Better than that woosy’s game, Gay F L, this definitely is…and I’m not referring to our Agony Angel Woosy Balaska…she’s far tougher than any players in Gay F L.
Most AFL players would be no match for my boy Cleedus…in fact, I believe he could take on the entire West Coast Eagles without breaking a sweat!
AFL needs to return to its former glory. Soccer is becoming alarmingly close to overshadowing it as a more challenging sport!
Anyway, here’s what’s happening in the NRL…the most rugged of sports.
Big changes are anticipated for the Wests Tigers, as long-time players Bryce Gibbs and Liam Fulton are free to negotiate with other clubs, and veteran prop Todd Payten is rumored to be considering retirement.
The intriguing developments at Concord are at the forefront of an energetic recruitment phase that will potentially see Darius Boyd, Kade Snowden, and possibly Clint Newton don Newcastle Knights colors next season. Although Wests Tigers chief executive Stephen Humphreys has refrained from commenting, insiders at the club have verified that Gibbs and Fulton have been allowed to converse with rival clubs as the joint venture aims to secure emerging forwards Aaron Woods, Andrew Fifita, and Matt Groat.
With a year remaining on their contracts, both Gibbs and Fulton’s departures would create salary cap flexibility for the Tigers not only to maintain their emerging talents but also to finalize a contract with Melbourne Storm superstar Adam Blair. After struggling with injuries for the last 18 months, Payten is contemplating retiring a year earlier than planned. Gibbs and Fulton’s agent has reportedly initiated discussions with Cronulla, who are also engaging in early talks with Ben Ross as they prepare for life post-Snowden and Luke Douglas, who is heading to Gold Coast Titans.
The Sharks have made significant advances to acquire Woods, but Wests are nearing a deal to re-sign the 20-year-old local junior. They have also opted to extend Fifita’s contract for an additional year.
Here’s the latest news from the clubs:
Newcastle Knights
Snowden’s signature is nearly a given, as the prop is eager to return home. The newly capped Kangaroos prop has spent two weekends in Newcastle recently, the latest visit occurring after last Friday’s Test. Surprisingly, negotiations are taking place to bring back beloved figures Clint Newton and Danny Buderus. Buderus’s return might complicate matters with current rake Isaac de Gois, who is considering a substantial offer to head back to Cronulla.
Gold Coast Titans
Odds are high that Beau Champion will join Jamal Idris, Luke Douglas, and Aidan Sezer on the holiday strip in 2012, along with Roosters star Nate Myles. The Titans are also seeking a new hooker to succeed Warriors-bound Nathan Friend. Roosters utility Anthony Watts or Panthers rake Masada Iosefa might be potential candidates.
Cronulla
Faced with a vacant front row for 2012, the Sharks are on the hunt for replacements in Gibbs, Ross, and also Trent Waterhouse, who will conclude his career at Penrith this season. Despite being under contract for another year with Parramatta, Justin Poore could also be in contention, as he’s a South Coast local who might welcome the opportunity.a shorter commute to Woolooware.
Parramatta
There’s a quiet confidence among officials that they can manage to outsmart Manly and secure the in-demand teen Will Hopoate, beating the Bulldogs to his signature. Additionally, there’s an effort underway to bring David Williams back home, as he is one of many Eels juniors currently playing elsewhere. Following the substantial investment made in Chris Sandow, coach Stephen Kearney is seeking further support for the scrumbase, with Ben Roberts firmly in consideration. The retirement of Paul Whatuira last week will assist their efforts.
South Sydney
With the departure of Sandow shaking things up, Souths are now on the hunt for a new halves combination, as John Sutton is set to move back to the back-row under Michael Maguire for next year. Another player familiar with Maguire, Brett Finch, has informed friends that he will only return to the NRL if he is paired with an established half, and the out-of-favor Raiders’ Matt Orford has a close relationship with the former Wigan coach.
There are also reports that the Rabbitohs have inquired about James Maloney, but New Zealand will likely exercise their option to retain the playmaker in Auckland, given that Brett Seymour’s contract will end this year. Although Souths have faced criticism for re-signing Sutton, they managed to keep him at a low cost under the salary cap, thanks to the long-service player discount being applied.
Sydney Roosters
The feather duster is poised over Anthony Minichiello, Mark Riddell, Phil Graham, along with Myles and Watts. If they were to leave, it would pave the way for a last-minute attempt to acquire Blair, who has yet to formally sign with Wests, despite reports indicating that a deal is in place. Veteran prop Jason Ryles has a one-year option that will be activated based on a certain number of games played, but don’t expect coach Brian Smith to find himself in another Kirk Reynoldson standoff. He and Ryles share a close bond.
by Buford Balony
