Wrestling is the key to winning the NRL in 2007
Winning the battle of the ruck has always been an important factor in the NRL. Rugby League coaches for some years now have spent more time focusing on this area.
Brian Smith during his Parramatta years was said to have regularly involved wrestling coaches at training, teaching his players the art of breaking free quickly to achieve a fast rise and play the ball.
The Melbourne Storm and more recently the Wests Tigers took this a step further and actually submitted in tackles. They would drop to the ground quick once being engaged by a defender or instead of trying to constantly tackle bust they would submit and get a quick touch footy style play the ball - allowing the back line nice advancement with the opposition well and truely on the back foot.
These tactics were combated by the NRL, who instructed referees to identify and scream SURRENDER - allowing defenders to lie on the tackled player for a longer period - thus nullifying the advantage of the submission.
Until it's outlaw last year, this tactic ultimately saw the West Tigers win the 2005 premiership - the young Tiger cubs turned this into an artform. The Tigers could even be seen in practise sessions - dropping to the ground like shot ducks when touched by would be defenders.
However with the 2007 season about to kick-off - strong indications from coaches Chris Anderson and rumblings from the Wests Tigers camp suggest that the wrestling art form will again take centre stage. Anderson when interviewed today on Radio 2KY's Big Sport's Breakfast - suggested that the best 'wrestlers' will turn out to be 2007 premiers.
The Tigers have again employed the services of a wrestling coach to improve their knowledge and skill in this area, and judging by Anderson's comments - the Roosters will be following suit.
We wait in anticipation to see if this tactic is successfully employed; will referees be able to police it? Is this why Bill Harrigan is making his comeback to first grade refereeing?
NRLnews.com will keep an eye on this area moving forward and will report the progress throughout the season.
