Gold Coast's worst fears have been realised, with injured forward Ben Ridge ruled out for at least three months.
A specialist confirmed on Monday that the Titans backrower had suffered a torn pectoral muscle early in Saturday night's 22-12 NRL trial win over the Warriors at Toowoomba.
Ridge may be sidelined for up to four months but the Gold Coast were hopeful the 25-year-old would return after round eight this season.
"It's pretty hard to swallow," Ridge said.
"But there's nothing I can do about it but work hard on my rehab and get back as soon as I can.
"I'd never felt keener going into a season, having so much enthusiasm around the place with new teammates who I was looking forward to playing with, as well as good mates who have been at the Titans for a while.
"It was pretty tough happening so early in the match, especially with my parents, other family and friends at the match.
"I just hyper-extended my arm making a tackle and it went."
The Titans complete their pre-season schedule with a trial against North Queensland in Cairns on February 21.
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