IT breaks up one of the most dynamic back-row duos in the NRL but Dragons star Tyson Frizell says he doesn’t begrudge long-time foil Joel Thompson’s departure to join Manly this season.
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Thompson and Frizell have locked down both the Dragons edges for the past three seasons and were expected to do so again before an early release allowed Thompson to sign a long-term deal with the Sea Eagles.
It’s a massive blow for us, Joel’s a quality player and he was great to have around the club.
- Tyson Frizell
Having enjoyed an extended break after the World Cup, the news came as a surprise for Frizell but he remains confident the club’s next generation can fill the void.
“It’s a massive blow for us, Joel’s a quality player and he was great to have around the boys and the club,” Frizell said.
“I found out as soon as he made [the decision]. I saw him that day, it was actually at my wedding and he let me know. That’s the way rugby league goes sometimes.
“We’re happy for him, you’ve got to do what’s best for yourself and your family and, the way it panned out, he’s at Manly now and he’s enjoying it there.
"We’ve got guys like Luch [Luciano Leilua] coming through and, as much as it was hard to see Thommo go, we do have other players there putting their hand up to take that opportunity.
Mitch Jennings
Sports writer. Sport is my passion, rugby league my first love.
Sports writer. Sport is my passion, rugby league my first love.
