The forward line has been a problem for about ..ever.
We have recruited about 16 backmen and have two bona fide forwards in Tabs and Walters. With secondary players like Watson, Duman, Hughes, Concha, Logue and Thomas all capable of being developed in defence to join Hamling, Cox and co, its time to think totally outside the box and play our quality players in the forward line. Im talking about Nathan Wilson, Hayden Young, Heath Chapman and particularly Luke Ryan.
I know the argument, Ryan won all Australian at half back but half backs are dime a dozen, particularly at Freo and Ryan is footy smart, tough, fast, agile, good overhead, reads the play and a great kick. He would make a perfect half forward. Develop him and say a Chapman to complement Tabs in the air, then the Sturts, Henrys, Fredericks, Walters and Schultzs will come into play.
Ryan forward is the key move.
It wont happen of course, because for some reason, Freo has a philosophy of playing their best players in defence.
If they dont use Ryan then it will have to be Cox, regardless of his views of playing forward. Hes not that good down back to warrant the coach listening to his views about where he wants to play.
