For those that were at the game

[Nutwood2]

Did Antonio celebrate his goal?

[Arizona]

Did Antonio celebrate his goal?

 

Not really. He gave us all a big clap at the end though.

[S-Clarke]

On another note for those that managed to go, have they changed the seating and included stripes in the kingsland stand? just looking at the pics and can kind of see what looks like stripes....

 

http://www.saintsfc.co.uk/javaImages/94/60/0,,10280~8937620,00.jpg

 

any other noticeable changes around the place? Cortese alluded to the fact that there would be St Mary's renovations over the summer.

[ladysaint]

Only now that all staff and apparently players have to pay to park their cars in the car park, new barriers installed on both sides.

[derry]

You're gonna regret that post, mate.

 

I doubt it, if we play a midfield of Oxlade -Chamberlain, Wotton, Hammond and Dickson against Plymouth we won't be dominant and it will be Davis to Lambert all afternoon.

[View From The Top]

We are a division 3 club. Why are people deluded enough to believe that we are going to have a squad that is 2 class players deep in every position?

 

It would be great if we could be but please, get real.

[View From The Top]

I doubt it, if we play a midfield of Oxlade -Chamberlain, Wotton, Hammond and Dickson against Plymouth we won't be dominant and it will be Davis to Lambert all afternoon.

 

 

Fair comment but we all know that those midfielders missing, bar AL, will start on Saturday.

[Arizona]

Did anyone else watch Pulis come off the bench and think, "he can't be as bad as they say he is" then when he put a shot into the family enclosure think, "actually, no. He's much much worse"?

[derry]

Fair comment but we all know that those midfielders missing, bar AL, will start on Saturday.

 

I just hope you are right. I hope nobody else is injured against Eastleigh.

[derry]

Did anyone else watch Pulis come off the bench and think, "he can't be as bad as they say he is" then when he put a shot into the family enclosure think, "actually, no. He's much much worse"?

 

What really worries me is Pulis, Wotton, Reeves, Doble, Tavizoli, Oxlade-Chamberlain as the backup in a first team friendly game.

[moon monkey]

It was also interesting to see Wally Downes in the dugout for the first time, making his voice heard. He seems to have a great way of getting players upping their game. It will also be interesting to see if he upsets a few of the opposition staff.

[vince]

Thats the same for most teams though, didn't our new RB have to play as an emegency striker for palace last season?

 

He played up front for them against Wolves in the FA Cup and scored a 7 minute "perfect" hat trick. Palace ST holders at work tell me he's got a good shot on him and that they used to pull the ball back from corners to him occassionally to have a crack.

 

Very interested in the mixed comments today about Jaidi - I wasn't impressed by him against Sutton and will be surprised if he lasts the season.

[boxosponge]

I thought the PA was better today: heard everything clearly but it was all TOO LOUD

 

And that pratt who screams into the mike is still there and made even worse

[S-Clarke]

 

And that pratt who screams into the mike is still there and made even worse

 

oh ********...

[Saint_Mabes]

In terms of seeing the new and newish on show, I obviously wanted to love them all, but Dickson didn't really impress me that much. One cracking cross in first half that unfortunately no one got on the end of. Certainly a good squad player, but will wait to see whether he de-thrones Harding or gets a shot at left mid. Butterfield on the other hand looked very handy. Like the look of Martin too. Ox Chamberlain no way near up to it on todays showing.

 

One or two more decent signings and i'll be a true believer! (Top 2 no doubt)

[Gigersaint]

 

any other noticeable changes around the place? Cortese alluded to the fact that there would be St Mary's renovations over the summer.

 

Beer is now cheaper? Was £ 3.20, is now £ 3.00, I know many don't like the beer at St Marys but at least it's cheaper now

[dune]

Beer is now cheaper? Was £ 3.20, is now £ 3.00, I know many don't like the beer at St Marys but at least it's cheaper now

 

so long as it's wet and has alcohol in it i will be honest and admit i very rarely notice a bad pint. Unless of course it's a foul pint of stella which i have noticed some people drink to prove their viriity, wheras those with taste and it all proved already drink a man that likes other mens drink or a man that liks women drink or a woman that likes a man drink or a woman that likes other womes drink or a bisexuals choice- pint of fosters (mebee even add a top or go really wild and add a dash of lime. I have tried go dead trendy but you either have it or you don't and as much I tried to pull off the standing casually with a bottle of J20 look only a certain type (the a list type of lad) can pull it off and Delldays carries it of with style.

Edited 1 August, 2010 by dune

[LostBoys]

This thread is running under another title elsewhere.

 

I thought the support from the chapel end today was a disgrace.

[Gorgiesaint]

Sadly the club missed a trick by not getting an option to sign him when we took him on loan

 

TBF they only missed a trick if that was an option but we don't know if it was.

 

It wasn't an option - Antonio was out of contract at the end of last season so it was up to him where he went. Reading were always going to offer him a contract so it increased the amount of compensation we were due to pay if he joined us. As it's turned out, Reading seem to be offering him something similar to what we were offering (ie 1st change off the bench) but in a division higher so no surprise that he's stayed with them.

 

But in terms of us missing a trick - no, we did what we could. HTH.

[VectisSaint]

so long as it's wet and has alcohol in it i will be honest and admit i very rarely notice a bad pint. Unless of course it's a foul pint of stella which i have noticed some people drink to prove their viriity, wheras those with taste and it all proved already drink a man that likes other mens drink or a man that liks women drink or a woman that likes a man drink or a woman that likes other womes drink or a bisexuals choice- pint of fosters (mebee even add a top or go really wild and add a dash of lime. I have tried go dead trendy but you either have it or you don't and as much I tried to pull off the standing casually with a bottle of J20 look only a certain type (the a list type of lad) can pull it off and Delldays carries it of with style.

Assume you had had a pint of Stella when you wrote this, or maybe half a pint

I should stick to the J2O in future

[VectisSaint]

It wasn't an option - Antonio was out of contract at the end of last season so it was up to him where he went. Reading were always going to offer him a contract so it increased the amount of compensation we were due to pay if he joined us. As it's turned out, Reading seem to be offering him something similar to what we were offering (ie 1st change off the bench) but in a division higher so no surprise that he's stayed with them.

 

But in terms of us missing a trick - no, we did what we could. HTH.

Antonio wasn't out of contract end of last season, his contract at Reading included an option for Reading to extend by a year, which they exercised, Antonio had no say in the matter. Its up to them if they are willing to sell or loan. They have a different set up now than when he joined us so I don't see anything unusual in the fact that he may be wanting to stay at Reading who must be one of the facvourites for promotion based on their form towards end of last campaign.

[musesaint]

Antonio wasn't out of contract end of last season, his contract at Reading included an option for Reading to extend by a year, which they exercised, Antonio had no say in the matter. Its up to them if they are willing to sell or loan. They have a different set up now than when he joined us so I don't see anything unusual in the fact that he may be wanting to stay at Reading who must be one of the facvourites for promotion based on their form towards end of last campaign.

 

 

 

I agree with most of that except I suspect Antonio would like to be a Saint ...but Reading are asking more than Cortese wants to pay...

[SaintRichmond]

and dont rely on internet posts and third hand reports, what was your take on today?

 

I felt that for the first hour we were more than match for Reading, Barnard was a big plus for me he looked busy and a constant threat, his finish was class and showed a passion to win which we wil need. Enjoyed the way he bollocked Harding for a meaningless high ball, quite clear what he was saying. Jaidi and Fonte looked solid, i though Wotton and Hammond did well and Dickson did well wide left. Connolly looked a little rusty but you could see his movement was still first class. After their equlizer the subs came and its clear that the kids that were brought on aren't up to it, yet, but a saints team minus 4 of our best players, ie Schniderlin, Lambert, Puncheon and Lallana were as good as Reading, who IMO will finish top half of the CCC. I am sure some willl enjoy us losing today, the usual suspects, but the difference between the sides for the first hour, before subs, was paper thin.

 

You didn't mention the inspirational substitution of Antony Pukis ??

 

That finished it for me

[MorningtonCrescent]

Back to the OP.....

 

Saints, depleted by four nailed on first 11 starters, were the better side for an hour or so - against a Reading team who were well organised and ended last season in some form.

 

Once we took the chance to give the youngsters a chance to play at SMS in front of a reasonable crowd, we looked to lose our shape and focus.

 

Good to see we played football most if the time. Maybe too many high balls in to DC?!

 

The new players looked to be gelling well with the team's structure. DH and RD could be a great partnership down the left for many years! Dickson looked very comfortable on the ball and can take a good set piece.

 

Barnie and DC looked good up front, so a definite positive for me there. If rickie does stuggle at any point this season through injury, suspension or form I believe we will still score plenty.

 

Hammond did well in midfield without his sidekick. No worry for me that he 'puts it about a bit'! Isn't that what all say is needed in this league? If he's up for it in friendly then that shows me desire and professionalism.

 

If I were a cynic/pessimist the only two observations that gave me cause fir worry were:

 

No Dan Seabourne? No word that he's injured and not near the team?

 

Which leads me onto my other 'negative':

Did AP 'do an 'Arry' and use the youth to demonstrate the lack of depth in the squad - proving some sort of point? If so, at least was in a friendly, but still not what I'd want from our club, if true?

 

Overall, very happy that we've got a fitter, leaner squad than last year. We've got quality in every position (when everyone is fit!) and we could have a better start to the season than we've seen for some time?! Notoriously slow most years, I'd like to see 10 points from the first 5 games to see us underway on our promotion charge!

 

:-D

[Clifford Nelson]

Replacing the men with boys changed everything, and after that it was nolonger a contest. It is quite amazing how milky the youngsters look, and for most of them the game when on around them. Up to then it felt that we had the edge, which was a good sign. I was impressed by Barnard who seemed to have gained a lot of strength, and also by Mills, who created a good few things before stepping off injured. He also seems to have grown both in height and weight over the summer. Butterfield and Dickson are clearly good signings.

 

On the negative side we can't start Wotton in the middle of midfield and expect to win the midfield battle and Jaidhi looked very questionable at the back. He has never had the most mobility or athleticism, but yesterday he struggled with most things apart from a few headers. We must look for a different starting CB for most of the season, and we only have Martin and Seabourne, or have we, since he wasn't in the squad and wasn't declared injured?

 

If Lallana will be off for a long time, and some sources suggest that the injury is much worse than feared, there is a real need for another decisive wide player. The suggestion that Papa Waigon is on his way back is music to my ears, but I am certain that that is not primarily an AP decision, since he clearly didn't rate him, or alternatively didn't know what to do with him. Therefore the decision must be NC's, which to me fuels my suspicion that it's sh*t or bust for AP. Whilst he was recruited in a wild panic, I'm sure that his replacement, whenever it comes, will have been sourced carefully for the role to be filled in the longer perspective. Then, of course, the Papa Waigo rumour is just that, a rumour without foundation, and then the rest has got no foundation either.

[Roger]

I was up for going yesterday until I realised it was £15 for the game. That coupled with the fact I have bought a season ticket and paid extra for the bournemouth cup game made me think the club were out of line. £10 fine but that was too much. Also, if you did pay that and then saw that lallan, morgan, rickie and judy were out would have made me think what a waste of time, that coupled with no big signings when it is clear we need another centre mid desperately, a big centre forward to cover rickie plus someone to cover judy on the right. I am slightly underwhelmed and really hope we are okay for next week. I expect 2 signings this week. I think cortese is getting too big for his boots but hope im wrong.

[hackedoff]

As far as NC is concerned it will be results that count, not performances. Good displays without 3 points in the bag is NOT going to wash this season.

[Iowsaintsfan]

When will the "Ï've seen Pulis play at SMS" very limited collectors item T shirt be available !!!

 

Funny i said exactly this at the game yesterday!! lol

[CitySaint]

3/4 of the games Saints looked alright, Barnard being the brightest light. It all got a bit stale after that, but thought Dickson looked creative and a good dribbler too. Butterfield looked knackered by the end, but so did most. Personal highlight was Paul Wotton's 60 yard sweeping cross field ball. Key question though, why was there such a large police presence at the ground? Was ridiculous, costs money too.

[fred kemp]

agree with turkish's views on the game, dont get the crap about wotton, i honestly thought he was ok, i did see the cross field ball to mills feet.

a typical friendly though

[stevegrant]

As far as NC is concerned it will be results that count, not performances. Good displays without 3 points in the bag is NOT going to wash this season.

Agreed, but we won't be bringing 5 or 6 teenagers off the bench to replace our first-teamers in any competitive game, so I'm not too concerned by the last 20 minutes or so yesterday. I was actually pleasantly surprised by how well we coped without Lambert in particular, but also Lallana, Puncheon and Schneiderlin, as I think all four would be in the starting lineup if everyone was fit.

[latter day saint]

Key question though, why was there such a large police presence at the ground? Was ridiculous, costs money too.

very over the top imo. had a talking too from one of them just for a bit of banter with the Reading fans after they scored. was laughable as he ignored all the "yoof" around me gesturing & shouting at them

[CitySaint]

Was ridiculous, I can only think they were trying to get some 'overtime' in. I saw them arrest one guy near me in the Northam, he was 2 rows in front of me and I can honestly say he did very little indeed. Cuffed him in the concourse at the end and bundled him into the food area, out of sight. I answered one copper, and he said 'Yes, there are too many of us here'. They all seemed to have an overly officious attitude as well.

[ericofarabia]

3/4 of the games Saints looked alright, Barnard being the brightest light. It all got a bit stale after that, but thought Dickson looked creative and a good dribbler too. Butterfield looked knackered by the end, but so did most. Personal highlight was Paul Wotton's 60 yard sweeping cross field ball. Key question though, why was there such a large police presence at the ground? Was ridiculous, costs money too.

 

On the lookout for Nick Illingsworth, StuRomseySaint and his Siamese Twin Dave Benson Phillips, Echo Reporters and anybody else who has upset Nicola.

 

Alan Pardew has had a Restraining Order slapped on him ... he has to stay at least 10 metres away from The Directors Box at all times!!

[CitySaint]

On the lookout for Nick Illingsworth, StuRomseySaint and his Siamese Twin Dave Benson Phillips, Echo Reporters and anybody else who has upset Nicola.

 

Alan Pardew has had a Restraining Order slapped on him ... he has to stay at least 10 metres away from The Directors Box at all times!!

 

That's cleared that up then !!

[moon monkey]

I noticed that Nick Harvey, the fitness coach wasn't taking the warm up.

[Turkish]

On the lookout for Nick Illingsworth, StuRomseySaint and his Siamese Twin Dave Benson Phillips, Echo Reporters and anybody else who has upset Nicola.

 

Alan Pardew has had a Restraining Order slapped on him ... he has to stay at least 10 metres away from The Directors Box at all times!!

 

He was there, saw him in the Kingsland. Obviously not banned then, just not allowed a season ticket. I think our resident Jimmy Tarbuck double was stalking a bird in the new forest.

[suewhistle]

I didn't go to the game but a question for those that did. Leaving aside Pulis, did the youngsters who came on have enough about them that they could do a job as an individual in a more experienced team? It's a bit unfair to judge them as individuals when the pattern of play is affected so much by having 6 substitutions of inexperienced players.

[CitySaint]

I didn't go to the game but a question for those that did. Leaving aside Pulis, did the youngsters who came on have enough about them that they could do a job as an individual in a more experienced team? It's a bit unfair to judge them as individuals when the pattern of play is affected so much by having 6 substitutions of inexperienced players.

 

Tough to say but the centre back pairing of Tamafzoli and Martin allowed reading to score 2, maybe even 3 of the goals. You would have fancied Jaidi and Fonte to make more headers than them. Not sold on Oxlade-Chamberlin, he seems to suffer from the curse of modern wingers, doesn't put a good cross in (Dickson can though).

[trousers]

What did Cortese and Pardew say in their respective programme notes?

[Phil the Saint]

In terms of seeing the new and newish on show, I obviously wanted to love them all, but Dickson didn't really impress me that much. One cracking cross in first half that unfortunately no one got on the end of. Certainly a good squad player, but will wait to see whether he de-thrones Harding or gets a shot at left mid. Butterfield on the other hand looked very handy. Like the look of Martin too. Ox Chamberlain no way near up to it on todays showing.

 

One or two more decent signings and i'll be a true believer! (Top 2 no doubt)

 

Couldn't disagree more I thought Dickson played very well and looks a threat going forward and uses the ball well. Depending on his defensive capabilites which were difficult to tell from his wide midfield position I can see him ending the season as 1st choice left back. Much as I like Harding he dosn't have Dickson's attacking drive and that could be crucial in tight games where we are trying to breakdown massed defensive ranks and want to comitt the full-backs forward.

[Turkish]

Couldn't disagree more I thought Dickson played very well and looks a threat going forward and uses the ball well. Depending on his defensive capabilites which were difficult to tell from his wide midfield position I can see him ending the season as 1st choice left back. Much as I like Harding he dosn't have Dickson's attacking drive and that could be crucial in tight games where we are trying to breakdown massed defensive ranks and want to comitt the full-backs forward.

 

Agreed, though Dickson, Butterfield and Barnard were best players.