We need to remain positive guys. I think the host of talent we have coming through the ranks and in the top grade squad is a boost.
Our back line isn't a problem IMO. Patten is awesome, El Masri is El Masri and he never disappoints, Millard had a great year last year and Tonga will be looking to get back to his best or else and also Utai is there and if he can get back to his best, he is absolutely devastating. If there are injuries or out of form players, then look no further than Heka Nanai and Tim Winitana. Those two are very keen young guys with so much potential, much like Jennings from Penrith. 6 and 7 may be a worry, but don't forget that we have Groom, who is a little live wire and he will be fighting it out between Holdsworth and Roberts for a spot. I don't see the halves as a worry, especially not when we have Joey Johns training them.
Our forward pack might not be as tough as previous years, but we still have Sonny, Andrew Ryan (who has completed his first full pre-season since 2003), Reni Maitua and a host of young guys who are keen to rip in. I have high hopes for Danny Williams, a man who Beetson has said great things about. Hickey and Armit will need to step up, but we also have guys like Kouparitsas and Te Maari, not to mention the man mountain Leaeno and also Tsoulos, who many say will do great things if he can over come his injury troubles.
As for the reduced amount of interchanges, well, that doesn't worry me at all. Maitua, Ryan and Sonny Bill can all play 80 minutes if needed. Armit can push 60 minutes and Hickey should be able to push for 45-50 minutes if he gets into shape. Cleal can play a good 60-65 and Danny Williams is half back rower, half front rower so he should be able to play a good 40-50 as well. Throw into that Kouparitsas and Te Maari, who can both play 80, and we can build a very nice team.
I have faith that Folkes, a great coach who has taken us to the finals almost every year, will make the right the decisions.
Just have faith guys, think positive. This may be a bit of a re-building year but think ahead. This year will give great opportunity to the young guys. And if that doesn't get you excited, think about the money we have to spend for season 2009, especially if we back load contracts and get rid of a couple of do-nothings like Hughes, Phelps and Morrin.
Also pointing out the bad won't do anyone any good. Half full mate, half full.
