Having travelled 13000 miles (give or take) to see the Rs back in the big time, paying 50 quid for a ticket (that used to cost a fiver when I lived in London) was not going to dampen my spirits. The result, although a massive disappointment after I predicted a 2-1 win, was not the end of the world. I saw a number of positives as well as some immediate causes for concern. Derry was a revelation. I feared for his pace but he showed he has the brain to play at this level and the passion that went missing in others after the second goal. If he stays fit, I will be pleased we didn't ship him out over the summer. Taarabt, showed some flashes of his capability and honestly, who was surprised that he lost the ball a few times in traffic. I did see him tackle back once though; he won the ball back and received due applause from most of those around me in Ellerslie Road, T block. Bothroyd looks a really good acquisition; he was a good target and won the majority of aerial battles. Looked comfortable with the ball at his feet too AND if he can avoid injury, I reckon he'll play his part this season. Got a little concerned towards the end of the game when he appeared to clutch his hamstring. Gabbidon, apart from the own goal and positioning for the fourth, looked ok. Reasonably solid and didn't make me wince every time the ball went near him. One size; different story - should dominate with his physical presence, but not quite there. Orr was looking ok til the last 20 minutes or so when Petrov started to rip him at will. Would definitely like to see more pace at the back. Faurlin was the biggest surprise for me, really expected him to step up, but he looked out of sorts and at times, the ball looked like a stranger to him. Maybe I'm being harsh, but I really rate him was surprised to see him stay on when Buz went on. Buz looked decent and always busy, good to see him back. DJ was busy but not overly effective. There were a couple of occasions when he and Bothroyd combined which could be a good sign. Smith, good to see running at the opposition and not out of place in the Prem. Covered most, but not all, but in summary, scoreline didn't reflect balance of play imo. Didn't think we'd lose until the second goal went in. Some heads dropped and we lost some shape. Lack of pace at the back was evident, hope to see some strengthening there. I may have been watching through blue and white glasses, but saw 2 decent goals and a lesson to be learnt. I took my brother in law with me. It was his first time at Loftus Road and he enjoyed the experience as a neutral. He's a Swindon fan and the last game we went to together, was our 1-0 defeat at the County Ground when Swindon had their year in the Premier League. I wouldn't want him to be an omen and am seriously considering not letting him come to Everton with me on Saturday. He is driving though!! Final note, we were contemplating a sweep on how long Dyer would last, but were still working out the rules after the match started; then it was too late. Apologies for the long post, got carried away I guess. U Rsssss
Ian: Great post mate, thank you. Btw, you wouldn't be the tall Aussie guy I was talking to coming out of the Ellerslie Road stand after the game, would you? He also said he was over for the Bolton and Everton games... if it ain't you, bit of a co-incidence eh?
G'day mate! Great post and I agree there were some positives to be had. Would have loved a draw and a win would have been superb but there you go. Any chance of importing some sunshine while you are here?
**** me dead! ('scuse the Swahili...) Imagine that! I did say to my mate that someone on here had said something about that kind of trip... I thought it was Melbourne Dave. Well I never! Anyway, nice to have met you and we'll speak again on here - many times I'm sure! No, 'fraid I can't make the Everton game. Hope you/we get a better result for your troubles Ian, you more than deserve it!
Did see some sunshine on Sunday in town. First glimpse since getting here a week ago. In the west country now and no improvement - Australian sunshine has abandoned me!! Hopefully it'll turn up for Saturday for the drive to Merseyside.
Good post mate. I think that's the first time anyone's mentioned Bothroy's injury! I was also in Ellerslie Rd (S block) and a very loud groan went up as he pulled up near the end. Anyone know if he's out with a hammy?
Good post Ian, are you Aussie or ex-pat? PS. Hope you get a better result up there, a long way to come for 2 defeats!
Don't worry Ian me and a few mates are going to Goodison,fancy the boys might just get something out of this one.Went up there in 96,we lost 2-0 and i got so wrecked after the game i missed the train and stayed all weekend.There not a bad lot up there,at least they used to be.Hope you enjoy the game and we might bump into each other.I will come on later in the week and let you know which pub we will be in.
Ex-pat, moved in Feb 1996 - saw the writing on the wall. Have followed Rs since 74 and went to most games between 83 and 86 when I lived in London. I get back every couple of years and try to make sure it's during the season to see at least one game. Until last year, it was almost impossible to Rs on the tv - 1 or 2 games per season max. Last year was different and now every gaMe this season will be on.
Will look out for your post. A pub recommend would be good. Also car parking would be handy as I have to get back to Bristol sharpish for a birthday party (mine). Do you know Lorna? Knew her when we both lived in Bracknell in the late 80's; she's heading there too from Hull
Great post Ian we need more of these positive comments and like you was not too surprised about the result, onwards and upwards, have a good trip to Everton.
Enjoyed your post Ian, Gonna be in Melbourne myself in September. Hope we get some of that sun!!! Enjoy your visit (especially to the toffee's)
Why this is a jolly thread! Lets all Be nice and civil from now on. Welcome Melburn thinking about moving to Aus in a year or so....id still probably make more games then swords....Sorry couldnt resist 3-1?? lol
Ian Norths has given you most of the info you need.As were going up by train we will probably be having a few in the pub that's in the station. Undecided as yet where to go after the game,but i definately intend to make it home this time round!!
