If Monday was a mongrel of a session to attend, today was its antithesis. Cooler overcast conditions, plenty of sharp ball work and the opportunity to catch up with some players and staff – it all added up to a great morning to be at Saleyards. Here’s how it went down:

Split Squad

I didn’t write up a report for yesterday as only about a dozen players took the field. With the Auckland 9s squad granted a day off, the players who’ll remain in Sydney were taken through a skills session. Today, those players were given a respite from their work as the 9s squad were put through their paces. With the team heading off across the ditch, and next week heading to Alice Springs, there will probably be few days to catch the entire group at their training headquarters.

Auckland Preparations

Writing this up is a challenge. Watching the team prepare and hearing instructions is a privilege. As such there are elements of this session (and indeed other training runs) that I wouldn’t divulge. Nonetheless, there remains a wealth of feedback that can be provided to supporters without giving away any “trade secrets.”

* Grid Work

“Rapid fire” – that’s the most appropriate term. This drill advantaged the team in possession and promoted improvisation with the ball. With all players showcasing quick hands and the odd trick shot, I must admit to being surprised by some of our big boppers. Both Moeroa and Matagi showed a clean pair of heels at the end of passing rushes and Ualesi provided a magical tip on to a support after the ball had hit the ground. I have to add that Gowie just seems to make smart choices with the footy. His greatest asset sits on his shoulders.

Reward for effort – Joseph Ualesi has earned his Auckland trip.

* Structure

The 9s players were divided into a Red team and a Green team. Corey Norman featured for the Greens and Clint Gutherson took his place in the Reds. Each team worked through structured sets over fifty metres, firstly with the other watching on and then simultaneously. They became familiar with their shapes working through a set, and honed how they would attack the line in the red zone.

At this point I was able to hear BA, the tactician, at work with his analysis of 9s footy. He instructed the players about how the defence would likely react to our plays, and how we could respond to such defensive decisions. As they moved through this part of training, the coaching staff reminded the players about special tournament conditions such as the bonus zones and there seemed to be a real buzz about how sharp the squad looked.

This is how I’ll remember 2016.

Watching the team sharply execute set after set, I felt compelled to write a note to myself on the phone – “high energy”. Food for thought. The stripping of the Auckland title last year was, in my opinion, a farce. Most Eels fans can accept that the club was going to cop a punishment for the salary cap dramas. However, with teams fielding guest players, the Auckland 9s hardly meets Premiership conditions for player eligibility. I consider Parra to be the defending champions and I reckon the players have a point to prove. The passion with which they trained, and the energy so evident, reinforced my belief.

* Game Time

Having “rehearsed” their improvisation and their structure, it was time to pit the Red and Green teams against each other in a full field hit out. With both teams equally matched, it was a pretty even contest. A fun moment came when French was put into the clear on an overlap and one of the players called out “see ya later!”

Can Bev reproduce some 9’s magic in 2017?

A couple of players less familiar to fans might just announce themselves on the weekend. Honeti Tuha could prove to be a handful for defences and Marata Niukore displays serious power both with the ball and without.

* Drop Kicks!

No, I’m not hurling abuse. Every player had the opportunity to put their hand up for the goal kicking duties via a series of attempts from a range of angles. A few of the forwards like Matagi and Ualesi surprised with some sweet strikes, but I’d be surprised if the role extended beyond Norman, Gutherson or Fogarty. All in all, it was a light hearted way to finish the session.

The Rehab Group

Taka, Smith, Hasson, Vave and Pritchard spent the entire session running – various distances and intervals and with periods of stretching. They are in the group for a variety of reasons but look to be in great shape. They would have added plenty of kilometres in their legs today. I reckon fans will be impressed with how these boys will look once the season commences (Taka expects to play in the Penrith trial).

Vave will create an impact in blue and gold this year.

Thanks

I had the opportunity to speak with a number of players and staff this morning. Both Danny Alvaro and Kelepi Tanginoa were on a day off but stopped for a chat. I spoke with Marata Niukore who’s looking forward to his debut in Eels colours in Auckland, especially playing in front of family and friends. Cam King discussed 9s footy with me, especially that mix of structure and improvisation. I also caught a few quick words with Taka and Will Smith. These moments are never expected but they are greatly appreciated.

This morning was the first occasion that I’ve managed to grab a few words with Ronnie Palmer. After our greeting, he was very interested in my opinion about the pre-season. I reckon it’s a good insight into a persons character when they ask about your thoughts. It’s actually been a common denominator with the staff. One observation that Ronnie offered that I’m sure he won’t mind me sharing was how well the players mix with each other. It’s not the first time I’ve heard this, so to have it offered again only reinforces the positive vibes that can be sensed at Saleyards under Arthur.

I’d also like to extend my thanks to Joey Grima. We managed a quick chat both yesterday and today about how the squad are travelling and I value being able to bend his ear when the opportunity presents. Joey’s no fan of my clothing choices but he certainly makes me feel welcome.

Eels forever!

Sixties

PS – Geoff, you missed a ripper session today!

Some images courtesy of Parramatta Eels

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