Dragonslayer
First Grade
- Messages
- 7,810
Whilst I'm very happy that he is going to re-sign, I find it curious what has gone on behind the scenes.
Millward was quoted as saying that Field would be groomed at fullback, then transitioned into the 5/8 role to partner Hunt. That appears to have been either a case of Millward over reacting or the expectation that IF Widdop was going to re-sign it would only be a short contract of 1 or 2 years. Both though indicate that the shifting sands of recruitment cannot be predicted, especially in this market. I think it would have been a benefit for everyone if Millward didn't open his mouth about these issues.
Now as for Dugan, he has really backed himself into a corner, as it appears even the Tigers are not interested in him. Really only the Knights may be tempted given they lost Bird and could use a defensive fullback, but at what cost and what would be the difference for Dugan to sign with them or us or even French rugby?
They way it looks to me is that with the re-signing of Widdop as 5/8 for 4yrs, what is to be done with Field? My guess is that Dugan, as I mentioned above, is not a super priority for us. I feel that Field will play ffullback next year and given this year and another pre-season to "bulk-up" but without losing his dynamic speed.
I think Millward has a vision of a spine of:
Field
Widdop
Hunt
McInnes
Also, if Dugan isn't re-signed then use his current money and the priority must go (in order) Packer, McInnes - (extension), Mann+ Lafai, Lawrie + Kerr.
Millward was quoted as saying that Field would be groomed at fullback, then transitioned into the 5/8 role to partner Hunt. That appears to have been either a case of Millward over reacting or the expectation that IF Widdop was going to re-sign it would only be a short contract of 1 or 2 years. Both though indicate that the shifting sands of recruitment cannot be predicted, especially in this market. I think it would have been a benefit for everyone if Millward didn't open his mouth about these issues.
Now as for Dugan, he has really backed himself into a corner, as it appears even the Tigers are not interested in him. Really only the Knights may be tempted given they lost Bird and could use a defensive fullback, but at what cost and what would be the difference for Dugan to sign with them or us or even French rugby?
They way it looks to me is that with the re-signing of Widdop as 5/8 for 4yrs, what is to be done with Field? My guess is that Dugan, as I mentioned above, is not a super priority for us. I feel that Field will play ffullback next year and given this year and another pre-season to "bulk-up" but without losing his dynamic speed.
I think Millward has a vision of a spine of:
Field
Widdop
Hunt
McInnes
Also, if Dugan isn't re-signed then use his current money and the priority must go (in order) Packer, McInnes - (extension), Mann+ Lafai, Lawrie + Kerr.
