The Serve

Cartwright: Bird laid down

Two of this seasons big issues, diving and grapple tackles, came together in one hit as John Cartwright accused Greg Bird of laying down during the Sharks 28-12 win over the Titans, ending Gold Coast’s prospects of making the eight.

Cartwright, who was generally scathing of referee Jason Robinson, made special mention of an incident in the 28th minute which saw prop Ian Donnelly placed on report for a grapple tackle on Bird.

“Is that the one where Bird (lay) down? I didn’t see anything in it”, said a fuming Cartwright.

“There was nothing wrong with Greg Bird.”

The quote ignited Sharks second rower Paul Gallen to response swiftly.

“That Donnelly (tackle) was a dead set grapple and a head slam. Birdy is one of the toughest blokes around.”

Sharks coach Ricky Stuart played down the incident, blaming the Titans meek exit from the finals race for Cartwright’s comments.

“It’s just a coach disappointed. It was a big night for them. Carty wouldn’t have meant anything by it, I promise you.

“It’s too embarrassing to lay down. (If) there’s ten seconds to go and you’re down by a point, then maybe you can ask the question, but it’s not in Birdy’s character”

Donnelly beat a grapple tackle charge at the NRL judiciary three weeks ago.