OK, my post did say "If Russell was marking Minikin."

It was was another poster that stated Powell was selecting his favourites.

I replied saying that it would be acceptable, if they were playing well.

Another stellar performance from this man and we'll be alright

If Dufty comes back in, I think he will drop Wrench and revert Thewlis to the wing. Unjustly for me, Wrench, Ashton and Thewlis are the green shoots of recovery.

After Powell's usual after match blame game last Friday, I fear Ashton could well be left out for that speed merchant minikin.

Ashton didn’t have his best game last week, but still put himself in the positions to make those errors. IMO he’d be player of the year for us this season (not a high bar granted) which means yes probably Powell will drop him.

I have to chuckle here.

Every coach we have had since the 80s has - in my opinion and from memory - been charged with not dropping 'favoured' players regardless of how badly they are playing.
The charge against Powell is no different.

Re: Dufty… I was listening on the BBC commentary vs Hudds whilst on Hols. He seemed to impress the commentators that day with his liveliness, ability to avoid tackles, and vision setting up a try or two. It sounded good on audio, but was the reality very different?

Yep ... I listened to it too. If he is as good as they suggested he is already our major threat on attack. Look forward to seeing him.

I don't think he does. Also I am sure he has his doubts defensively about the majority of our younger players. That is why they get left out.

Powell has been known as a coach that brings on youth - to the best of my knowledge - so if he doesn't trust them then it might be a case of that's part of their development. But clearly having Nicholson, Wrench and Thewlis on one side in any game currently makes that side a clear target for the opposition.
Not sure if Dean would defend that side too but if so O can easily see it being a recipe for disaster - especially now and given our predicament.

That analysis perfectly describes Riley Dean's performance when we actually beat Huddersfield this season.

I'll be very surprised if Dufty plays on Thursday, he was limping after training so i don't think he'll play. unless he has pain killing injections?
I wonder if he'll have the extra bone in his foot removed/shaved down in the off season, if that's the problem that keeps affecting him it might be worth to get it gone? But i know foot injuries tend to take ages to heal so might not bother?