What a relief it was yesterday to win against the Bulls who are one of our bogey teams in recent years. The atmosphere was buzzing yesterday and hope every single fan who attended yesterday comes back next season so we can build on this further and not be in this situation next year.
We have learnt a lot this year and from what we've learnt we need to apply to next year and forthcoming years ahead. We have got 3 exciting young talents who have had a few run outs this season with Tom Johnstone, Jordan Crowther & Max Jowitt who I hope we keep hold of for many years to come. We are finally making a profit instead of making losses which is down to all the hard-work and dedication of MC and CB. They have admitted they don't know much about Rugby League but they have tried their hardest and all the hard work has paid off and regardless of your thoughts on them you should thank them for their efforts after keeping this great historic club in the top flight & may I add - never been relegated.
I believe under the guidance of Brian Smith who laid the foundations for Bradfords golden era we build next year both in the playing teams aswell as in the back-room staff. The guy knows an awful lot about Rugby League and his career supports that. Wherever Brian Smith is next season (back home or here) I wish him the best of luck and if he does return to Australia that he is part of the process that picks the next coach of Trinity.
Improving the first team for next season;
1.
Craig Hall - Contracted
IMO had a good first few games for us showed plenty of skill, pace and power but just lacked confidence it seems as the season goes on. I think his best position would be in the 3/4s as he would not have as much pressure on him and can concentrate on himself instead of others.
2.
Chris Riley - OOC
A decent player but not been at his best this year while been at us and is moving on by the looks of things.
3.
Dean Collis - Released
A great player when fit one of the best centres we've had in recent years and need replacing for next year.
4.
Reece Lyne - Contracted
Definitely not a centre and is also very much a confidence player. Thought he did a solid job for us on the wing yesterday and if he was to stay I would only play him there as he does not have the necessary skill to be a centre in putting his winger away.
5.
Richard Owen - Contracted
Richie has been a good player for us this year and I hope he has a speedy recovery from a leg break which looked pretty nasty. Played well for us whether on the wing or at fullback.
6.
Jacob Miller - Contracted
Our top try scorer I believe and has played well especially when Brian Smith arrived. He needs a calm head to play at 7 who also has a decent kicking game so that he can be complemented well and have pressure taken off him as well as allow him to have his natural running game. I also think his defence has improved over the season
7.
Tim Smith - Released
One of the best passers and organisers on his day. Poor kicking game though this season and IMO I would have let him go at the end of this season anyway. However he needs to be replaced by someone with a strong kicking game as well as a good organizing head to work well with Miller. Its an ashame that he ended his way at this club the way he did.
8.
Nick Scruton - Contracted
Really good season from the big man and took the captaincy roll well when Kirmond was injured. Played massive minutes throughout the season aswell as playing with numerous injuries. Hopefully in the off season he gets them sorted and comes back fitter and stronger for another big year next year.
9.
Paul McShane - to
Thought he was a solid player for us but also had flaws. He gave 100% and hope he does well at Cas but not too well
