Cas Game : Thu Dec 26, 2013 5:17 pm
Pretty impressive run out for the teams first outing I thought.Some of the new lads really stood out and it looks like we have the makings of a pretty decent team with plenty of strength in depth. Cas had a pretty decent team out to start the game and we stood up really well against them and it was probably closer than the 18-4 scoreline suggested at that point with their first couple of tries looking dubious to say the least.
Both teams still have a few players to come in though and although we shouldnt get too carried away as Cas are going to be one of the lower SL sides again it was still probably a step up in intensity to what the players have been used to. Of the new guys Mennell and Kaye both had good games and the ball was much better from acting half than it has been, Mennell`s long ball for one of Potts tries was a good example.
Sam Brooks had a good game off the bench and I just wonder who is going to make way for him because unless he picks up an injury I would expect him to be in the 17 for most games. Simon Browns kicking game was superb and he found grass with nearly every single kick which at our level should make a big difference and his half back partner Johnson looks a right handfull and caused Cas a lot of trouble on numerous occasions. Gareth Potts can clearly finish there is no doubt about that and on todays showing its really hard to see Worrincy getting much game time. As a big fan of his that is quite disappointing as i was hoping the competition for places would do him good but he looked really lackluster today and Potts and Rettie are far and away in front of him in the pecking order.
Of the players from last season, Fieldhouse and Heaton were probably pick of the backs with Tyrer showing some good defence but also getting caught on a couple of occasions. I expect his place to be under real pressure with Cowling to come in and will struggle to get in if the loan centre comes in. Heaton looks to keep improving with good defence and attack apart from I just wish the coaching staff would help him with his passing which is one area that lets him down.
Our forwards were good again with Tonks leading the way, the other props went well and Manning pulled off a couple of great tackles in the second half and at times Adamson and Divorty caused them problems. Murrell was steady away and was of the pitch for a lot of the game but we already know how good he is and his enthusiasm seems to rub off on the other players.
Early days though but the signs were very encouraging.