In a significant lineup change, Dragons coach Shane Flanagan has moved his son, Kyle Flanagan, to the halfback position for their crucial match against Manly, just 12 days after he sustained a concerning concussion against the Titans. Following that incident, which required him being stretchered off, the young Flanagan has been cleared by medical staff to resume play. This week, he dons the No. 7 jersey for the first time this season, while Daniel Atkinson will transition to five-eighth, a strategic shift that Flanagan believes will benefit both players.
Flanagan assured fans of his son’s readiness, emphasizing that he would never compromise the safety of his players, stating, “Yes he’s my son, but I wouldn’t risk any of my players if the medical team didn’t tell me they were 100 per cent right to play.” He expressed confidence in Kyle’s resilience, recalling the struggles he faced in telling him he wouldn’t play the previous week. Flanagan also noted that Atkinson’s strengths lie in his running game, allowing him to focus on playing without the burden of team management responsibilities.
As preparations for the upcoming matches continue, other teams face injury crises. Reigning champions Brisbane must cope with losses to key players Reece Walsh and Ben Hunt, while Parramatta also sees a wave of changes due to player injuries.
In addition, game previews reveal teams altering their strategies and player selections. The weekend schedule includes several notable matches, starting with the Canterbury Bulldogs facing the Penrith Panthers. The Dragons’ match against the Sea Eagles stands out, as Flanagan’s adjustments may pivot the game’s dynamics.
As the season progresses, the evolving team strategies and player performances will be crucial for each club’s ambitions. Enthusiasts eagerly await these matchups, particularly how the reshuffled teams will construct their tactics in light of recent injuries and roster adjustments.