This is what the team should have been. Bear in mind Ive given Sticky the benefit of the doubt and tried to keep changes to a minimum. No one can argue that this is a vastly superior team:
1. Josh Dugan – The form fullback of the last 12 months and has always produced in rep games. The only viable alternative was Hayne, which brings me to:
2. Jarryd Hayne – Two time Fitler medalist who has never had a bad game for NSW and has arguably been their best player in the last 5 years whilst playing on the wing (which nullifies the “out of position rubbish”
. Questionable in defense on the wing, but no worse than the current selection of Brett Morris.
3. Michael Jennings – Left Centre is undoubtedly NSW’s weakest position, and this is reflected in Jenning’s selection. Basically the best of a bad lot and has the added credibility of being the incumbent. Lawrence would have been a certainty if not for his injury.
4. Mark Gasnier – In good form for the Dragons and has loads of Origin experience. The only other alternative is Idris but Gas is a more rounded and experienced player.
5. Aku Uate – Explosive winger. No justification needed, however could have easily been Michael Gordon (especially with the need for a goal kicker if Soward wasn’t selected)
6. Jamie Soward – Would have preferred to see Jarrod Mullen in a line ball decision, but the need for a goal kicker with Gordon not available/picked makes Soward a must.
7. Mitchell Pearce – Again, no real alternative. Needs to step up pronto.
8. Kade Snowden – Strong consistent prop who doesn’t deserve to lose his spot from last year.
9. Robbie Farah – I can see why they chose Mick Ennis so I wont argue this point too strongly, but I feel Farah was should never have been dropped. Line ball decision.
10. Aiden Tolman – Takes Jason King’s spot (the worst selection of the current team).Tolman is a deadest machine. Having said that, this could easily be Michael Weyman, Keith Gallow or Luke Douglas. Anyone but King really.
11. Beau Scott – If you have Soward in the team I can see the argument for picking Scott. Had an ABYSMAL debut last year and is a very one dimensional player in my opinion.
12. Greg Bird – Is a proven performer at this level and brings plenty of experience. Is not in great form for his club but Im prepared to give him the benefit of the doubt.
13. Paul Gallen ©- No justification necessary
14. Tom Leahroyd-Lahrs – Arguably our best impact prop from last year and, while having a somewhat poor season for the Raiders, played very well in City Country.
15. Tim Mannah – Had a strong game last year and is the future of NSW props. Good impact off the bench and could even be included in the run on side.
16. Ben Creagh – Cant stand the bloke personally and will never forgive him for impersonating a fairy. Still, has some experience and his capable of playing a good club game.
17. Luke Lewis – Takes Dean Young’s spot (the second worst selection). Seriously, how is Lewis NOT in the team? The only argument is that he’s down on game fitness, but that didnt stop him from tearing the Broncos a new one. How can King be included without game fitness but not Lewis is beyond me. Lewis brings versatility and impact off the bench and could even swap places in the team with Greg Bird. Lewis can also cover for nearly every position on the park, something that isn’t offered in the current team.
