LAST-minute inclusion Kane Elgey continued his impressive development as an NRL player, steering the Gold Coast to a 28-12 win over Canberra.

The Titans' hopes took a big hit early when enforcer Greg Bird hobbled from the field with a groin injury after the first tackle of the match.

"When Birdy got injured, I had to step up," said Elgey, who went on to be named man-of-the-match.

His brilliant tap-on ball to speedster Nene McDonald for a try in the 71st minute, which he also converted, secured the club's eighth victory of the season after it had led 14-12 at halftime.

With nothing more at stake than pride, the Titans showed a lot more spirit than the clumsy Raiders who looked flat and anything but the entertainers they had been prior to last weekend's demoralising 26-24 season-ending loss to Manly.

Elgey, only cleared to play hours before the game, was outstanding with a try, three try-assists, four goals and 12 points. Unfortunately, he was also placed on report for tripping.

McDonald, who has played four Tests for PNG, finished his 20th NRL game with an eye-catching 233m and a game-high three tackle breaks.