Billy Smith over Suaalli

[Lydon]

I must say I was pleasantly surprised by Billy Smith, his defence in particular was a standout for a guy with limited experience..

He looks a good one

[Yak]

I must say I was pleasantly surprised by Billy Smith, his defence in particular was a standout for a guy with limited experience..

He looks a good one

Didn’t get tested too much on the line but looked to have a good combination with Hutch when they shifted it around halfway a couple of times.

Interesting that Morris was moved to the right to accomodate. I was interested in seeing if Billy can do the big skip and fend into Gidley flick on the right side as well. As it turns out he never receives any good ball in an attacking zone to do it on the left anyway. The shift did seem to help Walker’s defence though. He seemed more confident committing to low tackles early knowing that Morris was in position to wrap the ball each time. He even said after the game that the talk from JMoz was great for him. Unfortunately when Teddy comes back I can’t see Manu playing anywhere but right centre so that defensive combo will be short-lived.

Back on Smith, if he can stay on the field I think he’ll be really strong at left centre for us next year both sides of the ball (assuming Morris calls it a day). Just looking at him next to Manu in the sheds they almost look the same size, aside from more size to Joey’s legs. With that I can see Suaalii on the right wing next to Joey. He might not seem like a winger right now but he’s 17 and needs to earn his stripes the same way Manu did. Not a small three quarter line with Toops, Smith, Manu and Suaalii.

[zac]

is jmoz guaranteed selection every week? no doubt he's in our best 13 despite a few errors but it would be nice to give both suaalii and smith some game time

[Mickie Lane]

Would it be possible to do it remotely? Not sure if roosters can just leave him behind, don’t have many outside back reserves options other than ikuvalu/smith (whoever doesn’t get the wing spot). Abbey unlikely to travel unless upgraded as he is only on match payments, I assume he works part time. Keighran only other option?

Not exactly easy to just call up extra players at the moment too because of the bubble - if there are more injures so I think we need all on deck

Education in the long run is more important than footy & the Roosters. They could get by without him.

[Mickie Lane]

I must say I was pleasantly surprised by Billy Smith, his defence in particular was a standout for a guy with limited experience..

He looks a good one

He's a big bloke with aggression & if he can stay fit he will be a good one but he has to play in the centres.

[Kelby]

So going forward?

1. Manu
2. Toops
3. JMoz
4. Smith
5. Suaalii
6. Teddy
7. Walker


14. Hutchinson