'Didn't think he could play': Maligned coach's son shocks great after pre-season performance
Kyle Flanagan has earned high praise from league great Greg Alexander after his role in St George Illawarra's eye-catching trial win on Sunday night.
The five-eighth scored a try and set up another two as the Dragons recorded a 26-8 victory against the Roosters on their home turf at Kogarah Oval.
The 26-year-old has been criticised for large portions of his career but hit the ground running alongside new halves partner Lachlan Ilias to kick-start the campaign.
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Kyle Flanagan celebrates with teammates during the trial. Getty
Speaking on SEN Radio in the wake of the pre-season fixtures, Alexander admitted he had concerns over Flanagan's ability, but believes he could be in for a big 2025.
"[He is] someone that I didn't think could play [like that]," the Panthers legend said.
"There's a lot of pressure on the Dragons' halves this year. I thought Kyle Flanagan was basically a limited player but last year, he had a good year for Kyle Flanagan.
"Last night against the Roosters, he scored a try and had two try assists in the first half hour of play. He also set up those two tries with a pass and a kick.
"I don't know if he would be playing first grade if he was at any other club. Whatever Shane and the influence he has, he is getting the absolute best out of his son and I think he's going to have a good year ... Shane has got him playing his best football.
Dragons head coach Shane Flanagan. Getty
"Kyle couldn't have done any more on Sunday night. They jumped to an 18-nil lead very early in that game and I was impressed with the Dragons.
"The defence of both Ilias and Flanagan was outstanding."
The coach's son played the majority of last season alongside Ben Hunt, who registered 30 try assists compared to Flanagan's four and was the more dominant playmaker.
However, with the former skipper finally getting a release from the Dragons, the weight appears to have been lifted from Flanagan's shoulders heading into this season.
Flanagan and Ilias are expected to play in the Charity Shield on Saturday, before all eyes turn to their season opener against the Bulldogs on March 8.
