Our ruck

[undy]

I'm starting to come across to the ruckman being worth a lot less than generally thought.
Replaced with a tallish (able to get close to the ball in the ruck) player who is fit and able to play as a midfielder gives us so much more run through the middle.
I would like to see this tested by some team one day.

Mmmm, maybe Ayce Cordy will be available at the end of this year if this experiment at the Dogs doesn't work out.

[CureTheSane]

For the record I'm not anti Pyke, just thinking pragmatically.
It worries me when players, particularly big men, start to look a little run down and 'over it'.
Not suggesting he IS over it, but I'm sure more eyes will be on him than usual over the next few rounds.

[wolftone57]

The thing that make a good midfield these days is not just being able to win the ball at stoppages and clear the ball. But to clear the ball effectively. The rucks have to hit to advantage, the mids have to be in the right spots to take advantage of the advantageous hit out. The players have to block and shepherd for each other while others provide the run.

Not only do you need to get the ball but you need to use it well. we fall down in most of those departments yet manage to win games. The other BIG thing is mids that run both ways and put huge pressure on the opposition, this we have in abundance and do possibly better than any other side. Our forwards also work hard both ways. We are still one of the best rebounding sides, possibly the best. We are one of the best at keeping sides pinned in our forward 50. But we need to be careful of the slingshot ball. something we are also very good at.

1. Rucks need to hit to advantage

2. Mids need to position themselves so they can take advantage of the good hit out

3. Protect the player with the ball (gives him time to weigh up the best option)

4. Deliver well around the ground

5. Deliver well to the forwards

6. Defend with purpose and tightness (I noticed we are allowing the short 10-15 metre kick in our forwardline. We need to tighten up on this. The Hawks nearly pinched a match through loose footy).

7. Know what to do before we get the ball. No time for thinking after we get it, too late, then it is 'Don't Think DO' (Yes I know it is a John Kennedy Snr line). Too many players only think about it when the pill is in their hands, you have to be one move ahead of the play today to be successful. not easy I know but that's the deal if you want to win the big bloomin' cup at the end of September.

[Conor_Dillon]

Have you been involved in coaching wolfy?

[annew]

What about Derrickx