Dragons Eyeing Storm Star as Recruitment Drive Gathers Pace
The St George Illawarra Dragons are reportedly setting their sights on Melbourne Storm forward Shawn Blore as they continue their aggressive recruitment drive for the 2027 season. Following a couple of challenging years that saw the departure of coach Shane Flanagan, the club appears determined to undertake a significant roster overhaul, signalling their intent to be major players in the transfer market.
The Dragons have already secured a string of high-profile signings for the upcoming season, including Keaon Koloamatangi from the Rabbitohs, Scott Drinkwater from the Cowboys, Phillip Sami from the Titans, Luke Metcalf from the Warriors, and Connor Watson from the Roosters. To accommodate these new additions and clear salary cap space, several players have been released, with Jaydn Su’A moving to the Eels, Damien Cook heading to Castleford, Emre Guler also joining Castleford, and Mat Feagai departing the club. More player movements are anticipated in the coming months.
Blore, a powerful back-rower who has represented Samoa on the international stage, is seen as a potential game-changer for the Dragons’ forward pack. After three seasons in Melbourne, the 25-year-old is understood to be keen on a return to Sydney. Interestingly, he previously played for the Wests Tigers for three seasons, beginning his NRL career there in 2020 before his move to the Storm, where he has since developed into one of the league’s premier back-rowers under the guidance of Craig Bellamy. The Wests Tigers are also rumoured to be interested in Blore, adding a layer of intrigue to his future.
Off-Field Turmoil at Parramatta Eels Escalates
The ongoing dispute between the Parramatta Eels and the “Talking Parra” podcast has taken a peculiar turn. Following revelations last week, an email allegedly penned by 1980s premiership winner and club ambassador David Liddiard was reportedly sent to the podcast’s sponsors, urging them to withdraw their advertising. The podcast has been vocal in its criticism of the club’s on-field and off-field performances.
However, Liddiard has since denied sending the email, stating that he has no issues with the podcast. The email address from which it was purportedly sent has since been deactivated. “I don’t know what’s going on, but I never sent the email and that account was in my name, but it wasn’t mine,” Liddiard commented. “Someone is obviously playing dirty tricks – I just want to stay out of it.” This situation adds another layer of complexity to the club’s off-field challenges.
Heartbreak Fuels Titans’ Stunning Upset Victory
Gold Coast Titans’ fullback Keano Kini played a pivotal role in his team’s dramatic victory over the Broncos on Saturday night, but he carried a heavy burden into the match. Kini’s late chip-and-chase try is being hailed as one of the most iconic moments in the Titans’ history, securing a thrilling, last-gasp win against the reigning premiers.
Despite the elation of the victory, Kini was grappling with immense personal grief. Just days before the game, he lost two of his uncles, Peter and Ray. The devastating news almost led Kini to withdraw from the match, but he ultimately decided to play, dedicating the unforgettable win to his departed relatives. His wife, Faith, shared on Instagram, “It was great to get the win for them.” Kini, who missed a significant portion of last season due to a neck injury, has emerged as one of the Gold Coast’s standout performers during what has been a challenging season for the club.
South Sydney Rabbitohs Identify Potential Replacement for Club Legend
The South Sydney Rabbitohs are actively searching for a successor to their prolific winger, Alex Johnston, who is set to join the PNG Chiefs in 2028. The club may already have the ideal candidate within its ranks in the form of Jordi Mazzone.
Mazzone, a dynamic winger currently playing in the NSW Cup, was in scintillating form last Saturday, scoring four tries in the Rabbitohs’ victory over Manly. His performance included a couple of spectacular long-range efforts. To date, Mazzone has amassed an impressive 23 tries in 19 games this season, demonstrating his try-scoring prowess and potential to fill the void left by the departing Johnston. His continued development will be closely watched by the club’s coaching staff.
