Signings, Suggestions & Rumours Discussion

[Speed2burn]

NRL 2021: Wests Tigers’ rebuilt pack to break ‘ninth place’ curse

Shawn Blore has read all the stories already writing off his club’s 2021 chances. But the rising Tigers forward says the club’s rebuilt pack can shut the naysayers up.Wests Tigers young gun Shawn Blore shudders at the memory of the pain that comes with tackling former Parramatta behemoth Stefano Utoikamanu.

It’s one of the reasons Blore is relieved Utoikamanu is now a teammate at Concord.

Penrith product Blore played against Utoikamanu all through the junior grades and has experienced the devastation of the prop’s power first hand.

“I grew up playing with Stefano and I hated tackling him,” Blore said.

“Every time I slipped on an opposition jersey against him I hated it because I knew he’d be running at me and he’s that hard to tackle.

“Bro, he’s massive and weighs like 116kg and is already the second-fittest forward in the team. He’s a freak.

“Wait until he finds his feet in the NRL — he is going to be something special.”


Blore believes the acquisition of Utoikamanu, Brisbane’s Joe Ofahengaue and former Penrith skipper and teammate James Tamou will transform the Tigers’ forward pack into one of the NRL’s most formidable in season 2021.

The kind of forward pack that can end the Tigers’ finals exile and end the “ninth place” taunts that Blore, 20, has had enough of reading on social media. The Concord club has finished 9th on the NRL ladder three times since last making a finals appearance in 2011.

“Once he (Utoikamanu) finds his feet in the NRL our forward pack is going to be pretty tough to stop,” Blore said.


“I know a lot of people on socials are saying ‘oh the Tigers and the ninth spot’ and stuff like that but I truly believe that we are on the rise.

“With Stefano and Joffa (Ofahengaue) and the guys we already have, we are going to have a great forward pack once we get some time in together.

“Reading that stuff about being written off is going to be good for us, we can really prove a point in 2021 because we have a lot of talent here.

“That talk motivates me and I hope it motivates the other boys.”


Blore, 20, made a memorable NRL debut back in round 11 against the Eels earlier this year.

Faced with the task of taking on Parramatta enforcer Nathan Brown, Blore refused to be intimidated by the more seasoned campaigner and delivered a rousing display of aggression and tenacity.

With five NRL games now under his belt, all off the bench, Blore has set himself a lofty goal of snaring a starting edge spot.

Luciano Leilua is expected to again start on the left edge and the inside word from Concord is that Blore, a Junior Kangaroo, is on course to snaring the second-row spot on the right spot as he continues to impress during the pre-season.



“In our annual coach’s meeting I spoke to Madge (Maguire) about what I want to do next year and about goals for myself. I want to put good consistent footy together because I know I have a lot more in the tank.

“This pre-season is about getting fit and nailing a starting spot.

“I’ll play wherever Madge wants me but I do love playing in the back row. I grew up playing there.”

Blore is really impressive, love his attitude towards the club. I just pray the inevitable doesn’t happen where he becomes one of the elite back rowers in the comp and signs elsewhere

I agree with your thoughts on Blore, surely a possible future captain.

I think we have smarter people running the place now, so hopefully won’t be a club issue if he does.

He’s a breath of fresh air after the supposed “toxic” culture we’ve been reading about in the papers after the Aloiai stuff that’s for sure

 

[Another Pom]

I know that it has little effect on us as his contract with us had ended, but it looks like Elijah Taylor is set to join Salford and not follow Aloiai to Manly.

 

[happy_tiger]

People want AJ at fullback with the amount of bombs he has dropped so far

He would have the worst percentage of bombs defused in the NRL from 2020

 

[happy_tiger]

NRL 2021: Wests Tigers’ rebuilt pack to break ‘ninth place’ curse

Shawn Blore has read all the stories already writing off his club’s 2021 chances. But the rising Tigers forward says the club’s rebuilt pack can shut the naysayers up.Wests Tigers young gun Shawn Blore shudders at the memory of the pain that comes with tackling former Parramatta behemoth Stefano Utoikamanu.

It’s one of the reasons Blore is relieved Utoikamanu is now a teammate at Concord.

Penrith product Blore played against Utoikamanu all through the junior grades and has experienced the devastation of the prop’s power first hand.

“I grew up playing with Stefano and I hated tackling him,” Blore said.

“Every time I slipped on an opposition jersey against him I hated it because I knew he’d be running at me and he’s that hard to tackle.

“Bro, he’s massive and weighs like 116kg and is already the second-fittest forward in the team. He’s a freak.

“Wait until he finds his feet in the NRL — he is going to be something special.”


Blore believes the acquisition of Utoikamanu, Brisbane’s Joe Ofahengaue and former Penrith skipper and teammate James Tamou will transform the Tigers’ forward pack into one of the NRL’s most formidable in season 2021.

The kind of forward pack that can end the Tigers’ finals exile and end the “ninth place” taunts that Blore, 20, has had enough of reading on social media. The Concord club has finished 9th on the NRL ladder three times since last making a finals appearance in 2011.

“Once he (Utoikamanu) finds his feet in the NRL our forward pack is going to be pretty tough to stop,” Blore said.


“I know a lot of people on socials are saying ‘oh the Tigers and the ninth spot’ and stuff like that but I truly believe that we are on the rise.

“With Stefano and Joffa (Ofahengaue) and the guys we already have, we are going to have a great forward pack once we get some time in together.

“Reading that stuff about being written off is going to be good for us, we can really prove a point in 2021 because we have a lot of talent here.

“That talk motivates me and I hope it motivates the other boys.”


Blore, 20, made a memorable NRL debut back in round 11 against the Eels earlier this year.

Faced with the task of taking on Parramatta enforcer Nathan Brown, Blore refused to be intimidated by the more seasoned campaigner and delivered a rousing display of aggression and tenacity.

With five NRL games now under his belt, all off the bench, Blore has set himself a lofty goal of snaring a starting edge spot.

Luciano Leilua is expected to again start on the left edge and the inside word from Concord is that Blore, a Junior Kangaroo, is on course to snaring the second-row spot on the right spot as he continues to impress during the pre-season.



“In our annual coach’s meeting I spoke to Madge (Maguire) about what I want to do next year and about goals for myself. I want to put good consistent footy together because I know I have a lot more in the tank.

“This pre-season is about getting fit and nailing a starting spot.

“I’ll play wherever Madge wants me but I do love playing in the back row. I grew up playing there.”

Blore is really impressive, love his attitude towards the club. I just pray the inevitable doesn’t happen where he becomes one of the elite back rowers in the comp and signs elsewhere

Simple Shawn ...walk the walk mate ....earn the spot and it's yours ...and then keep on improving and learning

 

[pawsandclaws1]

Saw a photo of bj Leilua on twitter today, jesus christ the dude has changed so much, highly recommend everyone go have a lookie

Post it please dude?

Fit joey


First time i have ever seen BJ look cut
Let's hope that gives him more confidence to trample over his opposition

I read in an article the exact same thing happened when he joined Canberra. His first year there he was unfit and struggled, came back the next year cut a heap of weight and got fit and was dally m centre. He’s such a damaging ball runner, hopefully fixing his weight and mobility fixes his defence too.

When do you say enough? Wouldn't it be preferable to put our long term option in the centre and stick with him?

I think he’ll be good for us next year and if he’s playing good enough he’s gotta be in the team. Hard to know if Roberts will play and Talau could play wing or centre.

Pretty much regardless of contracts and age whoever’s playing the best should be starting and I think it’ll be Joey combining well with Doueihi on that right edge

Physical fitness and pyschological makeup are the difference between an outstanding player and the weakest link. Why do WTs believe they are different to the Raiders, Newcastle or the Roosters?

Covid is not going away. While overseas arrivals continue, the risk of the infection into the community is real. We may not see our families at Christmas and I would not be surprised if a bubble is not being planned for next season. So what will change?

None of what you said made sense. Literally nothing. Like what dyu even mean here?

"Physical fitness and pyschological makeup are the difference between an outstanding player and the weakest link. Why do WTs believe they are different to the Raiders, Newcastle or the Roosters?"

Lmao

It's pretty clear and one poster has responded. Like what don't you understand?

Paws, I rate you cos you seem very sure of yourself. But read the last few posts. The translations getting lost a bit.
Something I noticed about you, your hell bent on hating players immediately. Nofa, Bj, Luciano.

Also look at the rating on your last few posts, cos they are in the negatives mate, "specially the post in question"

regardless lets banter, I'll always be down.

I can't recall ever writing a negative post about Luciano.

Leilua J has been an extremely poor buy, so against the youth approach we have adopted.

My view on Nofoaluma is clear so I don't need to repeat it.

As for recruitment, I like to read Sir Alex Fergusons approach and note the synergies between him having little money and investing what he did have in youth and the WTs' approach.

https://www.opustalentsolutions.com/blog-news-and-social/sir-alex-fergusons-talent-strategy-how-to-build-a-successful-team

Usually , I am fairly positive towards the Club but this is a forum so views will differ. As for negative reps, who cares.

He was obviously a great man manager re..."Fergie would reserve the 'hairdryer' for players he knew could take it, treating others differently, perhaps offering a few quiet words of encouragement"
I would love to be a fly on the wall at Madge's team meetings to see how he handles various players in Our Team.

.

Magpies,

This is a great article about Sir Alex's use of psychology interestingly directed towards referees, other managers and players. His capacity to change gameplans to target the psychological weaknesses of an individual player opposing MU is outstanding.

I never fail to be fascinated by his attention to detail and understanding that some of his stars never received the 'hair dryer' treatment if they didn't perform. He knew they would perform when needed.

A friend in the US advised many of the professional sports make prospective recruits undergo psychological assessment to ensure they are suitable for recruitment. I know one question asked by at least one baseball team to rcruits is 'Do you want to play for us?' If the answer isno then the process ends.

Thanks for your feedback.

https://www.skysports.com/football/news/11667/11980422/fergies-mind-games-dont-let-vieira-ref-the-match

 

[Deleted member 3518]

Saw a photo of bj Leilua on twitter today, jesus christ the dude has changed so much, highly recommend everyone go have a lookie

Post it please dude?

Fit joey


First time i have ever seen BJ look cut
Let's hope that gives him more confidence to trample over his opposition

I read in an article the exact same thing happened when he joined Canberra. His first year there he was unfit and struggled, came back the next year cut a heap of weight and got fit and was dally m centre. He’s such a damaging ball runner, hopefully fixing his weight and mobility fixes his defence too.

When do you say enough? Wouldn't it be preferable to put our long term option in the centre and stick with him?

I think he’ll be good for us next year and if he’s playing good enough he’s gotta be in the team. Hard to know if Roberts will play and Talau could play wing or centre.

Pretty much regardless of contracts and age whoever’s playing the best should be starting and I think it’ll be Joey combining well with Doueihi on that right edge

Physical fitness and pyschological makeup are the difference between an outstanding player and the weakest link. Why do WTs believe they are different to the Raiders, Newcastle or the Roosters?

Covid is not going away. While overseas arrivals continue, the risk of the infection into the community is real. We may not see our families at Christmas and I would not be surprised if a bubble is not being planned for next season. So what will change?

None of what you said made sense. Literally nothing. Like what dyu even mean here?

"Physical fitness and pyschological makeup are the difference between an outstanding player and the weakest link. Why do WTs believe they are different to the Raiders, Newcastle or the Roosters?"

Lmao

It's pretty clear and one poster has responded. Like what don't you understand?

Paws, I rate you cos you seem very sure of yourself. But read the last few posts. The translations getting lost a bit.
Something I noticed about you, your hell bent on hating players immediately. Nofa, Bj, Luciano.

Also look at the rating on your last few posts, cos they are in the negatives mate, "specially the post in question"

regardless lets banter, I'll always be down.

I can't recall ever writing a negative post about Luciano.

Leilua J has been an extremely poor buy, so against the youth approach we have adopted.

My view on Nofoaluma is clear so I don't need to repeat it.

As for recruitment, I like to read Sir Alex Fergusons approach and note the synergies between him having little money and investing what he did have in youth and the WTs' approach.

https://www.opustalentsolutions.com/blog-news-and-social/sir-alex-fergusons-talent-strategy-how-to-build-a-successful-team

Usually , I am fairly positive towards the Club but this is a forum so views will differ. As for negative reps, who cares.

He was obviously a great man manager re..."Fergie would reserve the 'hairdryer' for players he knew could take it, treating others differently, perhaps offering a few quiet words of encouragement"
I would love to be a fly on the wall at Madge's team meetings to see how he handles various players in Our Team.

.

Magpies,

This is a great article about Sir Alex's use of psychology interestingly directed towards referees, other managers and players. His capacity to change gameplans to target the psychological weaknesses of an individual player opposing MU is outstanding.

I never fail to be fascinated by his attention to detail and understanding that some of his stars never received the 'hair dryer' treatment if they didn't perform. He knew they would perform when needed.

A friend in the US advised many of the professional sports make prospective recruits undergo psychological assessment to ensure they are suitable for recruitment. I know one question asked by at least one baseball team to rcruits is 'Do you want to play for us?' If the answer isno then the process ends.

Thanks for your feedback.

https://www.skysports.com/football/news/11667/11980422/fergies-mind-games-dont-let-vieira-ref-the-match

That would have to be a scaled question wouldn’t it ? What about traded players ? Which equates for the vast majority of MLB ball clubs . Eg . Traded as filler , traded for a star , picked up in the rule 5 draft. Also how do you give a 200 million dollar player , who’s got 10 ball clubs chasing him , a survey ? And trust he’s going to be diligent and honest ? I’m genuinely interested , as it seems the only place that survey could even be useful is the amateur draft , and low end free agency .

 

[Spud_Murphy]

NRL 2021: Wests Tigers’ rebuilt pack to break ‘ninth place’ curse

Shawn Blore has read all the stories already writing off his club’s 2021 chances. But the rising Tigers forward says the club’s rebuilt pack can shut the naysayers up.Wests Tigers young gun Shawn Blore shudders at the memory of the pain that comes with tackling former Parramatta behemoth Stefano Utoikamanu.

It’s one of the reasons Blore is relieved Utoikamanu is now a teammate at Concord.

Penrith product Blore played against Utoikamanu all through the junior grades and has experienced the devastation of the prop’s power first hand.

“I grew up playing with Stefano and I hated tackling him,” Blore said.

“Every time I slipped on an opposition jersey against him I hated it because I knew he’d be running at me and he’s that hard to tackle.

“Bro, he’s massive and weighs like 116kg and is already the second-fittest forward in the team. He’s a freak.

“Wait until he finds his feet in the NRL — he is going to be something special.”


Blore believes the acquisition of Utoikamanu, Brisbane’s Joe Ofahengaue and former Penrith skipper and teammate James Tamou will transform the Tigers’ forward pack into one of the NRL’s most formidable in season 2021.

The kind of forward pack that can end the Tigers’ finals exile and end the “ninth place” taunts that Blore, 20, has had enough of reading on social media. The Concord club has finished 9th on the NRL ladder three times since last making a finals appearance in 2011.

“Once he (Utoikamanu) finds his feet in the NRL our forward pack is going to be pretty tough to stop,” Blore said.


“I know a lot of people on socials are saying ‘oh the Tigers and the ninth spot’ and stuff like that but I truly believe that we are on the rise.

“With Stefano and Joffa (Ofahengaue) and the guys we already have, we are going to have a great forward pack once we get some time in together.

“Reading that stuff about being written off is going to be good for us, we can really prove a point in 2021 because we have a lot of talent here.

“That talk motivates me and I hope it motivates the other boys.”


Blore, 20, made a memorable NRL debut back in round 11 against the Eels earlier this year.

Faced with the task of taking on Parramatta enforcer Nathan Brown, Blore refused to be intimidated by the more seasoned campaigner and delivered a rousing display of aggression and tenacity.

With five NRL games now under his belt, all off the bench, Blore has set himself a lofty goal of snaring a starting edge spot.

Luciano Leilua is expected to again start on the left edge and the inside word from Concord is that Blore, a Junior Kangaroo, is on course to snaring the second-row spot on the right spot as he continues to impress during the pre-season.



“In our annual coach’s meeting I spoke to Madge (Maguire) about what I want to do next year and about goals for myself. I want to put good consistent footy together because I know I have a lot more in the tank.

“This pre-season is about getting fit and nailing a starting spot.

“I’ll play wherever Madge wants me but I do love playing in the back row. I grew up playing there.”

Blore is really impressive, love his attitude towards the club. **I just pray the inevitable doesn’t happen where he becomes one of the elite back rowers in the comp and signs elsewhere**

Unless we have some sort of success on the field within the next year or two that is exactly what will happen.

 

[earl]

NRL 2021: Wests Tigers’ rebuilt pack to break ‘ninth place’ curse

Shawn Blore has read all the stories already writing off his club’s 2021 chances. But the rising Tigers forward says the club’s rebuilt pack can shut the naysayers up.Wests Tigers young gun Shawn Blore shudders at the memory of the pain that comes with tackling former Parramatta behemoth Stefano Utoikamanu.

It’s one of the reasons Blore is relieved Utoikamanu is now a teammate at Concord.

Penrith product Blore played against Utoikamanu all through the junior grades and has experienced the devastation of the prop’s power first hand.

“I grew up playing with Stefano and I hated tackling him,” Blore said.

“Every time I slipped on an opposition jersey against him I hated it because I knew he’d be running at me and he’s that hard to tackle.

“Bro, he’s massive and weighs like 116kg and is already the second-fittest forward in the team. He’s a freak.

“Wait until he finds his feet in the NRL — he is going to be something special.”


Blore believes the acquisition of Utoikamanu, Brisbane’s Joe Ofahengaue and former Penrith skipper and teammate James Tamou will transform the Tigers’ forward pack into one of the NRL’s most formidable in season 2021.

The kind of forward pack that can end the Tigers’ finals exile and end the “ninth place” taunts that Blore, 20, has had enough of reading on social media. The Concord club has finished 9th on the NRL ladder three times since last making a finals appearance in 2011.

“Once he (Utoikamanu) finds his feet in the NRL our forward pack is going to be pretty tough to stop,” Blore said.


“I know a lot of people on socials are saying ‘oh the Tigers and the ninth spot’ and stuff like that but I truly believe that we are on the rise.

“With Stefano and Joffa (Ofahengaue) and the guys we already have, we are going to have a great forward pack once we get some time in together.

“Reading that stuff about being written off is going to be good for us, we can really prove a point in 2021 because we have a lot of talent here.

“That talk motivates me and I hope it motivates the other boys.”


Blore, 20, made a memorable NRL debut back in round 11 against the Eels earlier this year.

Faced with the task of taking on Parramatta enforcer Nathan Brown, Blore refused to be intimidated by the more seasoned campaigner and delivered a rousing display of aggression and tenacity.

With five NRL games now under his belt, all off the bench, Blore has set himself a lofty goal of snaring a starting edge spot.

Luciano Leilua is expected to again start on the left edge and the inside word from Concord is that Blore, a Junior Kangaroo, is on course to snaring the second-row spot on the right spot as he continues to impress during the pre-season.



“In our annual coach’s meeting I spoke to Madge (Maguire) about what I want to do next year and about goals for myself. I want to put good consistent footy together because I know I have a lot more in the tank.

“This pre-season is about getting fit and nailing a starting spot.

“I’ll play wherever Madge wants me but I do love playing in the back row. I grew up playing there.”

Blore is really impressive, love his attitude towards the club. **I just pray the inevitable doesn’t happen where he becomes one of the elite back rowers in the comp and signs elsewhere**

Unless we have some sort of success on the field within the next year or two that is exactly what will happen.

It happens anyway. It's not just the teams success that matters. When a player proves himself like Aloiai then other clubs come knocking and their managers go out and try to get top dollar.

It's just money.

 

[sleeve]

People want AJ at fullback with the amount of bombs he has dropped so far

He would have the worst percentage of bombs defused in the NRL from 2020

Give the kid a chance,he;s only young and will improve.

 

[The-moP]

Got this off zerotackle.com this morning .. I noticed Momo's on our losses list .. ?? Here's hoping this is a just a typo error .. ??

2021 LOSSES
Josh Aloiai (Manly Sea Eagles), Oliver Clark (released), Matthew Eisenhuth (Penrith Panthers), Harry Grant (Melbourne Storm), Robert Jennings (Penrith Panthers), Chris Lawrence (Retired), Benji Marshall (released), Sam McIntyre (Gold Coast Titans), Chris McQueen, Paul Momirovski, Josh Reynolds (Hull FC), Dylan Smith (released), Elijah Taylor (released)

 

[Cultured_Bogan]

Question: would people rather Widdop (1y)/Noffa (3y) or Laurie (4y)/Mansour(2y). If I had to choose I would probably take Laurie/Mansour

Hard call. Both scenarios have upside and downside.
On Nofoaluma, I really want him to re-sign as I value loyalty but if I’m honest, as footballers I thing him and mansour are interchangeable

Certainly not sure of why, but Nofo hasn’t seemed to be showing loyalty atm?

But I do think wingers are the easiest position to change, quick blokes are coming through every day.

I’ve heard Nofoaluma is getting itchy feet about wanting to play semi final footy and also thinks his value has gone up. You could call that disloyal but you could also call it fair. I think we are heading towards finals footy but we regressed on field in 2020 and maybe he’s had enough. I hope he stays though.

One hot season and he's out to play semis? He's the only other long term player aside from Brooks that can be associated with the repeated past failures. Bit rich to have good season and then start getting bullish about wanting finals footy. If that's his attitude he can go. Stay and build something here, or do a Tedesco/Moses/Woods and parachute into an already successful outfit. Good luck.

 

[tigerap]

NRL 2021: Wests Tigers’ rebuilt pack to break ‘ninth place’ curse

Shawn Blore has read all the stories already writing off his club’s 2021 chances. But the rising Tigers forward says the club’s rebuilt pack can shut the naysayers up.Wests Tigers young gun Shawn Blore shudders at the memory of the pain that comes with tackling former Parramatta behemoth Stefano Utoikamanu.

It’s one of the reasons Blore is relieved Utoikamanu is now a teammate at Concord.

Penrith product Blore played against Utoikamanu all through the junior grades and has experienced the devastation of the prop’s power first hand.

“I grew up playing with Stefano and I hated tackling him,” Blore said.

“Every time I slipped on an opposition jersey against him I hated it because I knew he’d be running at me and he’s that hard to tackle.

“Bro, he’s massive and weighs like 116kg and is already the second-fittest forward in the team. He’s a freak.

“Wait until he finds his feet in the NRL — he is going to be something special.”


Blore believes the acquisition of Utoikamanu, Brisbane’s Joe Ofahengaue and former Penrith skipper and teammate James Tamou will transform the Tigers’ forward pack into one of the NRL’s most formidable in season 2021.

The kind of forward pack that can end the Tigers’ finals exile and end the “ninth place” taunts that Blore, 20, has had enough of reading on social media. The Concord club has finished 9th on the NRL ladder three times since last making a finals appearance in 2011.

“Once he (Utoikamanu) finds his feet in the NRL our forward pack is going to be pretty tough to stop,” Blore said.


“I know a lot of people on socials are saying ‘oh the Tigers and the ninth spot’ and stuff like that but I truly believe that we are on the rise.

“With Stefano and Joffa (Ofahengaue) and the guys we already have, we are going to have a great forward pack once we get some time in together.

“Reading that stuff about being written off is going to be good for us, we can really prove a point in 2021 because we have a lot of talent here.

“That talk motivates me and I hope it motivates the other boys.”


Blore, 20, made a memorable NRL debut back in round 11 against the Eels earlier this year.

Faced with the task of taking on Parramatta enforcer Nathan Brown, Blore refused to be intimidated by the more seasoned campaigner and delivered a rousing display of aggression and tenacity.

With five NRL games now under his belt, all off the bench, Blore has set himself a lofty goal of snaring a starting edge spot.

Luciano Leilua is expected to again start on the left edge and the inside word from Concord is that Blore, a Junior Kangaroo, is on course to snaring the second-row spot on the right spot as he continues to impress during the pre-season.



“In our annual coach’s meeting I spoke to Madge (Maguire) about what I want to do next year and about goals for myself. I want to put good consistent footy together because I know I have a lot more in the tank.

“This pre-season is about getting fit and nailing a starting spot.

“I’ll play wherever Madge wants me but I do love playing in the back row. I grew up playing there.”

Blore is really impressive, love his attitude towards the club. **I just pray the inevitable doesn’t happen where he becomes one of the elite back rowers in the comp and signs elsewhere**

Unless we have some sort of success on the field within the next year or two that is exactly what will happen.

Players just like clubs want to play finals footy and will play where that is possible

 

[Speed2burn]

Got this off zerotackle.com this morning .. I noticed Momo's on our losses list .. ?? Here's hoping this is a just a typo error .. ??

2021 LOSSES
Josh Aloiai (Manly Sea Eagles), Oliver Clark (released), Matthew Eisenhuth (Penrith Panthers), Harry Grant (Melbourne Storm), Robert Jennings (Penrith Panthers), Chris Lawrence (Retired), Benji Marshall (released), Sam McIntyre (Gold Coast Titans), Chris McQueen, Paul Momirovski, Josh Reynolds (Hull FC), Dylan Smith (released), Elijah Taylor (released)

He has been training with the squad up until the Christmas break, I doubt he’d be still training with us if he was “released”. Has to be a typo

 

[Cultured_Bogan]

Got this off zerotackle.com this morning .. I noticed Momo's on our losses list .. ?? Here's hoping this is a just a typo error .. ??

2021 LOSSES
Josh Aloiai (Manly Sea Eagles), Oliver Clark (released), Matthew Eisenhuth (Penrith Panthers), Harry Grant (Melbourne Storm), Robert Jennings (Penrith Panthers), Chris Lawrence (Retired), Benji Marshall (released), Sam McIntyre (Gold Coast Titans), Chris McQueen, Paul Momirovski, Josh Reynolds (Hull FC), Dylan Smith (released), Elijah Taylor (released)

Momo is here until 2022.

 

[Snake]

Question: would people rather Widdop (1y)/Noffa (3y) or Laurie (4y)/Mansour(2y). If I had to choose I would probably take Laurie/Mansour

Hard call. Both scenarios have upside and downside.
On Nofoaluma, I really want him to re-sign as I value loyalty but if I’m honest, as footballers I thing him and mansour are interchangeable

Certainly not sure of why, but Nofo hasn’t seemed to be showing loyalty atm?

But I do think wingers are the easiest position to change, quick blokes are coming through every day.

I’ve heard Nofoaluma is getting itchy feet about wanting to play semi final footy and also thinks his value has gone up. You could call that disloyal but you could also call it fair. I think we are heading towards finals footy but we regressed on field in 2020 and maybe he’s had enough. I hope he stays though.

One hot season and he's out to play semis? He's the only other long term player aside from Brooks that can be associated with the repeated past failures. Bit rich to have good season and then start getting bullish about wanting finals footy. If that's his attitude he can go. Stay and build something here, or do a Tedesco/Moses/Woods and parachute into an already successful outfit. Good luck.

There is a reason why this club has not played finals in 10 seasons ..Nofoaluma should sign or move on ,obviously has tickets on himself ,wIngers are a dime a dozen Bigger / faster and can tackle ! Brooks
will be lucky to see out the full season in the top grade.

 

[JC99]

Question: would people rather Widdop (1y)/Noffa (3y) or Laurie (4y)/Mansour(2y). If I had to choose I would probably take Laurie/Mansour

Hard call. Both scenarios have upside and downside.
On Nofoaluma, I really want him to re-sign as I value loyalty but if I’m honest, as footballers I thing him and mansour are interchangeable

Certainly not sure of why, but Nofo hasn’t seemed to be showing loyalty atm?

But I do think wingers are the easiest position to change, quick blokes are coming through every day.

I’ve heard Nofoaluma is getting itchy feet about wanting to play semi final footy and also thinks his value has gone up. You could call that disloyal but you could also call it fair. I think we are heading towards finals footy but we regressed on field in 2020 and maybe he’s had enough. I hope he stays though.

One hot season and he's out to play semis? He's the only other long term player aside from Brooks that can be associated with the repeated past failures. Bit rich to have good season and then start getting bullish about wanting finals footy. If that's his attitude he can go. Stay and build something here, or do a Tedesco/Moses/Woods and parachute into an already successful outfit. Good luck.

Exactly, Nofa can’t complain about not making finals when he was one of the guys helping us not make finals

Most years he scored less than 10 tries and his defence was awful. He can’t put himself above the rest of the team and get mad we aren’t making finals.

 

[Speed2burn]

Question: would people rather Widdop (1y)/Noffa (3y) or Laurie (4y)/Mansour(2y). If I had to choose I would probably take Laurie/Mansour

Hard call. Both scenarios have upside and downside.
On Nofoaluma, I really want him to re-sign as I value loyalty but if I’m honest, as footballers I thing him and mansour are interchangeable

Certainly not sure of why, but Nofo hasn’t seemed to be showing loyalty atm?

But I do think wingers are the easiest position to change, quick blokes are coming through every day.

I’ve heard Nofoaluma is getting itchy feet about wanting to play semi final footy and also thinks his value has gone up. You could call that disloyal but you could also call it fair. I think we are heading towards finals footy but we regressed on field in 2020 and maybe he’s had enough. I hope he stays though.

One hot season and he's out to play semis? He's the only other long term player aside from Brooks that can be associated with the repeated past failures. Bit rich to have good season and then start getting bullish about wanting finals footy. If that's his attitude he can go. Stay and build something here, or do a Tedesco/Moses/Woods and parachute into an already successful outfit. Good luck.

There is a reason why this club has not played finals in 10 seasons ..Nofoaluma should sign or move on ,obviously has tickets on himself ,wIngers are a dime a dozen Bigger / faster and can tackle ! Brooks
**will be lucky to see out the full season in the top grade.**

How about instead of bashing our halfback we support him...how many dally m position awards have we got in our current squad? Exactly

In a season where basically only nofa and Luciano had a good year, Brooks seems to be the common go to man for criticism

 

[pawsandclaws1]

Saw a photo of bj Leilua on twitter today, jesus christ the dude has changed so much, highly recommend everyone go have a lookie

Post it please dude?

Fit joey


First time i have ever seen BJ look cut
Let's hope that gives him more confidence to trample over his opposition

I read in an article the exact same thing happened when he joined Canberra. His first year there he was unfit and struggled, came back the next year cut a heap of weight and got fit and was dally m centre. He’s such a damaging ball runner, hopefully fixing his weight and mobility fixes his defence too.

When do you say enough? Wouldn't it be preferable to put our long term option in the centre and stick with him?

I think he’ll be good for us next year and if he’s playing good enough he’s gotta be in the team. Hard to know if Roberts will play and Talau could play wing or centre.

Pretty much regardless of contracts and age whoever’s playing the best should be starting and I think it’ll be Joey combining well with Doueihi on that right edge

Physical fitness and pyschological makeup are the difference between an outstanding player and the weakest link. Why do WTs believe they are different to the Raiders, Newcastle or the Roosters?

Covid is not going away. While overseas arrivals continue, the risk of the infection into the community is real. We may not see our families at Christmas and I would not be surprised if a bubble is not being planned for next season. So what will change?

None of what you said made sense. Literally nothing. Like what dyu even mean here?

"Physical fitness and pyschological makeup are the difference between an outstanding player and the weakest link. Why do WTs believe they are different to the Raiders, Newcastle or the Roosters?"

Lmao

It's pretty clear and one poster has responded. Like what don't you understand?

Paws, I rate you cos you seem very sure of yourself. But read the last few posts. The translations getting lost a bit.
Something I noticed about you, your hell bent on hating players immediately. Nofa, Bj, Luciano.

Also look at the rating on your last few posts, cos they are in the negatives mate, "specially the post in question"

regardless lets banter, I'll always be down.

I can't recall ever writing a negative post about Luciano.

Leilua J has been an extremely poor buy, so against the youth approach we have adopted.

My view on Nofoaluma is clear so I don't need to repeat it.

As for recruitment, I like to read Sir Alex Fergusons approach and note the synergies between him having little money and investing what he did have in youth and the WTs' approach.

https://www.opustalentsolutions.com/blog-news-and-social/sir-alex-fergusons-talent-strategy-how-to-build-a-successful-team

Usually , I am fairly positive towards the Club but this is a forum so views will differ. As for negative reps, who cares.

He was obviously a great man manager re..."Fergie would reserve the 'hairdryer' for players he knew could take it, treating others differently, perhaps offering a few quiet words of encouragement"
I would love to be a fly on the wall at Madge's team meetings to see how he handles various players in Our Team.

.

Magpies,

This is a great article about Sir Alex's use of psychology interestingly directed towards referees, other managers and players. His capacity to change gameplans to target the psychological weaknesses of an individual player opposing MU is outstanding.

I never fail to be fascinated by his attention to detail and understanding that some of his stars never received the 'hair dryer' treatment if they didn't perform. He knew they would perform when needed.

A friend in the US advised many of the professional sports make prospective recruits undergo psychological assessment to ensure they are suitable for recruitment. I know one question asked by at least one baseball team to rcruits is 'Do you want to play for us?' If the answer isno then the process ends.

Thanks for your feedback.

https://www.skysports.com/football/news/11667/11980422/fergies-mind-games-dont-let-vieira-ref-the-match

That would have to be a scaled question wouldn’t it ? What about traded players ? Which equates for the vast majority of MLB ball clubs . Eg . Traded as filler , traded for a star , picked up in the rule 5 draft. Also how do you give a 200 million dollar player , who’s got 10 ball clubs chasing him , a survey ? And trust he’s going to be diligent and honest ? I’m genuinely interested , as it seems the only place that survey could even be useful is the amateur draft , and low end free agency .

I will ask more questions. I was interested when told. When you review the worth of these clubs and profit pa, you can understand an incorrect recruitment decision can have very serious consequencs.

 

[HowDugWT]

Got this off zerotackle.com this morning .. I noticed Momo's on our losses list .. ?? Here's hoping this is a just a typo error .. ??

2021 LOSSES
Josh Aloiai (Manly Sea Eagles), Oliver Clark (released), Matthew Eisenhuth (Penrith Panthers), Harry Grant (Melbourne Storm), Robert Jennings (Penrith Panthers), Chris Lawrence (Retired), Benji Marshall (released), Sam McIntyre (Gold Coast Titans), Chris McQueen, Paul Momirovski, Josh Reynolds (Hull FC), Dylan Smith (released), Elijah Taylor (released)

It also say Chris Mcqueen went to Hull FC sooo . . .

 

[Magpie1969]

So still three spots to fill
I would give Noffo a cut of date to sign or piss off.
Then take Laurie and Sauce off the Riff and have 2 months pre season with us.

Let's now be known as a club that no longer deals with fools.

Some big boys in pre season pictures.