Thaler doesn’t like us!

tell you what, i did like some of wrench's foot work, that was tremendously exciting.

While Dufty might be a bit grumpy, the pace he shows is unbelievable at times. Thewlis is no slouch but watching him fly up alongside and support at a canter was impressive. Even for the Fages try, he completely messes up the situation, starts to have a tantrum before giving chase and still reels Fages in and almost prevents the try.

Ratchford and Drinkwater aside, the backline is electric. Can see the idea, big ugly lumps battering the middle and shift wide for the backs. Just need the big ugly lumps to stay in the country and on the pitch!

Just watched the whole match back and Dufty’s body language had the look of a guy not happy at all even when he got his try.

I may have cut a similar figure, in fairness. The Dufty try was a sigh of relief, not a chance to celebrate.

Don’t get me wrong, I’m not convinced that he’s happy, and I’m not convinced he is staying. But there are higher priorities for me. If Thewlis was at fullback full time, would we be better, worse or the same? Now, ask that of Williams, or Vaughan. Dufty can go for me, if he’s unhappy. He’s not setting the world alight and while there is no doubt of his athleticism, he’s not as rounded a player as what Thewlis could be (could, not is… yet).

However, if we can get them all fit, flying and happy, then we have a chance. And from experience, winners tend to be slightly less homesick than losers.

It’s tomorrow that McGuire as got to lodge an appeal and it all seems to be quiet right now.