Signings, Suggestions & Rumours Discussion

[happy_tiger]

My issue with Harry is the longer the season went, the less dependable his form became. Not that it was ever bad, because I think he's unlikely to play bad football, but specifically his hooking qualities stumbled a little as the season wore on.

I hear you but as the season went on our forwards became more and more useless, I think that's the reason Grant found it harder.

Throw in the knee injury and hand injury that plagued him from mid season as well

 

[JC99]

However, Harry Grant appears to be a generational type talent playing in a key position, any club worth their salt should be chasing him. When he got hurt, our season unravelled.

I honestly don't agree with that and I think folks have gone off too early with Harry.

My issue with Harry is the longer the season went, the less dependable his form became. Not that it was ever bad, because I think he's unlikely to play bad football, but specifically his hooking qualities stumbled a little as the season wore on.

Maybe it was just the COVID season or his first full season in NRL that starts to take a toll. But specifically I am talking about his service and his decision-making. I think both of those aspects started to falter a little and he was guilty of holding the ball too often when he should have just been letting it sing. The best hookers get rid of the football as quickly as possible, but REALLY go when it's time to go. They don't stop and think about it, which is killer being that close to the defensive line.

There was a very noticeable up-swing in momentum when Liddle returned to the side and his all-around speed made an impact - both run speed and distribution speed. He just got the ball moving. The back end of our season was hallmarked by late-game rushes of points and I believe this was partially influenced by the increase of tempo from Liddle.

What I won't criticise Harry about is his toiling ability, to just toil away tackling and chasing the football. That is high quality and I think his major contribution. People notice Harry because he's always around the football. He's clearly a smart footballer.

I think he's very similar to Brandon Smith, who I don't believe is really a hooker. Harry is more hooker-style than Smith on account of his size, but he has that same toiling smart football about him. But I do have question marks on him touching the football every set for 24 rounds. You could certainly do worse than have Harry going around, but there's a very particular skillset a la Koroisau or Cook that Grant doesn't have, that decisive speed in attack. Liddle is more that kind of footballer, even if he lacks the physical stature and tenacity of Grant at this stage.

Also yet to see much of a kicking game from Harry.

I'd definitely re-sign the guy but I just think we need to temper our reactions to his first 10 weeks, which were great, to his last 10 weeks - injury notwithstanding - with the mindset of trying to predict a career-long outcome. Debutants can often start their careers really well in the first half-season, but that doesn't necessarily equate to what you are going to see career-long.

I definitely think it's too early to call him a generational talent.

Think you’re underestimating how smart he is with the footy in his hands. Constantly drawing markers and giving our forwards more room and always picks the right passes. He’s the guy you want picking the ball up when there’s a half chance because most of the time he creates something for you.

Liddle either passes off the deck or runs, he doesn’t have that evasiveness in his game that draws markers and opens up room for his team mates. It’s a skill that can be learned but Harry already has it, learned off the best in the game.

Good example is the comeback vs manly. Doueihi made thag good run and Harry got the ball and instantly fired it out wide knowing there was an overlap. Garner almost ruined it but Harry picked it back up and fired it wide again creating the try. He’s a very very smart footballer and although he might not be a once in a generation player, he’s going to be a top 3 hooker for the next 10 years Barring injury

I still think Liddle is a great little player and I’m keen to see him play more for and continue to develop. He’s very fast and plays eyes up footy, I hope our forwards give him room to run because he could become a Damien cook like player, I remember his game vs roosters where he scored he was excellent

Don’t agree entirely with what you are saying. The Wests Tigers looked the sharpest when both Harry and Liddle were on the field. Harry was at lock, I think, and Liddle was dummy half. Attack was crisp and penetrating. Liddle was definitely faster out of dummy half than Grant. I’d love to have both again.

Liddle is certainly a quicker player and has faster service but Harry creates more for sure. That’s why having Liddle at hooker and Harry as a ball playing lock worked so well

 

[Tigerlily]

However, Harry Grant appears to be a generational type talent playing in a key position, any club worth their salt should be chasing him. When he got hurt, our season unravelled.

I honestly don't agree with that and I think folks have gone off too early with Harry.

My issue with Harry is the longer the season went, the less dependable his form became. Not that it was ever bad, because I think he's unlikely to play bad football, but specifically his hooking qualities stumbled a little as the season wore on.

Maybe it was just the COVID season or his first full season in NRL that starts to take a toll. But specifically I am talking about his service and his decision-making. I think both of those aspects started to falter a little and he was guilty of holding the ball too often when he should have just been letting it sing. The best hookers get rid of the football as quickly as possible, but REALLY go when it's time to go. They don't stop and think about it, which is killer being that close to the defensive line.

There was a very noticeable up-swing in momentum when Liddle returned to the side and his all-around speed made an impact - both run speed and distribution speed. He just got the ball moving. The back end of our season was hallmarked by late-game rushes of points and I believe this was partially influenced by the increase of tempo from Liddle.

What I won't criticise Harry about is his toiling ability, to just toil away tackling and chasing the football. That is high quality and I think his major contribution. People notice Harry because he's always around the football. He's clearly a smart footballer.

I think he's very similar to Brandon Smith, who I don't believe is really a hooker. Harry is more hooker-style than Smith on account of his size, but he has that same toiling smart football about him. But I do have question marks on him touching the football every set for 24 rounds. You could certainly do worse than have Harry going around, but there's a very particular skillset a la Koroisau or Cook that Grant doesn't have, that decisive speed in attack. Liddle is more that kind of footballer, even if he lacks the physical stature and tenacity of Grant at this stage.

Also yet to see much of a kicking game from Harry.

I'd definitely re-sign the guy but I just think we need to temper our reactions to his first 10 weeks, which were great, to his last 10 weeks - injury notwithstanding - with the mindset of trying to predict a career-long outcome. Debutants can often start their careers really well in the first half-season, but that doesn't necessarily equate to what you are going to see career-long.

I definitely think it's too early to call him a generational talent.

Think you’re underestimating how smart he is with the footy in his hands. Constantly drawing markers and giving our forwards more room and always picks the right passes. He’s the guy you want picking the ball up when there’s a half chance because most of the time he creates something for you.

Liddle either passes off the deck or runs, he doesn’t have that evasiveness in his game that draws markers and opens up room for his team mates. It’s a skill that can be learned but Harry already has it, learned off the best in the game.

Good example is the comeback vs manly. Doueihi made thag good run and Harry got the ball and instantly fired it out wide knowing there was an overlap. Garner almost ruined it but Harry picked it back up and fired it wide again creating the try. He’s a very very smart footballer and although he might not be a once in a generation player, he’s going to be a top 3 hooker for the next 10 years Barring injury

I still think Liddle is a great little player and I’m keen to see him play more for and continue to develop. He’s very fast and plays eyes up footy, I hope our forwards give him room to run because he could become a Damien cook like player, I remember his game vs roosters where he scored he was excellent

Don’t agree entirely with what you are saying. The Wests Tigers looked the sharpest when both Harry and Liddle were on the field. Harry was at lock, I think, and Liddle was dummy half. Attack was crisp and penetrating. Liddle was definitely faster out of dummy half than Grant. I’d love to have both again.

Liddle is certainly a quicker player and has faster service but Harry creates more for sure. That’s why having Liddle at hooker and Harry as a ball playing lock worked so well

People need to give Liddle a full season at dummy half before they pass judgment on his capabilities in that position. Harry got the chance to do so, how about giving one of our own that same opportunity.

 

[Deleted member 3518]

I can't believe some on here are happy to not make at least a play for Harry Grant if he comes on the market some are content with Liddle and Simpkin, i guess some are happy to finish 9th too
change it up
if we could get Harry and keep Simpkin and land JAC or Suali awesome, if it means losing Liddle then so be it

Liddle has more talent than Harry Grant... Lids has just been injured that's all... big difference in how he provides service... very noticeable... Harry is a good player but I wouldn't say he is better than Liddle... both has strengths and I would back Liddle instead of Harry

Maybe but Harry has ticker, he's a winner, has football sense and leadership. He's priority No 1 for me, even before JAC

We had Harry this year without speed in the backline and where did it get us? Harry is great don’t misunderstand but what Wests Tigers lack is speed. Outside backs with speed is an absolute no. 1 priority if we want to play finals footy.

We were better once Kepoa got on that wing . He just needs to work on his hands . But you could see the uplift in attack just having a guy who can turn half chances into full chances just by running faster than the previous bloke.
I honestly think Fullback and backrower are our most cause for concern . We have Blore and luci atm , and no one else . Garner has a foot out the door , Chee kam is a 15 at best , and McIntyre isn’t signed yet.
I’m not that worried about 9 . Liddle is more than capable . I really don’t think it’s wise to throw 800k at grant , despite how good he played this year . It’s bad cap management. If you look at it as wins and losses , how many wins and losses does grant offer over Liddle to warrant paying him 3 times the money ?

We have to be smarter . Damien Cook is the incumbent in the Aus team and he’s hardly the scheming genius , Cam, Robbie , and those types were. You can win just as many games with that type .
You can also win a lot with physical types like Friend , Radley , the other Smith , Isaac Luke etc.
We lost heaps of games because of instability and fragility on the edges , and lazy, tired uncommitted forwards in the middle .
It always seemed to start where benji, Joey , Garner were , and move inside . Then it was a concertina effect through the defensive line .

You make some good points, we really do need a speed merchant and a really dominant back rower/forward, I would like someone like Bateman to put a bit of fear into the opposition.

Definitely nailed it on your points about our right edge too.

However, Harry Grant appears to be a generational type talent playing in a key position, any club worth their salt should be chasing him. When he got hurt, our season unravelled.

I’ve got to disagree on that last one mate . To me, our season unravelled when Musgrove did himself a mischief , as well as twal. It became really apparent how bad Mika is in defence , and how packer is yesterday’s hero.
When both came back they had lost that intensity that was there in the first half of the year. Twal was really lacking starch in his defence . Probably because of trepidation after his injury .
This should fix itself next year with Tamou and stefano, providing that balance.

 

[earl]

He learned of the best hooker in the world for the last few years. Cam doesn’t have the physical attributes anymore but he’s the smartest footy player in the league. Harry has the smarts and the physicality, it’s a great mix

Has he just learnt of Smith ? I have my doubts. Brandan Smith would have had more opportunities to learn from Smith but to me he appears a very different player.

I reckon Grant is an awesome player but he made some mistakes last season when he was probably tired. He has great footy smarts but those mistakes can be killers. He threw some bad forward passes when we were right on the attack.

Liddle to me currently is nowhere near Grant but Liddles speed and passing game are really good.

I'd prefer Grant on the same money but I think we need other areas fixed prior to hooker. I'm hopeful that Liddle comes on next year but he will need back-up. I'd play Mbye off the bench to give Liddle support and have Walters and Simpkin as back-ups as well. Hooker is such a tough and critical position.

 

[happy_tiger]

However, Harry Grant appears to be a generational type talent playing in a key position, any club worth their salt should be chasing him. When he got hurt, our season unravelled.

I honestly don't agree with that and I think folks have gone off too early with Harry.

My issue with Harry is the longer the season went, the less dependable his form became. Not that it was ever bad, because I think he's unlikely to play bad football, but specifically his hooking qualities stumbled a little as the season wore on.

Maybe it was just the COVID season or his first full season in NRL that starts to take a toll. But specifically I am talking about his service and his decision-making. I think both of those aspects started to falter a little and he was guilty of holding the ball too often when he should have just been letting it sing. The best hookers get rid of the football as quickly as possible, but REALLY go when it's time to go. They don't stop and think about it, which is killer being that close to the defensive line.

There was a very noticeable up-swing in momentum when Liddle returned to the side and his all-around speed made an impact - both run speed and distribution speed. He just got the ball moving. The back end of our season was hallmarked by late-game rushes of points and I believe this was partially influenced by the increase of tempo from Liddle.

What I won't criticise Harry about is his toiling ability, to just toil away tackling and chasing the football. That is high quality and I think his major contribution. People notice Harry because he's always around the football. He's clearly a smart footballer.

I think he's very similar to Brandon Smith, who I don't believe is really a hooker. Harry is more hooker-style than Smith on account of his size, but he has that same toiling smart football about him. But I do have question marks on him touching the football every set for 24 rounds. You could certainly do worse than have Harry going around, but there's a very particular skillset a la Koroisau or Cook that Grant doesn't have, that decisive speed in attack. Liddle is more that kind of footballer, even if he lacks the physical stature and tenacity of Grant at this stage.

Also yet to see much of a kicking game from Harry.

I'd definitely re-sign the guy but I just think we need to temper our reactions to his first 10 weeks, which were great, to his last 10 weeks - injury notwithstanding - with the mindset of trying to predict a career-long outcome. Debutants can often start their careers really well in the first half-season, but that doesn't necessarily equate to what you are going to see career-long.

I definitely think it's too early to call him a generational talent.

Think you’re underestimating how smart he is with the footy in his hands. Constantly drawing markers and giving our forwards more room and always picks the right passes. He’s the guy you want picking the ball up when there’s a half chance because most of the time he creates something for you.

Liddle either passes off the deck or runs, he doesn’t have that evasiveness in his game that draws markers and opens up room for his team mates. It’s a skill that can be learned but Harry already has it, learned off the best in the game.

Good example is the comeback vs manly. Doueihi made thag good run and Harry got the ball and instantly fired it out wide knowing there was an overlap. Garner almost ruined it but Harry picked it back up and fired it wide again creating the try. He’s a very very smart footballer and although he might not be a once in a generation player, he’s going to be a top 3 hooker for the next 10 years Barring injury

I still think Liddle is a great little player and I’m keen to see him play more for and continue to develop. He’s very fast and plays eyes up footy, I hope our forwards give him room to run because he could become a Damien cook like player, I remember his game vs roosters where he scored he was excellent

Don’t agree entirely with what you are saying. The Wests Tigers looked the sharpest when both Harry and Liddle were on the field. Harry was at lock, I think, and Liddle was dummy half. Attack was crisp and penetrating. Liddle was definitely faster out of dummy half than Grant. I’d love to have both again.

Liddle is certainly a quicker player and has faster service but Harry creates more for sure. That’s why having Liddle at hooker and Harry as a ball playing lock worked so well

People need to give Liddle a full season at dummy half before they pass judgment on his capabilities in that position. Harry got the chance to do so, how about giving one of our own that same opportunity.

He will ...but will he manage to get through it

 

[hodgo]

There's lots of valid points here for sure but 2 things people need to take into account imo are
If Harry is available you have a crack but we it really isn't a position of need. Secondly, statistically nofo doesn't deserve an extension. Controversial I know but his defensive stats counter his offence. He was poor defensively but brilliant offensively. Levels out imo

Probably agree, but he has been very loyal to the club and would be good enough to play with any NRL team.
We talk about culture, this would be the club showing a bit imo.

Totally agree would hate to see him go bleeds for us. Just think he is on what he is worth.

 

[Tigerlily]

However, Harry Grant appears to be a generational type talent playing in a key position, any club worth their salt should be chasing him. When he got hurt, our season unravelled.

I honestly don't agree with that and I think folks have gone off too early with Harry.

My issue with Harry is the longer the season went, the less dependable his form became. Not that it was ever bad, because I think he's unlikely to play bad football, but specifically his hooking qualities stumbled a little as the season wore on.

Maybe it was just the COVID season or his first full season in NRL that starts to take a toll. But specifically I am talking about his service and his decision-making. I think both of those aspects started to falter a little and he was guilty of holding the ball too often when he should have just been letting it sing. The best hookers get rid of the football as quickly as possible, but REALLY go when it's time to go. They don't stop and think about it, which is killer being that close to the defensive line.

There was a very noticeable up-swing in momentum when Liddle returned to the side and his all-around speed made an impact - both run speed and distribution speed. He just got the ball moving. The back end of our season was hallmarked by late-game rushes of points and I believe this was partially influenced by the increase of tempo from Liddle.

What I won't criticise Harry about is his toiling ability, to just toil away tackling and chasing the football. That is high quality and I think his major contribution. People notice Harry because he's always around the football. He's clearly a smart footballer.

I think he's very similar to Brandon Smith, who I don't believe is really a hooker. Harry is more hooker-style than Smith on account of his size, but he has that same toiling smart football about him. But I do have question marks on him touching the football every set for 24 rounds. You could certainly do worse than have Harry going around, but there's a very particular skillset a la Koroisau or Cook that Grant doesn't have, that decisive speed in attack. Liddle is more that kind of footballer, even if he lacks the physical stature and tenacity of Grant at this stage.

Also yet to see much of a kicking game from Harry.

I'd definitely re-sign the guy but I just think we need to temper our reactions to his first 10 weeks, which were great, to his last 10 weeks - injury notwithstanding - with the mindset of trying to predict a career-long outcome. Debutants can often start their careers really well in the first half-season, but that doesn't necessarily equate to what you are going to see career-long.

I definitely think it's too early to call him a generational talent.

Think you’re underestimating how smart he is with the footy in his hands. Constantly drawing markers and giving our forwards more room and always picks the right passes. He’s the guy you want picking the ball up when there’s a half chance because most of the time he creates something for you.

Liddle either passes off the deck or runs, he doesn’t have that evasiveness in his game that draws markers and opens up room for his team mates. It’s a skill that can be learned but Harry already has it, learned off the best in the game.

Good example is the comeback vs manly. Doueihi made thag good run and Harry got the ball and instantly fired it out wide knowing there was an overlap. Garner almost ruined it but Harry picked it back up and fired it wide again creating the try. He’s a very very smart footballer and although he might not be a once in a generation player, he’s going to be a top 3 hooker for the next 10 years Barring injury

I still think Liddle is a great little player and I’m keen to see him play more for and continue to develop. He’s very fast and plays eyes up footy, I hope our forwards give him room to run because he could become a Damien cook like player, I remember his game vs roosters where he scored he was excellent

Don’t agree entirely with what you are saying. The Wests Tigers looked the sharpest when both Harry and Liddle were on the field. Harry was at lock, I think, and Liddle was dummy half. Attack was crisp and penetrating. Liddle was definitely faster out of dummy half than Grant. I’d love to have both again.

Liddle is certainly a quicker player and has faster service but Harry creates more for sure. That’s why having Liddle at hooker and Harry as a ball playing lock worked so well

People need to give Liddle a full season at dummy half before they pass judgment on his capabilities in that position. Harry got the chance to do so, how about giving one of our own that same opportunity.

He will ...but will he manage to get through it

I hope so happy I think Madge has managed Jacob’s injury comeback well and a full pre -season leading into 2021 will work in his favour. I personally think Jacob has more to offer than Harry.
Will be interesting to see how Harry goes with Melbourne next year with the dreaded second year syndrome after teams have had the opportunity to picked his game apart in the off season.

 

[happy_tiger]

However, Harry Grant appears to be a generational type talent playing in a key position, any club worth their salt should be chasing him. When he got hurt, our season unravelled.

I honestly don't agree with that and I think folks have gone off too early with Harry.

My issue with Harry is the longer the season went, the less dependable his form became. Not that it was ever bad, because I think he's unlikely to play bad football, but specifically his hooking qualities stumbled a little as the season wore on.

Maybe it was just the COVID season or his first full season in NRL that starts to take a toll. But specifically I am talking about his service and his decision-making. I think both of those aspects started to falter a little and he was guilty of holding the ball too often when he should have just been letting it sing. The best hookers get rid of the football as quickly as possible, but REALLY go when it's time to go. They don't stop and think about it, which is killer being that close to the defensive line.

There was a very noticeable up-swing in momentum when Liddle returned to the side and his all-around speed made an impact - both run speed and distribution speed. He just got the ball moving. The back end of our season was hallmarked by late-game rushes of points and I believe this was partially influenced by the increase of tempo from Liddle.

What I won't criticise Harry about is his toiling ability, to just toil away tackling and chasing the football. That is high quality and I think his major contribution. People notice Harry because he's always around the football. He's clearly a smart footballer.

I think he's very similar to Brandon Smith, who I don't believe is really a hooker. Harry is more hooker-style than Smith on account of his size, but he has that same toiling smart football about him. But I do have question marks on him touching the football every set for 24 rounds. You could certainly do worse than have Harry going around, but there's a very particular skillset a la Koroisau or Cook that Grant doesn't have, that decisive speed in attack. Liddle is more that kind of footballer, even if he lacks the physical stature and tenacity of Grant at this stage.

Also yet to see much of a kicking game from Harry.

I'd definitely re-sign the guy but I just think we need to temper our reactions to his first 10 weeks, which were great, to his last 10 weeks - injury notwithstanding - with the mindset of trying to predict a career-long outcome. Debutants can often start their careers really well in the first half-season, but that doesn't necessarily equate to what you are going to see career-long.

I definitely think it's too early to call him a generational talent.

Think you’re underestimating how smart he is with the footy in his hands. Constantly drawing markers and giving our forwards more room and always picks the right passes. He’s the guy you want picking the ball up when there’s a half chance because most of the time he creates something for you.

Liddle either passes off the deck or runs, he doesn’t have that evasiveness in his game that draws markers and opens up room for his team mates. It’s a skill that can be learned but Harry already has it, learned off the best in the game.

Good example is the comeback vs manly. Doueihi made thag good run and Harry got the ball and instantly fired it out wide knowing there was an overlap. Garner almost ruined it but Harry picked it back up and fired it wide again creating the try. He’s a very very smart footballer and although he might not be a once in a generation player, he’s going to be a top 3 hooker for the next 10 years Barring injury

I still think Liddle is a great little player and I’m keen to see him play more for and continue to develop. He’s very fast and plays eyes up footy, I hope our forwards give him room to run because he could become a Damien cook like player, I remember his game vs roosters where he scored he was excellent

Don’t agree entirely with what you are saying. The Wests Tigers looked the sharpest when both Harry and Liddle were on the field. Harry was at lock, I think, and Liddle was dummy half. Attack was crisp and penetrating. Liddle was definitely faster out of dummy half than Grant. I’d love to have both again.

Liddle is certainly a quicker player and has faster service but Harry creates more for sure. That’s why having Liddle at hooker and Harry as a ball playing lock worked so well

People need to give Liddle a full season at dummy half before they pass judgment on his capabilities in that position. Harry got the chance to do so, how about giving one of our own that same opportunity.

He will ...but will he manage to get through it

I hope so happy I think Madge has managed Jacob’s injury comeback well and a full pre -season leading into 2021 will work in his favour. I personally think Jacob has more to offer than Harry.
Will be interesting to see how Harry goes with Melbourne next year with the dreaded second year syndrome after teams have had the opportunity to picked his game apart in the off season.

Being at a completely different club will actually assist with harry's progression

 

[PabloX]

However, Harry Grant appears to be a generational type talent playing in a key position, any club worth their salt should be chasing him. When he got hurt, our season unravelled.

I honestly don't agree with that and I think folks have gone off too early with Harry.

My issue with Harry is the longer the season went, the less dependable his form became. Not that it was ever bad, because I think he's unlikely to play bad football, but specifically his hooking qualities stumbled a little as the season wore on.

Maybe it was just the COVID season or his first full season in NRL that starts to take a toll. But specifically I am talking about his service and his decision-making. I think both of those aspects started to falter a little and he was guilty of holding the ball too often when he should have just been letting it sing. The best hookers get rid of the football as quickly as possible, but REALLY go when it's time to go. They don't stop and think about it, which is killer being that close to the defensive line.

There was a very noticeable up-swing in momentum when Liddle returned to the side and his all-around speed made an impact - both run speed and distribution speed. He just got the ball moving. The back end of our season was hallmarked by late-game rushes of points and I believe this was partially influenced by the increase of tempo from Liddle.

What I won't criticise Harry about is his toiling ability, to just toil away tackling and chasing the football. That is high quality and I think his major contribution. People notice Harry because he's always around the football. He's clearly a smart footballer.

I think he's very similar to Brandon Smith, who I don't believe is really a hooker. Harry is more hooker-style than Smith on account of his size, but he has that same toiling smart football about him. But I do have question marks on him touching the football every set for 24 rounds. You could certainly do worse than have Harry going around, but there's a very particular skillset a la Koroisau or Cook that Grant doesn't have, that decisive speed in attack. Liddle is more that kind of footballer, even if he lacks the physical stature and tenacity of Grant at this stage.

Also yet to see much of a kicking game from Harry.

I'd definitely re-sign the guy but I just think we need to temper our reactions to his first 10 weeks, which were great, to his last 10 weeks - injury notwithstanding - with the mindset of trying to predict a career-long outcome. Debutants can often start their careers really well in the first half-season, but that doesn't necessarily equate to what you are going to see career-long.

I definitely think it's too early to call him a generational talent.

Think you’re underestimating how smart he is with the footy in his hands. Constantly drawing markers and giving our forwards more room and always picks the right passes. He’s the guy you want picking the ball up when there’s a half chance because most of the time he creates something for you.

Liddle either passes off the deck or runs, he doesn’t have that evasiveness in his game that draws markers and opens up room for his team mates. It’s a skill that can be learned but Harry already has it, learned off the best in the game.

Good example is the comeback vs manly. Doueihi made thag good run and Harry got the ball and instantly fired it out wide knowing there was an overlap. Garner almost ruined it but Harry picked it back up and fired it wide again creating the try. He’s a very very smart footballer and although he might not be a once in a generation player, he’s going to be a top 3 hooker for the next 10 years Barring injury

I still think Liddle is a great little player and I’m keen to see him play more for and continue to develop. He’s very fast and plays eyes up footy, I hope our forwards give him room to run because he could become a Damien cook like player, I remember his game vs roosters where he scored he was excellent

Don’t agree entirely with what you are saying. The Wests Tigers looked the sharpest when both Harry and Liddle were on the field. Harry was at lock, I think, and Liddle was dummy half. Attack was crisp and penetrating. Liddle was definitely faster out of dummy half than Grant. I’d love to have both again.

Liddle is certainly a quicker player and has faster service but Harry creates more for sure. That’s why having Liddle at hooker and Harry as a ball playing lock worked so well

People need to give Liddle a full season at dummy half before they pass judgment on his capabilities in that position. Harry got the chance to do so, how about giving one of our own that same opportunity.

Therein lies the problem

 

[BAGNF05]

I would be throwing everything at Chrichton, (fb) Flanagan, (Brooks can play 6) and Tupouniua.

That would be a nice trifecta

 

[BAGNF05]

However, Harry Grant appears to be a generational type talent playing in a key position, any club worth their salt should be chasing him. When he got hurt, our season unravelled.

I honestly don't agree with that and I think folks have gone off too early with Harry.

My issue with Harry is the longer the season went, the less dependable his form became. Not that it was ever bad, because I think he's unlikely to play bad football, but specifically his hooking qualities stumbled a little as the season wore on.

Maybe it was just the COVID season or his first full season in NRL that starts to take a toll. But specifically I am talking about his service and his decision-making. I think both of those aspects started to falter a little and he was guilty of holding the ball too often when he should have just been letting it sing. The best hookers get rid of the football as quickly as possible, but REALLY go when it's time to go. They don't stop and think about it, which is killer being that close to the defensive line.

There was a very noticeable up-swing in momentum when Liddle returned to the side and his all-around speed made an impact - both run speed and distribution speed. He just got the ball moving. The back end of our season was hallmarked by late-game rushes of points and I believe this was partially influenced by the increase of tempo from Liddle.

What I won't criticise Harry about is his toiling ability, to just toil away tackling and chasing the football. That is high quality and I think his major contribution. People notice Harry because he's always around the football. He's clearly a smart footballer.

I think he's very similar to Brandon Smith, who I don't believe is really a hooker. Harry is more hooker-style than Smith on account of his size, but he has that same toiling smart football about him. But I do have question marks on him touching the football every set for 24 rounds. You could certainly do worse than have Harry going around, but there's a very particular skillset a la Koroisau or Cook that Grant doesn't have, that decisive speed in attack. Liddle is more that kind of footballer, even if he lacks the physical stature and tenacity of Grant at this stage.

Also yet to see much of a kicking game from Harry.

I'd definitely re-sign the guy but I just think we need to temper our reactions to his first 10 weeks, which were great, to his last 10 weeks - injury notwithstanding - with the mindset of trying to predict a career-long outcome. Debutants can often start their careers really well in the first half-season, but that doesn't necessarily equate to what you are going to see career-long.

I definitely think it's too early to call him a generational talent.

Think you’re underestimating how smart he is with the footy in his hands. Constantly drawing markers and giving our forwards more room and always picks the right passes. He’s the guy you want picking the ball up when there’s a half chance because most of the time he creates something for you.

Liddle either passes off the deck or runs, he doesn’t have that evasiveness in his game that draws markers and opens up room for his team mates. It’s a skill that can be learned but Harry already has it, learned off the best in the game.

Good example is the comeback vs manly. Doueihi made thag good run and Harry got the ball and instantly fired it out wide knowing there was an overlap. Garner almost ruined it but Harry picked it back up and fired it wide again creating the try. He’s a very very smart footballer and although he might not be a once in a generation player, he’s going to be a top 3 hooker for the next 10 years Barring injury

I still think Liddle is a great little player and I’m keen to see him play more for and continue to develop. He’s very fast and plays eyes up footy, I hope our forwards give him room to run because he could become a Damien cook like player, I remember his game vs roosters where he scored he was excellent

Don’t agree entirely with what you are saying. The Wests Tigers looked the sharpest when both Harry and Liddle were on the field. Harry was at lock, I think, and Liddle was dummy half. Attack was crisp and penetrating. Liddle was definitely faster out of dummy half than Grant. I’d love to have both again.

The WT's only looked dangerous when we played low percentage football that we couldn't defend if it didn't come off


We HAVE to learn to defend our way to victory .....the razzle dazzle simply won't work long term

1000%

 

[Sart0ri]

I honestly don’t agree with that and I think folks have gone off too early with Harry.

If we had Harry I would let him control the middle like Cameron Smith does and put a half on either side of the field as the default attacking shape. A fullback who's strength is support rather than ball playing would also suit this setup.

If we had Liddle as our first choice hooker, I would play Brooks in the middle to choose the point of attack, distribute the ball and support up the middle with an allrounder half on the right and a ball playing fullback covering the left side in attack.

The strengths and weaknesses of the players in your spine should define your attacking structure. Harry and Liddle are both very good hookers but as @jirskyr says they have different strengths and weaknesses.

 

[Russell]

However, Harry Grant appears to be a generational type talent playing in a key position, any club worth their salt should be chasing him. When he got hurt, our season unravelled.

I honestly don't agree with that and I think folks have gone off too early with Harry.

My issue with Harry is the longer the season went, the less dependable his form became. Not that it was ever bad, because I think he's unlikely to play bad football, but specifically his hooking qualities stumbled a little as the season wore on.

Maybe it was just the COVID season or his first full season in NRL that starts to take a toll. But specifically I am talking about his service and his decision-making. I think both of those aspects started to falter a little and he was guilty of holding the ball too often when he should have just been letting it sing. The best hookers get rid of the football as quickly as possible, but REALLY go when it's time to go. They don't stop and think about it, which is killer being that close to the defensive line.

There was a very noticeable up-swing in momentum when Liddle returned to the side and his all-around speed made an impact - both run speed and distribution speed. He just got the ball moving. The back end of our season was hallmarked by late-game rushes of points and I believe this was partially influenced by the increase of tempo from Liddle.

What I won't criticise Harry about is his toiling ability, to just toil away tackling and chasing the football. That is high quality and I think his major contribution. People notice Harry because he's always around the football. He's clearly a smart footballer.

I think he's very similar to Brandon Smith, who I don't believe is really a hooker. Harry is more hooker-style than Smith on account of his size, but he has that same toiling smart football about him. But I do have question marks on him touching the football every set for 24 rounds. You could certainly do worse than have Harry going around, but there's a very particular skillset a la Koroisau or Cook that Grant doesn't have, that decisive speed in attack. Liddle is more that kind of footballer, even if he lacks the physical stature and tenacity of Grant at this stage.

Also yet to see much of a kicking game from Harry.

I'd definitely re-sign the guy but I just think we need to temper our reactions to his first 10 weeks, which were great, to his last 10 weeks - injury notwithstanding - with the mindset of trying to predict a career-long outcome. Debutants can often start their careers really well in the first half-season, but that doesn't necessarily equate to what you are going to see career-long.

I definitely think it's too early to call him a generational talent.

Think you’re underestimating how smart he is with the footy in his hands. Constantly drawing markers and giving our forwards more room and always picks the right passes. He’s the guy you want picking the ball up when there’s a half chance because most of the time he creates something for you.

Liddle either passes off the deck or runs, he doesn’t have that evasiveness in his game that draws markers and opens up room for his team mates. It’s a skill that can be learned but Harry already has it, learned off the best in the game.

Good example is the comeback vs manly. Doueihi made thag good run and Harry got the ball and instantly fired it out wide knowing there was an overlap. Garner almost ruined it but Harry picked it back up and fired it wide again creating the try. He’s a very very smart footballer and although he might not be a once in a generation player, he’s going to be a top 3 hooker for the next 10 years Barring injury

I still think Liddle is a great little player and I’m keen to see him play more for and continue to develop. He’s very fast and plays eyes up footy, I hope our forwards give him room to run because he could become a Damien cook like player, I remember his game vs roosters where he scored he was excellent

Don’t agree entirely with what you are saying. The Wests Tigers looked the sharpest when both Harry and Liddle were on the field. Harry was at lock, I think, and Liddle was dummy half. Attack was crisp and penetrating. Liddle was definitely faster out of dummy half than Grant. I’d love to have both again.

Liddle is certainly a quicker player and has faster service but Harry creates more for sure. That’s why having Liddle at hooker and Harry as a ball playing lock worked so well

People need to give Liddle a full season at dummy half before they pass judgment on his capabilities in that position. Harry got the chance to do so, how about giving one of our own that same opportunity.

He will ...but will he manage to get through it

He has as much chance as anyone else.

 

[WT2K]

Just listening to ABC grandstand.. Angus Crichton potentially on the market and Josh McGuire is on the market.

 

[JC99]

Just listening to ABC grandstand.. Angus Crichton potentially on the market and Josh McGuire is on the market.

Both quality players for sure. Crichton is a great player he will ask for pretty decent coin

 

[bathursttiger1]

Just listening to ABC grandstand.. Angus Crichton potentially on the market and Josh McGuire is on the market.

McGuire will go to St George and they can have the grub.

 

[WeststigsRdaBest]

Just listening to ABC grandstand.. Angus Crichton potentially on the market and Josh McGuire is on the market.

Would love Angus at either lock or on an edge....would be a fantastic replacement for garner....also seems saab and talau are pretty tight

 

[JC99]

Just listening to ABC grandstand.. Angus Crichton potentially on the market and Josh McGuire is on the market.


McGuire will go to St George and they can have the grub.

They signed that young roosters forward. Might mean McGuire is on the market, would be an easy start at lock for us.

 

[tigerfan59]

Mitchell Moses