by Snowflake Royal »
06 Jan 2023 09:38
YorkshireRoyal99 Snowflake Royal YorkshireRoyal99 I think it's a bit harsh to say McIntyre has regressed, Holmes has just surpassed him defensively. I do think McIntyre is less reluctant to try and play out from the back, whereas Holmes is very much safety first.
I think McIntyre is doing alright in the main, some strong games, some not so good games/moments, although I can't think there has been many times where I've thought he's been our best player in any game this season, whereas there's probably a few with Holmes.
IMO, much like last season Holmes' problems were Clownovic's defensive set up and a total lack of support exposing him, McIntyre has struggled this season when out at wing back and exposed to pace or asked to be attacking, or at LCB and exposed to pace into the channel behind the upfield wing back.
I don't think he's gone backward or playing badly. I just think the way he's been used exposes his weaknesses and doesn't much play to his strengths.
Yeah like any player really, just look at Joao this season. Probably hasn't got much/any "worse", he's just playing in a system that doesn't suit him. As you say, in McIntyre's case it's just a lack of pace that hinders him at times. Although solid player at this level no doubt.
Part of Joao's problem is he's fallen into a routine of trying to repeat what worked before and he's become predictable. He also looked a little sluggish and heavier for a while.
If you watch him, he's always trying to hold off and back into the defender so the ball can drop into his chest / feet and looking to let it bounce and roll them. But they know and wrestle back, jostle him at the right moment, pull him back away from the ball or nip in front.
Still looking to roll the ball back and turn and feint putting the defenders on their arse... but they're alert to it.
He needs to mix it up again.
But yeah. He could do with some decent service.