I really like Croker and think his defence is such a massive piece of our puzzle but he still really struggles to have any impact with the ball and I think it’s hurting us big time.
There’s just no threat or variation or subtlety around the ruck for Manly. Essentially, unless we can run a block play and put a winger away, we have nothing. Short passing in the middle third of the field bears no fruit for us because we don’t suck defenders in around the middle. Teams often score on the edges after making a dent in the middle.
It’s not about whether Croker is involved in a try assist or not (sure, it’s nice if he is), it’s about moving the defence around and asking enough questions in the middle, to cause concerns elsewhere.
Mahoney really showed his smarts last night on a few occasions.
I hate to lose Croker’s defence and he has improved, but I still think you need a complete player at 9 to challenge the top sides.