Dave K. wrote:
Think our pack could actually be ok, if (big if) we can sort out the discipline. Thought yellow card aside Ese Ese was good (can't see his stats on the SL site), Sao offloaded loads and Ashworth was decent. Ock was hit and miss did some good things, but also bad moments. Can't judge him on one game.
Our real issue in our backs and halfbacks, backs aren't big or strong enough, dominated nearly every tackle, although thought Martin did well. But having 3 out of 4 starting backs doesn't help. Walker is like Briscoe, all heart, but not sure he has the creative skills to be a top fullback.
Halfbacks are a real issue, desperately need Trueman back, can't fully judge Brown on that game, but I'd be looking to play him 9.
IMO our best pivots would be
1 Hoy
6 Trueman
7 Smith
9/13 Brown/Houghton
Let's be honest with our best side we are at best in about 8th place, a few injuries like we have already 10th/11th.
Not 100% convinced by Smith, but can't see anyone better, he has to improve us this year and get recruitment right.
Could really do with Pearson finding some money from somewhere to bring in 3 quality overseas players and a couple of domestic ones.
I know we are running with no halfbacks but to have a backline of McIntosh,Scott,litten and Martin must surely make us the laughing stock of S/L
Tuimavave and Sutcliffe on paper sounds a bit better but in reality they are no worldbeaters
I also have to say im not convinced with Smith.he is too laid back.We need passion that drives the players and he seems unable to stop the on field indiscipline.
Smith was in his past years a top coach but are we seeing any improvement on the field since he arrived and you have to say no.
Think the game has passed him by
