Tbf, 42 first team games for Rovers is more than most youngsters promoted to the fringes of the squad ever make.

Where it goes wrong is potential being overhyped and then excessive disappointment when a high proportion of kids don’t make it in SL. There were frequent calls for Oakes to be given more opportunities this year, until it became clear there’s parts of his game that need work. I hope he makes it, but when I see people talk about him as a future international... well, it’s premature at best.

Marsh is the same generation, give or take, as Logan, Lancaster, HTW, Turgut, Downs, Dean et al. So we’re far from alone in this.

I would be surprised if TS hasn't already got replacements lined up. I suspect that they will be better players and therefore command higher salaries hence the big clear out. Perhaps some of the players that were being touted throughout the season are back in the frame.

So is Todd staying then? I see he’s not the clearout list. I’m very observant you see.

I agree. Cutting out the deadwood is a non negotiable if we are to progress. We need 4-5 quality signings now and I don't mean cast offs from other middle eight clubs.

I agree but we need to find good players but we’re from that’s the problem

I think ‘deadwood’ is unnecessarily harsh on lads who helped us to promotion and/or SL survival.

That said, we do need to improve to challenge higher up the table. But as a lot of clubs are finding, and Someday notes, quality is hard to find. The number of youngsters coming through and becoming established has been low these last few years. It’s been a long-term problem for us, but it seems to be right across SL now. Add to that, a steady trickle of the best of British heading to the NRL and a choice of reserve graders with the right passport to come the other way, and it is really tough. it’s tough for everyone at least, so that is some consolation.