Everyone is debating whether Benji should be given the last 4 games in first grade. However I think Lote is more deserving. Potter gave him a big wrap saying his attitude has been first class all year and how we has had a good influence on the youngsters. For a bloke who has spent the best part of 3 seasons injured, i think that sort of professional approach he has carried himself with is a real feather in his cap. He could have easily thrown in the towel and just retired or dropped off in attitude. Obviously he has no issues with playing in the NSW cup last week. He strikes me as the sort of bloke who doesn't have this big ego around him, just a good bloke.
Now we all know he is in the twilight and most likely in his last season. However we should give him the last month and see if he can rekindle some form. I think on character alone and perseverance he deserves a place ahead of Ayshford and some of the youngsters would be thrilled to play along side him. Yes we have a lot of talented outside bakcs with youth and pace on their side, however Lote can still maybe help in mentoring them on a low wage next year. Maybe it would be worht giving him another year, if we are not going to make any real big signings, just for some depth and to have a guy of his character round.
We are heading towards a phase of rebuilding with a young list. These guys will develop quicker with good senior characters around them. Guys like Moltzen, Ayshford, Marshall I would have to question their character and thats why I am glad they are going. However a guy like Lote maybe he can still offer something to the place even if not heavily on the field. I just hope we can get into first grade and play a few good games, because I thik its been pretty sad what has happened to him. He was awesome in 2010 and injuries, rather then poor form have dead set destroyed him.
Now we all know he is in the twilight and most likely in his last season. However we should give him the last month and see if he can rekindle some form. I think on character alone and perseverance he deserves a place ahead of Ayshford and some of the youngsters would be thrilled to play along side him. Yes we have a lot of talented outside bakcs with youth and pace on their side, however Lote can still maybe help in mentoring them on a low wage next year. Maybe it would be worht giving him another year, if we are not going to make any real big signings, just for some depth and to have a guy of his character round.
We are heading towards a phase of rebuilding with a young list. These guys will develop quicker with good senior characters around them. Guys like Moltzen, Ayshford, Marshall I would have to question their character and thats why I am glad they are going. However a guy like Lote maybe he can still offer something to the place even if not heavily on the field. I just hope we can get into first grade and play a few good games, because I thik its been pretty sad what has happened to him. He was awesome in 2010 and injuries, rather then poor form have dead set destroyed him.
