In relation to the topic itself;
The performance of our props will determine if we are a top 4 or just a top 8 team. I have high hopes for Starling and Jake. Despite his age, I think Jake will be ready if the coaches are willing (or forced) to throw him in. His effort, character, stats & rep selection mark him as a great player but he also passes the 'eyeball test'. When he came on in that game last year and took his first hit up he didn’t just tuck the ball under his arm to try and make sure he didn’t drop it. He successfully offloaded in the first tackle!
Despite his age and limitations that have been discussed on here over the years, I think we really need Kingy to avoid further injury and be the hard headed forward leader this year. His ruck defence, while not as good as Kitey’s, is a strength. Combined with his leadership and some controlled mongrel he still has something to offer this team over the next two years, especially the younger props.
The performance of our props will determine if we are a top 4 or just a top 8 team. I have high hopes for Starling and Jake. Despite his age, I think Jake will be ready if the coaches are willing (or forced) to throw him in. His effort, character, stats & rep selection mark him as a great player but he also passes the 'eyeball test'. When he came on in that game last year and took his first hit up he didn’t just tuck the ball under his arm to try and make sure he didn’t drop it. He successfully offloaded in the first tackle!
Despite his age and limitations that have been discussed on here over the years, I think we really need Kingy to avoid further injury and be the hard headed forward leader this year. His ruck defence, while not as good as Kitey’s, is a strength. Combined with his leadership and some controlled mongrel he still has something to offer this team over the next two years, especially the younger props.