2027 pre-season thread

[Seano]

Good clubs don't spend $600-700k on backup outside backs.

This will come as quite a shock to Bradman Best. Where does he send his overpayment?

Winter has barely any FG experience, so proclaiming what he will or won't do as absolutes seems fraught either way. What is sure, though, is that with Gags going, even if we retain Best, there will be plenty of opportunity at centre, wing and FB in first grade as 27 rounds, form, injuries and rep duty are a lot to cover.

I really hope we can find a way to keep Hunt.

 

[frankLauda]

That’s a definite conundrum for the coach if Ponga is not available.
Options
Hunt to FB (least disruption)
Fletch to FB > Smith into the halves

Also I mentioned before I think Winter is more a centre, where as Hunt is more versatile in the whole backline. That’s why I think Winter will get that right centre spot.

 

[frankLauda]

I don’t think coach’s actually do this, because of forced changes, but with a 27 round comp, I’m surprised coach’s don’t consider resting players certain games through the season. Bit of a rotation policy. But that would be a by product of a healthy squad most of the season.

 

[bremsstrahlung]

I don’t think coach’s actually do this, because of forced changes, but with a 27 round comp, I’m surprised coach’s don’t consider resting players certain games through the season. Bit of a rotation policy. But that would be a by product of a healthy squad most of the season.

I wouldn't be surprised if we see this with our forwards next season.

It seems a way to fit them all in and keep them happy and fresh. Perhaps allow us to tailor our approach to each team as well.

If it works - great, fresh players etc

The downside - lack of consistency and could lead to some disjointed performances.

In my mind the 2RF conundrum of Lucas, McEwen and Manulelua lends itself to a bit of a rotation. But I also think it’s important to get some consistency in that positions.

Opposed to say Prop - where we aren’t asking for a tactical masterclass from them. Go on, run hard, tackle harder, earn your rest. But against stronger teams having one of Mooney and Safs on at all times as our “alpha” would help.

I think our backline will see plenty of forced changes unfortunately throughout the season. Hunt could very much be a “Smith”. Probably too good to sit on the bench every week - but having him as back up means our season won’t be derailed if there’s an injury.