Shane Flanagan has expressed concerns that the Dragons could face a challenging period ahead, drawing parallels to his premiership-winning season with the Sharks in 2016, which began similarly to his current 2025 season.
The Red V experienced their third consecutive defeat at the hands of the Eels, losing 30-20 in a match that seemed winnable.
Despite their disappointing run of form, Flanagan remains optimistic, having encountered similar situations previously, though he notes that this time around, the team is different.
"But you know, I look back and this is not a similar team, but I think I lost three in-a-row in 2016 and we won 15 in-a-row," Flanagan shared.
"So don't worry, certain sides are going to lose three in-a-row during the year. Unfortunately, we've lost three at the start.
"Maybe it's a really good kickstart for us, that's the way I'll be using it."