St. George Illawarra CEO Ryan Webb reveals reasons behind Anthony Griffin’s brutal firing
St George Illawarra CEO Ryan Webb has broken his silence on the club’s decision to immediately sack manager Anthony Griffin.
In chaotic scenes, Griffin left the Dragons’ headquarters in Wollongong for the last time just before 8 a.m. Tuesday morning, with the players shortly after standing in front of the media, unaware that their coach had received marching orders.
WATCH THE VIDEO ABOVE: Dragons CEO Ryan Webb Explains Why Anthony Griffin Was Fired.
Watch or stream the latest sport on Channel 7 for free 7plus >>
“I have no idea. “I only got into practice ten minutes ago so I’m out of touch and I have no idea what’s going on,” Dragons forward Jack de Belin said as the drama unfolded.
In a phone call Monday night, Dragons officials decided to fire Griffin immediately.
With just 22 wins and 35 losses, no finals and no prospect of that ending this season, Webb said coaching rugby league is a results-driven business.
“Ultimately, it comes down to the results,” Webb told 7NEWS reporter Michelle Bishop.
“This year, especially the last six weeks, there was just a plateau and we just couldn’t get any wins.”
Webb explained that the Dragons needed a coaching change.
“In these times of change, it’s a good thing to have someone strong in your direction and your beliefs,” Webb said.
“I think Ryan Carr will do a good job for us in the meantime.”
Webb said he expects the appointment of a new coach to be announced soon.
“Hopefully we can do something in the coming weeks.”
Webb said that while developing younger players would remain in the charter for the next coach, he insisted they didn’t need to overhaul the system at the Dragons.
“Hook (Griffin) did a really good job of really supporting the trails,” Webb said.
“Toby Couchman is a perfect example and he has a lot of players behind him. (Jayden) Sullivan gets plenty of time now and Sloany (Tyrell Sloan).
“He (Griffin) put a lot of emphasis on the paths and there are a lot of good players coming through. It’s about continuing the good work that’s started.”
– With AAP
