Dragons Finalise Las Vegas Squad: Lawrie Surprise Inclusion
The St George Illawarra Dragons have locked in their 22-man playing roster for the historic NRL season-opener in Las Vegas, a squad that features a notable surprise in the inclusion of prop Blake Lawrie. The decision to bring Lawrie along marks a significant turn of events, given his perceived dip in favour with coach Shane Flanagan during the previous season, which had cast a shadow over his future at the club. His inclusion for the trip to the United States could very well signal a potential resurgence and a chance to reclaim a prominent role within the team.
This selection notably comes at the expense of promising young forward Loko Pasifiki Tonga, who has been omitted from the travelling party. While the focus was on the forwards, the backline also saw some anticipated selections. Tyrell Sloan has been confirmed as part of the squad, a move that was widely expected. He is joined by a contingent vying for wing positions, including Christian Tuipulotu, David Fale, Setu Tu, and Mathew Feagai. In the crucial centre positions, Valentine Holmes and Moses Suli are considered guaranteed starters, barring any unforeseen injuries.
The halves pairing will likely see Daniel Atkinson and Kyle Flanagan feature prominently, with Lyhkan King-Togia also making the trip. The engine room, the middle forwards, will be bolstered by the arrival of new recruit Josh Kerr. He will be supported by experienced campaigners Hame Sele and Emre Guler, alongside emerging talents Ryan and Toby Couchman. Hamish Stewart also makes the squad, and rounding out the forward contingent is the aforementioned and somewhat surprising inclusion of Blake Lawrie.
The second-row options for the Dragons present a wealth of talent and versatility, with Jaydn Su’A, Luciano Leilua, and Jacob Halangahu all being selected. Their presence offers Coach Flanagan a range of strategic choices in how he wants to approach the game’s forward battle.
The Dragons are set to lock horns with the Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs in a highly anticipated clash in Las Vegas. The match is scheduled to take place on Sunday, March 1st (AEDT), with the opening whistle set to blow at 3:30 PM. This fixture marks a significant moment for the NRL, taking the game to an international stage and providing a unique spectacle for both players and fans.
The Dragons’ Las Vegas Squad: A Detailed Look
Here is the complete 22-man squad confirmed by the St George Illawarra Dragons for their Las Vegas encounter against the Bulldogs:
- Daniel Atkinson: A key playmaker expected to contribute significantly in the halves.
- Damien Cook (c): The experienced hooker and captain brings leadership and a strong work ethic to the side.
- Ryan Couchman: One of the exciting young talents emerging from the club’s junior ranks, expected to add energy in the forward pack.
- Toby Couchman: Ryan’s brother, also a promising forward, offering depth and dynamism in the middle.
- David Fale: A contender for a wing spot, bringing speed and agility to the backline.
- Mathew Feagai: Another player in contention for a wing berth, looking to make his mark on the international stage.
- Kyle Flanagan: A crucial component of the Dragons’ halves, looking to steer the team around the park.
- Emre Guler: An experienced front-rower, providing stability and power in the forwards.
- Clint Gutherson (c): While listed, it’s important to note Gutherson is not typically a Dragon. This appears to be an error in the source material. His inclusion would be a significant and unexpected development.
- Jacob Halangahu: Versatile forward option, capable of playing in the second row and adding impact.
- Valentine Holmes: A guaranteed starter in the centres, bringing try-scoring ability and defensive steel.
- Josh Kerr: The new recruit is set to be a cornerstone of the Dragons’ forward pack, aiming to make an immediate impact.
- Lyhkan King-Togia: A player who will provide support and potentially game-breaking moments from the halves or utility role.
- Blake Lawrie: The surprise inclusion, Lawrie has an opportunity to prove his worth and earn a recall after a period out of favour.
- Luciano Leilua: A potent second-rower known for his attacking prowess and ability to break tackles.
- Hame Sele: An experienced forward who adds grit and determination to the Dragons’ pack.
- Tyrell Sloan: A highly-rated young fullback or winger, expected to be a key attacking weapon.
- Hamish Stewart: A versatile backline player who can slot into various positions, adding depth and experience.
- Jaydn Su’A: A powerful second-rower who brings physicality and a strong defensive presence.
- Moses Suli: A strong ball-runner and reliable defender, set to partner Holmes in the centres.
- Setu Tu: Another contender for a wing spot, looking to showcase his speed and finishing ability.
- Christian Tuipulotu: A dynamic winger who will be looking to exploit defensive edges.
The Dragons’ journey to Las Vegas is more than just a season opener; it’s an opportunity for several players, including the unexpected inclusion of Blake Lawrie, to seize their moment and reaffirm their importance to the club’s future ambitions. The team will be eager to make a strong statement on the international stage against a formidable Bulldogs outfit.
