Robert Shaw says Essendon’s move to play two genuine ruckmen against Hawthorn last Friday, helped the productivity of Joe Daniher.
The Bombers selected both Matthew Leuenberger and Mark Jamar against the Hawks, with the big men splitting their time between the midfield and attack.
Daniher had 16 possessions, took ten marks and kicked two goals as he worked alongside the ruckmen and Mitch Brown in the Dons forward 50.
“Early on in the game Jamar and Leuenberger looked reasonably dangerous,” Shaw said.
“It allowed someone deep – so they had a longer target to go to particularly early.
“It allowed Brown and Daniher flexibility.
“While it looked a little imbalanced with the two bigger, slower boys – it actually created an area for Joe Daniher to play in.
“If they weren’t there he would have been anchored to the goal square, he would have had Frawley and Gibson clinging all over him … it really developed his game.”
Daniher has booted ten goals in the last five weeks and has averaged six marks per game throughout that period.
The 22 year old is in his fourth AFL season and his output across a number of key areas is showing signs of improvement.
His disposals, metres gained, marks, score involvements and inside 50’s are all up on last season.
Shaw said Daniher is at his most effective when he’s allowed to roam.
“I think we’ve seen the continued development of Joe Daniher when he moves,” he said.
“He’s like a 6’7” half forward flanker – up the ground, up to the wing, taking marks, coming back onto his left foot, driving the ball in.”
Daniher by the numbers
Average Disposals:
2016: 12.8 2015: 10.4 Differential: +2.4
Average metres gained:
2016: 253.2 2015: 172.2 Differential: +81
Average score involvements:
2016: 5.0 2015: 4.6 Differential: +0.4
Average marks:
2016: 6.2 2015: 5.0 Differential: +1.2
Average inside 50's:
2016: 2.8 2015: 1.8 Differential: +1.0
