This forum depends too much on wins and losses as a measure of a player's performance. Now it's unfair to criticise Brooks when two weeks ago we were setting up petitions and boycott movements if he was picked again? We need to be more measured. Similar things with Laurie. He started season badly and people wanted him gone. But if anyone has benefited from the return of Hastings, it's been Laurie, he looked in career best form the last two weeks. A genuine star fullback.
Brooks is much better in his new role, but that short ball bullet pass he threw to cause a knock on was terrible. Souths went onto score with a man down and took a 10-6 lead. It felt too familiar, an absolute momentum killer and is, unfortunately, a bit too common in Brooks' play. I've liked his play but I agree with Earl that he still needs to improve. Hastings had a few dodgy passes too, none of which resulted in errors, but given our entire attacking structure seems to now depend on him, these two players serve different roles and you place different expectations on them. Brooks has a simple role now, he needs to execute better.
I'm not against Brooks, it's only this season I've felt he should be moved on, arguing that until we find a better option he's the best we have, so I'm pleased to see him look much better these last few weeks and it'd be brilliant if he continues to play well. But I still think it's okay to be critical.
