I think some criticism of Staines is fair in general, but I don't think this kind of fullback is long gone. Burton's break yesterday was a perfect example. Having an extremely quick fullback with good instincts around the ruck backs up that break and scores. It's been years since we've had a player who backs up breaks/half-breaks like that, generally due to a lack of speed in the team as a whole (also notable is that Tago was one of the only Panthers in the frame when Burton was tackled despite being a long way away when the break was made). Charlie can do that if given a chance to develop his instincts in the position, while also to my eye looking like our best FB option for chiming into a backline play.
Appreciate that he's looking suss under the high ball, but when Edwards is going through his current phase of the yips that hardly seems like a big tradeoff. Edwards is still doing decently on kick returns, but Charlie's speed will provide an advantage on a staggered line that isn't present on a play 1/2 when the line is set.
If there was a way for him to gain a little size/strength without sacrificing pace that would be ideal though.
It is long gone though... who of any of the current fbs play like hodgson used too? Like wesser used to. Teddy, turbo, ponga, they all are standing in the backline for plays.
The only time you really see fbs around the ruck is generally for a set play. Manly has got set plays back through the ruck for turbo.. same with melbs. They always done it well.
The way the game is played now the hookers are all pretty quick and generally following the forwards ready for any half break or 2nd phase play.
Former panther Caleb aekins was very similiar to staines in style of play. Caleb wasnt quite as quick as charlie but still had toe. Caleb certainly isnt afraid to get his hands dirty and take hard carries but his style of play is definitley like hodgson. He just floats around the ruck. He had a few decent games for the raiders but that style just isnt how teams plsy anymore and he will have to go to super league if he wants to get regular time in the top grade.
Charlie played fb the other week and the line was stsggered a number of times and he barely hit 50% speed and just looked to pass it. Really was uninspiring.
I certainly hope he can show something soon because Taylan may, and sunia turuva are both extremley talented and wont be far off fg. May in particular. Turuva probably needs another hskf year of reggies but still looks very promosing at fb.