This is why I said "maybe". I agree that Ron is more likely to change things but WBA showed that a defensive strategy works. I'd also posit that it's possibly the only strategy for non top 6 teams that really works against us at St Mary's. Not every time, by any means, but it created a few frustrating times last season. Of course, the scenario that always haunts opponents going for 0-0 is that if we score, they simply have to try to get it back at which point our midfield takes over and we can turn it into a rout. I love supporting Saints. So much. I realise it when I remember how we play. Not always the results but how we play. We play to win and it's marvellous to watch. I have goosebumps (honestly). Vin
I will be taking off from Mauritius to Dubai at kick off so hopefully will land six hours later to some good news lol
I pleased with what I have seen so far from Ron's saints, but this game could well be one of frustration. I can see us dominating, but not putting chances away, if we've not scored after the 70 minute mark, nerves are going to set it big time. Hope we start like we finished at West Ham.
I think Ron has a bit of 'steel' to us that has been lacking; for me there is some hunger now from this squad; bet they are sick and tired of reading how they are not as good as last seasons squad...
Confident going into this one, but only because Newcastle were so poor here last season. Though we played well, they just seemed totally disinterested. We were both in a similar position last season, couldn't get Europa but couldn't go down. Whilst our departing players and manager seemed determined to not ruin their future career prospects and finish the season strongly, Newcastle looked like they were at the preverbal beach. From the few highlights i've seen of them this season they have skilful and quick players, but whether they have the work rate and defensive discipline to put in a good away display i'm not so sure. Newcastle always seem the classic Home great Away **** side. Something we were often renounced for and probably still are. Looking forward to seeing the new signings and hopefully a carnival atmosphere at St Marys
So bored with the prospect of no Saints at the weekend, earlier I watched MOTD2 Extra from last Sunday lunchtime. The conversation wasn't about ManU, which was a plus. On illustrating a point, Martin Keown mentioned he heard Ronald Koeman say to Saints at half-time against WHU, that he wanted the lads to play to win, rather than not getting beat. A point he was hugely impressed with, and which showed the correct mentality to continue in this league. All good, as far as I'm concerned. And apologies, but that's the best news I can come up with, this evening.
I think we'll get the win, feels right for some reason.We have good competition for places, players will be well up for this I reckon. I expect Pelle to score again.
This season we mustn't get too high when we win, too low when we lose (Copyright: the bespectacled one). I'm sure we will be in a good position by the end of the season.
I know...look how down people were after the WBA draw and then how high after one (admittedly good) win. I feel the future is promising though...so I am going to try and be firm with myself.
I know, it just bothers my subclinical OCD when the match thread opens and we also have "team for" and "expectations" threads running. I like it neat and tidy!
As long as its got a form guide with colours! And details of newcastles summer ins/outs! EDIT: I can't get officially stoked until the match thread
