Quote: SaintsFan "But we did have Eastmond and Wheeler on the pitch, so we did have two halfbacks. However, you did say 'working' halfbacks and Eastmond wasn't really working at that stage.
I don't think our halfbacks are the problem. I just think our lack of bash is. Bring back Jammer. He knew what to do with Wigan!
On the point about Lomax going off, on GF not only did we lose Lomax of course but we didn't have Wello or Laffranchi (our best prop by some distance) as both were banned. This time we should have them all plus Wilkin on the pitch, which is bound to help. However, I still think the game will be won or lost up front.
So far as Gaskell is concerned, hopefully the present coaching team have continued what Royce was doing in that hopefully he is still training with Lomax and Lance so that he will keep developing and be in a position to step in when needed/appropriate.'"
I'm glad you noticed the working element. Also that first game against Wigan I think was Wheelers first game at halfback for the first team.
I forgot about the halves missing in the Final against Wigan.
I know forwards lay the platform, but without a potent attack there is no pressure applied to the other side.. You can have all the big running forwards you like but with no plays a decent defence with hold them out. A team like wigan can match the bash in defence, it makes the game easy for them, they don't get run off their feet and have plently left in the tank to charge down field. Run at them with creative attacking plays and then they will have some work to do.