In 2014 Wests Tigers will boldly head in a new direction! A direction in which it seems there are more unanswered questions than sureties in its path. Gone is the mercurial marquee man in Benji Marshall, the man who unofficially became the identity of which Wests Tigers were known by. Replaced now by an identity that is basically unknown to this point.
Not all has become unknown though at Camp Concord. For an identity that will develop in 2014, there are a fair few familiar names throughout the roster in 2014. Seasoned veterans led by Captain Robbie Farah, Adam Blair, Liam Fulton Braith Anasta and Keith Galloway return, They're complimented by an experienced list including Chris Lawrence and Aaron Woods. The biggest talking point though will come from the return of two players from the 2005 premiership winning class, with Pat Richards and Dene Halatau returning to the club.
The return of Richards and Halatau is more significant than it may appear on the surface. The return of the experienced duo is as much about what they can bring on the field as it is what they bring off the field. They are both known for their high levels of professionalism off field and on field. In a season where the Tigers squad will contain less experience than ever before, finding the right kind of experience is critical. The example that the likes of Halatau, Richards, Farah and any of the older heads in the squad decide to set will reflect on those of the younger players in the squad.
The examples set for the younger brigade will be key for a reason. There is serious potential throughout the younger players at Wests Tigers. Potential is an often frowned upon term, It does exist though, and if that potential is nurtured carefully and correctly then it can lead to very positive results. The Tigers will boast again one of the youngest squads in 2014 and their top 17 will feature a fair smattering of youth on a week to week basis.
Halfback Luke Brooks will command the most scrutiny as the young buck who looks to take control of the halves in the departure of Benji Marshall. Tim Simona and David Nofoaluma were mightily impressive in the second half of 2013 and Tigers fans have every confidence that the talented duo can continue their NRL education with further positive results. Fullback James Tedesco and back rower Sauaso Sue were dependable and showed toughness in their debut season's. They also both showed some class to get excited about for their futures.
Furthermore, Curtis Sironen will surely make his anticipated move to the backrow, a move which potentially adds another dimension to the Tigers game. All the different dimension's in the Tigers squad will all rely on the leadership, experience and mentoring of the likes of Richards, Farah, Halatau and Anasta. Their importance here cannot be overstated! And just like 2004 had similarities with 2013 - in terms of rebuilding, new coaches and even the win/loss ratio. The question will be. Can Wests Tigers turn the competition on its head once more? Can 2014 be the new 2005??
It's highly unlikely but it's safe to say that with the talent at hand, the Tigers should fare better in 2014.
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