Riley wasn’t willing to give up the farm for Dame because it didn’t make us sure-fire contenders and would cripple our future. Remember, he has to balance winning now with winning in the future too.

So many wanted him to cave and just give Portland whatever just to make a move.

Now we are looking decent with room to improve at the deadline:

• Lowry’s fat expiring that’ll have the final year half paid by that point
• Duncan Robinson who’s contract may no longer be seen as a negative
• An improved Hero who will fetch more now

Riley isn’t perfect but he’s damn good.