Record Breakers

[saintlyhero]

Defence. The stats are obvious in that regard but I havent felt like we are a force going forward since well before xmas. Thats not to be negative for the sake of it but looking back on the season we just haven't had a great attacking threat this time. We've made it through on one goal so many times is how it feels. The only reason we can do that is that the defence has been incredible. I'm including Schneiderlin and Wanyama in there, the middle of the field has been impenetrable this season. Despite not being goal machines, I have had a great season watching the team play. The style, control and elegance with which we play has been a pleasure.

Yesterday was the first win by more than a one goal margin since New Years day
Of the 16 wins, 8 have been by one goal
30 games played 42 goals: 26 of them in the 1st 15 games(till mid Dec) - So 16 goals in the last 15 games!
Interestingly we won 8 of our first 15 games and you guessed it we've won 8 of our last 15 games (despite the goal slump)

 

[fran-MLs little camera]

When talking about the difference between seasons, we mustn't forget that there is also a lot of continuity. MP and Koeman were brought in because they suited our team, rather than bring in a manager who then spends a season or two trying to get the team to suit him. Look how long it has taken Mauricio to get Spurs onside with his style, whereas our players were ready and waiting. Les Reed replaced our departing players with others that suited Saints...whilst using Koeman's experience. Although we weren't bad last season in defence, Koeman (as you would expect) has built more on having a strong defence rather than keeping the opposition pinned back into their own area. The opposition now get into our area more, but still find it hard to score because Saints are so well drilled. However, our weakness is not scoring enough which is strange as we have good attacking players....this will be the area Ron will work on next season I'm sure.