St George Illawarra’s last premiership-winning five-eighth, Jamie Soward, has urged fans to remain calm amid accusations of nepotism concerning coach Shane Flanagan’s decision to play his son, Kyle Flanagan, over other potentially stronger contenders. Recently under scrutiny, Flanagan’s choices have drawn criticism as the team languishes in 11th place on the NRL ladder with just five wins from 13 matches, despite being close to higher standings due to narrow losses.
Soward, who played a pivotal role in the Dragons’ only NRL premiership in 2010, believes that while Flanagan’s son has not been at his best, his selection stems from a desire to field the team he believes will succeed. In particular, Soward asserts that Kyle has performed commendably compared to his peers and deserves credit for his efforts. He shared that the pressure from early losses has intensified scrutiny on the team’s performance, especially on the halves, as Kyle has only recorded four try assists.
Kyle Flanagan has faced significant backlash and is often compared unfavourably to other young playmakers, especially in the context of modern game demands, where expectations are unfairly heightened following the success of talents like Nathan Cleary. Soward suggests that instead of contributing to a narrative of favouritism, critics should consider that Flanagan’s connection to Kyle could offer insights that enhance the team’s chances of winning.
As the club grapples with its struggles to score points, Soward noted that internal discussions among senior players might prompt changes if Kyle does not show improvement. The presence of emerging talents in their reserve-grade squad poses additional competition for the halves position, particularly with players like Jonah Glover showcasing impressive performances.
Kyle and other young players, like Lyhkan King-Togia, face immense pressure in their pursuit of establishing themselves in a struggling team. Flanagan has expressed confidence in Kyle, asserting he holds him to high standards and is willing to adapt the team’s strategies to foster better results. With potential shifts in the lineup, the upcoming match against Parramatta could be a turning point for Flanagan as he navigates his son’s career alongside a team that desperately needs consistent victories.