Who was The most influential player ever?

[JJ]

Chris Close showed that really fat bastards could play in the backs

 

[madunit]

In answer to the question posed in the OP, and this will come as no surprise, But in my view, Duncan Thompson was the most influential. Lead the Bears to their only two premierships (back to back - one of which saw them undefeated for a season). He then became a coach who helped the likes of Keith Holman and whose methods, as a player and coach, were adopted and used by Wayne Bennett.

 

[Galeforce]

J t

 

[bazza]

I just can't understand all this Dally Messenger fanboy crap.

There wouldn't be one person alive who has actually seen him play in the flesh. And it would be highly doubtful that there is any footage of him playing.

If there is any film, it would be grainy old black and white shit taken from ground level. You'd be lucky to recognise any of the players, let alone Messenger.

To me, the playing prowess of Messenger is written in folklore, handed down over the years and probably exaggerated, just like the "big fish" story.

He was influential in that if he didn't take up league then we might not be having this discussion today

 

[Mogsheen Jadwat]

Braith Anasta, he showed you could get punched in the face and penalised at the same time.