asmadasa wrote:
I think with the pack failing to dominate opposition there needs to be a re-think about freshening the pack up with more strike and trying to ensure it’s best performers are on the field the longest and involved in play the most.
I would start with Bowden and Eseh at props.(Battye and Atoni off the bench).
Hood at hooker (Crowther interchange but also could be used at 13)
Ashurst and Pitts at second row (Tanginoa interchange).
Whitbread at loose forward where he’s played previously on a few occasions and impressed.
Start Tanginoa and drop Ashurst to the bench who’s not been good at all this year and poorly disciplined. I’d also have Hood/Bowes at 9 who are the only 2 hookers at the club. I’m not sure about Whitbread at 13. He would be good there but he’s also our best prop.
I’m not sure the pack is the main problem. A number of games the forwards have done their job and we’ve been camped for many sets in the opposition 10 but it’s the pivots that haven’t unlocked the defences and the edges that have leaked the tries in abundance.
For me the biggest disappointment is Lino. He’s been the constant and he’s had most of the ball most games but he just can’t create anything is the sad reality.
Perhaps Gale could just be the organiser and Lino can trim his game down to simple running opportunities and simple play options.