Im with you on this. I think we have enough enforcers, our edge defence lacks judgement at times and is slow but we honestly don't score enough points to keep us in matches. In the past, we may have let a try in, but go up the other end and snag one back which can keep you in the match and within range. Has a carry on effect, the boys fire up and when you are within striking distance all the players naturally go to another level. Anyone that has played the game know this. When we hardly score more than one or two tries a game, when we start getting too far behind, we know it will be a miracle to come back.
Yes, edge defence needs work, but how long has it been since we looked threatening with the ball.
The team knows its own identity. If you were to look at our team over the past few years the majority of our wins and games they have performed well in have been a result the early ambush.
If the team doesnt do well in the first 20 invariably the writing is on the wall. It also shows the level of self belief the team has in its own ability, knowing the players it has at its disposal
Considering the lop sided possession rates over the last year in particular against manly, the team knows its in for a mountain of rear guard defence after it squanders its opportunities and they essentially rely on the opposition imploding or the ref to help them regain field possession and a slight breather. They have no recipe to rescue themselves
I agree about our defence being despondent when it squanders opportunities , especially early. Its why a rabbitt on about game management, kicking , patience and respect for the ball and DCE poor control despite a few flashy finishes.
He sets the tone for a team with only a few gears but wont adapt to the team, which almost always has there heads dropped and the mental battle over before half time.
He sets the tone , not because he is the only go to , but because of his use of the ball. High risk, low reward with no regard to the teams needs, possibly wanting to spend time camped in someone elses territory and for once feel like they are actually controlling a game instead of constantly reacting
Its how his team responds to his moments, not us. Surely as someone who has played you get this , and see why its not about what he does but what he refuses to do .
Hope you had a good christmas
@Simonmyers11 and looking forward to continuing our exchanges. I can see your resolve starting to weaken in a few of your posts. Your man will break you sooner or later.
