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NSW Blues StNSW Blues State of Origin coach Craig Bellamy. AAP Image/Dean Lewins
Who, after 70 minutes of game 3, was ready to sign Craig Bellamy up for another crack at Origin? Not me. Following Origin 2, Bellamy offered to resign as head coach of the NSW State of Origin team, only to have his offer declined by the powers that be.
A very kind and malign gesture from both parties attempting to salvage a series whitewash.
Origin 3 for Bellamy was nothing more than a formality; he surely did not expect to receive another opportunity, so why did they keep him there?
To be completely honest, what he’s achieved as a coach is now up for debate.
Bellamy was considered the next Wayne Bennett after graduating from his tutelage at the Broncos to the top job with the Storm. His hard exterior is somewhat a reflection of Bennett, however, as coaches, the two differ greatly.
His lack of success at Origin is probably a more accurate measure of his ability as a coach, rather than what he’s achieved with a golden check book down in Melbourne.
To me, Craig Bellamy is an animator, a coach who fires his team up for battle with threats and rhetoric, a coaching style which holds little substance with the term “coaching”.
You may be thinking, “well, its worked for him so far.” Not necessarily.
I’m of the opinion that the Storm of recent years haven’t needed anything more than to be simply told “go out and win”.
Their ability as footballers far exceeds any other side in the competition, and probably would have won a few more premierships had they not been found out.
It’s clear Bellamy has brought his animation coaching style to Origin. Following game 2 Michael Ennis was quoted as saying “I’ve enjoyed my time under Craig Bellamy, he’s introduced me to Origin, and showed what it’s all about.”
I’m not entirely sure this is a good thing, the only experience and advice which Bellamy could pass on would be that of losing, besides, he never played Origin, so what exactly is it “all about”, Craig.
What falsehoods are you telling these players that’s causing such destruction?
If Michael Ennis’ performance was anything to go by, a good facial massage and raised forearm would be a start, or perhaps carrying on like a UFC fighter ala Luke O’Donnell in game 2?
Who wouldn’t love the opportunity to fire up mongrel players who have aggression to burn? Unfortunately, Origin is about much more.
Coaching and selection are paramount. Suggestions have been raised over a possible Director of Coaching role for Phil Gould. Personally, I reckon it would be another ego trip for Phil, the game has evolved since he was coaching, no matter how close he may have come to training sessions, and no matter how many games he’s commentated, I believe the job would be best suited to someone who’s remained in the game.
Cartwright, Elliot and Furner come to mind; so far this season they have shown ability as coaches, rather than the ability to carry on like an agitated headmaster with a propensity to use the Cain.
Furner seems to be producing some promise with a club that lives off the smell of an oily rag.
Elliot has risen from the dead and looks like producing the goods later in the season with the Panthers, and whilst Cartwright has had continued success with the Titans, his imposing figure commands respect from all, not just the players. I don’t think Ennis would have lost the plot knowing Cartwright was waiting for him in the sheds.
I refuse to accept the adage that NSW simply don’t have the cattle.
Yes, Queensland have a very good side, however, have played against some of the most poorly selected NSW teams in history, coach included. To claim they are the greatest Origin team is ridiculous; this could only be substantiated if they were dominating a NSW team of similar standard.
The QRL seem to have the magic potion at the moment, an organisation that seem to be in it for Origin, rather than to fuel their own ego’s. This was evident when they went back on their decision and selected Israel Folau. Yes, it received some bad press, however, paid dividends.
One can only imagine how much hair Geoff Carr would have had left had Israel slotted that last conversion from the sideline.
One swallow does not make a drunk, NSWRL should not consider the 70 minutes of reasonable football the future for NSWRL, otherwise the hangover will last a lot longer than five years.
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