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Clint Gutherson’s form and fitness are under scrutiny as the Dragons search for speed and attacking spark after a fifth straight loss.
Clint Gutherson is under mounting pressure to retain the Dragons' No.1 jersey after another heavy defeat, with concerns growing over the side's lack of attacking spark.
St George Illawarra slumped to their fifth straight loss with a 32-0 defeat to the Cowboys at home, prompting boos from supporters after a flat attacking display. The result has intensified scrutiny on coach Shane Flanagan, with reports the club has paused contract talks for off-contract players as it searches for solutions.
Gutherson, the club captain, has come into focus following a quiet start to the season. The 31-year-old has managed just one try and one linebreak in five appearances, with the faster tempo of the 2026 competition appearing to expose a lack of speed at fullback.
Recent rule adjustments have increased the pace of play, placing greater emphasis on explosive backline runners. Players such as Reece Walsh and Sua Fa'alogo have thrived in those conditions, highlighting the growing importance of speed late in matches.
That contrast was evident in the loss to North Queensland, when Cowboys centre Jaxon Purdue bypassed support and ran around Gutherson with ease during a line break. Reporter Michael Carayannis said the moment reflected a broader issue, arguing the Dragons lack a genuine game-breaking presence.
Gutherson now faces further uncertainty after suffering a hamstring injury late in the match, placing him in doubt for Thursday's clash with Manly. His absence could open the door for Val Holmes or Tyrell Sloan to shift into the fullback role.
Speculation has also emerged around a potential mid-season move, with reports linking the Dragons to Dolphins fullback Trai Fuller. The club is said to be exploring a possible early release, though no deal has been confirmed.
Flanagan acknowledged the scale of the problem after the defeat, stating the side lacked cohesion and must find answers quickly to revive their season.