For me, this year should be about establishing a stable structure and in particular a solid spine. The win/loss ratio is meaningless this year IMHO and finals is far from the realistic 2008 benchmark. While we still remain relatively injury free and finaly have some much needed depth and competition for places as a result, I would much rather prefer TW test out players in roles/positions in the first half of the year and then try and play a consistent line up for the remainder of the year.
One of the complaints that was leveled at our team last year was out lack of support for each other and unselfish play. I believe a big reason for this was that many young players were looking to claim a position in the team and thus were looking to get the ball in their hands as much as possible rather than laying the shepperd or doing the team thing. Also our players were, and still are in many instances, unfamiliar with how each other plays and how to best work together. The best way to create a team and have them play FOR each other is to have consistancy but first you have to find the best 22 players!
I struggle with the idea that TW should even feel pressure this year that he may lose his position as head coach this year. Regardless of what you think of him personally, we desperately need consistency and we deperately need to keep focused on the plan.
Right or wrong we need to see our rebuilding through and sacking TW this year even if we have another year like last, would only do us harm. If you bring in another coach now they will have to suffer through this time in our development just the same as TW is right now.
Let TW take the hits and let TW suffer through this tough time while the young players are allowed the space to develop because he has the media skills to hold back the tide.
If TW is willing to do the hard yards now and attempt to rebuild the list while knowingly laying his reputation on the line then I think it is only right to let TW see out his contract to see if in 2009 he has built a strong list. Even if you believe TW should go, terminating our coaches contract early will only help support the stereotype that we eat our own and only be detrimental to our chances of securing an excellent replacement. So regardless TW needs to see out his contract for the club, him and us.
But....If we can not make the finals in 2009 then I agree with Jackstar, it will be time for TW to go and for us to find a new coach.
I hope TW can justify my loyalty.
Stripes