NSW of Origin
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For the first time in the last 5 or so seasons, there hasn't been a thread directly after an Origin game asking for opinions for a NSW squad for the next game.
For a change, NSW appear to be the settled unit with one change at most based on performance, and any others dependent on injuries in the next couple of rounds of NRL.
In contrast, QLD are looking at making several changes to their squad, with some big decisions as to which route they take.
Backs.
With Slater out, four players will be in contention for this important position - Inglis, Boyd, Bowen, Barba. With the NSW kicking game having been below average in the first two games, the new FB will probably have the opportunity to make a big impact up at Lang Park. Selecting Inglis or Boyd will require a reshuffle of the backline, whereas Bowen & Barba will allow the existing right & left-side combinations to be maintained. Nielson, Chambers, Tonga appear to be out of form or injured. Could Justin O'Neil get a gig?
Inglis has been a standout at FB for Souths this year and if this were the only consideration, he would be shifted there immediately. But he'll have to be replaced at left centre. Barba or Bowen will probably strengthen the squad overall but a player such as Inglis getting involved so much more would probably give NSW a mountain of headaches.
Forwards.
Thaiday will probably return to replace the injured Parker. Taylor will resume his position as Thaiday's right-side interchange relief on the bench and really needs to be used in middle of the game in the final 15 of the 1st and opening 15 of the 2nd half, rather than the end of the match when it could be on the line. Harrison was at fault for the 2nd of B.Stewart's tries but should maintain his place over on the left-edge. Gillet has had limited impact off the bench in both games so far, but his quality is undeniable and he covers more bases than a sole impact back off the bench.
I'd like some opinions on big Petero. The big fella has been a stalwart for QLD over the years, and deserves the opportunity to go out with respect and on the field, but it seems to me that he has gone on one year to long in the Origin arena. The QLD culture will mean he will get this chance, and even as a NSWelshman, I hope he plays lights out, but he appears to be weak link in the middle at the moment.
Mal and his advisers will have to find solutions to a few problems in the next couple fo weeks.
For a change, NSW appear to be the settled unit with one change at most based on performance, and any others dependent on injuries in the next couple of rounds of NRL.
In contrast, QLD are looking at making several changes to their squad, with some big decisions as to which route they take.
Backs.
With Slater out, four players will be in contention for this important position - Inglis, Boyd, Bowen, Barba. With the NSW kicking game having been below average in the first two games, the new FB will probably have the opportunity to make a big impact up at Lang Park. Selecting Inglis or Boyd will require a reshuffle of the backline, whereas Bowen & Barba will allow the existing right & left-side combinations to be maintained. Nielson, Chambers, Tonga appear to be out of form or injured. Could Justin O'Neil get a gig?
Inglis has been a standout at FB for Souths this year and if this were the only consideration, he would be shifted there immediately. But he'll have to be replaced at left centre. Barba or Bowen will probably strengthen the squad overall but a player such as Inglis getting involved so much more would probably give NSW a mountain of headaches.
Forwards.
Thaiday will probably return to replace the injured Parker. Taylor will resume his position as Thaiday's right-side interchange relief on the bench and really needs to be used in middle of the game in the final 15 of the 1st and opening 15 of the 2nd half, rather than the end of the match when it could be on the line. Harrison was at fault for the 2nd of B.Stewart's tries but should maintain his place over on the left-edge. Gillet has had limited impact off the bench in both games so far, but his quality is undeniable and he covers more bases than a sole impact back off the bench.
I'd like some opinions on big Petero. The big fella has been a stalwart for QLD over the years, and deserves the opportunity to go out with respect and on the field, but it seems to me that he has gone on one year to long in the Origin arena. The QLD culture will mean he will get this chance, and even as a NSWelshman, I hope he plays lights out, but he appears to be weak link in the middle at the moment.
Mal and his advisers will have to find solutions to a few problems in the next couple fo weeks.
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