LeagueNews.co | Jess Malloy
Canberra Raiders head coach Ricky Stuart has come to the defense of Kyle Flanagan, urging fans and the media to consider how they'd feel if Flanagan were part of their family.
Flanagan showed improvements during a recent game but was unable to help the St George Illawarra Dragons secure a comeback against the Raiders.
The game resulted in the Raiders taking the lead in the standings, positioning them well for a potential playoff spot, while the Dragons face challenges, needing a winning streak to remain in contention for the finals, exacerbated by injuries.
In response to the ongoing and intense criticism directed toward both Kyle and his father, Shane Flanagan, Stuart expressed his concerns.
He shared a personal fear of facing similar public scrutiny regarding his own son, Jed Stuart, who recently debuted with the Raiders.
"I think it's a disgrace how you guys in the media are just absolutely bashing a kid publicly," he stated during a post-match press conference.