Dear readers, some impressions from Friday night’s “grudge” match between the Roosters and Canterbury, in no particular order.
People have been bemoaning the predictability of some teams’ attack in the early rounds of 2013.
One huge problem is the midfield bomb on the back of a set that reaches the opponents’ 40 by fifth tackle.
But I’ll get to that another time.
I don’t have statistics to support my general impression that there are fewer offloads occurring right now, but whatever the number is, one thing is certain: attacking teams are not pushing up support on the ball carrier.
Canterbury were left flat-footed several times when a pass did come out the back. Players are falling into a collective mindset that causes them to be passive until the set play on last tackle.
Continued nil scorelines should alter this behaviour if the coaches are alert.
Roger Tuivasa-Sheck doesn’t get enough touches. I’ll let all of you figure out how to solve this.
James Maloney may be the signing of 2013. He has stepped up another level as a player, appearing to be the modern era’s Terry Lamb.
He is simply a complete player without one overpowering skill. He gives the Roosters dimension.
Canterbury are like a jazz pianist recovering from broken fingers. Hesitant, with no rhythm. They miss Sam Kasiano’s power and skill, but worse for them is that teams have taken Melbourne’s lead from last year’s GF in recognising that this team cannot beat you at dummy half or in the halves.
It’s all about Josh Morris and Ben Barba and as a result, the Bulldogs are running up football scorelines. Des Hasler is being cannibalised by his peers and Canterbury need a genuine quality halfback.
Okay, next post I will examine the problem of the modern era’s new normal: the 50-60m set from deep within one’s own half that lands an attacking team on the opponent’s 40.
Should be a positive, right? Wrong.
Nick
Guest
dogs need a new half back if there going to be dangerous maybe chasing widdop or sam williams would be a good option
Dr NRL
Roar Rookie
That is the likely plan, which would have occurred if Mini had retired. Hard to drop a player of his service record, but mistakes are creeping into his game. If that continues, Sheck will be playing finals at fullback ...
Anakin
Guest
Drury Low - now with the Bulldogs - also came from the VRL (Waverly-Oakleigh Panthers), as did Widdop! Widdop may have been born in England but came here at 16 and played with Altona Roosters before the Storm signed him to their NYC side.
MG Burbank
Roar Guru
Haha Oikee. Yes, Fonua has come a long way in a few games. His courage and strength with the ball is sensational. For all those imbeciles who said it wasn't worth the trouble having a Melbourne team, his emergence should silence that.
John Besley
Roar Rookie
Agreed. Sheck's talent and skill set is suited for the fullback position. Mini has been great for a long time but he just lacks Sheck's incredible footwork, which is somewhat stifled on the wing.
Sir Lemon Goat
Guest
Roosters must move Tuivasa-Sheck to fullback where he will be really dominant and add another dimension
Lou
Guest
Can't win when it counts if you don't have a half ,,,, Des why not try captain coaching for a while ,,, can't get worse can it
oikee
Guest
Great summary MG. Yes Maloney was good at the warriors, behind a team that was not as good as this roosters outfit, and i see he is now a Origin bolter. No surprise their really. The dogs you have covered perfectly. They will probably come good at the back of the season, maybe around the origin period, i still dont think it will make any difference, the horse has already bolted. Roosters, looking good, Sheck is ellible for Kiwis? He is a ripper. And that storm winger born in Melbourne, he is sensational, is he ellible for Queensland i think. Melbourne, thats in Queensland. hehe