Quote: Cherry.Pie "Johstone is a fair call, he's quality. He did get dropped earlier in the season supposedly for not playing well enough but I haven't seen enough of him this year to know why Chris Chester made that call.
In terms of creating chances, I mean when Marshall makes a break it doesn't end with him, as it does for quite a few highly rated wingers. In my opinion when Marshall makes a clean break he's better than most of his rivals at creating a try scoring opportunity out of it, even if he doesn't finish the move himself. His ability to kick the ball accurately at pace, pick out accurate passes to supporting players and produce offloads in the tackle is something that shouldn't be overlooked. I know there's more of a focus these days on being flawless defensively and making good carries (and that's what makes Davies so impressive) but Marshall's attacking game is definitely worthy of high praise.
With regards to tackles we can agree to disagree. I happen to think it's an aspect of his game that he's greatly improved this year. I don't think Marshall has the same potential as Grace though, and I think Marshall will never properly become number 1 winger at a top Super League club simply because he's always compensating for his lack of size. No matter how well he plays there is always a greater chance that he'll be beaten in the air or overpowered by a bigger winger. I do like that Marshall doesn't let his head drop, and that after a bad mistake against Wire he responded with some good takes under pressure. I just don't think the effort will be enough to reach the level of consistency required.'"
Well put. I respect your opinion on this. I don't fully see how you can justify the 'breaks don't end with him' 'kick the ball accurately at pace' etc but I will say this, he's one of few players in attack who gets me off my seat when he's in open space, has the pace and ability to make something happen, and often find the try line, his attack has never been an issue with me.
In terms of age, in puts it into comparison when you look at other players around the same age as Marshall. Davies and Grace are younger, Burgess is only a year older. Whereas the likes of Tom Johnstone, Greg Minikin, Ash Hanley are all the same age, all are more complete outside backs.
I agree re the comments of how Marshall will never be a top 1st choice winger. Which is a crying shame. I'd love a winger from wigan to be the best around.