Glad TSS got his chance today. Really earned it with some really solid cup performances. But he needs to get a better photo. Dead set looks like a smiling convict.
Starting 13 was looking more balanced with Capewell back to 2RF, Niukore back to bench middle. That right edge has not been working on D with the Niukore/Capewell combo.
maybe the worry was more about RTS. RTS has trained all pre-season on the wing, so the transition for him back onto the side is smoother by having him on the wing as opposed to center.
Starting 13 was looking more balanced with Capewell back to 2RF, Niukore back to bench middle. That right edge has not been working on D with the Niukore/Capewell combo.
I'm looking forward to Stowers-Smith debuting. It is well earned with his Cup performances the last few years. He has a big motor for that grade it will be interesting to see how it translates to NRL level.
Reward Cup performances with a taste of first grade. Give them motivation to play more.
I agree. It has puzzled me why no coach other than Bellamy has really targeted TT's size this year. Certainly prefer RTS on the wing. He's also a bigger body and gives us 150+ meters per game.
maybe the worry was more about RTS. RTS has trained all pre-season on the wing, so the transition for him back onto the side is smoother by having him on the wing as opposed to center.
Fuck thats a pretty massive shake up. Considering the social media posts and things. Even if TT is 19th man, it would not surprise me if he is slightly injuried, otherwise why ship him out at all?
I also preferred Capewell to forwards. Though if it’s wet the Dolphins may be tempted to over play their hand.
I do think it is the signal that Tuaupiki is just not quite at NRL level. He has looked dangerous but hasn’t been able to capitalise on his half breaks in the way that a weeks or kini do. If you are going to be his size in first grade you need to light it up when you get the half chances. He has been close but hasn’t quite iced them.
The debate the coaches would have had with RTS coming back was plug the whole due to the injuries to our centres or put him back to the wing which is the overall plan for this year.
It's tough for Tuaupiki who has done well filling in on the wing.
We do get our preferred wingers back and will have some strong early set carries with RTS back.
To adjust a Homer Simpson quote. If we win I'll praise it, if we lose I'll criticise it until my throat/fingers get sore.