NRL 2020: Why Anthony Griffin is just the man to coach the Dragons

He brought success to the Broncos and Panthers and missed the finals just once, now Dragons coach Anthony Griffin faces an even bigger challenge, writes Dean Ritchie.

Ignoring the panic and fear, St George Illawarra’s board stayed calm and judicious – and got their man.

Anthony Griffin has secured the Dragons head coaching job for the next two seasons – winning over a nervous board and now tasked with winning over the club’s vocal and disgruntled fan base.

That may be easy compared to Griffin’s job of trying to ease and numb an aggressive media campaign aimed at sinking his quiet push for the top position.

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He may be a divisive choice as coach but he is a winner. Picture: Getty Images.

Griffin has seen a lot at Brisbane and Penrith but even he was shocked at the ferocity of attacks directed his way over the past week.

The Dragons board could easily have buckled but instead held their nerve under pressure and nailed their man. It was refreshing to see directors ignore outside noise and influence.

What isn’t open for debate is Griffin’s winning success rate – which sits at a highly respectable 55 per cent. He has won 96 from 173 games at Brisbane and Penrith, two giant NRL clubs. He missed the finals just once.

This is why he got the job. It had nothing to do with alleged former disgruntled players or apparent flaws in his coaching style. He got it because his sides win.

It was thought Anthony Griffin’s chances were off due to an apparent falling out with Phil Gould. Picture: Gregg Porteous.

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Griffin has told friends he is unsure why he attracted such vitriol yet claims to have a fair idea where the campaign started.

He will need to accept and tolerate such criticism.

That comes with coaching such a famous and proud club. I just wonder whether Griffin should brace for further condemnation – win, lose or draw.

Originally published as NRL 2020: Why Anthony Griffin is just the man to coach the Dragons