The Good, Bad, and Ugly of NRL Round 3
Matty Johns Identifies Key Factor Behind Wests Tigers’ Strong Start
It’s hard not to be impressed by the Wests Tigers’ start to the season. After three consecutive wooden spoons, Benji Marshall’s side has won two straight games and sits fourth on the ladder—an unfamiliar position for a team that hasn’t played finals football in 14 years.
Sure, those wins came against Parramatta and the Dolphins, teams currently sitting at the bottom of the table. But it’s the way the Tigers are playing that’s giving fans hope. Matty Johns believes that the Tigers are most dangerous when they abandon structured play and simply let the game flow.
“During that first game and a half, they were setting everything up,” Johns explained. “But when they just let Terrell (May) roll forward and keep it simple, they look fantastic. They’re at their best when they play north-south and don’t overthink it.”
Manly CEO Mestrov Takes a Pragmatic Approach to DCE’s Future
Since taking over as CEO, Tony Mestrov has earned a reputation as a firm but fair decision-maker. He oversaw Des Hasler’s exit, facilitated Josh Schuster’s departure, and managed the departure of Scott and Kristie Fulton. He also resisted pressure last year to extend coach Anthony Seibold’s contract until after the 2024 season began, eventually granting him a new deal but making him work for it.
Now, Mestrov faces another delicate situation—deciding Daly Cherry-Evans’ future. The veteran halfback’s plans beyond this season remain unclear, and while DCE is keeping his intentions private, Mestrov is equally tight-lipped.
Although Mestrov greatly respects Cherry-Evans’ contributions, he won’t let sentiment dictate this decision. Even as critics like Andrew Johns express frustration over the club’s negotiation tactics, Mestrov remains unmoved. If necessary, he is prepared to present a “take it or leave it” offer.
Brandon Smith’s Future Clouded Despite Rabbitohs Deal
Brandon Smith is as unpredictable off the field as he is on it. The Kiwi star has signed with South Sydney for the 2026 and 2027 seasons, but speculation is rife that he could leave the Roosters much sooner—possibly before the June 30 transfer deadline.
Smith is currently recovering from a serious knee injury, and while James Graham, his close friend and podcast co-host, doubts an early move is likely, others aren’t so sure.
“Brandon just wants to be loved,” Graham told Triple M. “If the Roosters told him to go, he’d go. But I don’t see it happening. Why would the Roosters strengthen Souths’ squad?”
Gorden Tallis, however, believes the situation could change depending on the Roosters’ form over the next six weeks.
“If the wheels fall off, they might decide to let him go,” Tallis speculated. “But with the ‘Book of Feuds’ between the clubs, it’s hard to imagine the Roosters giving Souths an advantage by letting Smith go early.”
While a mid-season move seems unlikely, the possibility can’t be completely ruled out—especially if there’s a strong financial incentive for the Roosters.
