It was a day of innovative skill development at Old Saleyards today and TCT correspondent, Geoff, was there to catch most of the interesting drills. The introduction of opposed work, even in an abbreviated form, continues to reinforce our opinion that the squad looks ahead of previous years. Courtesy of Geoff, I can report the significant moments from the field session.

The Standard Stuff

Working through their sets with minimal opposition, this simply appears to get the players accustomed to the basic shapes used to work the play upfield. I regard this as standard because it is not uncommon to see this at training sessions throughout the year. With players that are taking the field for both Parra and Wenty rehearsing the same plays during the season, the transition to first grade is much easier.

The Football

The players were split into groups of around 9 or 10 players and engaged in an abbreviated opposed drill. This involved each team having 3 plays at their opposition. At the end of their set, just like in a game, they could opt for a kick or chance their hand. The result, on a full size field, was just like a Nines game – plenty of ball movement and the teams playing what was in front of them. Kenny Edwards was a standout in this format.

Daniel Alvaro makes a strong carry.

The Last 8

The last eight minutes of each session brings an increased focus for the players. They lift their intensity and effort, and reminders are called out that they are in the last 8. The team will be well aware of that time in a game. Expect the Eels to be competitive to the final minute.

The Extras

Assistant coach, Joey Grima, loves putting on some drills with a difference. Today, he was bouncing one football off another in what appeared to be a simulation of an awkward offload. The forward receiving the ball would then be expected to make a quick decision about the direction that the ball should go. Second phase play can often come unexpectedly and the delivery of the football is not always ideal. But when it comes, the players need to be ready to take it and then capable of using it.

There were other passing drills occurring and Normz, Gutho, Semi and The Fog practised their goal kicking.

The Standouts

Cameron King continues to press his claims.

Geoff talked up three players today. Cameron King was busy and sharp out of dummy half and as mentioned, Kenny Edwards excelled in the opposed work. Daniel Alvaro received special praise from Geoff for his exceptional commitment. One highlight was a charge down that he executed. To step it up like that at training does not go unnoticed.

A truism about rugby league – the hard work begins when you make it (just ask the elite of our game).

Eels forever!

Sixties

All images courtesy of the Parramatta Eels

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