Thats fair enough. Do you really think Blackmore was better than Iro......for Leeds?

Yes - Iro was a show pony - Blackmore had sublime skills, technically a great centre who saw his role as creating opportunities for his winger. Look at how many tries St John Ellis scored outside him and Leroy. His record at international level is significantly better than Iro too. For me he was an important cog in that Murray team.

We wasn't getting 15 good games a season out of him three years ago, but you think we would now? What a great way to use your cap... no really.

I agree with the comments on Blackmore and Innes, both equally if not even better than Ali at times. However, I would have to say Ali has had the greates impact of all, so quite rightly gets the call. Put Blackmore or Innes in the team between 2004 and 2009 though, and I would bet all on here might have a different view.

I disagree but fair enough. I won't disagree that Blackmore created fantastic opportunities for his winger. He played the 99 Cup Final on one leg and put three tries on a plate for Leroy. Didn't play much again the rest of that season IIRC?

I just don't think he did enough....for Leeds....to merit discussion above Iro who was a full grown beast.

Iro, Innes, and Blackmore were all great players, but come on. Ali is probably the most skillful back rower I've ever seen along with SBW, he struggled with injury during his last few seasons which I think maybe affecting some people's judgement but, Ali was one of the finest players to ever grace these shores not just for Leeds but any club IMO. We were lucky to have the privilidge to be able to watch him for so long.

It is a close call I think, it is more about the type of player you prefer - a Keith Senior - all power and athletisism or a Jamie Lyon more technique and timing. I really like watching players that have high skills levels SBW/Slater rather than guys with massive power both have the attributes.

Buderus didn't play for Leeds long but the club has never had a hooker with his skill level - it is not quantity but quality for me.

Ali was brilliant, I'll never forget the look on Andy Raleighs face at Huddersfield as the big man snapped and unloaded some haymakers of the highest order before stroking his face after and saying sorry.

Buderus is an all time great, I count myself lucky to have seen him play at the peak of his powers and at 80% of his powers at Leeds.

He was still the 2nd best 9 playing in the NRL last season.

i agree 100% sal
buderus was a class above anything we will see in a 9 shirt for a very long time im afraid

regarding ali then he was without a doubt the most skillful back rower that i have ever seen, i am thrilled that we saw the best of his career at the rhinos

Ali also entertained the crowd

I agree re Ali - worth admission money to watch him play

I liked his shaking the posts routine.

Liked his impromptu 'not all there' antics couple with the statutory 1000 watt smile.

best ever, big part to play for wakey next season,
they still got some quality,and they will stay up ,

I would like to see Ali take up some sort of a role at Headingley when he finishes