The Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs are standing firmly behind Stephen Crichton after a week of intense scrutiny following a delayed contrary conduct charge. Initially escaping punishment after a Round 25 incident, Crichton was hit with a grade-one charge on Monday, sparking a wave of commentary questioning his character.

However, Bulldogs players have vehemently defended their star centre, dismissing claims that Crichton is a “grub” – a term used to describe a player perceived as unsportsmanlike or disrespectful. The support comes as the club navigates the fallout from the delayed charge and strives to maintain team unity heading into the off-season.

“He’s not a grub, not at all,” said Bulldogs captain Josh Jackson, echoing the sentiments of several teammates. “Stephen’s a great young man, a great teammate, and he’s got a lot of respect for the game. These accusations are just unfair.”

The controversy stems from an incident during the Bulldogs’ match against the Melbourne Storm. While the exact details remain subject to interpretation, the NRL’s match review committee ultimately deemed Crichton’s actions worthy of a minor sanction. The delay in the charge, however, fueled speculation and intensified the debate surrounding the incident.

Adding another layer to the story is Crichton’s background. Raised in a devout Christian household, his father is a pastor. This detail has been brought up by some commentators, seemingly attempting to portray Crichton in a negative light. However, Crichton’s teammates are quick to defend his integrity and emphasize the positive influence of his upbringing.

“Stephen’s family are fantastic people,” Jackson added. “His dad is a great man, and he’s instilled strong values in Stephen. He’s a role model for a lot of young kids.”

The Bulldogs’ strong defense of Crichton is a testament to the tight-knit bond within the team. It also highlights the importance of supporting players through challenging situations, especially when faced with public criticism. Coach Cameron Ciraldo has also publicly backed Crichton, emphasizing the player’s commitment to the club and his ongoing development.

The grade-one charge will result in a minimal fine for Crichton, but the reputational damage is what the Bulldogs are keen to mitigate. The club and the players are determined to ensure that the narrative surrounding Crichton shifts from one of controversy to one of resilience and unwavering support.

As the NRL season draws to a close, the Bulldogs can look forward to a refreshed and united squad, with Stephen Crichton continuing to be a vital part of their plans. The incident serves as a reminder of the pressures faced by professional athletes and the importance of community and support in navigating those challenges.