Quite a tough evening for the lads and this just shows how difficult it is playing teams near to the bottom at this time of the season. Northampton used intimidatory tactics as they knew we were the better foootballing side. I must say the ref seemed very lenient at the start (a late and high tackle on Whalley in the first few minutes did not get the booking it deserved) and I think that set the scene for what happened in the second half. The ref cannot be blamed for the sendings-off as, like most of us, he was watching the ball and turned to see two players fighting on the floor. On seeing the start of the incident on Sky sports it is clear O'Toole ran some distance, grabbed Abu around the neck, hauled him to the floor and punched him first. As the first contact was in the box while the ball was in play it was actually a penalty if it had been spotted. I hope the League review that footage and give O'Toole a longer ban than three games as it was the worst example of thuggery on the pitch I have seen in years. I would not criticise Abu too much - we know he plays with passion and it is understandable he will want to defend himself if he is punched multiple times. Also, well done to Alex and Tote who acted impeccably as peacemakers in a situation which could well have got out of hand and led to multiple red cards.If the rumours about racial abuse are true I hope that is lodged with the League so they can look into it properly.
As for the game itself they scored with a fine finish (and their first real attempt at goal) after we had dominated territory for a long period. We kept our heads when 10 on 10 and Nolan scored with a cool finish. It was good to see Tote back on form but Bryn for me was MOTM for surely his best game in a Town shirt (and boy do we need him now). Interesting to see how the manager will rejig the midfield but I would like to see Nathan get a start as he has impressed me during his appearances as sub.
As for the game itself they scored with a fine finish (and their first real attempt at goal) after we had dominated territory for a long period. We kept our heads when 10 on 10 and Nolan scored with a cool finish. It was good to see Tote back on form but Bryn for me was MOTM for surely his best game in a Town shirt (and boy do we need him now). Interesting to see how the manager will rejig the midfield but I would like to see Nathan get a start as he has impressed me during his appearances as sub.
