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Bulldogs-Fab five
Fab five....Flokes will expect plenty from his pack. Pic: Kristi Miller Bulldogs By Cornell van der Heijden with Wires THE early season signs are not looking good for the Bulldogs. Thrashed by New Zealand Warriors 36-6 pre-season, and with continuing controversy surrounding Mark O'Meley's future, Steve Folkes has plenty to consider. The Bulldogs gained more than they lost on the transfer market in the off season, and on paper at least, the Dogs look to have most positions well covered. Points machine Hazim El Masri can again be counted upon to turn four pointers into six pointers with greater regularity than most of his fellow goal kickers, while Trent Cutler, Luke Patten, Willie Tonga and Matt Utai will provide the flair. The pack looks like the more pressing concern. Despite the presence of big names such as Sonny Bill Williams, Mark O'Meley, Andrew Ryan and Willie Mason, a few of the pups in the squad will need to forge a reputation of their own to support the stars. As usual, injuries and representative matches will take their toll, and the performances of their replacements will be critical to the club's cuccess. Williams' decision to re-sign with the Dogs was a huge boost for the club in the week leading up to the season-opener. Ryan refused to push the panic button after the pre-season Warriors walloping, and the Dogs will be there or therabouts, but some must be quietly wondering whether Folkes has enough depth to produce a premiership winner 2007. Key Player: Sonny Bill Williams Injury has slowed the Kiwi international's development as one of the game's superstars. But after a complete pre-season for the first time in a few years, SBW is determined to make up for lost time. One of the most damaging ball runners in the game and an even bigger hitter in defence. Has all the attributes - size, speed, strength and skills - to become a regular match-winner. One to watch: Reni Maitua The Bulldogs "Mr Fix-it" is keen to make the lock position his own in 2007. Gained Australia Test selection for the Tri-Nations series last season and many expect the 24 year old to kick on from there. He's a gifted ball-player and - with maturity - could develop into one of the NRL's premiere running back rowers. With AAP Source: http://www.foxsports.com.au/league/bulldogs |