Will start by saying that we played very well as a team. Great energy, some clever moves and solid enough at the back. We all agree that the ref was a shocker. "1-0 to the referee!" has never been so true. Completely agree with Grayson's view in the post-match i/v - it could have been a real classic of a match (well, as much as an early championship match can be!) between two well-matched sides - and I believe we would've come off on top. So, here's my view (from the kop) on the players Lonegran - solid, decent shot stopping when needed and I'd say his distribution is much better than Kasper's last season. Didn't get the best view of the goal, but didn't seem there was much he could do about it. Lees - good defensively, especially given his age. Looked a bit shaky going forward but think he could be an answer to our full back issue. Bromby - seemed to be reading the game well. Emnes had him caught out a few times but against this standard of opposition, looked a decent option. Kissa - again, wasn't heavily called upon, but determined when going forward and good head compensates for what he's lost in pace but don't think he'll ever be the same player as when he first joined. O'Dea - not the ideal left back but commited. Was caught short by their wingers occasionally, would be interested to see him in the middle. Snods - looked tired. Some clever movement but not enough compared to the standards he's set. Think he'll be a real asset this season all the same. Howson - composed and lively enough until the ridiculous sending off. Makes a difference having him as captain I thought. Gradel - didn't look amazing but was hardly given a fair run at the game!! Brown - was he on the pitch? Clayton - I take back anything I've said about him. Looks a class act, commited, box-to-box, good vision in the pass - really what we've been lacking. McCormack - clever movement, but with not enough players and no one to play off of, couldn't make a difference. Would happily see him as a supporting striker/winger in the team. Thompson - thought he looked composed for his debut. Fingers crossed he can keep Brown out the team! Would be interested in your thoughts. Nunez - his clever positioning made a difference as went down to 9 men, but again, not enough. Sam - direct and was our main threat towards the end of the match, just not enough quality to save the day. Grayson - pleased with the team selection, made a point with his defensive line-up. Good subsitutions, pleased to see him put some faith in youth too - think learning that he can't rely on Bates to support the team will be the difference in making something out of this season. And on a personal note, pleased to finally meet Pags and LIW - bumped into them having a ciggie! They may appear extreme on here, but v.nice guys so show some love! Also, was anyone in the pavillion before the match?? Been chopped in half and really squeezed us all in - wasn't best pleased! Finally - fish butty at the chippy was as great as ever. All in all - not really a match we can be pleased with but encouraging signs throughout so not too disheartened.
I agree with alot what you've said. Glad someone else has noticed paddy pace has gone and lees isnt comfortable going forward. And whilst I didnt think he had a bad game, I cant stand Brown. Yeah it was great to met you mate.
Afternoon London.. A fair low down on the game there. We were ok'ish till the cards started to flow.As for subs did hear a lot moaning when SG took McCormack of.to replace him with Nunez correct me if im wrong but cant Nenez play up front as well.If so cant see why they moaned..??? The ref ruined it for both teams he was total crap..
