One for true believers: Matt Dufty enjoys victory after a tight contest in challenging conditions. Credit:NRL Photos

"We mentioned and pointed out recently to everyone that lateness wouldn't be tolerated. People were told to make sure you're on time. We stressed it many, many times. It was a swift decision from 'Mary' [McGregor]. He spoke to Gareth [Widdop] and that was that. The decision was made on the bus. The amount of focus we have been putting on discipline lately, that probably made the decision for Mary a lot easier.

"There's been a little bit of ill-discipline creeping in at the place for the last four or five weeks. We have drawn a line in the sand to make sure we do have our heads screwed on for what is potentially a finals series. You can't have ill-discipline. Mary did mention it many times - not to Josh specifically - but how important it was for us to prepare right."

Dugan is bound for Cronulla next season and has been at loggerheads with club officials at different stages throughout the year over his future.

However, Nightingale insists his heart is still with the Dragons as he approaches his final weeks at the club.