2024 Squad - Speculation Thread

[Transiting]

Pretty sure Orr is solely a LHP. With Wagner (called up to Aus A), Hancock (just extended when his contract wasn't up), Pearce (Aus U20), and Rebolo (plays both sides), I don't see the need.

[Tazzmania]

Christy Doran reporting Harry Hoopert may be on his way west.

Still a young loosehead prop (24), that was out with an ACL injury last year.

At 1.93 m and 111 kg a decent size body.

Just short of 50 Super rugby caps and 3 appearance for Australia A. Will be a decent pick up to boost our front row if Christie is on the mark again, which he seems to have a good record of being lately

[Burgs]

I'll defer to those who have played there, but surely a big lump like that could put in the off/pre-season to convert to TH?
I appreciate LH & TH are not the same role, but enough overlap to start the process?
No one actually is predestined to be a (pro) TH, they all have to put in the hard yards.

[Tazzmania]

Thanks to Chat GPT here is some information on the two types of props and why they are different:

Being a tighthead prop in rugby is often considered more challenging than being a loosehead prop due to a combination of factors related to scrummaging technique, physical demands, and strategic responsibilities. Here are some reasons why being a tighthead prop is generally considered tougher:

Scrum Technique and Stability: The tighthead prop (wearing jersey number 3) binds on the side of the scrum where the opposition hooker is. This means the tighthead has less support and must provide greater stability during the scrum engagement. Their role is crucial in preventing the scrum from collapsing or being pushed backward.

Pressure and Angle: Tightheads have to withstand immense pressure from both the opposing loosehead prop and the hooker, as well as the full force of the opposition's push. They must angle their body and engage with precise timing to ensure the scrum remains stable and maintains forward momentum.

Versatility and Strength: Tightheads are required to be versatile players, possessing both the strength of a powerful scrummager and the agility of a dynamic loose forward. They need to be solid in the set-piece while also contributing to open play and tackling effectively.

Binding and Stability: Tighthead props need to bind tightly to both the loosehead prop and the hooker, creating a strong and stable front row unit. This requires exceptional upper body strength and technique to withstand the forces exerted during scrummaging.

Engagement Laws and Refereeing: The laws surrounding scrum engagements often place more responsibility on the tighthead prop to maintain a stable and straight scrum. Any mistakes in timing or technique can lead to penalties, free kicks, or even yellow cards.

Adaptation to Opponents: Tightheads often face different challenges and techniques from various opposition teams and props, requiring them to constantly adapt their approach and tactics.

Physical Demands: While both prop positions demand considerable physicality, tightheads often experience greater fatigue due to the specific demands of their role within the scrum. The constant pushing, engagement, and grinding in scrums can lead to exhaustion.

Set-Piece Dominance: The scrum is a crucial area for asserting dominance and gaining a strategic advantage. Tighthead props have a direct impact on a team's ability to secure their own ball and disrupt the opposition's ball, making their role vital for overall team success.

While being a loosehead prop is also physically demanding and requires technical expertise, the positioning and responsibilities of a tighthead prop add an extra layer of complexity to their role. Both positions are essential for a well-functioning scrum and team, and their specific challenges contribute to the unique nature of rugby's forward pack.

[Garry Owen]

Christy Doran reporting Harry Hoopert may be on his way west.

Still a young loosehead prop (24), that was out with an ACL injury last year.

At 1.93 m and 111 kg a decent size body.

Just short of 50 Super rugby caps and 3 appearance for Australia A. Will be a decent pick up to boost our front row if Christie is on the mark again, which he seems to have a good record of being lately

Great signing if true

[GIGS20]

Great signing if true

Christy Doran has a pet RA employee who considers it his role to feed Christy the good oil. I'm pretty confident it's true.

[WFDom]

22yo Twins from Botswana who went to school in Grahamstown, Eastern Cape.
Both about 1.8m and 106 kg. (weight looks like old data as look bigger in pics)

Bame and Basi Malesu who have been with Pau (FRA) for 3 years.
No stats so they don't appear to have played in Top 14.

Also announced: https://all.rugby/transfers/logs/

Linked as Academy player at:
https://all.rugby/transfers/super-ru...xz4mKdcBFaidRI
Isn't 22yo is too old for the Academy? WTG?

[todd4]

New Signing announced tomorrow
Can you guess who our newest signing is? All will be revealed tomorrow at 8am.

�� He is just 20 years old
�� He scored his first try at HBF Park
�� He doesn't drink coffee
�� He is a fan of country music
��He made his Super Rugby debut this season

[wholetruth]

New Signing announced tomorrow
Can you guess who our newest signing is? All will be revealed tomorrow at 8am.

�� He is just 20 years old
�� He scored his first try at HBF Park
�� He doesn't drink coffee
�� He is a fan of country music
��He made his Super Rugby debut this season

Marley Pearce.

[Burgs]

Marley Pearce.

Adds up... the curve ball being his birthday today...

[WFDom]

Marley Pearce.

Marley's going alright!

......apart from not drinking coffee & liking country music

(just jokes country fans & caffeine haters)

[todd4]

Marley's going alright!

......apart from not drinking coffee & liking country music

(just jokes country fans & caffeine haters)

You wouldn't make that joke in a small town...

[.X.]

I Dont drink Coffee

[Tazzmania]

Confirmed its Marley:

Rising through the WA ranks earning his first professional contract, local product Marley Pearce signs a two-year deal with the Western Force.

Read More

[The InnFORCEr]

And that makes 30 signed to main squad