WANNA know what has really rankled those South Sydney players who were dumped for breaking a zero-tolerance alcohol ban last week? Several players, including co-captain Roy Asotasi, were spotted tying one on at the Golden Sheaf in Double Bay last Saturday night. Asotasi and Roosters forward Willie Mason were arm in arm, knocking back schooners, followed by chasers, followed by schooners followed by … Our operative identified another five Souths players. Sure, it was a day off and they breached no protocols, but Asotasi's form has hardly gone down well with those who cannot see the sense in dropping players for having a few quiet drinks after the loss to Brisbane while others then went and hammered themselves. Souths co-owner Peter Holmes a Court gave former captain Sean Garlick a dressing down for daring to suggest in the press that the club had set itself up for a fall by introducing the rule.

Tim in good spirits

One bloke who no longer has to abide by such pesky grog bans is Tim Smith, who was back in town at the weekend and seen having a few quiet drinks at a Winston Hills pub on Saturday afternoon. The former Eels halfback, who has quit the game indefinitely as he battles bipolar disorder, was in good spirits and bought tickets in the meat tray raffle. When one of the ticket sellers joked that he could afford to buy plenty, Smith joked back: "Nah mate, I haven't got a contract these days." He also chatted with some junior league players and their parents, who were at the hotel. Smith was in town with his father to collect his personal items after fleeing Sin City last month. He was also in town to attend the birthday of former teammate Feleti Mateo.

Ennis for the exit

The Bulldogs will shortly announce that they have signed Broncos hooker Michael Ennis - and take it as a sure sign that Brisbane are feeling vice-like pressure when it comes to their groaning salary cap. They had an option in their favour to keep Ennis after this year but had no choice but to let him go. The Doggies will be Ennis's fourth club in six seasons.

Weekend warrior: Jarrod Mullen

You're the new favourite to be the NSW halfback. Andrew Johns has been talking you up all morning …I hope not. I wish he was downplaying it. I don't think I'm any chance, to be honest.

This time last year, you were under plenty of pressure after he retired. Has it become easier?Yeah, for sure. There was plenty of pressure on me last year, especially in the lead-up to the first Origin so it's been easier this year not to have any of that hype.

That field goal at 12-6 was a masterstroke.Mate, I can't take any credit for it. When the message came out, I thought it was too early to take it. But I'm glad I did what I was told.

You've just turned 21 - it's downhill from here. It feels that way. I turned 21 on a Wednesday so I didn't end up having a party at all.

And what are you doing on your day off? My girlfriend's about to give me a massage … Bye.