Exeter Rhino wrote:Whatever we think of Smith, it looks like (from the outside) that both O'Connor and Walters were poorly used and developed under Agar. Thankfully they have both been able to ressurect their careers.
O'Connor's strengths were recognised by Smith, and injuries to Leeming and wayward form from Dwyer gave him the chance he needed.
Smith was the first coach to realise that Walters could be used effectively as a makeshift prop - it's a shame he had fewer opportunities this season, but it's understandable why. When used last season Walters was directly responsible for several soft tries being conceded through 'clocking off' in goal line defence or at marker. He also had a few better and more reliable players ahead of him, although I would have liked to retain Walters if possible since he has he has a bit of an x-factor about his game.
Not only that, he is prepared to make tough calls based on the long term future. Too many Leeds coaches of recent years have been too loyal to underperforming players, and he doesn't seem to tolerate that too much.
I'm still undecided about Smith, I really swing between. I was at Wigan away earlier in the season and at half time, I thought he would be sacked after the game. Then we can back and won in the second half. The season is so unpredictable!