I wasn't convinced about Bateman in the centres initially but I'd keep him there for the foreseeable now before transitioning him to LF as he bulks up a bit and Lockers is phased out. Best way to keep him, Joel and Faz on the pitch for 80 mins.

I think he's even better in the second row, but yes sacrificing a bit of his game to keep Farrell and Tomkins on the field alongside him is probably wise.

I honestly don't think Manfredi would look out of place at test level, the kid has it all. Charnley is lucky Burgess is going, because I don't think he'd get in the side if he wasn't.

Agree with the comments about these 2. Especially Manfredi. If ever a player gets a start for the final on merit its this mon.

I've just worked out that if we win, Gildart will be the youngest player to start in a Grand Final victory (Ward was a few months younger when be came off the bench for Leeds in 2012)

Huge, huge test for Gildart on Saturday coming up against Watkins. I'm pretty sure they will throw a lot at him.

It could be make or break for us that one. I feel the hype Watkins gets is a little OTT but I still rate him as the best centre in superleague.



If Gildart can break even in that battle we'll be in a solid place.

It's a big ask. He's shown he's not short on confidence or commitment. But he'll sure need his A game next weekend.

If Manfredi continues at the rate he is progressing he will become a superstar. Gildart still has a lot to learn but looks very comfortable in the first team. For those who think him too small to play in the centres I would say this; he will fill out as he gets older and as long as he retains and improves his technical abilities he will be fine. His leg driving speed in the tackle, even against larger opponents, is mighty impressive.

Manfredi's finishing in tight situations reminds me of Ryan Hall (although with a different technique). He's so strong and determined and he's going to get better and better.



Not many players make a mug of Ryan Hall in the air like he did for his try in the Grand Final.

Does anyone think Manfredi would make a great back up/impact hooker?

I honestly think he could play any position on the field bar 6 or 7