BlackWhiteGold
Well-known member
I'm starting to agree on this too.The irony in this forthcoming overhaul of the forward pack is that the very thing this club needs; experienced, no-nonsense workers, would be met with eye rolls and almost anger by the fanbase, who'd likely feel those types of signings would be underwhelming (sadly, myself included).
Coming from where we are, we're always after a major kill, but, it's becoming more and more apparent, clubs need mid-tier, quality workers just as much, if not more than top-tier wannabe stars.
The Warriors and Bulldogs are perfect examples.
On the surface, I don't like their approach to rebuilding, and I think it's an approach that is more likely to yield 8th place than premierships, but it's hard to argue with what the Warriors did last year and what the Dogs are doing this year. Throw the Dragons in there as well, though I think their turnaround is more down to a mentality change than anything.
Barnett, Harris, Ford and Capewell and Niukore for the Warriors are the case in point.
For one, we have the makings of a 1st class spine for years to come so we need to build around this with solid, no-nonsense types & finishers who won't be top dollar.
Two, we have to consider the juniors coming through & ensuring future squad space & cap for them i.e. Makasini, Large, Godinet, Taupau-Moors, Haywood, Isdale etc
If we can land a Oregon Kaufusi or Griffin Neame from Nov 1 for '26, add to our middles for '25 with a Royce Hunt or Bunty Afoa or Herman Ese Ese back from ESL plus a subsidised Tyson Frizell.
A huge get from ESL that would fit the profile for what we need is Morgan Knowles as a lock/small prop.
Plus a Sione Mata'utia as backrow/centre utility from ESL or a Jack Williams.
Remis Smith would also be a solid experienced off-contract acquisition regardless of whether many see him as a hog.
And if we have a 'war' chest still up our sleeve for Nov 1, then Kotoni Staggs or Selwyn Cobbo!!!