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Post by shosho on Sept 13, 2017 9:55:25 GMT
Not done one of these before so thought I would give it a go!
Eastwood - 7 - usual, solid self. Certainly nothing he could have done with the first goal, and would have to be a worldy to save the second. Aside from the cross bar being hit, I can't remember him having much else to do!
Mousinho - 7 - much better footballer than I realised. Obviously a decent CB but almost feels that limits him. Very good on the ball, enjoyed watching him carry it out of the defence. Compared to last season, we have plenty in that back 4 that have quality distribution. Not sure about the ducking for the second goal!
Nelson - 7 - looks unflappable and a solid. Much like Mousinho, enjoyed seeing him carry the ball out of defence...however he tends to try a bit too much!
Williamson - 7 - handled a very capable front line of Bradford well. No fuss, solid, and comfortably better than Dunkley.
Ricardinho - 7 - outstanding quality on the ball. Great quality when playing the chip down the line (used to call it the wedge of doom with Skarz). An fantastic 1v1 defender and often comes away with the ball starting our counters. Only slight criticism being the space he allows for crosses...sometimes seems a little slow getting out to the player?
Henry - 6 - have said on another thread, his work out of possession is good, but gets dispossessed regularly and not sure of his strengths going forwards? I had an image of a lower league beckham when he arrived (based on what a wolves fan had said). Not overly quick, but able to find some space and deliver some quality in to the box. Don't feel we have seen the best of him yet.
Hall - 8 - a new player under Clotet, maybe it's the full pre season! Was quite unlucky with Bradford getting in last minute blocks, but is clearly our most electric player when going forward. Seems to have improved when he has his back to goal, receiving the ball to feet. Just a little more end product required, but was one of our top performers yesterday.
Ledson - 7 - love watching him play! Some fantastic Lundstram-esque passes in the first half. Despite that he lost possession quite regularly as he always seemed to be the spare man in the centre. He is the perfect foil for Rothwell and does fantastic work in front of the back 4.
Rothwell - 9 - for me, was MOTM. Ledson allows him to break from midfield. Effortlessly goes past players, is capable on both his left and right foot. Dynamic when out of possession, hassles the opposition. Was a fantastic all-round performance and hope to see some more!
Payne - 8 - enjoy him whilst he's here! Infectious energy, always looking to move the ball forwards. Would imagine a lot of strikers keen to play with him! Appeared to be man marked but still had influence. Already the most assists in league 1, let's hope he stays beyond January!
Thomas - 7 - not a natural lone striker, but a very good poacher. Similar to Hemmings, he comes alive in the box. Despite this Pep appears to have him pressing from the front which is good to see! Thought he battled well against the Bradford back 4 and converted his one chance of the game...following in from the shot.
Subs GVK - 7 - still undecided. Has ability, and pace, but not sold on him yet. Had a couple of decent shots (for Thomas' goal). Think he is best placed as an impact sub rather than a starter.
Mowatt - 7 - will be starting in a few weeks...but not sure who for! Very good on the ball and was part of a change in momentum on 60mins when himself and GVK came on.
Ruffels - not on long enough!
Sure I will have got some of the above wrong, but thought it was a great all round performance...can't remember the last time we played so well at home!
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Post by oufcgav on Sept 13, 2017 10:03:41 GMT
Payne I believe has most assists in England atm not just league 1.
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Post by swissyellow on Sept 13, 2017 11:47:52 GMT
GVK is a very good footballer who looks like they've never played football before.
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Post by backonthecoupon on Sept 13, 2017 12:01:13 GMT
Ricardinho should get more than a 7, he was immense. Tired 2nd half as they all did but what a first half.
Thomas i have defended a lot but he was poor last night, goal excepted. Like Hemmings he is being asked to play in a role that doesnt suit him unfortunately. 5 or a 6 for me.
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Post by brassmonkey on Sept 13, 2017 12:07:01 GMT
wasnt it williamson who lost the 'duel' for their second goal?
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Post by shosho on Sept 13, 2017 12:10:24 GMT
wasnt it williamson who lost the 'duel' for their second goal? I've not watched it back, but thought Williamson and Mousinho were in the centre, the Bradford player had a run and jump on both. Remember Mousinho bent in two, not sure if Williamson called etc.
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Post by sideoftheleft on Sept 13, 2017 12:24:29 GMT
I think we will get caught out with the across the defence passes soon. Some are a bit too risky imo.
Great football last night though, relying too much on Hall? We need some more firepower on the left
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Post by Gary Baldi on Sept 13, 2017 12:27:25 GMT
GVK has had a very up and downtime since moving to the UK, so it's only fair that he may have games where he's bit in and out. Once he gets a house for his partner and child, it should help him settle down more.
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Post by foley on Sept 13, 2017 12:36:41 GMT
I think we will get caught out with the across the defence passes soon. Some are a bit too risky imo. Great football last night though, relying too much on Hall? We need some more firepower on the left Yes that is inevitable. Pep likes to play possession football playing from the back and I suspect that he will look at it that if it is only occasional he can live with it. We have scored goals this season from paying such a way- even Williamson helped make the second last night from hs own area.
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Post by holdsteady on Sept 13, 2017 12:38:54 GMT
I think Rothwell suddenly becoming the best player in the squad has left Clotet with a problem, he signed Mowett to play centre midfield but he has to get past a Rothwell in inspired form, can't see it happening. Nice to have the cover but could end up being a wasted loan, would of preferred another wide player looking at it now. Still it's a good problem in some ways, and how many people really saw him stepping up this much?
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Post by followtheox (the original) on Sept 13, 2017 12:54:31 GMT
Ricardinho should get more than a 7, he was immense. Tired 2nd half as they all did but what a first half. Thomas i have defended a lot but he was poor last night, goal excepted. Like Hemmings he is being asked to play in a role that doesnt suit him unfortunately. 5 or a 6 for me. Myself and the guy sitting next to me thought Thomas was very good. Tired towards the end because he put such a shift in.
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Post by osleroad on Sept 13, 2017 13:50:33 GMT
Have to keep saying that it's all about choice and there is no reason for anyone to be wasted as such ..with a larger squad you can select for different situations..obvious I know but why this person must replace this person doesn't add up in today's game. BTW I think that Rothwell who we knew had skill is actually starting to affect games now ..and the playing time can only be positive
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Post by littlemore on Sept 13, 2017 13:54:23 GMT
If Hall can combine cutting in with going on the outside when on the right hand side he will be one of the best players in league one. At the moment teams may make it hard by doubling up on him so may need to vary his game to keep his standards high.
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Post by gorilla on Sept 13, 2017 13:56:12 GMT
Pretty much agree with OP's player ratings. Thought it was a very good performance from all our players. Our defence looks very solid, I was sad to see Dunkley go in the summer, but in Mousinho and Williamson we have two far more reliable defenders.
Thought Hall and Rothwell were our best players last night, both driving us forward and getting into good positions to create chances. GVK when he came on from the bench added a boost of energy, still looks a little bit raw, needs a bit of refinement.
Finally, Ricardinho - this guy is a cult legend in the making!! So much fun watching this guy dance around players, when he's in our own box!!
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Post by foley on Sept 13, 2017 14:13:13 GMT
I think Rothwell suddenly becoming the best player in the squad has left Clotet with a problem, he signed Mowett to play centre midfield but he has to get past a Rothwell in inspired form, can't see it happening. Nice to have the cover but could end up being a wasted loan, would of preferred another wide player looking at it now. Still it's a good problem in some ways, and how many people really saw him stepping up this much? If it is a problem I am sure that Pep will be delighted to have such a problem! Rothwell has surprised me and to be fair to Pep he introduced him instead of Ruffels and gave him a chance.
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Post by sideoftheleft on Sept 13, 2017 15:37:50 GMT
Ledson' workrate is immense. He played in defence midfield and was also in their box quite a lot last night
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Post by diagocostapacket on Sept 13, 2017 15:58:15 GMT
I don't understand the ratings.... presumably 1 I assume is abject and 10 is out of this world ?
I would have given Hall and Ledson a 8 just for their sheer energy.
Mous only an average 5 I'm afraid along with Nelson
The rest a 6 which I suppose is good ??
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Post by finlandia on Sept 13, 2017 16:02:28 GMT
Agree with most - GVK should have helped stop the cross. He's raw, and that part of his game will come. Thought Mous did ok in a position where he isn't a natural.
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Post by charliesghost on Sept 13, 2017 16:13:30 GMT
Not done one of these before so thought I would give it a go! Eastwood - 7 - usual, solid self. Certainly nothing he could have done with the first goal, and would have to be a worldy to save the second. Aside from the cross bar being hit, I can't remember him having much else to do! Mousinho - 7 - much better footballer than I realised. Obviously a decent CB but almost feels that limits him. Very good on the ball, enjoyed watching him carry it out of the defence. Compared to last season, we have plenty in that back 4 that have quality distribution. Not sure about the ducking for the second goal! Nelson - 7 - looks unflappable and a solid. Much like Mousinho, enjoyed seeing him carry the ball out of defence...however he tends to try a bit too much! Williamson - 7 - handled a very capable front line of Bradford well. No fuss, solid, and comfortably better than Dunkley. Ricardinho - 7 - outstanding quality on the ball. Great quality when playing the chip down the line (used to call it the wedge of doom with Skarz). An fantastic 1v1 defender and often comes away with the ball starting our counters. Only slight criticism being the space he allows for crosses...sometimes seems a little slow getting out to the player? Henry - 6 - have said on another thread, his work out of possession is good, but gets dispossessed regularly and not sure of his strengths going forwards? I had an image of a lower league beckham when he arrived (based on what a wolves fan had said). Not overly quick, but able to find some space and deliver some quality in to the box. Don't feel we have seen the best of him yet. Hall - 8 - a new player under Clotet, maybe it's the full pre season! Was quite unlucky with Bradford getting in last minute blocks, but is clearly our most electric player when going forward. Seems to have improved when he has his back to goal, receiving the ball to feet. Just a little more end product required, but was one of our top performers yesterday. Ledson - 7 - love watching him play! Some fantastic Lundstram-esque passes in the first half. Despite that he lost possession quite regularly as he always seemed to be the spare man in the centre. He is the perfect foil for Rothwell and does fantastic work in front of the back 4. Rothwell - 9 - for me, was MOTM. Ledson allows him to break from midfield. Effortlessly goes past players, is capable on both his left and right foot. Dynamic when out of possession, hassles the opposition. Was a fantastic all-round performance and hope to see some more! Payne - 8 - enjoy him whilst he's here! Infectious energy, always looking to move the ball forwards. Would imagine a lot of strikers keen to play with him! Appeared to be man marked but still had influence. Already the most assists in league 1, let's hope he stays beyond January! Thomas - 7 - not a natural lone striker, but a very good poacher. Similar to Hemmings, he comes alive in the box. Despite this Pep appears to have him pressing from the front which is good to see! Thought he battled well against the Bradford back 4 and converted his one chance of the game...following in from the shot. Subs GVK - 7 - still undecided. Has ability, and pace, but not sold on him yet. Had a couple of decent shots (for Thomas' goal). Think he is best placed as an impact sub rather than a starter. Mowatt - 7 - will be starting in a few weeks...but not sure who for! Very good on the ball and was part of a change in momentum on 60mins when himself and GVK came on. Ruffels - not on long enough! Sure I will have got some of the above wrong, but thought it was a great all round performance...can't remember the last time we played so well at home! Crikey. a 2-2 draw against an upper-mid table side at home and you see it as a "great performance" where you "can't remember us ever playing this well at home." Quite a statement. If this is true then we are clearly a very weak club who can only aspire to the odd day sharing the spoils with play-off contenders!! There will be plenty of teams this season who manage to do decently at home against Bradford City and get a point. To award our players almost '8' per person for a home draw implies that there is very little room for improvement. I think I'm a little more positive and aspire to a little more than that. So, where can we improve? 1. We haven't conceded that many yet, but we LOOK like conceding to decent teams. Against Shrewsbury it could have been a cricket score, we were that shaky (though to be fair they were a good side). Scunny and Bradford have created plenty against us (MK Dons as well). I've looked again at the various highlights packages and think that we are not managing to exert enough pressure on the ball in defensive midfield situations. 2. That seems to be happening mostly from wide areas where teams have space to play, cross, shoot. Maybe our wide midfielders are too high up the pitch to prevent that play; maybe the full-backs are not the strongest defensively. Either way, it is very noticeable that talented attacking players are finding space against us in wide and semi-wide areas. 3. We manage to create a lot of attacking ball, but not that many clear chances. Other than our two goals last night, I saw one pen claim, one Okish save and one or two other bits and pieces. For a "great performance" that is a measly return when they scored two and hit the cross bar with a great chance. As an away side, that is a decent tally. Most objective observers saw it as a fair result on the balance of play. Before I suggest some solutions, let's outline where we are good. We are moving the ball quicker than under Appleton. We have more quality in depth and therefore competition for places. We look less likely to be physically bullied (though this has not been truly tested yet). These upsides are pretty substantial and meaningful. The only way that I would compare us unfavourably to the second half of last season (when we were a top 5 side, remember) is the lack of potential match-winners. Maguire and McAleny were both that and they won us some tight matches which we are currently not winning. I suspect that Pep will be working hard on the training ground on defensive shape, so am hoping/ assuming that that will improve. In terms of attacking shape, I am - as I have said elsewhere - concerned that our strikers' movement is not quite sharp enough to give the attacking "3" behind the "1" sufficient options. I think that Thomas and Obika are doing fine, actually, but in a competitive league if we want to get into the top two then "fine" might not be enough. I think that we all need to be realistic about this squad. It is the best assembled at OUFC for 20 years, but it has not been built for "the future". Payne, Mowatt and Gino are on loan and in the shop window and will not stay here if we do not get promoted. Williamson is 33 pushing 34; Ricardinho 33; Wes is pushing 31; Mousinho is 31. That is 6 or 7 of our 11 from last night who are either on-loan or nearing the end of their careers. We have gone from having an average age of 22 to an average age of 29, with two of the youngsters bringing the average age down being on loan. So... this is the season for promotion for this squad. There is no point in judging them as a medium-term work in progress. They have to be judged in terms of making the top 6 right here and right now, and preferably the top 2. After 7 games, we are 7 points off the top and level on points with mid-table (a couple of teams have a game in hand). That is a reasonable start (7 out of 10 in my view) and hasn't precluded success this term at all. Furthermore, Pep has got the team moving the ball slickly (a big problem under MApp at times) which gives promise of better to come. But let's not blind ourselves as to the progress that needs to be made. Sheff United and Bolton Wanderers both started poorly last season - far more poorly than we have started this season. But they ended up as very hard-nosed, tough outfits who edged tight games and steam-rollered sides who couldn't match them physically. That's our benchmark... not just to be a team who on their day can give Bradford City a close game. There is no criticism of anyone in the above. I'm impressed by Pep, reckon we have the legendary top 6 budget, and the players are working hard. But let's remember the level of constancy and (relative) excellence it took to get promoted from League 2, narrowly on the last day of the season.
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Post by hackneyjack on Sept 13, 2017 16:25:07 GMT
Not done one of these before so thought I would give it a go! Eastwood - 7 - usual, solid self. Certainly nothing he could have done with the first goal, and would have to be a worldy to save the second. Aside from the cross bar being hit, I can't remember him having much else to do! Mousinho - 7 - much better footballer than I realised. Obviously a decent CB but almost feels that limits him. Very good on the ball, enjoyed watching him carry it out of the defence. Compared to last season, we have plenty in that back 4 that have quality distribution. Not sure about the ducking for the second goal! Nelson - 7 - looks unflappable and a solid. Much like Mousinho, enjoyed seeing him carry the ball out of defence...however he tends to try a bit too much! Williamson - 7 - handled a very capable front line of Bradford well. No fuss, solid, and comfortably better than Dunkley. Ricardinho - 7 - outstanding quality on the ball. Great quality when playing the chip down the line (used to call it the wedge of doom with Skarz). An fantastic 1v1 defender and often comes away with the ball starting our counters. Only slight criticism being the space he allows for crosses...sometimes seems a little slow getting out to the player? Henry - 6 - have said on another thread, his work out of possession is good, but gets dispossessed regularly and not sure of his strengths going forwards? I had an image of a lower league beckham when he arrived (based on what a wolves fan had said). Not overly quick, but able to find some space and deliver some quality in to the box. Don't feel we have seen the best of him yet. Hall - 8 - a new player under Clotet, maybe it's the full pre season! Was quite unlucky with Bradford getting in last minute blocks, but is clearly our most electric player when going forward. Seems to have improved when he has his back to goal, receiving the ball to feet. Just a little more end product required, but was one of our top performers yesterday. Ledson - 7 - love watching him play! Some fantastic Lundstram-esque passes in the first half. Despite that he lost possession quite regularly as he always seemed to be the spare man in the centre. He is the perfect foil for Rothwell and does fantastic work in front of the back 4. Rothwell - 9 - for me, was MOTM. Ledson allows him to break from midfield. Effortlessly goes past players, is capable on both his left and right foot. Dynamic when out of possession, hassles the opposition. Was a fantastic all-round performance and hope to see some more! Payne - 8 - enjoy him whilst he's here! Infectious energy, always looking to move the ball forwards. Would imagine a lot of strikers keen to play with him! Appeared to be man marked but still had influence. Already the most assists in league 1, let's hope he stays beyond January! Thomas - 7 - not a natural lone striker, but a very good poacher. Similar to Hemmings, he comes alive in the box. Despite this Pep appears to have him pressing from the front which is good to see! Thought he battled well against the Bradford back 4 and converted his one chance of the game...following in from the shot. Subs GVK - 7 - still undecided. Has ability, and pace, but not sold on him yet. Had a couple of decent shots (for Thomas' goal). Think he is best placed as an impact sub rather than a starter. Mowatt - 7 - will be starting in a few weeks...but not sure who for! Very good on the ball and was part of a change in momentum on 60mins when himself and GVK came on. Ruffels - not on long enough! Sure I will have got some of the above wrong, but thought it was a great all round performance...can't remember the last time we played so well at home! Crikey. a 2-2 draw against an upper-mid table side at home and you see it as a "great performance" where you "can't remember us ever playing this well at home." Quite a statement. If this is true then we are clearly a very weak club who can only aspire to the odd day sharing the spoils with play-off contenders!! There will be plenty of teams this season who manage to do decently at home against Bradford City and get a point. To award our players almost '8' per person for a home draw implies that there is very little room for improvement. I think I'm a little more positive and aspire to a little more than that. So, where can we improve? 1. We haven't conceded that many yet, but we LOOK like conceding to decent teams. Against Shrewsbury it could have been a cricket score, we were that shaky (though to be fair they were a good side). Scunny and Bradford have created plenty against us (MK Dons as well). I've looked again at the various highlights packages and think that we are not managing to exert enough pressure on the ball in defensive midfield situations. 2. That seems to be happening mostly from wide areas where teams have space to play, cross, shoot. Maybe our wide midfielders are too high up the pitch to prevent that play; maybe the full-backs are not the strongest defensively. Either way, it is very noticeable that talented attacking players are finding space against us in wide and semi-wide areas. 3. We manage to create a lot of attacking ball, but not that many clear chances. Other than our two goals last night, I saw one pen claim, one Okish save and one or two other bits and pieces. For a "great performance" that is a measly return when they scored two and hit the cross bar with a great chance. As an away side, that is a decent tally. Most objective observers saw it as a fair result on the balance of play. Before I suggest some solutions, let's outline where we are good. We are moving the ball quicker than under Appleton. We have more quality in depth and therefore competition for places. We look less likely to be physically bullied (though this has not been truly tested yet). These upsides are pretty substantial and meaningful. The only way that I would compare us unfavourably to the second half of last season (when we were a top 5 side, remember) is the lack of potential match-winners. Maguire and McAleny were both that and they won us some tight matches which we are currently not winning. I suspect that Pep will be working hard on the training ground on defensive shape, so am hoping/ assuming that that will improve. In terms of attacking shape, I am - as I have said elsewhere - concerned that our strikers' movement is not quite sharp enough to give the attacking "3" behind the "1" sufficient options. I think that Thomas and Obika are doing fine, actually, but in a competitive league if we want to get into the top two then "fine" might not be enough. I think that we all need to be realistic about this squad. It is the best assembled at OUFC for 20 years, but it has not been built for "the future". Payne, Mowatt and Gino are on loan and in the shop window and will not stay here if we do not get promoted. Williamson is 33 pushing 34; Ricardinho 33; Wes is pushing 31; Mousinho is 31. That is 6 or 7 of our 11 from last night who are either on-loan or nearing the end of their careers. We have gone from having an average age of 22 to an average age of 29, with two of the youngsters bringing the average age down being on loan. So... this is the season for promotion for this squad. There is no point in judging them as a medium-term work in progress. They have to be judged in terms of making the top 6 right here and right now, and preferably the top 2. After 7 games, we are 7 points off the top and level on points with mid-table (a couple of teams have a game in hand). That is a reasonable start (7 out of 10 in my view) and hasn't precluded success this term at all. Furthermore, Pep has got the team moving the ball slickly (a big problem under MApp at times) which gives promise of better to come. But let's not blind ourselves as to the progress that needs to be made. Sheff United and Bolton Wanderers both started poorly last season - far more poorly than we have started this season. But they ended up as very hard-nosed, tough outfits who edged tight games and steam-rollered sides who couldn't match them physically. That's our benchmark... not just to be a team who on their day can give Bradford City a close game. There is no criticism of anyone in the above. I'm impressed by Pep, reckon we have the legendary top 6 budget, and the players are working hard. But let's remember the level of constancy and (relative) excellence it took to get promoted from League 2, narrowly on the last day of the season. Still early days Charlie, and you're not comparing apples with apples - and you know very well what you are doing here with quite a divisive response. We recruited a new unproven manager very late into close season, lost key players, and have had many new players come in. Positivity is a good thing Charlie, let's get behind the team, rather than comparing our short falls with the two promotion teams from last season.
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Post by scotchegg on Sept 13, 2017 16:25:26 GMT
Not done one of these before so thought I would give it a go! Eastwood - 7 - usual, solid self. Certainly nothing he could have done with the first goal, and would have to be a worldy to save the second. Aside from the cross bar being hit, I can't remember him having much else to do! Mousinho - 7 - much better footballer than I realised. Obviously a decent CB but almost feels that limits him. Very good on the ball, enjoyed watching him carry it out of the defence. Compared to last season, we have plenty in that back 4 that have quality distribution. Not sure about the ducking for the second goal! Nelson - 7 - looks unflappable and a solid. Much like Mousinho, enjoyed seeing him carry the ball out of defence...however he tends to try a bit too much! Williamson - 7 - handled a very capable front line of Bradford well. No fuss, solid, and comfortably better than Dunkley. Ricardinho - 7 - outstanding quality on the ball. Great quality when playing the chip down the line (used to call it the wedge of doom with Skarz). An fantastic 1v1 defender and often comes away with the ball starting our counters. Only slight criticism being the space he allows for crosses...sometimes seems a little slow getting out to the player? Henry - 6 - have said on another thread, his work out of possession is good, but gets dispossessed regularly and not sure of his strengths going forwards? I had an image of a lower league beckham when he arrived (based on what a wolves fan had said). Not overly quick, but able to find some space and deliver some quality in to the box. Don't feel we have seen the best of him yet. Hall - 8 - a new player under Clotet, maybe it's the full pre season! Was quite unlucky with Bradford getting in last minute blocks, but is clearly our most electric player when going forward. Seems to have improved when he has his back to goal, receiving the ball to feet. Just a little more end product required, but was one of our top performers yesterday. Ledson - 7 - love watching him play! Some fantastic Lundstram-esque passes in the first half. Despite that he lost possession quite regularly as he always seemed to be the spare man in the centre. He is the perfect foil for Rothwell and does fantastic work in front of the back 4. Rothwell - 9 - for me, was MOTM. Ledson allows him to break from midfield. Effortlessly goes past players, is capable on both his left and right foot. Dynamic when out of possession, hassles the opposition. Was a fantastic all-round performance and hope to see some more! Payne - 8 - enjoy him whilst he's here! Infectious energy, always looking to move the ball forwards. Would imagine a lot of strikers keen to play with him! Appeared to be man marked but still had influence. Already the most assists in league 1, let's hope he stays beyond January! Thomas - 7 - not a natural lone striker, but a very good poacher. Similar to Hemmings, he comes alive in the box. Despite this Pep appears to have him pressing from the front which is good to see! Thought he battled well against the Bradford back 4 and converted his one chance of the game...following in from the shot. Subs GVK - 7 - still undecided. Has ability, and pace, but not sold on him yet. Had a couple of decent shots (for Thomas' goal). Think he is best placed as an impact sub rather than a starter. Mowatt - 7 - will be starting in a few weeks...but not sure who for! Very good on the ball and was part of a change in momentum on 60mins when himself and GVK came on. Ruffels - not on long enough! Sure I will have got some of the above wrong, but thought it was a great all round performance...can't remember the last time we played so well at home! Crikey. a 2-2 draw against an upper-mid table side at home and you see it as a "great performance" where you "can't remember us ever playing this well at home." Quite a statement. If this is true then we are clearly a very weak club who can only aspire to the odd day sharing the spoils with play-off contenders!! There will be plenty of teams this season who manage to do decently at home against Bradford City and get a point. To award our players almost '8' per person for a home draw implies that there is very little room for improvement. I think I'm a little more positive and aspire to a little more than that. So, where can we improve? 1. We haven't conceded that many yet, but we LOOK like conceding to decent teams. Against Shrewsbury it could have been a cricket score, we were that shaky (though to be fair they were a good side). Scunny and Bradford have created plenty against us (MK Dons as well). I've looked again at the various highlights packages and think that we are not managing to exert enough pressure on the ball in defensive midfield situations. 2. That seems to be happening mostly from wide areas where teams have space to play, cross, shoot. Maybe our wide midfielders are too high up the pitch to prevent that play; maybe the full-backs are not the strongest defensively. Either way, it is very noticeable that talented attacking players are finding space against us in wide and semi-wide areas. 3. We manage to create a lot of attacking ball, but not that many clear chances. Other than our two goals last night, I saw one pen claim, one Okish save and one or two other bits and pieces. For a "great performance" that is a measly return when they scored two and hit the cross bar with a great chance. As an away side, that is a decent tally. Most objective observers saw it as a fair result on the balance of play. Before I suggest some solutions, let's outline where we are good. We are moving the ball quicker than under Appleton. We have more quality in depth and therefore competition for places. We look less likely to be physically bullied (though this has not been truly tested yet). These upsides are pretty substantial and meaningful. The only way that I would compare us unfavourably to the second half of last season (when we were a top 5 side, remember) is the lack of potential match-winners. Maguire and McAleny were both that and they won us some tight matches which we are currently not winning. I suspect that Pep will be working hard on the training ground on defensive shape, so am hoping/ assuming that that will improve. In terms of attacking shape, I am - as I have said elsewhere - concerned that our strikers' movement is not quite sharp enough to give the attacking "3" behind the "1" sufficient options. I think that Thomas and Obika are doing fine, actually, but in a competitive league if we want to get into the top two then "fine" might not be enough. I think that we all need to be realistic about this squad. It is the best assembled at OUFC for 20 years, but it has not been built for "the future". Payne, Mowatt and Gino are on loan and in the shop window and will not stay here if we do not get promoted. Williamson is 33 pushing 34; Ricardinho 33; Wes is pushing 31; Mousinho is 31. That is 6 or 7 of our 11 from last night who are either on-loan or nearing the end of their careers. We have gone from having an average age of 22 to an average age of 29, with two of the youngsters bringing the average age down being on loan. So... this is the season for promotion for this squad. There is no point in judging them as a medium-term work in progress. They have to be judged in terms of making the top 6 right here and right now, and preferably the top 2. After 7 games, we are 7 points off the top and level on points with mid-table (a couple of teams have a game in hand). That is a reasonable start (7 out of 10 in my view) and hasn't precluded success this term at all. Furthermore, Pep has got the team moving the ball slickly (a big problem under MApp at times) which gives promise of better to come. But let's not blind ourselves as to the progress that needs to be made. Sheff United and Bolton Wanderers both started poorly last season - far more poorly than we have started this season. But they ended up as very hard-nosed, tough outfits who edged tight games and steam-rollered sides who couldn't match them physically. That's our benchmark... not just to be a team who on their day can give Bradford City a close game. There is no criticism of anyone in the above. I'm impressed by Pep, reckon we have the legendary top 6 budget, and the players are working hard. But let's remember the level of constancy and (relative) excellence it took to get promoted from League 2, narrowly on the last day of the season. Can you just post; "I'm bitter and miserable." It really would save us all from reading through so much drivel to arrive at the same point.
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Post by ttg17 on Sept 13, 2017 16:54:07 GMT
Am I wrong in thinking that their first goal came from a risky Eastwood goal kick across goal that led to us losing possession? Because if not, I think maybe he merits a 6, given he had no real saves to make and his distribution was a little bit poor.
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Post by ciaranjonlucas on Sept 13, 2017 18:01:42 GMT
James Henry must make a cracking Paella to still be getting the nod.
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Post by campbell on Sept 13, 2017 18:39:32 GMT
Not done one of these before so thought I would give it a go! Eastwood - 7 - usual, solid self. Certainly nothing he could have done with the first goal, and would have to be a worldy to save the second. Aside from the cross bar being hit, I can't remember him having much else to do! Mousinho - 7 - much better footballer than I realised. Obviously a decent CB but almost feels that limits him. Very good on the ball, enjoyed watching him carry it out of the defence. Compared to last season, we have plenty in that back 4 that have quality distribution. Not sure about the ducking for the second goal! Nelson - 7 - looks unflappable and a solid. Much like Mousinho, enjoyed seeing him carry the ball out of defence...however he tends to try a bit too much! Williamson - 7 - handled a very capable front line of Bradford well. No fuss, solid, and comfortably better than Dunkley. Ricardinho - 7 - outstanding quality on the ball. Great quality when playing the chip down the line (used to call it the wedge of doom with Skarz). An fantastic 1v1 defender and often comes away with the ball starting our counters. Only slight criticism being the space he allows for crosses...sometimes seems a little slow getting out to the player? Henry - 6 - have said on another thread, his work out of possession is good, but gets dispossessed regularly and not sure of his strengths going forwards? I had an image of a lower league beckham when he arrived (based on what a wolves fan had said). Not overly quick, but able to find some space and deliver some quality in to the box. Don't feel we have seen the best of him yet. Hall - 8 - a new player under Clotet, maybe it's the full pre season! Was quite unlucky with Bradford getting in last minute blocks, but is clearly our most electric player when going forward. Seems to have improved when he has his back to goal, receiving the ball to feet. Just a little more end product required, but was one of our top performers yesterday. Ledson - 7 - love watching him play! Some fantastic Lundstram-esque passes in the first half. Despite that he lost possession quite regularly as he always seemed to be the spare man in the centre. He is the perfect foil for Rothwell and does fantastic work in front of the back 4. Rothwell - 9 - for me, was MOTM. Ledson allows him to break from midfield. Effortlessly goes past players, is capable on both his left and right foot. Dynamic when out of possession, hassles the opposition. Was a fantastic all-round performance and hope to see some more! Payne - 8 - enjoy him whilst he's here! Infectious energy, always looking to move the ball forwards. Would imagine a lot of strikers keen to play with him! Appeared to be man marked but still had influence. Already the most assists in league 1, let's hope he stays beyond January! Thomas - 7 - not a natural lone striker, but a very good poacher. Similar to Hemmings, he comes alive in the box. Despite this Pep appears to have him pressing from the front which is good to see! Thought he battled well against the Bradford back 4 and converted his one chance of the game...following in from the shot. Subs GVK - 7 - still undecided. Has ability, and pace, but not sold on him yet. Had a couple of decent shots (for Thomas' goal). Think he is best placed as an impact sub rather than a starter. Mowatt - 7 - will be starting in a few weeks...but not sure who for! Very good on the ball and was part of a change in momentum on 60mins when himself and GVK came on. Ruffels - not on long enough! Sure I will have got some of the above wrong, but thought it was a great all round performance...can't remember the last time we played so well at home! Crikey. a 2-2 draw against an upper-mid table side at home and you see it as a "great performance" where you "can't remember us ever playing this well at home." Quite a statement. If this is true then we are clearly a very weak club who can only aspire to the odd day sharing the spoils with play-off contenders!! There will be plenty of teams this season who manage to do decently at home against Bradford City and get a point. To award our players almost '8' per person for a home draw implies that there is very little room for improvement. I think I'm a little more positive and aspire to a little more than that. So, where can we improve? 1. We haven't conceded that many yet, but we LOOK like conceding to decent teams. Against Shrewsbury it could have been a cricket score, we were that shaky (though to be fair they were a good side). Scunny and Bradford have created plenty against us (MK Dons as well). I've looked again at the various highlights packages and think that we are not managing to exert enough pressure on the ball in defensive midfield situations. 2. That seems to be happening mostly from wide areas where teams have space to play, cross, shoot. Maybe our wide midfielders are too high up the pitch to prevent that play; maybe the full-backs are not the strongest defensively. Either way, it is very noticeable that talented attacking players are finding space against us in wide and semi-wide areas. 3. We manage to create a lot of attacking ball, but not that many clear chances. Other than our two goals last night, I saw one pen claim, one Okish save and one or two other bits and pieces. For a "great performance" that is a measly return when they scored two and hit the cross bar with a great chance. As an away side, that is a decent tally. Most objective observers saw it as a fair result on the balance of play. Before I suggest some solutions, let's outline where we are good. We are moving the ball quicker than under Appleton. We have more quality in depth and therefore competition for places. We look less likely to be physically bullied (though this has not been truly tested yet). These upsides are pretty substantial and meaningful. The only way that I would compare us unfavourably to the second half of last season (when we were a top 5 side, remember) is the lack of potential match-winners. Maguire and McAleny were both that and they won us some tight matches which we are currently not winning. I suspect that Pep will be working hard on the training ground on defensive shape, so am hoping/ assuming that that will improve. In terms of attacking shape, I am - as I have said elsewhere - concerned that our strikers' movement is not quite sharp enough to give the attacking "3" behind the "1" sufficient options. I think that Thomas and Obika are doing fine, actually, but in a competitive league if we want to get into the top two then "fine" might not be enough. I think that we all need to be realistic about this squad. It is the best assembled at OUFC for 20 years, but it has not been built for "the future". Payne, Mowatt and Gino are on loan and in the shop window and will not stay here if we do not get promoted. Williamson is 33 pushing 34; Ricardinho 33; Wes is pushing 31; Mousinho is 31. That is 6 or 7 of our 11 from last night who are either on-loan or nearing the end of their careers. We have gone from having an average age of 22 to an average age of 29, with two of the youngsters bringing the average age down being on loan. So... this is the season for promotion for this squad. There is no point in judging them as a medium-term work in progress. They have to be judged in terms of making the top 6 right here and right now, and preferably the top 2. After 7 games, we are 7 points off the top and level on points with mid-table (a couple of teams have a game in hand). That is a reasonable start (7 out of 10 in my view) and hasn't precluded success this term at all. Furthermore, Pep has got the team moving the ball slickly (a big problem under MApp at times) which gives promise of better to come. But let's not blind ourselves as to the progress that needs to be made. Sheff United and Bolton Wanderers both started poorly last season - far more poorly than we have started this season. But they ended up as very hard-nosed, tough outfits who edged tight games and steam-rollered sides who couldn't match them physically. That's our benchmark... not just to be a team who on their day can give Bradford City a close game. There is no criticism of anyone in the above. I'm impressed by Pep, reckon we have the legendary top 6 budget, and the players are working hard. But let's remember the level of constancy and (relative) excellence it took to get promoted from League 2, narrowly on the last day of the season. Charlie, you state that Bradford looked like scoring against us and I just have to disagree completely. They scored 1 20 yard 'worldie' which happens once in every 20. They scored a 94th equaliser from a cross in the box. They hit the bar from a scramble when we were chasing the game. I'd make that about 1.5 real chances (the miss was the biggest of the lot). When else did they 'look like scoring'? (Ps they had 2 shots on target all game) We controlled the game against a good team and I feel had we scored first (tell me how we didn't get a pen on rob hall in the first half) then we would have gone on to win the game. I know 99% of your posts are looking for a nibble but they did not look like scoring at all last night.
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Post by ryaniobirdio on Sept 13, 2017 18:48:50 GMT
Not done one of these before so thought I would give it a go! Eastwood - 7 - usual, solid self. Certainly nothing he could have done with the first goal, and would have to be a worldy to save the second. Aside from the cross bar being hit, I can't remember him having much else to do! Mousinho - 7 - much better footballer than I realised. Obviously a decent CB but almost feels that limits him. Very good on the ball, enjoyed watching him carry it out of the defence. Compared to last season, we have plenty in that back 4 that have quality distribution. Not sure about the ducking for the second goal! Nelson - 7 - looks unflappable and a solid. Much like Mousinho, enjoyed seeing him carry the ball out of defence...however he tends to try a bit too much! Williamson - 7 - handled a very capable front line of Bradford well. No fuss, solid, and comfortably better than Dunkley. Ricardinho - 7 - outstanding quality on the ball. Great quality when playing the chip down the line (used to call it the wedge of doom with Skarz). An fantastic 1v1 defender and often comes away with the ball starting our counters. Only slight criticism being the space he allows for crosses...sometimes seems a little slow getting out to the player? Henry - 6 - have said on another thread, his work out of possession is good, but gets dispossessed regularly and not sure of his strengths going forwards? I had an image of a lower league beckham when he arrived (based on what a wolves fan had said). Not overly quick, but able to find some space and deliver some quality in to the box. Don't feel we have seen the best of him yet. Hall - 8 - a new player under Clotet, maybe it's the full pre season! Was quite unlucky with Bradford getting in last minute blocks, but is clearly our most electric player when going forward. Seems to have improved when he has his back to goal, receiving the ball to feet. Just a little more end product required, but was one of our top performers yesterday. Ledson - 7 - love watching him play! Some fantastic Lundstram-esque passes in the first half. Despite that he lost possession quite regularly as he always seemed to be the spare man in the centre. He is the perfect foil for Rothwell and does fantastic work in front of the back 4. Rothwell - 9 - for me, was MOTM. Ledson allows him to break from midfield. Effortlessly goes past players, is capable on both his left and right foot. Dynamic when out of possession, hassles the opposition. Was a fantastic all-round performance and hope to see some more! Payne - 8 - enjoy him whilst he's here! Infectious energy, always looking to move the ball forwards. Would imagine a lot of strikers keen to play with him! Appeared to be man marked but still had influence. Already the most assists in league 1, let's hope he stays beyond January! Thomas - 7 - not a natural lone striker, but a very good poacher. Similar to Hemmings, he comes alive in the box. Despite this Pep appears to have him pressing from the front which is good to see! Thought he battled well against the Bradford back 4 and converted his one chance of the game...following in from the shot. Subs GVK - 7 - still undecided. Has ability, and pace, but not sold on him yet. Had a couple of decent shots (for Thomas' goal). Think he is best placed as an impact sub rather than a starter. Mowatt - 7 - will be starting in a few weeks...but not sure who for! Very good on the ball and was part of a change in momentum on 60mins when himself and GVK came on. Ruffels - not on long enough! Sure I will have got some of the above wrong, but thought it was a great all round performance...can't remember the last time we played so well at home! We have gone from having an average age of 22 to an average age of 29 The average age of our starting lineup last night was actually just under 27. I'll do a breakdown of ages if need be. We also made three subs and the oldest of those was GvK at 24. We also had players on the bench who weren't used including Carroll who is, what, 18? And how old is Xemi? 22? That's a hell of a long way short of an average age of 29, both in terms of the team that started and then finished the match. You've literally plucked that figure out of thin air and are presenting it as fact, like when you repeatedly said O'Dowda had something like 17 assists in his final season, which was categorically untrue. If you're going to contribute at least tell the truth and do your research. Leave the PR spin at your day job - it makes you look as stupid as you always claim everybody else is when you wheel it out on here for it to be shot down over and over. Sorry, but in the age of 'fake news' where just spouting random b*llshit and presenting it confidently as fact can make things like Brexit and President Trump a reality, I take this rather seriously.
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Post by Oxford Nondie on Sept 13, 2017 19:15:02 GMT
Come on guys - what Charlie is saying is opening up a debate which can be argued both ways.
Worryingly I do agree with him is where are our goals coming from ?
Maguire is not a loss BUT we could learn from Mc... the guy who went to Fleetwood. His shoot when ever there is an opportunity needs to be worked into our game plan. Yes we can walk the ball in Arsenal style as per the second goal ( and a good goal it was ) but like Bradford's first there is merit in adopting this policy.
Whilst not actually saying it was a great performance - the style of our football while needing an element of patience when watching - is very pleasing to the eye.
Okay when at home you seek a more gun ho approach am sure on away days it will enable us to bag a significant number of points / wins.
So not great but getting there !
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Post by ryaniobirdio on Sept 13, 2017 19:22:36 GMT
Come on guys - what Charlie is saying is opening up a debate which can be argued both ways. Worryingly I do agree with him is where are our goals coming from ? Maguire is not a loss BUT we could learn from Mc... the guy who went to Fleetwood. His shoot when ever there is an opportunity needs to be worked into our game plan. Yes we can walk the ball in Arsenal style as per the second goal ( and a good goal it was ) but like Bradford's first there is merit in adopting this policy. Whilst not actually saying it was a great performance - the style of our football while needing an element of patience when watching - is very pleasing to the eye. Okay when at home you seek a more gun ho approach am sure on away days it will enable us to bag a significant number of points / wins. So not great but getting there ! No it can't - he presented a fact that is categorically untrue and can be proven so. You can't turn around and say that actually, water is dry and grass is yellow and go "Come on, isn't that at least sort of true?" The average age of the starting lineup wasn't anywhere near 29. Nor was / is the squad. This isn't up for debate and there isn't a middle ground.
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Post by scotchegg on Sept 13, 2017 19:50:19 GMT
Come on guys - what Charlie is saying is opening up a debate which can be argued both ways. Worryingly I do agree with him is where are our goals coming from ? Maguire is not a loss BUT we could learn from Mc... the guy who went to Fleetwood. His shoot when ever there is an opportunity needs to be worked into our game plan. Yes we can walk the ball in Arsenal style as per the second goal ( and a good goal it was ) but like Bradford's first there is merit in adopting this policy. Whilst not actually saying it was a great performance - the style of our football while needing an element of patience when watching - is very pleasing to the eye. Okay when at home you seek a more gun ho approach am sure on away days it will enable us to bag a significant number of points / wins. So not great but getting there ! 21 goals scored from pretty much everyone and from everywhere. Many of our goals have been of the highest quality and demonstrate that we can both pick teams apart and shoot on sight. All of this is coming from a team/manager that is still learning and getting to know and get the best out of each other. If this causes you (or numpty boy) to worry then I refer you back a few years ago when we couldn't hit a barn door half the time!
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Post by berliner on Sept 13, 2017 19:53:57 GMT
Maguire is not a loss BUT we could learn from Mc... the guy who went to Fleetwood. His shoot when ever there is an opportunity needs to be worked into our game plan.As soon as Mowatt is fit and playing, it will be...
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Post by bazzer9461 on Sept 13, 2017 20:04:49 GMT
I don't understand the ratings.... presumably 1 I assume is abject and 10 is out of this world ? I would have given Hall and Ledson a 8 just for their sheer energy. Mous only an average 5 I'm afraid along with Nelson The rest a 6 which I suppose is good ?? Think you need a lesson in ratings, they are pretty accurate to what I saw last night
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