The video link had zero to do with "desperation" but if it makes you feel somewhat elevated and insightful i will go with it. The video link was to show the two passes(not the rest of the highlights) what kind of pass variation Foran has if allowed more freedom and the type of play an older 5/8 will display behind a decent forward pack if he was retained---this also goes to DCE)
DCE's passing variety was just as rare,(the majority of DCE's impact has been show and goes down the short side or off the back of pet play second man variations) most of our backline plays were rehearsed structures.(as is 90% of plays from most teams in the interchange era)
As for Stewart, you are overstating his organising influence due to his standing in the game---sure he picks his moments to run but that is different to organizing, all good fullbacks will call for the ball when they see numbers, Stewart's quality was in his timing and quick hands off the back of structured plays.
Thurston at Manly behind our pack would have seen Manly drop out of the 8 more so than just last year.
Thurston's performances throughout his career at the Cowboys especially in the big games along with not getting QLD up when a few injuries hit shows his limitations when quality is not surrounding him.
The big difference that allowed the Cowboys to go another level was the improvement in the forward pack, the coaching department polishing up their structures, simplifying and more direct in some areas and overall better discipline and toughness in away games for consistent performances.