For me, Ian Kirke has to fight for a place in the pack just like everyone else. We have lots of competition there, so he'll have to earn it. If Brian Mac feels at any stage of the season that he has done that then he should play. If not, he will probably find that he knows the U20 lads a lot better by the end of the season. Such is life, and I think the same applies to all our other forwards.

Whats the harm in admitting that he felt [is[/ihit and couldn't really be bothered.

Unless Leeds suffer an acute spate of injuries in the forwards, I have a feeling that Kirke's days of regular first team action at Leeds could be numbered. Let's see if he can force his way into the team on merit.

I can't see him getting a place in a reasonably strong match squad at either second row or prop.

Peacock, Bailey, Griffin, Leuluai are all definitely ahead of him. How Moore goes is yet to be seen, but it may depend on the approach to the game. However, he must still be in the plans or the 2 year contract wouldn't make much sense

Delaney, Ablett, JJB, Clarkson & Hauraki are all ahead of him in the back row.

We are strong in the back row. Jay Pitts seems to be much the forgotten man at the moment. I'd be keen to see how he develops over the next 12 months.

Admitting he felt [is[/ihit is fine.

Admitting he couldn't really be bothered wouldn't be.

Not sure he actually did admit that, mind you.

Looks like the Four-Times Grand Final winner is earmarked to be the main target of agenda-driven critique again by the usual suspects before the season has even kicked off.

No surprises there.

In years to come and the next generation of fans read the history books and see his name in those GF winning teams and the other big games,and when this squad has its reunions coming onto the pitch,he will still be part of a legendary era.Wether he was fortunate to be there is another thing

Have we not been here before ?

Somehow I think Kirke will continue to defy logic and still gain a place in the first 17 for a large part of the season.....

I hope he does Mr Nantwichexile.....I really do.....

and he will allus be part of Leed's history....grand finals and all.....

but he was wi'out a doubt woeful on Sunday........

Some folk are never happy! Kirke's stated he's prepared to fight for his place in the U20s, what more do you want?

As much as I share a lot of other posters feelings towards Kirke, I must admit, his hit on Solomona in the playoff last year was a beauty and sent a clear statement to Warringtons pack.