A comparison of Alex and Emmett must first recognize the different styles of the players and how their styles impact their respective teams at their midfield positions.
Each player possesses qualities which enable them to more often than not put their stamp on the game. Drawing a comparison of the two during the 2009 State Final is a little misguided as Emmett played up top for all but the final 15 minutes and Alex played in the middle during the entire match.
Had the two of them been in the middle vs each other then I would say we are comparing apples to apples, but that wasn't the case.
Move forward to the 2010 meeting between NW and IRMO during the LMC and you had both of them in the middle of the park during the entire match. If you ask me, that's a much better way to compare styles and the effectiveness of two natural midfielders.
Alex is without a doubt an exceptional and passionate player who loves to have the ball at his feet while making plays. Emmett is a playmaker who loves one touch soccer and movement without the ball. Nothing wrong with either one. They are just two completely different styles of play that more often than not get the job done in a big way for their respective teams.
If NW and IRMO should happen to find themselves playing a rematch on 5/22 in front of another 8,000 plus fans, the match within the match will likely be in the middle of the pitch. Very much looking forward to that if it happens.
Eye, Shirtless and Cantona keep up your passion for your players. That's what makes this game so great for fans and players alike.