3 props in a 17 man squad is not how we play when we are at our best. This together with so many players who are not match fit could be our Achilles heel. Sincerely hope I'm wrong but I think the players coming back could be too late for this game and more importantly for me for our chances in SL.

The other option is Bateman could start in place of ISA.



That would mean we have FPN and Sutton as starting props, T and Joel on Bench as replacement props and ISA To give lockers a 20 minute breather either side of HT.



4 props of FPN, Sutton, T and Joel would be ok.

I think Bateman has to start if he's fit. If there's the slightest doubt around Tomkins, then I think it could be a massive risk playing him. Hope i'm proven wrong though...

The only doubts would be around match fitness you'd think. I cannot see them taking any sort of risk with the injury so fingers crossed they'll be able to get him through the game. We need Tomkins the most imo because Tierney is no fullback. If they don't think Tomkins is ready but Gelling is then they need to look at another option at the back.

Been informed (take it as you wish, I am) that Bateman will be playing Sat, but there is still some doubt about S Tomkins, so wouldn't be surprised if he missed out. As someone has already said if he's not 100% don't risk him.

If Tomkins is not ready Budgy to full back and Davies on the wing with Gelling.

If Sam does play, we'll need fullback cover on the bench as it's unlikely he'll be match fit enough to play the full 80. Whether that's Tierney, or juggling things around a lot with a second row to centre, a centre to wing, and a winger to fullback...

Maybe play him off the bench. If Tierney is having a mare he can come on at FB, otherwise we have the option to bring him in the halves with Leuluai moving to to give McIlorum a breather as we used to do in 2010/11 with Deacon on the bench

If Tomkins is not fit dont play him and leave Tierney out needs a rest must be carrying a knock, we have two centres back now and three wings one of the wingers to full back.

Is Powell out?

No, he's back, it was "only" concussion.

No problem with this if Tomkins is not fit but I'd leave Tierney out because carrying a knock or not, he's been bloody awful and not good enough.