Look looking ahead with some players returning from injury. What would be our best bench when we're at full strength?
I would have: Smith, Papali'i, Niukore, Kaufusi
As much as I think Papali'i deserves to start instead of Materson I just think our bench is better balanced with him there as he can play in the middle. With Kaufusi and Niukore we have 3 middles. I love the fact we have all positions covered if there are injuries during a game. Smith can cover any of the spine and with Niukore we can be confident that we have cover for injuries to centres or wingers.
The strength of the reserves indicate how much depth we have this year with Cartwright, Stone, Hipgrave and Grieg not making the best 17.
Replies
I think 3 places are locked in the others might get rotated depending on the game and opposition.
I'm a big Stone fan I hope he gets a few more chance's
The best part is the age of the bench apart from Smith they are all young with careers ahead
Offside I assume you’re 3 are above. You have no place for Cartwright or do you see him as a starter?
Well i think the 3 are right in Kaufusi, Papali'i and Cartwright.
With the 17 spot a long battle of Smith, Hipgrave, Stone and Greig. it all depends on what we need, we need size name Greig, need defence name Stone, need some experience name Hipgrave, need cover for hooker or a half that is not 100% or want an attacking option to come into the middle name Smith, i think Arthur has alot of versitiility to name who he pleases in that 17 spot based on the opposition
However i believe Smith will be the one named their most weeks.
Papa
Kaufusi
Cartwright
Greig / Hipgrave
Marata still playing centre unless H Perham unseats him
Stone if any above injured
Blake will go back to center when fit.
My bench would be
14. Cartwright
15. Niukore
16. Kaufusi
17. Lane
Back ups in order
18. Hipgrave
19. Greig
20. Penisini
Blake... mmmm not sure if he should automatically slot in, I understand the speed is lacking but jeez his defence is shocking. I do think we are playing a better brand of footy without him, into reggies until he learns his position @4 cause Simba is killing it and we also gain an extra fwd with Simba at 4
100% Agree. Cart covers backs if needed and Lane and Matterson should interchange each other and play their preferred side.
Cartwright needs to be in the 17.
Not yet, stays on the bench for at 3 more rounds
umm the bench is part of the 17 mate