Also aside from pics thought I'd' post a couple of my F7s articles for you guys, if you haven't read 'em
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Super Boot
The NRL is lucky that over the years it has seen some wonderful goal kickers in its time. In a game as tough and fast as rugby league, sometimes its not always the big hits or try scoring heroics that count the most. Instead it is those vital penalties and conversions or a big drop out that can make all the difference.
Current Warriors five-eighth Michael Witt is a shining light and his kicking skills in 2007 showcased just that.
Round 14, Sharks v Warriors at Toyota Park - The game Witt came of age.
With the rain pelting down and mistakes aplenty from both sides, the Warriors entered the second half with a narrow 6-2 lead. The wind picked up causing further problems with handling which also made kicking for field position that much harder. The Warriors fought long into the second half having messed up two great opportunities before finally scoring in the last few minutes. Witt was up to take the kick, having already converted a try in the first half from an easier angle. Unfortunately for him, this conversion was at a wide angle. If the kick missed, it was understandable as the Warriors had wrapped the game up and the strong winds would make it tough even for the best kickers. However, Witt struck the ball sweetly and it swung with the wind first to the left and then back to the posts and over the black dot. It was the icing on the cake. The kick stressed two points. Firstly, it emphasised that the Warriors were back in business. After suffering that painful 6 game losing streak they were back and ready to rock. Secondly, in the previous week Witt only had two shots at goal before handing the goal kicking duties back to first choice kicker Tony Martin. In the space of two weeks Witts goal kicking underscored what the Warriors had been missing in a goal kicker - accuracy. Since current coach and former Warriors goal kicker Ivan Cleary retired, goal kicking was usually abysmal for the club. But, thanks to that goal they had found the perfect replacement in Witt
Round 19, Warriors v Dragons at Mt Smart Stadium - Witt has a kicking Masterclass.
The Dragons came to town not exactly playing their best football in 2007 and the Warriors wasted little time in getting down to business. Following their red hot form against cellar dwellers the Penrith Panthers, the Warriors piled on the points and Witt made it extra special with his goal kicking. Every try was a guaranteed six points, which just hammered the nail deeper into the Dragons coffin. Any semblance of a fight back was effectively snuffed out early and the extra points Witt added also aided the for-and-against tally for the Warriors. With a handy lead the fans and even the players could relax and enjoy the day. Over the next few weeks for the Warriors four point tries were to become certain six pointers because of Witt's radar boot. The streak was eventually broken on the road against the Tigers at Leichardt Oval, and the most disappointed person the streak was over was Witt the sign of a true professional.
Round 21, Roosters v Warriors at Aussie Stadium - Witts going the distance.
It was a game that was later referred to as one of the best games in 2007, a modern classic. The Roosters jumped out to an early lead then momentum swung and the Warriors piled on the points as Witt was back to his goal kicking best. He slotted over the conversions as the Warriors clawed their way back into the match. While general field kicking was terrible, Witt more than made up for it with two great kicks in general play. The Roosters were up by one with less than a minute to go. Hot on attack but still some distance out, Witt gets the ball and kicks a field goal to tie the game. Then, in golden point extra time with time ticking away, Witt kicks a magnificent drop out going 70 meters getting the Warriors out of jail and allowing them to defend the last few seconds outside their red zone.
It's fast approaching the business end of the 2008 season, and I have a feeling that Michael Witt will feature with another clutch conversion or long distance drop out. Even if he doesnt, its still a joy to watch a true master at his craft.
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