Tim Sheens, the NRL coach for Wests Tigers, refutes the notion that the club’s unexpected decision to allow Mitch Brown to join Canterbury Bulldogs has left them lacking in fullback alternatives.
Currently, Tom Humble and Tim Moltzen are the sole specialist No.1 players at Wests Tigers.
After stepping in for Tedesco, Humble delivered a solid performance, although he has only accumulated six first-grade appearances from his time at Parramatta.
Following Robert Lui’s exit to North Queensland, Sheens has already designated Moltzen as his primary halfback for the upcoming season.
Nonetheless, the experienced coach rejected claims that losing the adaptable Brown—who served at fullback, centre, and on the wing during his two years with the team—would obstruct his squad’s advancement.
“I don’t think it has left us thin at all,” Sheens asserted on Wednesday.
“Joel Reddy can play there, and so can Beau Ryan. I have several youngsters who could fill that role, and I can also shift Moltzen back there if necessary.”
Brown expressed his anger at being passed over by Sheens for the Tigers’ NRL season opener at Leichhardt, leading him to request a transfer.
Tigers officials dismissed claims that a meeting with NRL salary cap chief Ian Schubert last Friday played any part in the decision to let Brown go. Orr disclosed that the club attempted to persuade him to stay on Monday after Tedesco was diagnosed with a torn anterior cruciate ligament.
“There was some dialogue but, in Mitch’s mind, he was gone,” Orr mentioned.
“He wanted to join the Bulldogs and try to secure a position in their starting line-up.”
His goal is to play consistently, with a focus on earning a permanent spot at left centre, which is an opportunity offered by the Bulldogs.
Canterbury coach Des Hasler expressed his pleasure at securing Brown’s signing, suggesting that the Tigers may come to regret their decision to let him go.
“He adds a bit of depth,” Hasler remarked on Wednesday.
“The events of last weekend demonstrated that depth is crucial, given the long-term injuries that emerged from the games.”
“Interestingly, the Tigers might wish they had Mitch Brown back now, but that’s just how things unfold at times.”
by Buford Balony
