For years now I've lamented the lack of backline creativity from a scrum win. Can anyone tell me why you play a forward in the backline in a scrum situation?
Scums give you a greater chance to attack because there are a wad of players engaged (or should be bound) in the scum pack.
Wouldn't it be worth a chance to kick over the defence, where the opposing fullback is either in the scum or in the line, and allow your fast centre and winger to gain a flying start?
I would have thought that Barrett, as a former terrific 5/8, would be chock full of attacking ideas. No, he (and almost all other coaches) are more concerned with not losing and playing it safe than taking calculated risks.
Our backline has let us down in most matches this season. So, if we are going to "sack Barrett" as many want, then his replacement must be the Walker Brothers who would turn this game on its head. Not only would we win more games with an attacking mindset we would be more entertaining to watch than the current five 'die-with-the-ball hitups' and then a kick-and-hope game plan.