nadera78 wrote:
In Rea's time in charge we lost Darrell Griffin (gone on to have a solid SL career) and James Brooks (went on to have a solid RU career - would have been an excellent hooker). Plus the likes of Iain Morrison, Stefan Hughes and Ed Jennings were never given a fair crack of the whip.
I'm certain in my mind that he preferred a seasoned Aussie who would give average performances every week than work with a youngster who would have ups and downs but potentially deliver more over the long term. That was my view back then, and it remains my view now.
I'd also say that I didn't like the way he behaved when sacking John Monie (who himself had been coaching an inherited team), signing the players Monie had earmarked for the new season, and then appointing himself head coach.
You've clearly got a better understanding of the background than me, but I do know I was a much happier fan watching teams in that era with the likes of Moran, Mclinden, Leuluai, Williams, Haumono, Hopkins. Even the budget players were good value, Luisi, NBQ, Lee Greenwood...
McDermott brought in so many poor players from the north and youth sides that we've had terrible squads for the last few years. Even the Aussies have been average at best with the odd exception.
I'm pleased the TR will be building the next squad not McDermott or Powell.
