I feel as though the game has progressed to a stage now where wingers are more important than they've ever been. Obvious examples: -7 tackle 20 tap sets....decision making in this regard and ability to attack effectively from the situations - Corner posts out of play. They're expected to score even with a glimpse of the try line. - Reduction of interchange meaning middle third forwards 100% expect to skip hit ups on tackles 1-3 Discuss
Yes, based on my knowledge of the game's history, I'd say they're more important now than ever before. The work they're expected to do from their own end is by far the primary difference imo.
Yep. You can't get away with wingers like Mitch Brown anymore and teams that try too have generally struggled in that area. Bulldogs (Perrett), Broncos (Maranta), Tigers (Rankin), Warriors (Wright), Manly (Williame / Wright).
I don't think Perrett belongs in that list. Not on his overall career. He was super strong bringing the ball out of his own end.
Yeah agreed with that. I remember a few years back they did a players poll on who was the hardest to tackle and Perrett was voted the winner.
This is probably the first time in history in which wingers are more important than centres. They certainly a lot more work now. That's pretty massive.
