Get ready for a thrilling NRL season in 2026, where the St George Illawarra Dragons are making headlines! But here's a controversial take that has everyone talking: Shane Flanagan, the Dragons' coach, boldly stated that his team won't be winning the premiership this year. This declaration has sparked a heated debate, with NRL legend Billy Slater leading the charge.
In an exclusive interview, Slater expressed his disbelief at Flanagan's comments, made before the season even began in Vegas. He believes these words could have a profound psychological impact on the team's mindset.
Flanagan's assessment, made to Nine's Danny Weidler, was a surprising one. He doubled down on his stance, emphasizing the importance of managing expectations for his players. But here's the twist: Flanagan's goal is to push the Dragons into the top eight, aiming for their first finals campaign in eight years.
Slater, however, sees this as a potential pitfall. He questions the motive behind such a statement, especially when the team has already shown promise in their opening game against the Bulldogs, pushing them to golden point in a thrilling Vegas encounter.
"The Dragons might just surprise everyone," Slater said, highlighting the team's potential and the competitive spirit they've displayed.
But here's the part most people miss: Flanagan's honesty might be a double-edged sword. While he recognizes the mental aspect of the game, his comments could inadvertently affect his team's confidence.
Slater concludes by praising Flanagan's awareness of the potential impact, but he still stands by his initial reaction.
So, what do you think? Is Flanagan's honesty refreshing, or does it undermine the team's spirit? Join the discussion and let us know your thoughts in the comments! The NRL season is just getting started, and the drama is already unfolding.
