Andrew Johns acknowledges the “fine line” coaches must tread when managing players with strong personalities, following the ban on Christian Tuipulotu’s try celebration.
The powerful winger has made a remarkable start to the season, scoring a hat-trick against the Bulldogs and adding another try against South Sydney.
Tuipulotu’s celebrations have sparked controversy, featuring gestures that indicate financial gain and exuberantly raising his arms.
This has posed a dilemma for coach Shane Flanagan, particularly since Tuipulotu’s actions have not translated into victories for the Red V, prompting the coach to prohibit the player’s celebrations.
Christian Tuipulotu celebrating a try in round one. Getty
The strict approach taken by the premiership-winning coach coincided with Flanagan’s refusal to back the struggling halfback Lachlan Ilias. However, Johns believes that banning the winger’s celebrations was a justified decision.
“If you’re winning a significant match and there’s a pivotal moment, I can understand it then,” Johns stated on Wide World of Sports’ Immortal Behaviour.
“In round one, they were trailing by 18 points, and I thought, ‘Christian, what are you doing, mate? Read the room. You can’t be pulling this stuff when you’re down by 18.’
Catch the 2025 NRL premiership live and free on Nine and 9Now.
Nevertheless, the legendary halfback acknowledged that coaches need to be mindful of how they manage players like Tuipulotu, who has become known as the ‘hype man’ in Wollongong.
“It’s a delicate balance,” Johns remarked.
Christian Tuipulotu during his side’s round two defeat against South Sydney. Getty
“He has a vibrant personality, and you don’t want to suppress that, but it’s essential not to place undue pressure on yourself and the team.
“He needs to wait for the appropriate moments.”
Tuipulotu has amassed 26 tries in 47 first grade appearances since making his debut with the Roosters five years ago, before spending three seasons at Manly.
The St George Illawarra side has a bye in round three before facing title contenders Melbourne on March 29.
Compiled by SportArena.com.au.
Fanpage: SportArena.com.au.
LiveScore – Live Sports Results & Odds.
