@SouthernMann said in Otago 2023:
The forward pack is great.
The backline I genuinely think have a fair bit of talent. But, for a fair bit of the season we have borderline run a colts backline. They need to have some time in the gym, get bigger, become smarter rugby players. THis is a very young team, especially in the backs.
For sure, but I'd also say Donnelly picked this team, and whatever caveats we might say, he hasn't got the best out of it. Playing a 12,13,14 of TUJ, Te Hiwi and Whaanga is incredibly slow. All individually good players, but they don't balance each other at all. Outside of Nareki, and Gilbert on occasion, we have not seen any real spark. I've seen far worse players carve things open for Otago, thinking of a Jayden Spence, a Marshall Suckling, a Faasiu Fuatai. Hardly worldbeaters, but had a bit of acceleration. We certainly looked better with Leslie at 12, but don't think we have got the gameplan right to get the best out of these young guys.