One down, 24 to go.
The first eight games of the 2021 NRL season didn't just provide us with our initial set of winners and losers, it raised another series of questions.
With each of the league's 16 teams set to do battle again this weekend, we attempted to answer the major issues facing their playing lists and coaches alike.
Manly Warringah Sea Eagles
How hot is Des' seat?
Despite reports of an imminent contract extension, Manly coach Des Hasler is unlikely to be feeling too comfortable in his rapidly warming seat.
Now in the final season of his three year contract at Brookvale, The Sydney Morning Herald reported earlier this week that the Sea Eagle's brass were willing to slap a further two seasons onto Des' deal.
Even if this does come to fruition, the two-time Premiership coach has his work cut out for him, after his side was obliterated on opening day by the rampaging Roosters.
Veteran League journalist Buzz Rothfieldย claimed on Monday that the extension that has been tabled is yet to be signed by the 60-year-old due to its ambiguous performance clauses.
Rothfield also stated on Twitter that the future deal gives the aforementioned big wigs at Brookvale the ability to sack Hasler at any time without needing to grant him a full payout.
As I wrote this morning the new contract will have termination clause that Des didnโt originally want to sign. He can be sacked at any time without full pay out. https://t.co/a2f1f1njuv
— BUZZ ROTHFIELD (@BuzzRothfield) March 15, 2021
Hardly a ringing endorsement and cause for comfort.
With no new deal signed, a dysfunctional team before him and the prospect of tackling a star-studded Souths squad on Saturday, if the Bunnies can replicate the Chook's cricket score at the cricket ground last week, Des' seat may soon scold if sat in.
