Quote ="bren2k"I'm fully on board with the idea that Powell has crafted a team that is significantly more than the sum of its parts; but I'd contest that Luke Gale & Ben Roberts are standalone exceptional players who'd get into most SL sides.
The list of non-exceptional players who execute their role in a well drilled side is extensive; McKeeken, Minikin, Eden, Webster, Shenton, Springer, Hardaker, McShane for starters - and several of those for whom it isn't too late, could go on to become exceptional. Four of five just from that list will be targets for the traditionally perceived 'bigger' clubs in future seasons, as will Powell himself; keeping what he's created there intact and on top, will be a real challenge.
Cas are an exceptionally well coached and well trained side, with a fantastic team spirit and a brilliant attitude to open, attacking rugby - with sufficient dog in them to do the dirty stuff when required; lots to admire, as much as it hurts. I hope they win on Saturday.'"
I suppose it's what you call exceptional. To me it's a very short list.
To me Sam Burgess was the last exceptional player we produced then before him Ellis then Farrell and Sculthorpe. I may have missed a few but you get the idea. World class is what I call them, the best around.
Hardaker isn't anywhere near but you didn't drop that particular clanger.
Roberts, he's classy not exceptional.
Gale is the interesting one. If he keeps his form up and repeats it next season and at International level then yes I'd agree. He's certainly not far off.
To me he's the only possible exceptional player they have, I can't imagine anyone they could replace him with that's for sure. I can with Roberts.
There may be a few others in the making at Cas I don't know but it needs to be judged long term.
As I say it's whatever your idea of exceptional is, mines pretty strict.
A long career, total consistency, a master of your position, a genuine international, a game breaker and a match winner.
If it helps the only one we have had at Wakefield in my time was Solomona. Bell never pushed himself, Ellis was at the start of his career and Ray Price at the end.
