The author of the article is fast getting a reputation for trying to stir things up. Unfortunately, by seeking controversy,he sometimes fogets to tell the whole story.
I think its worth pointing out that the Dragons have been shedding players for the last two seasons after previously having a huge cap - the Joint Venture rules allowed for this. But it had a sunshine clause and time has run out. By 2003, they must adhere to the $3.25MIL cap.
They have to let go of two morefirst grade players to make the cut, namely Hookey and Roberts. The alternative is that the players will have to accept a new smaller deal.
The club and the players are trying to sort it out. But Hookey wants to play centrewhere Gasnier and Timmins are and Roberts has some competition from lower grade fullback Reece Simmonds for his spot, it wouldn't surprise me to see both of them go rather than accept a pay cut.
The FACT is, Saints have a clear conscience.
Unfortunately, the price for this has been a culling of players at the club like I've never seen before.