From the Canberra Times...
Canberra Raiders chief executive Simon Hawkins has no doubt Matthew Elliott will see out the season with the Raiders, rejecting claims the Penrith-bound NRL coach is not fully focused on his role in the nation's capital.
Speculation as to Elliott's commitment to the Raiders surfaced this week after Canberra's two horrendous losses and comments from Penrith chief executive Glenn Matthews about the coach's involvement in Panthers recruiting for 2007. Raiders chairman John McIntyre even called on club management to remind Elliott exactly who was paying his salary. The controversy added extra spice to tonight's encounter between the two sides in Canberra.
But Hawkins said Elliott's professionalism and commitment to the Raiders was undeniable, and believes the rumours were a direct result of the club's poor performances over the past fortnight in which they conceded 126 points in losses to Newcastle and the Sydney Roosters.
Panthers CEO Matthews believes Elliott's involvement with Penrith's recruitment has been overstated.
Matthews said the club was more focused on what was happening with the club this season, and believes the same is happening at Canberra.
Hawkins said he was comfortable with Elliott's role with the Panthers.
Committed Coach Assured of Lasting Out the Season
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