Frank firstly the squad we are putting together is starting to look good, now that's to bed lets talk rugby. As you should be aware for the last god knows how many years our so called experienced managers have flooded the team with second rowers and even played them as centre. It was utter bollox as the theory was we would be fitter and more agile than other teams, did it work ? a prop is a prop no matter how the game has changed, yes there will be times when people have to play out of position due to injuries or suspension that's life.
If we don't sign another two specialist props then all the good signings are a waste of time. It does look like the Finney's are going to play Baker and Grady at prop not good vision imo but they are heavy enough eh so thing will be fine.
In my opinion baker has proved his worth at prop, on the other hand I wouldn’t be happy with Grady being classed as a prop
Baker can do and has done a job at prop.
Problem is when you see some of the units coming off the bench for the likes of Batley and we are playing Grady and Baker against them or even one of them and the inexperienced Tilleke.
But I would agree that signing so many back row type players suggests Baker at prop.
In my opinion baker has proved his worth at prop, on the other hand I wouldn’t be happy with Grady being classed as a prop
Given loose forward as a position is effectively a third prop anyway, I don't really see the issue of Baker at prop.
Baker can do and has done a job at prop. Problem is when you see some of the units coming off the bench for the likes of Batley and we are playing Grady and Baker against them or even one of them and the inexperienced Tilleke. But I would agree that signing so many back row type players suggests Baker at prop.
Exactly this, people talk about having a mobile team smaller, faster forwards, which is great in theory, until you ask those guys to try and stop the massive units coming at them for many teams in this league, which just takes all their energy away and eventually leads to holes being punched and a beaten pack. If we could sign at least one, pref two, "proper" big props on top of what we have now to stand up and match those big packs without having to kill themselves to do it, I'd be very happy going into next season.
In my opinion baker has proved his worth at prop, on the other hand I wouldn’t be happy with Grady being classed as a prop
Given loose forward as a position is effectively a third prop anyway, I don’t really see the issue of Baker at prop.
I don’t either. We only change the dynamic when Smith plays there. When Baker is named at 13 he’s another middle / prop
Wigan prop Mitch Clarke has been released a year early from his contract. Reported he's heading to the Championship with a number of clubs after his signature. Newcastle are reportedly favourites with them going full time. Would be a good option at prop for us but suppose it would be difficult to sign him if Newcastle and possibly Leigh are offering full time deals.
At 28 yrs old he might want a FT berth rather than PT as you say.
Depends on his domestic situation and plans I guess. Newcastle is a long way from Wigan if that's where he lives! Looks about right for us age-wise, maybe offer a two year contract and see how he gets on with Simon.
Reading about his frustration at Wigan the Wigan connection with Betts and O'Carroll might not appeal!!!