The "diamond" formation

[benjii]

was used after Antonio went off.

 

What did those who saw the game think?

 

Certainly it suited Lallana and Connolly was able to link with him really well. We looked dangerous.

 

On the other hand, we probably defended too narrowly.

 

Thought it was quite a brave call by Pards but was surprised we didn't change to a 4-5-1 later.

[Hopkins]

Antonio was pointless and Hoolihan was causing carnage in the hole. Correct call and Hoolihan was quickly subbed off so they could go wide because James marked him out the game with the diamond.

[Andy_Porter]

The diamond really suites our squad.

 

The problem with the formation is you really need your full backs bombing forward to supply width and i'm not sure Murty or James are up that on the right hand side. Also the play can become a bit too predictable. Still would be worth giving it a go again, would be the way to get the best out of Lallana and still play two upfront.

[madruss]

It really suited Llallana I thought, and he looked very dangerous at the front of the diamond.

 

Schneiderlin looked less good on the left and I just don't think Lloyd James is up to the job if we're truly looking to push on to the playoffs. Hammond on the right seemed to work ok though, but would still prefer him in the middle.

 

On today's showing, I'd give the diamond 5/10.

 

I still think we've been at our best this season with the 4-5-1.

 

Trouble is, how to fit Connolly into that system? He was phenomenal today, and should not be dropped from the starting line-up...

[Nexstar]

It does work well within our squad, but not with James as CDM, that's Wotton's role.

 

Would like to see that from the off next time with Murty at right back and James on the bench.

[Saint_clark]

Am I really the only person that detests playing without people in the wings?

[S-Clarke]

Am I really the only person that detests playing without people in the wings?

 

nope.....i love width in football, can't stand narrow play tbh.

[beatlesaint]

Am I really the only person that detests playing without people in the wings?

 

Nope - give me a speedy winger any day of the week.

[Bridge]

Adam behind the front two is great to watch. He gives defeners bigs problems with his tricks and turning on the ball and he will put the ball in the net more often than if he plays out on the wing. This gives the team more options for scoring goals....

[eelpie]

Am I really the only person that detests playing without people in the wings?

 

No, Saints have always been at their best with fast wingers. But we must have tough, speedier backs and the wingers have to backtrack to help the defence otherwise we get caught out too easily.