I'm sure that if we'd been told at the beginning of the season that we would be 6th with 8 games left, the overwhelming majority of us would have been more than pleased. GR and the squad obviously deserve praise for the season so far.
Nevertheless, that was a poor performance yesterday against poor - albeit well organised - opponents. No doubting the effort but we lacked guile.
Long had little chance with their goal. I thought he was our best passer of the ball, which says it all really. Danny was badly at fault for the goal and was generally poor. Cresswell and Cooper had little to do defensively, but why did it take them 30 minutes to realise that they could drive forward at will? Wallace did well. Midfield had no creativity: Saville; a game to forget for him. Leonard ran around a lot but - long throws aside - produced nothing. Honeyman; some good touches but less influence as game went on. Fleming; their lad did a number on him. Bradshaw, poor but tbf outnumbered 3-1 most of the time. Three of the subs made a positive difference which begs the question why there wasn't, at least, one change at half time? Watmore's urgency and direct running raised our game. Although Wallace did ok, Malone is more assured going forward and we looked better with him on. Esse looks like some prospect. Doesn't seem bothered by the odd error; demands the ball; good close control; seems able to take defenders on on either side. Of the other two, Shack ok. Burke poor. He's quick but imo that's about it. I almost forgot Vogi which says it all.
Good season so far. Bad day yesterday. Reset and go again after the break. COYL.
