Statistically, Farrell is light years ahead. But Currie is STATISTICALLY in the mix with the rest. But, there’s more to the game than numbers.
My point is, if Currie had a better highlight reel this season, getting the ball in space, there’s no reason why he wouldn’t be in the mix with Bateman, McQueen as those at the top of their position. He’s been 6 out of 10, steady but not game breaking.
Don’t get me wrong, I was disappointed with Currie last year. He can do more, and we should expect more. This is not a one man fan club.
But, just on the highlights that I looked at on this tread, the Salford game, you can see the merit of his game. Look at the Ratchford try in isolation, pause at 1:04, Currie offers genuine width and a threat, he’s 10 yards in with a winger and centre outside of him. Cross and Croft’s first movement is to shift right, to try and get in front of him, which leave Ratchford with a one on one with the fullback, 10 yards out.
With respect, if that was Logan Swann out there (for example), I doubt Cross or Croft would be as anxious, and Swann doesn’t have the pace or craft to make the break or find the right pass or kick to turn it into points. Currie does. The issue, we don’t get anywhere near enough momentum or “good ball” to create these chances for him, nor does he create them himself often enough.
An extension will depend on if he can turn it on behind a bigger pack and turn theory into results.
Don’t get me wrong, I was disappointed with Currie last year. He can do more, and we should expect more. This is not a one man fan club.
But, just on the highlights that I looked at on this tread, the Salford game, you can see the merit of his game. Look at the Ratchford try in isolation, pause at 1:04, Currie offers genuine width and a threat, he’s 10 yards in with a winger and centre outside of him. Cross and Croft’s first movement is to shift right, to try and get in front of him, which leave Ratchford with a one on one with the fullback, 10 yards out.
With respect, if that was Logan Swann out there (for example), I doubt Cross or Croft would be as anxious, and Swann doesn’t have the pace or craft to make the break or find the right pass or kick to turn it into points. Currie does. The issue, we don’t get anywhere near enough momentum or “good ball” to create these chances for him, nor does he create them himself often enough.
An extension will depend on if he can turn it on behind a bigger pack and turn theory into results.
I guess to be fair to Currie, the last few seasons under Price's style didn't play to Currie's strengths. I wonder if the team as a whole can sort it's defence, with a much more penetrative pack and a classic Powell attack, then might we see the Currie of old? That's a big 'if' though. We'd need to suddenly become a confident attacking side, and for Currie to put his knee anxiety to one side.
Next year is a clean sheet for everybody though, so let's see. If he can't rise to the challenge, he's not a problem for 2024.
Currently I am mainly wearing… the pack will be a completely different outfit next season. The 2 Aussies come with quite a pedigree and while that is no guarantee, I’m hoping that they bring a professional attitude which rubs off. Sparking fresh enthusiasm in players like Currie and Clark.
A professional attitude which rubs off - suit you sir!