Merrin was good, but Prior is a definite upgrade

Better than the average superleague prop in my opinion.Definitley came back from lockdown over weight but for me during his time at leeds overall he was our best prop. At 114kg he also had enough size and power to make an impact when he hit the line.

About sums it up for me too

Great post...

Yes I’d agree with that. Prior really hit the ground running.

Prior without doubt is an upgrade - POTY for me last year.
Ava had size but not fitness, only played 20-30 mins per game
If that's all your front row can manage, then you need plenty of others to play long minutes.
Hopefully Tet and King can manage longer.

Again before lockdown I don't remember ava be that unfit.For me 15 mins (ish) per half from a big prop isn't too bad,especially when you have other forward who can play longer minutes.

I think lockdown hit Ava hard hence why he’s now gone. He never looked the same

I agree.i remember agar saying that even after the cup final we had certain players who weren't at their pre season fitness levels.

Don't get me wrong - I wish Ava was still here, but I wish Merrin was still here more.
Imagine a pack with Tet, Ava, Mik, Tom, Merrin and Martin - then we could talk about challenging the top 2 !!!

Agree with all that ,

Merrin was good in a poor side but not worth Marquee money

I agree. Like most players he would have been better surrounded by better players,imagine him at loose behind peacock and kylie. As for marquee, its difficult to live up to that billing unless you're a world class pivot who scores/makes 18 points a week.

for old timers prob more like a harry pinner lf who had to play prop too much

I can imagine yeah, not that exciting. I would prefer Sinny or even Ablett there....

Brian mac obviously disagreed with you.........but what did he know.......