stevied
Well-known member
First of all, let me state that I am an unqualified and loyal Tigers supporter and that I don't criticise the club for the sake of it. However, I have to be honest and say Wests have been a major dispppointment in the 6 years since they won the comp. There's been a multitude of injuries in key positions since 2005, including the ones to Benji early on, but this doesn't excuse the constant mediocrity. You could excuse the complacency amongst the young players in 2006 after they'd won the premiership but since then the mental side has become a constant issue. In 2011, there is a major problem with attitude and the job of instilling this lies with the coach. I agree with another comment that compared the discipline of last year's team where they won lots of close, arm wrestling games to this year's side that seem to rely too much on individual flair and lateral movement. Over and over again, the Tigers waste the first four tackles in order to set up the big 5th or last tackle move. All that switching and handing off to a forward who simply dies with the ball is a waste of time. The forwards need to be told to fire up, stand deep and run straight and hard! Benji and Rob Lui do not gel because they are too similar. Both are natural five eighths and the halves combination should be Jacob Miller and Benji. Again, I agree that players need to be dropped for play that is below first grade standard. I like Lui for his flair and passing but his defence is a liability. Why isn't he dropped? McKinnon's fullback play lately has been substandard. If Mullaney's playing well, why not look to the future and give him a shot? The Tigers can't do any worse and a shot of youth might be what the team needs.Can someone please tell me why Fifita was let go? Was it attitude? I think this was a monumental mistake because, to me, he is a phenomenal talent and a future Australian prop. I hope it's all rumours but how can they consider releasing Heino? He's been the Tigers's best forward this year and a tireless worker. He's the heart and soul of the club! Finally, I've liked Sheens for his attacking philosophy and ability to develop young players. However, not every coach is a Bennet, able to stick around for 10+ years and continue motivating his players. Has the Fonz outstayed his welcome? :sign:
