Some coaches can take an "average" group of players and turn them into a team greater than the sum of its parts. I don't think either Macnamara or Potter can do this. Or to be fair, even Noble. Noble had quality players throughout the team and coached them well. It's a lot harder to coach a "poor" team to play better.

think you just hit the nail well and truly on the head

Not many coaches can inspire an average team to over achieve. The only one I remember is Sir Peter Fox who managed it time and again.

Graham Murray managed it at Leeds, turning the likes of Andy Hay, Ryan Sheridan and Darren Fleary into GB internationals (SL has to be improving if players of their ilk are kept away from England jerseys!). John Kear's teams always punch above their weight, but rarely on a consistent basis. Michael Maguire and Wayne Bennett are other obvious examples.

I agreed with you right up to this point. Did you think Wigan over-achieved last year? TBH I always thought Bennett has had pretty good squads at his disposal with Broncos and St George.

gotta wonder if theres an element among the players who got away with less than 100% effort under macca (as has been mentioned in press by other players last year) who are now finding it a bit tougher under a coach whos reputed to take less of the matey matey approach?.

Just a thought!. We are being coached by an ex-fullback and two ex-wingers. Who coaches the forwards? One idea, bring in Karl Fairbank part time. He is doing a good job for Elland and knows how to coach forwards. he would also have the respect of all the players.

Except LSH was a hooker or back rower wasn't he? His brother was a winger.

Correct he was a hooker

Sorry, I can only remember a St Hilaire being a winger. So who did LSH play for and was he any good?

Castleford? and crap?

He currently plays 13 at St Josephs in Pennine League