Phil Gould, the head of the Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs, has voiced his opinions on the controversies surrounding the recruitment strategies of the Perth Bears as they prepare for their upcoming NRL entry next year.
On Nine's 100% Footy, Bears board member James Bracey faced renewed scrutiny, as both Gould and co-panellist Paul Gallen expressed their stance that the Bears should not be seeking any dispensation from the NRL.
This discussion echoed an intense exchange from the previous week, which saw Bracey and Gallen engage in a heated debate over recruitment practices.
Gallen criticized the Bears' approach to player signings and their marketing efforts, raising valid concerns about their strategies.
With the Sydney Morning Herald revealing that the Bears may be receiving assistance from the NRL, tensions increased significantly.
This week, Gallen reaffirmed his viewpoint, arguing that existing clubs would find themselves at a disadvantage should the Perth team get any advantages from the NRL.
"I don't think you deserve any salary cap dispensation or any help," Gallen remarked.
"What happens to the rest of the competition? Gus, if they get salary cap dispensation, are you gonna be upset?" he added.
In response, Gould challenged the notion of the Bears needing any support, citing their presence in Australia and the time they've had to prepare their team and secure commercial partnerships.