Hint. The next “evolution” is 3-5 (or more) superstars without flaws needing coverage by their team mates who allow eighteen on the ground to involve themselves in the offensive side of the game by giving little or no respite to their opposition.
We could argue our list of “superstars”, I give you
Patrick Cripps, only flaw is lack of defensive run, which he is improving off the back of more faith in the players around him.
Sam Walsh other than learning he doesn’t have to do it all, no flaws.
Adam Cerra has elevated to the realm of superstars, reaching his potential. Complete midfielder.
Charlie Curnow now embraces what he means to the team. Still enjoys individual “highs”, but prepared to sacrifice, do the hard yards and embrace his greater role.
Harry McKay has moved on from the pressures of being the spearhead and embraced a role working hard up the ground to do much more than kick at goal. Takes pressure off his scoring and adds a powerful dynamic to the team.
Jacob Weitering can overthink and get a bit of analysis paralysis, but like the team of late has simplified things of late. Is as good as any key defender in the league, Our defensive rock with a very complete game.
That is six “superstars” with more substance than many afforded the same tag around the league. I could well argue that we have another handful close to earning the moniker with performance or potential. The Richmond model relied, successfully on some very limited role players carrying out a role. We have the prospect of more talented players disciplined enough to carry out a role, but talented enough to expand upon said role.
Bringing another “star” in to the equation who is not wedded to the cause could and most likely would be counter productive. In this era focussed and invested “role players” are sometimes more valuable than stars threatening the dynamic.
