Why Gould wouldn’t talk about the only thing everyone is talking about
Phil Gould was driving the news cycle with his opinions. He’s making headlines when he’s not sharing anymore.
The biggest talking point to emerge from the opening State of Origin match was the one Gould wasn’t ready to cover. NSW’s most successful coach would not have been impressed by Kalyn Ponga’s controversial send-off during a post-match program analyzing the greatest comeback win in interstate history.
The Blues’ thrilling 22-20 win seems unlikely had it not been for Ponga’s sending off. The Queensland full-back brought both evenings to a premature end with a shoulder charge on Tolu Koula in the 58th minute.
So why doesn’t “Gus” weigh in on the discussion?
Sources not authorized to speak publicly told this imprint that Gould did not think Ponga’s actions would warrant a send-off. However, given his dual roles in the game – as general manager of football at Canterbury and as a commentator at Nine, this imprint’s broadcaster, while the network is in broadcast talks with the NRL – Gould felt this would put pressure on those organizations at a sensitive time.
By saying nothing, he said everything and presented his opinion without making his employers unfair.
When contacted by this imprint, Gould declined to comment but stated that his position should not be difficult to determine.
Regardless, it has become interesting on television in the post-game program following an Origin match. Other panelists weighed in on the stateside debate: Maroons legend Darren Lockyer called referee Ashley Klein’s decision “confusing,” while his Blues counterpart Brad Fittler felt the onus was on the defender to take care of the ball carrier.
Host James Bracey then turned to Gould for his thoughts.
“Gus, you are heavily involved with the clubs as well, players, is that how they see it?” Bracey asked. “That they have a responsibility as defenders to take care of whoever they’re tackling?”
Gould paused. The previous week, he had succumbed to the media temptation by stepping up to defend the Bulldogs, who were failing after a five-game losing streak. It started with a look 100% Footballhe continued on his way Six Challenges with Gus podcast, resulting in a wide-ranging 90-minute conversation with James Graham. Goodbye tour podcast.
However, Gould remained silent on the issue of Ponga’s dismissal.
“James, if you don’t mind, I suggest you ask someone else rather than me,” Gould replied. “I want you to continue your work.”
This post spread quickly on social media.
Gould has spoiled a lot with his views over the years, whether it’s his criticism of the modern game or his public courting of the so-called West Tigers’ recruitment of Lachlan Galvin. The NRL even implemented what many in rugby league refer to as the “Gus Rule”, an anti-tamper measure that prevents club officials or player representatives from publicly courting contracted players.
Although Gould didn’t weigh in on the final issue, rarely has anyone said so much by saying so little.
