Clint Gutherson Acknowledges ‘Pressure’ on Dragons’ Halves Despite Coach’s Position: ‘We’re Running Out of Time’

Clint Gutherson has acknowledged the growing “pressure” on the St. George Illawarra halves, despite coach Shane Flanagan’s assurances last week that his son Kyle’s position was secure.

In recent weeks, Flanagan Jr. has faced criticism, particularly after the Dragons suffered a heavy defeat to the Dolphins and then allowed Cronulla to overturn the match with a second-half comeback.

With a bye in round 16 leading to a temporary lull in the chatter, the Red V now finds itself in a crucial must-win situation against Parramatta to attempt to salvage their season.

Flanagan, aged 26, is set to remain in the halfback role for Saturday’s match, yet the impressive performances of Lachlan Ilias in reserve grade have ignited discussions.

After a disappointing Anzac Day outing led to his drop to the NSW Cup, Ilias has helped the Dragons secure seven consecutive wins as they ascend the ladder.

Despite this, Coach Flanagan has communicated that the current first-grade halves are not feeling any pressure, though Gutherson’s comments at a Monday press conference suggested otherwise.

“When you’re wearing the seven jersey, there’s always going to be extra pressure,” he remarked.

“The best approach to alleviate that is to win – if you’re performing well and fulfilling your role, the pressure eases and people stop scrutinising you.

“It’s undoubtedly challenging, but that’s not my concern. Lachy has dealt with the entire situation remarkably; he hasn’t complained or made excuses at all.”

“He’s just gone about his business, improved his game, and he’s certainly doing a solid job while putting pressure on, which is exactly what we want.

“In-house competition for positions is essential. Every player going out for a match is striving for victory, and if we don’t achieve that, your spot is at risk.

“It’s all about committing to that, and that’s what Lachy is delivering to the halves.”

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When asked if he thought Flanagan and King-Togia were the best halves combination available to the club, Gutherson replied,

“That’s above my pay grade.”

“My role is to play footy, rally the boys, and ensure we’re prepared for game day. Team selections are not my domain, and I don’t wish to interfere with that.

“No matter who is in that 17, I’ll give my all to work with them, and they’ll have my complete support. It’s not my responsibility to choose the team; I’m focused on collaborating with the group I have got.

“They are improving – it takes time, but in the NRL, we don’t have the luxury of time, and we need to find success quickly.”

Flanagan has recorded four tries and provided assists in 13 games this season, matching his total from the previous season while playing five-eighth alongside Ben Hunt.

In less than half as many games, King-Togia has also notched four assists, while Ilias managed just two in seven appearances before being relegated.

Following their matchup with Parramatta, the beleaguered Dragons will encounter a daunting stretch of three matches against the Raiders, Roosters, and Bulldogs.