Despite intial concerns about our lack of depth and the continual signing of ex-NRL players I really believe that next year will not be all doom and gloom as we now have several players for most positions with our only real weakness being depth in the halves
The positions can be filled by more than one or two options as follows:
Fullback: Jarryd Hayne, Tom Humble, Luke Burt
Wingers : Burt, Chris Hicks, Paul Whatuira, Chris Walker, Jordan Atkins, Jacob Loko, Joel Reddy
Centres : Reddy, Hicks, Whatuira, Walker, Karl Filiga, Reni Maitua
5/8 : Daniel Mortimer, Tom Humble, and Jarryd (though he is not a 5/8)
Halfback : Jeff Robson, Humble, Brad Murray, Casey Mcguire?
Lock: Justin Horo, Shane Shackleton, Maitua
2nd Row : Nathan Hindmarsh, Ben Smith, Shackleton, Justin Poore
Front Row : Fuifui Moimoi, Tim Mannah, Justin Poore, Carl Webb
Hooker : Matt Keating, Anthony Mitchell, Mcguire
So despite the negativity (and I know I've been responsible for my share) I don't think it's the end of the world and can now see the Mighty Blue and Gold making the top eight and giving it a good shake next year, especially with the improvements in the coaching staff as well.
Replies
Good post Brett. Puts things in a little more perspective. Other players may come into contention, but that's the nucleus of a team that has a great chance at being competitive throughout the year.
After reading your post Brett the frontrow looks abit light on depth for mine.If we had 2 injured props at once we would be forced to use guys like Hindy and Shack up front which would be far from ideal.Hopefully Manakafoa can step up and do a job if that happens but from what iv seen he isnt that impressive.
shackleton plays front row too.
Mitchell Allgood is possibly one to add to the list.
He's been playing with Wenty the last few years, and is a handy prop to have with some injuries, and he's coming along nicely.
Apparently we also have some stars in the making in our juniors such as Patrick O'Hanlon who can play a bit and should get a crack if required, and Manuokafoa has first grade experience with the Cowgirls (I just didn't think of more than the 25 players or so listed)
Yeah, we have some talented juniors in both the second row and front row coming through in Patrick O'Hanlon as you said BK, also Rory Brien, Peni Terepo and PJ Asiati, the last two of which are props.
Looking forward to seeing all these young players get a crack down the track.
And don't forget Mortimer @ 7!
Mitchell is................ AllGood
All we need are hard workers with a bit of talent, it will go a long way! These 2011 signings may just do that.
Please do forget that
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