Second row concerns me. In reality we have 2 specialist secondrows in the squad. I’d class Walters as a utility forward. I’m guessing we are keeping our powder dry to see who becomes available in the NRL. Most likely early doors would be Josh Schuster who would be a massive risk but a total fresh start could be the catalyst he needs to get his love back of the game.

[quote="jonh":20qajrth]I was thinking more of a mid season recruit to make sure we are ok for this year initially.[/quote:20qajrth] I don't think we'll be signing anyone Jon. There are 3 genuine first teamers currently looking to fill the 2nd row berths and a couple very promising youngsters who will need game time. Since Isa's retirement, it's probably our thinnest position for squad depth but not so much that I think they'll feel the need to add a body purely for cover. There's also the option of running Eckersley there in training as additional cover, as well as a couple of mobile props who could drop into the back row at a push. I think both Byrne and Dupree have had spells there.

[quote="Phuzzy":2kc1yj6p]I don't think we'll be signing anyone Jon. There are 3 genuine first teamers currently looking to fill the 2nd row berths and a couple very promising youngsters who will need game time. Since Isa's retirement, it's probably our thinnest position for squad depth but not so much that I think they'll feel the need to add a body purely for cover. There's also the option of running Eckersley there in training as additional cover, as well as a couple of mobile props who could drop into the back row at a push. I think both Byrne and Dupree have had spells there.[/quote:2kc1yj6p] Thompson can play 2nd row if called upon. We also have some good young lads who can fill in.

At least one new face in 2026 is a must imo. New faces, especially the right ones, keep everything fresh & continue to move the needle. Who that person is or, more importantly, who they'd replace however isn't a straightforward decision.

Surely it would be Hirst to come in at second row next? I think he is back at Oldham on loan but not sure if he's training with us as well? He is almost 24, a good 3 years older than Nsemba so should be ready for first team.

[quote="Wigg'n":34c4dtlf]Surely it would be Hirst to come in at second row next? I think he is back at Oldham on loan but not sure if he's training with us as well? He is almost 24, a good 3 years older than Nsemba so should be ready for first team.[/quote:34c4dtlf] He’s only been in the pro game for 12/18 months and full time environment for 3 months. It wasn’t too long ago he was plsying for Armondbury Spartans in the Yorkshire Men’s league. I’d be surprised to see him this year.