Potential Lions, 1 year out. FB + wings + OC + IC

First topic message reminder :

I Usually I hate this kind of thing, but I thought it would be fun to do with some holistic exploration... I'll be adding in other positions over time

I know it's a year out, but I thought I'd do, not a Lions squad, but a review of the likely potential players who could tour for the Lions, what they can add, how they are doing and whether they are currently likely to make it and what they might have to do to get a chance, to help look at the variables and the overall make up of a possible squad with players covering each other's weaknesses and aiding their strengths.

Starting with the Fullback shirt.

From England:
The incumbent, Mike Brown.

His form is currently relatively poor, though his tackle breaking and man-committing runs are unique amongst the contenders. Big but inaccurate left boot. Usually very strong in the tackle and in form a great positional defender, but seems off the pace recently and not been as sharp in his positioning. A rock under the high ball, he adds very well done basics at FB and someone to get go-forward in attack but still can be selfish or shortsighted with his pass and his form is not enough right now to merit selection
Chances: currently slim and holding onto the England shirt on credit and the previous weaknesses of his rivals, but if he has a good club season and keeps the England shirt he adds a different option at 15.
Good for: adding carrying and solidity to a smaller, agility based backline.


Alex Goode:

The European player of the year, in great club form but has flattered to deceive when it comes to Internationals. Goode has improved his game at the back and in the air but it is still variable. He does however, more than any other British or Irish option, offer a playmaker role coming into the line whilst being a specialist Full Back. Falls off tackles, but can trick defenders with his step and a very good kicker, extra points kicker and slick distributor and playmaker of the ball

Chances: slim without the national shirt, but if he plays well next season his form this season would still keep him considered.
Good for: adding more playmaking to a power-based backline


Anthony Watson:

Currently a winger, and a prolific one, for England but a FB at Bath. He has pace to burn, and is more outright a threat in attack than England's other options. But he can be exposed positionally at wing, so the untested position of FB at Int level is a risk. His kicking game is not his strength, and he can be prone to selfishness with the ball like Brown. However, a behemoth claiming attacking ball in the air and a great finisher. The question is, are his skills wasted at FB?

Chances: currently he will go and press for a starting place in NZ but where? I'm not sure we have 2 wingers better than him.
Good for: scoring tries at international level


Delon Armitage:

IMO a douche, but still a good and rounded rugby player. Is possibly the best kicker of the English choices, a powerful carrier but more agile than Brown and though he doesn't have the obvious strengths of the other players, he has few weaknesses. The LIons don't follow the RFU selection rules. However, it is hard to see him as a team player, generally acknowledged as an important factor in Lions tours due to the need to bond and get on the same wavelength quickly.

Chances: Poor, mostly due to non-rugby reasons, fitting in with the team seems to be of huge importance to most Lions' coaches.
Good for: utility cover, long range kicking (but better options there- see Hogg and Halfpenny).

Others:
Elliott Daly: being used as a centre at the moment but can play FB and may do this weekend off the bench, and has done well there for the Barbarians. Pace, a huge boot, but with him playing in another position right now he would need exposure at 15 next season to be considered. Could be a utility back bolter.
Chris Pennell: all around good player, but you feel has slipped off the radar too much to feature even for England.
Matt Tait: Very good in the air and still cuts nice lines despite losing his pace, but again out of the frame really.
Mike Haley:had a good AP, and looked very good for the Saxons, offering a great option coming into the line. But not yet very established, would be a huge shock.
Jack Nowell: can play here but mostly a winger, so seems less likely than Watson that he'd move to here
Danny Cipriani: can also play at FB but will be a FH mostly at Wasps and would be a bold move to bring him back from the international wilderness in a definitely secondary position for him.

Ireland:

Incumbent: Jared Payne:

Payne has largely played 13 for Ireland but has been very strong for a while at 15 for Ulster and before that in NZ. Payne is excellent under the high ball and a very good defender. He would be controversial as another kiwi playing AGAINST the All Blacks for the LIons. He has a very suitable skill set that fits in a lot of approaches and covers 13, but recently has lacked a bit of flair and is relatively untested at FB for Ireland.

Chances: very good of touring, I think, with his 13 cover, but don't think he'll start.
Good for: Utility, safe at the back

Rob Kearney:

a Lions veteran but sadly injury prone and out of form these days. Once the undisputed king of the air and a runner of cutting lines but has lacked zip for years. However, at his best he has the talent to be the best FB in the NH, the sight of him chasing his own Garry Owen a fearful one for opponents.

Chances: poor on form, but ex-Lions always stand a good chance, so a decent run in right at the end may be enough.
Good for: experience on these kind of tours.

Tiernan O'Halloran:

a reliable performer in a surprising and excellent and attack minded Connacht backline. Complete novice at International level and hard to see him being picked without any experience, but Lions do take bolters and he has the talent to be one.

Chances: slim, but a second good season with Connacht and a few caps would give him a chance.
Good for: raw counterattacking and aerial strength.

Simon Zebo:

often plays wing but being used more and more at FB by Schmidt. Has a mazy running game and pace that can punish any side in space or coming into the line, and a solid kicker, but IMO variable in the air and in defence. Also has Lions credentials, but may be seen as more of a wing option

Chances: reasonable, with 50-50 chance as to whether he plays wing or FB.
Good for: splicing apart defences

Ian Madigan: Madigan is a FH but covers 12 and 15 and does add a controlled option with a good playmaking eye at FB, but if he comes (which is certainly possible) it'll be as bench option covering several positions
Andrew Conway: on the fringe of the Ireland squad, but not quite breaking through, and more often a winger. Needs Munster to have a great season to stand a chance at all
Robbie Henshaw: used to play FB, very well, but so well established at centre, he has a great chance of touring but won't play FB baring an emergency
Craig Gilroy: Can play 15 but like many here, more suited to winger and needs to become Ireland’s first choice there.

Scotland:

The Incumbent: Stuart Hogg:

Hogg went on the last tour, bizarrely played at 10 (an inexplicable waste of a slot and of Hogg). Hogg is fiery (more so than Brown) and can be caught out by this, but is lethally fast, a natural counterattacker and has a huge boot he uses very well. I don't think he's a good defender, but he seems to have some leadership qualities and is a boon to any team in attack. And can kick goals if needed.

Chances: very high unless he gets injured or completely drops off.
Good for: running the ball back, long long kicks

Sean Maitland:

another kiwi born player, 4 years ago Maitland was a slick attacker who couldn't defend at international level. Now he has lost his attacking mojo and improved his defence and catching. However, he seems like a player that could get his form back at Sarries, who will surely give him a lot of chance to practice his finishing and become Strettle (the Saracens' version) mark 2. Which could be handy at this level, as he has the skill to match against New Zealanders and the experience in facing them, but more on the wing

Chances: mixed. Needs to integrate well at Saracens, but I think he will start scoring tries again and be in the mix.
Good for: actually, at Glasgow, facilitating others in attack

Others;
Peter Murchy: I know nothing about this guy, which bodes poorly.
Tom Brown: a solid player but not near the level or potential of most of the others on this list.
Tommy Seymour: definitely more of a winger

Wales:

The Incumbent: Liam Williams:

always showed talent but has grown into the real class in Wales' backline, with neat hands, strong running and a good, if sometimes a bit illegal, defender. Also very good in the air. Still can be hot-headed, but adds magic to some games and rarely plays badly. Probably, on current form, the best FB in the NH right now for me.

Chances: very good that he will tour, I think he fights Hogg for the starting 15 slot on current form.
Good for: offloading to the inside man whilst sucking in defenders on the wing. Really good at this, weirdly.

Leigh Halfpenny:

A Lions legend already, when he was fit he was the best kicker in the world for me, in terms of distance and consistency. However, frequently injured and despite once being a quick and dangerous attacker, this aspect of his game has fallen off as he bulked up. He still has those attributes but we never see them used. A very brave defender in the air and ground, though his technique and size put him at risk.

Chances: if he is fit, a good chance but really ought to be getting some gametime.
Good for: his attitude and example and his goalkicking.

Rhys Patchell:

playing 15 vs the All Blacks this weekend and a talented young payer, but at Int level seems better suited to 10 to me. A good passer and kicker, but I'm not sure he will have the impact needed running the ball back and the defensive positional nous.

Chances: could well tour, but as a 10 option, and needs to take this chance for Wales first as he has top players ahead of him even for them.
Good for: playing 10

Matthew Morgan:

quick and a flair player who also covers 10 (and arguably better?), "nipper" is a mercurial player, who could come off a bench to change a game but at his size and defence I would rather not see him start against NZ

Chances: moderate, as a utility player.
Good for: being a smaller, Welsh Quade Cooper - could go very well but a risk

Others:
Dan Evans: not a bad player, but can't see him getting ahead of Patchell never mind Sanjay or Pence.
Hallam Amos: has looked vulnerable at FB, like others in this list he is a better winger
James Hook: a utility option but I've never rated him at FB and looks like his Int career is dead.
Dan Fish: See Evans. Repeat.
Jordan Williams: classy in attack but not a great defender and has completely fallen off the radar, has the talent but unsure about the application and would need a huge season with Bristol

Next shirts – The Wingers

England:

Incumbent 1: Anthony Watson

Mentioned above for FB, wing is his place for me. A great try scoring record so far for England, pace to burn and a great step, and as good under the attacking high ball as anyone in my opinion (even Folau), Watson is an excellent balanced attacking winger, strong too, but his defence is flaky and he can be drawn in too much.

Chances: On the plane, probably. Could well start, he looks like he adds as much to the side as any other option and you seem to need a finisher and a 14.5 (half wing half fullback) in the side these days and he gives you both.
Good for: Scoring tries, still.

Incumbent 2: Jack Nowell

Also mentioned above, Nowell has an ability to break tackles that his frame wouldn’t lead you to believe he would. Generally has been solid in defence but has had a couple of poor games there. A powerful runner who complements Watson well and can cover 13 and 15 in a pinch.

Chances: decent, but there are currently a few in front of him.
Good at: barreling through traffic, scoring great tries when you forgot he is also fleet of foot.

Marlon Yarde

Coming back into some favour under Jones, Yarde is a powerful winger with outright speed when he gets outside and these days looks for a lot of work for Quins. His defence and workrate in defence is also a lot better. However, he does lack the magic touch of a few of England’s other wingers.

Chances: possible but seems quite unlikely.
Good for: a winger with a good balance of power and pace (diet George North)

Semesa Rokoduguni

Arguably the best player in a tricky season for Bath, and the one in their once daunting backline that played well no matter what, he also looked capable in his brief chance for England and very good in the recent Saxons tour wins. Very powerful and a strong defender, if direct, but not a lot of international experience.

Chances: I think he’d do well in the Lions but doubt he’ll be in the running.
Good for: 50+m wondertries, carrying power outwide.

Johnny May

The forgotten man of the English back 3, flaky in defence and the air but a devastating runner if he sticks to his new approach of running straight, and can cover a few positions. He has to come back from injury, which many before have struggled with, but last season he was a dangerous attacker (though I hate his jump into tackle approach) and can score tries that most other British and Irish wingers can only dream of.

Chances: hard to say. He needs to stay fit but if he does he has the verve to improve any team that uses him well.
Good for: running outside quick centres as if they are moving in treacle

Chris Ashton

Ashton is in great form and scoring tries again for Saracens, and is great at finishing and popping up in the middle of the field. His defence and attitude are still suspect, and seems to be seen as “hard to coach” by Eddie Jones, which is hardly in his favour.

Chances: If his attitude is deemed good enough, he has a chance to go even if England don’t pick him.
Good for: the inside ball in the opposition 22.

Christian Wade:

There are still question marks over Wade’s susceptibility to injury and his tackling (which looks pretty good at Premiership level considering his small size, but looked pretty dodgy in South Africa this summer). However, in attack he can create tries like few other outside backs, scores tries for fun in a match in which it all clicks and has ludicrous acceleration and swerving at speed.
Chances: he’s a unique winger alla Shane Williams right now and his ability to create tries from nothing will always give him a chance but his weaknesses are significant and will need covering.
Good for: creating a moment of magic with no warning.

Others:
Alex Lewington: been very good in a weak London Irish team but didn’t shine in his chance for the Saxons so would have a lot of work to do, esp with Irish relegated.
David Strettle: has done very well in France but hard to see him being in the minds of selectors enough to be picked.
Tom Varndell: very unlikely unless Bristol are immense and he has a miracle season.
Matt Banahan: a stalwart for Bath but lacking at International level.
Charlie Walker: too soon, too untested at the best level.
Manu Tuilagi: please not at wing
Mike Brown: PLEASE NOT AT WING!
James Short: good player, too many established in front of him. The same applies to Woodburn, Jess and Arnott
Charlie Sharples: seems his star has faded and his chance gone.
Zach Kibirige: the speedster may be an England player of the future but is nowhere near ready now
James Elliott: solid and dependable but not spectacular or “popular” enough to stand much chance
Tom Arscott and Will Addison: Both are Club level players for me.
Nathan Earle: like Kibirige, not ready yet.
Sam Smith: a good Club level player

Ireland:

Incumbent 1:
Andrew Trimble:

A good all around winger, with few flaws in my opinion, though not as flashy as many others. He’s a good defender and also a decent centre and will offer good cover even if he doesn’t start.

Chances: moderate, he would never let the side down and generally good at finishing his chances
Good for: having a decent game at everything.

Incumbent 2:
Keith Earls:

I have always envisioned Earls as a centre but he has done a pretty decent job at winger for Ireland and actually I think his speedy running and cover tackling but less than stellar head on defence plus his strong chip and chase game probably now suit wing better. Not my favourite player but has his strengths as noted above and has Lions experience.

Chances: as a previous tourist, inherently good.
Good for: chip and chasing

Simon Zebo:

Also a lethal winger, I expect him to go and get time at here and fullback at some point, even if only the midweek side. A mazy runner who can drift in and out of games but generates excitement with the ball.

Chances: good in some position
Good for: splitting apart defences
Craig Gilroy:

In very fine form for Ulster, and good at slipping through a defensive line, whenever I have seen him play he has impressed me, though he is seen as a backup choice for Ireland. Can cover 15 a bit and related to that good in the air for a winger. I think he’s one of Ireland’s better back 3 options but he has to get more international field time to really put a marker down.

Chances: ok, but currently not top 3 for Ireland
Good for: battling for kicks out wide.

Tommy Bowe:

An old master and a Lions hero in the past, Bowe when fit and up for it is still a lethal finisher and a good attacker in general. However his defence has looked shaky at best and he is struggling to stay healthy and sharp for long periods of time. If he stays fit he will always have a chance, but it looks less and less likely.

Chances: depends on fitness. Currently doesn’t deserve it but he’s a proven try-scorer.
Good for: finishing at top international games

Matt Healy:

The new kid in the Irish back 3 with good form for Connacht but only one cap so far. Has a good recent strike rate at Club level but haven’t seen enough of him at international level to know if he can carry it forward. He can also play FB.

Chances: pretty slim at the moment and has good players ahead of him for his country
Good for: coming in from deep to tear apart defences like he did against Grenoble this year.

Dave Kearney:

Looked to be an upcoming star a couple of seasons ago, as a strong defensive winger who could finish and make ground with powerful carries and in better form than his elder brother. However, his form seems to have tailed off a bit and Ulster and Connacht players are getting more limelight. Still has the skills to make it but needs to be starting for Ireland

Chances: not great right now, as the Irish back 3 has many options at winger, but could make it
Good for: Carrying and kick-chasing in the Schmidt gameplan

Luke Fitzgerald:

Seen by some as Ireland’s most gifted back, Fitzgerald has a wicked step, a dazzling instinct for jagged running lines and is good cover at 13 and 15. However, he is also made of Warburtonite and thus breaks very easily. His scoring record is also not as good as it could be. He has a previous Lion cap, which had a controversial moment in it.


Chances: good if he is fit. Again, a doubt, that.
Good for: sidestepping

Fergus McFadden:

The last Irish winger I have here, McFadden is not that young any more (but still not that old – 31 by next year’s tour) and recently in trouble after some poor tackling technique.  I have to say I can’t remember much about his actual play despite seeing him play a fair bit, but his National strike rate is ok-ish and his Club one is good, I can’t see him getting far enough ahead in the queue though.

Chances: unlikely with lots of competition
Good for: scoring points for Leinster, apparently


Scotland:

Incumbent 1:

Sean Maitland:

As mentioned earlier, Maitland can play wing or Fullback. I think he’ll play more wing for Saracens and Scotland, and will get a chance to get his Scotland shirt cemented again whilst getting a good opportunity to re-find his best finishing skills at pragmatic Saracens. His defence has improved a fair bit.

Chances: pretty good if he can start for Saracens
Good for: creating tries at Glasgow (before going to Irish)

Incumbent 2:

Tommy Seymour:

A powerful winger who is good at the kicking and high ball game too. He has been very reliable for Scotland really, with a knack for interception tries and a goo strike-rate and a good link up with Hogg.

Chances: a decent chance, he’s a winger who looks quite composed at international level
Good for: interception tries. But also finishing good team tries.

Sean Lamont:

An old warhorse, and warhorse describes him well- not the best hands, but high workrate and strong and determined. He’s lost a lot of pace and is now more of a reliable impact sub. Probably too old and past his best to tour.

Chances: pretty slim
Good for: giving his all and strength in the carry and tackle

Dougie Fife:

A good player, with the pace for 7s. Not had much chance for Scotland yet but plays well for Edinburgh. He can also cover 13 and 15.

Chances: with 3 Scottish back 3 players in the mix, very unlikely a 4th would be
Good for: scoring series winning tries in 7s

Others:

Damien Hoyland: a youngster who has impressed at age grade levels but not had a lot of chance to shine at a high enough grade yet. One to watch for the future.
Duncan Taylor: in good form at Saracens and Scotland and could link well with Maitland next year, but more of a centre ideally.
Robbie Nairn: rapid but not ready, a good talent for the future and 7s player
Ritchie Vernon: ex-flanker and I’ve seen him more at centre than wing. Good for filling in gaps but not Lions quality.
Rory Hughes: Has a Scotland Cap but has been playing for London Scottish and won’t be at this level yet
Lee Jones: Haven’t seen a lot of him lately. Brings a lot of pace but probably not the all around game and strength at the back or the sheer magic to make it

Wales:

Incumbent 1:

Liam Williams (as of time of writing):

Williams plays the wing well and was Wales’ best player of their New Zealand tour here, but FB is by far his best position. He may cover wing when needed but I expect him to go as a FB primarily.

Chances: very likely
Good for: being a fullback

Incumbent 2:

Hallam Amos:

Has looked vulnerable in defence and under the high ball, but dangerous in attack at times. Amos covers fullback as well and Gatland says that this is where he sees his future. He does have explosive speed which can punish anyone giving him space but is prone to some dodgy decision making.

Chances: With Halfpenny looking to make a comeback and Williams and North around, he’s going to have to fight hard for a place for Wales
Good for: punishing space

George North:

Looked in much better form in recent months for Wales and Saints and is still a monster in attack and a proven try-scorer with real speed. However, he has been a bit injury and concussion prone in particular, and his defence has been criticized. For his experience and sheer game changing ability and difficulty in stopping him, it would be hard not to pick him though and when he’s truly on form he is one of the NH’s best backs.

Chances: almost a cert to tour, pressing for a likely starting berth.
Good for: tries of all sorts- run ins, wondertries and smashing through the last defender.

Alex Cuthbert:

In vogue as of the last Lions tour, Cuthbert’s confidence has taken a huge hit and his form has slumped. In form he is a great finisher, better than North even, but his defence is dodgy at the best of times. In his current state he is a liability, even if there were sparks of recovery after the last 6 Nations at Club level.

Chances: slim realistically unless he turns things around
Good for: finishing chances

Leigh Halfpenny:

More of a fullback these days, but Halfpenny does cover wing and is arguably better used in attack there.

Chances: he’ll tour if fit and in form, more likely at 15.
Good for: world class kicking

Eli Walker:

Another pace-merchant but he has not impressed Gatland enough at camp evidently. He has the attacking weapons to be useful to a side with lots of ball, but I remain unconvinced by his defence and whether his attack makes up for it.

Chances: slim with better Welsh options
Good for: the attacking half of wingplay

Tom James:

Has been a good try scorer at club level wherever he has been, with a few scattered Wales Caps. He has some questions over his temperament with walking out on Wales in the past and verbal swordplay with his coach. A good player but not proven at International level and may have too much baggage. He does however have some potent acceleration and unpredictability.

Chances: see Walker
Good for: consistent try scoring thus far

Others:

Jordan Williams: talented but has fallen away from his early promise and has a lot of work to do
Keelan Giles: another young talent, very young, and too soon but we may hear more from him by 2021
Matthew Morgan: not ideally a winger
Aled Brew: has a fight for his Dragons starting jersey
Tom Prydie: a young talent who has pace and not yet fulfilled his early potential, too many ahead of him


Outside Centres

England

Incumbent:

Jonathan Joseph:
Has built his way up ahead of the likes of Manu to be one of the first names in the England team. Broke onto the scene with his fluent attacking, outside step and pace but recently we have seen this in only glimpses, though the potential to break a game wide open still remains. However, he has become the defensive glue of a robust England side and a very well balanced centre.

Chances: very good of touring, though 13 has some tough competition for a starting shirt
Good for: finishing tries and defending much better than his size would suggest

Mau Tuilagi:
Chronically injured and with a few flaws- he has quite good hands that he doesn’t use as much as he might, he’s not a subtle player and he can be impetuous in defence (see the England defence falling apart in NZ with Eastmond and Tuilagi together). However when fit and firing he is a difficult force to stop, a mix of pace, determination and raw power who breaks tackles and sucks in defenders. May well be trialled at 12 if he can remain fit.

Chances: If he gets enough gametime next year, I’d be amazed if he isn’t on the plane one way or another
Good for: Powerfully smashing apart defenses and sucking in men to put them on the backfoot.

Eliott Daly:
One of the club form players of the last season and a bit, and desperately unlucky to be behind really good players for his country. Has a huge and accurate boot, a lightning outside break and a propensity for the clever long pass outwide (with slick execution). A lovely step and a lot of raw speed, he’s a dangerous attacking option who gives an extra kicker over 50m and covers the back 3. However, there are a few questions about his straight up defence and he could do with getting a proper chance for England. Shone against the Lions for the Barbarians 3 years ago.

Chances: amazingly, with 2 other English 13s as well, still pretty decent as he adds a different, more pure pace related (and the boot) game to the others. But probably needs to steal the England shirt really.
Good for: outside breaks and huge kicks.

Henry Slade:
Chances reduced by a mediocre Premiership final, has yet another skillset for 13. Slade has also been touted at 10 and 12 and does appear to have the composure and potential for top level rugby. A solid defender, good decision maker in general, Slade also has a nice step and soft hands with a full passing repertoire and the kicking skills of a 10, and his utility cover make him useful. But he’s not that quick for an outside centre or that powerful and may work better as a second playmaker at 12.

Chances: OK, but needs to perform in a pressure environment.
Good for: Covering the midfield and adding another playmaker

Luther Burrell:
Burrell has recently played 12 in his underwhelming last few England caps, but at Saints largely starts at 13 and many think he is better suited there. A powerful runner, with a knack for finishing tries and much improved hands, Burrell’s biggest weaknesses are his dodgy defensive awareness and the fact that he is basically a diet Tuilagi.

Chances: Slim, others offer what he does better.
Good for: filling in for Tuilagi


Ben T’eo:
An import who is yet to start for England but made Jones’ tour squad and plays for Leinster where he started at 12 and 13 (not at the same time), T’eo has been in good form and is a strong defender and powerful carrier with decent hands. He has shown up well at Club level but NZ will feel comfortable playing him and has yet to get a chance at international level. He too is a bit “Manu Light”.

Chances: also slim, see above
Good for: see above but maybe more solid

Others: George Lowe of Harlequins improves his side whenever he plays acting as glue, but has no chance after injuries and established players ahead of him and his teammate, Matt Hopper, is not international quality and has faded a lot from 2 years ago.
Matt Banahan has England caps on the wing but really looks a good club player unable to step up further in both positions.
Henry Trinder is a livewire option at 13 but also always injured and too far down the pecking.
Billy Twelvetrees is more a 12 and though he has the skillset and has played well at times for England and could come into contention with improved consistency and a great season, he appears to lack the decision making needed for international rugby.
Matt Tait was a very strong 13 for England but has lost the verve and pace he once had and now plays more 15 and as a more solid and efficient option and I can’t see him making a comeback even though I doubt he’s let the Lions down.
Matt Smith is a club player, albeit a good one.
Brad Barritt is a 12 and his time is past – we need more in attack.
Nick Tompkins has the instinctive running lines and may well be a future England centre but is currently too green especially in picking options.
Harry Mallinder is more a 12 and it’s likely too soon for him.
Joe Marchant also looks a fleet of foot talent but needs more game time for Quins let alone England.

Ireland:

Incumbent:

Robbie Henshaw:
Henshaw has largely played, and impressed, at 12 for Ireland and may tour mostly as a 12 though he got his shot at 13 in SA. He has been tipped as the next BOD and though he is talented he is a different player really. He has a step which is underused at international level, and is a very strong defender and a good rucker. That’s where the similarities lie. Otherwise he is a more direct runner in general and very strong under the high ball. Can be used very well, but does have quiet games unlike BOD.

Chances: good chance of touring, likely playing 12 not 13
Good for: excellent kick chasing and aggressive defence

Jared Payne:
Payne also plays 15 but has mostly been a 13 for Ireland and has a lot of attacking talent as well as being a very strong defender indeed. Like Henshaw he is good in the air and in a kicking battle, and like Henshaw his attacking instincts haven’t been seen as much as I’d like for Ireland. He’s a very well balanced option and covering 15 helps him out.

Chances: likely tourist though unsure exactly where
Good for: kicking battles

Stuart Olding:
One of several talented Irish centres pushing for a spot and got his first proper bite (after a debut a few years ago) in South Africa. Olding can also play 15 and at a pinch a playmaker, but his career has been injury stricken. He has a wide range of skills, with really nice footwork, some playmaking and very good hands. A bit like Slade, for me, but a touch further along due to Ireland’s smaller player base. He’s small but a good decision maker which is important.

Chances: decent, he has the balanced skill set but needs to cement a centre spot for Ireland really
Good for: a centre who can play 2nd receiver and makes good decisions

Luke Marshall:
Marshall has been in and out of the Ireland squad, affected by a few concussions amongst other things, and looks (a bit like Olding but a slightly different player) to be more of a 12 to me. He is a powerful direct runner but also good at delayed passing and comes with good creativity for a strong runner. A very solid option at 12 but there’s a lot of competition at centre.

Chances: Ok, but needs to shine given the competition
Good for: a powerful carrier who can still add playmaking

Stuart McCloskey:
Another young centre who looks more likely to play 12 to me, McCloskey impressed against England in this year’s 6 Nations, and though raw is very powerful and uses his frame well in contact. He also hits hard in defence and has some real dog. Definitely not subtle and more a 12 though.

Chances: didn’t make the Ireland Tour squad so has to get some limelight in big games really
Good for: direct, confrontational running

Darren Cave:
Cave is more experienced than some of Ireland’s centres here, with a few scattered caps and Wolfhound appearances, also affected by recurrent injuries. He’s a solid player, another strong carrier and is very powerful in defence and very consistent for Ulster. However he seems to not be high up Schmidt’s list, possibly after some comments about the Ireland set up and Heaslip affecting perceptions of his attitude? Maybe a tad limited for the Lions.

Chances: seem pretty slim right now, but always does well for his club so he has time to make a case
Good for: good defensive centre

Garry Ringrose:
Espoused by O’Driscoll himself, a genuine tyro. Unlike most of these players, he is a clear 13 and has lovely footwork and a few passing tricks like his patron. He’s still young and inexperienced, but definitely has talent and from the little I have seen he has time on the ball too. It’s not unknown for very inexperienced players to go with the Lions but thus far he hasn’t really played with Leinster enough yet alone Ireland to be high up the list for me. I suspect he has a huge future though.

Chances: could go as a bolter but would be quite bold. Needs more experience
Good for: beautiful nimble feet

Others: Tommy Bowe is a fading but quality winger, and he can cover 13 but if he goes it will be at wing.
Keith Earls is a very similar situation, though has played a lot of 13, and I think will press hard for a tour spot as mentioned in the wing section.
Noel Reid is another talented centre for Leinster but he is a fly-half-style 12 and I can’t see him playing 13.


Scotland:

Incumbent:

Matt Scott:
The first of the “new wave” of good Scottish centres, Scott played 13 in Scotland’s last match but is a 12 primarily. He’s an understated player who makes good lines and has a fine array of passing without being flashy. He makes Scotland look a better side, but I think we’ll mostly consider him as a 12.

Chances: won’t be a 13 but in the mix at 12
Good for: playing 12, augmenting others

Peter Horne:
A real utility back, covering centres, fullback and flyhalf as needed, Horne has been a key player for Glasgow the past couple of seasons. He also adds kicking and goalkicking skills. He’s not a standout player in any of his positions but  a very handy squad player who can fill in gaps and do a job in a number of roles. This is always useful on a tour like the Lions but I don’t think he’s exceptional enough to tour.

Chances: slim unless it’s for broad cover
Good for: utility

Duncan Taylor:
Taylor also covers 12 and wing but is largely a 13 and has had a very good season for European Champions Saracens, keeping Bosch out of the starting 15 most of the time. He has had hard competition for a Scotland shirt, getting a few recent starts and covering off the bench and I think looking very good each time. Has a very solid set of basics but also an incisive runner. His work off the ball got him voted Saracens’ players’ player of the season this year, which speaks volumes.

Chances: decent. Saracens give a good chance to play in a winning side but needs more Scotland starts.
Good for: lots and lots of work in defence and off the ball

Richie Vernon:
Once a flanker but with his pace converted to a centre/winger. Vernon seems a pretty solid centre but not quite a natural here, and I don’t think he’ll be able to get ahead of the other Scottish centres, who are pretty strong at the moment.

Chances: unlikely
Good for: covering flanker

Alex Dunbar:
A powerful centre who looked set to have cemented a Scotland place but has been injured recently. He was a lynchpin for Glasgow, and whenever fit seems to be likely to start for the Scots. He has a good range of handling skills and an eye for a try but it’s his strength that seems to be his greatest asset and will always make yards in attack.

Chances: If he can get and stay fit he has a decent shot though Taylor, Bennett and Scott will all be gunning for the Scotland centre slots.
Good for: giving the midfield impetus

Mark Bennett:
I think more likely to play 13 to Dunbar’s 12 for Scotland as they do when both are fit for Glasgow. Scored a wonderful try against Australia in the RWC (and has a good club strike rate) and has the pace to play 7s (he tried for a Rio Team GB slot, he is a dangerous runner in the wide channels and as far as I’ve seen his defense is solid too. He looks a very good international centre to me (in some big matches) and will press for a place but as I’ve said before, 13 has a lot of competition.

Chances: pretty good, looks very dangerous though choosing Rio over the Japan tour could hurt his chances
Good for: finishing off tries with pace

Others: Sean Lamont is still a workhorse and warhorse but isn’t going to go on the Lions tour.
Huw Jones & Nick Grigg I must confess I don’t know much about, could any Scotland supporters enlighten me? Thanks

Wales:

Incumbent:

Jonathan Davies:
A previous Lion and very strong carrier, clever player and excellent defender, with an underrated step. However, the Wales midfield has recently (though JD2 looked good in NZ) seemed a bit stale and Foxy still has a weakness in his distribution. However, his experience, closeness to Gatland and power will put him in good stead. Could also cover 12, I think, and a very safe option.

Chances: very good for the reasons above
Good for: safe, steady and experienced

Scott Williams:
Some are calling for Williams to replace Roberts at 12 and he looks equally good at 12 and 13 to me. A decent turn of pace and also a powerful carrier and defender but a little less one-note than Roberts seems to be these days. His handling also seems decent if not slick and he has been pretty good at International level. Mostly famously in my mind, he had the opportunism, observantness and strength to rip the ball from Courtney Lawes in what was likely a Grandslam sealing try.

Chances: decent, though one suspects Roberts is still ahead in the order and he’s unlikely to start at 13 with Davies around
Good for: breaking English hearts

Tyler Morgan:
A young talented Welsh player, with only 3 caps so far, and looks to me to be the future 13 for Wales. I think he has the best distribution of the Welsh 13s, and he is a classy but still strong runner in explosive bursts. He is still a bit raw and I don’t think he’ll be ready for the Lions but he is certainly one to watch further down the line and if he gets some Wales caps this Autumn he might usurp a place in the Wales XV and have as  good a chance as anyone of touring.

Chances: possible but likely too soon
Good for: a nice balance between traditional power and more subtlety

Cory Allen:
Another player pressing for a Team GB 7s slot, and with a good chance, and a powerfully built centre with genuine pace, able to cover 12 or 13 (I expect eventually he’ll play 12 and Morgan 13). Stepping out of the summer tour for 7s may hurt his chances, but he has the tools to replace Roberts for Wales though he is a very different player. He has also just come back from a serious ankle injury so it’s unclear what his form might be like.

Chances: decent, but Williams, Davies and Roberts are likely ahead of him
Good for: pacy attacking runs



Others: Ashley Beck is a solid centre at club level but has a few ahead of him for his country.
Jonathan Spratt has caps but isn’t international standard and is unlikely to add to them.
Adam Warren will be fighting with Morgan and isn’t going to feature.
George North can play 13 but will be starting on the wing we expect.


Inside centres

England

Incumbent:

Owen Farrell:
Farrell is predominantly a 10 at club level (though he plays 12 and has played and indeed started at 13 for his club) and at international level but has recently had a surprisingly effective partnership outside of George Ford at 10, emulating their successful run together in the U20 team. He has been in good form in both positions and worked hard on his attaching structure and running which will never be world leading but is no longer a weakness. His tackling and kicking are big strengths but he can be impetuous and petulant on the pitch.

Chances: almost a certain traveller, whether he starts (at 10 or 12) is unclear.
Good for: kicking option and playmaker at 12.



Ben T'eo:
Was close to qualifying for Ireland but has switched allegiances to England. A powerful centre at 12 or 13 and one of Leinster's better players this season, and with decent hands. Was selected by Eddie Jones to travel to Australia but kept out by Farrell. Probably needs to get a shot for England and the Kiwis will know what to expect, so a bit of a diet Jamie Roberts in many ways.

Chances: ok, but can't help but feel others to the same thing but to a higher or more proven level.
Good for: hard carrying

Henry Slade:
Has the skillset for anywhere in the midfield, with a nice step, time on the ball, solid defence, a kicking (and goalkicking) game and lovely hands. Has dropped in the rankings a bit after a poor Premiership final but looked promising before the World Cup last year. A good playmaking option.

Chances: ok, needs to prove to Jones that he can perform under pressure and then get an England slot
Good for: playmaking and a second kicker, but more attacking ability than Farrell.

Manu Tuilagi:
Hasn't played much 12 but has been suggested as an option there and looked ok when he has featured. At 13, when fit (sadly rare in recent seasons) he is a wrecking ball with deceptive pace and underrated hands though can back himself rather than the pass a bit. Could develop into a Nonu style 12, but needs to play there regularly and lacks a kicking game.

Chances: good if he's fit
Good for: being an unstoppable force of nature

Billy Twelvetrees:
Appears to have all the skills he needs with good hands, a strong tackler and a huge boot. However, has lacked consistency for England and lost his place, and seems to lack decision making ability and composure that are vital for top level rugby. A shame because he is talented.

Chances: currently pretty low but if he improves on the weaknesses above who knows?
Good for: rounded skillset

Sam Hill:
The main 12 and "glue player" for Exeter, has a good carry and hands to put people into space. Sold defender. Not the flashiest player or even flashiest player at Exeter but has few weaknesses in the position and facilitates those around him

Chances: decent, works well with most options at 10 or 13, needs his cap
Good for: balanced reliability 


Brad Barritt:
Past his England years, Barritt always had the capacity to attack (see his SA rugby years) but we never really saw it for club or country. However, he was, until a dire stretch in the last World Cup, Mr Reliable with a rock solid and suffocating defence. It will take more than that to trouble the All Blacks.

Chances: slim, too limited
Good for: heroic defence

Kyle Eastmond:
Was vaunted at one stage but has dropped off, not being picked by Bath for whatever reason. Has wonderful footwork and can be lethal in attack but is going to lose ground even on successful tackles in defence and needs some power in the back line with him. Offers something unique and can probably be used very effectively but would be very anxious to watch in defence. EDIT: now at Wasps, where again he may not always work in the balance of the back line but should get lots of attacking ball - I'm intrigued as to how much chance he gets and think he'll look dangerous in attack but worried about his defence in a light back line.

Chances: if he can start regularly at his new club and get England time (which looks hard) then he could go as a different option but currently seems unlikely
Good for: jinking through a defence.

Luther Burrell:
Was afforded a second chance after harshly missing out on a World Cup place but didn't work against Australia. We have seen that he can be a good player from a few seasons ago, but at club level seems better at 13. Has probably lost his chance for England at this point, and his defence has been lax recently.

Chances: not great right now
Good for: power centre-ing

Ollie Devoto:
Close to Jones' England squad and looked decent for the Saxons, with good running and defence. Has strangely moved to Exeter where the competition to start at centre is much higher... He is obviously doing something to impress the coaches but seems a decent but non-spectacular option to me, and I think he'll struggle to start at Chiefs

Chances: obviously impresses his coaches but don't think he'll start at Exeter never mind the Lions.
Good for: covers a lot of options.

Piers Francis:
Fitting the current resurgence for a second playmaker at 12, Francis is a rare English player in the Super 15, and has been acting as a foil to West at the Blues playing 12. He also covers 10, and is getting a lot of praise for helping the Blues tick this season with his ability to make space and take the pressure off 10. Playing abroad, he's unlikely to get an England cap soon but will know the kiwi players well and stepping up at Super Rugby level is a big test. Could be considered as a bolter.

Chances: slim as he won't get international experience first, but if anyone is a non-capped pick he's the likely contender 
Good for: a second playmaker to take pressure off 10

Others: Harry Malinder at Saints has looked good at Premiership level and great at U20 level, and is clearly one for the future but this tour is one too soon to be realistic.
Similarly for the young Henry Sloan of Quins who has deputised for Roberts well but isn't International level yet.

Ireland:

Incumbent:

Stuart Olding:

A bit like a smaller Slade, Olding has nice feet and hands and is a clever player. He has been unlucky with injuries, but has the talent to be the Ireland 12 for a while. However, he also has a lot of competition there and really needs to cement that spot to stand a chance.

Chances: is in a good place but next tour more realistic
Good for: a balanced, skilful centre

Luke Marshall:

A more powerful option, as addressed in the 13 list, still with some deftness and looks a good solid 12 and has shown up well for Ireland in his chances so far. Like Olding he is not very established at International level yet so will have to fight for any spot. Would work well with a mobile, fleet of foot 13.

Chances: ok, like Olding needs to cement an Ireland spot.
Good for: powerful carrying but can play more creatively as well

Robbie Henshaw:
I think he's best at 13, where he last played, and also covers 15, but has mostly played 12 for Ireland. In this position his running has been less prominent but his kick chasing and defence has been fantastic. A very good player for me, and should travel to play either centre spot.

Chances: good and will press to start.
Good for: kick chasing and tackling but with a full attacking range too.

Stuart McCloskey:
Strangely (to me) dropped for the South Africa tour, a player who impressed me on his brief 6N showing, determined and dogged and powerful running and tackles. Unsubtle but his sheer tenacity and rawness could provide whomever starts at 12 for the Kiwis a lot to think about.

Chances: unless he gets his Ireland shirt, not great but ok
Good for: raw power

Noel Reid

A classy player at 12 who can cover the playmaking 15 or 10 role as well. Very much the second fifth-eighth approach to centre, he has playmaking ability and a good eye for creating chances but even at Leinster there is a lot of competition for places never mind Ireland or the Lions, so he needs to step up and guarantee a club starting place first

Chances: until he's first choice at his club, slim
Good for: a second fly half in the back line without giving up centre specific skills

Others: Ian Madigan is immensely talented, if with recent struggles with O'Connor at Leinster and a new French Club. Decent shot of touring but likely needs to pick a position and stick to it.
Johnny Sexton will obviously go, but he's gonna play 10 (or bench) unless some quirky selection alla Farrell at 12 for England sees Ford at 10 with him outside very successful in training.

Scotland:

Incumbent:

Peter Horne:
As noted before, a good utility type player who covers a lot of options but doesn't really have Lions sparkle for me.  His kicking at 12 is quite handy though and he's a good squad player who could make up the numbers, but Scotland have better centres more likely to go.

Chances: ok but not great.
Good for: utility cover

Alex Dunbar:
Injured recently but key for Glasgow when they were good, and he has very adept handling and the strength to hold the ball up and lead the defence at 12. He's a really good player and I think a bit underrated due to his absence recently. He can also break the line if given a bit more space and I think he has a good chance of touring.

Chances: pretty good, has a lot to offer at centre
Good at: committing defenders and punishing them if they don't commit. Like a Sex in the City character. Or something.

Matt Scott:
Was once the bright future of the Scotland midfield. This status has waned a bit, more due to playing outside continuing clumpy 10s (pre-Russell) and then the rise of other good centres for once. However, he's still got a good pass and a nifty runner and he's still a bloody good player. Would be happy for him to be involved.

Chances: pretty good- he can play 12 or 13 so likely to get exposure and offers variety if he goes.
Good for: reliable skills and good hands

Duncan Taylor:
Resurgent under the current Saracens set up and one of the most in form centres at national and club level in Europe. It feels strange bigging up Scottish centres but there are a few good ones around these days, and Taylor is brave and vital in defence and runs good lines and covers a lot of positions. If he keeps this form up, I would take him. Probably a better 12.

Chances: pretty good, but there's a recurring theme here and not all of these options can go.
Good for: covering the back line and consistent hard work.

Huw Jones:
Now that I've been reminded, as opposed to my comments in the 13 section, I do know who this guy is. He's been playing good rugby and managing to start in Super 15 in the Sharks lineup, which for a NH player is a testament to his quality. He's been doing well there too, but in fact is far more of a 13 who can cover 12 or 15. He should have been there properly on the 13 list, sorry. He has just been capped and so would be a surprise to tour, but the Lions sometimes take bolters and he'd be used to playing New Zealand starters more than most.

Chances: would be a surprise bolter but there's often a surprise pick and he's a good player.
Good at: running classy lines from 13

Others: Fraser Lyle is a solid utility back but won't get capped the way things are Ruaridh Jackson is a very good 10 and we will discuss him next time, but an emergency cover at 12 only. Duncan Weir similarly, though I don't think he'll go as a 10 either.
Chris Dean is one I also should have discussed on the 13 list, a good quick young player with potential, needs more time with Edinburgh.
Mark Bennett has a great chance but is far more a 13.
Nick De Luca may get a new lease of life with Wasps, but let's be honest, probably not. (Also more a 13)

Wales:

Incumbent:

Jamie Roberts:
One of Gatland's key players and had a decent season with Quins and Wales before looking tired in NZ. Roberts brings power and sucks in players and leads the defence but we've seen little else from him for years despite starting in the back 3 and being a decent passer! Maybe someone else can get more from him. Either way, his way of playing may be one dimensional right now but it's hard to stop and has a place.

Chances: pretty bloody good esp if Gatland leads
Good for: sucking in defenders, dominating defence

Scott Willams:
A bit more varied, and covers 13 as well. More running but still a good carrier and has decent hands and a safe defender. Needs to steal a place from the long standing duo of Davies and Roberts but looks more likely to do so than ever before and a good outside bet to tour.

Chances: very reasonable
Good for: making me cry by stripping Lawes

Cory Allen:
One of the standouts for Cardiff Blues in recent seasons, Allen is a big chap and can do the Roberts role ok, but has a more used set of good hands and more pace. As long as he can get back into 15s after trying for 7s, he's good enough to get a Wales starting berth and press for a Lions shirt, though with those three above him (Williams, Davies and Roberts) it will be tough. Lovely to watch on the break.

Chances: pretty decent, big names keeping him out though
Good for: Roberts with pace

Jonathan Davies:
Definitely more a 13 but can play 12 and could have a decent combo with the likes of Joseph, with him still having the power to suck people in and an attacking ability of his own. His pass is a weakness and at 12 more so, though, and it would be a risk.

Chances: very good but far more likely at 13
Good for: playing 13, or a 12 that doesn't need to pass.

James Hook:
The forgotten child of Welsh rugby, a talent with some doubts in his decision making and composure that he's never been able to shake. Has had good and less good moments for Gloucester. Still has a nice step and a complete kicking game. Still a bit flakey and especially in defence. Covers 10, 12, 13 and 15 all pretty solidly. But seems his time is past.

Chances: could do it but not high up the list right now.
Good for: a bit of flair, but with a bit of risk.

Others: Tyler Morgan is more a 13 and still green.
Gavin Henson is a blast from the past, Lions too much of a step up for his recent years.
Ashley Beck is a solid player but I think well behind other centres

The Great Aukster wrote:

TJ wrote:

The Great Aukster wrote:.......................
If the Lions are able to do anything in NZ their only chance is to play high possession low risk rugby and hope they have a kicker who can convert more points through penalties than the opposition can score through breakaway tries.
.....................

I would say the opposite is true.  NZ will score tries.  You will only beat them by scoring more tries.  Look at the last England win.  

I agree that NZ will score tries but I disagree that the Lions will beat them by scoring more tries - that is the AB strategy and they have been playing it for years. If the Lions play a form of rugby they are unfamiliar and unpracticed at they will get creamed big style.
The All Blacks are very professional and that includes their defence. It is honed over a long time to build the understanding that makes them hard to break down. The Lions simply don't have any time to develop smart backs moves that stand any chance of breaking down a settled defensive system.

Settled Test sides like England can practice their moves, but the Lions simply don't have months together to get the timing and positioning good enough to work.
A second possibility is to have bigger and faster backs with more skill that their All Black opponents - maybe Hogg is getting close but he's certainly not better, so the Lions can't rely on exceptional individuals to score more than the ABs.
That leaves the forwards to scrum and maul their way over the line - which is a possibility for a score or two but not a bagful.

The Lions will need Halfpenny to stand any chance of an upset, and at least to keep the scores semi-respectable.

That's why whoever the coach is will, where possible pick settled partnerships say Roberts and Davies or Farrell and Joseph etc.

As for needing Halfpenny then Farrell Biggar or Sexton are just as reliable % wise but don't not have the distance

I still would disagree. YOu play the team and players most likely to score tries ( so long as their defence is not suspect) - So Hogg not 1/2p, Joseph not Roberts or Burrell. real speedsters on the wings like Watson or Nowell, Flay half who can break down defenses. You might get beaten 40:30 but at least you tried - better than getting beaten 14:6 with a defensive gameplan that means you will not score tries. Rugby has moved on since Englands WC success - grinding downfeild looking for penalties does not win against the top sides

You play the way that gives you the best chance of winning to a point. The Lions is a bit more complicated than that given for me at least it should be a true combination of the sides. If it means playing like the old England side who scored more tries and points while playing a negative style (bit like Saracens) well fair enough. I'd say that we currently have a set of forwards who can dominate but also a set of backs who can sprinkle the magic dust.

Yup - big nasty controlling pack with NO passengers, backs powered by fairy dust. YOu need both to beat the ABs. You need to both dominate possession and to have the ability to score tries by the hatful

Yes, but I think that the views on how best to do that are open for discussion. Saracens have scored a shed load without having a particularly pretty way of doing it. The England team which ground others into the ground which wouldn't work anymore had some brilliant quality behind the pack. Guess my point is there's the players and the tactics. This is where I didn't like how Gatland went about things last time. He seemingly to me ignored the first, thought purely on the second then picked players to do this. I would ideally like to see a more integrated method. Not easy but tonnes of talent available and a healthy paycheck for the headaches the coach will get.

Saracens may not be pretty but they do have some very good backs and do use them to score tries do they not?

My point exactly TJ. I've possibly read your post incorrectly but the Saracens of today, best in Europe at present for me, have a game plan that is similar to in parts to that of England of 03. Amazinging pack who sucks the life out of the opposition, possibly the best stifling defence I've seen, extremyl happy to play without the ball (consistently loking better doing that), playing territory first and foremost which lots of kicking. Leads to extreme pressure, mistakes and tries.

They have good backs but to come back to your point of Hogg over Halfpenny, Joseph not Roberts (ignored the fact you thought Nowell is a flier!) I don't think Saracens would make any of those choices. Hence players and tactics as a whole.

No 7 & 1/2 you talk about "negativity". I wouldn't really call Saracens negative. I think the word you are looking for is pragmatic.

There's no point trying to chuck the own ball around in your own 22 all the time. You only put yourself under needless pressure.

It's important to play in the right areas. Saracens try to do that and they've scored some good tries, nice offloads and skill from forwards. Forwards like Billy,Brits,George and Itoje don't just bosh it up, there is some finesse.

It's about being able to adapt to situations.

NZ are have excellent basics and even they don't attack from everywhere all the time.

It's a valid way of playing beshocked and effective. Wouldn't describe it as positive myself but up to you.

As Martin Johnson famously said when asked why England won so many games through Wilko's kicking, "it's not us that's giving away the penalties."

The '03 England side didn't go looking for penalties; when they were given the opportunity to play they could really play (doesn't Greenwood still hold the tryscoring record for an England IC?). But they played against a lot of sides who were prepared to concede a penalty and a near-certain 3 points near their own 10m line rather than risk England getting into their red zone.

Saracens are cut from a similar cloth, albeit in a newer, more technical fabric. When games open up, they can score tries. When games are close, they control territory, kick their points and live off mistakes.

The issue for the Lions is the same as it is for a new coach coming in to an interational squad: you have a limited amount of coaching time and only so much you can impart in that time. So defence and setpiece will normally be more stable than attack, and attacking moves will almost never be as fluid as the opposition's.

Which is one reason why Lions teams tend to turn up unexpected players who win their test caps because they enable the players around them to play. It happened with McGeechan in '74, for instance.

No 7&1/2 wrote:My point exactly TJ. I've possibly read your post incorrectly but the Saracens of today, best in Europe at present for me, have a game plan that is similar to in parts to that of England of 03. Amazinging pack who sucks the life out of the opposition, possibly the best stifling defence I've seen, extremyl happy to play without the ball (consistently loking better doing that), playing territory first and foremost which lots of kicking. Leads to extreme pressure, mistakes and tries.

They have good backs but to come back to your point of Hogg over Halfpenny, Joseph not Roberts (ignored the fact you thought Nowell is a flier!) I don't think Saracens would make any of those choices. Hence players and tactics as a whole.

A few years back - last time the JWC was in the UK if I recall correctly (with players like Cato and Jordan TH) - England U20's beat Australia and SA with a mean pressure game focused on forcing errors then scoring on the counter. Next game was vs NZ. Simple. NZ didn't make mistakes and therefore there were no chances to exploit.

It is a very simplistic way of looking at things. I am also very wary of reading too much into NZ being godlike in everything they do. But I am also wary of depending only upon forcing mistakes to win against the best opposition.

Saracens are not unbeatable either - but beating them requires an increased level of physicality at break down, no errors and taking all points on offer. Its the same for beating NZ, just with everything scaled up.
Rugby is simple - for another international side to do that is very difficult. For the Lions to do that with limited time together would be exceptional - but, sometimes things just click.

I`m asked a question,I answer it and I`m accused of talking down a team.
England played to there strengths,andwon there games good on them,I was cheering for them too.
That doesn't make me blind to the machinations of the Pack "winning"
penalties at Scrum/lineout/breakdown by devious means.
THAT applies to every team on the planet,hey don`t shoot the messenger
because he tells the truth.
Eddie Jones wasn't impressed by the lineout in the second test or
defence in the third.
It was only that we won 8 penalties in the second half that we won
the match HIS words.
Hansen isn`t happy about his side leaking late tries,or only functioning
in fits and starts.
The Rugby Championship will probably meaning overseas based players
back for SA/Argentina/Aus also possibly in the AI`s.
Would`nt be at all surprised 8 win out of 10 matches including
the First Test where NZ will be rusty.

I don't think you can beat the ABs with penalties and (9 man rugby - yes pick a pack to boss them not a leightweight fast pack - but you need the backs to them be able to score tries.

The england of 03 and the wales of the last few years way of playing simply will get you beaten in a low scoring game. YOu need to have the backs who are able to score at least 3 ties - you won't win with less as yo will never be able to hold the ABs to a low score

Toulon took years before they won anything, so did Saracens. It took the ABs years before they won their second RWC. These teams have some of the best backs playing the game and yet somehow the Lions can throw together a team in days and score tries right, left and centre! If it was that easy to pick combinations and send them out to score tries, there would be no need for coaches at all.

Maybe the only way to beat the ABs is to score tries, but the conundrum is that the Lions have no time to learn how to break down a settled defence with a scratch attack. A loose gameplan (especially for guys not used to playing it), is exactly how the ABs love their opposition to play, so if the Lions do that I'd expect some record hammerings.

emack2 wrote:I`m asked a question,I answer it and I`m accused of talking down a team.
England played to there strengths,andwon there games good on them,I was cheering for them too.
That doesn't make me blind to the machinations of the Pack "winning"
penalties at Scrum/lineout/breakdown by devious means.
THAT applies to every team on the planet,hey don`t shoot the messenger
because he tells the truth.
Eddie Jones wasn't impressed by the lineout in the second test or
defence in the third.
It was only that we won 8 penalties in the second half that we won
the match HIS words.
Hansen isn`t happy about his side leaking late tries,or only functioning
in fits and starts.
The Rugby Championship will probably meaning overseas based players
back for SA/Argentina/Aus also possibly in the AI`s.
Would`nt be at all surprised  8 win out of 10 matches including
the First Test where NZ will be rusty.

You always talk down any team which is noy NZ and seriously it's their.

TJ wrote:I don't think you can beat the ABs with penalties and (9 man rugby - yes pick a pack to boss them not a leightweight fast pack - but you need the backs to them be able to score tries.

The england of 03 and the wales of the last few years way of playing simply will get you beaten in a low scoring game.  YOu need to have the backs who are able to score at least 3 ties - you won't win with less as yo will never be able to hold the ABs to a low score

The 03 team was slightly good. Better in the previous few years granted.

YOU are definitely getting pedantic and very boring don`t let the truth
get in the way of opinions.
Eddie Jones has done wonders with Englands fitness levels,and the
Coaches like George Smith and JW has done wonders with Haskell,
Farrell and others.
His use of the bench and pulling players underperforming early is
very clever.
As someone else wrote the difference was decision making,and taking
your Captain off after 60minutes is very strange.
A very good performance as a whole but EJ will be looking at some
areas and players HIS words.
Cheika is no doubt not only not going overseas for his best players
but stateing it early on.
The difference be honest was Farrells boot,no matter how well the team
played it came down to goalkicking just as the 2003 side did at times.
THAT is a major weakness for the current NZ side and they still have
problems at 10,12,13,15,and 7.
You win by whatever means you can and the game plan is what used
to be referred to as winning rugby back in 1950-60`s for Farell/JW
try OkeyGeffin/Don Clarke.

The difference was more than Farrell, we outplayed Aus for the majority of the tour.

No 7&1/2 wrote:The difference was more than Farrell, we outplayed Aus for the majority of the tour.

pedantic and boring again *sigh....

Mentally we were tougher than the Australians. And whatever was said they coughed up penalty after penalty with three different referees. We didn't. That is the difference. Just because we happen to have an exceptional kicker on the hottest of hot streaks is neither here nor there. Its just a route to scoring points. Over the 3 games we scored a whole one try less than the Australians with half the time in possession (and of course scored a lot more points -30+? I forget).

The Australians playing at home did do some things exceptionally well, especially the pretty things e.g. running the ball. Too often it was just side to side though. Lots of Australians were very impressed with that England team. The Twickenham game in a few months is going to be very tasty

For once 7 1/2 agree with you they did thoroughly deserve the win.

lostinwales wrote:

No 7&1/2 wrote:The difference was more than Farrell, we outplayed Aus for the majority of the tour.

pedantic and boring again *sigh....

Mentally we were tougher than the Australians. And whatever was said they coughed up penalty after penalty with three different referees. We didn't. That is the difference. Just because we happen to have an exceptional kicker on the hottest of hot streaks is neither here nor there. Its just a route to scoring points. Over the 3 games we scored a whole one try less than the Australians with half the time in possession (and of course scored a lot more points -30+? I forget).

The Australians playing at home did do some things exceptionally well, especially the pretty things e.g. running the ball. Too often it was just side to side though. Lots of Australians were very impressed with that England team. The Twickenham game in a few months is going to be very tasty

Ta very much lost.

No 7&1/2 wrote:

lostinwales wrote:

No 7&1/2 wrote:The difference was more than Farrell, we outplayed Aus for the majority of the tour.

pedantic and boring again *sigh....

Mentally we were tougher than the Australians. And whatever was said they coughed up penalty after penalty with three different referees. We didn't. That is the difference. Just because we happen to have an exceptional kicker on the hottest of hot streaks is neither here nor there. Its just a route to scoring points. Over the 3 games we scored a whole one try less than the Australians with half the time in possession (and of course scored a lot more points -30+? I forget).

The Australians playing at home did do some things exceptionally well, especially the pretty things e.g. running the ball. Too often it was just side to side though. Lots of Australians were very impressed with that England team. The Twickenham game in a few months is going to be very tasty

Ta very much lost.

Well its frustrating as you well know, having England talked down after the Oz tour.

There have been plenty of times in the last 13 years when its been justified even though we have had some very good one off performances. Its not been sustained and there has been a fair amount of performances that were just not good enough. The Oz tour was exceptional because all 3 performances were consistently good and also seemed to promise that there is a lot more to come. We won't get a proper feel for the achievement until we see Australia in the RC, but its a good place to be right now.

lostinwales wrote:

No 7&1/2 wrote:

lostinwales wrote:

No 7&1/2 wrote:The difference was more than Farrell, we outplayed Aus for the majority of the tour.

pedantic and boring again *sigh....

Mentally we were tougher than the Australians. And whatever was said they coughed up penalty after penalty with three different referees. We didn't. That is the difference. Just because we happen to have an exceptional kicker on the hottest of hot streaks is neither here nor there. Its just a route to scoring points. Over the 3 games we scored a whole one try less than the Australians with half the time in possession (and of course scored a lot more points -30+? I forget).

The Australians playing at home did do some things exceptionally well, especially the pretty things e.g. running the ball. Too often it was just side to side though. Lots of Australians were very impressed with that England team. The Twickenham game in a few months is going to be very tasty

Ta very much lost.

Well its frustrating as you well know, having England talked down after the Oz tour.

There have been plenty of times in the last 13 years when its been justified even though we have had some very good one off performances. Its not been sustained and there has been a fair amount of performances that were just not good enough. The Oz tour was exceptional because all 3 performances were consistently good and also seemed to promise that there is a lot more to come. We won't get a proper feel for the achievement until we see Australia in the RC, but its a good place to be right now.

Annoyingly I think we agree completely even at the fact I am pedantic and grudgingly accept i'm boring.

No 7&1/2 wrote:

lostinwales wrote:

No 7&1/2 wrote:

lostinwales wrote:

No 7&1/2 wrote:The difference was more than Farrell, we outplayed Aus for the majority of the tour.

pedantic and boring again *sigh....

Mentally we were tougher than the Australians. And whatever was said they coughed up penalty after penalty with three different referees. We didn't. That is the difference. Just because we happen to have an exceptional kicker on the hottest of hot streaks is neither here nor there. Its just a route to scoring points. Over the 3 games we scored a whole one try less than the Australians with half the time in possession (and of course scored a lot more points -30+? I forget).

The Australians playing at home did do some things exceptionally well, especially the pretty things e.g. running the ball. Too often it was just side to side though. Lots of Australians were very impressed with that England team. The Twickenham game in a few months is going to be very tasty

Ta very much lost.

Well its frustrating as you well know, having England talked down after the Oz tour.

There have been plenty of times in the last 13 years when its been justified even though we have had some very good one off performances. Its not been sustained and there has been a fair amount of performances that were just not good enough. The Oz tour was exceptional because all 3 performances were consistently good and also seemed to promise that there is a lot more to come. We won't get a proper feel for the achievement until we see Australia in the RC, but its a good place to be right now.

Annoyingly I think we agree completely even at the fact I am pedantic and grudgingly accept i'm boring.

Well I wasn't thinking of you when I said that. I was thinking there was something ironic about how those words were used (or rather who was using them)

Ah right. Ta. So at least not top of the list for those then!

I think Hogg is Scotland's best chance by some distance of being a starter.

Hogg,Watson and North would be an exciting back three.

As for outside centres - depends on the balance of the side.

I still thinking that the Lions are missing a well rounded centre who has leadership abilities like a BOD,Smith or Greenwood.

Will need to find someone. None of the current 13s really fit that yet. Good players but don't yet have that extra bit of class that makes them stand out IMO.

beshocked wrote:I think Hogg is Scotland's best chance by some distance of being a starter.

Hogg,Watson and North would be an exciting back three.

As for outside centres - depends on the balance of the side.

I still thinking that the Lions are missing a well rounded centre who has leadership abilities like a BOD,Smith or Greenwood.

Will need to find someone. None of the current 13s really fit that yet. Good players but don't yet have that extra bit of class that makes them stand out IMO.

Duncan Taylor?

TJ wrote:

beshocked wrote:I think Hogg is Scotland's best chance by some distance of being a starter.

Hogg,Watson and North would be an exciting back three.

As for outside centres - depends on the balance of the side.

I still thinking that the Lions are missing a well rounded centre who has leadership abilities like a BOD,Smith or Greenwood.

Will need to find someone. None of the current 13s really fit that yet. Good players but don't yet have that extra bit of class that makes them stand out IMO.

Duncan Taylor?

He's good but I wouldn't say he's shown he's ahead of the competition just yet.