In what was a very low standard match between the Tigers and Manly the other night, one shining light was the performance of former Rooster Tom Symonds.
I have always had a big wrap on this kid. He is strong, he is evasive and, most importantly, he reads the game well.
Manly have done very well in recruiting big Tom, with the secondrower/centre already paying early dividends with two tries in the last two games.
He strikes me as that versatile player that every successful club needs, and I think the Roosters have missed a trick in letting him go.
What I really like about him is that he looks to be a player who is always trying to win.
I know that sounds like an absurd thing to say. Surely all players are trying to win, right?
While that may be true, typically players are trying to win by performing the role they have been coached to do.
That might be holding onto the ball and completing, or hammering forward in a particular channel on the field.
What I mean when I say “always trying to win” is that Symonds looks to be cut from the cloth of players who read the game in front of them.
If there are numbers to the left he will get the ball out there, if there is a lack of momentum and nothing doing, he won’t just charge the ball up mindlessly at the opposition line, he will from time to time run and probe for an opportunity.
I have to admit I love watching players like that. It’s more interesting to watch than a lot of the structured plays that get trotted out these days.
There are times in a match when you need to back yourself and chance your arm and this fella seems to do that really well.
Another great asset that Symonds has is that he can play in the forwards and the backs, a bit like Mitch Aubusson. This flexibility can prove the difference for coaches in crucial games, especially when it becomes a war of attrition.
He has had a horrendous run with injury in the last few years, but I wish you all the best Tommy (even though you are now playing for the enemy).
Robert
Guest
Symonds got a change in coaching styles with Robinson.I bet next year they'll want him back when Sonny Bro leaves and O'Donnell gets suspended or retires or wants more money and heads elsewhere -- Comment left via The Roar's iPhone app. Download it now [http://itunes.apple.com/au/app/the-roar/id327174726?mt=8].
Dogs Of War
Roar Guru
Do you really think the Roosters lament him going? Given who they have signed. Reminds my of the saying, the bird in the hand is worth two in the bush, when it comes to how it played out for the Roosters. Tom Symonds showed a lot of potential, but potential doesn't always mean you become the player the club wants. A change in scenario is probably what helped Tom rise to that next level (or even more so, the change of coaching styles).
Mals
Guest
Agreed I'm glad he's at Manly. Strong, good foot work, good at seeing opportunities & has an offload. -- Comment left via The Roar's iPhone app. Download it now [http://itunes.apple.com/au/app/the-roar/id327174726?mt=8].