Duffield...or Armstrong?

[Ysaye]

Back at the start of the year, Freo re-drafted Paul Duffield onto the Rookie list with pick 7. Since then, he has gone onto play a few games for us, mainly as a half back flanker or back pocket. He is aggressive and doesn't shirk an issue, but doesn't particularly have any other outstanding attributes.

The Eagles then took with their first rookie pick(15) Steven Armstrong, who has also played games for them. He has skills and pace and is not very small at 181cm. As far as I can tell he is also a hard working player and he also brought with him prior AFL experience.

IMO It is too early to tell whether Duffield>Armstrong, but regardless shouldn't we have gone for Armstrong, given that he exactly fits what we needed(And still need) in terms of team balance?

Did we recruit incorrectly? Or did we recruit correctly, according to the "Draft the best player" strategy? Should the "best player regardless of player type" strategy apply at the rookie draft level?

I am interested to hear what people outside our club think as well as Freo fans.

[coasting]

I think you are splitting hairs. I mean you are talking about the rookie list. Ultimately, I don't think either player is what Fremantle really needs. Duffield is alright but you already have how many other players who can play his role? As for Armstrong, I wouldn't call him quick or skilfull. I think he is quite slow and is disposal/decision making is questionable... but that could just be a symptom of not playing AFL for a long time. Either way, its not something I would worry about it.

[Cerpin Taxt]

I don't think you need an Armstrong type player. You've already got an assortment of midgets covering all aspects, you surely need some taller faster mids with finishing skills.