The Dragons are hoping history will repeat itself as Clint Gutherson, the 31-year-old veteran, looks to emulate the 2016 winner. Shane Flanagan, the coach, can't help but smile as he watches Gutherson set the pace in the training paddock. It's not where you'd typically expect a 13-year NRL veteran to be, but Gutherson prides himself on being exactly where he is. Flanagan knew he needed more experience if the Dragons were to climb the ladder and get the best out of a talented crop of emerging juniors. Gutherson's impact on the squad was immediate, setting the tone on and off the field. Flanagan praises Gutherson's work ethic, saying, 'He just wins most things we do. He puts his mind to it and away he goes.' The fullback played every minute of every game in 2025, defying expectations and winning the club's Player of the Year award. But here's where it gets controversial: Flanagan's recruitment of Gutherson is not without precedent. As Sharks coach, Flanagan pounced on Luke Lewis in 2012, and three years later, Lewis played a key role in the Sharks' premiership win. The similarities between Gutherson and Lewis are striking. Both are hard trainers, club men, and have a similar impact on the team. However, managing Gutherson's relentless work ethic is a challenge. At 31, Flanagan and the medical team must ensure he remains on the field by managing his body. Gutherson recognizes he is closer to the end of his career and is dedicated to managing his recovery and looking after his body. With no plans to slow down anytime soon, he is determined to lead the Dragons back to the top eight. The Dragons enter Saturday's clash as heavy underdogs against a Canterbury side expected to contend for the premiership. On the flipside, many fans are tipping St George Illawarra to win the wooden spoon. Internally, expectations are high for a club that has gone through a major overhaul in the off-season. Halfback Dan Atkinson arrived as a marquee recruit, prop Josh Kerr is back at the Dragons as a more mature and consistent player, and new assistant coach Michael Ennis has taken charge of the team's attack. The Las Vegas season opener provides an immediate chance to silence the doubters, and Gutherson is looking forward to shocking rugby league fans this weekend. 'We believe in what we're doing and where we're going as a team and as a club,' he said. 'We've just got to believe in-house that we can do it and I know we've got the personnel that can go out there and shock a few people.'
