Ennis’s Impact Fuels Dragons’ New Attack Ahead of Las Vegas Opener
The St George Illawarra Dragons are entering the new NRL season with a palpable sense of optimism, largely attributed to the arrival of assistant coach Mick Ennis. Hailed as the club’s most significant off-season acquisition, Ennis has been tasked with revitalising the Dragons’ attack, particularly with the integration of rookie halfback Daniel Atkinson.
Ennis, a former Manly Sea Eagles assistant, made the move to the Red V to reunite with head coach Shane Flanagan, a partnership that previously yielded success at the Cronulla Sharks. His influence has been swift and profound, earning widespread praise from players for instilling a dynamic and upbeat attacking style.
A Shift in Attacking Philosophy
Veteran hooker Damien Cook, who played alongside Ennis at the Bulldogs over a decade ago, highlighted the immediate impact of Ennis’s coaching. “This has got nothing to do with [former attack coach] Ryan Carr, but our attack needed changing up, and I now feel we’re more of a threat right across the field,” Cook stated. He elaborated on the improved fitness levels and training intensity of the squad, which now allows them to execute a different style of play. “The way Mick explains things, he’s really clear, and his footy IQ is unbelievable.”
Five-eighth Kyle Flanagan echoed this sentiment, expressing his enjoyment of working with Ennis. “Mick lets us know exactly what he wants from us in a game,” Flanagan said. “I’m loving working with him so far.”
Coach Shane Flanagan underscored the synergy between him and his assistant. “I had Mick at the Sharks, he knows my style and how I want to get things across, and he’s doing a good job – he’s got plenty of energy, and the boys respect him.”
Ennis, who has also held coaching roles with the Raiders, Parramatta, and Manly, harbours aspirations of eventually stepping into a head coaching position. During a media session in Las Vegas, he was observed meticulously addressing the team’s playmakers before delivering an inspiring address to the wider squad, showcasing his leadership capabilities.
Unleashing Daniel Atkinson’s Potential
A key focus for Ennis has been unlocking the full potential of rookie halfback Daniel Atkinson. Ennis identified Atkinson’s exceptional running game and powerful right boot as his primary strengths, and has signalled his intention to grant the young playmaker significant freedom in attack.
“One thing that impressed me over the summer was ‘Atko’s’ long kicking game, and I’m keen to see him play both sides of the field – he’ll definitely get the chance to roam,” Ennis explained. He emphasised that while Atkinson would be defensively anchored to one edge, his attacking licence would be expansive.
Ennis drew parallels to successful halves at other clubs, such as Daly Cherry-Evans and Jack Wighton during his time at Canberra. He believes that by allowing playmakers to operate on both sides of the field, coaches can harness their ability to create opportunities and influence key moments. “Even Luke Brooks at Manly last year, he had the chance to come across field and be that second layer of attack on the right. I’m keen to see Atko and ‘Flanno’ play on both sides.”
Atkinson, who spent much of the previous season coming off the bench for Cronulla, is poised to benefit immensely from consistent game time and Ennis’s guidance. The experience of co-captain Clint Gutherson is also expected to be invaluable in helping Atkinson navigate critical junctures of matches, a role similar to that Tom Trbojevic played for Luke Brooks at Manly.
Strategic Approach for the Season Opener
The Dragons are also implementing a more direct attacking strategy, aiming to avoid venturing wide too early in their sets. This approach is designed to put pressure on opponents from the outset.
For their season opener against the Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs in Las Vegas, the Dragons will be looking to pin the Bulldogs deep in their own territory from the start of every set. This strategic focus is a testament to the meticulous planning undertaken during the pre-season.
In a significant positional shift, Valentine Holmes has been moved from left to right centre. This move will pit him directly against Bulldogs skipper Stephen Crichton, who has also switched sides during the off-season.
“Canterbury have done some wonderful things the past few years,” Ennis acknowledged. “They deserve the praise, but our boys have had an excellent summer, they’ve set themselves up to play well this weekend.”
Addressing the Bulldogs Hype
The considerable media attention and anticipation surrounding the Bulldogs ahead of their season opener have not gone unnoticed by the Dragons. Back-rower Jaydn Su’A voiced his team’s perspective on the matter.
“It’s frustrating [hearing the constant praise],” Su’A said. “They’re a quality team and have earned that, but I keep hearing the word ‘upset’. It won’t be an upset to us. We fully believe in each other and our systems, and we know if we turn up, we can beat anyone on our day.”
The Bulldogs have confirmed their halves pairing for the match, with Matt Burton set to partner Lachie Galvin. Marcelo Montoya and Jacob Kiraz will take their places on the wings, having skipped the pre-season trials.
Meanwhile, other NRL teams are also finalising their lineups. Dylan Brown is set to make his debut for the Newcastle Knights in the halfback role, partnering Fletcher Sharpe. Roosters recruit Sandon Smith has been named on the Knights’ bench. For the North Queensland Cowboys, Reed Mahoney will start at hooker in his first game for the club, with reserve hooker Soni Luke also slated to make his debut from the bench.
