weekend column – Michmutters

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Wests Tigers center of excellence, Benji Marshall error, Dragons, premiership, photo

Wests Tigers center of excellence, Benji Marshall error, Dragons, premiership, photo

The usual suspects at the Wests Tigers have been busily launching a ticker-tape parade about the club’s new much-vaunted $78 million Center of Excellence in Concord.

Parading around like they’ve won the grand finale – can someone please tell them the Wests Tigers are in 16th position on the NRL ladder and now firm favorites to collect the club’s first-ever wooden spoon.

Stream every game of every round of the 2022 NRL Telstra Premiership Season Live & Ad-Break Free During Play on Kayo. New to Kayo? Start your free trial now >

There’s also been an early loose carry in the new digs hailed as the best rugby league training facility in the world with the organization dropping the ball when it comes to club legend and premiership-winner Benji Marshall’s playing career.

In a spiel about Marshall’s playing feats at the Wests Tigers, the club has somehow managed to stuff up who he won a premiership with.

Lowly Titans embarrass meek Manly | 02:18

For the record, the incoming Wests Tigers head coach in 2025 won a premiership with the Wests Tigers in 2005.

The flick pass to Pat Richards, anyone? It was also the club’s one and only premiership.

Instead, in the initial fit out of the new Center of Excellence – the Wests Tigers Marshall bio states he won a premiership with the Dragons.

Whoops. Benji Marshall did not win a premiership with the Dragons. Photo: NRL Roast TwitterSource: Twitter

MORE NRL NEWS

‘HE’S A DOLPHIN’: Why Bennett may have pulled off $6m Munster coup

MANLY SAGA ROLLS ON: Why Des may have painted a target on his own back

DONE DEAL: Bulldogs sign Ciraldo on long-term deal

‘PENALTY AT THE LEAST’: Raiders win in controversy ‘almost identical’ to Rd 16

confused? Don’t worry, so were we.

The Wests Tigers have since confirmed the error and are in the process of getting it fixed.

Like Jack Gibson always said, winning starts Monday and winning starts in the front office.

Matty nails Buzz impersonation | 00:51

Anyway, they’ve also got a barber shop at the new Center of Excellence so at the very least the Tigers playing squad can sport fresh fades and the organization staff will look sharp.

In all seriousness the Center of Excellence is a great result for the club as a training facility and will no doubt help them on the training and recruitment front.

And once they fix up the Marshall faux pas then hopefully the only way is up.

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NRL 2022: Cameron Ciraldo Bulldogs coach, pundits react, Bulldogs roster, Who is the Bulldogs coach?, Matt Burton contract, player signings

NRL 2022: Cameron Ciraldo Bulldogs coach, pundits react, Bulldogs roster, Who is the Bulldogs coach?, Matt Burton contract, player signings

Rugby league legend Mark Geyer has made a bold prediction following the Bulldogs’ appointment of rookie coach Cameron Ciraldo — while Fox League’s Andrew Voss is concerned the club’s “gamble” could backfire.

Ciraldo inked a five-year contract to join the Belmore club from 2023 onwards in a deal reportedly worth around $800,000-per-season.

Stream every game of every round of the 2022 NRL Telstra Premiership Season Live & Ad-Break Free During Play on Kayo. New to Kayo? Start your free trial now >

The 38-year-old was the hottest property on the coaching market following the axing of multiple coaches including Trent Barrett, but in the end NRL supremo Phil Gould got his man.

Ciraldo has been Ivan Cleary’s assistant for several years and former Panther Mark Geyer believes his appointment means Matt Burton’s tenure with the Bulldogs will almost certainly extend past 2023 after knocking back his player option for 2024.

“He’ll be the youngest coach in the NRL, 38-years of age and signs a five-year deal as I said it’s a major coup, but what it does is makes Matt Burton, now his signature will be a lot longer, he’ll sign on for longer,” Geyer said on Triple M.

“That means that Kikau won’t get cold feet, it means Reed Mahoney won’t get cold feet, the Fox (Josh Addo Carr).

“It’s a massive signing, a lot of people will be saying look he hasn’t done much but, he’s been an assistant coach but what he’s done is he’s very articulate in the way he prepares.”

Geyer also believes the Bulldogs are set for a “special” rebuild, going as far to say they could be premiership contenders within five years.

“It’s all about the team with Cameron Ciraldo it’s never about him so I think this is a major, major boost for the Bulldogs in the next five years,” he said.

“Cameron Ciraldo will, I’m not going to say it but they’re going to do something special in five years but they’re going to be close I would say.

“I reckon they’re going to be close to pulling off the biggest prize of all within five years.”

The Daily Telegraph’s Buzz Rothfield echoed Geyer’s remarks — but explained assistants who have been mentored by elite coaches don’t always become successful bosses themselves.

“At 38 he’ll be the youngest coach in the NRL but a terrific talent, he’s been a great right hand man for Ivan Cleary at the Panthers with all their success in recent years,” Rothfield said on the Big Sports Breakfast.

“He’s their minister for defense there, he’s the one who designed all the strategies to keep their line intact which has been so outstanding in recent times.

“Look the only thing I will say is just because you’re out of a Penrith system or Melbourne system it doesn’t automatically make you a great coach.

“I wrote this morning about Trent Barrett only having a 40 per cent win record despite the rap on ‘Baz’ (Barrett) when he came out of Penrith and Garth Brennan too.

“You look at guys like Adam O’Brien who came out of Melbourne and had a year under Trent Robinson.

“It doesn’t mean you’re going to be an immediate success but I’ve got this feeling that Cameron Ciraldo will prove that theory wrong, he’s got what it takes.

“I think it’s enormous for Canterbury and that he knows the pathways so well at Penrith, he’s been there over a decade on their coaching staff.

“He knows how to bring young players through, I think it’s a huge move for the Bulldogs.

“Put them (Kikau and Mahoney) in with Matty Burton and the rest of the team I think they’re going to be a real top eight chance next year.”

While many are backing Ciraldo to be a success, rugby league commentator Andrew Voss stated he wouldn’t be “signing a rookie coach for five years”.

Five-year coaching contracts have in the past gone pear-shaped — Anthony Seibold’s short-lived Broncos deal being the most recent.

Voss explained there are only a handful of coaches across the league that could warrant the long-term contract signed by Ciraldo.

“Any five-year deal, there’s an element of a gamble in it, even with a player.”

“But five years for an untried coach?” Penrith Panthers legend Greg Alexander asked.

Voss continued: “What if they haven’t played finals in a couple of years? I think five years is too much.

“Five years for a rookie coach? Trying to think of a coach you’d sign for five years, I think you’ve got to have the runs on the board.

“(Craig) Bellamy, (Trent) Robinson, (Ivan) Cleary, I don’t think there’s too many more.

“I’m not signing a rookie coach for five years.

“But, I wish Cameron Ciraldo all the very best.”

Originally published as Why Phil Gould’s $4 million gamble on Cameron Ciraldo could backfire

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Kalyn Ponga video, toilet cubicle footage, Newcastle Knights investigation, security guard escorts Kalyn Ponga and Kurt Mann out of toilet

Kalyn Ponga video, toilet cubicle footage, Newcastle Knights investigation, security guard escorts Kalyn Ponga and Kurt Mann out of toilet

The Knights have launched an investigation after footage emerged of star fullback Kalyn Ponga and utility Kurt Mann being escorted out of a toilet cubicle.

In the vision which has been circulating in the last 24 hours, security from the venue can be seen directing Ponga and Mann away from the toilets

According to The Daily Telegraph, Newcastle learned of the video on Monday morning and have since questioned Put over the footage.

Stream every game of every round of the 2022 NRL Telstra Premiership Season Live & Ad-Break Free During Play on Kayo. New to Kayo? Start your free trial now >

It is currently unclear when the video was captured or why Ponga and Mann were in the cubicle together.

The 24-year-old has been ruled out for the season after failing his third HIA of the season in Round 19.

Ponga revealed to Triple M on Sunday he could have returned for the final round of the season claiming “there’s nothing wrong with me” but the club are taking a cautious approach.

Ponga’s dad Andre has since given an excuse as to why the Maroons gun was in the cubicle with Mann.

“He made an exciting house purchase Saturday and celebrated with a few mates drinking. Sick in the toilet and his mate went in to help him, ”Andre Ponga said to The Daily Telegraph.

MORE NRL NEWS

‘HE’S A DOLPHIN’: Why Bennett may have pulled off $6m Munster coup

MANLY SAGA ROLLS ON: Why Des may have painted a target on his own back

DONE DEAL: Bulldogs sign Ciraldo on long-term deal

‘PENALTY AT THE LEAST’: Raiders win in controversy ‘almost identical’ to Rd 16

Matty nails Buzz impersonation | 00:51

The Knights marquee man signed a mega five-year $5-million contract in April to remain in the Hunter until at least the end of 2027.

Mann has also spent an extended period sidelined with a quad injury.

Adam O’Brien’s side are currently struggling in 14th place on the ladder, suffering a 28-10 loss at the hands of the Broncos in Round 22.

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transfernews; Cameron Munster future; player signings, Wayne Bennett Dolphins; Latrell Mitchell; Roosters salary cap, Angus Crichton re-signs

transfernews; Cameron Munster future; player signings, Wayne Bennett Dolphins; Latrell Mitchell; Roosters salary cap, Angus Crichton re-signs

Cameron Munster may soon be headed north with Wayne Bennett reportedly closing in on his marquee man.

Meanwhile, the Roosters have reportedly locked in a key forward after months of speculation surrounding his future.

Stream every game of every round of the 2022 NRL Telstra Premiership Season Live & Ad-Break Free During Play on Kayo. New to Kayo? Start your free trial now >

DOLPHINS NEW MARQUEE TARGET

Rugby League reporter Ben Dobbin believes Cameron Munster is set to sign a four-year deal with the Dolphins which would make him the highest paid player in the NRL.

“Munster is a Dolphin, in 2024 I think Munster is a Dolphin,” Dobbin said on Triple M.

“I think it will be a four-year deal,” Dobbin said.

“So that will be roughly around $6 million?” Gorden Tallis then asked.

“Is he worth it? Yes, can he change the fortunates of a club? Yes he can,” Dobbin said.

“Can you put tools around him and will it attract other players? Yes it will.”

While strong in his belief Bennett has his man, Dobbin revealed Bennett could make an audacious bid to lure Latrell Mitchell to Redcliff if the Munster bid fails.

The NRL supercoach mentored Latrell during 2020 and 2021, coming desperately close to a premiership last season.

“If they don’t get Cameron Munster, I’m going to throw you a smokey right now. I believe they will go after Latrell Mitchell… Wayne Bennett’s relationship with Latrell Mitchell runs deep,” Dobbin said on Triple M.

Tallis, however, believed Latrell Mitchell has his roots firmly placed at the South Sydney club, explaining he is the “happiest” he has ever been.

“It is too far away from his farm, I think for Latrell, there is a bigger picture for him,” Tallis said.

“I have never seen a guy more settled and going back to the country and doing what he is doing, that is more important to Latrell now than money.

“I think he is the happiest (he has been).”

MORE NRL NEWS

DONE DEAL: Bulldogs sign Ciraldo on long-term deal

‘PENALTY AT THE LEAST’: Raiders win in controversy ‘almost identical’ to Rd 16

‘A SHADOW OF HIMSELF’: Dragons blasted for handling of rising star

WHISPERS: Knights half eyes early exit, Panthers link to Tigers star heats up

Ciraldo signed to save Dogs! | 01:55

CRICHTON’S FUTURE SECURED

Roosters gun Angus Crichton has revealed his is set to re-sign with the Tricolours, ending speculation surrounding his immediate future.

Initially, the 26-year-old’s two-year contract extension was said to be a handshake deal with no formal contract being registered with the NRL.

Crichton himself acknowledged the speculation has been “tough” but never considered playing for any other club.

“I think we are really close to finalizing something, so hopefully in the next little bit I will sign on for the next two years,” Crichton told 9News.

“It has been tough to have that hanging over my head and to get it sorted will be a massive weight off my shoulders.

“I don’t want to play for any other team.”

Reports linked the Origin backrower to a move to the Tigers with the Roosters’ salary cap facing a big squeeze.

The Daily Telegraph’s Buzz Rothfield revealed the immense cap pressure the Tricolours are under, with seven of the competition’s highest paid players on their books.

“In 2022 they have got Tedesco on $1.1m, Luke Keary on $850,000, Joseph Manu ($720k), Jared Waerea-Hargreaves ($700k), Angus Crichton ($700k), Sio Siua Taukeiaho ($625k) and Victor Radley ( $510k) for a total of $5,205,000,” Rothfield said on NRL360.

With the impending arrival of Brandon Smith and an increase in salary for young gun Joseph Suaalii, Roosters bosses now have to squeeze the remaining 21 players into what is left of their salary cap.

The departure of Ronald Volkman, Freddy Lussick, Daniel Suluka-Fifita and Lachlam Lam has opened cap space.

Sam Verills and Siosiua Taukeiaho are also set to leave at the season’s end, meaning the Roosters could have even more money to re-sign players for 2023 onwards.

Matty nails Buzz impersonation | 00:51

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Categories
Sports

transfernews; Cameron Munster future; player signings, Wayne Bennett Dolphins; Latrell Mitchell; Roosters salary cap, Angus Crichton re-signs

transfernews; Cameron Munster future; player signings, Wayne Bennett Dolphins; Latrell Mitchell; Roosters salary cap, Angus Crichton re-signs

Cameron Munster may soon be headed north with Wayne Bennett reportedly closing in on his marquee man.

Meanwhile, the Roosters have reportedly locked in a key forward after months of speculation surrounding his future.

Stream every game of every round of the 2022 NRL Telstra Premiership Season Live & Ad-Break Free During Play on Kayo. New to Kayo? Start your free trial now >

DOLPHINS NEW MARQUEE TARGET

Rugby League reporter Ben Dobbin believes Cameron Munster is set to sign a four-year deal with the Dolphins which would make him the highest paid player in the NRL.

“Munster is a Dolphin, in 2024 I think Munster is a Dolphin,” Dobbin said on Triple M.

“I think it will be a four-year deal,” Dobbin said.

“So that will be roughly around $6 million?” Gorden Tallis then asked.

“Is he worth it? Yes, can he change the fortunates of a club? Yes he can,” Dobbin said.

“Can you put tools around him and will it attract other players? Yes it will.”

While strong in his belief Bennett has his man, Dobbin revealed Bennett could make an audacious bid to lure Latrell Mitchell to Redcliff if the Munster bid fails.

The NRL supercoach mentored Latrell during 2020 and 2021, coming desperately close to a premiership last season.

“If they don’t get Cameron Munster, I’m going to throw you a smokey right now. I believe they will go after Latrell Mitchell… Wayne Bennett’s relationship with Latrell Mitchell runs deep,” Dobbin said on Triple M.

Tallis, however, believed Latrell Mitchell has his roots firmly placed at the South Sydney club, explaining he is the “happiest” he has ever been.

“It is too far away from his farm, I think for Latrell, there is a bigger picture for him,” Tallis said.

“I have never seen a guy more settled and going back to the country and doing what he is doing, that is more important to Latrell now than money.

“I think he is the happiest (he has been).”

MORE NRL NEWS

DONE DEAL: Bulldogs sign Ciraldo on long-term deal

‘PENALTY AT THE LEAST’: Raiders win in controversy ‘almost identical’ to Rd 16

‘A SHADOW OF HIMSELF’: Dragons blasted for handling of rising star

WHISPERS: Knights half eyes early exit, Panthers link to Tigers star heats up

Ciraldo signed to save Dogs! | 01:55

CRICHTON’S FUTURE SECURED

Roosters gun Angus Crichton has revealed his is set to re-sign with the Tricolours, ending speculation surrounding his immediate future.

Initially, the 26-year-old’s two-year contract extension was said to be a handshake deal with no formal contract being registered with the NRL.

Crichton himself acknowledged the speculation has been “tough” but never considered playing for any other club.

“I think we are really close to finalizing something, so hopefully in the next little bit I will sign on for the next two years,” Crichton told 9News.

“It has been tough to have that hanging over my head and to get it sorted will be a massive weight off my shoulders.

“I don’t want to play for any other team.”

Reports linked the Origin backrower to a move to the Tigers with the Roosters’ salary cap facing a big squeeze.

The Daily Telegraph’s Buzz Rothfield revealed the immense cap pressure the Tricolours are under, with seven of the competition’s highest paid players on their books.

“In 2022 they have got Tedesco on $1.1m, Luke Keary on $850,000, Joseph Manu ($720k), Jared Waerea-Hargreaves ($700k), Angus Crichton ($700k), Sio Siua Taukeiaho ($625k) and Victor Radley ( $510k) for a total of $5,205,000,” Rothfield said on NRL360.

With the impending arrival of Brandon Smith and an increase in salary for young gun Joseph Suaalii, Roosters bosses now have to squeeze the remaining 21 players into what is left of their salary cap.

The departure of Ronald Volkman, Freddy Lussick, Daniel Suluka-Fifita and Lachlam Lam has opened cap space.

Sam Verills and Siosiua Taukeiaho are also set to leave at the season’s end, meaning the Roosters could have even more money to re-sign players for 2023 onwards.

Matty nails Buzz impersonation | 00:51

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