Atkins' stats have probably converted me to the 'Atkins to second row' crowd; he did way more tackles than our other backs last year (almost as many as Asotasi!) and had a lower missed tackle percentage than almost all of them. He's big and strong and works hard, but he can't pass which makes centre a poor position for him. Second row doesn't seem like a bad option, apart from the competition we have there too - it worked out fine for Westwood.

and Gary Mercer

I'm not sure Daryl will return against Cas either.

Even if it means dropping a few points over the next few weeks I would far rather he comes back when he's fully recovered rather than a few weeks early and then potentially lose him for several more weeks.

Dwyer / Ratch ain't a bad pairing if that's the case

True, True.