I consider tomorrow's game to be pivotal (even this early on in the season). Good sides rarely lose two in a row and there is a big difference on the ladder between 3 - 3 and 4 - 2. It's also a good match up against a well coached team with plenty of experienced players. It's unlikely the Tigers will beat themselves, so we are going to have to really earn the two points. Of course, all of that is just the backdrop to opening our new state of the art spiritual home. A win first up may really kickstart something special, so we can have a genuine home ground advantage moving forward.
I think if we are to win, Mitchell Moses needs to play one of his career best games. It's a big occassion and he is up against his old side. If he does not fire, I'm not convinced we will have enough creative play to match Farrah/Reynolds/Brooks/Mbye.
I have always been critical of Moses's signing. In fact, out of all of BA's signings, I have hated it the most by a long way. He can be brilliant at times, that is undeniable, but I don't think he is a dominant 7. His mind is too fragile and he resorts to playing a rushed/panicky style of attack that induces team errors.
I have been genuinely surprised at some of the commentary around how well he has been playing this year. I think he benefited hugely from Brown's calming influence and composure in the first three rounds. Thereafter, we didn't have to play too well to beat the understrength Sharks and we were drilled by the Raiders (which certainly was not Moses's fault). When the team goes well, it is too easy to simply default and nominate the half back as one of the main reasons for the teams success (the precise same thing happens in reverse if the team is losing). However, I don't think the plaudits he has recieved have been warranted. To me, he still lacks composure and takes the wrong options too regularly with erratic passing and kicking. Don't get me wrong though, he has had some really nice plays too this year.
I'm not convinced we should re-sign him at all, but I'm desperately hoping I'm just being biased and loyal to my original assessment of him. I would love for him to prove me (and any other doubters) wrong, and I'm thinking tomorrow is the perfect stage for a big perception changing performance.
What do you all think, am I off the mark?
Replies
And just like any game we’ve played in the past 10 years or so where there’s a big incentive to win, or a milestone game for a player etc, we will lose by 20+
He’ll have a blinder tomorrow. He’s been good this year and not panicking and rushing. No doubt though he’d benefit from having one D Brown out there with him. Let’s hope they get back on the park together soon. Even though Norman’s being going good with the Saints I wouldn’t want him back.
Moses should be getting the ball after an offload or quick play-the-ball. Instead Gutherson is hogging it and padding his stats with a 15 metre run (but no linebreak).
Mitch has been terrific this year, he has done the simple things right and hasn't felt the need to go for the big play anywhere near as often as he used to. He still has the flash of brilliance in him, and yes the odd brain fart, but the difference between his best and worst games is much closer than it used to be.
The fact remains he is still our most dangerous creative asset, we'll go as far he takes us. It should also be remembered that he is still only 24, his best footy is still ahead of him. The game is only now just starting to slow down for him.
I must confess, I didn't realise he is still so young. That is significant. Hopefully he matures to be the dominating half he wants to be.
I agree, he has been better this year and is not going for the miracle ball in every set. I just don't think he has been much better than fair to good. I hope he goes Boom today.
Yes Johnny he can have a good day n a bad day but i hooe we resign him still unless we get Kerry from the Roosters
With the tigers game we need everyone one to have a big game not just Moses to win because tigers going all right they have a good old side
Keary from the Roosters would be even better than Kerry.
I hope Samon steps up today, not sure if he has a kicking game, if not Reed has a fair kick, that will ease pressure of MM. We become to predictable with Mitch kicking down right side.
Samon needs to improve his running game, take the line on. I think he has the ability and talent maybe just a confidence thing.