Commission backs Gallop over GF affair
Steve Jancetic AAP Tue, Oct 04, 2011 - 6:56 PM
Incoming NRL commission chairman John Grant has backed chief executive David Gallop's handling of the tense post-grand final exchanges with Manly's Stewart brothers.
Gallop and both Glenn and Brett Stewart took part in prolonged discussions as they shook hands during the presentation ceremony after Manly's 24-12 grand final win on Sunday.
It was their first meeting with the NRL boss since Brett was slapped with a four-game ban at the start of the 2009season for drunken behaviour at the club's season launch.
While none of the involved parties have revealed what was said, there is speculation Brett demanded an apology from Gallop for what he believed was unjust punishment.
It was the start of a horror two-year period in which Brett was forced to defend a sexual assault charge while a serious knee injury also threatened his playing future.
While he was reluctant to enter into the debate, Grant - in response to a number of interview requests - backed Gallop's actions.
"The commission fully supports the dignified manner in which NRL CEO David Gallop conducted himself during the grand final day presentation and in the days that have followed," Grant said.
"There are clearly appropriate and inappropriate times to raise issues of conflict, just as there is a responsibility on club administrators to provide leadership to their personnel.
"The commission is yet to assume stewardship of the game, but it will continue to ensure players and clubs recognise the importance of protecting the image of rugby league."
Speaking after the grand final, Glenn Stewart suggested that he and his brother were ready to move on from the feud.
"It's very special, probably the final chapter and everything's back to where it was and moving on and normal life's good and footy's going well so I can't complain," he said on Sunday night.
Grant said he would not make any further comment on the matter, leaving open the question of whether the two parties would be brought together for conciliatory discussions ahead of next season.
