McCullough

[Forbes Creek Dragons]

Not sure what mail the jouro has but this is basically my round one team. If Jack Bird is fully fit for round one that would be a huge boost for us

St George Illawarra Dragons v Cronulla Sharks at Netstrata Jubilee Stadium (6.15pm)

Dragons predicted team: 1 Matt Dufty 2 Mikaele Ravalawa 3 Max Feagai 4 Zachary Lomax 5 Cody Ramsey 6 Corey Norman 7 Ben Hunt 8 Paul Vaughan 9 Andrew McCullough 10 Blake Lawrie 11 Tariq Sims 12 Jackson Ford 13 Jack Bird 14 Tyrell Fuimaono 15 Josh Kerr 16 Daniel Alvaro 17 Poasa Faamausili

Dragons players unavailable: Cameron McInnes (knee), Jack de Belin (stood down)

Others: Eddie Blacker, Billy Brittain, Adam Clune, Kaide Ellis, Mathew Feagai, Trent Merrin, Jordan Pereira, Jayden Sullivan, Brayden Wiliame

Sharks predicted team: 1 William Kennedy 2 Sione Katoa 3 Jesse Ramien 4 Josh Dugan 5 Ronaldo Mulitalo 6 Matt Moylan 7 Chad Townsend 8 Braden Hamlin-Uele 9 Blayke Brailey 10 Aaron Woods 11 Briton Nikora 12 Wade Graham 13 Toby Rudolf 14 Connor Tracey 15 Aiden Tolman 16 Andrew Fifita 17 Jack Williams

Sharks players unavailable: Jack A Williams (throat), Shaun Johnson (Achilles), Bronson Xerri (stood down), Siosifa Talakai (shoulder)

Others: Mawene Hiroti, Royce Hunt, Nene Macdonald, Billy Magoulias, Kyle Patterson, Franklin Pele, Jensen Taumoepeau, Braydon Trindall, Teig Wilton

I would be happy with that side, looks competitive with the Sharks on paper. I’d rejig the side to have Bird on the bench and whoever the best winger out of JP/Rava in Charity Shield gets that wing spot.

 

[Como Connection]

I would be happy with that side, looks competitive with the Sharks on paper. I’d rejig the side to have Bird on the bench and whoever the best winger out of JP/Rava in Charity Shield gets that wing spot.

Rav is way in front of JP surely on last years form and would not have scored the tries Rav did if he had played outside Zac.
CC

 

[Draginzaaar]

And the era of plod continues..... I wonder if some people actually watched any Broncos games in the last few seasons and actually seen how snail-like McChokesaviour is.
Depth signing at best but if for premium dollars with more game time than our up and comers then it's taking the piss.

Jobs for the boys etc etc.

He played for the Knights last year and went well until injured.

 

[Inisai Toga]

Rav is way in front of JP surely on last years form and would not have scored the tries Rav did if he had played outside Zac.
CC

He’s just got so much power (that we desperately need). If he can reduce his handling errors he could become a real crowd favourite. The more attention others get opens up more possibilities and opportunities for our halves and Dufty.

 

[Forbes Creek Dragons]

Rav is way in front of JP surely on last years form and would not have scored the tries Rav did if he had played outside Zac.
CC

Rav got dropped though to end last season and wasn’t brought back in by Young. I don’t have a favourite but I’m keeping an open mind. Neither cemented their spot imo and if say a Matthew Feagai started the season well in CC either could lose their spot. Another note, JP played outside Aitken all season so that has to be taken into account, I’m sure Rava would have scored bugger all outside Aitken also.

 

[Inisai Toga]

Rav got dropped though to end last season and wasn’t brought back in by Young. I don’t have a favourite but I’m keeping an open mind. Neither cemented their spot imo and if say a Matthew Feagai started the season well in CC either could lose their spot. Another note, JP played outside Aitken all season so that has to be taken into account, I’m sure Rava would have scored bugger all outside Aitken also.

fair call!

 

[possm]

Not sure what mail the jouro has but this is basically my round one team. If Jack Bird is fully fit for round one that would be a huge boost for us

St George Illawarra Dragons v Cronulla Sharks at Netstrata Jubilee Stadium (6.15pm)

Dragons predicted team: 1 Matt Dufty 2 Mikaele Ravalawa 3 Max Feagai 4 Zachary Lomax 5 Cody Ramsey 6 Corey Norman 7 Ben Hunt 8 Paul Vaughan 9 Andrew McCullough 10 Blake Lawrie 11 Tariq Sims 12 Jackson Ford 13 Jack Bird 14 Tyrell Fuimaono 15 Josh Kerr 16 Daniel Alvaro 17 Poasa Faamausili

Dragons players unavailable: Cameron McInnes (knee), Jack de Belin (stood down)

Others: Eddie Blacker, Billy Brittain, Adam Clune, Kaide Ellis, Mathew Feagai, Trent Merrin, Jordan Pereira, Jayden Sullivan, Brayden Wiliame

Sharks predicted team: 1 William Kennedy 2 Sione Katoa 3 Jesse Ramien 4 Josh Dugan 5 Ronaldo Mulitalo 6 Matt Moylan 7 Chad Townsend 8 Braden Hamlin-Uele 9 Blayke Brailey 10 Aaron Woods 11 Briton Nikora 12 Wade Graham 13 Toby Rudolf 14 Connor Tracey 15 Aiden Tolman 16 Andrew Fifita 17 Jack Williams

Sharks players unavailable: Jack A Williams (throat), Shaun Johnson (Achilles), Bronson Xerri (stood down), Siosifa Talakai (shoulder)

Others: Mawene Hiroti, Royce Hunt, Nene Macdonald, Billy Magoulias, Kyle Patterson, Franklin Pele, Jensen Taumoepeau, Braydon Trindall, Teig Wilton

I doubt that our 17 is settled as yet.

1. Fullback - Dufty
Dufty should have the inside running for the fullback position however, I believe he will only get the job if he has addressed his defensive problems and his lack of confidence under the high ball. I still see a real contest between Dufty and Ramsey for the fullback position.

2. Left Wing - Ramsey
Right now, the contest for the left wing position seems to be between Ramsey and JP, that is if Dufty remains at fullback and even though Ramsey is more suited towards the right wing position. Matt Feagai still needs time in CC but will very soon begin to make a claim for the left wing position.

3. Right Centre - Lomax
Lomax will be our right centre

4. Left Centre - Matt Feagai
In my opinion the contest for the left centre position is between Max Feagai and Williame. It seems to me that Max will be selected.

5. Right Wing - Ravalawa
Big and strong, Ravalawa will only need to show improvement in his defensive reads and positional play. If he can reproduce that agressive defence he displayed against the Eels las season he should hold the right wing position.

6. Sullivan - Five-eighth
Even though I believe Griffin planned on selecting Norman first up at 6, it is more than likely that Norman will have to serve some suspension time for the off-field incident no under investigation. A great chance for Sullivan to further stake his claims and added pressure on Norman to step up in 2021 or face time in CC.

7. Halfback - Hunt
Griffin has publicly stated that he wants to start the season with Hunt at 7.

8. Right Side Prop - Kerr
This starting prop position is up for grabs however, I believe it will Kerr that wins this race. Condenders are Alvaro and Faamausili. I'd say that Fui and Lawrie will work in tandem in the lock position.

9. Hooker - McCullough
Providing he is fit to play, McCullough will be our first choice hooker.

10. Left Side Prop - Vaughan
This is Vaughan's spot to loose. He needs to step up and play at his best to keep his position.

11. Left Side Edge Forward - Sims
Let's hope Sims can return to his best form for 2021

12. Right Side Edge Forward - Ford
Right now Ford is the front runner for the 12 jumper but will need to perform well to keep it. Bird when fit and Fui would be in contention for this position.

13. Lock - Lawrie
Most probably will work with Fui in tandem. both bring a different style to the position and so I am sure Griffin will devise a plan to instill some variety in the way he uses each of these players in the lock position.

14. Bench Utility - Bird
It is most likely that Bird will occupy the bench utility position in the early rounds of the season and until he regains match fitness. He is able to play most backline positions and possibly an edge forward position. Small minutes increasing as the season progresses.

15. Bench Prop - Alvaro
Recruited specifically to provide a robust role when Vaughan requires a break.

16. Bench Prop - Faamausili
An agile prop who will continue the efforts when replacing Kerr

17. Bench Backrow Forward - Fuimaono
Can play edge forward on both sides of the ruck and lock. He provides the versatility to cover all backrow position but will mainly be used in tandem with Lawrie at lock.

In my opinion the above line-up is our best 17 and if they can play to their potential they will be very competitive. Once Bird is fully fit and if De Belin becomes available, the Dragons should be a real force in 2021. We still have two spare spots in our 28 to fill by March so, depending on the talents of these two players, we can only hope that our chances of success will only look even better.

 

[Dragsters]

He’s just got so much power (that we desperately need). If he can reduce his handling errors he could become a real crowd favourite. The more attention others get opens up more possibilities and opportunities for our halves and Dufty.

Agreed.

Ravalawa had a run of error riddled games early last season, was dropped then came back and had a long run of error free games where he didn't look like dropping one and took some miraculous takes.

Then he got dropped again after 1 error it seemed when the drums were beating loudest for McFail and he was looking for scapegoats imo...

 

[possm]

Agreed.

He had a run of error riddled games early last season, was dropped then came back and had a long run of error free games where he didn't look like dropping one and took some miraculous takes.

Then he got dropped again after 1 error it seemed when the drums were beating loudest for McFail and he was looking for scapegoats imo...

For the last few seasons I was a critic of McInnes's leadership skills and work from dummy half. I have always praised his defensive work and the way he leads the team when it comes to line speed in defence.

Now I am looking to see what a difference McCullough will make when he bring with him his leadership and game management skills. I am sure he will be very communicative on the field; especially when it comes to his fellow forwards defensive responsibilities.

By replacing McInnes with McCullough, the coahing staff are banking on the team having a more organized ruck in defence and attack. Hopefully the will also be increased responsibility shown by all players in defence, especially in the forwards.

 

[Dragsters]

For the last few seasons I was a critic of McInnes's leadership skills and work from dummy half. I have always praised his defensive work and the way he leads the team when it comes to line speed in defence.

Now I am looking to see what a difference McCullough will make when he bring with him his leadership and game management skills. I am sure he will be very communicative on the field; especially when it comes to his fellow forwards defensive responsibilities.

By replacing McInnes with McCullough, the coahing staff are banking on the team having a more organized ruck in defence and attack. Hopefully the will also be increased responsibility shown by all players in defence, especially in the forwards.

Me too but i was referring to Rava...

 

[Dragons154]

I actually don’t mind the signing TBH.

it removes any lingering thoughts of hunt moving to 9, which means he has to make it as a 7. Which is what his paid to do.

his near on a carbon copy of McInnes except for the fact that he is known as a organiser, which in turn removes that burden from hunt, which is a big reason why hunt was successful as a 9 as he didn’t have to steer the team and instead could play heads up footy.

you’d suspect that his on less money than McInnes.

if his fit and can stay healthy it might be a team changing signing.

 

[blacksafake]

He’s just got so much power (that we desperately need). If he can reduce his handling errors he could become a real crowd favourite. The more attention others get opens up more possibilities and opportunities for our halves and Dufty.

His hands really improved at the back end of last season.
For me he's one winger.

 

[blacksafake]

Rav got dropped though to end last season and wasn’t brought back in by Young. I don’t have a favourite but I’m keeping an open mind. Neither cemented their spot imo and if say a Matthew Feagai started the season well in CC either could lose their spot. Another note, JP played outside Aitken all season so that has to be taken into account, I’m sure Rava would have scored bugger all outside Aitken also.

I like JP but i can recall him having numerous chances to score in the corner but getting pushed into touch or dropping the ball in the tackle. Just lacks a little pace & runs too upright.

 

[Jersey No 14]

There is no doubt they will cock up in the early round but once they settle we could do some real damage in this competition.
Win it - No, but my eternal optimism says of course - Undefeted Premiers.
If we get 4th or 5th I will be chuffed
I expect (and they will be under presure) 7th or 8th under Hooks first season with a new club.

 

[Slippery Morris]

With all the negativity around Griffin when he got the job and the poor recruitment, if Saints make the 8 he should surely win Coach of the year. How good would that be for him? Super coach Gould would be cringing if that happened.

 

[Dragonslayer]

Imo, McCollough was never a 'player' signing as much as a 'culture' signing.

He will he our starting hooker in 2021.
The only question is durability. If fit and he remains so, this will be an outstanding signing both on AND off the field.
He may not have the speed around the ruck, however, the crispness andcaccuracy of passing will put our forwardsxand halves onbthe front foot, something we've lacked for several years now.

Interesting side note is now both McC and Hunt will be with us for 3 more years, yet no further news on Norman, so I dont see us re-signing him, especially with Bud seemingly ready to pounce. Young Amone will be 21 when Hunt finishes with us, prime time.

These youngsters need a leader, a role-model and McCollough seems well equiped to provide that to them.

The right culture is our right future.

 

[SEAT 1A]

“He’s someone who is going to be a big bonus for us, he’s experienced, he’s played a lot of finals football, 270 first grade games and Origin games, so for our squad where we are at the moment, he’s a great pick up for us.

“I think Andrew has got still a lot more potential in him, and that was the attraction if we happened to get him, is just to test him, and take him to another level.”

Hooks explanation on picking up McCullough is on point however, tells you more about our salary cap problems over the last several years.

I'm at bit miffed about taking him to another level. I would consider McCullough at the back end of his career.

 

[muzby]

I'm at bit miffed about taking him to another level. I would consider McCullough at the back end of his career.

Cam Smith only had 1 premiership at the same age, finished with another 2..

Life begins at 31

 

[ALSGI]

I actually don’t mind the signing TBH.

it removes any lingering thoughts of hunt moving to 9, which means he has to make it as a 7. Which is what his paid to do.

his near on a carbon copy of McInnes except for the fact that he is known as a organiser, which in turn removes that burden from hunt, which is a big reason why hunt was successful as a 9 as he didn’t have to steer the team and instead could play heads up footy.

you’d suspect that his on less money than McInnes.

if his fit and can stay healthy it might be a team changing signing.

Well said, agreed.

 

[Maddragon99]

I doubt that our 17 is settled as yet.

1. Fullback - Dufty
Dufty should have the inside running for the fullback position however, I believe he will only get the job if he has addressed his defensive problems and his lack of confidence under the high ball. I still see a real contest between Dufty and Ramsey for the fullback position.

2. Left Wing - Ramsey
Right now, the contest for the left wing position seems to be between Ramsey and JP, that is if Dufty remains at fullback and even though Ramsey is more suited towards the right wing position. Matt Feagai still needs time in CC but will very soon begin to make a claim for the left wing position.

3. Right Centre - Lomax
Lomax will be our right centre

4. Left Centre - Matt Feagai
In my opinion the contest for the left centre position is between Max Feagai and Williame. It seems to me that Max will be selected.

5. Right Wing - Ravalawa
Big and strong, Ravalawa will only need to show improvement in his defensive reads and positional play. If he can reproduce that agressive defence he displayed against the Eels las season he should hold the right wing position.

6. Sullivan - Five-eighth
Even though I believe Griffin planned on selecting Norman first up at 6, it is more than likely that Norman will have to serve some suspension time for the off-field incident no under investigation. A great chance for Sullivan to further stake his claims and added pressure on Norman to step up in 2021 or face time in CC.

7. Halfback - Hunt
Griffin has publicly stated that he wants to start the season with Hunt at 7.

8. Right Side Prop - Kerr
This starting prop position is up for grabs however, I believe it will Kerr that wins this race. Condenders are Alvaro and Faamausili. I'd say that Fui and Lawrie will work in tandem in the lock position.

9. Hooker - McCullough
Providing he is fit to play, McCullough will be our first choice hooker.

10. Left Side Prop - Vaughan
This is Vaughan's spot to loose. He needs to step up and play at his best to keep his position.

11. Left Side Edge Forward - Sims
Let's hope Sims can return to his best form for 2021

12. Right Side Edge Forward - Ford
Right now Ford is the front runner for the 12 jumper but will need to perform well to keep it. Bird when fit and Fui would be in contention for this position.

13. Lock - Lawrie
Most probably will work with Fui in tandem. both bring a different style to the position and so I am sure Griffin will devise a plan to instill some variety in the way he uses each of these players in the lock position.

14. Bench Utility - Bird
It is most likely that Bird will occupy the bench utility position in the early rounds of the season and until he regains match fitness. He is able to play most backline positions and possibly an edge forward position. Small minutes increasing as the season progresses.

15. Bench Prop - Alvaro
Recruited specifically to provide a robust role when Vaughan requires a break.

16. Bench Prop - Faamausili
An agile prop who will continue the efforts when replacing Kerr

17. Bench Backrow Forward - Fuimaono
Can play edge forward on both sides of the ruck and lock. He provides the versatility to cover all backrow position but will mainly be used in tandem with Lawrie at lock.

In my opinion the above line-up is our best 17 and if they can play to their potential they will be very competitive. Once Bird is fully fit and if De Belin becomes available, the Dragons should be a real force in 2021. We still have two spare spots in our 28 to fill by March so, depending on the talents of these two players, we can only hope that our chances of success will only look even better.

Do you honestly think Sullivan will get the start ahead of Norman?