A big topic of discussion has been where we would end up on the ladder for 2016. I've been at odds deciding on how competitive we will be, so i thought I'd take a more deeper look at our roster.
Spine - Goal kicking and FB position.
Gordon / Norman / Foran / Peats
I think one telling factor last year was our in-ability to kick goals, we probably lost at least two games with poor goal kicking especially at the back end of the season when we were still a chance of making the 8. We have recruited probably one of the most accurate goal kickers in the game. The other factor is Gordon brings a heap of experience to the FB position which was a major weakness for us. Foran and Norman will speak for themselves. Peats as many have discussed has a lot to prove, but we have recruited well to cover if he gets injured. Could this be a top 5 spine?
Backline - Backline speed was a real issue for us last year
Semi / Jennings / Taka / Gutherson
If the rumors of a Semi / Jennings combination is true and these two can get clicking then that is the deadliest left edge in the competition. Right edge is questionable, but I think people underestimate Taka moving to the right. He had a lot of success at the Titans on the right edge and Gutherson has a lot of talent and speed. Taka is big and has great foot work, his strength is probably his vision and ability to get the ball to his outside man, great step to draw the winger and then the give. If Gutherson can position himself right he'll see a few tries.
Forwards
Most underrated pack in the comp - great depth and i think we'll get some good punch. They showed, if they're in the mood, they'll match it with any forward pack. We have one of the most promising props in Daniel Alvaro, who ended 2015 on a high. I think the forwards do have lapses though, known to only play 60 minutes, and this is probably our weakest area and hopefully Beau Scott and a more fit Watmough can lift the forwards. Mannah would have to be one of the most underrated forwards in the comp, many would argue he's not Captain material but he bleeds Blue and Gold and always give 100%. You know what you're going to get with this guy, hard running and quick play the balls.
Bench
8 interchanges - This will be key to winning games, we have a huge selection of impact players, im going to sound out Edwards and Pritchard. If they can stay injury free, they'll come on with energy we'll see some free flowing footy. I dont expect Pritchard to start the season, but im sure he'll get a run at some stage. Edwards could get a starting spot, but i'd pick him off the bench to swap with Watmough.
Overall, i think a lot of the issues we had last year have been addressed with some of the best recruiting Parra has seen in the last 15 years. We are more equipped with depth as injury and suspension really assisted in derailing our season.
Replies
I also agree with your comments, the only big question is who will make up our back-row out of Watmough, Scott, Manu & Edwards and the make up of the bench with Gower, Tepai, Wicks and co.