Wests Tigers the doormat of the NRL
Brent ReadSeptember 13, 2019
Wests Tigers fell short of a finals appearance in 2019. Picture: Getty Images
Wests Tigers fell short of a finals appearance in 2019. Picture: Getty Images
In the days leading up the Wests Tigers’ premiership win in 2005, former chief executive Steve Noyce — high on emotion and ambition — banged his chest and talked about the club wanting to become the Manchester United of the NRL.
All these years later, they are more akin to Accrington Stanley. The 2005 title was meant to be a turning point in the joint venture’s history.
Instead, it has become a distant sepia-toned memory that Tigers fans and officials cling to as they reminisce about the good old days and claim they can still be a force.
Truth is, the Tigers have been a light touch ever since, a doormat for rival clubs, players and their agents.
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Michael Maguire said it best after his side’s inglorious exit from the finals race before a packed house at Leichhardt Oval last weekend.
For too long, near enough has been good enough for the Tigers. They talk a good game but play a soft one.
