2009 in Review - St George Illawarra Dragons

St George Illawarra Dragons - Minor Premiers (1st) & Semi Finalists

Reasons: Forward in defence: The Dragons showed up with some of the most brutal and tight defence in the NRL throughout the 2009 season. This kept the opposition rolling backwards for the best part of four months, and with the same big boppers rolling forward in attack, their control centre of Jamie Soward was given plenty of time to orchestrate the play. Saint Wayne: A new coach ushered in a new era for this proud club - and was largely responsible for the above change in style. Better discipline and a more controlled game were some of the benefits Wayne Bennett brought south with him after his 21 seasons in Brisbane. He has settled wonderfully in Wollongong, and has quickly become part of the fabric of the club. No