Gareth Jenkins rolls the dice

Well here we go again. Another weekend of games and another chance to see whether Gareth Jenkins can get either a win, a try or a performance or whether he is in for another week of criticism. In a fashion which we have become to associate with France’s ‘mad professor,’ Bernard Laporte, we see he has made seven changes for the game this weekend.
And I have to say that looking at the teamsheet, Im smiling. It looks like a more rounded team and I finally think we have a team which can pose a threat. With Shane Williams and Mark Jones on the wings and a pack which can provide the backs with some ball, I think we may finally cross the white line after 160 minutes of trying. Who says persistence doesn’t pay off!!!!
Not only do we have the fliers on the outside by thankfully we have some solidity in midfield with the large figure of Shanklin helping out Hook. Yes it is a risk to play him, seeing though he has had no game time recently but it is a risk that needs to be taken. He provides physicality and most of all experience and after watching Wale’s so called performance against the Scots, that is something we lacked. We looked lost and confused and while Bumface will be quick to point out that that is the way all Welsh people look, its not something we as a nation expect from our Rugby team.
In regards to Gareth Jenkins, well I feel for him. I don’t deny that he has not shown the greatest management skills however it is hard for him with the lack of depth in his squad to pick a team to challenge for the championship. He has enough players literally, but in terms of form and fitness, theres not a lot to choose from. If one of the back three were to get injured, the only fit cover is Cjeka, who lets face it, has been less than good!!! Jones is not performing but if he were to be replaced by Hook, that would mean that there would be need for a centre and Henson is no where near fit or on form.
But hopefully Wales will put in a performance this weekend. That is what I want to see. A performance to be proud of. France will let us play and I hope we take that opportunity and put them under pressure. Wales has one of the best records out of anyone in Paris over the last few years with 3 wins out of 4. I just hope that statistic gives the boyos more inspiration than they had that dreadful day in Murrayfield two weekends ago.