Crusaders 2016 and 2017
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<blockquote class="ipsBlockquote" data-author="taniwharugby" data-cid="601901" data-time="1469952739"><p>
wasnt implying they had stunted his play, more that he hasnt kicked on like I expected he would in the environment.<br><br>
He may not be up to it, but he needs to 1) get some regular and consistent chances and 2) actually do something with them..he has the skillset to make it, whether he has the right mindset to do so remains to be seen.</p></blockquote>
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No dramas, but I'm saying it's actually a possibility that his growth has been stunted. I really don't think the Crusaders post 2011 has been an environment conducive to growth among outside backs. Those that have flourished have done so more through good luck than good management. I mean Nadolo was a wild punt that came good, to be fair. And he's not a winger who needs to be put away like many others, so doesn't suffer obviously through lack of opportunity like a finisher would. Historically when Crusaders wingers have looked good they've been on the end of a backline which included a quality, stable midfield. And we haven't really had that since 2011 when, surprise surprise, Guildford and Maitland looked good and scored plenty of classic wingers tries. We have one element in Crotty but need to find a good partner for him and bed the combination in whether it's with him at 12 or 13. Then if Macilai gets games we'll see what he's made of. -
<p>The main thing with Macilai is confidence. When he's feeling confident he's very very good, but when he's down on confidence he can be very average. There was some talk up North that when his head wasn't in the right place 'injuries' would pop up.</p>
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<p>I think his injury ravaged season last year put him back a fair way. If he has a coach that will leave him in the starting lineup and give him a run of games he will come right. This coming NPC for Northland will be very important. The reason the Crusaders have re-signed him is that he is a guy that can genuinely make something out of nothing. He has some very good basics for a coach to work with - just need to keep his lid right.</p>