I remember when the Tigers were considered a 'basket case' under the very loose rule of Lamb & Langmack. Players get in trouble, poor recruitment, signing other teams cast-off's.
We were a shambles.
Then we hired Sheens. Who systematically went through the squad, cutting, releasing etc. His plan was to promote from within.
It took 2 years to go from the shambles of Lamb to 2005. By then, the team was filled with our juniors, as well as some strategic signings from outside.
I'm pretty sure a bunch of Tigers fans were miserable back then too.
We have some very promising players in the club. Bula, Pole, Tupou & Utoikamanu are already starters. Da Silva & Matamua are on the cusp. Faagutu & Galvin not far away. Miller too. Feledy was in the extended squad.
There are a host coming trough behind them as well.
I'd love the team to add the Fainu's to fast track things. But if we miss out, we miss out. The success of this club will not be dependent on 1 or 2 signings from outside the squad. They will help. The progression of special talent from within will determine if we get out of this mess.
Only a few years ago, Penrith were bottom feeders. This system works.