Quote: KaeruJim "It's difficult when none of us know what's really going on behind the scenes. To some extent, if Ferres and Ward are fit, they need to be the second row. Cameron Smith is a natural loose forward once he puts a bit of size on.
Most of us seem to think the pack is the biggest problem (especially with Lolohea, Hurrell and McClelland coming in). I honestly think Kev gets this, and Furner gets this. But if we have to wait another year to get the right personnel, rather that than costly mistakes which use up precious resources and/or adversely effect the new culture they're trying to instil.
Maybe we need to take our medicine for another season while the youth development comes through - I think we're paying the price now for something not going right there from a few years ago. Handley and Sutcliffe are the only notable ones to come through for some time. Lots of other lads just not up to standard unfortunately.
The crop beginning with Walker, Smith, Newman and Oledzki looks more promising I think.'"
Is the pack really a huge issue though? As of right now we have;
Parcel and Dwyer as hookers. Happy with both and they both have different attributes.
Garbutt, singleton, petru, cuthbo, Crosby, mullally, olejdski as props. Sure another big prop would be great but if Furner can get these guys firing then they can set a platform.
There were holes all over the shop last season and now we should have a decent half back pairing so myler isn't having to do everything and two strike centres we should be better.
Last season was not just poor because of the front row.