Lockyer hitting the twilight of his career
May 5th 2008 09:42
Lockyer's career is hitting a crossroads
To all that have seen him play, Darren Lockyer is right up there with the some of the greatest players to ever grace the game of Rugby League.
For over 12 years he alone has provided fond memories and entertainment in the NRL that have simply left players and fans alike in awe.
Whether it be for the Broncos, QLD or Australia, Lockyer has always been the man others often seek for a moment of magic and inspiration.
When others have asked for assistance, Lockyer has always answered the call with great courage and skill to eventually propel his status as the games greatest player of the modern era.
The amazing thing about Lockyer in this day and age is his ability to constantly turn up and produce quality that few players can match.
His endurance level in the toughest sporting code on the planet are quite phenominal to say the least.
He has played over 34 tests for the Kangaroos and has represented his beloved Maroons 28 times.
Add all this to his 290 games of first grade for Brisbane and you have one consistently damn good player.
The man has won four grand finals under the guidence of Wayne Bennett and was the Golden Boot for the world's best player two times.
It is fair to say that this man has achieved everything Rugby League has to offer.
Even today, Lockyer is a feared opponent on the football field with teams constantly targeting him in defence to limit his input in attack. Locky still has all the tricks.
Unfortunetly though, the Broncos champion is going through a rough patch.
Since mid 2007, Lockyer has never reached the dizzying heights of years gone by.
After such a career, blessed without injury, time seems to be finally catching up to the Broncos and Australian captain.
His knee is causing him severe problems and it seems that this looks to derail his 2008 campaign.
When he has been on the field, Lockyer has hardly looked the menacing ball player that opponents are used to witnessing.
Against the Tigers alone, Lockyer clearly showcased discomfort from the opening whistle and this seemed to hinder his performance greatly.
Thankfully, the rise of Peter Wallace has allowed Lockyer some breathing space in terms of always being the focal point of the Brisbane attack.
After withdrawing from the Centenary Test this Friday, Lockyer must reach a decision on his future soon.
Like Andrew Johns before him, Lockyer will run a severe risk if he plays on in 2009.
His knee will not get any younger and the strain of weekly NRL football might be to much for the Broncos warrior.
Like i said earlier, Lockyer has achieved everything in the NRL. He has layed down his heart and soul for the Brisbane Broncos and the club looks headed in a positive direction.
Personally i think the time is right for Lockyer to hang up his boots on what has been a marvelous and majestic football career. His aura in the game will never be lost and his retirement will give him the chance to reflect on why he has been hailed as Brisbane's greatest ever player.
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