Recruitment priorities seem highly lop-sided over the last 12 months or so, and this is continuing to show even now we have a few more bodies back. The backline and halves have been neglected at the expense of the pack IMO, as illustrated by the last minute signing of Eastmond which speaks volumes about the lack of preparedness for this season. Some posters on this messageboard seem obsessed with our pack, as if it is the only thing that matters, but performances this season show we need a balanced team more than anything.
Last night demonstrated the futilty of having a dominant pack and controlling 7 if the rest of the team (tactics included) are not up to scratch. Isn't Sean Long supposed to be in charge of our attack? If so there are major questions over his appointment, especially his judgement (again) in the decision to go for Eastmond. Not sure about the hooking situation anymore but Leeming and Dwyer aren't consistent enough.
It wasn't a game for throwing the ball around. Leeds should have been more patient, taking the 2 when on offer, and playing more direct when in the opposition 20.
I'm not sure whether it is fair to blame individuals in a game like this. No doubt plenty has been said about Hurrell. Hull certainly did a number on him in the first half and we couldn't recover - although Hurrell can't be blamed for the toothlessness in attack close to Hull's try line. Tom Briscoe has had some flak on here recently. While he's solid enough it is disappointing that Leeds aren't showing more ambition in their (re)signings for the backline (and stand-off). Both our centres needed to be better last night.
