The Wests Tigers winless 0-5 start to the season has taken another embarrassing turn after the announcement of their ANZAC Day commemorative jerseys.
The issue under the spotlight is the use of American soldiers on the shirt, which has drawn stark criticism across the rugby league world.
Both Gorden Tallis and Ben Dobbin on the Footy Talk League Podcast were heavily disappointed.
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‘That’s one of my favourite rounds, if not my favourite,
‘Because of the respect, because of what you’re playing for,’ said Tallis.
‘To go and play in that, I’ve always been honoured.
‘I’m not saying heads should roll but something should happen.’
But Tallis also questioned why this mistake even happened in the first place.
‘I’m sure Western Suburbs would have someone, I’m sure Balmain would have some sort of connection to [the Australian Defence Force].’
Though Ben Dobbin believes this problem started from the top.
‘The fish rots from the head Gorden,’ said Dobbo.
Alluding to Wests Tigers CEO Justin Pascoe, the club’s boss has come under a lot of scrutiny over the past week.
His side’s winless start in 2023, poor performances in the last decade, questionable recruitment and being on his phone in the dressing sheds during a team talk in their 46-12 loss against the Brisbane Broncos has pushed fans to their boiling point.
And Dobbo made sure the Tigers boss wasn’t going to be excused for another club mishap.
‘It’s not the marketing manager, it’s the CEO, he presides over everything.’
‘This is just another blunder!’ said Dobbo.
The Wests Tigers have since announced that they will redesign the commemorative jersey and apologised for the mistake.
Hear Gorden Tallis & Ben Dobbin every Wednesday on Footy Talk League! New episodes every day at lunchtime – listen for FREE on the LiSTNR app.