“Flanagan to Bulldogs: ‘It’s Not Where You Are Now It’s Where You Finish That Matters’”
St. George Illawarra Dragons head coach Shane Flanagan has thrown down the gauntlet in a powerful and passionate message aimed directly at current ladder leaders, the Canterbury Bulldogs.
The Bulldogs, flying high at the top of the NRL table after seven rounds, have certainly earned their early-season praise. But Flanagan, a coach who knows what it takes to go the distance, isn’t interested in short-term success or media hype. For him, what matters isn’t who shines in April it’s who stands tallest in September.
“I’ve seen teams start hot and burn out before finals footy even begins,” Flanagan said. “Right now, everyone’s talking about the Bulldogs. They’re on top after seven games, good on them. But let me tell you something it’s not about where you are at the start or even halfway through the season. It’s about where you are when the dust settles, when the real pressure kicks in.”
Flanagan made it clear that his focus is squarely on building something stronger and more sustainable with his Dragons side. Despite not being in the top four after seven rounds, he isn’t concerned. What drives him isn’t the table today it’s the belief that his squad is evolving into a team that can deliver when it matters most.
“I’ve got a group of men here who are hungry. They’ve been doubted, written off, and tested already. But we’re not crumbling. We’re learning. We’re growing. And mark my words we’ll bounce back.”
The Bulldogs may have started with a roar, but Flanagan believes the NRL season is a marathon, not a sprint. He referenced previous seasons where early leaders faded and underestimated teams surged late.
“We’ve got our eyes on the finish line, not the headlines. Let them celebrate now we’ll stay focused on finishing strong. That’s what champions do.
The Dragons coach’s statement has sparked discussion across the league, with fans already circling future matchups between St. George Illawarra and the high-flying Bulldogs. With Flanagan’s message loud and clear, it’s not just a warning it’s a challenge.
As the season unfolds, one thing is certain: Shane Flanagan isn’t here for short-term praise. He’s building a side with fire in their belly, determined to write their own story and he’s not afraid to call out the competition while doing it.
“We respect every opponent but we don’t fear anyone. We’ll bounce back, and when we do, we’ll be ready to make our mark where it matters on the ladder, at the end.