Shroppie

Gorre Blimey. Wotte's going on?

Perhaps we could have Delap in part exchange . Apparently he's got a wicked long throw.

Can't see this anywhere else. Reported that Stoke are prepared to offer £1.5 M in January. Would have thouhgt he was worth twice that, but I expect we'll grab it and run. http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/gossip_and_transfers/default.stm

should be 4-2-4 by now

2-3 We miss the chance to draw by failing with a 3rd pen in the last minute

Don't confuse optimism with hysteria.

Why do I feel so pessimistic?

I agree with pretty well all this. James IS a weak link, and if I can see that, so can every manager in the CCC and we'll be targetted there every game. But it's not just James - with MCG in front of him there is no support or cover. The system we play naturally leaves us exposed wide at the back. By contrast Mills is beginning to look the part and has more support. i think Lancashire also gives us pace and is the right partner for Perry, Wotton or Killer. The problem is how to change things around with the limited personnel. Cork could do a better job at RB but then we'd need Schneiderlin to be fit in midfield alongside Wotton. Agreed Gillet is also too lightweight. Where is Thomas? There's also the question of where Surman plays best. on the basis of the last couple of games I'd like to see him in "the hole" instead of Lallana, move Lallana out right, and get Skacel into the team on the left - although finances/politics probably won't allow. For what it's worth, if wee're going to persevere with one striker, my pecking order would be Pekhart, John, MCG, Robertson. one wonder goal hasn't impressed me and Pekhart showed good hold-up play and control at Doncaster.

Agreed.

Waiting to see the team. Sky say Svensson is back - not sure I'm totally behind that when we've just had 3 clean sheets. And who's going to start up front? I'll be happy with a draw.

Having now tried this place, quick review for the future, if we ever meet again. Food was great value, generous portion of pie mushy peas and chips with plenty of meat but it was served literally hours after it was ordered and the pie wasn't that hot. Beer was extremely fizzy too, not good if like me you like a real pint. Wouldn't go there again. After the match went to The Corner Pin near the station. CAMRA Pub of the year and excellent beer and hospitality.

Pretty well agree with that, but would probably give Pekhart and Schneiderlin 7s.

Were you there, and if so what game did you watch? This was, for pretty well all the game, good. An honest attempt by two teams getting the ball down and playing football. The only thing that was poor was Donny's finishing, fortunately, otherwise we could have easily lost 4 -2.

Totally agree. Nothing dodgy about either pen and both clear cut. Also agree that texhnically the second was last defender, but probably all a bit too close to the keeper. Once the defence settled and woke up to long balls over the top (probably planned to exploit the lack of pace we normally have at CB) I thought we looked good today. Lancashire/Wotton looked solid, Mills and James had good enough games and the midfield really balanced. There was real threat in attack and IMO the team are happier with the simpler 4-4-2. Lots of good movement, some skill and confidence on the ball and encouraging signs. Would love to see this a settled team. Not worried at all that John is out, Pekhart is way better. Hope Schneiderlin is ok but Wotton is a solid alternative with Perry at CB. Really think we just need a settled team now.

I was there and thought he had an impressive game once he settled with Wotton. Donny's tactic of balls over the top to chase looked dangerous and if we'd had, say Perry and Svensson playing the lack of pace would have been disastrous. But as the game went on, this looked like a solid CB pairing and I hope JP leaves it alone. Thought Mills and James also had decent games, although against more physical oppositiob Cork might come in for James. But, IMO winning teams are built on settled defence so PLEASE keep it the same next week!

Would go with that but think Schneiderlin is injured.

Makes me think Lowe's taking the decisions

Agreed totally. As posted on another thread: Is it just me, or does JP's post-match OS report show the first signs of despair, desperation and disillusionment? The last sentence in particular says it all. He came, full of confidence, backed by Lowe, sure that his radical ideas would work. But they are not working and it's clear he doesn't know what to do now except say it's got to be better. My guess is the team are losing faith rapidly and we're now on a fatal downward slide. I hope he can pick things up for Saturday, but I really doubt it. Donny are a physical team, but skillful too, and they play with the passion that comes from being proud of having got to the CCC.

Is it just me, or does JP's post-match OS report show the first signs of despair, desperation and disillusionment? http://www.saintsfc.co.uk/articles/article.php?page_id=10642 The last sentence in particular says it all. He came, full of confidence, backed by Lowe, sure that his radical ideas would work. But they are not working and it's clear he doesn't know what to do now except say it's got to be better. My guess is the team are losing faith rapidly and we're now on a fatal downward slide. I hope he can pick things up for Saturday, but I really doubt it. Donny are a physical team, but skillful too, and they play with the passion that comes from being proud of having got to the CCC. I don't think we have a chance.

Good night.

John attempts to score with his stomach

No confidence left. JP doesn't know what he's doing, so the players certainly don't.

Bart flaps again

sounds like another Bart ****up

Getting some pressure COYR!!! Close again