Leinster Team Talk/Gossip/Rumours Thread XI (The Finals Countdown)

sydthebeat · 15-05-2019 11:32am

awec wrote: »

It could be that Leinster are now reverting to a more normal team, with normal depth levels, and what you've enjoyed the past number of years is a freakish, exceptional period, rather than being the norm.

jesus i severely hope not....

ireland already have 3 normal teams who dont win anything, dont want to have a 4th

awec · 15-05-2019 11:32am

troyzer wrote: »

Being just like every other team isn't enough to win Europe. That's the problem.

Yes it is, it just means, like pretty much everyone else, you can't absorb a lot of injuries.

kingofthekong · 15-05-2019 11:39am

Leinster will be fine next season the players that they are loosing arent that much better then talent coming through

mcgrath is the biggest loss - other than that we arent losing much

Former Former · 15-05-2019 11:46am

Our depth is already the worst it's been for a few years. We needed quality replacements coming off the bench on Saturday and we just didn't have them. It's going to get worse next year, unless we see a real step up from some of the younger guys.

awec is right, we're at the tail end of an absolutely freakish run of talent emerging. In the last couple of years we've had genuine top-class players come through in Furlong, Ryan, VDF, Leavy and Ringrose, but we need more if we're to remain at the top level.

kingofthekong · 15-05-2019 11:59am

Our depth is great we have exeptional players in the academy and a lot of those guys would be making appearances for the other provinces already,

However there is always a gap that appears every couple of years when an established player who's been had the jersey leaves and theres the question of can the younger guy step up

Its the natural cycle of a club - and most clubs would buy in players to fill the gap - Leinster will use there academy to grow into those positions and that is why Leinster are one of the best clubs in the world

Shefwedfan · 15-05-2019 12:06pm

Former Former wrote: »

Our depth is already the worst it's been for a few years. We needed quality replacements coming off the bench on Saturday and we just didn't have them. It's going to get worse next year, unless we see a real step up from some of the younger guys.

awec is right, we're at the tail end of an absolutely freakish run of talent emerging. In the last couple of years we've had genuine top-class players come through in Furlong, Ryan, VDF, Leavy and Ringrose, but we need more if we're to remain at the top level.

The U20 just won a 6 nations with the majority of players coming from Leinster.

The likes of Harry Byrne etc will soon be pushing for a place in the Pro14 team....

Not sure where all the doom and gloom has come from after 1 loss....I havent heard anyone mention the player coming into the academy are suddenly a drop off from previous years. If anything people are saying they are more adapt and ready to start in first team than ever.....

Maybe a bit of positivity.....the games during the WC will give a good group of players a chance at getting a start, I hope to see a couple of gems coming next season

Squidgy Black · 15-05-2019 12:10pm

Leinster players named in the JWC squad, Charlie Ryan is the captain.

Declan Adamson
Ryan Baird
Tom Clarkson
Brian Deeny
John McKee
Michael Milne
Martin Moloney
Charlie Ryan
Charlie Ward
Ronan Watters
Cormac Foley
Adam LaGrue
Rob Russell
Liam Turner

irishbucsfan · 15-05-2019 12:11pm

The source of our incredible depth is still there. Nothing has changed. These things just ebb and flow because players aren’t produced at a consistent rate.

If there’s a drop off, and that certainly remains to be seen, then it’ll be temporary unless someone else develops an academy that can compete with Leinster

jacothelad · 15-05-2019 1:07pm

Former Former wrote: »

Our depth is already the worst it's been for a few years. We needed quality replacements coming off the bench on Saturday and we just didn't have them. It's going to get worse next year, unless we see a real step up from some of the younger guys.

awec is right, we're at the tail end of an absolutely freakish run of talent emerging. In the last couple of years we've had genuine top-class players come through in Furlong, Ryan, VDF, Leavy and Ringrose, but we need more if we're to remain at the top level.

I have thought since early in the season that Leinster had lost a bit of their edge over the previous ones. Players get jaded, get older, get injured and distracted and less able to perform the high octane stuff endlessly. They are still a top 2 or 3 team but the invincibility isn't there at the moment. Some players have looked good - eg. Toner has had a great run and Healy and Bob too but something isn't quite gelling. I am sure it will return but the RWC is coming at a bad time for the team. Players who have been running at 100% for 3 seasons don't need the pressure of the expectations of the World Cup. But it is what it is. Losing some older guys is what happens to every team. The hallmark of Leinster has been the ability to replace players. That will continue.

Success is cyclical. Not even Leinster can win everything every year. They need to take a breath and regroup and they will.

Clegg · 15-05-2019 1:13pm

I don't have many worries with regards to what's coming up through the academy. I've very high hopes for Penney, Byrne and Baird. Penney has already broken through to the senior ranks and Baird look to have that freakish physicality to play at a high level.

Then you've the guys that are slightly older in Deegan, Porter and Doris. Porter's already a Grand Slam winner and Deegan is right on the cusp of breaking through in the backrow. The bigger worry I'd have is other provinces poaching these lads.

Dubinusa · 15-05-2019 1:22pm

arsebiscuits1 wrote: »

Where did you see this?

Also, everyone lamenting about the perceived lack of imports is just completely disregarding the players we have in situ.

Conor O'Brien is a European standard player now

Ed Byrne is likely to get a cap this summer and will be first choice for all of the start of next season having gotten knock out rugby experience this season.

We can play JGP, Fardy and Lowe in the same team next season.

Frawley has another year of Pro14 rugby under his belt and will push on.

We have a super star in the making in Scott Penny who at 19 has already shown he's up to pro14 standard at least.

Jack Dunne looks ready to sieze his chance with Nagle and Kearney gone.

Doris and Deegan are another year older with both of them clearly up to it at mid European level

Yes we've lost some experience. But look at what is coming through. Any other club would absolutely murder to have these fellas knocking at the door.

If I had to choose between parachuting in a marquee because they've a few European caps or a young person whose grown up in the Leinster winning culture I know who'd I'd back 10 times out of 10

It's safe to say that Sexton is clearly on the downward spiral. He has played so little and has not reached the levels of previous years.
Ed Byrne imo, is not an international class prop. I think he's a good squad player. He's had a good season but, I think he's reached his level.
Tomane may not be as good as we think!
Lowe defensively is almost invisible. Larmour is learning on the fly, and he has improved. But he is not RK.
A Byrne is the same as Lowe defensively. Leavy may not return to full strenght.
All in all, we have a lot of question Mark's everywhere.

Shefwedfan · 15-05-2019 1:28pm

Dubinusa wrote: »

It's safe to say that Sexton is clearly on the downward spiral. He has played so little and has not reached the levels of previous years.
E

Based on what?

He was in cracking form right up to the injury at Christmas...probably playing some of his best rugby

Then the injury and I think we can all say he hasn't been right since then. I actually dont think he is fully fit. Maye close to it for the Toulouse game and he played well v Saracens.....

Sexton has only played the big match's for Leinster for years now anyway....he always has about 50% less minutes than the other 10's at Leinster.....Ross Byrne is a quality player. Frawley is showing promise but I think both of them might get jumped by Harry Byrne.....not a bad line up

Anyway, if Munster sign Pollard then we can take Joey back.....back to his proper home

scott1974 · 15-05-2019 1:31pm

Dubinusa wrote: »

It's safe to say that Sexton is clearly on the downward spiral. He has played so little and has not reached the levels of previous years.
Ed Byrne imo, is not an international class prop. I think he's a good squad player. He's had a good season but, I think he's reached his level.
Tomane may not be as good as we think!
Lowe defensively is almost invisible. Larmour is learning on the fly, and he has improved. But he is not RK.
A Byrne is the same as Lowe defensively. Leavy may not return to full strenght.
All in all, we have a lot of question Mark's everywhere.

You're right, winning the Champions Cup last week would have just papered over the cracks..

Shefwedfan · 15-05-2019 1:35pm

scott1974 wrote: »

You're right, winning the Champions Cup last week would have just papered over the cracks..

I think we just say it was good while it last and just head home....no point anymore

Exclamation Marc · 15-05-2019 1:48pm

Dubinusa wrote: »

It's safe to say that Sexton is clearly on the downward spiral. He has played so little and has not reached the levels of previous years.

The current world player of the year? Please. A dip in form is not a downward spiral.

Dubinusa · 15-05-2019 2:30pm

Exclamation Marc wrote: »

The current world player of the year? Please. A dip in form is not a downward spiral.

Current, but not this years! His age is getting up there. His injuries don't help. At this point, I think he's been sub par for the most part. It's likely that he's going into his last couple of seasons. I also think his role as captain has not helped him. But, it's my opinion. That's what I think.
As far as Leinster go, a good bit of game time for Frawley would be ideal. I agree that the Byrne brothers could be the future. Frawley could be an outstanding player also.

Exclamation Marc · 15-05-2019 2:42pm

Dubinusa wrote: »

Current, but not this years! His age is getting up there. His injuries don't help. At this point, I think he's been sub par for the most part. It's likely that he's going into his last couple of seasons. I also think his role as captain has not helped him. But, it's my opinion. That's what I think.
As far as Leinster go, a good bit of game time for Frawley would be ideal. I agree that the Byrne brothers could be the future. Frawley could be an outstanding player also.

I assume you're taking the p!ss or you have inordinate high standards.

Hes played 146 minutes of rugby for Leinster in 2019 and he's on a 'downward spiral'? Even in the three between his award and 2019 he played twice against Bath (wins) and against Munster.

It's hard to even consider the Ireland games for individual performances as it was error strewn left right and centre.

Shefwedfan · 15-05-2019 2:48pm

Dubinusa wrote: »

Current, but not this years! His age is getting up there. His injuries don't help. At this point, I think he's been sub par for the most part. It's likely that he's going into his last couple of seasons. I also think his role as captain has not helped him. But, it's my opinion. That's what I think.
As far as Leinster go, a good bit of game time for Frawley would be ideal. I agree that the Byrne brothers could be the future. Frawley could be an outstanding player also.

Until his injury he was just after helping his team to a win against NZ and 2 wins against Bath.....

What difference has the captain role made? he is always in the ref ear anyway? now he just has a reason to be :P:P:P

Does Frawley play 15? didnt he play 15? I have a feeling is the Byrne biys progress then Frawley could be move to 15.....

Exclamation Marc · 15-05-2019 2:52pm

Shefwedfan wrote: »

Until his injury he was just after helping his team to a win against NZ and 2 wins against Bath.....

What difference has the captain role made? he is always in the ref ear anyway? now he just has a reason to be :P:P:P

Does Frawley play 15? didnt he play 15? I have a feeling is the Byrne biys progress then Frawley could be move to 15.....

Frawley had played there a few times, mainly as the replacement 10 who has had to drop back due to injury or otherwise. He's looked very comfortable there!

arsebiscuits1 · 15-05-2019 2:56pm

Dubinusa wrote: »

It's safe to say that Sexton is clearly on the downward spiral. He has played so little and has not reached the levels of previous years.
Ed Byrne imo, is not an international class prop. I think he's a good squad player. He's had a good season but, I think he's reached his level.
Tomane may not be as good as we think!
Lowe defensively is almost invisible. Larmour is learning on the fly, and he has improved. But he is not RK.
A Byrne is the same as Lowe defensively. Leavy may not return to full strenght.
All in all, we have a lot of question Mark's everywhere.

You're actually laughably full of it mate.

Shefwedfan · 15-05-2019 2:59pm

Exclamation Marc wrote: »

Frawley had played there a few times, mainly as the replacement 10 who has had to drop back due to injury or otherwise. He's looked very comfortable there!

The old memory is going but I seemed to remember him at 15....might be option for back up if Kearney does head

Exclamation Marc · 15-05-2019 3:01pm

Shefwedfan wrote: »

The old memory is going but I seemed to remember him at 15....might be option for back up if Kearney does head

Sorry, I didn't phrase my post well at all. He was definitely playing 15, you're not wrong.

I meant to say he was on the bench as a replacement 10 but ended up playing replacement 15 for Kearney alright.

Squidgy Black · 15-05-2019 4:26pm

Exclamation Marc wrote: »

Sorry, I didn't phrase my post well at all. He was definitely playing 15, you're not wrong.

I meant to say he was on the bench as a replacement 10 but ended up playing replacement 15 for Kearney alright.

Frawley played mostly 12/15 with the U20s and in his first year of the academy with the As. I'd say with the likes of younger Byrne coming through the ranks he'll be used as a utility back over the next while.

Dubinusa · 15-05-2019 4:34pm

arsebiscuits1 wrote: »

You're actually laughably full of it mate.

Thanks

Dubinusa · 15-05-2019 4:36pm

Do you all think that Sexton will be a top level oh much longer?
I don't think he will! Age is a factor. Bowe and Trimble went south very quickly. Anyway, it's just my opinion. Love it or hate it.

joseywhales · 15-05-2019 5:10pm

His game does not depend on power and pace, so he should be able to continue for a few years, although if he starts dropping deeper to avoid injury, it could be argued that he will have lost his greatest asset.

He'll be around for a few years I imagine, unless he gets a big offer from France

Shefwedfan · 15-05-2019 5:40pm

Dubinusa wrote: »

Do you all think that Sexton will be a top level oh much longer?
I don't think he will! Age is a factor. Bowe and Trimble went south very quickly. Anyway, it's just my opinion. Love it or hate it.

Bowe and Trimble play on the wing.....a different position with different requirements

Even Trimble himself said he seen Stockdale in training and knew the gig was up

Bowe at the end had such a run of injurys for his long term future he was better giving it up, his knees etc had gone

Hardly a good comparison. Contepomi would be a better comparison

P.S. The kiss of death to any comment if when Henry Ford III clicks on the thanks, you know you are wrong then

swiwi_ · 15-05-2019 5:41pm

Exclamation Marc wrote: »

Lowe is an incredible attacker but his defence varies between very competent and poor.

He's a lot more dangerous on the fringes and I think he'd be wasted as a 15. I think the 11 jersey is his

Lowe is crap anywhere but 11. In particular the couple of times I saw him play at 15, well, he was poison, not even AIL level...

errlloyd · 15-05-2019 5:44pm

I thought Jlowe was very effectively carrying at first near the ruck. He should play seven

Shefwedfan · 15-05-2019 5:51pm

Not sure why we would try and convert one of our best wingers into a 15......how many games in a row has Larmour got at 15? has he even got 2 yet?

Not sure why we are writing him off? if it is based on the Ireland v Argentina match I think we need to look at the wingers for that match who provided no support to Larmour, they played likeRob was at 15

Clegg · 15-05-2019 6:12pm

errlloyd wrote: »

I thought Jlowe was very effectively carrying at first near the ruck. He should play seven

I like it.

We missed a trick not converting SoB to inside centre years ago.

jacothelad · 15-05-2019 6:15pm

Dubinusa wrote: »

Do you all think that Sexton will be a top level oh much longer?
I don't think he will! Age is a factor. Bowe and Trimble went south very quickly. Anyway, it's just my opinion. Love it or hate it.

And ROG and dHumph.

Exclamation Marc · 15-05-2019 11:52pm

https://twitter.com/leinsterrugby/status/1128791117087039489?s=19

Incredible achievement. What a player.

16-05-2019 11:05am

Exclamation Marc wrote: »

https://twitter.com/leinsterrugby/status/1128791117087039489?s=19

Incredible achievement. What a player.

And still only 22 :eek:

errlloyd · 16-05-2019 2:11pm

Ah lads, Fogarty interviewed on Baz and Andrew's house of rugby. And he seems genuinely gutted they lost because of letting the fans down. He says it a bunch of times, and sounds really genuine about it. Gonna miss him.

troyzer · 17-05-2019 10:10am

errlloyd wrote: »

Ah lads, Fogarty interviewed on Baz and Andrew's house of rugby. And he seems genuinely gutted they lost because of letting the fans down. He says it a bunch of times, and sounds really genuine about it. Gonna miss him.

Yeah, it did come across that way.

To be fair, the clear message from Leinster HQ seems to be "Do it for the fans". It's leaking out of everything the players and coaches are saying to press this week.

Dubinusa · 17-05-2019 3:05pm

Not sure if VDF is the right call for the semi. He's bound to be rusty and lacks game time.

Clegg · 17-05-2019 3:37pm

I've no problem with VdF starting. He's the one player you know has done everything possible to get himself in top condition for this game. He's an incredible athlete.

sydthebeat · 17-05-2019 3:57pm

if munster think the can over power us with tight ball carriers then VDF is the perfect 7 to have in there. he will get off the line quick and tackle all day and brings them down very quickly.

Former Former · 17-05-2019 5:01pm

Dubinusa wrote: »

Not sure if VDF is the right call for the semi. He's bound to be rusty and lacks game time.

The alternative is either Ruddock or Deegan playing out of position at 7. Not an awful prospect but this way, VDF gets a bit of game time and should be primed for the final, if we get there.

thebaz · 17-05-2019 11:58pm

Dubinusa wrote: »

Current, but not this years! His age is getting up there. His injuries don't help. At this point, I think he's been sub par for the most part.

strange - I thought sexton had a near perfect first half of the season , a dip in form since Christmas but to suggest he's been sub par for most of the season , is beyond nonsense - after a good rest I think he'll be more than invaluable to any Irish WC challenge .

Dubinusa · 18-05-2019 4:36pm

Dubinusa wrote: »

Not sure if VDF is the right call for the semi. He's bound to be rusty and lacks game time.

Disregard the statement above. I am not a smart man!

kmart6 · 18-05-2019 4:54pm

Dubinusa wrote: »

Not sure if VDF is the right call for the semi. He's bound to be rusty and lacks game time.

Lol

KH25 · 18-05-2019 5:00pm

Dubinusa wrote: »

Dubinusa wrote: »

Not sure if VDF is the right call for the semi. He's bound to be rusty and lacks game time.

Disregard the statement above. I am not a smart man!

To be fair, you were applying human standards to him. He’s not human.

Completely missed the match because of an exam, but i am enjoying some of the comments in the match thread :-D

Wexforllion · 18-05-2019 5:03pm

Leinsters best

baas baa · 18-05-2019 5:05pm

Am fairly confident for next week, if Leinster maintain the intensity of the past 2 weeks they should win. Should be a great occasion for an Irish rugby team getting to play a final in Celtic Park so wouldn't have too many worries about players being able to lift themselves for one last performance.

18-05-2019 5:33pm

That was very pleasing.

What a difference VdF makes. Streets ahead of SOB these days. Such a shame last weekend was a weekend too soon.

Burkie1203 · 18-05-2019 5:34pm

Wesley Hissing Devil wrote: »

That was very pleasing.

What a difference VdF makes. Streets ahead of SOB these days. Such a shame last weekend was a weekend too soon.

Such a shame that chance last week didn't fall to the front row

scott1974 · 18-05-2019 5:48pm

Any word on big Dev... Cant imagine he'll play next weekend.

sydthebeat · 18-05-2019 5:53pm

scott1974 wrote: »

Any word on big Dev... Cant imagine he'll play next weekend.

He Walked into the huddle at the end...

But still

Dont expect him for next weekend

Leinster Team Talk/Gossip/Rumours Thread XI (The Finals Countdown)

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