I thought Kevin Browns performance was the key take away from today. We were a different team when he came on. Passing was crisper, timing was better and the moves we tried a few times in the first half suddenly started coming off. Evalds could be in for a wow of a season if Brown keeps putting him in gaps like that.
The pairing of Tui and Atkin looked as I expected it to. Not much creativity, none of the runners being put through gaps and the passing out wide near their line looked clunky. But it’s early days yet and they are both relatively young for half backs and Atkin still inexperienced. Atkin showed his real strength scoring his try, one of the best we got. His Back up play supporting Evalds’ break after Brown put him through was excellent and exciting for what might build in the season. Tui doesn’t looks as lean as he did last year. He wasn’t blowing and looked fit but he’s bulked up a bit.
I think to be fair Tui and Atkin has the toughest job - the first proper half of the season, no-one in their rhythm yet and the part timers at their fittest. So it’s no wonder we looked better as the game wore on. But I’m very impressed by Brown - his passing and kicking was streets ahead of anyone else.
Other than that - looked solid all round. Pack we’re impressive. Good debut for Yates. I esp liked his combination with Dudson, looked like it might pay dividends this year. Ikahifo very impressive. Jones didn’t look out of place when he came on.
Three quarters were all decent. Some of the passing was bit out early on but lots of new combinations. Welham was outstanding. Seems to be younger every year! Him or Brown were mom for me. Sarginson looked very good and got the actual mom award. Nice to see the newly installed mom trophy given out by Peter Smethurst’s son. Sio was quality. Inu a bit hit and miss but ok. Very impressed with Williams. Looked dangerous every time he got the ball. Kear looked good is his spell. Chamberlain was quiet.
Finally I thought Swinton were good. They defended well for the first hour, first 30 especially and I liked the way they kept the ball alive. The passes didn’t stick today but they asked our defence some real questions. I can imagine they will be good to watch in the championship this year