on 32 points if they beat Newcastle away on Sunday.

During a feisty post-match press conference, Hasler dodged questions on the future of second-rower David Fifita.

It’s been reported that Fifita has been given permission to negotiate with other clubs, despite being on contract for another season.

Reporter: ‘Des, can you explain to us the situation with David Fifita and his future?’

Hasler: ‘Well, David at the moment is making his way back, as you know, from ankle surgery. So he will come back from that and he will go into rehab. He’s signed for next year. So he’s signed for ’26.’

Reporter: ‘Have you given him permission to seek interest from other clubs?’

Hasler: ‘He’s signed for ’26.’

Reporter: ‘Have you given him permission to seek interest from other clubs?’

Hasler: ‘He’s signed for ’26.’

Reporter: ‘You’re not answering the question, Des.’

Hasler: ‘I’m not going to answer it.’

Reporter: ‘It’s an important issue at the club.’

Hasler: ‘No, it’s not.’

Reporter: ‘You can’t keep avoiding everything.’

Hasler: ‘I’m not going to answer it. We don’t discuss retention on this platform.’

Reporter: ‘Yeah, but that’s just a cop out.’

Hasler: ‘No, it’s not.’

The reporter then brought up all the Warriors fans who had attended the match on the Gold Coast.

‘Mate, have a look at the crowd out there tonight. They’re all Warriors fans. It’s embarrassing,’ he said.