The Jackson Hastings question that tipped Manly Sea Eagles coach Trent Barrett over the edge after Parramatta Eels loss
Angry Manly coach Trent Barrett doesn’t appear likely to lift his NRL black-ban on controversial utility Jackson Hastings despite the Sea Eagles’ season threatening to spiral out of control.
Barrett was in an ordinary mood as it was after watching his team crash 44-10 to the previously winless Parramatta when the inevitable Hastings questions started coming his way at the post-match press conference.
Would he now consider Hastings for selection despite initially stating the 22-year-old would spend the season in the NSW Cup after a blow-up with captain Daly Cherry-Evans in Gladstone?
“The last game only finished five minutes ago, mate, so I haven’t really thought about the side next week,” Barrett snapped.
Sporting News then stepped up to ask whether the door was open to Hastings ‘down the track’?
Barrett’s eyes narrowed as he said through gritted teeth: “Can I just say one thing again.
“The incident in Gladstone was the straw that broke the camel’s back.
“This isn’t an isolated thing where I’ve gone bang, bang and made a decision.
“There have been things leading up to that. That’s all I’m going to say about it.
“Who I pick next week…I will sit down on Tuesday and pick a side.
“I will not be answering another question on it.”
Skipper Cherry-Evans, who was fined $10,000 for his part in the Gladstone skirmish, was not spared the inquisition.
He insisted all was good between him and Hastings.
“Mate, it’s fine. We cleared the air straight away,” he said.
“It was a shame to see so much written about it considering how quickly we moved on.
“There was no lingering awkwardness. And we certainly didn’t leave it as an excuse to play poorly today, no way.
“I’ve copped it all on the chin. I’ve accepted the punishment.
“I’m certainly not proud of what’s happened. The best way I can respond is to try and play some good football.
“While that certainly wasn’t the case today, I can’t wait for next week to come.
“It won’t come quick enough. (We need to) get our season back on track and show everyone what we’re capable of.”
Hastings scored a try and had a hand in two others in helping Blacktown Workers to a resounding win over Wyong on Saturday.
His ability to play a number of positions could prove valuable for Manly, who added centre/winger Brad Parker (knee) to their growing injury list.
Manly have conceded 114 points in dropping their last three games to Gold Coast, Wests Tigers and Parramatta.
The Sea Eagles meet Newcastle at Lottoland on Friday night.
