Our Next Five Eight

[zac]

You have to let Manu run wild ... that's just his style and how he plays. If you try and add structure and set plays, he'll be come plain and average.


His best asset is his unpredictability and unorthodox style of playing and that's what makes him an absolute weapon (X Factor). Unfortunately, Walker is at a point in his career where he is in the same boat (not in the same class) where he also plays that 'eyes up footy .. instinctive way'; but if anything ... he will have to be the one to quickly develop that "methodical, game -manager" skill-set as a half-back because we really do need that one specific person who can control and call the shots in the spine.

but walker's a better ball player than joey or teddy, better at linking with other players

[BraveTheWorld]

Seriously? Cronk had one of the best boots in the game. He won't get close, no matter how much the training. The best we can hope for is him being a serviceable option, alongside Walker.

Slightly misunderstanding the context here which is probably my fault.
He can certainly learn to kick as far as Cronk - not necessarily to be as good of a kicker on the whole.

[RoosterBooster]

I’m not sure what the obsession is with Manu needing to be a great kicker? I think his gruber, cross field kick when attacking is already fine already.

As an example at Penrith they really only use Cleary as their kicker, I would not classify Luai as a great kicker.

Hopefully in the off-season Walker can continue to improve his kicking and add extra distance. I have confidence as his improvement in goal kicking this season as been remarkable.

[The Lip]

Joey is a naturally gifted athlete - big and strong with great timing - he will be able to boot the ball as long as most no problem - I'm sure of that. Bit of tuition is all he will need.

[Tommy Smith]

The only question going forward will be how Manu pairs with a halfback like Walker were he to move to 5/8.

Next to a game manager with a big boot like Cleary - free to just run and roam - he'd be an absolute monster.

But Sammy isn't that sort of half. At least not yet.