DeVere confirmed, shadows Hodges
January 24, 2009
Michael De Vere’s comeback is now official, after the National Rugby League greenlighted his return for the Broncos.
Having now been in the wilderness for 2 years – the former Australian centre at 32 years of age will help guide the Broncos into a new era.
This will be DeVere’s 10th run on season for the Broncos and will no doubt prove a valuable asset to new coach Ivan Henjack. A noted fitness devotee, Brisbane are reportedly more than happy with his current state and believe he will form a crucial utility role for them in the outside backs.
Brisbane first had to get things past NRL salary cap boss Ian Schubert, De Vere was working in a coaching position with Easts Carina before discussing a possible return to the NRL with his old club.
A Campbelltown NSW juniors, DeVere kicked off his NRL career in 1996 after writing a letter to Wayne Bennett as an unknown kid wanting a shot at the big time. The former NSw centre is a veteran of 170 first grade games at the top level.
It has been 4 years since DeVere played locally, having spent time in the UK Super League before calling it quits.
Departing Brisbane in 2004 – DeVere left his mark on Red Hill, becoming the clubs highest point scorer with 1,082 points from 64 tries and 413 goals, however this accolade has now been eclipsed by current club captain Darren Lockyer a veteran of over 300 NRL games.
Having achieved 3 premierships during his career in 1997, 1998 and 2000 – many classed DeVere as one of the best defensive centres of his time. An ability that saw him thrust into the NSW Origin side against many of his Brisbane teammates.
Notching up 5 State of Origins in total, DeVere also scored 4 Kangaroos Jerseys.
His eventual retirement from the English Super League came after injuries hampered his final few years, his side Huddersfield having lost the Challenge Cup Final 42-12 to St Helens in 2006.
After rejoining the Broncos coaching ranks last year, De Vere said assisting with Easts Carina had stirred up his passion for the game – putting the wheels in motion for his eventual return.
While Brisbane have Israel Folau in 2009, along with test centre Justin Hodges – the volatile Hodges has been on extended leave and continues to worry the club. Hodges remains a leading centre in the game, but his mental state has again troubled him – something that eventually forced him away from the Roosters and back to Brisbane.
The comeback of DeVere provides the Broncos with a ready made replacement should Hodges implode at any stage of the 2009 season.
Cowboys grab Shannon Hegarty
January 24, 2009
The Cowboys have snapped up Shannon Hegarty after the Bunnies cut him loose for season 2009.
Hegarty haven taken the field for over 167 NRL games, including 3 Origin matches for Queensland and 3 Kangaroos Jerseys there is no questioning the experience and ability of the firey outside back.
The Cowboys will no doubt be hoping a fresh environment can re-ignite Hegarty, returning him to the form of seasons gone by where he was up there with the most damaging speedsters.
While Hegarty has struggled for form and fitness in recent seasons, the presence of Billy Johnstone at North Queensland could prove a major factor in getting Hegarty back to his best. While never quite reaching lofty heights at the Rabbitohs, his ability was proven beyond doubt at the Roosters; earning the player Origin and Kangaroos spots.
Having grown up in Cowboys territory – the move is a well suited one to Hegarty who played the junior grades up North. He also has an existing association with new coach Neil Henry who played a big part in his early development.
Hegarty also confirmed the ability of fitness coach Billy Johnstone, who he worked with on a Kangaroo tour, also helped lure him to the Cowboys lair.
Chief executive Peter Parr was pleased to have secured Hegarty for the 2009 line-up.
“A player of Shannon’s experience and ability will be a valuable asset to the club,” Parr says.
The Cowboys having secured a new coach and several new faces for 2009 will be hoping for much improved results after missing the Top 8 last year.
Fitzgibbon hits out at critics
January 23, 2009
After a stellar 2008 season, Roosters veteran Craig Fitzgibbon has hinted he may keep going in 2010 – with or without the Roosters; burying suggestions he will head to the Super League at year end.
The rejuvinated Fitzgibbon remains on a 1-year deal with the Rooster – but after returning to State of Origin and Australian duties in 2008, there would surely be a number of local NRL clubs happy to sign him post 2009.
Retirement seems to be the last thing on Fitzgibbons mind; setting the scene for another dominating year. Surrounded by a new playing good at the Roosters, he has thrived on the improved results the Bondi club is seeing. Having new guys such as Willie Mason, Mark O’Meley and a talented group of young forwards – has allowed the backrower to reduce his tackling workload and be much more productive in attack.
Seen in a similar light to Nathan Hindmarsh at the Eels in recent times; Fitzgibbon became a tackling specialist. A work-a-holic player, that gave too much in defence to pose a threat in attack. But unlike Hindmarsh, Fitzgibbon chose to reinvent himself; reducing his defensive workload to because a real tackle buster with possession.
Someone with his experience knows where and when to hit the line; providing massive metres and showing the way for younger forwards. The introduction of new coach Brad Fittler has probably paid a part too in assisting Fitzgibbon to find old form; ensuring the whole team takes on defensive duties and not leaving it to the player most likely to cover.
At 31 years of age, Fitzgibbon now looks at things differently post 2009. Confirming he would be prepared to even look at other local NRL clubs should things not proceed past this year at the Roosters.
“I’m pretty open minded about it you know,” Fitzgibbon said.
“I look back in previous years with a bit of disappointment that I listened to other people who say ‘you’re on you’re way out’.
It’s interesting to hear Fitzgibbon talk about voices from the past. You can’t help but ask, “Who is he talking about?”. Previous mentors in recent years include Chris Anderson and Ricky Stuart – however, there were many sections of the League community saying the veteran backrower was past his prime.
“I got to the point where you do something about it, but I’ve also been lucky that our team performances have improved.”
Making his debut back in 1997, the goal kicking Fitzy can play several positions including lock, second row and even prop.
It seems getting the recall for NSW Origin was the spark that set Fitzgibbon off. The player confirming this week to Illawarra publications that playing State of Origin changed his whole outlook. The belief was back it seems; with Fitzy burying any demons from the critics that may have seeded in his mind.
“In years past if I’ve played rep footy I’ve sort of struggled after it, but last year I played a little bit better after it,” he said.
“It was good confidence-wise you know, getting a rep jersey.”
Fitzgibbon underwent surgery to correct niggling elbow and foot injuries at the end of last year, but said he was hopeful of playing in at least one trial game before the NRL season starts against the Rabbitohs on March 15.
The Roosters’ first trial game is against St George Illawarra in Perth on February 14.
Even though it will be only their first hit-out, Fitzgibbon yesterday said he expected the Dragons to be fired up for the clash in a bid to impress new coach Wayne Bennett.
“Yeah, they will,” he said. “Whenever I’m down at mum and dad’s (at Dapto), I breeze through the Mercury or bump into the Dragons boys when I’m out and about and there’s an air of confidence about them already.
“It just gets created when you’ve got someone like Wayne, who is a great coach and a good person and instills that belief in you.
“I had a couple of years under him with the Australian team and I know how he operates.”
At a time when the average age of NRL players continues to drop; with the likes of big money European offers, off-field incidents and even Union opportunities – Fitzgibbon continues to fly in the face of the trends. Reinvention, hardwork and a passion for the game – rare components these days in a dollar hungry game.
South Sydney and Hegarty part ways
January 22, 2009
The South Sydney club have today released former Australia and Queensland outside back Shannon Hegarty from his final season with the club.
With only a few weeks until the start of the 2009 season, Hegarty will need to work quickly to secure local services or he may choose to look at lucrative overseas options.
Souths said today that both the club and Hegarty agreed to terms – allowing the player to part on good terms before the start of his final year on contract.
A former Australian Kangaroos representative and Stage of Origin player for the Maroons, Hegarty was a standout during his time at the Sydney Roosters, but has struggled for consistency at the Rabbitohs.
Hegarty, since linking with South Sydney in 2004 has only managed 59 games for the Rabbitohs – hampered by injury and competition for outside back spots at the Bunnies.
In recent seasons, Hegarty has been hot and cold for Souths. Probably lacking a few yards of speed that he once had and struggling with defensive decisions at times. However, when on his game – Hegarty was a punishing player that punched well above his weight on the fringes.
Making things harder for the player, was the fact that Souths have some promising players coming through the ranks in the outside backs. Guys such Beau Champion, Buddy Gordon and Fetuli Talanoa have all kept the pressure on for spots – adding to the likes of Nathan Merritt who has been a consistent standout for the red and greens; and even John Sutton who at times has played on the edge.
Currently 29 years of age, Hegarty was contracted for 2009 – but will now be a free agent. Souths like the Melbourne Storm and a handful of other clubs are believed to be flying close to the wind in regards to salary cap targets and this culling may be a result of that pressure.
Warriors easing Stacey Jones in
January 22, 2009
New Zealand Warriors coach Ivan Cleary has confirmed this morning that returning half-back Stacey Jones will be eased into the 2009 season after a 12 month layoff from Rugby League.
Speaking on the 2KY Big Sports Breakfast this morning, Cleary confirmed that Jones has been eased back into training and will be given all the time he needs to reach peak fitness in the 2009 pre-season.
With the recent re-signing of utility Nathan Fien after a last minute meeting with Cleary, it’s more than likely that Fien could be used in an alternating role between hooker and half-back – something that will give Stacey Jones much more freedom in his twilight.
Having the luxury of rotating Stacey Jones on the bench could provide massive impact for the NZ Warriors and will shield the Kiwi star from injury and burn-out in his comeback year. Fien, who has carved his mark as a hooker in recent times – showed enough promise as halfback in the Rugby League World Cup to be a deputy for Jones in 2009.
The presence of Michael Witt should also help Stacey Jones; Witt continues to improve his kicking game in both long and short forms – allowing Jones to take a backseat and only put boot to ball when needed.
Cleary also confirmed it has been an encouraging and excited Stacey Jones returning to training; something that will surely rub off on Warriors team mates.
The New Zealand club certainly needs a boost; only recently losing young star Sonny Fai – something that Cleary said is almost impossible to put behind them.
“You just need to get on with general activities;” Cleary stated. And it seems keeping busy at training may be the only way for the young side to get over this tough time for all involved.
This week the scale of the search has been reduced significantly, with Cleary passing thanks to the emergency services and others of who gave many man hours to search for Sonny Fai.
Only time will tell how the Warriors side bounce back from this tragedy, the event could cause them total distraction or it could forge a new bond that takes them even further in the NRL competition this year.
With a talented young side showing plenty of ability last year; the addition of the experienced and proven Stacey Jones seems like the ideal sweetener to edge this young crew further in the tournament and on the back of recent Rugby League World Cup success – the supporters could be on-hand to help them build on 2008.
Eels: Moi Moi only cops fine
January 22, 2009
As predicted by NRL News earlier this week – Eels prop Fui Fui Moi Moi was only handed a fine for his late return to Eels duties. After returning 2 weeks late from his Pacific Island holiday, an extremely far fetched story was hatched by local media outlets predicting the Parramatta club would sack Moi Moi.
Close to the Eels best forward in recent times, there would be any amount of clubs lining up to sign Moi Moi if he was sacked – making the claims even more ridiculous; however with the NRL season still several weeks away – it seems media outlets will work hard to sell their products.
Moimoi was back into training on Tuesday, where he and his manager held a short meeting with Eels boss Denis Fitzgerald and new coach Daniel Anderson to work through the delayed return to duties.
Moi moi was handed a breach notice late Wednesday; for an amount which is yet unconfirmed.
Moi Moi was naturally unhappy about the whole situation and has offered to do extra training to make up for lost time with the team.
With several departures at the Eels in recent years including; Tim Smith, Mark Riddell, PJ Marsh, Chad Robinson and Timana Tahu – plus the fact that Parramatta have been virtually dormant in the recruitment department, there was no way in the world Moi Moi was getting booted.Interestingly, the story around Moi Moi continued to get air-time in the media – when Brett Finch was interviewed, apparently trying to add weight to the arguement.
With poor results last year, the Parramatta club will be under the pump from Day 1 in the 2009 season. This minor setback regarding Moi Moi hasn’t been the ideal start so far.
Dean Young ideal fit for Dragons captain
January 21, 2009
Former Steeler and Dragons player Rod Wishart has earmarked current Dragons forward Dean Young as the man to lead the new look club for 2009.
While injury would be the main challenger to Young; should the talented forward remain healthy – he would be an ideal choice for new coach Wayne Bennett.
Bennett apparently is considering Young along with other experienced players Matt Cooper, Ben Hornby and Ben Creagh – to take over the role left open by the departed Mark Gasnier in 2008.
“He’s a player who will never shirk any work,” Wishart said.
“It’s his work ethic, he’s tough, he leads by example and when the going gets tough he leads the way.
“Bennett’s a guy who commands respect.
“And as a captain, Dean already has the respect of the players.”
“He showed his leadership ability at an early age and I think he can certainly still develop as a captain if he was given the role.”
A versatile player who can switch between lock and hooker or five-eighth, Young has battled knee problems in recent seasons and faces major challenges for a starting position from Dragons recruits Luke Priddis and Jeremy Smith.
“The competition for spots might just spur (Young) on,” Wishart, who played 17 Tests for Australia and 22 State of Origin games for NSW, said.
“He has had a couple of injuries, but he might be back to his best this year and I like the way he plays.”
While Cooper will remain in his favoured left centre position and Creagh is likely to retain a place in the second row, Hornby’s role is also up in the air this year as he recovers from shoulder surgery.
Having made his name at fullback, Hornby played virtually the entire season at halfback under Nathan Brown last year.
Former St George Illawarra assistant coach David Barnhill, meantime, said it was hard to split the captaincy credentials of Cooper, Hornby and Young.
However, Barnhill, an Origin second-rower with NSW, leaned towards Hornby because of his previous experience leading the Dragons.
Hornby has taken the captaincy role in recent seasons when Gasnier or former prop Jason Ryles was injured.
“Hornby’s probably not getting as many mentions for the job as the others, but he’s got the experience,” he said.
“When Rylesy or Gaz has been out in the past he’s been the one to step up, so I’m sure he’d do a great job.”
Super League’s Klein joins NRL refs
January 21, 2009
Leading Super League and International referee Ashley Klein, has quit his post in the UK and will join the NRL ranks for 2009 in Australia.
Klein, 29, will now be able to link up with his wife and 2 kids in Australia and will challenge for top spot in the NRL referee ranks.
The timing is ideal for the NRL, with several leading referees walking away in recent years and only a couple of current whistleblowers showing true consistentcy.
Not only will there be new referees on deck for 2009; the introduction of dual officials on field will no doubt take time to bed down as coaches and teams adjust to the more stricter governance. While most believe the 2nd referee will speed the game up, forcing players of the tackled man quicker – the introduction of Klein will be an interesting one.
Klein seemingly referees in a similar style of Bill Harrigan; he allows the game to flow but is still able to keep control of the players. His form at international level was impressive and he should quickly develop into one of the top 3 referees in the NRL. His style is totally contrasting to locals referee’s such as Ben Cummins who will at times over-officiate a game to the point where players and spectators are driven crazy.
European RFL referees’ chief Stuart Cummings paid tribute to Klein, saying in a statement Tuesday: “Ashley has had a very difficult decision to make but has understandably decided to join his family in Australia.
“Therefore, we have decided it is in the best interests of all parties concerned to accept his resignation with immediate affect.
“We understand that following the announcement last week that his family wish to stay in Australia that the NRL has subsequently offered him a position in their competition.”Cummings, paying tribute to Klein, said in a statement Tuesday: “Ashley has had a very difficult decision to make but has understandably decided to join his family in Australia.
“Therefore, we have decided it is in the best interests of all parties concerned to accept his resignation with immediate affect.
“We understand that following the announcement last week that his family wish to stay in Australia that the NRL has subsequently offered him a position in their competition.”
Moi Moi won’t be sacked by Eels
January 20, 2009
Headlines are swirling around Eels bullocking prop Fui Fui Moi Moi today regarding his late return to Sydney after a delayed holiday in Tonga.
While Parramatta have an investigation into why Moi Moi was late returning to duties; but Eels sources suggest that it’s purely a media beat up and the chances of Moi Moi being sacked are virtually nil. The Moi Moi clan were apparently cut-off from transport in the South Pacific as flooding and storms made travel impossible.
The Eels do want to confirm the story to ensure Moi Moi hasn’t misled officials. However if Moi Moi is caught out, the Eels will lean towards suspension or other discipline action as opposed to chopping the talented prop. The Eels have struggled for muscle up front in recent times and when fully fit Moi Moi is considered a powerhouse in the NRL tournament; there would be little chance the club would tear up the existing deal.
As the NRL season approaches and media outlets chase Rugby League stories; it is possible for things to be blown way out of proportion and this is the case with the reporting on Moi Moi at the Eels.
Moi Moi is apparently set to return to the training paddock today with Eels teammates. Player manager Roy Spagnola, will apparently be on hand to explain the delayed trip back to Australia.
Unless Parramatta are convinced his late arrival was unavoidable, Moi Moi may be docked pay or sent to park football for a given timeframe.
Earlier this week, Moi Moi’s manager Spagnola said there was no way the player could have got home from Tonga any quicker than he did.
There was wide reporting of the storms and floods in Fiji, it’s believed these weather conditions also hampered various other South Pacific islands also.
“Fui Fui was on a small island, not on the mainland,” Spagnola said.
“He’s been waiting since last Wednesday to get a flight back.
“He should have been back on (January
so he’s about nine or 10 days late. But he will be at training (today).”
Spagnola had been in contact with his player on the phone and asked him to call Eels coach Daniel Anderson to keep him informed of the situation.
“I don’t think the coach was happy about it but he basically said, ‘Get back as soon as you can’,” Spagnola said.
With the Eels battling an average season in 2008, along with the fact veteran forwards Hindmarsh and Cayless are in the twilight of their careers – they would be crazy to set Moi Moi free. The Togan forward was in hot demand when previously off-contract, with the Storm going all out to nab him before the Eels fought out an alleged forged contract signing saga.
Des Hasler: Too early to confirm Roos
January 19, 2009
Sea Eagles coach Des Hasler is apparently in the sights of ARL officials as they hunt down a replacement for Ricky Stuart at the top post.
While previously it was Queensland’s Mal Meninga being touted; now it seems Tigers veteran mentor Tim Sheens and even the Gold Coast’s John Cartwright are in the frame. However it’s believed that Hasler and Sheens are the lead runners at this stage. Meninga while popular, probably needs more time at the coaching helm after being in the background for many years; returning in recent times during the Origin series in tandem with Neil Henry.
John Cartwright is a bolter choice, but while only junior in his coaching experience – he has proved himself at the Titans so far, and spent many years as the assistance to Stuart at the Roosters.
Meninga apparently still wants a shot at the gig, but has been denied by ARL policy, which says a State of Origin coach cannot also run the national team.
It is understood Cartwright will be sounded out after impressing Kangaroos players as an assistant to Stuart during the World Cup late last year. But the ARL is also keen to interview Hasler after he steered Manly to their first premiership in 12 years last season.
ARL chief executive Geoff Carr will finalise a shortlist over the next fortnight before announcing the new coach after a board meeting around mid-February.
“I’m not going to talk about who’s favourite and who’s not, but I will make discreet inquiries with a couple of coaches and give the board a shortlist,” Carr said.
“Generally your best coach is going to be involved in the NRL.
“There’s a few coaches I have in mind, so I’ll move on it in the next few weeks and I’m expecting we’ll make a decision some time in February.”
Hasler said he wouldn’t seriously consider coaching Australia until formally approached by the ARL.
Hasler remained elusive on the 2KY Big Sports Breakfast this morning when interviewed by Jimmy Smith; saying he also require input from Manly officials as to his ability to take on the new role – should he be offered it. The Hasler fit could be a good one at national level; the role naturally requiring a good rapport with players; however the majority of focus is on match fitness plus squad and player rotations before and during matches.
Hasler would fit the bill here well. He would add value to the team, without upsetting the apple cart. Obviously the top line players don’t need detailed coaching at this level, it’s more motivation and being interchanged at the right times.
“The Australian job is something that you never put your hand up for,” he said. “It’s something you’re invited to do. Until that happens for me, it’s speculation. It would be a wonderful honour and, of course, I’d give it serious consideration, but I have a big enough job here at Manly.”
Cartwright has pedigree as a former NSW and Test back-rower, and Titans managing director Michael Searle said he would have no problem with his coach accepting the Kangaroos post.
