Tigers’ Lawrence prepared to take pay cut

Off contract and facing an uncertain future, Wests Tigers veteran Chris Lawrence has declared he’s prepared to take a pay cut to remain loyal to his beloved club beyond this NRL season.

Having debuted for the Tigers as a 17-year-old and devoted all 14 years of his career to the joint venture, the Campbelltown junior signalled his determination to move heaven and earth to remain at Concord.

As he ventured on a lap of Leichhardt Oval after Sunday’s 25-8 defeat to Cronulla, which spoiled the Tigers’ finals hopes, the 30-year-old did so knowing it could be his last game for the side.

Coach Michael Maguire stated his desire for Lawrence to remain on their books, with his experience appearing especially vital given hooker Robbie Farah on Sunday hung up his boots.

However he hinted there were salary cap issues at play after it was last week reported that the club had tabled an initial bargain contract worth $100,000 before issuing an upgraded offer.

“We’ve spoken to Chrissy and I can only fit in (what’s in) the salary cap,” Maguire said.

“If players want to play to that, I want them here.”

And Lawrence admitted he might have take below market value to remain loyal to the orange, black and whites.

“I want to play football, my objective is to play at the Tigers,” Lawrence said.

“Both parties are going to have to take sacrifices here and there, which I’ve done in the past.

“If it means I’ll need to do it again, I’ll do it again to stay at the club I love.”

Lawrence said there was a chance that Sunday’s match was his last for the club but felt like he was still capable of contributing.

“There is a chance but I want to stay at the club, I’ll do everything and leave no stone unturned to hopefully make that happen,” Lawrence said.

“We’ll let the dust settle on the year and chat to the club.

“For me, I still feel I can add to the club and help drive these young guys.”

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