Only include players that are already on the books. I saw some decent performances and I think some of the lads gave Tim food for thought.

Starting 17 pro-tem: Quinlan; Shaw, Minns, Heffernan, Hodgson; Abdull, Ellis; Scruton, Lunt, Clarkson, Blair, Donaldson, Addy – Bench: Clark, Lawler, Milton, Greenwood.

Did Clarkson play at prop in the friendly? If so how did he go?

Not too bad to be fair.

AND THIS IS WHERE TIM SHEENS WILL BE WORTH HIS WEIGHT IN GOLD FOR US.

He knows Clarkson has zero in attack, so will utilise his strengths in his defensive play and hard work.

The same with Marsh, he knew he hasn't got what it takes to be a top half back, so moved him to full back to utilise his strengths ( open running and backing up)

The same with Cockayne, as he isn't a top full back as he cannot take high balls, so moves him to the wing to utilise his strengths (fast scoots to ease forward pressure, excellent line speed and a good finisher)

In my opinion, not many other coaches would have to audacity to make these bold moves, but like I say he is no mug and hopefully will bear fruit.

As regards people saying Keiron Dixon would be great in this league, I think Sheens did enough homework on him, and realised that you cannot polish a turd, and would be another season of liabilities, hence his departure.

1) Quinlan
2) Shaw
3) Minns
4) Heffernan
5) Oakes
6) Abdul
7) Ellis
Scruton
9) Lunt
10) Clarkson
11) Blair
12) Greenwood
13) Addy

14) Lawler
15) Mulhearn
16) Clark
17) Donaldson

I reckon if cockayne is fit for season opener he plays above oakes, not sure about butler-fleming yet. I think mulhearn played very well sunday so just about edges milton, but if we sign a prop before then of some pedigree he may come into 17 with clark starting. Would like to see clark off the bench me, will cause havoc against tiring defences. Donaldsons enthusiasm is going to be needed a lot i believe as that's what we will need to match in this league to be succesful. We have clearly the greatest skill set but can we get up for it, donno brings that for me.

Quinlan top try scorer this year.

I think he played 30mins and tbh he looked comfortable although the Leeds pack will be a different proposition.

He's been dubbed 'Kelvin Skerrett' by the squad since being given the 10 jersey lol.

As Mild Rover says, this is a shrewd move by TS.

As things stand, not including potential signings and assuming James a Greenwood is fit for round 1.


Quinlan
Shaw
Heffernan
Salter
Hodgson
Abdul
Ellis
Scruton
Lunt
Clark
Blair
Clarkson
Addy

Lawler
Donaldson
Greenwood
Mulhurn


Harsh on Minns but I was impressed with Heffernan and Salter on Sunday. Butler-Fleming and Cockayne will have to impress in the trial games against Leeds and Warrington to oust sprightly Hodgy! Donaldson just gets the edge over Milton due to experience.

Largely in agreement with most of the team. How do people feel Shaw went? In my opinion he didn't impress much. If Ellis keeps the kicking I think Cockayne would offer more. TBD on Butler Fleming

I can't see any of the new Aussie backs not starting in the team come season kick off unless injured or lacking match fitness.

Sheens said on Hull KR.TV that he is hopeful of having all the 4 short term injured back for Leeds. It will be interesting to see how Jake Butler-Fleming goes at Leeds and whether he plays wing or centre or both.

I think Shaw might struggle for game time. He wasn't bad on Sunday, but he wasn't brilliant either. His goal kicking was off too. I reckon Minns will start at centre for Salter next game and JBF at wing for Shaw. Cockayne on the other wing for Disco Dave and Heffernan and Quinlan to stay at centre and FB.

Abdull and Ellis as halfbacks, Ellis goal kicking.

Starting pack - Scruton, Lunt, Clarke, Blair, Greenwood and Addy.

Bench - Lawler, Clarkson, Mulhern, Donaldson. Further interchanges - Horne, Milton (excellent), Jubb, Shaw, Oakes, Salter, Moran, Cator, Harris.

How much you wanna bet he outscores all your wingers this season?

I've not seen the game back and I know I'm not their greatest fan. What did Clarkson and Salter do to warrant getting in the 17 never mind start a game. Minns proved last year he's a far far better player than Salter. Other than Lawler all the forwards went well. Clarkson was his usual below average self.
Donaldson was good. He passed the ball more on Sunday than he did all last season. A change of how he has been used and very effective.

This is the team I would probably select.

The back line will be the most exciting in the league and will score an abundance of points whilst remaining defensively strong and the forward finally look like they are a cohesive unit and Scrutes and Lunty will lead them around the park.

I have omitted Shaw because he doesn't really set the world on fire and never has done. Cockayne and Horne are good to have in and around the squad for their experience but wouldn't be my first choice to play simply because I see the back line I have selected as been explosive and their age means they have the potential to gel this year ready for our potential super league next year.

I have left the rest out because I think they have a bit more work to do in their relevant positions and have time on their side to develop. Jubby must be knocking on the door though, that kid has got something special and will be a top player, Cator and Harris need a bit more time before they are ready for a full on assault on the first team but when they get that chance both have the potential to shine.

1) Quinlan
2) Butler Fleming
3) Minns
4) Heffernan
5) Oakes
6) Abdul
7) Ellis
8.) Scruton
9) Lunt
10) Clark
11) Blair
12) Greenwood
13) Addy

14) Milton
15) Mulhearn
16) Clarkson
17) Donaldson

Cockayne, Hodgson, Salter, Shaw, Horne, Lawler, Wardill, Jubb, Moran, Harris, Cator, Marsh.

Quite possibly mate