I said all last year, Partington offer loads of effort, aggressions and a good engine, but he has zero go forward. He's isn't a big loss at all.

For me powell only offers solid defence. He kills most attacks as he's so slow and predictable

Genuine question…

Why is it that the likes of Peet, Wane, Briers think so highly of him then?

I don’t disagree but they obviously see something in Powell that some people don’t.

Also, where does O’Neil need to improve to convince them he’s the better option?

They are mates off the field.

Nonsense

I wish i could answer that question, as i don't see what he brings offensively and I'm not alone in that view and thats just on this forum
And regarding O'Neil i really don't know. I thought it was a very poor decision to drop him for powell in the semi final especially after powell was out for weeks

O'Neill needs to get better defensively and needs to up his want and bravery, something Powell has in abundance but is not a good hooker.

It is often what a player does for the team around them, not just in work rate but in experience, influence and spirit. These are the things the coaches see but fans do not.

Imo that’s what Powell offers that O’Neil cannot do yet.

There’s enough experience in the squad for people to step up. Some of the younger lads are now experienced professionals. O’Neill brings something different to the team and we should be able to accommodate him.

I must have missed the games where the team raised their games when Powell played.