Quote: jonh "In his first year under Lam, Powell scooted more and with effect so I would say there is definitely a coaching/tactical element to it.
I think a scooting hooker has the ability to change the game up particularly when introduced off the bench, however lads like Dwyer generally give no direction to the team.
I’m not a fan of a “scooting” 9 and I personally believe the best 9s have the control around the ruck and give the team direction, but also have the ability to scoot at the right time and are able to identify that.
Roby is a great example of that. When he started out it was predominately as a scooting foil for Cunningham. His game has adapted to the master 9 he has become.'"
I don't think coaching, or tactics should come into it that much.
Or if it does, then the coach is a fool and it's worrying.
Take Cameron Smith as a perfect example, I doubt he ever topped a chart for any key hooker stats in his career. However, he more often than not, took the right option at the right time - whether that be running, passing or kicking. No coach should be telling an all rounder to not do something i.e.do not scoot etc.
The best players repeatedly do it all. If they see a marker offside, they run at them. If they see an opportunity for quick ball then they spread it and if they see an opportunity to kick, they execute it. That's what separates them from the rest. Why would a coach want anything different?
O'Neill for me "arrived" properly Vs Saints at home. He ran, distributed and controlled the game well. All he needs is more time on the pitch to recognise different scenarios and how to react.
