bigdogsgottaeat said:
Your attack and defence was very good. I'd have to disagree about the 50-50 calls *all* going our way
You're right, the 50:50 calls did seem to even out. I felt some of the calls that went against the Knights seemed to happen in crucial field position, which never helps. But, truth be told, we bombed it ourselves. Even putting aside our inability to capitalise on half chances, and our over-dependence on Johns to provide 5th tackle options, we had every reason to be able to come back from the deficit. Newton should have taken us closer, and Reynoldson would have put us in the lead. Both managed to botch it with poor ball handling.
A few things are VERY clear:
- We need Thaiday to provide the missing spark.
- Johns needs someone else to take the pressure off -- Mullen's return can't come soon enough
- Simpson remain very under-rated.
- Newton can't catch.
- Reynoldson can't catch either, and gets smashed a lot.
- Kurt Gidley is susceptible under the high ball -- not a very good reputation to have for a fullback.
- Anthony Quinn, despite the assurances of many here, is susceptible to being treated as a speed bump. He cost us three tries today.
- George Carmont can't be both useful and useless in the same game -- I don't know whether to cheer him or cover my eyes.
Now, if Coach Johns sees this list of things I'm fairly sure nothing will surprise him. The game plan will be:
- Have a rest.
- Get some players back (Mullen and Thaiday particularly)
- Address the above issues
Here's hoping we're taking these things seriously.