"Romero's downfall comes after a turbulent tenure. She not only removed her predecessor but also oversaw the departure of directors Rick Wayde and Dave Gilbert over the summer.
Tensions intensified when Romero opposed an independent governance review of the Wests Tigers following a hat-trick of wooden spoons - a review that was nonetheless conducted by respected administrators Tony Crawford and Gary Barnier.
That review ultimately handed power to CEO Shane Richardson, who has since implemented a number of its recommendations, reportedly to Romero's displeasure.
Her resistance to reform and the perception of internal obstruction may have cost her crucial boardroom support, culminating in this week's vote.
Burgess's elevation may be viewed with suspicion by some within the Balmain camp who fear a reassertion of Magpies control, despite the formal equal representation structure in place at the
Wests Tigers board level."
Interesting that Romero got removed because she didn't want to implement to recommendations, but Burgess has them put into place.
"
Burgess's appointment is already drawing scrutiny. According to the SMH, he reportedly told Balmain-aligned Wests Tigers director Danny Stapleton, “We're bringing back the Wests Magpies,” a comment that quickly caught fire behind closed doors and reached the desk of
NRL chairman Peter V'landys via concerned
Wests Tigers chair Barry O'Farrell."
“1000%. It was admitted to me directly by someone who is a director of the Magpies.
“The ultimate aim is to return the Magpies to the NRL.
“I know there were discussions not too long ago about extracting Balmain from the Wests Tigers and returning them to the State Cup.
“
I was approached at the time and I said I had no interest in partaking as long as Danny Stapleton is the chair of Balmain. I don't trust the man and I don’t like the man."
Here we have 2 accounts of a similar story- bringing back the Magpies. One reported as being told to Danny Stapleton, the other recounted by Hagi who in the same statement says he doesn't trust Stapleton.
So....do we believe Stapleton? Or Hagi? Or neither? And if Romero gets removed & Burgess gives the go-ahead on the recommendations, does that mean Burgess agreed with the recommendations?
