I doubt it. Probably Wanting to give the likes of Aston a game and get them all on the field, this allows that to happen.

Hopefully, Lilley shouldn't be a long term option at 9, as he presents the same defensive issues there as Burrow.

Also interesting to see Josh Jordan-Roberts get a start, out of the guys who debuted last year he looked the most physically ready IMO.

Speaking of Robbie Burrow, is he stIll injured? Or him and McGuire just not risked on Boxing Day?

Think they have an extended break. Good move, no point flogging those guys at this stage of their career imo.

Lilley isn't plan B. Maybe just the stop gap until actual plan b arrives in January.

I have a terrible feeling that plan B is to start the season without a hooker and cross our fingers one becomes available by April/May.

I think he was injured and thus came back to training a couple of weeks later than others (Moon also) but is ok now but not rushed back. Think we saw with the likes of Peacock & Sinfield that they wouldn't feature in the Boxing Day game even after they retired from international duty to save them for the long season ahead given their age.

Interesting to see JJR starting at 2nd row, could've gone the easier option of either Walters starting or Ablett there with one of the young backrowers asked to be a makeshift centre instead.

Phew!

I was worried that Lilley might be Plan B when I saw that Boxing Day squad



Note to Lilley: Please add the following to your CV... Stop-Gap Plan B Hooker, or SGPBH for short.

Any idea where the alleged Plan B arrival is arriving from?

NRL Reserve Grade?
QLD Cup?
Championship 1 or 2?

No Stevie Ward either.

I'm looking forward to this one, always good to get away from the family for a bit and walk off a bit of xmas dinner!

Looks like you've got a decent side out again, nothing worse than turning up for this game and Leeds have sent the academy out!

Reckon Wakey will have a strong squad out as well, hopefully a decent game.

Yeah I've always enjoyed this game, breaks up what is otherwise a boring day after the hustle and bustle of Christmas day.

My lads playing boxing day, watch out for him, only young but an outstanding prospect!