Canberra assistant coach Michael Ennis cleared to call Raiders games

Fox Sports has given Canberra’s assistant coach Michael Ennis the all-clear to call Raiders games, despite a perceived conflict of interest.

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Fox Sports has given Canberra’s assistant coach Michael Ennis the all-clear to call Raiders games despite a perceived conflict of interest.

Ennis was rostered to commentate on Canberra’s 6pm Friday game against Melbourne with the approval of head of television Steve Crawley.

However, he picked up a stomach bug and had to stand down shortly before kick-off.

Ennis is confident he can do both roles: “I think the positives far outweigh the negatives,” he said.

“No doubt it can be challenging at times, but the ability to stay in touch with the modern game is vital with my commentary and analysis.”

Ennis can’t see a problem juggling his two roles.

Channel 9 banned Phil Gould from commentating on Penrith games several years ago and Joey Johns quit the Roosters coaching staff last year when players got upset by his comments in the Anzac Day loss to the Dragons.

The eighth Immortal was critical of centre Latrell Mitchell not getting enough football and said: “They’ve got a Ferrari in the garage but they never drive it, you never see him with the ball.”

Johns told me at the time: “I can’t stop calling Roosters games. I’m paid to call it as I see it and that’s what I’ve got to do.”

Gus Gould has been kept away from Panthers game. Image: AAP Image/Joel Carrett

Years ago I was critical of Greg Alexander handing out Dally M points and calling games involving the Penrith because of his position as a director on the board.

Crawley is aware there’ll be much interest from viewers if Ennis calls a game in which Canberra play poorly.

Will he be critical of players he has to work with?

“It’s not 100 per cent ideal,” Crawley admitted. “But Fox League wants commentators who not only understand the modern game but are relevant to it.

“Greg Alexander has a coaching role with the halves at the Panthers.

“Matt Johns has worked with many clubs. Blocker (Steve Roach). Justin Hodges. Danny Buderus.

“We’re in a unique position regarding that relevance and know-how and we won’t give up on it.”

Originally published as Canberra assistant coach Michael Ennis cleared to call Raiders games