& the problem with Eddies post is that we, due to many factors are desparate for wins. LAst week for instance was pretty much our season, that is why Carney played, when he shouldnt have. WE have lost a few very close games that perhaps, we may have won. Throw 1 spot to one of the kids, who will make a mistake or 2 & we are risking the season, not the game.
I am sure there is a method to bring the ones we need into first grade & not the ridiculousness that we read on here.
Our average losing margin this year is 15 points. We have not had two consecutive losses of less than 18 points.
Now that our season is well and truly done, and with the origin period coming up, that we should start to bring in some youth. I'm not saying wholesale changes, but some signal to the young players they will be given an opportunity.
Take Penani for example. He is getting overlooked for Daniel Holdsworth, who we know offers nothing to the side this year or in the future. Penani has represented Samao in the World Cup and in the game that secured their place in the 4 Nations (meanwhile scoring 3 tries) - and still only got a game when both halves were out.
Michael Lichaa has played reasonably well in his few first grade games this year. So much so that he represented City in the City-Country game (yes, as a result of a number of injuries). That means selectors thought he was a better option than both of our ageing hookers. How do we repay his form? By dropping him.
This is why there is uproar from the fans and, reportedly, from the playing group. Had we acted earlier, it's likely Lichaa would have stayed. And, as of yet, we have not resigned Penani. But why would he want to stay? Based on actions, the club has no plans to use him in the future.
