He’s been carrying a few niggles for about four weeks now, so seems a great opportunity to rest him. Olpherts and McGillvary will kill them out of backfield.
Pleased with how we line up today - really interested to see how Booth goes, and glad to see Powell partner Lino with Kay. Can’t be certain Gale will be fit even for the big games so be great to have a rehearsed, solid backup pairing.
Not sure what role Rodwell and Pitts will play. Can’t see Rodwell being as effective as a wide-running back rower, so assume we’ll either play really tight and direct with him, or Pitts will move out there in good ball. Would love to be proved wrong with Rodwell though, maybe he can do it all.