Bennett turns the heat up on Broncs

WAYNE Bennett doesn’t even own a barbecue, but that hasn’t stopped the Brisbane coach’s grilling habits from becoming the latest chapter in the soap opera surrounding his future and reportedly fractured relationship with club chief executive Paul White.

Ahead of tonight’s allimportant clash with South Sydney, the Broncos mentor gave his side of the story after reports surfaced that players, led by captain Darius Boyd, had opted to dine at his house instead of attending White’s club function last Friday.

The move has been interpreted by many as a power play by Boyd in the tug of war between coach and club as Bennett, contracted until the end of next season, reportedly fights for his future at Red Hill.

Bennett laughed off the significance of “BBQ-gate”, but conceded he had been caught off guard by the players’ impromptu visit. He said players weren’t required to attend White’s social event and were free to do as they pleased.

“I thought it was a gee-up, boys being boys ... (but) at about 6pm they started rocking in,” he said.

Bennett said he had told White last Thursday he would not be attending the club function due to prior commitments.

“We had a great night, enjoyed each other’s company and I’m pleased we did it,” Bennett said of the players’ visit.

The clash of engagements has added another twist to a tale that also has Rabbitohs coach Anthony Seibold touted as Bennett’s replacement.

Barbecues aside, an exasperated Bennett has turned up the heat on Brisbane’s hierarchy over their handling of his future.

But Bennett, this week linked to a possible St George return, was critical of the circus that has surrounded his position for most of the season as the eighth-placed Broncos face missing the finals for just the third time in 27 years.

“My option is to be here, simple as that. This is the club I want to be at,” Bennett said.

“Last time I left (to coach the Dragons in 2009), I left for similar reasons, but made the decision to leave so this (sort of distraction) wouldn’t happen.

“I made it easy for them last time. I’m not doing it this time.”

Bennett said he was tired of fronting up to questions about his tenure.

“That disappoints me enormously – I have to come here and defend myself and nobody else will answer the questions I can’t answer,” he said