First time I remember this was Alec Epis, who at 187 cm and 88 kg was a solid man when he played over 50 years about. His don’t argues usually ended with his opponent being carried off, but has had the ball it was play on. DescTuddenham was also good at it. He was a bit smaller at 180 cm and 80 kg, but as tough as nails.
Leigh Matthew’s was a master at it and then Tony Lockett who was about the best.
Dusty Martin excellent and this young bloke at Eagles is 187 cm and 85kg, with really good technique. Probably has older sisters and little brothers he practiced on.
Didn’t Chris Daniher give one in the 93 flag near the goal square and snagged a goal? I’d have to re watch it to confirm it was a ‘don’t argue’ but that’s how I remember it.
Being able to consistently break and stand up in tackles is arguably the number 1 skill you want in an elite player. It just opens up the whole field for your team when one player draws in and disposes of multiple opposition players, it allows his teammates to then be open.
I’m surprised more players can’t and don’t do it, surely there are guys in the comp as strong as a 19 year old Reid that should be practicing and mastering the art.
I remember after a while players would just stand off Martin not wanting to commit and get turfed away. Reid has now done it to Martin, Oliver and petracca.
I liked the way he gave the invisible don’t argue to his teammates who were calling for the ball when he knew he was going straight for the big sticks. . Interesting to see who has the bigger warchest when the time comes. Unless the AFL send him to Sydney.
The one thing missing there is having the confidence to do it. If you make a meek attempt at it and it fails, as an 18yo, you’re probably not going try again in a hurry. In Harley’s world though, nobody is safe.
Wasn’t sure where to post this & apologies if already mentioned but the 4 min video of Harley Reid’s don’t argues and breaking tackles on the AFL site is worth watching - honestly gobsmacking.
I don’t think it can be taught. You need to have confidence and cockiness to even attempt it. Coaches will rip your head off if you had a better option and then tried the don’t argue and got pinned. Unless of cause you have performed it successfully many times like Dusty and Reid.
Last year l mentioned that the blind turn was making a comeback after an absence of too many years. It is good to see more of these now being used. The Don’t Argue is another skill which will become more prevalent in the near future, much like kicking with the outside of the foot. What other skills are in need of further enhancement and development? Evasiveness. I was amazed to see Chad Warner slip through packs with nonchalant ease, evading multiple would be tacklers. He isn’t the only one who is capable, but he is an excellent exponent of the ability to make space where there is none, so he can plot an escape route.
. Interesting to see who has the bigger warchest when the time comes. Unless the AFL send him to Sydney.