sidelined

The most unsuprising thing about Wayne Bennett’s press conference, announcing he will quit the Broncos at the end of 2008, is that he didn’t turn up.

At least he is going out on his own terms and consistent with usual enagement with the press.

Bennet’s legacy is large. He record at the Broncos deserves praise as does his efforts as the Queensland State of Origin player wrangler. With a game that changes every few seasons, Bennet’s ability to adjust to (and sometimes dictate) the changes cements his credentials as a coach of the ages.

That aside, there were times over the past few years when Bennet saw himself, especially in the way he treated the press, bigger than the game.

I’ll make a wild prediction and Bennett will be a Bulldog in 2009. Folkes is not going to last.