Articles

[getsmarty]

Coach's Preview: NRLW Round 2 v Warriors
Dragons women's premiership coach Daniel Lacey gives his thoughts on marquee signing Teuila Fotu-Moala's controversial season ending suspension and the Dragons' matchup against the Warriors.

https://www.dragons.com.au/news/2019/09/18/coachs-preview-nrlw-round-2-v-warriors/

 

[getsmarty]

Apps confident Dragons will bounce back quickly
St George Illawarra Dragons captain Kezie Apps says her side will respond after their Round 1 NRLW loss to the Brisbane Broncos

https://www.dragons.com.au/news/2019/09/19/apps-confident-dragons-will-bounce-back-quickly/

 

[getsmarty]

"It's really unfair" - Kezie Apps on Teuila Fotu-Moala's suspension
St George Illawarra Dragons women's captain Kezie Apps gives her view on the season-ending suspension of Teuila Fotu-Moala.

https://www.dragons.com.au/news/201...-kezie-apps-on-teuila-fotu-moalas-suspension/

 

[getsmarty]

Dragons look to future with NRLW development players
St George Illawarra Dragons women's coach Daniel Lacey talks about the 2019 NRLW development players and what they bring to the club.

https://www.dragons.com.au/news/2019/09/20/dragons-look-to-future-with-nrlw-development-players/

 

[getsmarty]

2019 NRLW development players earn their stripes
Author
Dragons.com.au dragons.com.au
Timestamp
Fri 20 Sep 2019, 03:14 PM

St George Illawarra have announced Jamie Chapman, Filomina Hanisi, Mareva Swann and Viena Tinao as the Dragons' 2019 NRL Holden Women's Premiership development players.

This comes following the success of inaugural Dragons' Women's Premiership development players Aaliyah Fasavalu-Fa'amausili and Maddison Weatherall last year – who are both now fully-fledged NRLW-contracted players.

Showcasing the Dragons' pathway for the female game once again, the young quartet is further proof for young aspiring athletes that their rugby league dreams are possible.

"Development players are very important for a club like the Dragons. We thought it was really important to again introduce a couple of girls from our Tarsha Gale Cup system into our Women's Premiership squad," Dragons Women's Premiership coach Daniel Lacey said.

"Aaliyah (Fasavalu-Fa'amausili) from the St George Under-18s and Maddison (Weatherall) from the Steelers' Under-18s are a testament to this given they have progressed as development players to now contracted NRLW players.

Left to right: Mareva Swann, Viena Tinao, Jamie Chapman and Filomina Hanisi.
"It's proven that it's worked which is why we have expanded our development squad to four players for 2019.

"All of our 2019 development players are on the right path. They all played Under-18s for New South Wales earlier this year, which I was lucky enough to coach. Seeing what they could bring to that elite level, both on and off the field, was important especially in group environments with them all being so young.

"None of the four players are overawed by the Women's Premiership squad and I'm really hopeful they can follow Aaliyah and Maddison's lead and earn NRL Women's Premiership contracts in the coming years."

Outside back Chapman (aged 17), lock Swann (18) and front-rowers Hanisi (18) and Tinao (17) have trained with the Women's Premiership squad since the pre-season's commencement, where they have gained invaluable experience.

Importantly, Hanisi and Swann come from the St George Tarsha Gale Cup system while Tinao featured for the Tarsha Gale Cup premiership-winning Illawarra team. Chapman, meanwhile, featured for the Sharks' Under-18s team in 2019.

"Both [Filomina and Swann] have come through St George's strong and successful Tarsha Gale Cup system this season, and both of them made the New South Wales Under-18s on the back of that. With both of them of age this year, we thought we'd bring them into the Women's Premiership fold in case any injuries arose within the squad," Lacey said.

"Viena is still a year younger than everyone else, meaning she can play Tarsha Gale again next year. She's a really strong and powerful forward, and only injury prevented her from being in Player of the Year contention. We have high hopes for her in future seasons.

"Jamie really impresses me in terms of her athleticism. She's still a year young, meaning she can play Tarsha Gale Cup in 2020, and although she comes from outside of our catchment area I could just see her ability and how she could benefit from being around our Women's Premiership squad and team."


https://www.dragons.com.au/news/2019/09/20/2019-nrlw-development-players-earn-their-stripes/

 

[getsmarty]

DRAGONS


Five things: NRLW Round 2 v Warriors
Author
Dragons.com.au dragons.com.au
Timestamp
Sat 21 Sep 2019, 10:26 AM

Records will be broken on Sunday when the Warriors host the Dragons in a history making Women's Premiership clash. Here are five things to keep an eye out for during the match.

Home away from home

Despite the match being a home game for the Warriors, a large portion of the Dragons will be heading back to New Zealand and playing in front of friends and family.

Six players from the Dragons hail from New Zealand including fullback Bo Vette-Welsh and playmaker Kimiora Nati. The stands will be filled with Warriors supporters but don't discount a strong Dragons contingent cheering on their New Zealand-born players wearing the Red V.

Nati watch

For followers on the women's game, it's no surprise Kimiora Nati will be an essential factor if the Dragons are to win on Sunday.

The New Zealand international and last year's Karyn Murphy Medallist (best on ground) in the first NRLW grand final, Nati's influence on any given game is evident.

Nati starred for the Dragons in their last start, setting up the Dragons' only try from a pinpoint kick and also had the fastest play the ball of any player on the ground (2.16s). Nati's impact holds the key to a Dragons victory.

Kimiora Nati in action for the Dragons
History making clash

The Warriors host St George Illawarra in Round 2 of the Women's Premiership at Mt Smart Stadium in the first standalone fixture in NRLW history. It is also the first Women's Premiership match held in New Zealand.

The Warriors have never beaten the Dragons and will no doubt see Sunday's history-making clash as a chance to do so.

Charntay Poko v Maddie Studdon

Two vastly different playmakers but equally as influential, come head to head in this crucial match up.

Poko was the star of Round 1 last week, scoring an important try and also producing one line break, five tackle breaks and kicking for an impressive 515 metres.

While Studdon struggled to test the Broncos, her displays on the representative stage for both Australia and New South Wales in the past continue to highlight the threat she poses in attack.

Keep an eye on the two halfbacks and who has a bigger influence on the outcome.



"It's really unfair" - Kezie Apps on Teuila Fotu-Moala's suspension

Now or never

With a short three-game season, Sunday's match is already a must win game for the Dragons.

The Warriors started strong with a victory over the Roosters while the Dragons came up short against the Broncos. If the Dragons are a chance to make the 2019 grand final, they will need to win their next two games and hope they have done enough to qualify for the big dance.

https://www.dragons.com.au/news/2019/09/21/five-things-nrlw-round-2-v-warriors/

 

[ViceVersa]

Review finds Dragons need trusted advisor – someone like Gus

By Adrian Proszenko
September 21, 2019 — 9.48pm

Phil Gould has tabled his review into St George Illawarra, but his work at the club may not be over.

Gould and the Dragons football department have submitted their reviews following the joint-venture outfit’s 15th-placed finish, the worst in the club’s history. One of the key findings is the need to bolster the Red V brains trust to ensure coach Paul McGregor has experienced sounding boards around him. That includes creating a new ‘‘adviser’’ position, someone with the football nous and expertise to help turn the joint-venture outfit around. Someone like Gould.

While some coaches would feel threatened by the prospect of having someone of Gould’s stature involved in their organisation, McGregor welcomes the prospect. The way ‘‘Mary’’ sees it, having a premiership-winning mentor – the most successful NSW coach in State of Origin history – can only be of benefit. If Gould can’t commit to the role, other experienced football minds will be considered.

The review also suggests bringing specialist coaching consultants into the inner sanctum. Someone of the ilk of Matthew Johns, who has previously helped clubs develop playmakers, would fit the bill if available. There may also be a restructure of the roles of the assistant coaches. One of the main themes to emerge from Gould’s review is the need for the club to properly establish its culture. It became apparent there isn’t a definitive DNA that defines the Dragons.

What does it mean to pull on the Red V? What are the values the wider organisation stands for? It’s likely an outside facilitator will be engaged to help define club culture from the top down.

The need for strong foundations was highlighted when the review analysed the Jack de Belin situation. The impact of the star forward’s sexual assault charges was felt right across the club, with some of his teammates’ partners having strong opinions on the matter.

That led to some awkward situations in social settings, normally an opportunity to solidify bonds within the extended Dragons family.

The cultural issue is important, given there were no red flags raised from reviewing the Dragons’ physical performance. The injury rates over the past four years have been relatively low, while all the stats suggest the players are fit and well prepared.

The Dragons haven’t much room to move salary cap wise next year, but the need to strengthen their winger stocks was identified.

The Dragons board has now gone away to consider the review.

https://www.smh.com.au/sport/nrl/re...advisor-someone-like-gus-20190921-p52tmq.html

 

[getsmarty]

Review finds Dragons need trusted advisor – someone like Gus

By Adrian Proszenko
September 21, 2019 — 9.48pm

Phil Gould has tabled his review into St George Illawarra, but his work at the club may not be over.

Gould and the Dragons football department have submitted their reviews following the joint-venture outfit’s 15th-placed finish, the worst in the club’s history. One of the key findings is the need to bolster the Red V brains trust to ensure coach Paul McGregor has experienced sounding boards around him. That includes creating a new ‘‘adviser’’ position, someone with the football nous and expertise to help turn the joint-venture outfit around. Someone like Gould.

While some coaches would feel threatened by the prospect of having someone of Gould’s stature involved in their organisation, McGregor welcomes the prospect. The way ‘‘Mary’’ sees it, having a premiership-winning mentor – the most successful NSW coach in State of Origin history – can only be of benefit. If Gould can’t commit to the role, other experienced football minds will be considered.

The review also suggests bringing specialist coaching consultants into the inner sanctum. Someone of the ilk of Matthew Johns, who has previously helped clubs develop playmakers, would fit the bill if available. There may also be a restructure of the roles of the assistant coaches. One of the main themes to emerge from Gould’s review is the need for the club to properly establish its culture. It became apparent there isn’t a definitive DNA that defines the Dragons.

What does it mean to pull on the Red V? What are the values the wider organisation stands for? It’s likely an outside facilitator will be engaged to help define club culture from the top down.

The need for strong foundations was highlighted when the review analysed the Jack de Belin situation. The impact of the star forward’s sexual assault charges was felt right across the club, with some of his teammates’ partners having strong opinions on the matter.

That led to some awkward situations in social settings, normally an opportunity to solidify bonds within the extended Dragons family.

The cultural issue is important, given there were no red flags raised from reviewing the Dragons’ physical performance. The injury rates over the past four years have been relatively low, while all the stats suggest the players are fit and well prepared.

The Dragons haven’t much room to move salary cap wise next year, but the need to strengthen their winger stocks was identified.

The Dragons board has now gone away to consider the review.

https://www.smh.com.au/sport/nrl/re...advisor-someone-like-gus-20190921-p52tmq.html

Thanks for posting....it's all smoke and Mirrors....

 

[getsmarty]

TEAM LISTS


NRLW 24-hour warning: Round 2 v Warriors
Author
Dragons.com.au dragons.com.au
Timestamp
Sat 21 Sep 2019, 05:46 PM

St George Illawarra coach Daniel Lacey has amended his squad to 19 ahead of the Dragons NRL Holden Women's Premiership Round 2 clash against the New Zealand Warriors.

Lexi Kiriwi drops out of the team alongside front-rower Teuila Fotu-Moala, who was suspended for the season earlier this week.

Ngatokotoru Arakua starts in Fotu-Moala's place with Najvada George drafted into the 17 for her NRLW debut.

NRL Women's Premiership squad for Round 2 v New Zealand Warriors –

1. Botille Vette-Welsh – sponsored by TripADeal
2. Stephanie Mooka
3. Jessica Sergis – sponsored by Stonemasons & Landscapers (since 1970)
4. Tiana Penitani – sponsored by CBC
5. Shakiah Tungai– sponsored by Tosich Group Construction
6. Kimiora Nati – sponsored by St.George Bank
7. Maddie Studdon
17. Ngatokotoru Arakua
9. Brittany Breayley – sponsored by Westfund Health Insurance
10. Maitua Feterika
11. Kezie Apps (c) – sponsored by Kingsgrove Sports Centre
12. Shaylee Bent
13. Holli Wheeler

Interchange:
14. Keeley Davis – sponsored by EFEX
15. Takilele Katoa – sponsored by My Muscle Chef
16. Maddison Weatherall
18. Najvada George
19. Rikeya Horne
21. Aaliyah Fasavalu-Fa'amausili


https://www.dragons.com.au/news/2019/09/21/nrlw-24-hour-warning-round-2-v-warriors/

 

[getsmarty]

DRAGONS


Allgoods go public with family heartache
Author
Dragons.com.au dragons.com.au
Timestamp
Sun 22 Sep 2019, 10:04 AM

St George Illawarra front-rower Mitch Allgood and his wife Madeleine have today revealed their private family heartache involving son Jude to The Sunday Telegraph.

Earlier in 2019, Jude was diagnosed with severe sagittal craniosynostosis, a condition where the skull sutures close too early, causing problems with the growth and appearance of the brain and skull.

Given the condition's rareness and the fact many medical professionals lack experience in diagnosing craniosynostosis, the Allgoods and Jude spent months travelling between different specialists before a formal diagnosis was reached in Adelaide.

Jude was forced to undergo Cranio Vault Remodelling (CVR) surgery; a surgery which involved a craniofacial surgeon remodelling and reshaping the bones of Jude's skull to help expand the space within the vault to allow room for the brain to grow as well as restore a more natural appearing shape to his skull.

While the surgery was a success, the Allgoods will now have to travel to Adelaide for regular check-ups until Jude finishes puberty.

To help aid the financial aspects involved with Jude's surgery and ongoing costs, the Dragons held 'A Night at the Races' benefit night following their Round 21 clash against the Gold Coast Titans at St George Leagues Club which helped raise much-needed funds for the Allgoods.

In light of the Allgood's going public with Jude's condition, St George Illawarra teammate James Graham has generously decided to auction off his 400th first grade game player-worn jersey to again help aid the financial aspects of Jude's ongoing care.

"Madeleine and I want to thank everyone at the club for their ongoing support, generosity and help with Jude since he was diagnosed. The amount of love and care that our family have received has really moved us," Allgood said.

"We are extremely grateful that James (Graham) has offered to donate something so special to him for our little boy.

"I have played with a lot of good people throughout my career; Jammar is at the top of that list. He is equally selfless and passionate off the field as he is the player on it. I'm very lucky to call him my mate."

To bid on Graham's signed, player-worn 400th first grade jersey, click here.

James Graham player-worn 400th first grade jersey – auction details:
Start: Sunday, September 22 (10am)
End: Friday, September 27 (8pm)
Player-worn and signed jersey presented with gift box


https://www.dragons.com.au/news/2019/09/22/allgoods-go-public-with-family-heartache/

 

[getsmarty]

NRLW late mail: Round 2 v Warriors
Author
Dragons.com.au dragons.com.au
Timestamp
Sun 22 Sep 2019, 12:15 PM

St George Illawarra coach Daniel Lacey has finalised his team ahead of the Dragons NRL Holden Women's Premiership Round 2 clash against the New Zealand Warriors.

Kimiora Nati and Stephanie Mooka are the final two players to drop out of the team. Keeley Davis and Rikeya Horne will start at five-eighth and on the wing respectively.

Najvada George and Aaliyah Fasavalu-Fa'amausili will make their NRL Women's Premiership debuts from the interchange.

Saturday's team amendments saw Lexi Kiriwi drops out of the team alongside front-rower Teuila Fotu-Moala, who was suspended for the season last week. Ngatokotoru Arakua starts in the front row in Fotu-Moala's place.

NRL Women's Premiership team for Round 2 v New Zealand Warriors –

1. Botille Vette-Welsh – sponsored by TripADeal
19. Rikeya Horne
3. Jessica Sergis – sponsored by Stonemasons & Landscapers (since 1970)
4. Tiana Penitani – sponsored by CBC
5. Shakiah Tungai– sponsored by Tosich Group Construction
14. Keeley Davis – sponsored by EFEX
7. Maddie Studdon– sponsored by St.George Bank
17. Ngatokotoru Arakua
9. Brittany Breayley – sponsored by Westfund Health Insurance
10. Maitua Feterika
11. Kezie Apps (c) – sponsored by Kingsgrove Sports Centre
12. Shaylee Bent
13. Holli Wheeler

Interchange:
15. Takilele Katoa – sponsored by My Muscle Chef
16. Maddison Weatherall
18. Najvada George
21. Aaliyah Fasavalu-Fa'amausili


https://www.dragons.com.au/news/2019/09/22/nrlw-late-mail-round-2-v-warriors/

 

[getsmarty]

MATCH REPORT


Dragons surge past Warriors to keep NRLW title hopes alive
Author
Corey Rosser NRL.com reporter
Timestamp
Sun 22 Sep 2019, 02:53 PM

A storming comeback from St George Illawarra powered them past the New Zealand Warriors 26-6 in Auckland on Sunday to keep the Dragons' NRLW campaign alive heading into the final round.

The result means the Dragons, Roosters and Warriors head into the final round with a chance of joining the Brisbane Broncos in the grand final.

St George Illawarra will face the Roosters in a standalone clash at Leichhardt Oval on Sunday, a day after the Warriors take on the Broncos at the Sydney Cricket Ground.

The Mt Smart Stadium win - the first standalone game in the Holden Women's Premiership's short history - came at the end of a dramatic week for the Dragons, who lost prop Teuila Fotu-Moala to suspension and key half Kimiora Nati to illness in the lead-up to the trip across the Tasman.

After almost not taking the field at all in the standalone clash at Mount Smart Stadium, Maitua Feterika played a leading role in the Dragons' victory, scoring a second-half try and providing a key carry in the lead-up to another.

The Dragons were left scrambling prior to kick-off after an administration error saw Feterika mistakenly omitted from the team list, leaving them with the prospect of fielding only 16 players.

The issue was resolved five minutes before kick-off when the NRL granted permission to include her in the 17.


Match: Warriors v Dragons

Round 2 - Sunday 22nd September

Full Time

Home Team

Warriors

Scored 6 points

Away Team

Dragons

Scored 26 points
Venue: Mt Smart Stadium, Auckland

Match broadcasters:

• Nine Network
• GEM
• KAYO
• LIVE PASS

After trailing 6-0 at the break, the Dragons dominated the second stanza and scored five tries inside the final 20 minutes to register a comfortable victory.

Shaylee Bent and Tiana Penitani struck four minutes apart to hand the visitors the lead, before Feterika and Jessica Sergis gave them some breathing room.

A long-range effort from Botille Vette-Welsh put the icing on the cake for St George Illawarra, with Jillaroo Maddie Studdon adding three conversions to blow the scoreline out.

A crashing close-range run from Onjeurlina Leiataua and Apii Nicholls's conversion got the scoring started in a first half in which both teams were guilty of wasting try-scoring opportunities.

By the start of the second period the Dragons were dominating possession, and eventually found a reward when Keeley Davis sent back-rower Shaylee Bent through untouched from 10 metres out.

Penitani then found space down the left before Feterika beat everyone to a loose ball under the sticks for a third Dragons try.

The game was all but over after Sergis scored with five to go, before Vette-Welsh capped off a remarkable comeback with her individual effort.


https://www.dragons.com.au/news/201...past-warriors-to-keep-nrlw-title-hopes-alive/

 

[getsmarty]

WOMEN'S RUGBY LEAGUE


Comeback win caps off dramatic week for Dragons
Author
Corey Rosser NRL.com reporter
Timestamp
Sun 22 Sep 2019, 04:52 PM

St George Illawarra coach Daniel Lacey was full of praise for his side after they emerged from a horror week to beat the Warriors in Auckland on Sunday.

The Dragons kept their NRLW campaign alive heading into the final round of the regular season after they produced a stunning comeback in the final quarter of the match to win 26-6 in the standalone fixture played in front of a crowd of 2518 fans at Mt Smart Stadium, after trailing 6-0 with 20 minutes to play.

Before they even touched down in Auckland it had been a week full of drama for the Dragons, who lost big-name forward Teuila Fotu-Moala to a season-ending suspension and then key playmaker Kimiora Nati to illness.

Centre Stephanie Mooka also couldn't travel due to passport issues.

It only got worse on game day when an administration error resulted in prop Maitua Feterika being left off the squad list, leaving the Dragons facing the prospect of taking the field with only 16 players, before the issue was resolved five minutes before kick-off.



Match Highlights: Warriors v Dragons

"It's been one hell of a week at the Dragons … you could write a book just on this week, you really could," Lacey said.

"To get that performance, I couldn't be any prouder of that team and we are going to gain a lot of strength out of that.

"The proof is out there of what the team can do.

"I wanted them to get to the next level, they needed to run harder than they did last week [in the 14-4 loss to Brisbane]."

Lacey said despite the emotional nature of the game his side won't be happy with anything short of a grand final appearance.

A win over the Roosters in the standalone game at Leichhardt Oval on Sunday will likely be enough for the Dragons to advance to play the Broncos in the decider, while there's also a scenario where they could get through on points differential even with a loss.

"We were in this position last year … we're not just happy with that, we've got to win next week and get to that grand final and get one back on the Broncos," Lacey said.

"We go to another standalone game next week with a seven-day turnaround, we're back at home, I think everyone's fit in the room as well, so we use all those things as positives."

After being at the centre of the pre-match drama, Feterika emerged as the best forward on ground.

The one-time Kiwi Fern carried the ball 20 times for 191 metres, providing a key run in the lead-up to Tiana Penitani's try in the second half before scoring one herself.



Feterika pounces on Studdon grubber

"There were a lot of reasons for me to play hard today," Feterika told NRL.com.

"My family were all out here to watch, it felt good [to score] and I thought I did well. My attitude was just to do more and then do more again.

"It gave me some energy playing on home soil and facing some Kiwi Ferns teammates as well."

Warriors coach Luisa Avaiki admitted the pressure of playing at home may have got to some members of her side, after they gave up five tries in the final 18 minutes to blow a chance to book a place in the grand final.

"Perhaps because they just wanted to perform really well for their families it could have been added pressure that they put on themselves," Avaiki said.

"For them it was a big occasion where they wanted to perform well, and they feel a little bit disappointed by how they performed.

"They'll feel hurt now going away from that knowing that … they know they could have been better."




https://www.dragons.com.au/news/2019/09/22/comeback-win-caps-off-dramatic-week-for-dragons/

 

[getsmarty]

DRAGONS


Stat attack: NRLW Round 2 v Warriors
Author
Dragons.com.au dragons.com.au
Timestamp
Mon 23 Sep 2019, 03:26 PM

A second-half blitz saw the Dragons win their first game of the NRLW season against a motivated Warriors outfit playing on their home ground for the first time. Take a look at the impressive numbers produced by the team.

The breakdown

The Dragons shrugged off a shaky start to blow the Warriors off the park in the second stanza showcasing what their star-studded team is capable of doing when the cogs are turning in unison.

Attack – The Dragons dominated the Warriors in all offensive areas on Sunday, contributing to their second half rampage. The Dragons combined for an impressive 1,400 total run metres while the Warriors could only manage 797.

Long range strikes became a regular occurrence for the Dragons with nine line breaks in the match. The Dragons also produced 12 offloads while keeping the Warriors to zero, and busted a total of 44 tackles.

Defence – For all the highlights the Dragons produced in attack, their defence was also just as lethal.

Dragons coach Daniel Lacey's team produced a near flawless defensive display, with zero ineffective tackles compared to the Warriors (19).

The Warriors were forced to do more defending (257 tackles) than the Dragons (197 tackles), but the Red V were much more clinical with a tackle efficiency of 90.8 per cent (20 misses).

Discipline – Errors and mistakes were still an issue for the Dragons on Sunday despite their heroics taking centre stage. The Dragons produced nine errors to the Warriors' five. They also gave away five penalties while receiving only three in return.

This was reflected in their completion rate (73 per cent) compared to the Warriors' 83 per cent. If the Dragons can reduce their errors, they will be a force to be reckoned with.



NRLW highlights: Round 2 v Warriors

Star performance
Maitua Feterika

Rampaging Dragons prop Maitua Feterika came into the match with a point to prove, with her star front-row partner Teuila Fotu-Moala missing due to suspension.

Feterika stepped up and led from the front, showcasing her passion for rugby league and her importance in the Dragons' premiership dream.

Feterika was the second-highest metre eater in the game with 191 running metres from 20 carries. She also produced a game-high 63 post contact metres, and snagged one try, one line break, two tackle breaks and made 15 tackles.

Important numbers

26 – The number of unanswered points the Dragons scored in the second half to blow the Warriors off the part after trailing 6-0 at half-time. The five-try rampage was made more impressive when you consider the women play 30-minute halves as opposed to 40.

10 – The number of Dragons players to finish with a tackle efficiency of over 93 per cent. Six of those players finished without a single miss or ineffective tackle while Brittany Breayley missed just one tackle from 37 attempts. The Dragons' total team tackle efficiency was 90.8 per cent.


https://www.dragons.com.au/news/2019/09/23/stat-attack-nrlw-round-2-v-warriors/

 

[getsmarty]

MATCH PREVIEW


NRLW Dragons v Roosters: Centres clash sizzles; Pressure on Sims and co
Author
Alicia Newton NRLW Chief Reporter
Timestamp
Mon 23 Sep 2019, 01:25 PM

St George Illawarra Dragons and Sydney Roosters face off in a final-round clash at Leichhardt Oval that could dictate the final placings ahead of the 2019 Holden Women's Premiership grand final.

While all eyes will be on the Broncos-Warriors result a night earlier, a Broncos victory will leave the Dragons and Roosters battling it out for a spot in the decider.

If the Warriors defeat the Broncos then only the Dragons can advance on for-and-against with a victory over the Tricolours.

The Roosters are in a similar position to last season, where they relied on results to go their way before finally clicking into gear in the final round and advancing on points differential.

A stand-alone fixture between two traditional clubs sets up the perfect opportunity to let the regular season run its course and bring the second NRLW season to a grandstand finish.



Every NRLW try from Round 2

The Rundown
Key match-up
A mouth-watering clash between the two incumbent NSW centres awaits with Jess Sergis and Isabelle Kelly going toe-to-toe in a battle for the ages. Two of the rising stars of the women's game, both sides have relied heavily on these two strike players over the past fortnight and it's likely headed the same way at Leichhardt Oval on Sunday. Sergis had 14 carries against the Warriors, while Kelly had 11 runs in a badly beaten Roosters outfit last start.

For the Dragons to win
Like last week but holding the ball and completing their sets will go a long way. The Dragons could've become frustrated by their chances against the Warriors but held their nerve and clicked into gear. If they can hold the Roosters in the opening 40 minutes their final third should be too strong with the calibre of players at their disposal.



Match Highlights: Broncos v Roosters

For the Roosters to win
They need more output from their forward pack, particularly experienced props Ruan Sims and Bec Young. Between the pair, Vanessa Foliaki and Aliti Nomace, the quartet have managed just 29 runs collectively across two games – a statistic way too low in any game. Sims (two runs for 14 metres) and Foliaki (three runs for 21 metres) struggled to set a platform last week against the Broncos and will need to turn things around. If they can stand up to a big Dragons pack then their talented outside backs should get a much better to chance to shine in open space.

Stat Attack
The Dragons and Roosters are dominating the area of second-phase play with offloads. Dragons pair Tiana Penitani and Kezie Apps lead the competition with four apiece, while Roosters trio Hannah Southwell, Karina Brown and Kirra Dibb are among the top six with two each.

And another thing ...
A total of 15 players who represented NSW in women's Holden State of Origin will clash on Sunday. The Roosters will field seven from the successful Blues side, while the Dragons have eight players in their line-up. Retired hooker Kylie Hilder and Millie Boyle (Broncos) are the only two players missing.


https://www.dragons.com.au/news/201...entres-clash-sizzles-pressure-on-sims-and-co/

 

[getsmarty]

Norman named as Ken Stephens Medal finalist
Author
NRL Media Release NRL Media
Timestamp
Mon 23 Sep 2019, 04:15 PM

Sia Soliola (Raiders), Corey Norman (Dragons), Agnatius Paasi (Warriors) and Josh Aloiai (Tigers) have been announced as the four finalists vying for this year’s Ken Stephen Medal.

Sia, Agnatius and Josh were confirmed as finalists by a panel of judges from across the game, whilst Corey was selected via an NRL.com fan poll.

NRL Head of Government and Community Relations, Jaymes Boland-Rudder congratulated the finalists on an outstanding year off the field, contributing to various community programs.

“Our four finalists – and all of our nominees – have chosen different community activities to engage in and support throughout the year and they should all feel very proud of their efforts to increase positive community interaction and engagement,” Mr Boland-Rudder said.

“Our players join thousands of coaches, administrators, referees and volunteers each year in supporting a multitude of community and wellbeing programs, utilising rugby league’s voice for good.

“A sense of community and inclusiveness is at the core of our game and I’m delighted to see some of the NRL’s biggest names nominated as finalists for this year’s Ken Stephen Medal.”

The 2019 Ken Stephen Medal will be awarded and celebrated on Grand Final day, ahead of the NRL Telstra Premiership Grand Final.

This year marks the 31st occasion for the Ken Stephen Medal – an award recognising the efforts of an NRL player who has not only achieved on the field, but has committed time off the field to community projects.

For a full list of nominees and an overview of finalists and their community work, click here.

The 2019 Ken Stephen Medal is proudly supported by wealth, property and wellbeing consultancy, One Solutions.


https://www.dragons.com.au/news/2019/09/23/norman-named-as-ken-stephens-medal-finalist/

 

[getsmarty]

NRL COMMUNITY


Charity champions named 2019 Ken Stephen Medal finalists
Author
Troy Whittaker NRL.com Reporter
Timestamp
Mon 23 Sep 2019, 04:15 PM

Corey Norman, Sia Soliola, Josh Aloiai and Agnatius Paasi have been announced as the 2019 Ken Stephen Medal finalists for their exceptional community work.

With 15 players initially nominated for the award, fans were able to choose one finalist via a poll on NRL.com. Norman earned the honour after almost 19,000 votes were cast over two weeks.

An expert panel selected the other three candidates and will ultimately decide the winner, who will receive the medal during the grand final pre-game show on October 6.

Norman volunteers with the Pass It On Clothing service for the homeless in Sydney's Martin Place most weeks. He helps distribute garments to those in need and has formed genuine relationships with the attendees.

The Queensland Origin five-eighth regularly goes beyond his club commitments, including working with students in the NRL School to Work program and at-risk youths.

Canberra veteran Soliola has willingly participated in a range of positive initiatives this year such as Shave for a Cure, McHappy Day, the Vinnies CEO Sleepout and NRL school holiday clinics.

Canberra Raiders veteran Sia Soliola. Gregg Porteous/NRL Photos
As well as being an outstanding advocate for several charitable organisations, Soliola lends a hand at the Early Morning Centre's soup kitchen every Monday to feed the less fortunate - even if he played the previous day.

Wests Tigers forward Aloiai has devoted countless hours to visiting local hospitals and brightening the lives of people doing it tough.

Aloiai is an ambassador for Feel the Magic, an organisation which comforts bereaved kids who have lost a loved one, plus the Voice Against Violence and Celebrating Differences programs.

Warriors prop Agnatius Paasi. Nathan Hopkins/NRL Photos
A gentle giant who is fantastic with children, Warriors prop Paasi is always keen to contribute in any way he can.

Paasi inspired the club's regular visits to Auckland soup kitchens in 2019 and linked with KidsCan to provide basic food items, warm raincoats, shoes, socks and health care items to children in low socio-economic areas.

He recently shaved off his signature locks to raise money for the Leukaemia and Blood Foundation and assists with facilitating the Warriors' Mental Wealth program to grassroots clubs.


https://www.dragons.com.au/news/2019/09/23/charity-champions-named-2019-ken-stephen-medal-finalists/

 

[getsmarty]

TEAM LISTS


NRLW team: Round 3 v Sydney Roosters
Author
Dragons.com.au dragons.com.au
Timestamp
Tue 24 Sep 2019, 04:00 PM

St George Illawarra Women's Premiership coach Daniel Lacey has named a 20-woman squad ahead of the Dragons' Round 3 clash against the Sydney Roosters at Leichhardt Oval on Sunday, September 29.

The game will kick-off at 1:15pm in what is the first-ever standalone NRL Holden Women's Premiership fixture in Sydney.


Match: Dragons v Roosters

Round 3 - Sunday 29th September

1:15pm

Home Team

Dragons

2nd Position


Away Team

Roosters

4th Position

Venue: Leichhardt Oval, Sydney

Match broadcasters:

• Nine Network
• Foxtel
• GEM
• KAYO
• LIVE PASS

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Stephanie Mooka has been named in the 17 with Rikeya Horne reverting to the bench in place of reserves-listed forward Aaliyah Fasavalu-Fa'amausili.

The Dragons have only named 20 players due to the unavailability of Teuila Fotu-Moala (suspension) and Kimiora Nati (illness).

To buy tickets, go to https://tickets.nrl.com/

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NRL Women's Premiership squad for Round 3 v Sydney Roosters –

1. Botille Vette-Welsh – sponsored by TripADeal
2. Stephanie Mooka
3. Jessica Sergis – sponsored by Stonemasons & Landscapers (since 1970)
4. Tiana Penitani – sponsored by St.George Bank
5. Shakiah Tungai– sponsored by Tosich Group Construction
6. Keeley Davis – sponsored by EFEX
7. Maddie Studdon
8. Ngatokotoru Arakua
9. Brittany Breayley – sponsored by Westfund Health Insurance
10. Maitua Feterika
11. Kezie Apps (c) – sponsored by Kingsgrove Sports Centre
12. Shaylee Bent
13. Holli Wheeler

Interchange:
14. Rikeya Horne – sponsored by CBC
15. Takilele Katoa – sponsored by My Muscle Chef
16. Maddison Weatherall
17. Najvada George
18. Sarah Togatuki
19. Aaliyah Fasavalu-Fa'amausili
20. Lexi Kiriwi


https://www.dragons.com.au/news/2019/09/24/nrlw-team-round-3-v-roosters/

 

[getsmarty]

Behind NRLW enemy lines: Round 3 v Sydney Roosters
Author
Dragons.com.au dragons.com.au
Timestamp
Tue 24 Sep 2019, 04:33 PM

Sydney Roosters NRLW Head Coach Rick Stone has named his 21-player squad ahead of Sunday's clash with the St George Illawarra Dragons at Leichhardt Oval.

Roosters captain Simaima Taufa will watch on from the sidelines after suffering an ankle injury in their last start loss to the Brisbane Broncos. Isabelle Kelly will captain the side in her absence which also features an NRLW debutant in the centres (Bobbi Law)

Sydney Roosters squad: Round 3 v St George Illawarra Dragons
1. Corban McGregor
2. Karina Brown
3. Bobbi Law
4. Isabelle Kelly (c)
5. Kiana Takairangi
6. Kirra Dibb
7. Melanie Howard
8. Ruan Sims
9. Nita Maynard
10. Aliti Namoce
11. Tallisha Harden
12. Hannah Southwell
13. Zahara Temara
INTERCHANGE
14. Quincy Dodd
15. Jasmin Allende
16. Vanessa Foliaki
17. Caitlan Johnston
RESERVES
18. Shanice Parker
19. Rebecca Young
20. Simone Smith
21. Shontelle Stowers


https://www.dragons.com.au/news/2019/09/24/behind-nrlw-enemy-lines-round-3-v-sydney-roosters/

 

[getsmarty]

Sorry Mary, it's time to go



Paddy new author
Roar Rookie
16 hours ago



In 2019 the team conceded the most points in a season in St George Illawarra history (575), and scored the second fewest (427), and achieved the worst differential.

The problems underlying this failure are longstanding. McGregor has repeatedly demonstrated conservative management of his team and squad, failed to develop players and refused to accept responsibility for his errors or learn from his mistakes.

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The current board also failing. In addition to overseeing the club’s worst finish in 98 years, the club has managed the worst ever crowds at Wollongong (5578 versus Melb on 4 June 2019) and Kogarah (6532 v Titans on 10 August). The club is demoralised, their football is terrible, and the fans are either revolting or uninterested.

Dragons’ ladder finishes under McGregor: 2014 (11th), 2015 (eighth), 2016 (11th), 2017 (ninth), 2018 (seventh) and 2019 (15th).

McGregor’s results make for poor reading. Between 2014 and 2019, he has a highest finish of seventh and a lowest of 15th. In a 16-team competition, with a well regulated salary cap, this is an objective failure.

All else being equal teams should finish around eighth or ninth most of the time, sometimes higher, sometimes lower. McGregor’s teams have finished higher than the median just once in six years.

In addition, in 2012 and 2013 as reserve grade coach, he led teams to sixth and ninth.

2019 has been the worst year of McGregor’s long tenure, in addition to being the Dragons’ worst since their grading in 1921.


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Sympathetic commentary has sought reasons including the loss of Jack de Belin and the injury to Gareth Widdop. Losing quality players is an issue, but not one unique to the Dragons.

The Storm performed without Cooper Cronk, and the Dragons won four of their first six without de Belin. The problems at the Dragons are deeper, and will not be solved with McGregor at the helm.

Gareth Widdop and Paul McGregor (AAP Image/Michael Chambers)

End of season fade-outs
Setting aside 2014 (McGregor’s first half-season), the Dragons have run out of puff mid-way through every year. In 2015 they did not win between Rounds 12 and 21. In 2016, they registered just two wins after Round 16. In 2017, they won four after Round 13. In 2018 it was just three wins after Round 16.

In 2019, after re-signing McGregor for a further two years, the Dragons managed just four wins after Round 6. Two of these were against the atrocious Titans, one against the 14th-placed Cowboys, and one against the then last-placed Bulldogs.

McGregor has not been able to identify or fix these problems. The flip side to this is that for the last three years the Dragons have started the season well.

Rumour has it that the Dragons board is determined not to admit that they erred in re-signing McGregor so soon, and have set him an early 2020 test that he needs to pass in order to retain his position. History suggests he will pass this test, then fade again.

Inability to nurture up and coming talent
In 2016, the Dragons reserve grade side won the premiership and interstate cup under Jason Demetriou. Demetriou was moved on the next year. In 2019 the Dragons reserve grade side is in the preliminary final under Matt Head. There are reports he will be sacked at the end of the year.


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The Dragons’ development systems are full of talent that does not get a look into McGregor’s teams, and either atrophies or looks for opportunities elsewhere.

For example Lachlan Timm leads the reserve grade competition for runs, decoy runs, metres, post contact metres and tackles. McGregor could not find a place for him in his top 21 all year, nor explain to fans why.

Dragons coach Paul McGregor needs to shake his team selections up. (AAP Image/Michael Chambers)

Jackson Ford, who just trailed Timm in numerous categories, was given a start in Round 21 with the season long gone. Jason Saab was handed a jersey in Round 19. Zac Lomax was demoted to reserve grade after starring at the back end of 2018. Reuben Garrick, starved of opportunities, fled to Manly where he starred.

Pat Herbert found a start at the Warriors. Josh Kerr, Mikaele Ravilawa, Jai Field, Taane Milne were and are ignored. Coach favourites Josh McCrone, Jeremy Latimore, Euan Aitken, Tim Lafai and others have been automatic selections, and opportunities presented to journeymen like Lachlan Maranta and Patrick Faufusi.

This phenomenon is not new. As early as 2016 articles about this coaching technique destroying the Dragons were written after McGregor “left the great red and white hope and off-load machine, Luciano Leilua, on the bench” in a crucial game until the team was 30 points down and the season done.

The highly talented Leilua remains a fringe first grader in 2019. In 2017, Brendan Bradford asked whether it was “time for McGregor to start playing some of the young-guns the Dragons have in their ranks?” McGregor circa 2019 appears to disagree still.

Sympathetic commentators point out that squad deficiencies are not McGregor’s fault. Apart from the fact that McGregor himself says he ‘has the roster he wants’, those same commentators would do well to acknowledge that McGregor lost responsibility for recruitment and retention after a disastrous 2016 season at the recommendation of Mark Coyne and the board.