Strength in depth

When I went along to see our match at Cardiff at the start of the season (and comparing with the WBA match I'd also just seen) I think that we started the season with a very decent squad, but a (highly) unproven first 11.

That the fullbacks, pukki, stiepermann Emi, onel, tettey (and latterly trybull) leitner/vrancic/mclean, and zimmermann have all made themselves must picks and from top to bottom the team has performed is what has got us to this great position.

On paper, at the start of the season I'd have said our starting 11 could have struggled, but they had potential. They're showing that, but are still having to play well to keep their spot in the side. It's huge credit to everyone involved how well its going.

The danger of having a strong starting 11 is that post Christmas, when injury and tiredness kick in, the inevitable changes weaken the side and disrupt the rapport they've built.

I'd say in the past when we've done well we've had a strong 11 and been lucky with injuries.

This year is impressive because we've grown a strong 11 (a different 11 from the one we would have assumed at the start of the season) and that's left us with some great strength in depth.

I'd love us to carry this tactic on in future years, recruiting people with something to prove and the attitude that they need to do so to keep their place, whichever division we're in.

Posted By: Cardiff Canary, Feb 27, 10:14:22