: Fri Jan 09, 2009 10:58 am
I would say the top six should include these 6, probably in this order:
Leeds
Wigan
St Helens
Catalans
Bradford
Warrington
The rest looks like it could be a lottery. Everything depends on which coach can get the best out of their players.
For all those writing off Celtic and Salford it could be a mistake. As Celtic play some very good attacking rugby, BUT the forwards are definitely not the best and if they haven't strengthened in that department they will be dominated week in week out. Also if Luke Dyer is lost to injury they could find themselves struggling and having seen how badly he faded in the NL1 GF his fitness is questionable.
As for Salford the team Shaun McRae has assembled is, on paper, stronger than that which reached the play offs under Karl Harrison. Lets face it McRae is streets ahead of Harrison as a coach. The main worry for Salford is they way Wakefield tore them apart in the Cup last season. However, Salford improved vastly as the season progressed and the club has brought in some good players and if the younger players continue to develop and live up to their potential then this could be impressive first season back.
It's all ifs and buts, but like I've already said who finishes where will depend on which coach can get the best out of their players and who has the team best conditioned and prepared.
original post was comparing morrison being fit for start off season against a crocked buderus. tad rhino dragged menzies into it later.
