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Dragons Freeze Contracts as Flanagan Faces Intensifying Pressure After 0-5 Start

Friday’s game against Manly is being framed as a test of the coach’s grip on the job.

Overview

  • Following Saturday's 32-0 home loss to the Cowboys, St George Illawarra fell to 0-5 with a club‑record nine straight defeats across two seasons.
  • Coach Shane Flanagan remains in charge, though prominent commentators say he could be sacked within weeks if results do not improve, with Manly up next on Friday in Wollongong.
  • Club sources say a recruitment committee led by CEO Tim Watsford has paused all talks with off‑contract players, including a planned one‑year extension for Damien Cook.
  • Team‑list calls loom, with Kyle Flanagan expected back in the halves as scrutiny grows on veterans Clint Gutherson, Cook and Valentine Holmes after form concerns.
  • Analysts argue the slide reflects deeper roster and identity problems tied to recent veteran signings and long‑term recruitment misses, with Dean Young mentioned as a possible successor if a change is made.