If practiced, snap it
Johnson is confident the snap kick is the shot to do when the angle is tight
After Jimmy Bartel and Harry Taylor chose a snap around the body from tight angles in the dying minutes of the Cats’ loss to Adelaide on the weekend, many have questioned their choice.
With the snap a topic of interest and public scrutiny this week, Steve Johnson took to Twitter today to weigh in on the debate.
“Can’t believe the scrutiny over players choosing to snap over kicking a drop punt if on favoured side,” Johnson tweeted.
“Could explain in detail as to why it’s the better option but will stop by saying I am certain the percentage is higher by opening up angle.
“As long as it’s been practised, I have no doubt the goal ratio will be higher if that’s what the player is most comfortable with.
“My advice, don’t change because some traditionalists think it’s wrong, do what you know is right and accept responsibility if you miss knowing you gave yourself the best chance of kicking a goal!”
Previously Johnson has told afl.com.au you must put yourself out there and do what’s best to increase your chances of the kick resulting in a goal.
“You’ve got to put yourself out there for scrutiny if they don’t come off because everyone is going to look at you and think that you’re lairising.
“I would be quite comfortable going back and kicking a drop punt because if you miss you aren’t going to get the scrutiny.
“I guess when you miss one it does look really bad, like you’re showing off but really it’s what I see as a percentage kick for me.”
Also speaking to afl.com.au, Harry Taylor said he favours the snap around the body technique when kicking from an angle.
“For me personally, it feels as though there’s more of the ball to hit.
“It always feels as though the goals are wider when you can use an arc type kick.
“Stevie is very good at it; we’ve also got some other players who are fast at catching on in terms of their ability to kick those goals.”
Then again, Joel Selwood admitted to afl.com.au it would be the drop punt every day of the week for him as he finds it an easier kick from most positions.