For next week i think we need all 4 props.
Ferguson, on today's performance is clearly x-factor and must play, if only for the showboating backflip ability - after scoring a try i might add. Great debut and set-up a length of field try following a defensive catch of a high ball near our own line. Want to try that attacking ploy Fev? You have been warned.
Ipape must be on the bench. He adds real zip from dummy half. He has to be in the squad because Smith always seems to take a heavy knock every game. If it wasn't so serious, which it clearly is, then it would be comical given its regularity. Ipape also provides cover at half back (and possibly wing) as does Asiata (at half back, not wing!) if backs get injured and a reshuffle is necessary
O'Donnell has to be on the bench with 2 of the props because he is fast and dynamic and also covers a number of positions at a push.
All of this means, that for me as well, Brand is going to be extremely unlucky and will miss out. If he does miss out then it will seem to be very hard on him since he has done absolutely nothing wrong this season and is clearly growing in his game. However, we need to be realistic, he simply cannot keep out Ferguson. Brand has played fantastically well out of position but the only way i see him in the squad is if he is used on the bench, as today, as cover for the back 3 and centre positions. Unfortunately, i think that is a luxury selection that we cannot afford to make. We will need to take on Fev up front and beat them there. If we are to do that then we need two big props on the bench as interchange.
Septimius, I have not got a problem with your suggested 17. This is, of course, based on the assumption that everyone is fit for selection. Roll on London!
