Sat Aug 07, 2010 9:13 pm
Really disappointing first game of the season. MK dictated the pace of the game, had players who were all comfortable in possesion, passed the ball in a far more effective manor than us and picked up three points accordingly.
Our shortcomings were there for all to see, however, we do not help ourselves in certain areas. Why do our goalkeepers persist in hoofing the ball down the centre of the pitch every time they have the ball in their hands, on numerous occasions today both McGivern and Lancashire requested the ball from Brain, however, every time the ball was hoofed downfield, effectively giving possession back to the opposition. We have potentially two of the best wide players in the league in Jones and Gray who can make things happen, however, we are limiting the amount of quality possesion they will receive by these tactics. Both McGivern and Lancashire look comfortable in possesion so surely we should be looking to play more football from the back to give our wide players better possesion - its not rocket science, just improved tactics. It is not down to Brain either, it was the same last season with previous keepers.
As for the performance of Alex Nicholls today, I cannot think of one thing that he contributed in 90 minutes of football. I accept that the service was not great, however, simple things like coming off the centre half to receive the ball, and making runs into threatening areas of the pitch are just not in his game. Maybe just a poor day at the office for him today, however, after the comments he has made in the press about being the man to replace Deeney I expected a bit more today. Not alone in giving a poor performance, however, if I was Will Grigg I may be asking the manager what is needed to get some time on the pitch, if he does not get 30 minutes today under what circumstances will he get his chance?
Still on a positive note, it looks like we may be bringing in a few players, the outcome of the Managers dealings in the next couple of weeks will shape our season.