Gorden Tallis Snubs Michael Maguire’s Peace Offering as Broncos Coaching Rift Deepens

Former Broncos legend Gorden Tallis has declined an olive branch extended by incoming Brisbane Broncos coach Michael Maguire after the two unexpectedly crossed paths at the NRL Grand Final last Sunday.

Tallis, who has been outspoken in his criticism of the club’s decision to part ways with his former teammate and outgoing head coach Kevin Walters, remains firm in his stance. Walters, a Broncos icon, had a close relationship with Tallis during their playing days, and his departure has not sat well with the former forward.

Maguire, looking to smooth things over and establish a positive relationship with Tallis as he prepares to take over the reins at the Broncos, offered a gesture of reconciliation. However, Tallis has rejected the overture, signaling that his loyalty to Walters and dissatisfaction with the club’s handling of the coaching change outweigh any desire for a fresh start under Maguire.

The tension between Tallis and the Broncos’ hierarchy reflects a broader dissatisfaction among some of the club’s former players, who feel that Walters deserved more time to guide the team to success.

Maguire, known for his no-nonsense coaching style, now faces the added challenge of winning over key figures within the club’s old guard as he takes on one of the most prestigious roles in the NRL.