Pearce runs the show
IT’S the Blues’ winning formula built on trust, belief and accountability.
It’s also the Laurie Daley coaching philosophy which delivered an end to eight years of Origin heartache in 2014.
With Daley declaring “this is your team”, NSW halfback Mitchell Pearce will take complete control of every Blues training and video session in the countdown to Origin I next Wednesday.
Laurie Daley last implemented the bold coaching method with overwhelming success three years ago, when Josh Reynolds and Trent Hodkinson cut video of the Maroons and led NSW team meetings, before steering the Blues to a 2-1 series win.
Alongside his halves partner James Maloney, Pearce has been charged by Daley to hold every NSW player accountable by “coaching” his Origin teammates through every attack session – he is adamant the Blues No.7 is ready for the role.
“It’s good trust (from Daley),’’ Pearce said.
“I’m at an age where I run our side at the Roosters and call most of the shots there.
“It is a style I am comfort- able with. As a rep team, you’re obviously playing with different players so we have to hit the ground running.
“It’s my job to take responsibility of the side. It’s my job to run the attack.’’
Daley admitted the decision to place the hopes of an entire state on the shoulders of his halves, and in particular Pearce, was made with intent.
“It’s a good way to build trust in this group, to have your key players run the show and then they’re more accountable than ever,’’ Daley said.
“I probably went away from it last year. The 2014 series we did that and I like to give responsibility to the halves.
“They’re the brains of the show and they’re the ones that get the team around. The more responsibility you can give them and make sure there is total clarity in their roles and they’re holding people accountable.”