OK so here we go... back into trials and end of the tours for holidays.... wha's happening out there in terms of trials and how are the teams shaping up for the season.
Also bee keen to start trying to knock together an ISA First XV and SecondXV from early season form....
Having watched a couple of trials and heard other reports it would appear the dominant players in their positions over the past 2 seasons of opens and 16's are back and in form. I'll nominate the following players based on previous playing form, ISA selection and other rep duties;
1.O'Connor (Augustines)
2.Holden (Oakhill)
3.Talanoa (Andrews)
4.Linaker (Oakhill)
5.Phillip (Augustines)
6.Lloyd (Augustines)
7.Tuckwell (Oakhill)
8.Goddard (Oakhill)
9.Natoli (Augustines)
10.
11.
12.Woodward (Oakhill)
13.Canning (Oakhill)
14.
15.
I think Lloyd is doing pathways and is available. Others to consider would be Markus (Pats), Kinross 5/8, Staples(Pius), Cotton (Oakhill). Players like Wolfgram, Vescio and Hopoate also in contention if rumours of suspension are false.
Yes, I know the selections are Augustines and Oakhill heavy but these teams/players have been the dominant ones throughout this age bracket and consistently deliver against ISA, CAS and GPS opposition. Two years ago ISA selected a similar team with only 3 players outside of Oakhill and Augustines who demoralised CHS and were beaten by a last play try against CAS. It also meant a healthy representation within the NSW teams (12?) and further selections into the Australian side (3 or 4). Last year they chose an all sorts team and were flogged by CHS and weren't much better against CAS. Nett result was only 3 NSW selections and Domkins selected but unable to play for Australia.
The score in these games is not of importance. It's about giving the best players from the association the best chance to represent all the ISA players at the highest levels by selecting the best in the position and best combinations. You can have a great backline but if a dud halfback gives you crap ball all day you won't be able to show your ability. Most of these guys played together already with the Sydney side last year and would be a good chance of bringing ISA representation back to where it belongs.