More good things than bad in this side. On the plus side its good to see the exclusion of Austin and Hastings which most sane England fans knew were about as English as Merv Hughes. I'm also glad to see SOL binned off. Not even the best loose forward in Wigan. Generally he has picked on form and most of the inclusions are hard to disagree with.
I'm ambivalent on Farrell; I don't think he has nor ever will be international class but if picked has to be paired with a big backrow. The one surprise is Sarginson who I think is garbage to be honest.
Tom Johnstone left wing a shoein if fit.
Harry Newman is a very good right sided centre but it may be too soon for him. He's playing well for Leeds at the moment.
Fair shout though. Better if they are playing on their 'natural' side. Wonder if Ratchford would be considered in there?
As for Gildart & Percival, what do people think is the best option?
Regarding Johnson, he's a good un but surely your best ball carriers and kick returners are Makinson and Manfredi?
If Manfredi is fit, he's got to be in with a shout surely?
But then Charnley is also a strong lad who runs hard
Looks pretty good to me, in a 'squad' of 33 you'll always have the odd strange one you don't agree with..
Looking at it however and including some early season form
Tomkins, Makinson, Gildart, Percival, Johnstone, Lomax, Gale, Graham, Clark, Thompson, Whitehead, Bateman, Hughes is probably how I'd look to go.. obviously very early doors..
Interesting if true about Knowles, we're very strong in the front row, two very good back rowers in Bateman and Whitehead, then you're probably struggling for an out and out loose forward.
That backline would certainly be a lot more entertaining than the garbage Bennett churned out
Would have had Hastings in there, regardless of his birthplace.
St Helens Rugby League Football Club