LeagueNews.co | Jason Patrick
NRL legend Mark Geyer has come out in support of Dragons coach Anthony Griffin's decision to ban winger Christian Tuipolutu's controversial post-try celebration.
The Dragons have been struggling at the start of the season, with two consecutive losses and the departure of forward Francis Molo.
Tuipolutu's impressive performance on the field, scoring four tries in two matches, has been overshadowed by his 'show me the money' celebration, which has drawn criticism for being inappropriate given the team's poor performance.
Geyer defended Griffin's decision, stating, "I have no problem with players celebrating tries, but not when you are losing.
There needs to be a level of understanding and a little bit of understanding for the situation." Tuipolutu has been warned about his celebrations, with Griffin emphasizing the need for players to show respect and sportsmanship, especially during tough times.
Despite Tuipolutu's individual success, the team as a whole has been struggling to find their form.
Geyer acknowledged this, noting, "The Dragons are 0-2, they are entitled to be playing better than what they are.
So until they start winning, I agree with 'hook' on this matter." Griffin's decision to address the issue reflects his commitment to maintaining discipline and professionalism within the team, even during challenging times.
Tuipolutu's celebrations have been a point of contention among fans and commentators, with many questioning the appropriateness of his actions given the team's lackluster performance.
Geyer's support of the coach's decision underscores the importance of upholding team values and focusing on the collective effort rather than individual accolades.
As the Dragons work to turn their season around and improve their standings, it is crucial for players to remain focused on the bigger picture and demonstrate solidarity on and off the field.