Key bit of luck we need is Sexton, Henshaw, Keenan and Ringers coming through unscathed v Scotland and England. Feel we have lots of cover for the pack and on the wing for example but we are light in the centre slots and Sexton is still the daddy at 10.Ruckedtobits wrote: ↑March 9th, 2021, 2:46 pmWe don't have that as an option, given that we have 15 in Irish Camp and a number of others on the treatment couch.mildlyinterested wrote: ↑March 9th, 2021, 2:06 pm I'd send play an almost A side the next two weeks, then mix and match for Munster/Toulon with the hope of having our strongest 23 for exeter away.
IMO, while Europe will be our priority, Leocaster understand that the effect of beating Munster and putting a pot on the sideboard will be worth a few points in our performance at home against Toulon.
Look at it from the other end of the telescope, if we select a Squad which is too weak to be competitive in a final, at home, against Munster, what can the quality of preparation be like on Sunday, Monday and Tuesday in a week we face Toulon for a Europeean Q/F place?
Munster could well have four starters in the pack against England, subject to form against the Scots and injuries. It would not be a huge surprise to see Kilcoyne, Byrne, PO'M & CJ in the starting lineup.
Were that to happen, I'd have no concern starting the Pro14 Final with Healy, Kelleher, Furlong / Porter, Dev, Fardy / Baird and JVdF/ Penny / Connors, Conan / Doris, Ruddock with each of the alternates on the bench. Luke & Ross B as starting half-backs and Larmour, Keenan, Lowe in the back three.
Our midfield would be my concern depending on injuries and workload in English game. Henshaw and Ringrose are thoroughbreds and with luck could get through 5 games on the bounce, but I wouldn't like to chance it. Possibly Frawley & RO'L to start against Munster with possibly Ringrose on the bench with Dave Kearney & JGP.
Overall, I believe that Leo will give the Final a big go. Pots are for winning. What can be counted can be managed. Dealing with lost opportunites requires far more sweat and inspiration.
If they do we can mix and match a bit v Munster & Toulon (with bench cover) and get through this thing.