We feel like a totally different team for the first time since the brief glimmer of GF-making form when Rohan took over. Even if results haven't been massively improved vs this time last season, we genuinely feel like we're in with a chance against any team we play.

Some of the big weaknesses of the last few years have been addressed. The surgery on the pack seems to have finally paid off after years of disappointing signings (Tetevano etc). We're playing as a team a lot more (even Lisone has improved dramatically in the last few games). Connor brings us genuine threat in the halves, and there is a good reason to hope we'll have another string to our bow when Croft returns.


We haven't eradicated all the issues. We're still making too many mistakes when we try to put opposition sides away; instead we frequently end up inviting them back into the contest. Leadership is still needed, especially to close out the games we're winning against the top teams with 10-15 minutes to go. Further surgery on the squad is needed, albeit less drastically than before. We need to sort out the hooking role if Ackers continues to be underwhelming when he returns. We also desperately need a competent goal kicker to replace Rhyse Martin.


Personally I'm hoping Arthur decides to stay for another season. His replacement should be easier in some ways because the team seems to have found a successful groove, so drastic changes may not (hopefully) be as necessary as they were in the past. But I do think I would be more confident if we appoint another NRL-based coach in the style of Arthur, instead of someone with more SL experience.

Warning: This might split opinions, but here’s my take.

Brad Arthur has definitely brought us back to being a proper rugby league team — a far cry from the Rohan Smith era, where it felt like we were trying to reinvent the game. It’s like chalk and cheese. That said, I won’t be too upset when BA eventually moves on.



Let’s be honest, his record at Parramatta was pretty average — about a 50% win rate and just one Grand Final in a decade. Not exactly a legacy-builder. And I don’t think he’s the long-term answer for Headingley either.



BUT… right now, he’s exactly what we need. He’s brought structure, discipline, and a strong work ethic. The players are responding, training hard, and sticking to their roles. That’s no small thing after the chaos of recent seasons.



As for who takes over? No idea — but what’s vital is that we go for someone experienced with a proven track record. We’re too big a club to be handing the reins to someone who’s still learning on the job. Just look at the mess at Saints and our own misfires in the past — we can’t afford that again.



I trust Blease is already planning for what comes next, and fingers crossed he nails the next appointment. I’m fine with BA staying another year, but we shouldn’t go beyond that — especially if the only alternatives are JJB or another “old boy” option.
 

agree with every word

I reckon the young stand ins have gone about their business well. It's almost as if someone's anticipated they might be called on and coached them accordingly..

Agree with most of previous posts.


Leadership abd kicking game seem to be the still present issues.