Stuart Fielden

[AdamMac]

Out for 2 to 3 months. Another blow this. Let's not forget that we didn't lose a match last season when we had 4 specialist props in the 17.

Mason ready to rumble
Published on Wednesday 9 March 2011 10:35


WILLIE Mason is looking forward to tussling with Wigan’s Stuart Fielden again – but he may have to wait.


The former Australia Test forward was unveiled to a media circus at Hull KR yesterday.

One of the game’s most colourful and controversial figures, Mason is remembered for knocking out Great Britain prop Fielden with a single punch during the 2006 Tri Nations Series in Sydney.

The pair have not gone head-to-hear since that competition. And Mason – who has a two-year-deal with the Robins – is looking forward to a rematch during club colours later this year.

He said: “Stuart’s a goer, he’s a very proud man and I’m pretty sure he wants to square up and play as hard as he can with me. I’m looking forward to it.

“I won’t take a backward step against anyone, regardless of whether it’s Stuart Fielden or any English players.”

Wigan first face Hull KR at Craven Park on April 15 – but Fielden is unlikely to figure after undergoing surgery to a troubling knee problem.

Fielden had already had two ‘clean-outs’ during the off-season, but with the problem still not resolved, he went for an operation on Monday afternoon. Michael Maguire said the worst case scenario was that the 31-year-old will be out for three months – but the coach is hopeful it will be closer to two.

Either way, Fielden would appear to be out of the reckoning for the match against Mason’s Hull KR in five weeks’ time. And he faces a race against time to be fit for the return encounter, at the DW Stadium, on May 30.

If Fielden is not back in time, the pair may have to wait until 2012 for their ‘rematch’ – unless Wigan and Hull KR meet in the Challenge Cup or play-offs.

Maguire admitted it was a blow to lose a player of Fielden’s experience and calibre, particularly with Australians Brett Finch and Pat Richards also currently sidelined.

It leaves him with just three front-line specialist props – Andy Coley, Jeff Lima and Paul Prescott – although back-rower Lee Mossop has also been operating in the front-row this season.

With injury-hit Eamon O’Carroll showing no signs of returning to full fitness, Fielden’s absence may provide an opportunity for young props Ben Davies and Dom Crosby to edge into the reckoning. Second-rower Chris Tuson would also put his hand up to play prop if given the chance.

[Kittwazzer]

I think its time to consider giving Davis and Crosby a run out in the 'easier' games. Freddie on the other hand seems in danger of becoming the forgotten man. Must be 12 months now since he last played!

[GBH]

Its a real shame to be loosing such a good player, we seem to be hit hard with at the minuet with players off injured!

[THE 18th Man]

i dont watch the reserves so couldnt comment but based on what people have seen who would you give Fielden's place to if it was a choice between Ben Davies or Dom Crosby. it may be a bit early for Crosby to come in but stranger things have happened

[KOOCH]

I've seen young Ben Davies but not Dom Crosby alas. Some earlier posters say he his a good young prospect but lacking in size so I cannot really comment. And like yourselves I would like to know other opinions. I am all for blooding the youth and I'm sure that MM&SW are aware of just who is capable of stepping up.

[cpwigan]

No doubt someone will get an opportunity now. If O'Carroll cannot get himself fit then I would think Davies followed by Crosby will get the call. IIRC, O'Carroll's contract expires at the end of this season. If so, it does not look good for him.

[GeoffN]

Well, our 4 props for now will be Lima, Prescott, Coley & Mossop, but I'd say Davies was next in line if one of those 4 is out.

Davies has been outstanding in his last two games, though admittedly against poor opposition (the old problem with the reserves grade competition).

[cpwigan]

A left of field call. Hoffman to prop. Farrell and/or Hock to the second row. Hoff certainly has the size and workrate. I can remember backrower like Fairleigh (Saints) coming here and doing a fantastic job at prop.

[thomo]

as this is a forum and just another idea to throw into the debate:

How about looking for a loan signing to fill the gap?
If the Gleeson stories are confirmed there will be room on the salary cap.

Yes i am all for giving youth a chance but front row is a hard tough place to play (as are all rugby league positions) and do we really want to throw a young kid into the position. Dont forget despite how well Lee Mossop has played he is still a front row rookie.
If we got more injuries we could be really short.

i dont feel we have one back rower who could prop - maybe Hansen.

Taxi for O'Carroll if his contract is up at the end of the year he could be let go but i thought he signed a longer term deal?

[Wandering Warrior]

Going back to the past a certain Billy McGinty played prop against Brisbane in '94. Not exactly a big chap but he was fit as a fiddle, gave 110% work rate & most importantly, always tackled above his weight. And to think he was signed as a centre! Marvellous servant for the club.