For the 31 players on the Eagles World Cup roster there are few better feelings than knowing you area about to achieve a life goal. At the same time, there are a number of players that have been pushing for a spot on the team that missed out. We highlight five players that we think were right there but didn't make the cut.
Todd Clever
This conversation can't really begin without a mention of Todd Clever. His dismissal from the Eagles during the Pacific Nations Cup and the omission from the RWC has some fans extremely upset. We know that Clever missed some team meetings but that is pretty much it. There is a lot out there on the internet but nothing confirmed.
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There is no question that Clever is a great player and as the face of the Eagles over the last 10 years gives them a solid media presence. He's also been a leader on the field. At the same time, this isn't the Clever that we're accustomed to seeing. He faces a lot of stiff competition on the back-row and it's hard to argue that all six players on the roster aren't deserving of spots.
Where does Clever go from here? It's possible that he gives 7s a go and that seems his most likely option already having a home in San Diego. He may still be playing for OMBAC but it looks like his overseas career is at an end.
Nick Wallace
For a couple of years Wallace was firmly in the prop discussion with Titi Lamositele, Eric Fry, and Ollie Kilifi. However, in just the last few months he's been apparently passed by Mate Moeakiola, Chris Baumann, and Joseph Taufete'e. Maybe it's been an undisclosed injury or a work commitment that has prevented his selection or he simply fell out of favor. There is still time for him to make his way back in after the World Cup but he'll have his work cut out for him.
Tom Coolican
Like Wallace, a year ago Coolican looked like he had his place in England cemented. Not only had he established himself as the number two hooker behind Phil Thiel but even looked like he might pass him as a starter. Coolican hasn't been with the Eagles this summer and it coincides with his rise to a key contributor to Sydney University and the Sydney Stars. Maybe the idea of a contract in Australia was a factor but it also count be discounted how much Zach Fenoglio has stepped up this year.
Ronnie McLean
After a strong couple of matches for the Eagles in spot duty last November some, including ourselves, had McLean picked as someone who could fill in on multiple spots in the backs. That was the kind of versatility that the Eagles have cherished this go around. Still, it seems like it wasn't enough as the Eagles went with even less backs this go around and will rely on a few players to get the job done.
Adam Siddall
It was Siddall's choice to rule himself out this year. It's hard to blame him wanting to take care of his brain but at the same time he could not only play fly-half but provide cover at fullback. He likely would have been on the team.
Special mention could be made of players like John Cullen, Matt Trouville, Kyle Sumsion, and Toby L'Estrange, players that have gotten looks but will have to wait until next time.