James Tedesco of the Roosters
Brad Fittler, a revered figure at the Sydney Roosters, sheds light on the factors contributing to James Tedesco’s recent downturn in form. Despite a late-season resurgence that propelled the team into the top-eight and secured victory against the Cronulla Sharks in the opening round of the finals, the Roosters failed to maintain their dominant form of previous years, falling short against formidable opponents like the Panthers, Broncos, Storm, and Warriors.
One significant factor behind this decline was the subdued impact of James Tedesco, the team’s representative fullback for both New South Wales and Australia. Tedesco’s statistical output notably decreased compared to his previous season, with averages of 185 run meters per game, 15 line-breaks, and 11 try-assists.
Fittler’s analysis was echoed by NRL Immortal Andrew Johns, who attributed Tedesco’s struggles not solely to individual performance but also to the team’s overall dynamics and challenges.
Furthermore, Tedesco faced difficulties in the State of Origin arena, prompting criticism and calls for his replacement by Dylan Edwards, a three-time premiership winner and recipient of the 2022 Clive Churchill Medal.
According to Johns, Tedesco’s struggles were exacerbated by the team’s predicament, as he found himself assuming roles typically held by front-rowers and halfbacks while endeavoring to maintain his effectiveness as a fullback.
