The Season started with some optimism but as usual this was misplaced. A launch of sorts, quite low key but a launch none the less of the new kit and the squad. A shirt that once again started to look like a rugby league shirt. Then the pre-season friendlies started. Some encouragement at Catalan and then reality.
Most of the senior players around which the team was expected to be built upon were crocked or left. The Coach left, the usual northerner who went back almost as soon as the ink was dry on his contract when he discovered his bus pass didn’t work. The two on-field captains injured in the second game, neither to return for the season. The ‘prize’ half injured the year before and not available until mid Summer. A lack of props, oh a lack of props. Seven of the senior group missing so it was the kids that were expected to deliver. Would it have been any different, yes it might have been a lot worse. We could have limped through with 2016 having to be yet another complete start.
Instead the assistant coach steps up, sounds familiar, but one with a strong grounding and experience in the game. Maybe things could improve though the words of warning regarding the weeks to start to turn it round suggested this was a long term project and not just this season. Calamity at Leigh in the cup. The corporate hospitality shifted from cuisine to pub grub. Jubilee Line was closed more often than not and an unwanted familiarity with the Northern Line was developed. Wes stepped up as captain and it has to be said has been solid and occasionally inspiring throughout.
Some extra signings were required, Kear and Thackray aren't a bad start, but too many dual registration fixes, a year long loan that wasn't which robbed us of a good hooker. Often dominated up front, not quick enough around the ruck and sometimes short of ideas. So we have blooded a number of young players, one or two showing they have bright futures. Other youngsters have held it together probably being over played this year. The back line has been consistent and reliable all year.
A number of games with good wins, number of wins but not convincing and a number of games where we were outclassed by a bigger team who did the basics better and sometimes looked fitter! Another year of hoping next year will be better and we will finally turn the corner.
