Mr. Zucchini Head wrote:I'm not sure thats true.
This is the same team more or less that were most definately good enough in 2016/17. We have lost 3 key players, but 3 players dont make a team, and whilst Westerman and Faraimo might not quite be in the same class as Ellis and Fonua they are still good players that a lot SL clubs would be interested in if they were available.
In the first half of the year before injuries really bit we were there or there abouts. Lately we have looked sorry for ourselves, desperate to be put out of our misery. I think its been more an attitude/motivational issue than a quality one. Connor coming back immediately seemed to give us a bit of fight again.
There are things we need to do differently, and there are players in the squad that for various reasons aren't up to it imo, but when fit I still think we can put out a 17 that is up there in the top 3 or 4 teams on paper, and Connor, Taylor and Kelly would be stars for any team in the league, and plenty of NRL ones too. Its not a squad of duds. I am willing to give us the benefit of the doubt, but I expect us to set off like a train next season. If we aren't top 5 by Easter then I think it will be time to call it a day with Radford and find someone who can push us on.
Good sensible post, its a pity we dont have more like this instead of some screaming babies who dont like any form of criticism of the players.
My view is based on not replacing probably our best front row in Liam Watts and being too dependent on two players Kelly and Connor.
We are also desperately in need of some pace in the backs and if we dont sign a new Super League quality wing/centre for next season then i would play Miloudi in place of Talanoa.Its not ideal as both are useless defenders but Miloudi gives us more pace and is difficult to tackle when going forward.
I like the way the club have signed two very good 18 year old pacy wings and the young props.To think we have a 19 yearold ,20 year old and Masi who is 21 who should all be playing reserve rugby next season is good for the future of the club but my post referred to next season.
People forget that other teams are strengthening and refreshing their squads for next season and i think 2019 will be a lot more competitive as Salford,Wakefield,Leeds and Catalan will come into the mix thats why unless we add a quality Front row,second row and back into the first team squad
and some new ideas introduced into our playing style by the coaching staff then i will stick with my opinion.