Quote rhinowinorlose="rhinowinorlose"DHM - thanks for the definition of a hooker. I agree, they should be strong and key defenders, but I wouldn't have classed Buderus as aggressive. McShane may have done OK against Manly but he's been found out on plenty of other occassions, so I have no problem with him being loaned out. I think we would be wrong to be playing Liam Hood every week immediately, countless players have come through too soon in our and other teams and been ruined; loaning him out to a Championship side will allow him to get used to playing against men, and give him some great experience so that hopefully, next season, he can play every week.
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Of course Buderus was aggressive, he was on the front foot and made strong tackles infront of the gain line (you don't have to punch people to be aggrssive in rugby). Liam Hood is in his 20's, he's physically ready. Countless players have been brought into the team at this stage and have flourished - countless others have been loaned out recently and then disapeared.
And I'm glad you appreciate my definition of a hooker, anything to help Brian

But I would also add, it you really want to play a half back at 9 then make him a [ibig[/i one like Roby or ...cough...Lowes.