What is it with NRL, it's SPINE SPINE SPINE!I don't think we need to be breaking the bank on a big money outside back like May or Best.
Luai was worth it because he's a spine players. I'm confident Luai and Fainu will make our existing outside backs like To'a look a lot better. It's a shame Tupou is leaving as I think he would have benefited as well.
There could be another back step up this year like Saukuru. Galvin could even start in the centres.
Sure, your spine is good at arranging your defensive lineup, setting up tries and mananging the flow of the game (aka Cameron Smith).
Last year we had:
Api,
Voldemort,
AD/Will Smith/Daine Laurie
Bula
That's a lot of changing, but not the worlds worst spine. Look at our backs though, we had total turnstyles at Center and wing. Our backs other then Bula SUCKED.
Now not knocking Bula too much, he is a great asset. But he is a first year fullback and really needs to be coached on positioning and defense. You know all the stuff we did not coach Daine Laurie on.
This year:
Forward pack is the same, should improve with consistency.
Spine is Ok on Paper, hoping Sullivan/Sezer/Fainu can gel and form combinations. It is particularly rough that all these new players are coming together now.
Backs, Same as last year
I am thinking 15th.