The trajectory of the St George Illawarra Dragons may appear more promising compared to a year ago when Anthony Griffin’s tenure was under scrutiny, but the club’s current position isn’t without its challenges.
Thursday night’s Round 12 opener against the Canterbury Bulldogs showcased the Dragons’ vulnerability, as they squandered a 12-6 halftime lead to suffer a staggering 44-12 defeat. This dramatic collapse reflects a concerning trend of mental fragility within the team.
The Bulldogs, who hadn’t scored over 40 points in a game since mid-2016 prior to Round 12, capitalized on the Dragons’ second-half struggles, underscoring the team’s wavering focus and resolve.
The absence of Jack Bird, who sustained an injury during the match, further compounded the Dragons’ woes. While initial fears of a serious ankle injury were allayed, Bird’s setback disrupted the team’s cohesion, forcing positional adjustments.
Coach Shane Flanagan lamented his team’s performance, labeling them as “their own worst enemy” due to lapses in possession and discipline.
This season, the Dragons have encountered multiple instances of capitulation under pressure, leading to demoralizing defeats. Despite glimpses of promise, such as Zac Lomax’s positional switch and notable signings, inconsistency and mental lapses persist.
While the team’s youthfulness partly explains these lapses, rectifying their mental resilience remains a formidable challenge for Flanagan. However, addressing this issue could see the Dragons emerge as genuine contenders for the finals—a scenario scarcely imaginable at the season’s outset.
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