Crusher’s verdict
sportRugby League27 Jan 09 @ 02:42pm by JOHN GRECO
HE’S one of the shrewdest judges when it comes to spotting rugby league talent, and Noel “Crusher†Cleal is convinced Manly’s 2009 recruits will help keep the club at the forefront of the NRL Premiership.
Cleal has been keeping a close eye on the Sea Eagles’ four major recruits as the club continues to step up its training ahead of their premiership defence.
Cleal believes Chris Bailey, Shane Rodney, Tony Williams and young Trent Hodkinson are ideal acquisitions for next season.
And it looks like the most interesting tussle will be in the forwards, with both Bailey and Rodney facing tough challenges to break into Manly’s imposing pack.
“We’ve got a lot of depth in the club, particularly in the back row,†Cleal said.
“I’m excited about what (Bailey’s) going to do under the coaching he’ll get here.
“I like his versatility. He’s got size, bulk, speed and good skills as well.
“His pre-season training has been really good ... he takes no short cuts.â€Â
Neither does Rodney, who is attempting to resurrect his first-grade career after three seasons plagued by injury.
“Shane’s had a tough time but he’s shown good character to keep coming back,†Crusher said.
“He’s got that toughness about him and I see him playing the Willo (Luke Williamson) role because he can fill a number of positions.
“I don’t see why he can’t get back to the level that saw him play rep footy.â€Â
There’s been a lot of excitement around the acquisition of Williams and Cleal believes the youngster, nicknamed “T-Rexâ€Â, will be a huge asset.
“It might take Tony a bit of time to find his feet but he’s got everything,†Cleal said.
“He’s only a pup but I think he’s going to be a real strike weapon.â€Â
Cleal believes young halfback Trent Hodkinson can be a star of the future.
“He’ll blossom under Des (Hasler) and Dennis (Moore) and it won’t hurt getting pointers from Ox (Orford),†Cleal said.