bondiblue wrote:
I've insinuated in the past that Libba has failed, because the kids haven't grasped the skill of tackling, and I charge the person responsible for that at fault. I'm led to believe he's in charge of that skill, as well as the midfield, hence the inuendo.
But I have no proof.
Is there any proof that he's not done his job, or done his job?
I know he helped Bettsy through a preseason.
Maybe he is good enough and our players aren't there yet because of their level of ability (due to age or whatever).
Tackling's both a bugbear and passion of mine, Bondi (I come from a rugby union background).
On the odd times I've played footy (funnily enough, usually after a night out clubbing - go figure), the only thing I've managed to do well is tackle the ball carrier and make them stay tackled.
The way I do this is the way I played rugby - fearless, prepared to go to ground and get hurt, and with an absolute determination to stop the flower in their tracks. This, coupled with a good technique, is how to tackle in rugby.
I played as a 178cm 70kg winger and I made it my job to take down the biggest players I could - took a great delight in it
Now, the problem I have when I play footy is that the opposition isn't running towards me - they can run anywhere and in any direction they want to. This takes away a tackler's balance and momentum - hence you see so many pansy looking arm slaps by defenders.
The other problem with footy tackling is that you need to keep your feet - whereas in rugby it is desirable to stomp the flower into the ground (and get your mates to come over and stomp the flower into the ground) so you can win possession.
Finally, tackling is all but outlawed by the rules - no ankle taps, tackling around the legs, going into the back ... pathetic rules that piss me off but I understand their need due to the multidirectional style of play.
So what's this all about then? Libba may have been a tenacious tackler in close (can't remember how he played). He may have been the breakdown specialist for all I know. But I don't think this helps with general field tackling skills.
I reckon our lads need to be allowed to go to ground ON THE CONDITION that their opponent is taken to ground as well. And then ONLY ON THE CONDITION that the tackle is a 100% commitment to to take the player down - not a hand slap and token 360' twirl in the air as someone flies past.
The best way to frighten a team is to show no fear in a tackle. Even if it means the ball spills to a free opposition player on occasion - let them know that when we tackle, we tackle hard.
The players need to picture their arms clamping around the ball carrier and dragging him down like a lion drags down its prey (ok - getting weird now). Using their weight to upset their balance and arms to wrap up the ball.
Waite gets his balls busted on here because of his commitment to the tackle but that's what I want to see, although perhaps a more refined version! If the opposition KNOWS that a CFC player is going to hurt them if they get a chance, it will change the way they play their game. Even more hands off than the game is now. BUT with the fear of Wiggins NOT playing keepings off but committing to a crunch
I don't believe the players are too samll - I've seen George Gregan tackle and stop Jonah Lomu. They need to be taught to hurt, contain, indimidate and technically execute. Can Libba do that? I don't know - I reckon I could teach tackling better based on this years performances.
But any change to technique would necessitate a change in game plan - I'm certain of that. A permission to lose your feet on condition that the opposition is down as well AND that you will fight to get to your feet immediately for the next phase.
Ah crap, I don't actually have a conclusion here. Uh ...
Um ...
Basically, you've got to take pleasure in hurting people. And it's up to the coaches to instil that in them. And then you show them how to do it properly
I think ...
Login
Register
FAQ
