it wouldnt be a question of leaving the fullback back by himself to counter the monofinner... the opposition would have to compensate in the way their back line judges depth to stagger itself, in order to cover any fast breaks.

having said that.... that would be assuming its necessary. a team could stagger their backline slightly deeper than normal to cover its bases and then try to focus on stopping passes from the opposition.... this would both nullify the seagull and pressure the remaining 5 players the opposition have to play the game with who are able to tackle and maneuvre effectively to defend.

i would really like to see this trialled, out of interest, just to see how it would play out. but have a think about this. in the game at present, there are many occasions where a quick forward in fast fins might have a 2 second advantage over most players in the opposing team, perhaps their whole backline, when timed over 25m. that might be the speed advantage over a length... but over distances of say 3-4m, when acceleration has to come into play, plus pushing the puck while defenders can streamline more effectively to chase.... often a difference in speed like that can end up being very minimal. the fast player really needs to know how to use that small advantage to make it work for him.

and that situation, which we often have now, is when the fast forward has full maneuverability (spelling?) with bi-fins, can turn, jink and use a full range of skills. i wonder how much his effectiveness would be lessened by having his skillset restricted.

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