Not starting your best scrummaging props with Aki in the midfield could be a disaster, as well - there's gonna be a lot of scrums
This is key, Aki has been asked to be a ball player on tour, and he has hands like shovels, Tuipilotu is far superior there.
I think Farrell has a very clear gameplan, with Aus returning BIG men from injuries, he's expecting them to fall off a cliff after 60 mins, the addition of Genge, Ryan and Morgan are energy needed they lacked last week (although I personally would have gone Cummings).
The problem with this game plan, is that it pretty much gives up the tight 5 dominance it had last week in the first half, at the first sight of some beef. I dont like that, I would want my tight 5 to put it on this new look (ish) pack from minute 1, Genge IMO was probably the best player on the park 1st 40, and id have preferred him to start.
My other big concern, is that Farell on the bench pretty much kills the backline, if he's asked to play 10 we lose creativity, if 12 we lose the go forward. Im not Marcus Smith fan, but at least he gives you a creative outlet late on if chasing the game, Farrell only manages the game from a 9 point lead onwards IMO.
If the Lions tighten up, and make collisions the order of the day, instead of the intricate wider plays, I think the lions finish too strong for Aus, but if the Aus pack can stay on their feet, conserve energy, and go after that 12 pivot through Mcreight and Valetini, I think it'll be a long day at the office.
Im worried Farrell has ****** this selection up, Kelleher deserved dropping, Genge didnt, Ryan hasn't been good, and whats the point bringing Morgan on for Curry on 60 mins?
Farrell on the bench rubs me up the wrong way, I defended his selection for driving standards, but to make the 1st possible Test squad is frustrating.
Let's not touch upon the back 3, who were poor with an armchair ride last week, I expect Aus to see that as a chink, and to bombard them with high balls, and work field position.
