LeagueNews.co | Cooper McEnroe
In a move reminiscent of a last-minute field goal attempt, Cowboys assistant coach James Maloney has been given the boot after an alleged drink driving incident rocked North Queensland on the brink of their finals campaign.
The news, first reported by The Courier Mail, sees Maloney facing the end of his coaching tenure with the Cowboys following a run-in with the law before their clash with the Bulldogs in Sydney.
Maloney, who was reportedly pulled over for a DUI offense over the weekend, has been swiftly shown the door by the club.
Cowboys football chief Micheal Luck confirmed the decision, stating that Maloney has been officially let go by North Queensland ahead of Round 27.
The sudden departure serves as a stark reminder of the high standards expected in the NRL, with no room for error both on and off the field.
Maloney's exit will no doubt leave a void in the Cowboys' coaching lineup as they navigate the final stretch of the season, facing challenges akin to a rugby league team battling injuries and fatigue in the closing minutes of a tough match.
As the dust settles on this off-field drama, one thing remains clear - in the game of rugby league, discipline and accountability are as crucial as a well-executed play or a perfectly-timed tackle.
Maloney's dismissal serves as a cautionary tale for all players and coaches, reinforcing the need for professionalism and responsibility in the high-pressure world of professional sport.