Seibold wins over Bennett’s backers

2006. Even Brisbane skipper Darius Boyd – Bennett’s greatest supporter and playing ally – believes Seibold has brought a more detailed approach to the Broncos.

Bennett returns to face Brisbane this week for the first time since his Broncos sacking eight months ago in charge of a Souths side on the ropes after their shock loss to Canterbury last Saturday night.

Bennett’s axing last December was expected to trigger a player exodus with his most dedicated disciples, such as Matt Lodge, Tevita Pangai Jr and Payne Haas, tipped to follow the super coach to Redfern.

Instead, all three have stayed loyal to the Broncos. Haas has vowed to honour his six-year deal, while Lodge and Pangai last month signed new contracts in a $4 million retention drive that doubled as a show of faith in Seibold’s title blueprint.

Lodge said he would always be indebted to Bennett for resurrecting his career after his New York rampage in 2015, but was relishing the winds of change under Seibold at the Broncos. “Wayne’s gone,” Lodge said. “He’s coaching the opposition this week so good luck to Wayne, but he has got nothing to do with what we are doing now.

“I loved my time with Wayne but I’m loving my time with Seibs as well.

“It’s a new era ... and Wayne is not leading it.”

Front-row sensation Haas added: “Seibs has brought accountability. He is straight down the middle. You have to do your job and if you don’t do your job, he holds you accountable.”