Seems an ideal time to rest Ellis tbh. He's not been at his best over the last month but was great at start of year and as good as anyone in the WCC. He's gone from being a spelled prop to a big minutes forward and that transition wont just happen immediately for him.

Three great options to bring in for Byrne I reckon.

Cooper - big game player, plenty of experience. Started in the WCC and played great.

Hill - been in great for this year, would bring energy and work rate, played in the playoff semi win against KR last year

Walters - massive backrow/front row hybrid, big potential and had a brilliant season last year.


I’d lean Hill but all 3 are good options.

The CC semi against them last year we only had Byrne and Ellis as out and out props. Mago at the time couldn’t be trusted and played very few minutes and Hill was unused.

Compare that to Thompson, Ellis, Dupree, Havard, Cooper/Hill it’s night and day.

I have no doubt that Coops will play, big game experience is vital. If we start fast and play to our potential we will be Wembley bound.

A bit harsh on Hill who hasn't put a foot wrong but I agree that Cooper will play, and on balance I think that's the right call.

It was great to see O'Neill and Leeming play so well in the same side last weekend. I was never particularly concerned about having 140 props because you expect to pick up injuries and bans there as the season goes on, but as soon as we signed Leeming I wondered how we would manage giving him enough game time alongside O'Neill when one of his strengths is that he can do big minutes.

I think O'Neill will make a brilliant 13 ,good hands and great fitness to tackle anything that moves.

It's great to have options, agreed Cooper will replace Byrne, Hill and Walters will be in the team for Salford