A note of optimism

[Couldn't Be Hyypia]

Of course the defence had a nightmare, but this can be addressed. I thought we played some good football going forwards today - some of it very good. Bennett was outstanding and in particular made many of his crosses count. Dicker was immense. Best game I've seen Dickinson play - I know he missed a sitter and an open header, but he won a lot of ball, was tenacious and did score. In fact, we had a lot more shots today - something we seem to have shied away from this season. Fossie tucking them in like a man ten years his junior. Coxy coming on as an impact sub.

We won't miss Davies when he goes back to Forest and Whing is back for Hoyte. McNutly on the mend.

I know it's odd to say this after the last few games, but a few things look like they are dropping our way now, we have players coming back and going forward it's clicking. Some support for the defence and I feel optimistic.

This jolly note sponsored by a few bottles of Brakspeare's Oxford Gold.

 

[jordanseagull]

:yahoo:

 

[hopper_182]

Of course the defence had a nightmare, but this can be addressed. I thought we played some good football going forwards today - some of it very good. Bennett was outstanding and in particular made many of his crosses count. Dicker was immense. Best game I've seen Dickinson play - I know he missed a sitter and an open header, but he won a lot of ball, was tenacious and did score. In fact, we had a lot more shots today - something we seem to have shied away from this season. Fossie tucking them in like a man ten years his junior. Coxy coming on as an impact sub.

We won't miss Davies when he goes back to Forest and Whing is back for Hoyte. McNutly on the mend.

I know it's odd to say this after the last few games, but a few things look like they are dropping our way now, we have players coming back and going forward it's clicking. Some support for the defence and I feel optimistic.

This jolly note sponsored by a few bottles of Brakspeare's Oxford Gold.

I think the team need time to gel

 

[middletoenail]

Good thread, we are missing Whing big time.. I know his form dipped somewhat from last season but he is solid!

 

[clarkey]

Of course the defence had a nightmare, but this can be addressed. I thought we played some good football going forwards today - some of it very good. Bennett was outstanding and in particular made many of his crosses count. Dicker was immense. Best game I've seen Dickinson play - I know he missed a sitter and an open header, but he won a lot of ball, was tenacious and did score. In fact, we had a lot more shots today - something we seem to have shied away from this season. Fossie tucking them in like a man ten years his junior. Coxy coming on as an impact sub.

We won't miss Davies when he goes back to Forest and Whing is back for Hoyte. McNutly on the mend.

I know it's odd to say this after the last few games, but a few things look like they are dropping our way now, we have players coming back and going forward it's clicking. Some support for the defence and I feel optimistic.

This jolly note sponsored by a few bottles of Brakspeare's Oxford Gold.

Fair thread, did sound like we were very dangerous going forward yesterday. But I disagree re defence. How far has our defence come this season? Ok so back 4 has been chopped and changed all season, largely due to injury and suspension but its just a shambles and the coaching staff appear incapable of correcting this.

I think Whing is far worse than Hoyte, and whether McNulty can string a few matches together is vital but is yet to be seen. Compared to the start of the season when we appeared to have an abundance of riches at CB we have reached the stage where we have barely one player we'd want to be playing there. The defense has largely been a nightmare all season and I cant see this improving in the near future unless we get in an experienced CB or a defensive coach.

 

[Couldn't Be Hyypia]

fair point Clarkey - and I don't think Whing/McNulty is the short term solution - amazing as it may seem, we do seem to need still more (and better) cover at CB.

But having watched my first game in a month I didn't come away feeling like all is doom and gloom.

 

[hillbilly]

TRHK & Clarkey - Great points, and one of the best threads on here at present.
Quite simply for me it is the quality of our midfield/forwards that is keeping Slade in a job.
I hope he will stick with 4-4-2, at least when starting games. Bennett is class at this level, Dicker is solid, Crofts never gets the credit I feel, and either Davies/Cox can do a job. Good balance with two wide players which allows Crofts & Dicker to play together.
Dickinson needs a verbal volley now and again, but he has the quality. Forster is a top pro and bang in form at the moment (board - please sort a new contract asap)
But our defence.....................it is a real mystery how we keep making mistakes & not acceptable at our level (obvious statement I know).
Firstly there is a confidence crisis, which seems particulary to be affecting Elphick. He is a fair league 1 standard player, but maybe just needs a rest.
Tunni generally gets himself out of trouble with his long legs, too many times on the wrong side, but is the best out of a bad bunch at present.
Virgo - well he should have been the natural replacement for Butters, but never seems to be vocal enough and he own form is a concern.
Shame Jim Mc has not had a run to injuries, and we have not had either a settled RB or LB all season, which again obviously does not help. Hoyte is a fair loan player.
I really do hate filling our team with loan players, but considering the above and our league position, I feel we need 2 further loan players.
Firstly long term loan - A vocal CB, who obviously can organise and defend himself! Secondly on a short term basis - a left footed LB, again preferably with experience. Anybody have any realistic suggestions?
I will wait for the posts which will say it is more Slade's fault than the players!