As mentioned by others, I think we will start to take advantage of having props who can play big minutes in Thomson and Havard by selecting others who have something different to offer add in Ellis at 13 we have 3 props can do long mins:

Bench combination of Mago, Walters or Nsemba (with one starting), Dupree or Bryne.

With Leeming as 4th sub we now have a very varied attack during the game which has to make us a more dangerous side.

Three great options to bring in for Byrne I reckon.

Cooper - big game player, plenty of experience. Started in the WCC and played great.

Hill - been in great for this year, would bring energy and work rate, played in the playoff semi win against KR last year

Walters - massive backrow/front row hybrid, big potential and had a brilliant season last year.


I’d lean Hill but all 3 are good options.

The CC semi against them last year we only had Byrne and Ellis as out and out props. Mago at the time couldn’t be trusted and played very few minutes and Hill was unused.

Compare that to Thompson, Ellis, Dupree, Havard, Cooper/Hill it’s night and day.

I have no doubt that Coops will play, big game experience is vital. If we start fast and play to our potential we will be Wembley bound.

A bit harsh on Hill who hasn't put a foot wrong but I agree that Cooper will play, and on balance I think that's the right call.

It was great to see O'Neill and Leeming play so well in the same side last weekend. I was never particularly concerned about having 140 props because you expect to pick up injuries and bans there as the season goes on, but as soon as we signed Leeming I wondered how we would manage giving him enough game time alongside O'Neill when one of his strengths is that he can do big minutes.

I think O'Neill will make a brilliant 13 ,good hands and great fitness to tackle anything that moves.

It's great to have options, agreed Cooper will replace Byrne, Hill and Walters will be in the team for Salford