“We Need To Teach the Broncos a Lesson and Prove Why We’re the Next Champions” – Shane Flanagan and Ben Hunt Fire Shots at Brisbane Amid Dragons’ Bold Season Ambitions
As the 2024 NRL season heats up, St. George Illawarra Dragons coach Shane Flanagan and star halfback Ben Hunt have made their intentions crystal clear, with the duo boldly targeting Brisbane Broncos as a key opponent in their quest to prove the Dragons are ready to challenge for the NRL title. In an exclusive statement, both Flanagan and Hunt made it known that their team is not just aiming for a playoff spot but is setting its sights on becoming the next NRL champions, with an eye on teaching the Broncos “a lesson” along the way.
Flanagan, who took over as head coach in 2024, has been vocal about his vision for the club, emphasizing the importance of developing a winning mentality and fostering a competitive edge. The seasoned coach, known for his success with Cronulla Sharks, has a clear goal in mind – to return the Dragons to their former glory and reclaim a spot at the top of Australian rugby league.
A Bold Message from Shane Flanagan
“We need to teach teams like Brisbane a lesson,” Flanagan said, referencing the growing dominance of the Broncos in recent seasons. “Brisbane has been impressive, but we believe we have the squad, the mindset, and the hunger to prove that we are the next champions. This club has a rich history, and we’re not here to simply make up the numbers. We’re here to challenge for the title, and that starts with games against the top teams like the Broncos.”
The Dragons have undergone a significant shake-up under Flanagan’s leadership, with a focus on bringing in experienced players while also promoting young talent from the club’s system. The addition of new faces and a fresh approach to training and tactics has reinvigorated the squad. With Flanagan instilling confidence in his players, the Dragons are targeting consistency in both attack and defense.
One of the most crucial players in their pursuit of glory is Ben Hunt, the veteran halfback and captain. Hunt has long been regarded as one of the NRL’s premier playmakers, and his leadership on the field will be vital in driving the Dragons’ ambition to compete with the top teams in the competition.
Ben Hunt’s Bold Challenge to the Broncos
Ben Hunt, speaking after a recent training session, echoed Flanagan’s sentiments and laid down the gauntlet to Brisbane. “Brisbane’s been a top team for a while now, and we respect that. But it’s time for us to prove that we’re a force to be reckoned with. We need to show why we’re the next champions. Brisbane is a great side, but we’re not intimidated. We want to take it to them, and every other team in this competition,” Hunt said.
Hunt, who is entering his 15th season in the NRL, has seen it all during his career. From heart-breaking finals exits to being a key figure for the Queensland Maroons in State of Origin, Hunt understands the grind required to become a champion. His message to the Broncos and the rest of the competition is simple: the Dragons are no longer a team to underestimate. With Hunt at the helm, the Dragons will be targeting key victories over their biggest rivals, including the Broncos, to solidify their credentials as legitimate title contenders.
A New Era for the Dragons
The 2024 Dragons are a team on a mission. With Flanagan instilling a no-nonsense approach and Hunt leading from the front, there is a palpable sense of belief within the squad. While the Broncos may have been one of the top teams in recent seasons, the Dragons are setting their sights on disrupting the status quo and proving they are ready to rise to the top.
As the season progresses, fans can expect to see the Dragons bring their best against the Broncos and other contenders, making a statement that they are not just here to participate but to dominate. Flanagan and Hunt’s bold words are more than just rhetoric – they are a declaration of intent, signaling that the Dragons are hungry for success and ready to challenge for the NRL title in 2024.
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