As I've said before, I question how many of the perceived problems in defence are in fact either problems with the balance of the pairings, or the defensive awareness of the forward lines they ice with. I'd be interested in the views of those who are lucky enough to see more games than I do.
I think that's spot on. We are seeing far too many instances of forwards disregarding their defensive duty and leaving the D men with an extra man to cope with. A lot of blame is heaped on the D but as
@James hinted out, what happens on the ice is often different to what the crowd's perception. I think what is missing is team D, not the D themselves.
As far as Batch is concerned, I am in two minds, I think it was Lordo who said that Batch was suffering from switching between D and F and that meant that he couldn't focus on just one aspect so whilst I can see the logic in moving him forward, I am not sure that is the best move.... I guess it will depend on Coughler, Jardine and also who is available and affordable as to who we get.
Some fans do like a scapegoat and I wonder if Batch is the next player in line? My view is the same as
@winstanley, he was outstanding last season and has slipped a little this season but is still solid. Certainly not worthy of some of the criticism..... Brittain - Bowns - Crawford..... maybe Batch is next as the chosen one?