LeagueNews.co | Cooper McEnroe
Steve 'Blocker' Roach has called for calm among the New South Wales rugby league veterans as a public feud between Aaron Woods and Ryan Hoffman threatens to overshadow the State of Origin decider.
Reports from zerotackle.com indicate that tension escalated during a discussion on ABC's Offsiders when Hoffman labeled Woods a "coward." This remark came after Woods referred to Maroons coach Billy Slater as a "grub" following Origin II.
Hoffman criticized Woods for pursuing media attention at the expense of team unity, describing his comments as "idiotic and unhelpful."
Hoffman stated: "Aaron Woods was a coward for standing behind a microphone and throwing that (grub remark) out there.
If Woodsy wants to make a name for himself in the media by making idiotic comments, it's going to be a sad media career."
Roach emphasized the need for the players to focus on their game rather than engage in personal disputes.
The intensity of their rivalry and the looming decider could significantly impact team morale and preparation, highlighting the urgency for a united front as they gear up for the crucial match.