-
I think Curry was great at the weekend hence his bench inclusion for flanker/8 cover.I hear you completely mind though Watson seems to have such explosive power that belies his 'modest' size. It'd be interesting to see 'metres made after contact' stats etc to get a better comparison. My worry with BV (and he's really pulled his finger out the last 2 games) is that if his, admittedly often highly effective, one dimension of carrying hard, dominating physically and tying in defenders is nullified he doesn't add a huge amount beyond that. Standers stats for metres/carries etc etc are MILES ahead of every back row player in the 6N (couldn't believe it) and whilst I appreciate that stats are born out of game-plan etc they can't be ignored. Tipuric is just so bloody good at everything and links forwards/backs so well (and is a proven test match Lion) he's hard to leave out but if your suggestions (Faletau etc) transpired I would be neither surprised nor disappointed. Yes, said it last week; Farrell's defence the last two games has been superb. Young's showed me that he actually can move the ball directly and quickly from the breakdown and he looked so much better doing that and it meant that his occasional steps and snipes caught the defence off guard and were more effective.
@c00ps, yes, Henshaw, North....oh and Faz at 10.....Gatland's wet dream!
You are reading a single comment by @Pasty_Spumante and its replies.
Click here to read the full conversation.
Pasty_Spumante
c00ps
I may be being one-eyed here, but I think your pack is missing a few English players - if you're going solely on form this week then I'd argue Curry and Billy should start, and for a pack to take on the Boks up front I'm just not sure Watson and Tips are big/abrasive enough, much as I love them both as players. Probably on the plane. Falatau in with a shout too for 6 and 8.
No arguments with the backline albeit I don't think for a moment Gatland will be starting Russell. I would. But I definitely expect Farrell to be starting, either 10 or 12. Not sure how/if the Russell - Farrell axis works but it would certainly be interesting. Farrell's defensive performance at 12 was massive this week, led the line and smashed everything in his path - with legal tackle technique! Wonders never cease.