SainterK wrote:Those thinking Raph didn't do a servicable job, answer me this, who did he play on today?
Give you a clue, he didn't kick any goals, and Raph had as much of the ball as he did.
Watch the replay, don't just focus on the couple of errant handpasses, watch his team orientated stuff, and who his actual opponent was.
Backman's job is twofold, especially the running back role that Raph plays. 1) Limit his opponent's effectiveness. I guess he did that cos I don't know who he played on and you seem pretty confident on that score SainterK, so I'll trust your opinion.
2) provide run and drive from half back. Setting up plays and linking the lines from half back through the centre. Raph is just so indecisive it frustrates. His decision at the last minute to dispose often means he's under pressure which results in a poor disposal or a turnover.
Put bluntly, I'd just as soon see just about anyone in his role right now. He's been given a fair go (from the selectors) and I reckon a decision has to be made on him. For mine he's never going to make it, and I just can't see us being a great side with him in it anymore. Prior to this year I still held out hope for him, and thought with a good run with injury he could string some good games together like Peake has and really start to believe. I hope for his sake (and the teams) that this happens but for mine it's time to exit him out.