Considering the performances and results of recent weeks, this game was far from poor. Some of the first half was dross but, 90+ minutes of some recent games were dross.
On the whole, most of our squad had an ok or better game. For me, the exception was Rogers. Too often loosing possession, not fighting to regain the ball, short passes to a team mate with an opposition player already administering a rectal examination and limited off the ball movement. He did have the usual (and expected) flashes where a sweet pass was put in and, I will admit, some of the possession loosing balls were actually good passes- the intended recipient failing to be on the same page of the song sheet.
Gladwin is so frustrating. He looks really happy to have the ball at his feet, ploughing his way forward and he often looks like he is scaring the shit out of the opposition. He then goes into Byrne mode- trying to beat just one more player instead of putting the pass in......
I thought Barry had one of his better games yesterday. I see in him the seed of a good player. Give him time and support and let him mature physically. I mean, not long ago, yesterdays deserved MOM Raffa was being slated as a useless liability. He has developed into a worthy captain.
Same with BOO. He is young and has yet to grow. he will also develop I think. On Saturday, once he felt comfortable (second half), he was getting down the wing and lobbing some peachy crosses in. I think we need both our wings to do that- make progress, get to the line and pump the ball in. Don't bother looking for out attackers, trust them to be there. Our forwards and midfield will then start realising that service is available and make use of it.
3 fucking points!
!!!!