If I was coach, Reed would be one of the first picked to start in the number 7 jersey. I think we would be a better chance of winning with Reed than Kyle.
W Smith a club legend
W Smith a legend and I watched him and Changa combine for many tries
Finau and LKT didn't have good games but weren't that bad either. Though I don't think Finau is in the top 30 or on a development contract so LKT in the team and he or Kyle to fill in at dummy half if Cook can't play 80 minutes. Flanno would prefer Cook gets a rest but I think he can play for the full 80 minutes unless he is injured.
I wouldn't rush Liddle back. I would even give him an extra week after he is right to go. Recurring hamstring injuries are very common.
Look, my views, yes Cook could play 80 minutes but his effectiveness will not be as good. He will be 35 yrs old during this season . I think it's too big an ask. It really all depends on the recovery of Liddle and from my past experiences with hammy injuries he may not come back as good. Time will tell.
Yeah, to me that is exactly how I see it. Cook isn't an 80 minute hooker anymore, Kyle some game time at hooker and there to cover an injury to a half if needed, with Reed and Acko in the halves looks our best option now. If Reed was to perform, he would then keep his spot when Liddle returns and Kyle would be back to NSW Cup. But thinking about it, I doubt Flanno will drop his son after him being first choice 5/8 all pre season. If they did what I just said to do, Liddle's injury could prove a blessing in disguise. Give Reed 3 or 4 games and when Liddle returns then re-assess the situation.
I think he'll be fine for a couple of games and if liddle injury is something more long term then we can scope the market for a legitimate hooker. We shouldn't rush into selecting a back up hooker or recruiting for one.
I doubt that will ever happen and there is also no better way to stunt the development of a young player than playing him out of position. It just isn't feasible to throw Reed to the wolves. He is a talent that fulfils our 7 position for many years to come hopefully after he debuts in 1sts
Perhaps, time will tell
Our quality depth is in our forwards, not so good elsewhere
You have to be realistic when analysing our squad. Especially our current spine.
It's either we buy a veteran for 12mths whos not going to play first grade otherwise.. just has to be serviceable...any injury to either cook or liddle and its first grade game time here...
I wouldn't be playing Reed out of position. I would be playing him halfback with Acko 5/8 and Kyle on the bench to play hooker and be cover if there was an injury to a half. I also don't like the term "throwing him to the wolves" lol It is over dramatic. I have pointed out many a time 17 year old and 18 year olds playing first grade. Look how small Kini is and he excelled at fullback aged 18. If he was in our system, there would have been many posters saying the same thing about him, when he was 18. Reed showed on Saturday night he is ready for first grade. I think he is our best number 7 and would give him first crack at it. If he performs well for the first few games while Liddle is out, then Kyle would be dropping back to NSW Cup and Reed and Acko would be our halves pairing for the rest of the season. A year in first grade this year, would mean he would be more seasoned by next year.
Agree he was stationary on most occasions. I love his enthusiasm on the field he is a players and team cpt we all as coaches would welcome. Highly respected and thought of. I hope he has a good season.