Do we need a utility on the bench?

[1978]

I'm not sure Manly needs a utility. That's not a criticism of Brown, but an observation that we have more to gain from four big forwards.

With Sironen, we have cover for halves if one is injured mid-game. Winterstein gives us emergency cover in the centres, at a pinch.

If Api is injured or needs a rest, Sironen or Green could cover. Apil should be an 80-minute hooker given his size.

I can't see the point having Brown occupy a bench spot and only play 10 mins each game. Maybe Head injury assessments mean a utility who can cover for backs is needed?

Other teams go with an 80-minute hooker and four forwards on the bench. Jackson from Bulldogs, for example, often covers for backs if injury strikes. Eels play four forwards.

Alternatively, why not put Sironen on the bench if a utility is needed and start Lane. (Lane and Winterstein would be monster second-row pairing and quick).

Imagine a bench of Tapau, AFB, Perritt, Sironen.

 

[Brooke]

I think having Jackson Hastings on the bench last night worked really well. He could cover for Tommy whilst he was off.
The way Jackson can cover so many positions is a real asset.

 

[Kevinward777]

I think having Jackson Hastings on the bench last night worked really well. He could cover for Tommy whilst he was off.
The way Jackson can cover so many positions is a real asset.

Jackson covers more positions than Brown and does so at a higher standard imo. i doubt we would have scored that final try last night if the play started with Brown at dummy half instead of Hastings. Having said that, Brown was ok last night.

 

[chuckee]

I believe we do need a utility on the bench and Jackson Hastings is that man to fulfil that spot. The guy deserves to be in the 17, he has talent to burn. He can cover pretty much any part of the 1, 6, & 9.
With potential concussion tests or injuries he slots straight in and gives us a top class option.
Take Cronulla for example last year and see how well used Beale was when he had to come from the bench.

 

[castle eagle]

ask nathan brown for his opinion😉

 

[mave]

Agreed.
We need a utility, and it must be Hastings.
Brown to Blacktown.

 

[manlyfan76]

Yes.
Hastings.

 

[Holmsey]

Most teams have utilities, Hastings is our one.

 

[Chip and Chase]

I'm more concerned that you want to bench taupau and start with myles

 

[Waz13]

Im ok with 1 utility but can see the argument for none given the emphasis placed on go forward. TBH I blew up at the TV when I saw both brown and Hastings named on the bench, especially in light of what happened against souths. despite the win I still think that wasn't the right call. Hastings and 3 big boopers on the bench for me..

 

[Fluffy]

It really depends on what type of hooker you want?

an 80 Matt Ballin tackle all day never run style or a 2008 55 minute Matt Ballin/Lestrange style where Matt runs a bit and Lestrange comes on to try and exploit tired defence?

Of course you need to have the right people and Api looks far more dangerous with a spell and his passing really gets bad in the last 15 of each half when he tires so 2 hookers for sure right now.