The Fulton family has strong ties to the Manly club. The recent removal of Kristie Fulton – the daughter of club legend and Immortal Bob Fulton – from an office role and the reduction in Scott’s influence will test those ties.
Mestrov has had a baptism of fire since taking over as CEO at the end of last year. He was heavily criticised over his handling of Des Hasler’s sacking, with the former coach threatening legal action against the club.
Tony Mestrov has had a baptism of fire as CEO.Credit:James Brickwood
Mestrov’s decision to bring in Anthony Seibold has so far been vindicated with the club sitting on top of the ladder with two wins and a bye.
Seibold was largely considered damaged goods after his failed stint at the Broncos but appears to have resurrected his career on the Northern Beaches.
“This situation he finds himself in at Manly is very similar to when he had success at South Sydney,” Mestrov said.
“He had senior players, like he does now with Daly Cherry-Evans and the Trbojevic brothers. He did well in that environment and gave young players a crack around them like he’s doing now. He’s an astute footy brain.
“He had his challenges at Brisbane but it wasn’t the right environment for him. He’s learnt from his successes and his mistakes.”
Roosters, Crichton to chart course back to NRL
Sydney Roosters coach Trent Robinson will meet with Angus Crichton over the next 48 hours to map out a road back to the NRL.
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Crichton’s mental health battles have been well documented over the past month having repeatedly taken time out from the game to help him deal with a bipolar disorder.
Crichton last week met with Sydney Roosters chairman Nick Politis, who has since flown out to Greece on holidays.
The next step is to meet with Robinson and club medical staff. Crichton is expected to do some individual training over the next week with the hope of rejoining his teammates at training over the next two to three weeks.
While some feared Crichton would not play again in 2023, there is growing optimism that he will play a part for the Roosters this season.
Mitchell could meet with abuser
The NRL is finalising its own investigation into the Latrell Mitchell abuse incident at Penrith last round. While the police concluded its investigation by issuing the teenager with a warning, the NRL is working out if they should take any extra measures.
It appears call for a life ban for the 15-year-old perpetrator will fall on deaf ears, especially with such strong denials the slur was racial in nature.
The NRL is more concerned with education than punishment. An outcome is expected in the next few days. One option being discussed is whether Mitchell should meet the with kid.
Sonny still top Dog at Belmore
Sonny Bill Williams is still the king of Belmore. If it wasn’t enough the club’s lower grade players were lining up for photos with him inside the tunnel before kick-off, he was also asked for a photo by Bulldogs superstar Viliame Kikau.
Despite the searing heat, Bulldogs coach Cameron Ciraldo organised for his side to make the 500m walk from Canterbury Leagues Club through Terry Lamb Reserve and into the ground.
They did with a marching band of Lebanese drummers. The way the club embraced multicultural round on Sunday is the benchmark of the NRL.
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Tigers boss takes time out
Wests Tigers chairman Lee Hagipantelis was a notable absentee from Sunday’s game against the Bulldogs at Belmore. The Tigers boss is on a 10-day holiday in Cyprus for a family event and wasn’t able to attend the Cameron Ciraldo Cup.
Ex-Eels signing faces jail time
Remember Gareth Hock, the big-name Englishman Parramatta signed for 2014 but who never turned up? He’s now facing a lengthy stint in jail.
He was recently charged with rape and assault. That’s on top of previous charges earlier this month, including controlling and coercive behaviour, as well as two driving offences.
Greater Manchester Police confirmed the 39-year-old has been remanded in custody.
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