I wonder what the mindset is with several players taking sideways kicks for shots on goal even when in front of goal.

I find it strange mainly because they have been working on their kicking with Choco a lot this year.

Earlier in the year, one of the broadcasters pointed out that set shot accuracy from sideways kicks is higher than for straightfoward drop punts. That may be why.

However, that data needs to be looked at more closely. I suspect that the accuracy varies greatly with distance from goal. Tom McDonald was too far out for a sideways kick where I suspect the odds favour a straight run in. (Although I accept it worked for ANB). 

The set shot Tmac did it on was stupid. He is a great set shot and it was fairly straightforward for him. 
 

From a boundary shot. Go for it.

15 minutes ago, Gorgoroth said:

The set shot Tmac did it on was stupid. He is a great set shot and it was fairly straightforward for him. 
 

From a boundary shot. Go for it.

Yep 35m out on a 45degree angle on the right side of the ground, drop punt for sure, especially Tom he has a great set shot, terrible kick in General play but great set shot. 

When McDonald took that shot the wind was blowing right across the ground (and immediately into my face), I wonder if that played into it after a couple of set shot misses in recent weeks.