BroncsFan
International Captain
Contributor
- Jul 28, 2016
- 23,117
- 34,275
In recent times these 13's have been failed halves, but they need solid defence and endurance... Salmon, Hayward, Mann, Walker, Watson, Victor (unsure if he was a half), Randall, Crossland, Plath, etc.
I liked when we had Gamble doing that role... bigger body and was good at digging into the line. Also dangerous enough with the run that he had to be respected.
Smoothy looked alright to cover that role when he got a chance and would fit into hooking rotation... does first 30 before Mozer then 20 to relieve Patty. I wouldnt mind seeing if Billy can do that kind of role as well... his defence is pretty solid in the middle. My concern would be that he goes off script too often and he'd be susceptible to over playing his hand (kicks in behind, etc.) can make it difficult for the backline if the ball is not always guaranteed to get to them.
Another alternative is a more skillful second rower that can do a little bit of passing.
They'll still have a place in the 17 each week and could get 50mins a game out of them... first 30 on the edge then 20 in the middle to relieve Patty.
Capewell could've done this role, but we got rid of him... I've not seen if Piaks can, but seems unlikely, and I doubt Riki can.
They dont fall off trees, but it would be a perfect 17 for us if they can cover edge, middle and ballplaying lock... I dont think Palasia can btw... I always hated seeing him pop up in the second row... however Kevvie has had a focus on improving the ballplaying of the middles... Patty, Payne and Palasia... so potentially the skill can be taught to an extent.
