Was it just my imagination, or did DCE step up and take more control of the team today. And didn't we look better for it. Great team effort.
Jake: discipline, discipline, discipline.
Yep, It started last week when Walker moved to 6. Cherry swapped roles, actually playing more like an actual 7 and doing the steering. Rather than being a 6 or trying to do both and over playing his hand running and not really organising real well.
Unlike 2016, there is a part of me that actually thinks DCE at 7 as an organiser and Walks at 6, could actually really really work this time around. Dont get me wrong. They are still a long way off. Hodgko is still a must for me.
But the last 2 weeks, whilst they both individually look out of place. I actually think it's what both of these stars need. To be rep players perhaps they need that little extra, to be more rounded. Walks is seeing more ball, his last pass and or kick let him down tonight. But if he can improve in those areas, as well as his support play. A Cody Walker style of 6 may not be beyond Dylan after all!
Even out in the centres he probably needs to develop that kick out wide on the run like killer had on demand.
The last 2 games, DCE actually has reminded more like the 2011 version. I think when DCE gets forced to play a more simpler game plan, now just organise, just be the kicker on the last. He still touches the ball more than that, he can't help himself and plays what he sees when it's on. But his run ratio has probably been the best it has been since 2011. And his on field organisation and kicking (whilst still lacking and looking clunky) it has also been noticeably better since the Dylan experiment returned as well.
(this time around) I feel like they would both be much much better players individually, and this team would be much better if they are forced to continue to expand their games in these positions roles.
If I was Trent I'd add Hodgko. But force DCE to be the half at certain times/ games. Move Walks into the 6 during certain times during a game to be more involved develop his kicking game.
It's not their natural thing. But it needs to be. Walks and Cherry in the halves. I am actually now seeing it.