The Forward Pocket: Opposition Coaches Should Send Taggers to Fremantle Dockers’ Jordan Clark
Jordan Clark has emerged as a breakout star for the Fremantle Dockers in 2023, playing a crucial role in their resurgence. The 25-year-old has showcased his versatility and impact in various positions, but opposition coaches would be wise to send taggers to him when he plays in the forward pocket.
Clark’s Impact as a Forward
Clark has been a revelation for Fremantle in the forward line this season. His ability to create scoring opportunities, both for himself and his teammates, has made him a potent weapon. He possesses excellent skills by hand and foot, making him a dangerous proposition around goal. In the first six rounds of the season, Clark has averaged 1.7 goals per game while also contributing effectively to Fremantle’s overall attacking play. His movement and ability to find space make him an elusive target for defenders.
Tagging Strategy
Given Clark’s influence on Fremantle’s forward line, it is imperative that opposition coaches consider sending taggers to him. A well-disciplined tagger can disrupt his rhythm and limit his impact on the game. There are several reasons why tagging Clark could be an effective strategy. First, he is not the most physical player and tends to rely on his agility and skill rather than strength. A tagger who can match his speed and outmuscle him could make it difficult for Clark to get into dangerous positions. Second, Clark is still relatively inexperienced as a forward. He has played the majority of his career in the midfield and has only recently transitioned to the forward line. A tagger who is familiar with his tendencies and can anticipate his movements could exploit his lack of experience.
Impact on Fremantle
If opposition coaches successfully tag Clark, it could have a significant impact on Fremantle’s offense. Clark is one of their most dangerous scoring threats, and his absence from the forward line would make it easier for defenses to contain them. Furthermore, tagging Clark would force Fremantle to adjust their attack. They may need to rely more on other forwards, such as Matt Taberner and Sam Switkowski, or they may look to move players like Michael Walters or Andrew Brayshaw into the forward line. This could disrupt their game plan and make them more predictable.
Conclusion
Jordan Clark is a key player for the Fremantle Dockers and a major threat to opposition defenses. Opposition coaches should consider sending taggers to him when he plays in the forward pocket. By limiting his impact, they can disrupt Fremantle’s offense and gain a significant advantage in the contest.
The Forward Pocket: Opposition coaches should send taggers to Fremantle Dockers’ Jordan Clark
Jordan Clark has been one of Fremantle’s most consistent performers in the past two seasons, averaging 25 disposals and five tackles per game. The 23-year-old has also been one of the Dockers’ most damaging players, with his ability to win the ball in close and then use his speed and agility to get away from opponents. Clark’s form has not gone unnoticed by opposition coaches, who are now starting to send taggers to try and shut him down. In the Dockers’ round 11 loss to the Western Bulldogs, Clark was tagged by Bailey Smith and was limited to just 15 disposals and two tackles. The following week, against the Gold Coast Suns, Clark was again tagged, this time by Sam Collins. Clark was able to have a greater impact on the game, finishing with 23 disposals and six tackles, but he was still not able to reach the heights that he had in previous weeks. It’s clear that opposition coaches are starting to view Clark as a danger man, and they are sending taggers to try and stop him from having an impact on the game. This is a challenge that Clark will need to overcome if he wants to continue to be a key player for the Dockers. He will need to find ways to get free of his taggers and still be able to have an impact on the game. If Clark can do this, he will be one of the most dangerous players in the competition. He has the skills and the talent to be a superstar, and he could lead the Dockers to their first premiership since 2013.