Hilder has played 197 first grade games of which 97 are for the Knights. I think that says it all, check the stats. 2012 not many games due to injuries. I saw the first trail game this year and he looked sharp also topped the tackle count against Manly. Rather someone with those credits, than bleed a young one at this stage, we need maturity like Bedsy. I am sure Wayne will make the right call either way. The team named is never the one that takes the field thee days.
I'm not doubting his experience, or his value in the past. I just don't think he has anything to offer this squad. Our defence is no longer in need of a clean up guy. His running game and distribution is poor and his defensive style is often counter productive.
His motor isn't the only reason he makes 1000 tackles per game, he is targeted because he generally gives a quick play the ball away and doesn't hurt in the tackle. This point has been brought up many times in the past.
I don't think the amount of games he has played for us, his form in a trial, or even his tackle count against Manly (remember how steam-rolled we got) provide evidence that he deserves his spot.
The thing that we will always get from Hilder is 100% commitment. He has the heart of a lion but i don't think he has a future here. He could go to a club with a less organised defence and do very well cleaning up after them. I hope he does because his character seems great and he deserves to be playing NRL.
