After a dismal Round 6, I was pleased and grateful that Round 7 unfolded in such a contrasting manner.
A thrilling finish in Darwin set the tone for an enjoyable weekend, free from controversial refereeing and hasty rule changes.
While not flawless, the improvements were significant. Thank goodness!
Off the field, the Dragons made a pivotal move by terminating the contract of coach Shane Flanagan, an event that will be analyzed thoroughly.
1. The Dragons have finally taken the long-overdue step to dismiss Shane Flanagan along with General Manager of football, Ben Haran. This change was necessary, and interestingly, it seems that Manly's recent resurgence following a similar decision may have influenced their timing.
2. Dean Young will step in as interim coach, though I don't believe he should be a candidate for a permanent role. Michael Ennis, who has resigned, and even Ben Hornby, should also be disregarded. The team must break free from this boys club mentality. If experience is sought, they should consider Brad Arthur or Jason Demetriou, or even take a chance on a different direction.
3. While I don't think players intend to get their coach sacked, it often feels like they aren't fully committed to their coach. Valentine Holmes' ten missed tackles last weekend were particularly troubling. A player of his caliber should be performing much better; such efforts merit a stint in the NSW Cup or the stands on Anzac Day.
4. Both Anthony Seibold and Shane Flanagan were let go in the first year of their new contracts. Who was responsible for handing out these extensions? This oversight now leaves both clubs financially liable when they should have freed themselves of these coaches at season's end.
5. Despite many unbalanced games, the overall competition remains tightly contested. The Sharks stand at three wins and three losses, the Tigers stumbled against the young Broncos after a promising streak, and the Eels bounced back from a 50-point loss to defeat the team that bested the Panthers. The Dolphins are unpredictable, and Newcastle's performance fluctuates. Only Penrith and the Dragons offer any semblance of consistency.