Dude, No Drama
The sun peeks up; some grey, red and yellow, and a few stars hang on. The cloud cover is mixed, so the sunrise will not disappoint. I sip some bitter tonic and bang out some thoughts for game day.
It is not easy to play easy. It takes patience, calm, and trust that your teammate will reciprocate. Having a lash, pushing a 1v1 that has its place, but a selfless pass in the box and a gentle tap in those work. Last week we had a mix of getting into the danger area, cleaning up an opportunity, and some class play looking for each other in space. This week more easy.
The worthy adversary is not the same team as last year; they have strengthened and had a good showing against the league leaders. We need to think defence first and work out from a position of calm strength. No drama; they had a lot last week- yellow, then two straight reds- which makes for some ruffled feathers. We should consider them aggrieved and make sure we are pass first and don’t dwell and become easy targets. Self regulation and sub if your hackles are up or your energy is down; no judgment, be humble; we have a stacked bench and can roll subs as needed.
The anointed omnipotent overload (the ref) for this voluntary attempt to overcome unnecessary obstacles is appointed by the league, and that gives us a neutral starting place. Appeal with a raised hand; integrity for lineouts and touches; we are here for the joy of the game, not to be clever or sneaky. Even if he is cute, don’t molest, accost or ask a follow-up question; we would prefer to be ignored and play.
Easy + No Drama(they had plenty last week) = FLOW. That is it, Plunderers, that’s our game; we have had 5 games, mixed results and periods of exemplary play in each. Let’s try together another 90 like we meant it.
Te Wero (the challenge)
Easy, short, simple passes; lots of talk and play for each other.
B, Double E double R, U, N… @The Dude has got em