I rate Mata’utia.North Leeds Tiger wrote: ↑24 Apr 2021, 20:50 I don’t see what they supposedly see in him. He works hard in defence but going forward still frustrates me with his sidewards runs rather than trying to step round and through a defence.
As you say, he’s good defensively. That’s important, especially on the right edge. Most teams predominantly attack that edge, so having someone there who is strong in defence is key.
I like the fact he takes carries in our own half. He’s strong and makes good metres, often on the second play after Olpherts has returned the kick. Kick returns are an important part of our game and this year its obvious that we are using the centres a lot more to to take the second carry - winger of full-back on the kick return, then Mata’utia or Shenton on the next play before we use the forwards. Those ‘sideways runs’ are designed to bring the ball centrally early in the set so we can set for the following plays - he’s doing exactly what he is supposed to do.
Finally, he has good hands when we attack the edge. The most recent example was only a few days ago - that ball out to Olpherts for his first try against Wigan was very good centre-play - he can execute the fast ‘catch and pass’ that is so important for a centre.
I’d be disappointed if he left. I don’t think we’ve seen the best of him yet as he’s not had a full season playing at right centre.
