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Dragons fans breathe fire as Morris goes to the Dogs

Brett Morris is an easy selection in the Dragons' best ever side. (AAP Image/Dean Lewins)
Roar Guru
23rd October, 2014
50

Rugby league’s worst kept secret has been confirmed, with the Bulldogs officially announcing the signing of Dragons superstar Brett Morris.

Hilariously, the Dogs trumpeted the signing in front of a ‘born and bred’ backdrop, despite the fact that both Morris brothers are Dragons juniors and were poached from the joint-venture side.

Bulldogs fans, although they had expected this decision, were barking loud, proclaiming their side to be the early favourites to win next season’s competition.

Meanwhile, fans of the Red V took to social media to express their disgust at letting perhaps their best attacking weapon join the Dogs.

Anger was directed solidly at the board and CEO Peter Doust, who Dragons fans see as responsible for the current cap issues that have led to the NSW winger’s departure.

#OustDoust was a favourite among disgruntled Dragons fans throughout last season, however slightly stronger wording is being used now.

There have been multiple reports that the Dragons face salary cap issues after the signing of Benji Marshall and the reported backflip of backrower Joel Thompson’s intentions to return to Canberra.

The pain may yet get worse as Gerard Beale, Jason Nightingale, Adam Quinlan and Dylan Walker have also been reported to be in discussions with other clubs.

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Last season the Dragons had one of the best backlines in the competition, chock full of rep experience and talent, but they were often dominated in the forwards. As good as Trent Merrin and Co. are, they lacked the size and grunt to match it with the bigger packs such as the Roosters, Bunnies and Dogs.

Money needs to be redirected into new signings up front, and unfortunately Brett Morris was the first casualty of the cap situation. Being linked to big men Russell Packer and George Rose hasn’t eased fans’ concerns.

Surely the club now has to hang on to Nightingale, who despite his reported wage, is among the best finishers in the game. He’d walk into a number of backlines in the competition if he was requested to move on. Beale, Quinlan and Farrell look the most likely to transfer, with the Warriors, Titans, Sharks and Raiders all mentioned as potential suitors.

There is no doubt moves have to be made to strengthen their forward pack. However fans are within their rights to vent at cap miscalculations after seeing Brett Morris walk into a side containing both Origin halves, Josh Morris, and James Graham, among others.

With the pain set to get worse, Dragons fans are sure to make their feelings known.

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