I watched the replay of the NSW Cup game v Parramatta last night after our NRL loss, hoping to find some 'green shoots'.
Despite the scoreline, it was the first 5 minutes & probably a 10-min period in the 2nd half where we lost it. We actually didn't have a set until about the 8th minute of the match due to an error and back-to-back tries.
We also had a couple of disallowed tries and almost a spectacular kick-chase try to Casey that could have brought us right into it.
Positives I thought were Miller, Porter, Johanssen, Broederlow, Kit Laulilii, Casey, Feledy & Lobb. Vaihu was much better & Sukkar and Faataape were ok.
Miller is a beast and is starting to exert his size in defensive contact now too. Another consistent couple of months building his fitness in NSW Cup and he'll debut this season. I'm starting to believe!
Johanssen has been a real find from Ron Massey Cup, a bit slight at this stage for NRL but worth developing.
Kit Laulilii ran with authority, building his confidence nicely.
Broederlow could become our 'find' of the season if he continues on his trajectory. Can bust tackles, strong PCM and solid defence. If they keep him in NSW Cup, I can see him becoming a late season bolter for an NRL debut off-the-bench (would need to be upgraded to a T&T contract though).
Feledy seems to be benefitting from consistent reps in NSW Cup, amazing isn't it. If he can allay doubts over his defence, he may put himself back into the picture later this season.
Lobb was good too. He does seem slowish in chases requiring fast acceleration but his top speed is quite good going off his long-range try late in the game. No better, no worse than Staines at the moment.
Declan Casey was really strong in A & D and makes good decisions most of the time and brings effort. He actually has game IQ unlike Naden.
Summary:
Miller & Broederlow - I'm getting excited about what both can offer with more consistent reps in NSW Cup.
Kit Laulilii & Feledy - building into the season nicely, showing good improvement.
Casey - watch out for NRL team selections tomorrow me thinks (IQ & effort)
Lobb - any injury to Staines & Lobb comes in.