Tigers back Lawrence for testimonial game

Senior Wests Tigers players have expressed their desires for a testimonial game for teammate Chris Lawrence.

However, the veteran falls out-of-contract at the end of the 2019 season, with an extension yet to be offered to the 30-year-old.

Lawrence has played his entire career with the Tigers.

Joining the club in 2006, he has played 227 games and barring injury is in line to play his 250^th in season 2019.

With South Sydney’s John Sutton set to be honoured for his commitment to the Rabbitohs in a testimonial at Redfern Oval this weekend, several Tigers have said Lawrence should be next in line.

“If you ask any fan who they think is the most passionate at this club, they’d say Chris Lawrence,” club legend Benji Marshall told the Brisbane Times.

“I was actually filthy ‘Sutto’ (John Sutton) hadn’t had one yet because of what he had done for South Sydney.

“If you play for your club that long like Sutto has, you’re entitled to one, and Chris Lawrence is exactly the same.

“Through thick and thin he’s been here the longest, he’s been through the highs and lows, and drives the standards here at training like nobody I’ve seen.

“It’s fitting, and if Sutto is allowed to have one, he should have one.”

283-gamer Robbie Farah echoed Marshall’s comments.

“It would be awesome for ‘Rowdy’ to have one.

"He’s a Campbelltown boy and I remember him making his debut as a 17-year-old when he was still in high school.

“I don’t see him leaving. It’s something we should promote in the game… we should reward loyalty.”

Lawrence will be forced to wait until the NRL announces the action to be taken against Tigers’ chief executive Justin Pascoe, and the club’s salary breaches, to begin contract discussions.

He told the Brisbane Times of his desire to stay a one-club player.

“I think I’ve still got at least another couple of years left in me, I’ve only been at this club, I’d love to stay, and hopefully it takes care of itself,” Lawrence said.

“I'd never say never (about going elsewhere). As everyone knows in today's game, footy can change from month to month.

“As players we need to learn to be open, even though you don't want to be at times.

“I'd never say never because it might not be my decision. But I'd love to stay here.''