tookey
First Grader
Former Manly owner Max Delmege has labelled ex-coach Des Hasler 'greedy and self-opinionated' in a withering blast delivered in the hours following Canterbury's NRL grand final loss to Melbourne.
Delmege, who estimates he tipped in around $15m to keep the Sea Eagles afloat during the mid-to-late 2000s, accused Hasler of placing financial gain first in deserting the club 12 months ago to join the Bulldogs.
He believes Hasler would have led Manly to back-to-back titles had he stayed at Brookvale.
Posting a message on his Facebook page just 90 minutes after Storm's 14-4 win in the decider, Delmege wrote: "I feel I have to say this. Des Hasler, if you had not been so greedy and self opinionated you would be the coach of the premiers again tonight … the Manly Sea Eagles.
"The players, staff and myself gave you all the support, both personally and financially, to the best of what the present day environment could afford.
"Obviously this was not enough.
"I have given Manly all I can and will continue to do so.
"Why? Because Manly's supporters remain true, faithful and genuine.
"You made an error in judgement in which we forgive you.
"See you next year in the grand final."
Hasler laughed off the comments but refused to return fire.
Meanwhile, the Bulldogs have posted a message on their website thanking members for their support throughout 2012.
The statement read: "Despite (Sunday night's) battle, the Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs were unable to get over the line in what was a tough 80-minute affair against the Melbourne Storm in front of a full house at ANZ Stadium.
"Our team gave their all.
"The Bulldogs would like to take this opportunity to thank our most dedicated supporters, our members.
"Your support, devotion and commitment to the team as well as the passion displayed - not only over the last week but over the last twelve months - played a significant role in this season's success.
"This season the club has achieved a number of milestones and accomplishments that everyone can reflect on and be proud of."
Dogs players took to fancy dress at their Belmore headquarters on Mad Monday as Melbourne returned home to continue the party.
Delmege, who estimates he tipped in around $15m to keep the Sea Eagles afloat during the mid-to-late 2000s, accused Hasler of placing financial gain first in deserting the club 12 months ago to join the Bulldogs.
He believes Hasler would have led Manly to back-to-back titles had he stayed at Brookvale.
Posting a message on his Facebook page just 90 minutes after Storm's 14-4 win in the decider, Delmege wrote: "I feel I have to say this. Des Hasler, if you had not been so greedy and self opinionated you would be the coach of the premiers again tonight … the Manly Sea Eagles.
"The players, staff and myself gave you all the support, both personally and financially, to the best of what the present day environment could afford.
"Obviously this was not enough.
"I have given Manly all I can and will continue to do so.
"Why? Because Manly's supporters remain true, faithful and genuine.
"You made an error in judgement in which we forgive you.
"See you next year in the grand final."
Hasler laughed off the comments but refused to return fire.
Meanwhile, the Bulldogs have posted a message on their website thanking members for their support throughout 2012.
The statement read: "Despite (Sunday night's) battle, the Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs were unable to get over the line in what was a tough 80-minute affair against the Melbourne Storm in front of a full house at ANZ Stadium.
"Our team gave their all.
"The Bulldogs would like to take this opportunity to thank our most dedicated supporters, our members.
"Your support, devotion and commitment to the team as well as the passion displayed - not only over the last week but over the last twelve months - played a significant role in this season's success.
"This season the club has achieved a number of milestones and accomplishments that everyone can reflect on and be proud of."
Dogs players took to fancy dress at their Belmore headquarters on Mad Monday as Melbourne returned home to continue the party.