Dave K. wrote:You have watched Balmforth for 25 minutes in which he carried the ball twice and made 5 tackles, he is an 18 year old kid playimg bottom of the league in a dominant display. I think you ate getting carried away.
Big risk to no with him and Lovodua (who has hardly played at hooker) next season.
Think we need to either keep Houghton or replace him.
But if he stays he needs resting to get the best out if him.
It's easy to get carried away with youngsters. The step from 18 to 20 is hard for any young lad but for a professional athlete a lot can happen in that time. Balmforth looks the real deal but he isn't there yet.
I think having Houghton but spelling him with Balmforth would be ideal. Lovadua (hopefully), MacNamara and Hookem can cover the position.
It'd have to be a big signing to replace Mint, say Brad Dwyer or Sam Powell. I can't see either of them coming to us which means someone from the NRL. That'll be expensive and a risk and it might mean Denive not getting much time on the pitch.
Pragmatically, Houghton goes round again for me.