I'm not expecting to many changes either. Not expecting a significantly different result either. The thing with AW is he seems to go with what his idea of a best team is regardless of results instead of looking at what is it isn't working. Perfect example of that last season. You almost need a run of losses and then hopefully he makes changes that work so it cements in his mind. But even then he's probably going to try to change back again.
Yeah, In Webbys mind it seems like the grind is the most vital thing (which is true - 2023 was hardworking and pinning teams in the corners). The ideal team for him is a group of hardened experienced professionals who can execute that game plan. Kick to the corners, hard rushed defensive speed, Strong back three to make metres and give the forwards a break. So in theory - Capewell, Niukore, Ford, Barnett with metre eating wingers and CNK/RTS type fullback is the recipe. The problem now is that Capewell, Niukore and to a lesser degree Ford are starting to lack the physicality and two way game (both offensive and defensive) that we need to remain competitive. ALL TEAMS NEED TO PLAY A FORM OF THIS GAME PLAN BUT WE DON'T HAVE THE CATTLE.
The intensity his game plan requires is not something we now possess. Look at Yeo, Sorensen, Martin etc from Penrith, these guys are intensity two way machines! We are not like that, we need to try and be like that but also realise our DNA is a little different, and let our youth and xfactor players loose.
I now do not believe we can rely on the 2023 game plan that did us so well. We don't have the cattle to execute it. We need to do our best in that style but supplement that style with our own strengths. Until Webby accepts we don't have the cattle to execute this the required standards he will continue to chase the gold at the end of the rainbow. We just exhaust our players and end up getting spanked because we start to crack as the pressure we attempt to exert on other teams ends up causing us to crack and get exhausted.
If we can beat Manly with this game plan I will eat my words but I think what I am saying is true. Webbys biggest test as a coach is starting here against Manly. It is not just who will play, but am I prepared to change the way I have the team play? The sooner he wrestles with this question, the better.
