We have been up against some weakened packs of forwards recently and Ben Ross has been ok. But for $400,000 I want more than ok. Newcastle virtually had third string props when we played them the Dragons had Ryles out and Poore was probably the standout prop last Saturday before he twisted his knee in the secondhalf.
Those two games were perfect for him to rip and tear and leave a mark on the game. But he didn't. He went ok.
Against the Broncos Ross was very tame. It makes sense because Thaiday & Hannant are way better than him. In playing minutes, impact, mobility, offloading, tackling and line breaking ability. And to top it off they play for their Club at around half of Ross's wage.
For $400,000 I'd expect Les Davidson charges at the line or a Danny Lee work rate. Great leaders of past Sharks forward packs.
Ross definately doesn't have that presence.
We get 39mins of ok football and a buggered salary cap.