08-06-2022, 10:48 PM
The fat-side winger is supposed to stay out of the contest to provide for a switch or stop the opposition’s switch. The thin-side winger is supposed to stand between the stoppage and his own goals to make sure he can intercept an opposition mid who collects the ball at top pace and runs towards goal. The days of the winger being just 1 of 6 mids are over. It’s now a role position.
You’ll note the wingers at centre square bounces don’t sprint towards the centre when the bounce takes place. They have the pace to join the contest but instead stand close to the edge of the square. They used to move in much closer to get involved, but Port Adelaide had its wingers stay back to provide an outlet and that created mayhem.
It’s easy to get footage of wingers looking like they’re unwilling to get involved in contests because they’re doing what the coach wants.
You’ll note the wingers at centre square bounces don’t sprint towards the centre when the bounce takes place. They have the pace to join the contest but instead stand close to the edge of the square. They used to move in much closer to get involved, but Port Adelaide had its wingers stay back to provide an outlet and that created mayhem.
It’s easy to get footage of wingers looking like they’re unwilling to get involved in contests because they’re doing what the coach wants.