LeagueNews.co | Cooper McEnroe
Former rugby league player Andrew Johns has criticized the widespread criticism and backlash that Brad Fittler received for losing back-to-back State of Origin series, stating that it played a role in Fittler's decision to step down as NSW coach.
Fittler, who had been in charge for six years, announced on Thursday that he was withdrawing himself from contention for the Blues coach position.
The NSWRL board reportedly offered Fittler a one-year deal and a significant pay cut, while he had wanted a two-year extension.
Johns, who had worked as an assistant coach with Fittler, expressed his frustration at those who had criticized Fittler and questioned his coaching abilities.
He pointed out that the Queensland media would never treat the Maroons coach in the same manner.
Johns also highlighted the personal nature of the criticism directed at Fittler and Greg Alexander, the Blues advisor.
He believed that the pile-on last year was extreme and disappointing, and that it happened every year.
Johns expressed his expectation that Fittler would continue in the role for the next season and described it as a "mistake" on the part of the board not to accommodate his requests.
Fittler had achieved immediate success in the role, winning the first two series in 2018 and 2019.
However, his overall record will finish at 3-3 after losing three of the last four series.