Just an observation about Johncock's form.

[CrowTwig]

Did Mcleod's foot surgery have an adverse effect on Johncock's form? Johncock's form slump began when Mcleod decided to have the bursa from his foot removed. I only make this comment because they are both very good friends, and Johncock looks up to Mcleod as a mentor. Could his absence have made his confidence falter?

 

[ford71]

Its certainly possible isnt it. I've not looked at it like that.
Whatever the reason I hope he gets back on top of it all coz he was having a great year up until a few rounds ago.
But so were the team.

 

[Redline]

Johncock's form is a worry and I think you might be right. His opponents are getting plenty of it as well.

My personal opinion on the real downturn in form of some players is that as we all know its easy to play well in a winning team. Good average players lift and look like superstars when their team is winning. On the other hand real class players like Macca, Goodwin, Edwards ect can play really well at any time. It can be an experience and confidence thing as well.

Hopefully that makes sense but I wouldn't have Johncock in that top bracket and I think he suffers along with a dozen other good solid players when the side plays poorly.

 

[Drugs Are Bad Mackay?]

I disagree. I think Johncock is one of our better players when the going is tough. He handles the ball well in traffic and has a good record in finals and Showdowns.

What has changed is that he is getting dragged back to the goal line by his opponent to restrict his run and team's are setting up much better for our kick ins now which is making his job much harder. Plus the ball is coming down there twice as often as earlier in the season with no pressure on the ball carrier.

 

[Allefgib]

I see bassett as a big factor in this as well. Get him back in the side and he either provides the run Johncock can't if he is on the last line OR he can go back to the last line freeing Johncock up more.