Signings, Suggestions & Rumours Discussion

[twentyforty]

So apparently it’s not what Finucane does on the field it’s his behaviour off it, and the way he warms up? The way he prepares for a game? That’s where his real value is apparently, because he hasn’t played a full season for a while, and he’s had 12 tough years as a bulldogs/Storm forward so his game preparation has to be spot on? His value is in his character apparently, not so much in the way he plays the game?
Gosh, does anyone else see something familiar with this deal?
Let’s not shuffle this fact under the carpet? In about 10 weeks his birthday cake will have 30 candles to blow out.
I understand that it would be great for our youngsters to watch him prepare for games but 4 years?
We need players who can get on the park and get the job done and if they have good manners then that’s a bonus.

Exactley. Thats the reason we bought Tamou ! We need more burnt out forwards ,like a hole in the head.'

Here I was thinking that our players must be pretty dumb if they need to watch a player tie up his boots on game day for 4 years?

 

[TigerWest]

Mulitalo ruled out of Maroons side due to ineligibility.

After the Tony Carrol fiasco, the Inglis fiasco , and of course the greatest con the Grasshoper as a referee fiasco, they have finally been made to follow the rules.

That sux for mulitalo though . For me if he’s represented them at young age , that should the end of it .
What so now he can only represent NZ ? What if he identifies as an Aussie ? He’s already worn the maroon . It’s the same with Luke Keary . He should have always been a maroon , because that’s who he wanted to play for . Because he’s competitive, he will do a job for us in the future , but why make him ?

The issue with Inglis , Folau , etc . Is that they were told NSW were a bunch of racists who will never look after the boys . We can thank Tony Mundine for that nugget of wisdom. So they all jumped ship . Lattrell was taking about it a week ago , that it wasn’t cool for the young boys to wear nsw blue. And he wanted to change that . In the end , we need guys who wear the jersey with pride , and vise versa . If that means a 14 year old kid , as apprised to a 13 year old kid , I don’t see the difference . It’s a bloody technicality. Seems a bit crass to enforce it to me .

Let's be serious, rules are rules, Origin is for NSW and QLD players, and a stepping stone for the Australian jumper.
Not for Kiwis, islanders or others. Kiwis are loyal to NZ not to Australia, I'm surrounded by them, and they will only buy Watties baked beans and always wear black. Ifeel sorry for the kid, but even if he played i doubt he would get another QLD jumper, and that would mean he can't play for NZ in the future. That is not good for the NZ rugby league.
If people don't think qld selectors were not aware of this you are naive.

I don’t know how you can say that with a straight face mate . Most of the nrl are players of some kind of background , whether it be islander , NZ , middle eastern or whatever . The kids formative years were in Queensland , he wore the jerseys at a youth level , and now he’s taking the natural steps to Queensland . It’s not his fault no one picked it up earlier , and like you said he may never get the chance to wear the maroon jersey . We are talking 10 months . Not a gun 17 year old from another country . Which by the way , in sports like soccer and Union , basketball that’s exactly what they do. Half the Socceroos are kids who grew up in other countries , but mum was an Aussie.
It’s not up to you or I to decide whether a kid is to represent his country of birth , or the country he grew up representing , or chooses . If he ruins his chances at NZ , then he will regret that later in life .
The kids absolutely devastated. And how’s that a good thing ? In the interest of fairness? Since when is origin fair ?

The bottom line is Qld did what they have done for years. and that is playing the card off the bottom of the deck. Blame QLD RL nobody else. They tried another con trick and it failed.


should have tried it with a better player

An idea for Qld: how can we claim Tedesco, Fatrell, Trbojevic, JAC, Cleary, Cook as Qlds?:blush:

Well, they did it with Inglis?:grinning:

 

[BAGNF05]

So apparently it’s not what Finucane does on the field it’s his behaviour off it, and the way he warms up? The way he prepares for a game? That’s where his real value is apparently, because he hasn’t played a full season for a while, and he’s had 12 tough years as a bulldogs/Storm forward so his game preparation has to be spot on? His value is in his character apparently, not so much in the way he plays the game?
Gosh, does anyone else see something familiar with this deal?
Let’s not shuffle this fact under the carpet? In about 10 weeks his birthday cake will have 30 candles to blow out.
I understand that it would be great for our youngsters to watch him prepare for games but 4 years?
We need players who can get on the park and get the job done and if they have good manners then that’s a bonus.

Exactley. Thats the reason we bought Tamou ! We need more burnt out forwards ,like a hole in the head.'

Here I was thinking that our players must be pretty dumb if they need to watch a player tie up his boots on game day for 4 years?

There’s plenty of evidence that our players are dumb and don’t prepare adequately

 

[twentyforty]

So apparently it’s not what Finucane does on the field it’s his behaviour off it, and the way he warms up? The way he prepares for a game? That’s where his real value is apparently, because he hasn’t played a full season for a while, and he’s had 12 tough years as a bulldogs/Storm forward so his game preparation has to be spot on? His value is in his character apparently, not so much in the way he plays the game?
Gosh, does anyone else see something familiar with this deal?
Let’s not shuffle this fact under the carpet? In about 10 weeks his birthday cake will have 30 candles to blow out.
I understand that it would be great for our youngsters to watch him prepare for games but 4 years?
We need players who can get on the park and get the job done and if they have good manners then that’s a bonus.

Exactley. Thats the reason we bought Tamou ! We need more burnt out forwards ,like a hole in the head.'

Here I was thinking that our players must be pretty dumb if they need to watch a player tie up his boots on game day for 4 years?

There’s plenty of evidence that our players are dumb and don’t prepare adequately

Statistically, Twal and Jo look better than Finucane, but they’re probably short on his knowledge and experience? Can you put that down to poor prep? Or number of games played?

 

[pawsandclaws1]

What makes anyone think that this bunch of soft, entitled, lazy, arrogant and comfort-zone players are going to follow Finucane's lead?
I rate Tamou.
I don't believe he was brought here to run for 200mtrs and make copious amounts of tackle-breaks, off-loads, score 10 tries and kick goals at 95%.
His leadership is about recovery, professional conduct, never lying down and adopting a winning mentality, the rest is up to guys like Mikaele, Musgrove, Luccie, Uto, Brooksy, Garner, TommyT, Joe O, Jet, Nofo, Mbye and the rest to use their God-given talents to the best of their ability.
Is he still a leader if this bunch of powder-puffs lack the mental and intestinal fortitude to follow?...
I love TPJ's X-factor, which we're missing, but giving Tamou some back-up in the mould of Finucane would be far more conducive to establishing a platform that drives the values of tenacity, pride of performance, striving to succeed, especially in the face of adversity which breed a winning culture, something we've sorely lacked for far too long.

Some of those players you named played very well last Saturday so I think what you have written is a little unfair.

The finger should be pointed at Maguire. He looked like a man without answers during that post match press conference. He's actually had that look for a significant period of time. Perhaps if the club installed a leader as coach, we may achieve better results and performances. I read many comments which describe Maguire as tough. Tough does not necessarily mean you are good, it could mean you use it to hide your lack of tactical nous or comms skills.

He doesn't have the answers but he's a loyal soldier and will be here for the remainder of his contract.

If that is true, it's confirmation WTs should be booted.

C'mon Paws...really ...'Wests Tigers' should be booted.
Are you sure you meant to say that?

Most supporters would be dismayed with the answer I responded to about Maguire.

Yeh ok Paws, but how does this post link to "WT's should be booted"?

Mediocrity. The original poster wrote Maguire doesn't have the answers but he'll see out his contract because he's a loyal soldier.

You may not have an issue with it. I do and I believe others may as well.

Hartigan is doing an outstanding job with recruitment. I wonder though whether the word is out among other players that you will not improve under Maguire?

Good players know that it's the quality of the players around you that make you better not those content to be mediocre and not put the work in. Mediocrity comes from laziness mentally and physically and that lies solely with the the players themselves.

The standard you walk past is the standard you accept - 2016 Australian of the Year.

This from a former military officer resonates.

This is the issue with we know Maguire doesn't have the answers but he is a loyal soldier who will see out his contract.

They’re contracted mate all he can do is drop them. Packer, Bj, Garner, Brooks, Talau, Kepaoa, Stef, Mbye, AD, etc etc

All been dropped at various stages.

What else can he do when it’s dudville?

It's easy to blame the players when you don't have the answers.

Yes, it easy to blame the players, they are ones that have got us in this mess.
I'm not sure how you make a player, play to expectations, without dropping him?

You can’t replace 30 players because he’s unable to coach them effectively. What happens if the next bunch can’t play either, **do we replace them too and keep rolling over the roster forever?** At what stage does he take some responsibility?

If the players were putting in, we wouldn't be in the mess we are now?
In answer to your question though, YES, we do keep replacing them (like every other club) until we get the balance and commitment right?

At what stage does Madge take responsibility for on field performances?

How do you suggest he do that ? I suppose he could acknowledge that the team's performance is his fault as a coach. But what if doesn't believe that is true ?

In any event, what would it achieve ? I don't think it would achieve anything except shift the blame for some pathetic performances away for the players, which is where it belongs.

Or, he could resign and admit that he can do nothing with the team. That would be a disaster for the club. For a premiership winning coach to walk away would say that our club is beyond redemption.

He should resign or get sacked. I’d be happy with either.

And what message does that send to the players?

I don’t particularly care, I just want to win games.

I hope you dont say "I dont particularly care" :astonished: when you have a blue with your Mrs.

Luke Lewis just said on ABC radio "Wests Tigers need players with a winning mentality".

Wests Tigers need supporters with a genuine winning mentality... not a "I dont care mentality".

I hardly think you’re in any position to tell me what sort of supporter I am.

Are you in a qualified position to say definitively Madge is a bad coach, or is it only your personal opinion?

I’m as qualified to say he’s a bad coach as you are to say he’s a good one.

I’m not sure if you’re aware, but this is a forum to provide opinions and discuss things. I disagree with pretty much everything you’ve ever said on here, but I’ve not told you to stop posting have I?

If you’re looking for only positive news just stick to the Wests Tigers website.

Dont talk down to me by saying something childish like " I'm not sure if you are aware".
You have every rite to "disagree with pretty much everything you've [I have] ever said on here".
After all "this is a forum to provide opinions and discuss things".
But after this post it seems like you can't handle anyone who has a different opinion to 'yours', so you get very defensive and stroppy.
Grow UP.

Huh? You are the most defensive, passive aggressive person on here. Anytime anyone mentions anything remotely negative about the coach (or god forbid your beloved Magpies) you get your knickers in a twist.

You have the last word on this then.
I have to much respect for the WTF and the sensible people on here like @cochise to carry on any further with this infantile name calling coming from you.

Hey Magpies, read again what Avo wrote. Then read what you have posted.

 

[BAGNF05]

So apparently it’s not what Finucane does on the field it’s his behaviour off it, and the way he warms up? The way he prepares for a game? That’s where his real value is apparently, because he hasn’t played a full season for a while, and he’s had 12 tough years as a bulldogs/Storm forward so his game preparation has to be spot on? His value is in his character apparently, not so much in the way he plays the game?
Gosh, does anyone else see something familiar with this deal?
Let’s not shuffle this fact under the carpet? In about 10 weeks his birthday cake will have 30 candles to blow out.
I understand that it would be great for our youngsters to watch him prepare for games but 4 years?
We need players who can get on the park and get the job done and if they have good manners then that’s a bonus.

Exactley. Thats the reason we bought Tamou ! We need more burnt out forwards ,like a hole in the head.'

Here I was thinking that our players must be pretty dumb if they need to watch a player tie up his boots on game day for 4 years?

There’s plenty of evidence that our players are dumb and don’t prepare adequately


Statistically, Twal and Jo look better than Finucane, but they’re probably short on his knowledge and experience? Can you put that down to poor prep? Or number of games played?

16-66. What about those stats? We were taken to school by a team that he is the leader of.

 

[fibrodreaming]

The most noticable thing that the top sides have, and we don’t, is SPEED.

For me, the most noticeable thing that the top teams have, that we lack, is team spirit. And I'm not sure we can buy that.

 

[pawsandclaws1]

So apparently it’s not what Finucane does on the field it’s his behaviour off it, and the way he warms up? The way he prepares for a game? That’s where his real value is apparently, because he hasn’t played a full season for a while, and he’s had 12 tough years as a bulldogs/Storm forward so his game preparation has to be spot on? His value is in his character apparently, not so much in the way he plays the game?
Gosh, does anyone else see something familiar with this deal?
Let’s not shuffle this fact under the carpet? In about 10 weeks his birthday cake will have 30 candles to blow out.
I understand that it would be great for our youngsters to watch him prepare for games but 4 years?
We need players who can get on the park and get the job done and if they have good manners then that’s a bonus.

Great post.

 

[the_third]

Finucane at 4 years would end this club. Final nail.

Not another 4 year big money contract….please….didn’t we learned from the Mbye, Packer, Reynolds experiences…far out…2 years with a 3rd club option maximum

I believe what your saying is what we are all thinking however is it really necessary to bargain for a club option of a third year when all your going to do is insult him. You would be better off doing a player option of the third year or no option at all.
We have come unstuck with big term high money contracts in the past couple of years. I most certainly agree with that.
But some of our worst signings cost us in the mid price range and didn’t really impact our cap. It more hampered our game day 17.
When we signed Chris McQueen in 2018 for 3 years at 400k Knights signed Aiden Guerra for 3 years for 550k. During that time Knights also signed big contracts for Pearce and Klemmer attracted to joining a club with a premiership winner and in Pearces case a former team mate.

I know which club made the better recruitment decision.

https://www.google.com/amp/s/www.sportingnews.com/au/amp/league/news/nrl-2020-kalyn-ponga-aidan-guerra-newcastle-knights-nathan-brown-rugby-league/6pvkb444zzya18qz2ntr4vjge

Would you pay 650 for 3 years or 500 for 4?

I like him. Tough, uncompromising and a forward leader. I believe Blore will make the grade with a decent run without injury and while I can’t believe I am saying this, have unearthed a potential gem in Seyfarth. Twal is an honest trundler and Liddle is serviceable with Simpkin. Possibly need another prop as the jury is out with Musgrove and Tamou is coming to the end quickly - can’t believe he is the same player from last year.

Probably the 1st option. Although you could go for the second. Not every Rugby league player is like Packer. Some will do the honourable and retire early if their body is no longer up to it like Trent Merrin did for Saints.

Matulino for us

 

[jadtiger]

So apparently it’s not what Finucane does on the field it’s his behaviour off it, and the way he warms up? The way he prepares for a game? That’s where his real value is apparently, because he hasn’t played a full season for a while, and he’s had 12 tough years as a bulldogs/Storm forward so his game preparation has to be spot on? His value is in his character apparently, not so much in the way he plays the game?
Gosh, does anyone else see something familiar with this deal?
Let’s not shuffle this fact under the carpet? In about 10 weeks his birthday cake will have 30 candles to blow out.
I understand that it would be great for our youngsters to watch him prepare for games but 4 years?
We need players who can get on the park and get the job done and if they have good manners then that’s a bonus.

Well said.A pension plan is a pension plan even if Finucane works for 1-2 of his 4 years

 

[Tiger5150]

What makes anyone think that this bunch of soft, entitled, lazy, arrogant and comfort-zone players are going to follow Finucane's lead?
I rate Tamou.
I don't believe he was brought here to run for 200mtrs and make copious amounts of tackle-breaks, off-loads, score 10 tries and kick goals at 95%.
His leadership is about recovery, professional conduct, never lying down and adopting a winning mentality, the rest is up to guys like Mikaele, Musgrove, Luccie, Uto, Brooksy, Garner, TommyT, Joe O, Jet, Nofo, Mbye and the rest to use their God-given talents to the best of their ability.
Is he still a leader if this bunch of powder-puffs lack the mental and intestinal fortitude to follow?...
I love TPJ's X-factor, which we're missing, but giving Tamou some back-up in the mould of Finucane would be far more conducive to establishing a platform that drives the values of tenacity, pride of performance, striving to succeed, especially in the face of adversity which breed a winning culture, something we've sorely lacked for far too long.

Some of those players you named played very well last Saturday so I think what you have written is a little unfair.

The finger should be pointed at Maguire. He looked like a man without answers during that post match press conference. He's actually had that look for a significant period of time. Perhaps if the club installed a leader as coach, we may achieve better results and performances. I read many comments which describe Maguire as tough. Tough does not necessarily mean you are good, it could mean you use it to hide your lack of tactical nous or comms skills.

He doesn't have the answers but he's a loyal soldier and will be here for the remainder of his contract.

If that is true, it's confirmation WTs should be booted.

C'mon Paws...really ...'Wests Tigers' should be booted.
Are you sure you meant to say that?

Most supporters would be dismayed with the answer I responded to about Maguire.

Yeh ok Paws, but how does this post link to "WT's should be booted"?

Mediocrity. The original poster wrote Maguire doesn't have the answers but he'll see out his contract because he's a loyal soldier.

You may not have an issue with it. I do and I believe others may as well.

Hartigan is doing an outstanding job with recruitment. I wonder though whether the word is out among other players that you will not improve under Maguire?

Good players know that it's the quality of the players around you that make you better not those content to be mediocre and not put the work in. Mediocrity comes from laziness mentally and physically and that lies solely with the the players themselves.

The standard you walk past is the standard you accept - 2016 Australian of the Year.

This from a former military officer resonates.

This is the issue with we know Maguire doesn't have the answers but he is a loyal soldier who will see out his contract.

They’re contracted mate all he can do is drop them. Packer, Bj, Garner, Brooks, Talau, Kepaoa, Stef, Mbye, AD, etc etc

All been dropped at various stages.

What else can he do when it’s dudville?

It's easy to blame the players when you don't have the answers.

Yes, it easy to blame the players, they are ones that have got us in this mess.
I'm not sure how you make a player, play to expectations, without dropping him?

You can’t replace 30 players because he’s unable to coach them effectively. What happens if the next bunch can’t play either, do we replace them too and keep rolling over the roster forever? At what stage does he take some responsibility?

Avo...when you go to a party does the room light up when you walk in?
Seems to me you need a few of those gourmet pies from your local pie shop :joy_cat: .

We dont need to replace 30 players, that's just silly :confounded: .
Our **team** of Hartigan, Madge and Pascoe purchased the best players available at the time without paying overs, and I commend them for that.

Better players that are prepared to believe in Madge and give :100: effort and commitment to Wests Tigers will become available and **we will all live happily ever after ** :slightly_smiling_face: :+1:

I’m not a miserable person at all, but as a fan I am extremely frustrated and am not deluded to the point where I think we’re heading in the right direction.

I don’t know about Madge . I’m kind of with you , and kind of not . I don’t think the team is garbage at all , and I think there’s a lot of the cream of the crop from the last 5 years u18s sitting in our squad .
Guys like talau , kepoa , Blore , seyfarth , Simpkin , Simpkins , Uto , madden , Cini ,even Liddle . They were all Aus schoolboys . And then there’s guys like Brooks , AD, and Twal , who are also clearly talented and ,once again ,elite for thier age group .
Which says to me , we do have the talent .

What we lack , is a way to combine it all under one nucleus and push forward as one unit .
And for that I kind of agree there’s something wrong , with either thier development , or the coaching staff.
I honestly it’s not that Madge is a crap coach , is that he can’t relinquish the steering wheel , due to past whiteanting . So he doesn’t have the best support staff he could get. But rather guys he can trust .
Which inevitably , if he doesn’t take a risk , and delegate authority , to guys who are clearly talented coaches , then he will be just the NZ coach moving forward. Which will be a shame IMO, as the guys clearly gives a stuff , loves the club , and most importantly is a talented coach.

The thing about Australian school boys is they look really good.. against school boys.

Thanks for that pearl of wisdom , but talent is talent . Just because they never develop the physicality , and mentality doesn’t mean you don’t target the elite juniors .
And we have them in the club . They’re here . So this garbage about not having talent is just that . Garbage . We have to figure out how to get that talent to translate .

No doubt they are talented some of these young players, you don’t make a National team at any level without talent. But to go from elite junior to professional NRL player you need a few things - great mentors, the right attitude and a lot of luck. And that might get you a debut. I’ve watched first hand as many super talented juniors failed to crack NRL. I will continue to say it, until our systems are right and we have good senior players we are going to continue to see these young guys fall short of expectations. Craig Fitzgibbon was a dud junior who played on a wing, look what good systems did for him.

That’s my point . I think are agreeing here . The issue is the pathways , and development , not lack of talent . So when people say things like “we don’t have the talent that Melbourne do” . I call bull crap !!! We do so have the talent . We just as a club arnt nurturing them in a system that is not only conducive to them maximising thier talents individually, but from a fans perspective , maximising the Ws for the club .

You reckon that problem is across most clubs? They always talk about lack of talent when expansion comes up but I think it's more lack of development.

Yea I do mate . I think too many jobs for the boys , nepotism , in fighting in junior leagues (Wests are the absolute worst for this) , and most of all , IMO , we should have Balmain and Wests , when identified , playing together from a very young age . The fact Wests hate Balmain , and get “wests” legends in. ,and the same for balmain , is just dinosaur stuff .

The junior teams should all be Wests tigers for starters .
But it will never get agreed to , because Balmain and Wests hate each other , or some garbage like that . As if it’s 1975 .

One sg ball, matts team? Would they need to abandon one junior area?

No I don’t think so . I think that’s where the academy would come in . Identify them early have them train together and grow together . The issue is , which is a minor one really , there are no longer say 60 spots available for rep honours between the 2 districts , but rather 30 now . But that’s no different to every other club anyway .
We could bus in the kids from Balmain , like the roosters and manly do , to C-town ( yes C -town) where the academy should be . There should photos of benji and Robbie , Lawry , Ellis , sheens Galea , skando , Hodgson . Plastered everywhere . And a hallway with door , that only ever opens when you get called up to the show. Or some symbolic gesture , that you have graduated to concord .

No mention at all of Balmain , Wests , other than , maybe some museum like room that commemorates our history .
And it’s taught about , but never ever dwelled upon . It has to be about Wests tigers .

it also starts will wests tigers in Canterbury Cup too

I have zero problem with reserve grade being Wests Magpies.

so it is ok for all the other pathways to be wests tigers bur reserve grade ?
we are a merged club not a Roosters using Norths as a feeder club
having wests Magpies as Canterbury Cup links in with this division some have posted it should all be wests tigers, Tim Sheens pushed for this year's ago I think he will push for it again once he is back

I don't think it makes any difference what our reserve grade is called, would be the same blokes there either way. Plenty of clubs have reserve grade teams that aren't the same club as their first grade team.

the ones that are different are not Merged clubs they are using other clubs ad reserve grade like Newtown and norths, we are using one half of a merger as the reserve grade name its not right
maybe changes on the board might fix this who knows

Why is it not right? What about our junior teams, they're magpies and Balmain should they be changed too? It doesn't make a difference at all and it's really not worth being upset over it's just a name


Agreed and they are being paid for by Wests Ashfield. I was born I Balmain and family tied deep into the Balmain tapestry, but I couldnt give a rats and understand the rationale. I do actually think Wests copped the rough end of the stick identity wise with the merger and if this helps address it I would be happy.

We know they're the Wests tigers reserve grade team and all the players know it too, it's just a name and a jersey.

I think all of these topics about Wests vs Balmain are stupid. Who cares what the reserve grade team is called.

let's call them balmain tigers then ...
We are a merged club yet even after 20 years we still have Wests Magpies and balmain tigers division

It is only you on this site who is worried about it.

Incorrect Cochise - I'm worried about it as well.

You all go on about a one ground club - same thing, how about a one name club.

That would be "Wests Tigers" wouldn't it?

So you'd be happy with no Leichhardt?

Don't turn it around Gal - we are talking about a ONE name club.

How far down do you want to go? Flegg? Matthews? Ball?

 

[Russell]

What makes anyone think that this bunch of soft, entitled, lazy, arrogant and comfort-zone players are going to follow Finucane's lead?
I rate Tamou.
I don't believe he was brought here to run for 200mtrs and make copious amounts of tackle-breaks, off-loads, score 10 tries and kick goals at 95%.
His leadership is about recovery, professional conduct, never lying down and adopting a winning mentality, the rest is up to guys like Mikaele, Musgrove, Luccie, Uto, Brooksy, Garner, TommyT, Joe O, Jet, Nofo, Mbye and the rest to use their God-given talents to the best of their ability.
Is he still a leader if this bunch of powder-puffs lack the mental and intestinal fortitude to follow?...
I love TPJ's X-factor, which we're missing, but giving Tamou some back-up in the mould of Finucane would be far more conducive to establishing a platform that drives the values of tenacity, pride of performance, striving to succeed, especially in the face of adversity which breed a winning culture, something we've sorely lacked for far too long.

Some of those players you named played very well last Saturday so I think what you have written is a little unfair.

The finger should be pointed at Maguire. He looked like a man without answers during that post match press conference. He's actually had that look for a significant period of time. Perhaps if the club installed a leader as coach, we may achieve better results and performances. I read many comments which describe Maguire as tough. Tough does not necessarily mean you are good, it could mean you use it to hide your lack of tactical nous or comms skills.

He doesn't have the answers but he's a loyal soldier and will be here for the remainder of his contract.

If that is true, it's confirmation WTs should be booted.

C'mon Paws...really ...'Wests Tigers' should be booted.
Are you sure you meant to say that?

Most supporters would be dismayed with the answer I responded to about Maguire.

Yeh ok Paws, but how does this post link to "WT's should be booted"?

Mediocrity. The original poster wrote Maguire doesn't have the answers but he'll see out his contract because he's a loyal soldier.

You may not have an issue with it. I do and I believe others may as well.

Hartigan is doing an outstanding job with recruitment. I wonder though whether the word is out among other players that you will not improve under Maguire?

Good players know that it's the quality of the players around you that make you better not those content to be mediocre and not put the work in. Mediocrity comes from laziness mentally and physically and that lies solely with the the players themselves.

The standard you walk past is the standard you accept - 2016 Australian of the Year.

This from a former military officer resonates.

This is the issue with we know Maguire doesn't have the answers but he is a loyal soldier who will see out his contract.

They’re contracted mate all he can do is drop them. Packer, Bj, Garner, Brooks, Talau, Kepaoa, Stef, Mbye, AD, etc etc

All been dropped at various stages.

What else can he do when it’s dudville?

It's easy to blame the players when you don't have the answers.

Yes, it easy to blame the players, they are ones that have got us in this mess.
I'm not sure how you make a player, play to expectations, without dropping him?

You can’t replace 30 players because he’s unable to coach them effectively. What happens if the next bunch can’t play either, do we replace them too and keep rolling over the roster forever? At what stage does he take some responsibility?

Avo...when you go to a party does the room light up when you walk in?
Seems to me you need a few of those gourmet pies from your local pie shop :joy_cat: .

We dont need to replace 30 players, that's just silly :confounded: .
Our **team** of Hartigan, Madge and Pascoe purchased the best players available at the time without paying overs, and I commend them for that.

Better players that are prepared to believe in Madge and give :100: effort and commitment to Wests Tigers will become available and **we will all live happily ever after ** :slightly_smiling_face: :+1:

I’m not a miserable person at all, but as a fan I am extremely frustrated and am not deluded to the point where I think we’re heading in the right direction.

I don’t know about Madge . I’m kind of with you , and kind of not . I don’t think the team is garbage at all , and I think there’s a lot of the cream of the crop from the last 5 years u18s sitting in our squad .
Guys like talau , kepoa , Blore , seyfarth , Simpkin , Simpkins , Uto , madden , Cini ,even Liddle . They were all Aus schoolboys . And then there’s guys like Brooks , AD, and Twal , who are also clearly talented and ,once again ,elite for thier age group .
Which says to me , we do have the talent .

What we lack , is a way to combine it all under one nucleus and push forward as one unit .
And for that I kind of agree there’s something wrong , with either thier development , or the coaching staff.
I honestly it’s not that Madge is a crap coach , is that he can’t relinquish the steering wheel , due to past whiteanting . So he doesn’t have the best support staff he could get. But rather guys he can trust .
Which inevitably , if he doesn’t take a risk , and delegate authority , to guys who are clearly talented coaches , then he will be just the NZ coach moving forward. Which will be a shame IMO, as the guys clearly gives a stuff , loves the club , and most importantly is a talented coach.

The thing about Australian school boys is they look really good.. against school boys.

Thanks for that pearl of wisdom , but talent is talent . Just because they never develop the physicality , and mentality doesn’t mean you don’t target the elite juniors .
And we have them in the club . They’re here . So this garbage about not having talent is just that . Garbage . We have to figure out how to get that talent to translate .

No doubt they are talented some of these young players, you don’t make a National team at any level without talent. But to go from elite junior to professional NRL player you need a few things - great mentors, the right attitude and a lot of luck. And that might get you a debut. I’ve watched first hand as many super talented juniors failed to crack NRL. I will continue to say it, until our systems are right and we have good senior players we are going to continue to see these young guys fall short of expectations. Craig Fitzgibbon was a dud junior who played on a wing, look what good systems did for him.

That’s my point . I think are agreeing here . The issue is the pathways , and development , not lack of talent . So when people say things like “we don’t have the talent that Melbourne do” . I call bull crap !!! We do so have the talent . We just as a club arnt nurturing them in a system that is not only conducive to them maximising thier talents individually, but from a fans perspective , maximising the Ws for the club .

You reckon that problem is across most clubs? They always talk about lack of talent when expansion comes up but I think it's more lack of development.

Yea I do mate . I think too many jobs for the boys , nepotism , in fighting in junior leagues (Wests are the absolute worst for this) , and most of all , IMO , we should have Balmain and Wests , when identified , playing together from a very young age . The fact Wests hate Balmain , and get “wests” legends in. ,and the same for balmain , is just dinosaur stuff .

The junior teams should all be Wests tigers for starters .
But it will never get agreed to , because Balmain and Wests hate each other , or some garbage like that . As if it’s 1975 .

One sg ball, matts team? Would they need to abandon one junior area?

No I don’t think so . I think that’s where the academy would come in . Identify them early have them train together and grow together . The issue is , which is a minor one really , there are no longer say 60 spots available for rep honours between the 2 districts , but rather 30 now . But that’s no different to every other club anyway .
We could bus in the kids from Balmain , like the roosters and manly do , to C-town ( yes C -town) where the academy should be . There should photos of benji and Robbie , Lawry , Ellis , sheens Galea , skando , Hodgson . Plastered everywhere . And a hallway with door , that only ever opens when you get called up to the show. Or some symbolic gesture , that you have graduated to concord .

No mention at all of Balmain , Wests , other than , maybe some museum like room that commemorates our history .
And it’s taught about , but never ever dwelled upon . It has to be about Wests tigers .

it also starts will wests tigers in Canterbury Cup too

I have zero problem with reserve grade being Wests Magpies.

so it is ok for all the other pathways to be wests tigers bur reserve grade ?
we are a merged club not a Roosters using Norths as a feeder club
having wests Magpies as Canterbury Cup links in with this division some have posted it should all be wests tigers, Tim Sheens pushed for this year's ago I think he will push for it again once he is back

I don't think it makes any difference what our reserve grade is called, would be the same blokes there either way. Plenty of clubs have reserve grade teams that aren't the same club as their first grade team.

the ones that are different are not Merged clubs they are using other clubs ad reserve grade like Newtown and norths, we are using one half of a merger as the reserve grade name its not right
maybe changes on the board might fix this who knows

Why is it not right? What about our junior teams, they're magpies and Balmain should they be changed too? It doesn't make a difference at all and it's really not worth being upset over it's just a name


Agreed and they are being paid for by Wests Ashfield. I was born I Balmain and family tied deep into the Balmain tapestry, but I couldnt give a rats and understand the rationale. I do actually think Wests copped the rough end of the stick identity wise with the merger and if this helps address it I would be happy.

We know they're the Wests tigers reserve grade team and all the players know it too, it's just a name and a jersey.

I think all of these topics about Wests vs Balmain are stupid. Who cares what the reserve grade team is called.

let's call them balmain tigers then ...
We are a merged club yet even after 20 years we still have Wests Magpies and balmain tigers division

It is only you on this site who is worried about it.

Incorrect Cochise - I'm worried about it as well.

You all go on about a one ground club - same thing, how about a one name club.

That would be "Wests Tigers" wouldn't it?

So you'd be happy with no Leichhardt?

Don't turn it around Gal - we are talking about a ONE name club.


We are one name in the NRL but 5 home grounds.
I feel your being selectiven when it comes to being one club.

Ok whatever -

Then I hope nobody talks to me about unity and the Wests v Balmain thing again.

As far as I am concerned we are Wests Tigers.

 

[rihannafan1]

No one comes out of this looking good. Journos calling anyone lazy then stating that we should throw the house at Finucane are lazy as they come. Like he'll magically fix all our issues.

The club looks weak, if reports are accurate, we've now decided to go after Finucane. Completely bowing to public sentiment. Weak.

And if any player was keen on us eg. TPJ, but then less so after we suffered a heavy loss, don't bother.

Whoever the leak in our club is needs to shut up. We can't even do rumoured recruited well.

 

[Russell]

So apparently it’s not what Finucane does on the field it’s his behaviour off it, and the way he warms up? The way he prepares for a game? That’s where his real value is apparently, because he hasn’t played a full season for a while, and he’s had 12 tough years as a bulldogs/Storm forward so his game preparation has to be spot on? His value is in his character apparently, not so much in the way he plays the game?
Gosh, does anyone else see something familiar with this deal?
Let’s not shuffle this fact under the carpet? In about 10 weeks his birthday cake will have 30 candles to blow out.
I understand that it would be great for our youngsters to watch him prepare for games but 4 years?
We need players who can get on the park and get the job done and if they have good manners then that’s a bonus.

Just video him over the fence during training for one week - will only cost us one return airfare.

Problem solved.

 

[weststigerman]

So apparently it’s not what Finucane does on the field it’s his behaviour off it, and the way he warms up? The way he prepares for a game? That’s where his real value is apparently, because he hasn’t played a full season for a while, and he’s had 12 tough years as a bulldogs/Storm forward so his game preparation has to be spot on? His value is in his character apparently, not so much in the way he plays the game?
Gosh, does anyone else see something familiar with this deal?
Let’s not shuffle this fact under the carpet? In about 10 weeks his birthday cake will have 30 candles to blow out.
I understand that it would be great for our youngsters to watch him prepare for games but 4 years?
We need players who can get on the park and get the job done and if they have good manners then that’s a bonus.

It's on the field as well. He's been on the field for most games in the last 2 years and had almost Cam Smith style injury run before that.

Another interesting stat I noticed, he's NEVER had a season with less then 52% win ratio. This includes 3 seasons with the Bulldogs. The guy is a winner. Off the field he brings the preparation experience that we lost with Chris Lawrence, Elijah Taylor and dare I say it Benji.

Big question is will he continue to be as durable. No one knows, but IMO he's different person to the likes of Packer, Tamou etc. I don't see this guy coming here to collect a paycheck, unfortunately that's why I don't think we'll get him.

 

[JC99]

People say Finucane would be a classic tigers failed signing but honestly I see TPJ being a much higher risk of failing... inconsistent, lazy defender, goes missing when it gets tough. Sounds like a lot of the boys we have already!

Obviously if he turns it around he could be world class but impossible to know if that'll happen.. one thing for sure is I know Finucane won't let us down. Just give him 3 years at reasonable money and it's fine imo. If we've got the money try sign both of them!

Hass showed the need for a big mobile fast forward in the Origin, TPJ is the closest thing to him in the game.
Yes to TPJ and a no to Finnucane for me, - to many miles on the clock.

Haas and TPJ are not even comparable IMO. Very different players, Haas way more consistent and gets through a heap of work, TPJ has his brilliant moments but gets lazy.

IF we could get TPJ playing his best footy for 80-90 percent of the time he would be brilliant, I'm definitely not against signing him at all, just think he's a risky signing as well. People complained about Joey and Roberts but he's kinda in the same boat.

 

[JC99]

No one comes out of this looking good. Journos calling anyone lazy then stating that we should throw the house at Finucane are lazy as they come. Like he'll magically fix all our issues.

The club looks weak, if reports are accurate, we've now decided to go after Finucane. Completely bowing to public sentiment. Weak.

And if any player was keen on us eg. TPJ, but then less so after we suffered a heavy loss, don't bother.

Whoever the leak in our club is needs to shut up. We can't even do rumoured recruited well.

If they want to sign him it won't be because some journos said so, and the 'Leak' is our chairman who can't keep his mouth shut 😂

 

[JC99]

So apparently it’s not what Finucane does on the field it’s his behaviour off it, and the way he warms up? The way he prepares for a game? That’s where his real value is apparently, because he hasn’t played a full season for a while, and he’s had 12 tough years as a bulldogs/Storm forward so his game preparation has to be spot on? His value is in his character apparently, not so much in the way he plays the game?
Gosh, does anyone else see something familiar with this deal?
Let’s not shuffle this fact under the carpet? In about 10 weeks his birthday cake will have 30 candles to blow out.
I understand that it would be great for our youngsters to watch him prepare for games but 4 years?
We need players who can get on the park and get the job done and if they have good manners then that’s a bonus.

It's on the field as well. He's been on the field for most games in the last 2 years and had almost Cam Smith style injury run before that.

Another interesting stat I noticed, he's NEVER had a season with less then 52% win ratio. This includes 3 seasons with the Bulldogs. The guy is a winner. Off the field he brings the preparation experience that we lost with Chris Lawrence, Elijah Taylor and dare I say it Benji.

Big question is will he continue to be as durable. No one knows, but IMO he's different person to the likes of Packer, Tamou etc. I don't see this guy coming here to collect a paycheck, unfortunately that's why I don't think we'll get him.

People are scarred by previous signings. Even Tamou the only issue is that he can't play big minutes, when he's on the field he does fine. Finucane would get through a lot more work on the field

 

[avocadoontoast]

So apparently it’s not what Finucane does on the field it’s his behaviour off it, and the way he warms up? The way he prepares for a game? That’s where his real value is apparently, because he hasn’t played a full season for a while, and he’s had 12 tough years as a bulldogs/Storm forward so his game preparation has to be spot on? His value is in his character apparently, not so much in the way he plays the game?
Gosh, does anyone else see something familiar with this deal?
Let’s not shuffle this fact under the carpet? In about 10 weeks his birthday cake will have 30 candles to blow out.
I understand that it would be great for our youngsters to watch him prepare for games but 4 years?
We need players who can get on the park and get the job done and if they have good manners then that’s a bonus.

It's on the field as well. He's been on the field for most games in the last 2 years and had almost Cam Smith style injury run before that.

Another interesting stat I noticed, he's NEVER had a season with less then 52% win ratio. This includes 3 seasons with the Bulldogs. The guy is a winner. Off the field he brings the preparation experience that we lost with Chris Lawrence, Elijah Taylor and dare I say it Benji.

Big question is will he continue to be as durable. No one knows, but IMO he's different person to the likes of Packer, Tamou etc. I don't see this guy coming here to collect a paycheck, unfortunately that's why I don't think we'll get him.

People are scarred by previous signings. Even Tamou the only issue is that he can't play big minutes, when he's on the field he does fine. Finucane would get through a lot more work on the field

I think Tamou has been pretty disappointing on field. I'm not talking about his leadership or the other intangibles he brings, which i'm sure are very valuable, but as a player I think he's quite a bit off the pace. 82m from a starting front rower isn't good enough imo. He's also been pretty suspect in defence.

 

[weststigerman]

So apparently it’s not what Finucane does on the field it’s his behaviour off it, and the way he warms up? The way he prepares for a game? That’s where his real value is apparently, because he hasn’t played a full season for a while, and he’s had 12 tough years as a bulldogs/Storm forward so his game preparation has to be spot on? His value is in his character apparently, not so much in the way he plays the game?
Gosh, does anyone else see something familiar with this deal?
Let’s not shuffle this fact under the carpet? In about 10 weeks his birthday cake will have 30 candles to blow out.
I understand that it would be great for our youngsters to watch him prepare for games but 4 years?
We need players who can get on the park and get the job done and if they have good manners then that’s a bonus.

It's on the field as well. He's been on the field for most games in the last 2 years and had almost Cam Smith style injury run before that.

Another interesting stat I noticed, he's NEVER had a season with less then 52% win ratio. This includes 3 seasons with the Bulldogs. The guy is a winner. Off the field he brings the preparation experience that we lost with Chris Lawrence, Elijah Taylor and dare I say it Benji.

Big question is will he continue to be as durable. No one knows, but IMO he's different person to the likes of Packer, Tamou etc. I don't see this guy coming here to collect a paycheck, unfortunately that's why I don't think we'll get him.

People are scarred by previous signings. Even Tamou the only issue is that he can't play big minutes, when he's on the field he does fine. Finucane would get through a lot more work on the field

Agree. Tamou has been okay, but he seemed to manage a lot more minutes at Penrith. Granted there is less tackling to do, but I hoped he'd last at least 50-55 mins a game with us.

There is a clear example of what he does on the field when just last week he ran straight around our current 13 to score and he's considered a defensive player.