We Need This Man: It's Time For Singo And
The Central Coast Club
By ANDREW JOHNS
SUNDAY TELEGRAPH - 6/6/2004
It’s time! I can’t remember whose political slogan that was a few years
back but the NRL hierarchy should apply it to the code’s expansion
debate.
I’m in favour of another team, or even another two, in the competition.
Get John Singleton involved again. I’m a big fan of the bloke.
Singo likes a beer, loves a punt, is passionate about our game and has
the financial clout to put his money where his mouth is.
The only thing I don’t like about him is he is not a Newcastle Knights
man.
His presence on the Central Coast would be a massive boost for the area.
They have a great stadium and, despite their lukewarm response to the
Northern Eagles, I’m certain they would back their own side to the hilt
if given the chance.
The NRL shouldn’t even be contemplating turning its back on his bid to
bring a new side in there.
And if the Gold Coast bid is as good as they say it is, we should not
be frightened to make a move there as well.
The Gold Coast is no longer a haven for retirees and holiday makers.
From what I read, it is one of the fastest growing areas in the country
and should not be ignored.
I remember when the Knights were first admitted into the old ARL
competition. It was huge here and has been ever since.
It generated so much good publicity for the game and has been great for
the city.
I’m sure it would have the same effect in those other areas.
What is often debated whenever expansion comesup is whether the game
has the players to sustain growth.
Well, consider the quality of the team I have picked.
With these players, a team would take some stopping for the title. Now,
I’m not suggesting for one minute a new club, or any club for that
matter, would be capable of assembling a team like that.
But as of Friday afternoon, every one of those players was off contract
with their respective clubs for next season. Most are negotiating now
and the majority will more than likely stay where they are. But there
is no question in my mind that there are enough talented players
running around for an extra team or two.
The salary cap has played its part in a positive argument for expansion.
Over a period of time, the talent has been spread around to the point
where the competition has probably never been more even because of the
cap.
The stronger the club, the more difficult it is each sea son to hang on
to all your players.
In this day and age, it will be rare for a leading club not to lose at
least one marquee player or maybe more each season to remain under the
salary cap.
It’s biting here at Newcastle and has been for a couple of years. At
most clubs, it’s no different.
Having spoken to Dragons coach Nathan Brown in the last few days, I
know his club is feeling the pres sure of trying to fit everyone in as
well.
It really is an impossible juggling act.
What it does is give newly cashed-up clubs like the Central Coast or
Gold Coast an opportunity to sign star players.
MY TEAM
Of the 120 players still on the market I’ve come up with a team that I
think would give any side a shake:
1 Darren Lockyer
2limanaTahu
3 Brent Tate
4 Joel Monaghan
5 Amos Roberts
6 Kurt Gidley
7 Matt Orlord
13 Luke Ricketson
12 Ben Kennedy
11 Gorden Talus
10 Jason Ryles
9 Mark Riddell
8 Steve Price
Bench:
Brent Kite
Ruben Wiki
Petero Civoniceva
Ben Homby
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