Why more leeway for Bluey? It is all about history and context really.

Under Smith we had seen the GF winning team of 2004 falter in 2005 and undergo a marked decline in 2006. In 2007 the bad moments (like losing to HKR away - after which I confess to calling for Smith's sacking) felt like it was going to be 2006 all over again, and that 2004 was not being capitalised on.

However, 'Bluey' has started the season very well, and despite the recent run of bad form, we're still very much in uncharted waters with him as coach. As he lacks a history with Leeds (or any other SL club), I think it is more a case of wait and see before I become more critical. I think much depends on how this form drop is handled - if we continue to decline until the end of the season and coaching decisions play a role in this it will be open season on McClennan on this board.

I think the fact he lacks any League experience may be the biggest concern I have, coaching the New Zealand side to success very much depends on whether the players like you or not - the fact that Bluey is very much a people skilled coach would dictate that they enjoyed playing for him.

The interesting thing with any people orientated leaders is whether they can have those difficult conversations - in my experience they very rearely have this sklll.

:392z6u85Why should he? What confidence would it instill in his players if he were the type of leader who meekly apologised to the masses every time he made a decision which they perceived as a mistake.

Last year games in the 'slump' were lost against sides we expected to beat or lost when they looked to be won.

This year we are winning games from being behind or coming back to nearly win.

If the kick had gone over on Friday it would have been as rose tinted as the Murray era comeback @ Sheffield.

Whilst losing there is a sense of adversity & entertainment this year & yes it go like 2005 with just one trophy @ the beginning or like 2007 with a champions crown @ the end.

At least it's not like 2006

It shows humility, something even the best have shown over the years.

He failed to build on a team on the threshold of something very special, he beat a well undercooked, understrength Bulldogs who once realised they had to show a little rattled Leeds senseless.

I'm neither way on the Bluey debate Gareth, he hasn't convinced me either way - he does however strike me as a sunshine and lollipop merchant.

what's an ''an booty''?

I like that comment.

:24y75kbxI like that comment.

That's fine by me. I'd actively encourage it. Just as I did with our greatest ever coach at a similar stage last year.

I am encouraged so many of you fekkwitts appear to have learned your lesson.

Its like an "other word beginning with the letter a but not popular with the swear filter."



You didn't need the word "an" in your question twice, by the way. Since we're being picky.

You just get worse matey !

Swop Donald to the other side ? Why ? What difference would that make ? Only make the problem move to the other wing FFS

Play JJB in the Centre ? Now that must be the most stupid thing even you have posted

How on earth you dare give an opinion about Coaching, well good job you have never Coached anyone

Indeed but you are aiming your latest fishing rod in the wrong direction Gareth, Smith delivered and failed in equal measure, thats life, thats sport.

Interestingly enough the fact that Smith is (in your words) the most successful coach ever in the history of Leeds tells you everything you need to know about the club rather than Smith himself.

How did Smith do at Huddersfield with just his tactical ability to fall back on?