The Wire in Bondi

15/08/2025

Warrington need to do whatever they can to keep this guy next season, not only is he a very good player, but you can already tell he has the right attitude and determination that can make a big difference.

Sadly, at the moment Matterson is still contracted to the Parramatta Eels next season and he’s also on $600,000 a year, so it could be tough to keep him. However, Eels coach Jason Ryles does seem to be moving forward with younger players and a vision for the club over the next few years rather than playing a player who may only be there for one more season.

He has also confirmed that he would be open to staying in England if the terms were right; fingers crossed that’ll be at the Wire.

13/08/2025

Happy Birthday to Wire legend and hall of famer Bob Jackson 🥳🏉🟡🔵

Listen to Bob tell his story of playing for Warrington on The Wire in Bondi podcast.

https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/the-wire-in-bondi/id1752611582?i=1000704273447

10/08/2025

Warrington Wolves Academy 10 wins out of 10 games - maybe we need to start looking at the bigger picture 😊🏉🟡🔵

06/08/2025

Why is it always us? - Many Warrington fans are likely pondering this question, particularly in light of recent events.

The latest incident involves Matt Dufty being stood down for the upcoming game against Wigan, which follows the Musgrove incident, Burgess being reprimanded for his behavior in Vegas, and various other rumours that have surfaced throughout the season. According to reports, Dufty was running late for training on the Saturday following the Leigh game and was told by Sam that his attendance was not crucial, resulting in his standing down for this Friday's game.

Fans will undoubtedly debate whether this infraction warrants such severe consequences, especially considering Dufty's importance to the team and the fact that a win is essential for any slim chance of reaching the top six. It is uncertain whether this incident is an isolated one or if it is indicative of more profound issues with the star fullback. What is clear, however, is that this development adds to the growing list of problems the club has faced this season, raising questions about the underlying issues within the Warrington Wolves.

Some may argue that the club's culture is flawed, but this criticism is not supported by evidence from last season. In fact, attempts to change the supposedly toxic culture under Steve Price have been disputed by players from that era, who describe the dressing room as a positive and enjoyable environment.

This season, however, has been marred not only by disciplinary issues but also by a decline in performance, with the team falling to eighth in the table despite having the best defense and attack in 2024. The attack can be attributed to injuries and changes to the backline, but the defense, which relies on attitude and teamwork, has been notably absent this season, is this down to a bad dressing room environment.

Fans will be seeking answers that question and several others, including whether Dufty will return the following week, if the team can beat Wigan without him, and most importantly, whether Sam can reverse the team's fortunes and if he will be given the time to do so.

04/08/2025

Here he is - Toafofoa Sipley, with the signing now confirmed on a two-year contract. As a player I have regularly observed at Manly, it is evident that he possesses a substantial physical presence.

Several individuals have already inquired about his abilities, and the straightforward response is that he’s a good player, although it is unlikely that he will replicate the minutes Vaughan has been logging. Sipley typically averages 30-40 minutes for Manly, often entering the game from the bench.

Personally, I believe we have been expecting Vaughan to play an excessive number of minutes.
Ideally, a squad should comprise four forwards each week, with two starting and two on the bench, allowing for the optimal management of each player's minutes to ensure maximum energy levels while on the field. Perhaps this season we have not achieved the ideal balance in this regard, but with Sipley joining the team, along with the signings of Pangai Junior and apparently Liam Byrne, and the presence of players like Philbin, Wood, Harrison and not forgetting Yates, whom Sam frequently utilizes as a forward, we may witness a more balanced pack.

However, it is challenging to assess any player transitioning from the NRL until we observe their performance firsthand. Nevertheless, it is encouraging that we are addressing the issue of our lightweight pack this season, and hopefully, as the Manly faithful have stated, we will see Sipley the best. 🙂🏉🟡🔵

30/07/2025

This would be a big statement signing🤞🏉🟡🔵

28/07/2025

Micky Higham a man who has played for Saints, Wigan, Warrington and Leigh. Big rivals but he’s loved by all, shows what a legend he is.

https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/emma-worrall-2?utm_medium=CR&utm_source=FB&fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAR7Slm_Na8VcdvSnLK5zLYDhLW1fZI4fu4RrfIvC7suhqmkxmD_MFRHIOLGLTg_aem_KlRYMYPF4rkQW_58TebrNAtn cky

Iʼm raising money to Together for Micky Higham – Fundraising for Treatment, his Family & Cancer Research. Support this JustGiving Crowdfunding Page.

27/07/2025

Next seasons new forwards?

Liam Byrne is a potential signing that has been discussed throughout the season, although it remains unconfirmed. Having played over 100 times for Wigan and won the Super League and Challenge Cup, he could bring vital experience. However, Wigan fans seem unconcerned about his potential departure.

Tevita Pangai Junior has been confirmed for next season, but only on a one-year deal, which may be due to his desire to play under Sam, whose contract also expires in 2026. Currently with Catalans, he has not had a significant impact this season, but his 147 NRL appearances and selection for NSW suggest he’s a top player. If Sam can optimize his performance, he could be a valuable signing.

Toafofoa Sipley is currently the subject of rumors, but his contract expires at the end of the year, and Manly have not looked like wanting to extend despite his regular appearances. With nearly 100 NRL appearances, Sipley is a forward who can make an impact off the bench. Given Warrington's need for forwards, he could help strengthen our pack for next season.

25/07/2025

New The Wire in Bondi podcast - The Fan Debate (Open Letter Special) 😊🏉🟡🔵

I’m joined by Warrington Wolves fans Charlie & Kelan who sent an open letter to Warrington Chairman Stuart Middleton.

We discuss the issues they brought up in the letter, why they wrote the letter and what they hope to achieve with this.

https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/the-wire-in-bondi/id1752611582?l=en-GB&i=1000718977640

24/07/2025

Ohh Georgie Williams - The news of him staying for next season is seemingly a positive development, but it raises questions about how the fans feel.

When Williams joined the Wire in July 2021, the majority of Warrington fans were ecstatic, believing he would lead the team to Grand Final glory, given his previous success with Wigan. Unfortunately, that has not been the case.

While Williams cannot be solely blamed for the team's performance, his signing was followed by a coaching change, then the Powell years, it was only last season that Warrington had a genuine chance of success. During that period, Williams consistently demonstrated his exceptional skills, and his absence when injured has been deeply felt this year. Despite this, some fans may still be disappointed by his initial desire to leave, especially given he’s the captain.

Now knowing though that he will be leaving at the end of 2026 provides the team with sufficient time to plan and recruit a suitable replacement, either through a new signing or by developing youth players. However, the issue is not isolated to Williams, as the team's Head Coach has also been contemplating departure, which has exacerbated the frustration among fans.

It is essential for both Sam and George to publicly reaffirm their commitment to the club, ensuring that if they do leave at the end of 2026, the team will be in a stable position, as obviously right now that isnt the case.

Although the situation remains uncertain, Williams' drop goal against Saints in the playoffs last season was a highlight of his time with the Wire, and there may still be more moments to come.

23/07/2025

Off-contract players - who would you keep?

Paul Vaughan - Vaughan has been linked to a lucrative move to York, although the outcome may depend on the Super League's potential expansion to 14 teams. Nevertheless, the reported financial offer for a player nearing the end of his career could be difficult to decline.

Jordy Crowther - Crowther appears to be interested in staying, having been a regular first-team player this season. However, he has been required to cover various positions and is currently sidelined due to injury.

Stefan Ratchford - As a club legend, Ratchford will likely transition into the coaching setup if he decides not to continue playing. It is probable that the club will allow Ratchford to make this decision.

Sam Powell - It would be surprising if Powell were offered a new contract. Although he has been solid and brought valuable experience, many fans may prefer Ben Hartill as the backup ho**er for Danny Walker moving forward.

Toby King - King has struggled with a persistent injury this season, limiting his appearances. However, on his day, he remains a high-class centre. Nevertheless, the club has several young players waiting to assume this role. King has also been linked to Saints this season, making his future uncertain.

Rodrick Tai - According to reports, Tai wishes to stay, and Sam Burgess also wants him to remain. While Tai has been solid defensively, questions regarding his attacking capabilities persist.

Connor Wrench - Having recently returned from injury, Wrench has yet to reach his full potential. However, fans recognize the possibility of him becoming a world-class player and are willing to be patient.

22/07/2025

The fan debate is back this week and there maybe a certain letter getting spoken about 😊🏉🟡🔵

Like and subscribe guys to never miss an episode.

https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/the-wire-in-bondi/id1752611582?l=en-GB