‘We’re here to win football matches’: Dragons coach Shane Flanagan clarifies the ban on try celebrations

Shane Flanagan has clarified the recent ban on try-scoring celebrations he implemented at the Dragons as the club aims to establish its presence in the league.

The rugby league community reacted with mixed feelings when they discovered that the Dragons’ coach had enforced this prohibition following Christian Tuipulotu’s attention-grabbing celebrations.

Tuipulotu sparked controversy with his money-sign gesture during the first round against the Bulldogs, which seemed to hint at his hopes of securing a contract renewal.

His antics drew significant criticism, especially as the Dragons found themselves 18 points behind at that moment. Nevertheless, Tuipulotu repeated the celebration in the following match against South Sydney.

Flanagan acknowledged that Tuipulotu’s gesture was quite “unconventional” and expressed his confusion over the choice of celebration.

“It was certainly unusual for him,” Flanagan shared during a Triple M interview on Sunday.

“It came out of nowhere; I have no clue why he did it.”

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Flanagan made it clear that while he appreciates Tuipulotu’s energetic spirit on the field, he remains committed to guiding the team in the right direction.

The 56-year-old coach, who emphasised that he is not entirely against celebrations, stated clearly under what circumstances he disapproves of exuberant displays.

“He’s full of energy. He’s lively and enthusiastic, which makes him a joy to have at training,” he remarked.

“However, I told him, ‘You can celebrate as much as you want as long as it’s when we’re winning, not when we’re down.’ If they are scoring tries and we’re winning, the players can do whatever they like. I’m not putting a ban on any celebrations.”

St George Illawarra will be back in action this Saturday as they prepare to take on the Eels.