That's a lot of positional changes when we really only need one.
Robbo is our usual left winger, perhaps one of the best in the competition. He knows that position so well, much of what he does is just instictive. For example, barely even having to think about it, he knows......when to drop back, when to come up and also when to slide, in defence. In attack, he combines beautifully with our regular left centre, Steve Matai. He also is used to latching on to Matt Orfords grubber kicks from out there.
From his usual position out on the left wing, he's become very adept at reading the game, knowing just where he has to be and is an enormous asset to the team.
However at fullback, he is a liability. He's been given ample opportunity to show he can do it. Five times this season he's been picked there. He has not scored a try and Manly have lost every single time. Now I'm not laying the entire blame at his feet, but the fact remains......So far this year, when he has played in the fullback position, Manly has lost. Perhaps by sheer coincidence, when he has gone back to his regular spot on the left wing....Manly have won.
There is nothing anyone can do about Brett. If Gong is right and he's out for the whole season, they have to find a permanent replacement.
So far in Dave Williams's absence, Michael Bani has struck up a good combination with Jamie Lyon on the right side.....so leave him there. Robbo needs to go back to his usual position on the left wing. Therefore that leaves Dave Williams to go to fullback.
The Wolfman will bring a completely different style to the fullback position, something they need right now. If nothing else, his kick returns will be harder, faster and more direct than both Robbo and Brett.
The season is fast slipping away. They need something to spark them into action. I honestly believe that moving Robbo back to the wing and putting the Wolfman at fullback....is just the thing they need.
