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If I was a first-grade league player and I had the pick of all the coaches on offer, I would lean heavily towards Ivan Cleary. He seems calm, polite and approachable.
I’m not a huge fan of being screamed at, so I would steer clear of Craig Bellamy and his famous rants, even though he knows how to get the best out of his troops. Wayne Bennett would have been my pick a few years back, but I feel he may be losing his aura.
Yes, Cleary is firm but very fair. It’s clear to see that this attitude and inclusive approach has created a happy Tigers team in 2018 – they all seem to be playing for each other.
Cleary’s also attracted a few players to the Tigers from teams that he has previously coached, which is a good sign of respect. Most notably, he lured giant Kiwi prop Ben Matulino from the Warriors to add starch to his forward pack. His front row combination with new recruit Russell Packer is a scary prospect for opposing teams.
Cleary knows how to get the best out of his players and he’s obviously made Packer the captain of the side this week for a reason. Considering how he’s turned his life around, this is a great achievement for Packer and he’s surely thriving on this extra responsibility.
(AAP Image/Paul Miller)
Another standout for the Tigers this year is Benji Marshall. Cleary seems to have transformed Benji into a clever half who looks to be a far more complete player than the young Benji who relied on his step and speed off the mark.
Benji’s partner in crime, Luke Brooks, also seems to have benefitted from the wise words and tuition of Cleary. He looks sharp and in control.
Another player who has renewed confidence is Corey Thompson who was brought home to Australia after featuring for the Widnes Vikings in the English Super League. Thompson is the form fullback of the competition and has recently been rewarded with a contract extension. Funnily enough, he’s been pushed onto the wing this week, making way for the talented Tuimoala Lolohea, who returns from injury.
This week the Tigers’ opponents are the Melbourne Storm, a team they managed to beat in the opening round. Craig Bellamy’s crew will surely be looking for revenge and will test the Tigers to the max.
Even if Melbourne win this Saturday, I’d still prefer Ivan Cleary over Bellamy to guide me through the pressure of first grade rugby league.
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