LeagueNews.co | Jess Malloy
Canberra Raiders officials and coach Ricky Stuart are reportedly "fuming" after the Sydney Roosters poached key recruitment figure Joel Carbone.
The Sydney Morning Herald reported that the Roosters, coached by Trent Robinson, have successfully signed Carbone, which has frustrated the Raiders, particularly as they sit second on the NRL ladder, just two points behind the Canterbury Bulldogs, despite having fewer byes than their top-four rivals.
Carbone has played a crucial role in the Raiders' recent success, contributing to a significant rebuild under Stuart.
His departure is particularly concerning for the Raiders due to ongoing tensions between the two clubs, especially at the coaching level.
The report highlights that both Stuart and Robinson have a competitive history dating back to before 2019, and both clubs prioritize the recruitment and development of local talent.
While the Roosters may tend to invest heavily in marquee players, they also face competition for signings from the Raiders, who share a cautious approach toward controversial player manager Isaac Moses.
The Roosters recently lost their recruitment lead, Clint Zammit, to the Cowboys, which could complicate their efforts to attract Newcastle star Kalyn Ponga, who Zammit had previously recruited to North Queensland in 2013.
In response to Zammit's departure, the Roosters acted quickly to secure Carbone from Canberra.
This raises concerns for the Raiders that Carbone's deep understanding of their roster could make them susceptible to future raids.
The club hopes to retain promising young talents, such as Ethan Strange, Owen Pattie, Chevy Stewart, and Ethan Sanders, who have all developed under Stuart's guidance.