Dwyer's Wisdom

[Scotty]

The players who have, in my opinion, played to a level where they are deserving of their spots are:

1. Robinson
3. Alexander
7. Smith
9. Genia
12. Barnes, Giteau
13. AAC (Adam Ashley-Cooper)
14. Ioane

There are our weaknesses. 5 forwards and 3 backs. Given we can't conjure adequate replacements out of thin air, the next best option is to reorganise what we have into the strongest possible combination.

Moore and TPN are very good hookers but they need to consistently throw straight. In all other respects, they are the equal of Du Plessis.

Horwill is a shadow of the player I hoped he would become. Chisolm and Mumm are good S14 players but not test players. Elsom is a good provincial player who has yet to consistently perform against the Boks and ABs. He has had plenty of chances to do so. Palu can be great but only one game in five.

We don't have a 10. Barnes may develop into one but Giteau isnt one. Hynes, Mitchell and Turner are not test class. Again, they are ok against the weaker nations but don't cut it against the big boys. JOC (James O'Connor) is too young. AAC (Adam Ashley-Cooper) is not a fullback. Shepherd is inconsistent and seems to play his best rugby for the Force on the wing.

I agree with every single thing you've said, cutter. Great post. Elsom certainly doesn't deserve to be considered in a world or 3N XV based on his Wallaby form.

We do know that Moore has the potential, but just off form at the moment. Last year you would have had him in your list. I also agree that Horwill doesn't seem to have reached his potential this year, at first I put it down to coming back from injury, but that excuse can't be used anymore. Hopefully he starts to show some more because by god we need him to.

If Moore, Horwill, Elsom and Palu start to stand up and show what they are capable of week in week out, then that side starts performing a lot better. However it won't be winning against the top opposition until we can find a 10 that can control a game, and a 15 who can both come into the attacking line and kick well for field position. I don't think that 10 is Barnes, because he is just too injury prone, so we have to hope that one of the young guys really come up in the next year. As far as 15 goes I am still holding out hope for Turner to show us something. Failing that I wouldn't be adverse to someone like McLinden getting a chance, and certainly Cam Shepherd again (injuries permitting).