Headgear hinders Hyde
5:58:23 PM Tue 7 June, 2005
Paul Gough
Sportal for afl.com.au
Richmond coach Terry Wallace admits midfielder Chris Hyde has been struggling with his protective headgear since returning from the fractured skull he suffered in round five.
Hyde, who ran fifth in the Tigers' best and fairest last year, did not drop below 17 possessions in his first five games this season before the injury and twice collected more than 20 touches in a game.
But in his three matches since returning after a three week lay-off, the normally prolific on-baller has managed possession tallies of just four, eight and seven.
Hyde has worn the protective headgear since returning to the side and is expected to continue wearing the helmet until at least the mid season break in a fortnight's time.
But Wallace expects Hyde's performances to improve once the headgear comes off.
"It's always a difficult thing when you come back from a serious injury and he has battled a bit to find his footing (since coming back)," Wallace said of Hyde on Tuesday.
Wallace said Hyde was finding his protective headgear a bit restrictive.
"He will be better suited when he gets the helmet off, he doesn't have to wear it for good and they (the medical staff) said maybe just for a six week period."
"With the type of helmet he is wearing it's very insular and can’t hear that well in it."
"The game is hard enough without wearing things that restrict you but we won’t rush him but once he takes it off he will be feeling better in himself."
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