St George Illawarra Dragons face sharp criticism from former players Luke Keary and James Graham following the club’s mutual parting with coach Shane Flanagan. The duo voiced their concerns on The Bye Round Podcast, highlighting the joint venture’s mishandling of the dismissal after an 11-match winless streak dating back to the 2025 season.
Podcast Hosts Target Club Leadership
Dragons chairman Andrew Lancaster and CEO Tim Watsford addressed the media in an impromptu press conference, announcing the coach’s departure. Keary described the situation bluntly: “This club is a mess. There’s no other way to explain it, and I don’t think this tough run is over.”
He further criticized the press conference, stating it “reeked of just … crap” and focused on attacking media coverage rather than addressing core issues.
Media Blame Draws Fire
Lancaster pointed fingers at mainstream media for negative coverage, claiming fans deserved better. Keary challenged this: “That presser was to have a go at people in the media… Well go on, say what you think has been poor.”
Graham, who played 51 games for the Dragons, defended the coverage: “No one has been unfair. Nobody has been unfair in their coverage. You know what would be a disservice to them [the fans]? To polish this turd.” He dismissed talk of positives like the new Centre of Excellence, adding, “No listener, no viewer wants to hear that. Stop dodging the question.”
Uncertainty Over Interim Coach
Keary questioned the lack of an immediate interim appointment, with assistants Dean Young and Michael Ennis as frontrunners and Ben Hornby also linked. Graham suggested internal divisions: “The translation is, there’s two sides that need to make a decision, and they can’t agree. One wants Ennis and one doesn’t, one wants Young and one doesn’t.”
He noted the club might select a compromise like former Dragons great Mark ‘Piggy’ Riddell. An interim coach announcement is expected tomorrow.
The players aim to reverse fortunes in the upcoming ANZAC Day clash against the Sydney Roosters this weekend.
