LeagueNews.co | Jess Malloy
Phil Gould, the Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs boss, has issued a significant warning to the NSW Blues regarding their selection of Spencer Leniu for State of Origin Game One.
He expressed his belief that Leniu's services are not needed for the match, stating, "I like Spencer, but I don't always buy the idea that you need a 10-minute impact player off the bench in Origin," during an appearance on Wide World of Sports' Six Tackles With Gus.
Gould elaborated on the potential consequences of including a player like Leniu, suggesting that it could drastically alter the team's dynamics if injuries or suspensions occur.
He emphasized, "[If you get] two HIAs and a sin bin or a send off, the complexion of your team changes dramatically straight away." Furthermore, he pointed out that Leniu has never demonstrated the capability to perform as a 70 or 80-minute player at the club level, let alone in the high-stakes environment of Origin.
This perspective is likely to resonate with Sydney Roosters fans, as it raises crucial considerations for the Blues' coach in finalizing the Game One selections.