Yesterday

Just thought I'd share a few thoughts from yesterday.

Generally I was pleased with the performance. The pitch was terrible but at times we still put some decent passing moves together. The main positive for me however was we finally saw a bit of commitment from the team. They were strong in the tackles, and despite conceding another weak goal from a set piece, were determined to not be beaten.

Ratings:
Marshall - Solid debut, couple of his kicks could have been mistaken for his namesake, and apart from one failed punch was reliable (7)

Colin - Typical Colin really (6)

Doherty - Was solid enough and doesn't really deserve all the stick he gets (6)

Dublin - Just same old Dion, thought we were gonna struggle when he went off (7)

Drury - Still think he gives his man far too much but usually gets his tackle in just in time. And he's certainly no Ashley Cole going forward but he should have had a penalty and was very harshly booked for a 'dive' (7)

Etuhu - No real influence on the game, which is not good enough because with his stature he really should be getting hold of these sort of games by the scruff of the nceck (6)

Safri - Our most creative player by a distance but he seems to be too clever for the majority of our players (7)

Robinson - Better performance. Did a decent enough job out wide on the right before excelling at centre back when Dion went off (7)

Croft - Lively performance and kept Blackpool on their toes. Still think we are yet to see the best of Lee Croft (7)

Huckerby - Played well in a central role and once Chadwick is fit could be the answer down the middle alongside brown. Good anticipation for his goal (8 MOM)

Brown - Would have pipped Huckerby to MOM but for a stupid second yellow. Otherwise had a very good game and after all the reports from Sunderland fans I was pleasantly suprised with his performance.

I think it's blantantly clear that we need several new players. The lack of defensive cover is a real concern and there is a lack of competition in all areas of the pitch.

Overall I'm happy to be in the hat and hopeful we'll come thru the replay. The real test is going to be the 2 home games this week. Quite simply we need 6 points (and a few new players aswell).

Interesting times! OTBC.

Posted By: SuperDan, Jan 28, 13:03:11