Tigers legends Steve Roach and Garry Jack have called on players to stand up and show pride in the jumper in Sunday’s vital clash with the Bulldogs after the club’s disastrous start to the season.
The pair have been left embarrassed and shaking their heads after consecutive losses at Leichhardt to two ‘unfancied’ teams – the Titans and Knights.
The Tigers’ finals hopes are now on life support after just two rounds – a horrible start to the new Tim Sheens/Benji Marshall era.
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A third loss to the Bulldogs would prove disastrous.
“I was just embarrassed by the way they played against the Knights in particular,” former star fullback Jack said.
“Newcastle lost Kalyn Ponga in the first minute, they lost their hooker soon afterwards, had a player sent off and another one sin binned.
“The game was virtually handed to the Tigers on a platter and they still never looked like winning.
“It was embarrassing and I felt for the big crowd who paid their money – they deserve better. Players need to show more pride.
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“I was just left shaking my head – it looks like it is going to be a long season – the players just didn’t seem up for it.
“I hate to think what is going to happen when they go on the road against the really good sides.”
Roach was also left struggling for answers.
“After all the hype over the pre-season abut the new Tigers, it was just more of the same,” the former Balmain and Test prop said.
“I’ve been a Tigers man all my life so it is very disappointing.
“It is hard to watch to be honest – they look clueless out there.
“A lot has been said about (halfback) Luke Brooks and he seems to be feeling the pressure. He is thinking too hard instead of playing what is in front of him.
“It’s already got to the stage where this Bulldogs game is a must-win – being nought and three would be a deep dark hole.”
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