I think this is the first thing Burgess has done in terms of selection that I find genuinely mystifying and massively disappointing. It's almost Powell-like in its attitude (can't believe I'm saying that) towards a talented young player. As you say, Leyland must be thinking why have I come here.

Genuinely can't get my head round hating one of our own players.



Anyway hope Leyland has a good game, Sam has made all our bellyaching look daft.

I thought the same seeing the way some people talk about Ratchford, he's been a great servant and doesn't warrant such vitriol.

I didn't see any vitriol? Just people passing opinion on his selection. I think most people would regard Ratchford warmly.

Not sure saying someone is 'haunting the 17' is a particularly warm sentiment.

And in fairness you’d be right in my personal opinions towards Ratchford. IMO he’s been drastically overrated as a rugby league player throughout his career and, as such, has cost us on many occasions….also heard a few things that go against his ‘nice guy’ image.