With Cooper Cronk out injured for 2 weeks at least Craig Bellamy had no hesitation in moving Gareth Widdop to half/back.
This move should it pay off will have great dividends for the up-coming 4 nations England camp.
They (ENG) already know he can handle fullback and five/eigth (No.6) at NRL level showing matureism and ability but to now add a couple of games at halfback could place him as the most versitile player in there squad and one of the first players picked.
When Widdops name was being whispered 18 months ago as an international I was a bit doubtful, thinking he hasn't had enough experience at the top level.........that was then, now 18 months later and with more games under his belt in various positions he has shown he is more then ready IMO.
I've only ever seen him choose the wrong option once, it was a few weeks ago when he had 3 outside men against one defender and he put his boot to it with to much weight on it instead of passing it out wide.....I'm sure Bellamy has pointed this out and will put it down for experience and lesson learnt...he will be fine.
10.30 a.m Friday your time in Eng. Melbourne Vs an out of form Dragons side desperate for a win, don't miss it.
Cheers
Bellamy has confidence in Widdop..
posted on 17/8/11
I have a feeling that Gareth Widdop is going to have a very good 4 nations tournament this autumn with the progress he is making at the Melbourne Storm.
posted on 17/8/11
Big-Fella, he is no Ellery Hanley.....but a very good asset just the same and if an injury occurs during a game he will be more then capable of filling in anywhere really with-out to much disruption to the teams go forward.
I know I keep going on about it......but for the life of me I can't understand why someone from the pommie R/L isn't over here geting Jack Reed's assurance that he will represent his birth place. He is going to be something special in my books....
posted on 17/8/11
My pal over in Aus has been saying the same for ages. Sounds like a great flexible asset, hope he does well over the next couple of seasons and when his contract is up he signs for Wakefield!!!!
posted on 19/8/11
Felis......unfortunately by the time it comes for Widdop to play back home it will be well & truly entrenched into him to sign for the highest pound instead of what ever loyalties he has for back home.