We've collectively moaned for the last few seasons about a lack of half-backs. We now have two marquee signings in Austin and Widdop. Austin has demonstrated a commitment to making a go of it in the UK and we've seen what he is capable of over here. We know what Widdop can do, the risk is around his age / injury record.
Having used up our two marquee spots we now have to compete on the open market, within the limits of the salary cap, against NRL and SL clubs some of whom have not filled both their marquee slots. It doesn't matter how much money our benefactors are prepared to put into the club, we are limited by the cap and we are likely to be some way down the batting order.
As things stand we need Akauola to step up in 2020.