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25% => The Boardroom => Topic started by: Flashheart on Friday, January 18, 2019, 20:19:48



Title: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Flashheart on Friday, January 18, 2019, 20:19:48
Just wondering what peoples' opinion are so far.

His appointment was met with much derision but has not turned out to be the disaster that many were expecting. He's not exactly excelled either, though. A bit hit and miss.

Personally, I like what he's tried to do so far but he just hasn't had the right personnel. That's not to say he hasn't inherited a good squad, but an imbalanced squad. I'm confident that with a few tweeks, he can turn those draws into wins.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Reg Smeeton on Friday, January 18, 2019, 20:29:49
 He's doing OK... when he came we were 16th now 12th.... he's got us above PV, Cobblers, Crawley and Yeovil...certainly a better prospect than dropping us 4 places.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: The Artist Formerly Known as Audrey on Friday, January 18, 2019, 20:32:29
Impressed so far. Appears he takes shit from nobody. I like the style he is trying to implement - albeit being let down by the lack of a striker.

Got a free pass for the rest of this season as it seems he is building with next season in mind.

It’s still a fairly shitty league and a few consecutive wins may give us summat to get excited about.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Sir red ken on Friday, January 18, 2019, 20:33:43
He only needs 5 or 6 more wins and the town are safe for another season. Based on that result I'd say he's been a success.
His remit next year will be to keep us around mid, to upper mid position, with the chance of a playoff place during the run in.
And the same the year after that and the year after that.


Title: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Batch on Friday, January 18, 2019, 20:52:18
He's done better than I expected, but I'm glad he's got experience in his backroom now.

It's still far too early to say one way or the other really.

Like you say it's been hit and miss, last week was an example of miss in his subs, there have been hits in that regard too.

Recruitment is also hard to judge right now, again that's not going to play out until next season. Not sure why we've brought Rose in, at least in preference to a winger or striker, but we don't know what's going on in the bigger picture.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: suttonred on Friday, January 18, 2019, 21:20:33
Impressed so far. Appears he takes shit from nobody. I like the style he is trying to implement - albeit being let down by the lack of a striker.

Got a free pass for the rest of this season as it seems he is building with next season in mind.

It’s still a fairly shitty league and a few consecutive wins may give us summat to get excited about.

Pretty much this.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Super Hans on Friday, January 18, 2019, 21:41:16
Too early to say but gut feeling is he will get it right given time. I was quite impressed with how we played as a team v Lincoln given it was my first game in ages and expected worse. We lacked quality in forward areas which is clearly our downfall. No surprise that hasnt quite been rectified yet, he's been here a month and our striker options are poor.

I'm glad we've got a younger manager like Wellens in. It's a decent sized club for him to fall into and he'll be determined to do well. May just fall short this season and have to rebuild somewhat in the summer.

Not writing this season off yet though. Two or 3 wins and we're well in the PO mix.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Boeta on Friday, January 18, 2019, 22:52:22
Short term results have been passable, but then he’s been dealing with the heap that Flitcroft and Brown left him.

Talks a good game, no bullshit, astute analysis, has a clear way of playing he’s trying to implement, obviously really cares and wants to make a success of it.

Cautiously quite optimistic.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Peter Venkman on Saturday, January 19, 2019, 10:22:26
From what I have seen so far in his 11 games 4 wins 4 draws and 3 defeats I think he has shown promise, obviously the first defeat can almost be discounted as it happened 3 days after his appointment, So since he has been able to influence things 4 wins 4 draws and 2 defeats in the league ok TBF, not pulling tree stumps but steadying the ship.

He has made some "on paper" decent signings and he has acted quickly in getting personel in unlike his forebears who often dawdled right up to deadline day.

On the pitch we are playing much better football than under Flipflop and Brown who both played more of the percentage game playing for and using set peices to score.

We play a decent passing and running game under Wellens which when it works is lovely to watch but the players are not all capable of playing that way. I think he has the players playing tactics that they are familiar with unlike under Brown which confused everyone and Flipflops.....hooooooffff.

He has chosen unwisely on substitutions at times but we are not able to see what happens in training which may explain his decisions which to the fan can look unusual at times.

We are still lacking a striker, yes he has brought in Ben House but I haven't seen him yet and he has only played a matter of 18 minutes in a Town shirt so he MAY be the striker we need...we will see. Richards has not hit any fitness or form yet but showed glimpses against Lincoln that he still has some ability at this level but not playing in the role that Wellens wants him to play.

Over all I think we are playing a far better more attractive style of play in 80% of games and it is entertaining but we just seriously lack goals.

As others have said, until the end of this season its pretty much a free hit for Wellens but if we can string along some sort of form we could feasibly still reach the play offs but I will settle for top 10 finish with some good results and no thrashings with Wellens getting in his own players.

7/10 has made mistakes has done some good but considering he was hated by many even before he managed a game for us, and he was nowhere near my top 10 applicants, I think hes done ok.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Shrivvy Road on Tuesday, January 29, 2019, 08:43:10
Much better than i expected and a bit of fresh air around the place i think. Be interesting to see how Power backs him in the summer as that will obviously be key to how he does long term for the club. Fingers crossed


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Batch on Tuesday, January 29, 2019, 09:14:04
Oddly, I've a couple of question marks against him now compared to when I previously posted.

Probably just Saturdays blip talking.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Cookie on Tuesday, January 29, 2019, 09:32:11
Saturday was the first example of obviously poor decision making but I don't know whether there's mitigating circumstances behind the scenes such as Knoyle not 100% or shitting on his cornflakes.

 


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Peter Venkman on Tuesday, January 29, 2019, 10:00:34
Much better than i expected and a bit of fresh air around the place i think. Be interesting to see how Power backs him in the summer as that will obviously be key to how he does long term for the club. Fingers crossed
I agree, considering pretty nobody wanted him as manager before he signed hes won over a fair few fans, myself included, already.

Probably just Saturdays blip talking.
I am sure it is still the after effects of such a poor game and result.

Saturday was the first example of obviously poor decision making but I don't know whether there's mitigating circumstances behind the scenes such as Knoyle not 100% or shitting on his cornflakes.
Absolutely, we are not privvy to injury status or other disagreements, hopefully they will be settled soon either way and Knoyle reinstated in the starting line up.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Batch on Tuesday, January 29, 2019, 11:40:28
Quote from: Cookie
Saturday was the first example of obviously poor decision making but I don't know whether there's mitigating circumstances behind the scenes such as Knoyle not 100% or shitting on his cornflakes.

 

actually I thought Lincoln was, but that was understandable as trying new things.

yes we don't know what knoyle's state is regarding fitness/attitude


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Flashheart on Tuesday, January 29, 2019, 11:50:05
My opinion remains the same. I'm not going to let it be swayed by 1 performance.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Reg Smeeton on Tuesday, January 29, 2019, 12:42:47
My opinion remains the same. I'm not going to let it be swayed by 1 performance.

So it should.... Wellens has still got us in 12th spot a rise of 4 places over PB... and has a points rate of 1.4 a game, against PB's 1.2 a game. So we're on course for a solid mid table finish about 12/13th, whereas at PB's rate it'd been about 14th/15th.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Power to people on Tuesday, January 29, 2019, 12:43:35
actually I thought Lincoln was, but that was understandable as trying new things.

yes we don't know what knoyle's state is regarding fitness/attitude

I actually thought this ref Dave, it seems strange that he is not making the bench at least to give him some minutes, he must have really upset Wellens - or they are trying to force him out by not playing him as he is a high earner


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Batch on Tuesday, January 29, 2019, 13:03:40
or there is a Christian Roberts type thing going on.

whatever it is, it's not just fitness or ability.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Flashheart on Tuesday, January 29, 2019, 13:07:21
Or perhaps, maybe, he really just is not fit enough yet? Wellens did say recently he was arranging a development game to raise his fitness.

Why is it so difficult to believe that a player that hasn't played much because of injury is just not ready yet? Why does everything have to be a conspiracy?


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Batch on Tuesday, January 29, 2019, 13:18:03
it's not conspiracy, it's just I don't see the need for him and rose.

it's just opinion trying to make sense of it all, and even if I'm right it's not meant to be taken as pro or anti the decision.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Trashbat? on Tuesday, January 29, 2019, 13:30:58
The last game TD played in was Cambridge where he played that awful no look pass that let them in for their first....It has seemed strange he hasn't played a minute since then.



Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: DiV on Tuesday, January 29, 2019, 13:35:00
Wellens has done enough to convince me he should be allowed the rest of the season / summer to so what he wants to do with the team.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Flashheart on Tuesday, January 29, 2019, 13:37:57

it's not just fitness or ability.

This is what I don't get, batch. And I am not having a dig at you personally so you should not take it as such. (Although I will personally dig at the comment above that about him being forced out over wages, that's proper conspiracy theory bollocks)

Dave is a footballer. Footballer's get injured and spend time not playing as a result. Dave has been injured recently. Even the manager has mentioned his fitness recently.

I'm baffled as to how so many people are ruling out injury/fitness as the cause. It's hardly a leap.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: RobertT on Tuesday, January 29, 2019, 13:43:54
In general I think things are better under Wellens than under Brown, and more watchable than Flitcroft - the odd game notwithstanding!

We seem to have more of a plan, which we are trying to stick to.  If we sacrifice a few games along the way to get players playing on instinct, fine, I'll take that long term - but it does make games like the last one very frustrating to watch.

Like under Brown, no team we have played has seemed beyond us.

The Lincoln game I can see that there is some debate you could have about what needed to change, but Saturday's game was the first time I think bad tactical decisions were made that seemed obviously wrong.  To my previous point, if that is to ensure consistency of selection and tactics with longer term gain in mind, fine, but don't spin it another way.

If you extract the Carlisle game, which I do think is fair as he didn't really pick the team or tactics, so it was as if a caretaker was in charge, then he's won 5, drawn 4 and lost 3, which brings it to 1.46 points per game, which would be around the play offs.  If you add the other loss  it is 1.36 points per game, which would be below.  Hopefully, the players become more familiar with the system and improve so we edge more towards and above the 1.46.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Batch on Tuesday, January 29, 2019, 13:46:31
This is what I don't get, batch. And I am not having a dig at you personally so you should not take it as such. (Although I will personally dig at the comment above that about him being forced out over wages, that's proper conspiracy theory bollocks)

Dave is a footballer. Footballer's get injured and spend time not playing as a result. Dave has been injured recently. Even the manager has mentioned his fitness recently.

I'm baffled as to how so many people are ruling out injury/fitness as the cause. It's hardly a leap.

Quite within rights to have a personal dig. I'll only get a bit stroppy :)

Ok you are right, I'll concede it *could* be down to fitness. He has certainly been injured.

My opinion is just based on the bits we know, and it goes without saying that there are many explanations:

- Dropped after Cambridge game, rumours of breach of discipline (taxigate)
- Signed two players that can play in his position (Rose, Carroll)
- Talk of "wanting to stay at the club" (I think this was from a Wellens presser)
- Not been near the squad since recovery (and yes he may be off fitness)

Not wanting to argue, just defend my reasoning - which may be wrong -
----
In any case he's been a disappointment/chocolate teapot thus far.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Batch on Tuesday, January 29, 2019, 13:48:32
Wellens has done enough to convince me he should be allowed the rest of the season / summer to so what he wants to do with the team.

He inherited an unbalanced squad, he deserves that at least.



Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Quagmire on Tuesday, January 29, 2019, 13:49:19
It was only 3 weeks ago Wellens said in a  post match interview that TD was exactly the player we needed.
A fully fit and firing TD wouldnt be playing in league 2, I think his fitness issues are half the reason we managed to sign him in the summer.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: DiV on Tuesday, January 29, 2019, 13:49:31
Perhaps he’s just shit now?



Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Reg Smeeton on Tuesday, January 29, 2019, 14:20:09
Quite within rights to have a personal dig. I'll only get a bit stroppy :)

Ok you are right, I'll concede it *could* be down to fitness. He has certainly been injured.

My opinion is just based on the bits we know, and it goes without saying that there are many explanations:

- Dropped after Cambridge game, rumours of breach of discipline (taxigate)
- Signed two players that can play in his position (Rose, Carroll)
- Talk of "wanting to stay at the club" (I think this was from a Wellens presser)
- Not been near the squad since recovery (and yes he may be off fitness)

Not wanting to argue, just defend my reasoning - which may be wrong -
----
In any case he's been a disappointment/chocolate teapot thus far.

Your reasonoing is sound.... the clincher is that Wellens said he asked Toumani if he wanted to go out on loan.... if you're injured, can you really go out on loan  :hmmm:


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Quagmire on Tuesday, January 29, 2019, 14:24:28
Your reasonoing is sound.... the clincher is that Wellens said he asked Toumani if he wanted to go out on loan.... if you're injured, can you really go out on loan  :hmmm:
He asked him if he wanted to go out on loan to gain match fitness Reg, he’s said god knows how many times he’s training but not up to speed.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Reg Smeeton on Tuesday, January 29, 2019, 14:28:04
He asked him if he wanted to go out on loan to gain match fitness Reg, he’s said god knows how many times he’s training but not up to speed.

But if you're fit,  but not 90 mins fit and wanted, you can come off the bench, and work your way up from that.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: horlock07 on Tuesday, January 29, 2019, 15:21:06

In any case he's been a disappointment/chocolate teapot thus far.

A bit racist  ;)  :Ride On Fatbury's Lovestick:

But if you're fit,  but not 90 mins fit and wanted, you can come off the bench, and work your way up from that.

Do you, in the absence of stiffs these days any number of players go out on loan after injury to get match fit.  This is all getting a little tin foily hats.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Batch on Tuesday, January 29, 2019, 15:24:16
that's not what I... oh.. you


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Reg Smeeton on Tuesday, January 29, 2019, 15:37:55
A bit racist  ;)  :Ride On Fatbury's Lovestick:

Do you, in the absence of stiffs these days any number of players go out on loan after injury to get match fit.  This is all getting a little tin foily hats.

Marc Richards would be similar to Toumani.... missed pre season, got back to fitness but needed getting match fitness, we eased him back becasue we wanted him, I don't think Wellens wants Toumani.

We don't have enough players to be using loans for various purposes, we're not a Chelsea or Man City, when we loan someone other than an occasional youth loan. It's usually because they're being moved on as not required.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: horlock07 on Tuesday, January 29, 2019, 15:44:36
Marc Richards would be similar to Toumani.... missed pre season, got back to fitness but needed getting match fitness, we eased him back becasue we wanted him, I don't think Wellens wants Toumani.

We don't have enough players to be using loans for various purposes, we're not a Chelsea or Man City, when we loan someone other than an occasional youth loan. It's usually because they're being moved on as not required.

I'll by all means engage if you keep to the facts

 :Ride On Fatbury's Lovestick: :Ride On Fatbury's Lovestick: :Ride On Fatbury's Lovestick:


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Reg Smeeton on Tuesday, January 29, 2019, 15:57:39
:Ride On Fatbury's Lovestick: :Ride On Fatbury's Lovestick: :Ride On Fatbury's Lovestick:

 I tried to avoid asking you to provide examples of any numbers of players after injury who go out on loan , but seeing as you insist... go on then.

 Further, while you're at it back up your rofling with examples of in recent years where we've loaned out someone, who we want to keep... I'll give you Vigs to get started with....

PS.  I'll give you 9 from what might be called the Power years who've been loaned out as surplus to requirements, just to keep to the facts.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: horlock07 on Tuesday, January 29, 2019, 16:55:46
I tried to avoid asking you to provide examples of any numbers of players after injury who go out on loan , but seeing as you insist... go on then.

 Further, while you're at it back up your rofling with examples of in recent years where we've loaned out someone, who we want to keep... I'll give you Vigs to get started with....

PS.  I'll give you 9 from what might be called the Power years who've been loaned out as surplus to requirements, just to keep to the facts.

Google is your friend.

FWIW I was actually making then point that after playing bobby big balls on facts the other day you were once again engaging in rampant speculation to support the conspiracy being peddled.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Reg Smeeton on Tuesday, January 29, 2019, 17:13:39
Google is your friend.

FWIW I was actually making then point that after playing bobby big balls on facts the other day you were once again engaging in rampant speculation to support the conspiracy being peddled.

No, what I was doing is what I always do... try and back up the speculation with some sort of factual evidence, in this case, the evidence is that you can find 9 Power era players who have been loaned out prior to moving on, the odd youth loan like a Twine who may or may not be under contract next season, but none where someone not fit has gone out to try and get fit and then come back in.

Now, of course, because it's not happened before doesn't necessarily mean it can't happen this time, but in terms of the rigour required on a football forum, the weight of evidence leans to Wellens not seeing Toumani as part of his immediate plans for whatever reason


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Flashheart on Friday, July 5, 2019, 10:22:35
I can't remember the last time I wanted a manager to succeed as much as I do with this guy. He's pushing all the right buttons on and off the field. It's such an improvement over vague musings about microwaves and the like.

Just hope it translates into performances and results on the pitch.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Sippo on Friday, July 5, 2019, 10:24:27
I think a good start is needed. Our fans lack patience. Will we go up? Who knows, it certainly looks a lot more promising.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Cowley38 on Friday, July 5, 2019, 10:29:05
No, what I was doing is what I always do... try and back up the speculation with some sort of factual evidence, in this case, the evidence is that you can find 9 Power era players who have been loaned out prior to moving on, the odd youth loan like a Twine who may or may not be under contract next season, but none where someone not fit has gone out to try and get fit and then come back in.

Now, of course, because it's not happened before doesn't necessarily mean it can't happen this time, but in terms of the rigour required on a football forum, the weight of evidence leans to Wellens not seeing Toumani as part of his immediate plans for whatever reason

I find it funny if anyone challenges you your first response is the ' I always back up the speculation with some sort of factual evidence' as if you are trying to convince yourself that what your saying is actually believable......

And to be honest some of that 'factual evidence' is flimsy or loose and thats  being generous..


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Flashheart on Friday, July 5, 2019, 10:34:23
Please let's not turn this into another Reg-fest.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Reg Smeeton on Friday, July 5, 2019, 11:05:45
Please let's not turn this into another Reg-fest.

I think what I posted in this thread stands up as factual.... predicted 12th/13th place finish.  Players are loaned out when not required, other than youth loans.  Robertson and JMcG post Jan examples.... nobody loaned out to find fitness.

I'm happy leaving it there.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: stfcjack on Friday, July 5, 2019, 11:42:53
I can't remember the last time I wanted a manager to succeed as much as I do with this guy. He's pushing all the right buttons on and off the field. It's such an improvement over vague musings about microwaves and the like.

Just hope it translates into performances and results on the pitch.

Couldn't agree more to be honest, he comes across extremely well and really admire his efforts to connect with the community and get the youngsters involved, it goes a long way. So refreshing to be heading into the season with a plan of action, and with a squad that is going to be ready to go on the first game of the season, as opposed to the last few years where everyone is still settling in at the start! Let's hope this positivity will give us a much needed boost and get us out of this ghastly division.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Peter Venkman on Friday, July 5, 2019, 11:43:58
Couldn't agree more to be honest, he comes across extremely well and really admire his efforts to connect with the community and get the youngsters involved, it goes a long way. So refreshing to be heading into the season with a plan of action, and with a squad that is going to be ready to go on the first game of the season, as opposed to the last few years where everyone is still settling in at the start! Let's hope this positivity will give us a much needed boost and get us out of this ghastly division.
This.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: 4D on Friday, July 5, 2019, 11:45:48
Please let's not turn this into another Reg-fest.

Yes Cowley  :)


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Cowley38 on Friday, July 5, 2019, 11:55:43
Yes Cowley  :)

Ok I'll leave him alone...... :zipped:


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Shrivvy Road on Friday, July 5, 2019, 13:54:35
Grown on me alot if i am honest. My only slight concern is i do think he has it in him to fall out with players easily but i forget in manager terms he is young. Let us hope he learns from it


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: normy on Friday, July 5, 2019, 15:02:51
My optimism is at its greatest since the Di Canio era


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Batch on Friday, July 5, 2019, 15:17:17
Cautiously optimistic. And given how I felt when he arrived that's quite the turn around.

The proof is in the pudding as the saying goes, but he hasn't done a lot wrong so far. I like he's trying to re-engage a jaded fanbase/community a lot.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: OOH! SHAUN TAYLOR on Friday, July 5, 2019, 17:50:46
I think it's perfectly reasonable to be feeling a bit of hope and optimism going into the new season with Richie. That's  as much as you can ask for as a fan of a lower league club.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Richie Wellen-Dowd on Friday, July 5, 2019, 18:00:37
I like him. I like his attitude and his values. He might have been a little naive at times but that's to be expected. Going forward I expect his no nonsense approach to bear fruit.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: BambooToTheFuture on Friday, July 5, 2019, 18:41:53
I find he's like Cooper with less of the blame game going on. He rightly calls out players/himself/fans when needed but is also quick to compliment. Could he be a blend of Cooper/Di Canio? Just way less erratic than PdC and with less budgie. We live in interestring times! :hmmm:


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: suttonred on Friday, July 5, 2019, 20:37:16
FFS what have budgies ever done to you? Outrageous comment. Birdist..

I'll echo batch's comments. Normally I'm very confident, but the last 3 seasons have knocked that out of me.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Wobbly Bob on Monday, November 4, 2019, 19:24:59
A minor stat, but Wellens has just completed 46 league games, albeit spread over two seasons.

P46 W20 D13 L13 F68 A54 PTS 73

Still classed as a rookie manager I guess but that's not too bad and should hopefully improve as the season progresses.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: The Artist Formerly Known as Audrey on Monday, November 4, 2019, 19:55:29
That’s the POs almost every season - minimum achievement, I reckon.

Won’t take much of an improvement this season to get top 3.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Nijholts Nuts on Tuesday, November 5, 2019, 07:50:31
I do worry that he may get poached if we get promotion this season, especially with links to his former clubs.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Costanza on Tuesday, November 5, 2019, 08:07:12
He's not bad for a part-timer, eh!


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: dphunt88 on Tuesday, November 5, 2019, 08:45:42
A minor stat, but Wellens has just completed 46 league games, albeit spread over two seasons.

P46 W20 D13 L13 F68 A54 PTS 73

Still classed as a rookie manager I guess but that's not too bad and should hopefully improve as the season progresses.

Home record:

P24, W11, D6, L7, F35, A28, Pts 39, Clean Sheets 7, Fail-to-Score 8

Away record:

P22, W9, D7, L6, F33, A26, Pts 34, Clean Sheets 7, Fail-to-Score 4.



Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Reg Smeeton on Tuesday, November 5, 2019, 09:30:45
 Wellens has improved on last season, after improving on Brown, to get the predicted 13th place finish.

 He also this season got the needed results after a poor trot.... all good signs.

 However he will come up against 2 things which he pointed out last season as a problem.... namely key men on loan, and too many in the squad not contributing much.  It wil be how the management team resolve this in Jan which will decide if we're going anywhere in 2020.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: pauld on Tuesday, November 5, 2019, 09:56:54
Wellens has improved on last season, after improving on Brown, to get the predicted 13th place finish.

 He also this season got the needed results after a poor trot.... all good signs.

 However he will come up against 2 things which he pointed out last season as a problem.... namely key men on loan, and too many in the squad not contributing much.  It wil be how the management team resolve this in Jan which will decide if we're going anywhere in 2020.
On the latter, he was quoted in the Adver yesterday as saying he wants to reduce the squad by 5 in January


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Reg Smeeton on Tuesday, November 5, 2019, 10:00:37
On the latter, he was quoted in the Adver yesterday as saying he wants to reduce the squad by 5 in January

But will he be able to do it?


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: horlock07 on Tuesday, November 5, 2019, 10:05:15
Wellens has improved on last season, after improving on Brown, to get the predicted 13th place finish.

 

Predicted by who?


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: reeves4england on Tuesday, November 5, 2019, 10:09:18
On the latter, he was quoted in the Adver yesterday as saying he wants to reduce the squad by 5 in January
Quite, but as Reg points out it's a case of whether they can make this happen. Wasn't so easy to shift deadwood in the summer.

Looking at the upcoming fixtures, only 2 of our remaining 7 games in 2019 are against a team in the current top 10. Definitely a chance to push on ahead of any potential outgoings in January.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Reg Smeeton on Tuesday, November 5, 2019, 10:15:11
Predicted by who?

You could re read the thread, but....

Quote
So we're on course for a solid mid table finish about 12/13th, whereas at PB's rate it'd been about 14th/15th.

This was from Jan


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: pauld on Tuesday, November 5, 2019, 10:19:01
You could re read the thread, but....

This was from Jan
It's like having Mystic Meg here with us :)


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Reg Smeeton on Tuesday, November 5, 2019, 10:33:09
Looking at the upcoming fixtures, only 2 of our remaining 7 games in 2019 are against a team in the current top 10. Definitely a chance to push on ahead of any potential outgoings in January.

I'm only looking as far ahead as Salford.... expected them to do better, but they do seem now to have adjusted 4 wins and a draw in the last 6. To show how tight things are if Salford win they'll be within 3 points of us, so definitely back in the mix.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: THE FLASH on Tuesday, November 5, 2019, 11:53:46
I think it's unlikely that there will be a runaway leading pack this season.

Even this year's bully boys Newport have a tendency to drop points.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: 4D on Tuesday, November 5, 2019, 12:06:46
It's like having Mystic Meg here with us :)

Rustic Reg?  :)


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: pauld on Tuesday, November 5, 2019, 12:12:11
Rustic Reg?  :)
:D


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Peter Venkman on Tuesday, November 5, 2019, 12:41:07
Rusty Reg?  :)


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: swindonmaniac on Thursday, November 7, 2019, 11:04:25
I'm only looking as far ahead as Salford.... expected them to do better, but they do seem now to have adjusted 4 wins and a draw in the last 6. To show how tight things are if Salford win they'll be within 3 points of us, so definitely back in the mix.
IF is the word Reg,   and, IF we win we could go top !!.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Reg Smeeton on Thursday, November 7, 2019, 11:11:46
IF is the word Reg,   and, IF we win we could go top !!.

True, but at this stage it sort of reflects where we are, in the mix, but not able to get carried away.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: singingiiiffy on Monday, December 16, 2019, 22:02:29
Quote
“I have never liked 4-4-2. I don’t mind it when I have Lloyd Isgrove and Keshi Anderson playing wide because they are clever players

Am I right in thinking that when Wellens first arrived he said his favourite formation is 4,4,2 with wingers. But that he couldn't play it here because of the lack of personel. We only had Jermain McG and possibly Woolery so he didn't enforce it.

Maybe he has changed his mind! or maybe I'm remembering it wrong. as soon as i saw the start of this quote it surprised me though!


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: theakston2k on Monday, December 16, 2019, 22:17:43
Am I right in thinking that when Wellens first arrived he said his favourite formation is 4,4,2 with wingers. But that he couldn't play it here because of the lack of personel. We only had Jermain McG and possibly Woolery so he didn't enforce it.

Maybe he has changed his mind! or maybe I'm remembering it wrong. as soon as i saw the start of this quote it surprised me though!
He did say that and we were that on Saturday with DJ and Woolery on the wings. Sometimes it’s more of 3 when Lyden plays, that’s the good thing now we have multiple ways of setting up which effectively gives us a ‘plan B’ without the need to resorting to hitting it long to a target man as some have advocated.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: donkey on Tuesday, December 17, 2019, 09:35:11
So far...Wellens Is doing a great job.  Love the football were playing.  :-)


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: The Artist Formerly Known as Audrey on Tuesday, December 17, 2019, 10:17:44
We’re playing Bristol City this pm to get some minutes into Isgrove . . .

. . . And to look at Semenyo?


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Reg Smeeton on Tuesday, December 17, 2019, 12:52:47
Quite, but as Reg points out it's a case of whether they can make this happen. Wasn't so easy to shift deadwood in the summer.

Looking at the upcoming fixtures, only 2 of our remaining 7 games in 2019 are against a team in the current top 10. Definitely a chance to push on ahead of any potential outgoings in January.

A astute observation... we do have this interesting record, of having won 12/12 of the teams currently in the lower half of the table and 1/12 ofthe teams in the top half.  Cambridge weren't top half at the time.... that's something that will need to be put right, starting Saturday. 


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: RobertT on Tuesday, December 17, 2019, 13:04:00
Actually, it need not be put right - if we repeated all our results we'd finish in the top three, job done.  Nobody checks the results and gives relative weighting to the points received.

The job at hand is simple, get enough points to get promoted.  Current progress is good.  January offers a chance to wobble or solidify, evidence so far suggests Wellens has improved the squad with each of his two transfer windows, so I can hope we get through it at least unscathed.

Do two experienced Right Backs equate to the Championship, or maybe a double promotion?


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: brocklesby red on Tuesday, December 17, 2019, 13:06:46
A astute observation... we do have this interesting record, of having won 12/12 of the teams currently in the lower half of the table and 1/12 ofthe teams in the top half.  Cambridge weren't top half at the time.... that's something that will need to be put right, starting Saturday.  
I’m sorry but that’s not correct. Bury and Franchise were promoted with 79 points last season, if we only beat the bottom 12 teams in our remaining fixtures, we’ll get promoted.However, we’ll probably lose to a few of them and beat some of the top twelve. I’m just enjoying this season, the football we’re playing and the fantastic team spirit Wellens seems to have engendered.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Panda Paws on Tuesday, December 17, 2019, 13:34:30
A astute observation... we do have this interesting record, of having won 12/12 of the teams currently in the lower half of the table and 1/12 ofthe teams in the top half.  Cambridge weren't top half at the time.... that's something that will need to be put right, starting Saturday.  

Nope, doesn't matter one jot. Repeat our results from the first half of the season and we win the league.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: normy on Tuesday, December 17, 2019, 13:44:39
I feel that the team spirit which Wellens has achieved so far is excellent, and they now play hard right to the end, as witnessed versus Oldham.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: pauld on Tuesday, December 17, 2019, 13:58:30
I’m just enjoying this season, the football we’re playing and the fantastic team spirit Wellens seems to have engendered.
Absolutely this. It's great to be looking forward to going to the match again after the past few seasons of awful dross, especially under Flitcroft.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: RobertT on Tuesday, December 17, 2019, 14:29:01
I will be back to watch the Scunthorpe game, I;d suggest not looking forward to that one based on last season's only game I attended in real life being the Exeter loss.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Peter Venkman on Tuesday, December 17, 2019, 14:30:02
Absolutely this. It's great to be looking forward to going to the match again after the past few seasons of awful dross, especially under Flitcroft.
Fuck yeah, I am enjoying matched again, the anticipation, the actual performances on the pitch, certainly for the first time really since the PdC era despite a couple of false dawns.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: singingiiiffy on Tuesday, December 17, 2019, 14:35:12
A astute observation... we do have this interesting record, of having won 12/12 of the teams currently in the lower half of the table and 1/12 ofthe teams in the top half.  Cambridge weren't top half at the time.... that's something that will need to be put right, starting Saturday.  

I'm certain that macclesfield were top 6 when we beat them near the start?


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Peter Venkman on Tuesday, December 17, 2019, 14:36:17
Looking back to 11 months ago, I feel he has addressed many of the issues I had at the time.

From what I have seen so far in his 11 games 4 wins 4 draws and 3 defeats I think he has shown promise, obviously the first defeat can almost be discounted as it happened 3 days after his appointment, So since he has been able to influence things 4 wins 4 draws and 2 defeats in the league ok TBF, not pulling tree stumps but steadying the ship.

On the pitch we are playing much better football than under Flipflop and Brown who both played more of the percentage game playing for and using set peices to score.

We play a decent passing and running game under Wellens which when it works is lovely to watch but the players are not all capable of playing that way. I think he has the players playing tactics that they are familiar with unlike under Brown which confused everyone and Flipflops.....hooooooffff.

He has chosen unwisely on substitutions at times but we are not able to see what happens in training which may explain his decisions which to the fan can look unusual at times.

We are still lacking a striker, yes he has brought in Ben House but I haven't seen him yet and he has only played a matter of 18 minutes in a Town shirt so he MAY be the striker we need...we will see. Richards has not hit any fitness or form yet but showed glimpses against Lincoln that he still has some ability at this level but not playing in the role that Wellens wants him to play.

Over all I think we are playing a far better more attractive style of play in 80% of games and it is entertaining but we just seriously lack goals.

7/10 has made mistakes has done some good but considering he was hated by many even before he managed a game for us, and he was nowhere near my top 10 applicants, I think hes done ok.
I still stand by my judgement, I felt we needed a decent and turns out we currently have 2 and that is making the difference IMO.

Wellens has improved on last season, after improving on Brown, to get the predicted 13th place finish.
Is this still your prediction from this post of just 5-6 weeks ago?


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Peter Venkman on Tuesday, December 17, 2019, 14:37:13
I'm certain that macclesfield were top 6 when we beat them near the start?
Macc were 9th when we played them.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: singingiiiffy on Tuesday, December 17, 2019, 14:40:18
Macc were 9th when we played them.

top half then! yes looking if they had beat us they would have been level points in the playoffs, I remember it being close on points for position


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: pauld on Tuesday, December 17, 2019, 14:40:37
I will be back to watch the Scunthorpe game, I;d suggest not looking forward to that one based on last season's only game I attended in real life being the Exeter loss.
We'll lock you in somewhere with 4D


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Reg Smeeton on Tuesday, December 17, 2019, 14:54:45
Is this still your prediction from this post of just 5-6 weeks ago?

Predicted 13th place was for last season....  so he improved on Brown last season to get that finish and as stated has improved on last season this season.

Incidentally although you say you're enjoying it for the first time since PdC, it's not what you said while jizzing over Brown.

Quote
I personally am enjoying games again after many years of not looking forward to watching us (probably since the last Wembley visit).

I have the buzz again (yes I should see a doctor I know!) which has been missing for a long time, I am quite enjoying the football under PB, he has made us harder to beat, we have competitive options in every position except for LB.

We are at times playing some great passing and running football as good as any we have seen in years, mixed with some long balls too to mix it up a bit.

We are getting a lot of late goals and never seem to give up, even a couple of goals down (except for Lincoln away who bullied us).

I am optimistic for a decent season even though it is still early, the signs are there of making genuine progress on the pitch


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Peter Venkman on Tuesday, December 17, 2019, 15:03:03
Predicted 13th place was for last season....  so he improved on Brown last season to get that finish and as stated has improved on last season this season.
Not from the post dated 5th November 2019 it wasn't.

And yes I started enjoyign football again under Brown for a while, that quickly went south though near the end of his tenure.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Reg Smeeton on Tuesday, December 17, 2019, 15:17:28
Not from the post dated 5th November 2019 it wasn't.

And yes I started enjoyign football again under Brown for a while, that quickly went south though near the end of his tenure.

Here's te 5th of Nov post....

Quote
Wellens has improved on last season, after improving on Brown, to get the predicted 13th place finish.

 He also this season got the needed results after a poor trot.... all good signs.

 However he will come up against 2 things which he pointed out last season as a problem.... namely key men on loan, and too many in the squad not contributing much.  It will be how the management team resolve this in Jan which will decide if we're going anywhere in 2020.

the clue is in to get the predicted 13th place finish.... past tense. In Jan this year in the shaping up thread, I predicted we'd finish 12th or 13th.

By mid Jan next year we should have a clearer idea and set of data to make a solid prediction, we should have resolved one way or another the loans, and hopefully mpoved some of the players not contributing, which might enable a bit of strengthening.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Peter Venkman on Tuesday, December 17, 2019, 15:35:56
top half then! yes looking if they had beat us they would have been level points in the playoffs, I remember it being close on points for position
Here is a list of matches this season with their position in the table at the time we played them.

A Scunthorpe W
H Carlisle W 10th
A Exeter D 2nd
H Northampton L 19th
A Cheltenham D 8th
H Morecambe W 20th
A Orient W 17th
H Macclesfield W 9th
H Colchester L 13th
A Cambridge W 11th
H Newport L 6th
A Bradford L 6th
H Plymouth D 11th
A Crewe L 1st
H Stevenage W 24th
A Crawley W 17th
H Walsall W 22nd
A Salford W 12th
H Mansfield W 15th
A Grimsby W 20th
H Oldham W 22nd

It shows 11 teams we played were in the top half of the table when we played them, resulting in 4 wins, 3 draws and 4 defeats.

In fixtures vs teams occupying places in the top 7 at the time we played them then its DLLL.

In fixtures vs teams currently in the top 7 places then its been DDLLL with 1 to play on Saturday.

Conversely, we have beaten every team that occupy each one of the bottom 12 positions in the table.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Oldwembley69 on Tuesday, December 17, 2019, 15:37:18
We seem to want Doyle, Yates and grant signed sooner rather than later

When does Wellens contract run out? Is it in the summer? Would have thought that Power should be thinking of signing him up on a better deal!! (In case Mansfield et al need another Manager)


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Bob's Orange on Tuesday, December 17, 2019, 16:15:59
We seem to want Doyle, Yates and grant signed sooner rather than later

When does Wellens contract run out? Is it in the summer? Would have thought that Power should be thinking of signing him up on a better deal!! (In case Mansfield et al need another Manager)

Mansfield have just appointed Graham Coughlan who has left Bristol Rovers, 4th in league 1 to join the stags (his family are from Sheffield which probably helps explain the move).

I would imagine Wellens may well be on the BRFC shopping list however?


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Peter Venkman on Tuesday, December 17, 2019, 16:18:32
I would imagine Wellens may well be on the BRFC shopping list however?
Not when Nathan Jones, Cotterill, Tisdale and Holloway are all unemployed and Power would want a fee for Wellens and Bristol Rovers are broke.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: theakston2k on Tuesday, December 17, 2019, 17:34:37
Mansfield have just appointed Graham Coughlan who has left Bristol Rovers, 4th in league 1 to join the stags (his family are from Sheffield which probably helps explain the move).

I would imagine Wellens may well be on the BRFC shopping list however?
No chance. They’ve got no money, their foreign owners have lost interest so have been cutting costs. Small miracle they are where they are in the league.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: singingiiiffy on Tuesday, December 17, 2019, 22:09:18
Here is a list of matches this season with their position in the table at the time we played them.

A Scunthorpe W
H Carlisle W 10th
A Exeter D 2nd
H Northampton L 19th
A Cheltenham D 8th
H Morecambe W 20th
A Orient W 17th
H Macclesfield W 9th
H Colchester L 13th
A Cambridge W 11th
H Newport L 6th
A Bradford L 6th
H Plymouth D 11th
A Crewe L 1st
H Stevenage W 24th
A Crawley W 17th
H Walsall W 22nd
A Salford W 12th
H Mansfield W 15th
A Grimsby W 20th
H Oldham W 22nd

It shows 11 teams we played were in the top half of the table when we played them, resulting in 4 wins, 3 draws and 4 defeats.

In fixtures vs teams occupying places in the top 7 at the time we played them then its DLLL.

In fixtures vs teams currently in the top 7 places then its been DDLLL with 1 to play on Saturday.

Conversely, we have beaten every team that occupy each one of the bottom 12 positions in the table.

Im definitely not afraid of playing the current top 6. its also important to note that after saturday we would have played them all away. our home form is decent. doyle or yates were missing from 3/4 of these teams (we can't say we will implode if we lose doyle as a replacement would be found) and the draws of exeter and chelt should have been wins with no complaints from any home fans.



Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: The Artist Formerly Known as Audrey on Saturday, December 28, 2019, 06:00:18
Wants to sign a new contract when his present one runs out in May.

Good lad!


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: The Artist Formerly Known as Audrey on Wednesday, January 8, 2020, 07:55:06
Good article here. That ‘Goals Scored from Open Play’ stat shows how difficult it would be for Doyle to score at Bradford.

https://www.skysports.com/football/news/11758/11902490/richie-wellens-interview-on-taking-swindon-top-by-playing-football


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Reg Smeeton on Wednesday, January 8, 2020, 14:24:37
 Wellens is having his mettle tested now... the policy of loans and players with dodgy fitness records used back in the summer always had the potential for problems.  It was fair enough insofar as it enabled a bit of extra quality to be brought in.

If he can work his way around the current problems and still get some results, then it will look very good on his CV.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Exiled Bob on Wednesday, January 8, 2020, 14:42:58
Wellens is having his mettle tested now... the policy of loans and players with dodgy fitness records used back in the summer always had the potential for problems.  It was fair enough insofar as it enabled a bit of extra quality to be brought in.

If he can work his way around the current problems and still get some results, then it will look very good on his CV.
We are still top of the league you know.....the dodgy fitness records haven't worked against him yet.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Peter Venkman on Wednesday, January 8, 2020, 14:50:11
We are still top of the league you know.....the dodgy fitness records haven't worked against him yet.
Absolutely.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Tails on Wednesday, January 8, 2020, 15:09:01
Most teams picked up injuries in the xmas period as well.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Reg Smeeton on Wednesday, January 8, 2020, 15:42:02
Most teams picked up injuries in the xmas period as well.

It's the attritional nature of Div 4.  It's why gaffers often fill up their sides with big strong lads who may not be the best footballers, but are durable.  Bradford City being an example. 

It's how you respond to these situations that decide how the season will pan out, although of course being Town, you can never assume things will be straightforward....  take 6 years ago in Feb, top of Div 3, when the wheels completely fall off.

Interestingly of the other 5 teams kicking around the top 6 then.... 2 have gone on to the Prem, and 2 went to the Conference.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: The Artist Formerly Known as Audrey on Wednesday, January 8, 2020, 15:43:11
Nothing to do with the PdC circus, then?


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Exiled Bob on Wednesday, January 8, 2020, 15:50:53
Nothing to do with the PdC circus, then?
Doesn't fit his narrative.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: BambooToTheFuture on Wednesday, January 8, 2020, 16:08:58


...of course being Town, you can never assume things will be straightforward....  take 6 years ago in Feb, top of Div 3, when the wheels completely fall off.

You're a twat at times Reg. Wheels fell off because Black had, had enough of the spending (even though we were on course for promotion) and PdC ended up leaving because transfers pending wouldn't be funded. Black pulled the plug, we were put under embargo and the rest is history.

I expected better from you as these are two massively different scenarios. We don't have group of benefactors worth c£350m for starters, we aren't spending beyond our means, and we have a manager that seems a little more emotionally stable.

Don't deflect.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Reg Smeeton on Wednesday, January 8, 2020, 16:39:47
You're a twat at times Reg. Wheels fell off because Black had, had enough of the spending (even though we were on course for promotion) and PdC ended up leaving because transfers pending wouldn't be funded. Black pulled the plug, we were put under embargo and the rest is history.

I expected better from you as these are two massively different scenarios. We don't have group of benefactors worth c£350m for starters, we aren't spending beyond our means, and we have a manager that seems a little more emotionally stable.

Don't deflect.

As often the case not sure what your point is.... mine is that Wellens will need to show his managerial mettle going forward because of the problems and if he continues to get results it will reflect well on him... however this being STFC things are rarely straightforward.    Another, more recent example of that, Flitcroft had us in the PO's had just won 5 on the spin at home and then bailed, which along with injuries to key defenders (attrition again) scuppered our chances


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: RobertT on Wednesday, January 8, 2020, 17:05:35
You brought up the season where the "wheels fell off" and was clearly using it as an example of how bad things can become.    I presume you were talking about the PDC departure and change in Board?  If so, we finished the play offs - so even a complete repeat would see us with a chance of promotion.  However, we all know it is very unlikely to repeat, so as a cautionary tale, it is not the most useful.

If this was last season, we'd need 27 points from 20 games to confirm promotion - even with a few injuries, and even if we didn't bother to replace Doyle, we are on course to achieve that.

What's Wellens total record in the league up to now?  Given where he started, I;d say he's earned the right to be trusted in this transfer window, and so far, his gamble is paying off.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: BambooToTheFuture on Wednesday, January 8, 2020, 17:07:19
Yes but you're using incomparable scenarios to measure up Wellens ability with.

Wellens doesn't appear to be leaving us mid-season and plays a better brand of football than Flitcroft. He also appears to be a much better manager than Flitcroft (I await a table of incomparable stats, since Wellens has managed less games than DF). The two aren't comparable. The manager leaving unexpectedly is huge disruption and is much bigger than a player leaving (if said manger is pretty good).

Wellens does have to prove his mettle through a sticky period, I agree. I see no signs of him jumping ship at the first sign of interest (see Doncaster rebuff) like DF and I see no signs of him throwing his toys out of his pram or a huge amount of investment withdrawn like the PdC scenario, because he wasn't being allowed carte blanche.

Pick a more comparable set of circumstances or manager if you're trying to find a stick to poke RW with. Those two aren't the ones. Unless you are Nostradamus incarnate and you're suggesting that you know the wheels have fallen off our season? It certainly doesn't look that way.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Reg Smeeton on Wednesday, January 8, 2020, 18:22:33
You brought up the season where the "wheels fell off"

Yes, as an example of how things are rarely straightforward.



Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: RobertT on Wednesday, January 8, 2020, 19:31:39
But it's a bad example was Bamboo's point.  An unlikely event to occur again.

Earlier in the season I quoted the same sort of feel as 95/96 in terms of how the team looked on the pitch vs. opposition.  I think some games still feel that way, but the defensive injuries have opened us up a bit more.

That season after 26 games we had 53 points with 15 wins under our belt.  Scored 44 and conceded 18.  We went on to win the league and finished 10 points clear in the Auto spots.  We were 7 points ahead of the Play Offs after we had played 26 games, but had played 2 more than the top team in the play off spots.

Momentum is tough to shake, it usually requires something pretty seismic, like losing your Manager and the funding for the club in one week.  A few injuries and even losing a player can be carried by teams with momentum.  That first 26 games has given us a head start, we can be mid table-esque from here and make it.  That's not a guarantee, just a probability.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: pauld on Wednesday, January 8, 2020, 21:24:40
But it's a bad example was Bamboo's point.  An unlikely event to occur again.
TBF this is the bloke who earlier in the season cited one anomalous season 40 years ago that needed 53 points to stay up as a caution against complacency this season. On which point I note we still need at least another 3 draws to secure our league status for another year #clingingOn


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Stef Troll on Wednesday, January 8, 2020, 21:42:36
Wellens has done a fantastic job so far. He has exceeded my expectations. Would be good to try and sign him on an extended contract but I think there will be plenty of underachieving clubs with bigger budgets who could tempt Wellens to join them. I guess it depends on Wellens ambition. Ultimately I think the best he could achieve with us is promotion to the championship with Swindon being a club like Rotherham or Barnsley who yo-yo between the championship and league 1. To achieve anything more the chairman would need to pump mega money into the club.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: BambooToTheFuture on Wednesday, January 8, 2020, 21:56:54
Fuck me, I actually agree with everything you just said StefTroll. It's nice to be seeing some decent football isn't it?  :)


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Exiled Bob on Wednesday, January 8, 2020, 22:11:35
Yes, as an example of how things are rarely straightforward.


But what's it got to do with Richie Wellens..so far, which is supposed to be what the thread is about? Not what could happen if the fucking wheels fall off.

Just for once admit that you were wrong about him and that the has done pretty well.....even if it is only so far.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: JBZ on Wednesday, January 8, 2020, 22:12:17
At the start of the season, I thought that an 8th place finish should be regarded as a success.  Consequently, I am delighted that STFC are exceeding my expectations. I think that 3rd will be the ultimate outcome.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: RobertT on Wednesday, January 8, 2020, 22:16:15
But what's it got to do with Richie Wellens..so far, which is supposed to be what the thread is about? Not what could happen if the fucking wheels fall off.

Just for once admit that you were wrong about him and that the has done pretty well.....even if it is only so far.

I'll even admit I was very downbeat on the prospect of him getting the job, done a fantastic job though, so far.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Flashheart on Wednesday, January 8, 2020, 22:26:07
Not just on the pitch either, he's really energised everything off the pitch as well.

Except for a few individuals, that is.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: pauld on Thursday, January 9, 2020, 10:07:34
Not just on the pitch either, he's really energised everything off the pitch as well.

Except for a few individuals, that is.
He's a (very good) manager not a miracle worker


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Peter Venkman on Thursday, January 9, 2020, 10:12:45
I'll even admit I was very downbeat on the prospect of him getting the job, done a fantastic job though, so far.
I agree, exactly the same for me too.

Not just on the pitch either, he's really energised everything off the pitch as well.

Except for a few individuals, that is.

He has made a good effort at galvanizing our fanbase for the first time in years, well done to him and his team.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Batch on Thursday, January 9, 2020, 10:16:18
as above


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Reg Smeeton on Thursday, January 9, 2020, 10:28:27
But what's it got to do with Richie Wellens..so far, which is supposed to be what the thread is about? Not what could happen if the fucking wheels fall off.

Just for once admit that you were wrong about him and that the has done pretty well.....even if it is only so far.

You seem like the sort who start an argument with themselves in an empty room, however let's try this, my contention is that the current situation Wellens will need to show his mettle as a manager if we are to continue getting results in the current difficult situation. Do you agree with that or disgree?

Further, I contend that a study of our history shows that matters STFC are rarely straightforward. Do you agree or disagree?


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: normy on Thursday, January 9, 2020, 10:39:46
He's done a fantastic job, particularly in replacing nearly the whole team with better players than we had before.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Legends-Lounge on Thursday, January 9, 2020, 11:07:26
He's done a fantastic job, particularly in replacing nearly the whole team with better players than we had before.

On a measly tight wad tax exiles second division budget to boot.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Flashheart on Thursday, January 9, 2020, 11:10:28
On a measly tight wad tax exiles second division budget to boot.

He's done a marvellous job working with an owner that wants to take us down. Power must be fuming that expectations are not being met.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Legends-Lounge on Thursday, January 9, 2020, 11:25:13
He's done a marvellous job working with an owner that wants to take us down. Power must be fuming that expectations are not being met.

🤣🤣


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Saxondale on Thursday, January 9, 2020, 11:51:21
He's done a marvellous job working with an owner that wants to take us down. Power must be fuming that expectations are not being met.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0ozdCLrTrtA


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Exiled Bob on Thursday, January 9, 2020, 13:49:34
You seem like the sort who start an argument with themselves in an empty room, however let's try this, my contention is that the current situation Wellens will need to show his mettle as a manager if we are to continue getting results in the current difficult situation. Do you agree with that or disgree?

Further, I contend that a study of our history shows that matters STFC are rarely straightforward. Do you agree or disagree?
Thought you were above personal attacks..... I agree with both. But, once again, what has any of that got to do with Richie Wellens.. SO FAR?


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: RobertT on Thursday, January 9, 2020, 13:51:15
The last tie he was faced with a "crisis", we went on a superb run of form.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Pax Romana on Thursday, January 9, 2020, 14:03:48
We're top and playing much better football than we have for several years.

One specific thing I like about Wellens is that his substitutions usually seem logical and with a purpose.



Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Reg Smeeton on Thursday, January 9, 2020, 14:11:40
Thought you were above personal attacks..... I agree with both. But, once again, what has any of that got to do with Richie Wellens.. SO FAR?

Not really a personal attack... more a case you seem to agree with what I'm saying and then saying I'm wrong about WEllens because he's done pretty well.

I think I've been generally supportive of Wellens, apart form questioning his 2 statements last season about being too reliant on loans and having squad players he can't use, and pointing out we seem to have the same this season.

OK, so far it hasn't affected matters, but earlier in the thread I did say by mid Jan we'd probably have a better of idea of how the rest of the season will shape up, as these issues resolve themselves one way or another. Not quite there yet.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Flashheart on Thursday, January 9, 2020, 14:13:14

One specific thing I like about Wellens is that his substitutions usually seem logical and with a purpose.


He doesn't always get the tactics right to begin with, but he does spot when there is a problem and sets about fixing it. How many managers have we had that just stand there seemingly oblivious as to why we aren't winning?


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: RobertT on Thursday, January 9, 2020, 14:55:42
Not really a personal attack... more a case you seem to agree with what I'm saying and then saying I'm wrong about WEllens because he's done pretty well.

I think I've been generally supportive of Wellens, apart form questioning his 2 statements last season about being too reliant on loans and having squad players he can't use, and pointing out we seem to have the same this season.

OK, so far it hasn't affected matters, but earlier in the thread I did say by mid Jan we'd probably have a better of idea of how the rest of the season will shape up, as these issues resolve themselves one way or another. Not quite there yet.

The one thing I have learned, and quite like, about Wellens, is that he rarely tells the whole truth.  He's an obvious graduate from the Fergie school.  He'll bend the truth with clever language to shape the discussion externally how it he wants it most of the time.  Like the Lyden injury.  He know it's all theatre, and if he can get even a small advantage by using the media, he'll do it.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Exiled Bob on Thursday, January 9, 2020, 17:02:44
Not really a personal attack... more a case you seem to agree with what I'm saying and then saying I'm wrong about WEllens because he's done pretty well.
Your logic is a bit flawed to say the least.....I said I agreed that it will be challenging, particularly now that Doyle has left. This has nothing to do with how he has performed so far though.

Although, considering he has coped more than admirably so far, I don't really have any concerns about how well he will cope with the rest of the season.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Peter Venkman on Thursday, January 9, 2020, 17:51:22
The one thing I have learned, and quite like, about Wellens, is that he rarely tells the whole truth.  He's an obvious graduate from the Fergie school.  He'll bend the truth with clever language to shape the discussion externally how it he wants it most of the time.  Like the Lyden injury.  He know it's all theatre, and if he can get even a small advantage by using the media, he'll do it.
You are spot on with Wellens.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Reg Smeeton on Wednesday, January 22, 2020, 14:42:17
 Things have just got a whole lot harder for Welllens, I feel sorry for the fella, has done a remarkable job with slim resources, but by so doing has pushed up the expectations of those who struggle with reality.

 Very difficult to see this ending in a good way....


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: RobertT on Wednesday, January 22, 2020, 14:50:10
Things have just got a whole lot harder for Welllens, I feel sorry for the fella, has done a remarkable job with slim resources, but by so doing has pushed up the expectations of those who struggle with reality.

 Very difficult to see this ending in a good way....

I think he is being presented with a challenge he knew could come to pass.  He took some positive gambles this season to get us the right quality:

a) Loan players beyond our current level of player
b) Permanent signings who had shown much greater promise than L2 but had either injury or personal problems in the past

The gamble with a) is always the risk of them being recalled
The gamble with b) is they could be the sort of player that just keeps getting injured or in trouble

He's used it to his advantage so far - the change in tactics for Crewe is a great example of how this gamble pays off.  The team is much more intelligent (football QI not literal) and can put tactical changes into action with less coaching needed.

The flip side is he knew the gamble has a downside, and that is how he earns his wages from us, managing both aspects.

The table doesn't change because we have some challenges, we keep the points in the bank.  Nobody is looking like running away with this league, so teams below us will all keep losing points.  It may be tougher in the remaining 18 games than it has been up until now (if things remain challenging on the squad side), but we still have a great chance thanks to the work he has put in so far.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Bogus Dave on Wednesday, January 22, 2020, 14:51:00
Things have just got a whole lot harder for Welllens, I feel sorry for the fella, has done a remarkable job with slim resources, but by so doing has pushed up the expectations of those who struggle with reality.

 Very difficult to see this ending in a good way....

I mean, it’s not very difficult is it?

Every striker Wellens/Jewell has bought to the club has scored 1-in-2 (or thereabouts).

The uncertainty isn’t great, and it *could* trigger something bad. But you’d be being deliberately negative to suggests it’s very difficult to see otherwise


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Nomoreheroes on Wednesday, January 22, 2020, 14:54:01
He also asserted that he can take other people's poorly performing players and improve them.

Maybe now that Bradford and Rotherham have saleable assets and we are top of the league, maybe other managers will be keen to give us their under-performing 'stars' to polish!


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: pauld on Wednesday, January 22, 2020, 15:02:13
Things have just got a whole lot harder for Welllens, I feel sorry for the fella, has done a remarkable job with slim resources, but by so doing has pushed up the expectations of those who struggle with reality.

 Very difficult to see this ending in a good way....
Couldn't resist could you? Put the kleenex away, long way to go in January, never mind the season, before you start gloating


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Flashheart on Wednesday, January 22, 2020, 15:08:39
It is VERY easy to see this ending in a good way.

That's not to say it will end up that way, nobody can be sure. But, at this point in time, it is still very easy to envisage it happening. Very easy indeed.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Shrivvy Road on Wednesday, January 22, 2020, 15:15:05
Couldn't resist could you? Put the kleenex away, long way to go in January, never mind the season, before you start gloating
Is reg wrong? It has got harder for Wellens and he has done a remarkable job on limited resources. I am not a doom monger at all but on what basis and what evidence is there to say under powers ownership that this will end in a good way?  I know it is fun to bash Reg at times but seriously what has he said there that is that wide of the mark ?


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Panda Paws on Wednesday, January 22, 2020, 15:16:30
Is reg wrong? It has got harder for Wellens and he has done a remarkable job on limited resources. I am not a doom monger at all but on what basis and what evidence is there to say under powers ownership that this will end in a good way?  I know it is fun to bash Reg at times but seriously what has he said there that is that wide of the mark ?

This bit, as Flashheart spells out, is complete and utter drivel.

"Very difficult to see this ending in a good way...."


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Flashheart on Wednesday, January 22, 2020, 15:17:40
Is reg wrong? It has got harder for Wellens and he has done a remarkable job on limited resources. I am not a doom monger at all but on what basis and what evidence is there to say under powers ownership that this will end in a good way?  I know it is fun to bash Reg at times but seriously what has he said there that is that wide of the mark ?

He is wrong to say that it's difficult to see it ending in a good way. It's not difficult at all.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Shrivvy Road on Wednesday, January 22, 2020, 15:18:48
This bit, as Flashheart spells out, is complete and utter drivel.

"Very difficult to see this ending in a good way...."
Like is aid though being a town fan what evidence is there it ends in a good way with the way it's gone over the last 5 years? It's hardly drivel for fucksake he has as much right to say it looks bad as anyone else who thinks it can easily be good


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Shrivvy Road on Wednesday, January 22, 2020, 15:22:59
Maybe i am in a foul mood but i see nothing positive at all in losing our top 2 goalscorers in January and from experience it has not ended well in the past when these things have happened in the past.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Flashheart on Wednesday, January 22, 2020, 15:24:05
Like is aid though being a town fan what evidence is there it ends in a good way

We're top of the league, for starters.
With a good team, albeit missing in a couple of positions.
And a recruitment team that has been nothing short of impressive so far.

So, quite easy to see how it could end up going well really.

The previous 5 years mean nowt. Wellens and Jewell were not here then, or should we judge them on the performance of Brown and Flitcroft etc?


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Flashheart on Wednesday, January 22, 2020, 15:25:13
Maybe i am in a foul mood but i see nothing positive at all in losing our top 2 goalscorers in January

I don't think anybody is, but it doesn't mean it has to be 100% negative either.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Shrivvy Road on Wednesday, January 22, 2020, 15:25:25
We're top of the league, for starters.
With a good team, albeit missing in a couple of positions.
And a recruitment team that has been nothing short of impressive so far.

So, quite easy to see how it could end up going well really.

The previous 5 years mean nowt. Wellens and Jewell were not here then, or should we judge them on the performance of Brown and Flitcroft etc?
You have totally missed my point though. It is also just as easy to see how it can go wrong isn't it


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Flashheart on Wednesday, January 22, 2020, 15:27:37
It is also just as easy to see how it can go wrong isn't it

I did not say otherwise. Of course it is easy to see how it can go wrong.

But is it really so difficult to see how it can go well?


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Bogus Dave on Wednesday, January 22, 2020, 15:28:01
You have totally missed my point though. It is also just as easy to see how it can go wrong isn't it

That’s not what Reg asserted though.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: pauld on Wednesday, January 22, 2020, 15:28:12
Is reg wrong?
No, of course it's not good to lose Yates and Doyle. But as I said there's a long way to go in this transfer window, much less this season before he starts gloating about it all going tits up. A lot can happen between now and Feb 1st


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: suttonred on Wednesday, January 22, 2020, 15:28:27
I'm normally laid back about everything. But, Wellens has royally fucked up here. To be a good manager you plan for the worst, and hope for the best. He's missed a crucial "worst" part out.

We'd better win Saturday, otherwise it could get sticky real fast.

Pinning hopes on Twine, who with all due respect couldn't hit my arse with a double bass.

Time for a lie down


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Peter Venkman on Wednesday, January 22, 2020, 15:31:15
I think there is every reason to see this ending well.

Since I have been watching Swindon in the early 70s Swindon Town have been top of the table after 28 games just once.

That was in 1995/6 when we were 3 points clear of Blackpool in 2nd place and that season we went on to win the Division 2 title.

Even in the Macari Championship winning season in 1985/6 we were sat in 2nd place after 28 games behind Chester who were 2 points ahead of us.

In the PdC title winning season we were sat in 4th place 1 point off the leaders Southend after 28 games.

Every reason therefore to be positive.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Shrivvy Road on Wednesday, January 22, 2020, 15:33:41
I did not say otherwise. Of course it is easy to see how it can go wrong.

But is it really so difficult to see how it can go well?
I know you didn't . I didn't reply to you though i responded to Paul.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Flashheart on Wednesday, January 22, 2020, 15:36:50
I haven't seen Paul saying that either mate.

I honestly think you should sleep on it and come back tomorrow or something. You're reading into things that people just are not saying.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Batch on Wednesday, January 22, 2020, 15:39:25
The pessimist in me sees this ending badly if we don't get one of them back.

We've waited for seasons for another good (20 goal a season)striker, and two popped up at once. The chances of lucking out again in the loan market seem very remote.

IF that's what happens.



Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Shrivvy Road on Wednesday, January 22, 2020, 15:42:29
What am i reading too much into? I simply asked was Reg wrong? What have you not seen Paul say?


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: pauld on Wednesday, January 22, 2020, 15:42:53
I haven't seen Paul saying that either mate.
That's because I didn't. I said it was too early to start the "I told you so" gloating on the assumption that it will all go tits up now that Doyle and Yates have gone back. It's a blow that they've been recalled but they can still be replaced (possibly by themselves in fact!) and we can go on to have a good season. If they're not, then I agree we're likely not to, and much of the promise of this season will have been wasted. But it's too early to leap with such obvious glee on the doomwagon


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Shrivvy Road on Wednesday, January 22, 2020, 15:44:33
That’s not what Reg asserted though.
I must have missed what he asserted then


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Flashheart on Wednesday, January 22, 2020, 15:44:59

We've waited for seasons for another good (20 goal a season)striker, and two popped up at once. The chances of lucking out again in the loan market seem very remote.


Unless what we're really doing is taking average strikers and turning them into goal machines.

I wonder how many Keshi would be on by now if he wasn't injured all the bloody time? He's not been all that great until now.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Flashheart on Wednesday, January 22, 2020, 15:47:58
I simply asked was Reg wrong?

And we answered - Yes.

And we explained why. But you don't seem to want to listen. Let me ask you something (again) - do you really think it's difficult to see how things can go well? (Which is what Reg asserted).


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Flashheart on Wednesday, January 22, 2020, 15:49:53
And just to be clear - THIS is what people are challenging

Quote
Very difficult to see this ending in a good way....


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Shrivvy Road on Wednesday, January 22, 2020, 15:56:06
And we answered - Yes.

And we explained why. But you don't seem to want to listen. Let me ask you something (again) - do you really think it's difficult to see how things can go well? (Which is what Reg asserted).
No, you answered yes. Paul actually said no Reg wasn't wrong it was his gloating he didn't like. Anyway you are right i will sleep on it


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: pauld on Wednesday, January 22, 2020, 16:04:40
No, you answered yes. Paul actually said no Reg wasn't wrong it was his gloating he didn't like. Anyway you are right i will sleep on it
tbf, I actually meant he wasn't wrong about things getting harder for Wellens in his first sentence
Things have just got a whole lot harder for Welllens, I feel sorry for the fella, has done a remarkable job with slim resources, but by so doing has pushed up the expectations of those who struggle with reality.
I'm minded to agree with FH and all the other contributors over the last few pages that the "very difficult" bit is a bit daft.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Flashheart on Wednesday, January 22, 2020, 16:08:14
Quote
but by so doing has pushed up the expectations of those who struggle with reality.

Lolz. I missed that bit at first.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: 4D on Wednesday, January 22, 2020, 16:09:14
 :suicide:


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: The Artist Formerly Known as Audrey on Wednesday, January 22, 2020, 16:10:09
And here’s me thinking reality is being top of the league.



Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: horlock07 on Wednesday, January 22, 2020, 16:13:12
Think everyone could do with going out for a walk, having a pint or whatever else relaxes you.

We have over a week to come back stronger....


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Bogus Dave on Wednesday, January 22, 2020, 16:17:46
I must have missed what he asserted then

The bit about it being very difficult to see this ending well.

I get the pessimism- it’s not good news. But we’re top of the league, with a management structure who’ve largely hit in the transfer market and an owner who, for all his faults, *has* acted in transfer windows when needed.

I tend to think a lot of the reaction to reg’s posts is over the top - and I would generally agree that recent years would breed a less rosy outlook. But to say it’s very difficult to see this ending well seems needlessly, dramatically pessimistic


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: pauld on Wednesday, January 22, 2020, 16:19:29
Think everyone could do with going out for a wank
FFS, misread this bit, now in custody charged with indecent exposure. Thanks horlock!


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Peter Venkman on Wednesday, January 22, 2020, 16:25:55
The bit about it being very difficult to see this ending well.

I get the pessimism- it’s not good news. But we’re top of the league, with a management structure who’ve largely hit in the transfer market and an owner who, for all his faults, *has* acted in transfer windows when needed.

I tend to think a lot of the reaction to reg’s posts is over the top - and I would generally agree that recent years would breed a less rosy outlook. But to say it’s very difficult to see this ending well seems needlessly, dramatically pessimistic
Spot on.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: BambooToTheFuture on Wednesday, January 22, 2020, 16:33:32
Fuck me!!!

So because a player has been recalled and there are still 9/10 transfer window days left to do some business, our season is basically over? Fuck off you bunch of melts.

There wasn't even this much 'crying into momma's tits' when Doyle was recalled!

Truth is, we (or nearly all of us) know nothing about any transfer comings and what the state of play will be come Feb 1st. We can bring up scenario after scenario and none of those may happen. However, I'm pretty calm and comments of 'very hard to see it ending in a good way...' is giving me the biggest laugh since Billy T James did his Somewhere Over the Rainbow sketch.

What we do know is this;

We are top of the League.
We could make Elliott Benyon look like Suarez.
We still create chance after chance.
Against Crewe (you know the game before Newport), we scored from Defence, Midfield and Attack.

At least wait 'til Feb 1st before throwing your wank rags in the air and surrendering. Until then, you may well be needing them. Cum sic, when the transfer window shuts to an orgasmic crescendo of relieved Town fans.

In the words of @marleystfc "Up. The. Fucking. Top. Of. The. League. Come. On. You. Fucking. Reds."


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: pauld on Wednesday, January 22, 2020, 16:48:18
Fuck me!!!

So because a player has been recalled and there are still 9/10 transfer window days left to do some business, our season is basically over? Fuck off you bunch of melts.
tbf, there's only one "melt" saying the season is basically over. The rest of the bunch are calling him out on it. Fuck off yourself ;)


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: BambooToTheFuture on Wednesday, January 22, 2020, 16:51:55
tbf, there's only one "melt" saying the season is basically over. The rest of the bunch are calling him out on it. Fuck off yourself ;)

Fuck you Davis! That's called good management and not singling out an individual. Even when everyone know who's been in the petty cash! Haha  :D


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: RobertT on Wednesday, January 22, 2020, 16:57:36
Can someone do a League Table for 1st Feb if everything goes wrong please?  We lose everything by healthy margins and everyone else gets the best they can (some play each other, so many variables are needed to be tested).

I can then judge how we might finish the season if we don't bother to sign anyone - although we did, so fuck, maybe we do a middle of the road scenario where we snatch a draw or something?

Anyone?


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: BambooToTheFuture on Wednesday, January 22, 2020, 17:06:10
I'll do one but I haven't got time right now.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: sir windon on Wednesday, January 22, 2020, 19:19:08
Promotion will be a hell of an achievement with these body blows. Am still hopeful. What odds in a Town v Bradford play off final?!!


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Legends-Lounge on Wednesday, January 22, 2020, 19:33:11
Promotion will be a hell of an achievement with these body blows. Am still hopeful. What odds in a Town v Bradford play off final?!!

None. We’re going up in autos.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: RobertT on Wednesday, January 22, 2020, 19:35:22
There may be enough teams around Bradford in better form than them as well.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Tails on Wednesday, January 22, 2020, 20:08:54
Can someone do a League Table for 1st Feb if everything goes wrong please?  We lose everything by healthy margins and everyone else gets the best they can (some play each other, so many variables are needed to be tested).

I can then judge how we might finish the season if we don't bother to sign anyone - although we did, so fuck, maybe we do a middle of the road scenario where we snatch a draw or something?

Anyone?

All hypothetical of course, and some teams play each other




Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Saxondale on Wednesday, January 22, 2020, 22:30:05
On Saturday Exeter and playing Colchester.  Could be interesting.

Thing is, at the end of the transfer window we will know the team we have.  The worst position we could be in is 4th if we lose both games and Exeter, Crewe and Plymouth all win both of their games.  Obviously games in hand will still be in hand.

So at this stage, i'd say, chill out.  Wait and see.  Screaming and shouting about things wont change anything.  (Obviously if we all did this then the debate on the forum would be a little dull).


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Costanza on Wednesday, January 22, 2020, 22:35:18
One of the things you have to admire about Wellens is that there have been plenty of obstacles this season and he's kept this team more than competitive.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: theakston2k on Wednesday, January 22, 2020, 22:51:39
One of the things you have to admire about Wellens is that there have been plenty of obstacles this season and he's kept this team more than competitive.
It's actually going to be interesting seeing a team without Yates and Doyle in a perverse way. So far anyone who has played as the focal point in this team has scored for fun so will be intriguing to see how much or if at all the system has been able to flatter both Doyle and Yates slightly. If another striker comes in and scores regularly it will be a big endorsement of Wellens style.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: adje on Wednesday, January 22, 2020, 23:20:02
If Reg had just added  "if we don't replace them" then all this could have been avoided


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Flashheart on Thursday, January 23, 2020, 07:13:50
It's actually going to be interesting seeing a team without Yates and Doyle in a perverse way. So far anyone who has played as the focal point in this team has scored for fun so will be intriguing to see how much or if at all the system has been able to flatter both Doyle and Yates slightly. If another striker comes in and scores regularly it will be a big endorsement of Wellens style.

I wonder if we've been flattering Doyle. I don't mean to take anything away from the ginger god, but it could be that any half-decent striker will do well here. Yates got 5 in 6 when he was playing in Doyle's position.


Title: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Batch on Thursday, January 23, 2020, 07:31:01
I dunno.

He's buried a pretty high percentage of his chances, and only missed a few.

if you stick Woolery up top for a few games do you think he's capable of filling in well enough to replace Yates goals (let alone Pele)?

I'm not confident.

I'm basing this on Woolery being an average div 4 striker - you may of course disagree.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: The Artist Formerly Known as Audrey on Thursday, January 23, 2020, 07:36:52
I guess we’ll find out in the next few games.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Flashheart on Thursday, January 23, 2020, 07:40:22
Woolery's not a half-decent striker.

He's decent at other things, but being a striker isn't one of them.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Peter Venkman on Thursday, January 23, 2020, 08:11:51
Woolery's not a half-decent striker.

He's decent at other things, but being a striker isn't one of them.
Unfortunately true, he can head, throw a decent throw in, run, dribble, has decent close control, he is fast can hit a cracking shot from outside the box but he can't yet cross or finish.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Berniman on Thursday, January 23, 2020, 09:23:08
Which is why I think he will play with no striker on Saturday, load up the 2nd line with attacking midfielders.  Hope, Doughty, Woolery, DJ and Isgrove.

I fully expect Twine to remain on the bench, until the second half at least.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Tails on Thursday, January 23, 2020, 09:32:59
Unfortunately true, he can head, throw a decent throw in, run, dribble, has decent close control, he is fast can hit a cracking shot from outside the box but he can't yet cross or finish.

Woolery is most effective as a sub. His pace is useful in the last 15 minutes.

if he plays a whole game he's knackered after an hour and his pace is his only real asset.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Peter Venkman on Thursday, January 23, 2020, 09:43:58
Woolery is most effective as a sub. His pace is useful in the last 15 minutes.

if he plays a whole game he's knackered after an hour and his pace is his only real asset.
He can be a great impact sub against tired slow defenders which are aplenty in this league, when we have enough bodies for the first team of course which could be a few weeks away yet.



Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Bob's Orange on Thursday, January 23, 2020, 09:45:51
He can be a great impact sub against tired slow defenders which are aplenty in this league, when we have enough bodies for the first team of course which could be a few weeks away yet.



He was a fantastic impact sub at Plymouth, if he had better decision making/composure we'd have ended up winning that game 3 or 4-1.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Peter Venkman on Thursday, January 23, 2020, 09:53:46
He was a fantastic impact sub at Plymouth, if he had better decision making/composure we'd have ended up winning that game 3 or 4-1.
Thats why hes plying his trade in L2 rather than the Championship. If he can improve that we will have a very good player on our hands.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: horlock07 on Thursday, January 23, 2020, 10:04:05
Thats why he splying his trade in L2 rather than the Championship. If he can improve that we will have a very good player on our hands.

How long do we give him though?


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Bob's Orange on Thursday, January 23, 2020, 10:06:33
How long do we give him though?

Tough one, he is only 25 so maybe still a couple of years before he 'peaks'.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Peter Venkman on Thursday, January 23, 2020, 10:09:54
Tough one, he is only 25 so maybe still a couple of years before he 'peaks'.
yeah it is a tough one, hes currently a half decent L2 player but he promises much more.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Panda Paws on Thursday, January 23, 2020, 10:11:04
Woolery is a very good wide forward at this level. Quick, direct, good in the air. He's very useful.

He's not a striker though.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: pauld on Thursday, January 23, 2020, 10:13:17
Woolery is a very good wide forward at this level. Quick, direct, good in the air. He's very useful.

He's not a striker though.
Yup, absolutely this. He's also improved greatly this season under Wellens, perhaps not to the extent that Anderson has but still noticeably better. If he can build on that and keep improving ... who knows?


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Reg Smeeton on Thursday, January 23, 2020, 10:15:21
How long do we give him though?

I don't think hoping players metamorphose into something they're not or ever will be, works.  Much better to focus on what they can do and try and work that into a team pattern.

Occasionally you get one who surprises, for us Alan Mac. Was thinking about him recently as chatting to a mate who the first STFC match we went together was Newport (a), AM made his debut at right back, and didn't stand out, he then played a few more there and a handful in midfield before Lou loaned him out to Torquay. It was about 2 seasons of nothing much when Ossie stuck him in v Oxford at the forward tip of the diamond and voila a million pound player.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: pauld on Thursday, January 23, 2020, 10:17:45
I don't think hoping players metamorphose into something they're not or ever will be, works.  Much better to focus on what they can do and try and work that into a team pattern.
Yes and no. I know what you mean, just hoping a player can suddenly develop attributes they've never had can be fool's gold and there's a lot to be said for focusing on what they have rather than what they lack. But players can and do develop and improve. Keshi Anderson being a case in point this season


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Tails on Thursday, January 23, 2020, 10:18:35
Yup, absolutely this. He's also improved greatly this season under Wellens, perhaps not to the extent that Anderson has but still noticeably better. If he can build on that and keep improving ... who knows?

he has improved but he's still one of the most frustrating players I've ever seen in a Swindon shirt. Some of them, you can just accept they're shit... Woolery you know he has something in his locker.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Peter Venkman on Thursday, January 23, 2020, 10:18:47
Yup, absolutely this. He's also improved greatly this season under Wellens, perhaps not to the extent that Anderson has but still noticeably better. If he can build on that and keep improving ... who knows?
He has improved a lot since the end of last season, his crossing is better as is his striking of shots, they are not to the right standard yet but he has improved, his heading and long throws are very much improved though, as you say behind Anderson he is the 2nd most improved player this season.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Reg Smeeton on Thursday, January 23, 2020, 10:25:56
Yes and no. I know what you mean, just hoping a player can suddenly develop attributes they've never had can be fool's gold and there's a lot to be said for focusing on what they have rather than what they lack. But players can and do develop and improve. Keshi Anderson being a case in point this season

This sort of stuff fascinates me... look at someone like Jordan Henderson, absolute key component at Liverpool, who it could be argued are currently the best team in the world.  So does that make him the best midfield player in the world  :hmmm:

With Keshi, one of his features in his early seasons was he tended to be fit to play... not so much this season, could that be because previously he was coasting but now working harder means picking up injuries?


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Panda Paws on Thursday, January 23, 2020, 10:30:58
This sort of stuff fascinates me... look at someone like Jordan Henderson, absolute key component at Liverpool, who it could be argued are currently the best team in the world.  So does that make him the best midfield player in the world  :hmmm

With Keshi, one of his features in his early seasons was he tended to be fit to play... not so much this season, could that be because previously he was coasting but now working harder means picking up injuries?

Jordan Henderson is one of the best players in the world in his position, yes.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Batch on Thursday, January 23, 2020, 10:39:38
I don't see that much improvement in Woolery.

But I don't have a problem with him bring in/around the team.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: theakston2k on Thursday, January 23, 2020, 10:41:06
yeah it is a tough one, hes currently a half decent L2 player but he promises much more.
And stats show he’s had a half decent season, I think he gets unfair criticism at times.

If you take his stats in isolation he has 7 assists which is the 5th best in the league, he’s also in the top 10 for number of key passes made. His defensive contribution seems to ignored almost always, we are a small team and his heading ability is invaluable when defending set pieces and I can remember him making a number of key headers in our own box.

I’d argue that other than for a short period he’s been more effective than Isgrove who seems to get a free ride at the moment.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Peter Venkman on Thursday, January 23, 2020, 10:41:41
I don't see that much improvement in Woolery.
For me the improvements are not in his general attacking game its in his new found ability to jump and head the ball and his throw ins.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Peter Venkman on Thursday, January 23, 2020, 10:43:14
I’d argue that other than for a short period he’s been more effective than Isgrove who seems to get a free ride at the moment.
I would agree with that.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Batch on Thursday, January 23, 2020, 10:48:24
Quote from: Peter Venkman
Quote
I don't see that much improvement in Woolery.
For me the improvements are not in his general attacking game its in his new found ability to jump and head the ball and his throw ins.

He is pretty handy in the air and defending set pieces.

didn't really take much notice of how he did on that last season, so you could be right.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Reg Smeeton on Thursday, January 23, 2020, 10:51:07
Jordan Henderson is one of the best players in the world in his position, yes.

And yet he never got nominated for the Ballon d'Or unlike a raft of other Liverpool players.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2019_Ballon_d%27Or


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: pauld on Thursday, January 23, 2020, 10:58:47
And yet he never got nominated for the Ballon d'Or unlike a raft of other Liverpool players.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2019_Ballon_d%27Or
And yet he's consistently been picked by successive managers who had other, more pundit friendly, choices available. Maybe the actual professionals who work with him know he's a better player than the pundits and journos like to think?


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: DarloSTFC84 on Thursday, January 23, 2020, 11:14:32
And yet he's consistently been picked by successive managers who had other, more pundit friendly, choices available. Maybe the actual professionals who work with him know he's a better player than the pundits and journos like to think?

Completely agree.. I think the other thing is he's known for doing the ugly work.. most of the players on that list do the Gucci, more fashionable jobs.. players like Henderson don't get enough respect for clearing up the shit.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Peter Venkman on Thursday, January 23, 2020, 11:37:30
Talking about Woolery, Some interesting stats as of this week in L2.

Most accurate key passes
34 - Danny Mayor
34 - Randell Williams
30 - David Worrall
30 - Charlie Kirk
28 - Nicky Law
28 - Harry Pickering
26 - Tommy Lowery
25 - Nathan Thomas
25 - Bez Lubala
23 - Kaiyne Woolery

Most crosses
157 - Nicky Adams
131 - David Worrall
122 - Ibou Touray
110 - Randell Williams
101 - David Amoo
96 - Reece Grego-Cox
88 - Chris Hussey
86 - Luke Hannant
85 - Jordan Maguire-Drew

Most assists
10 - Charlie Kirk
9 - Randell Williams
8 - Nicky Adams
7 - Nicky Law
7 - Kaiyne Woolery
7 - George Cooper
6 - David Worrall
6 - Joseph Mills
6 - Craig Conway
6 - Chris Hussey

Most successful tackles
91 - Jay Harris
87 - Josh Sheehan
81 - Mike Jones
77 - Jake Hessenthaler
76 - Ebou Adams
74 - Mohamad Sylla
72 - George Tanner
70 - Connor Wood
67 - Alex Gilliead
64 - Anthony Grant
63 - Perry Ng

Most aerial duels won
265 - James Hanson
242 - Jordan Tunnicliffe
241 - Rory McArdle
229 - Luke Waterfall
224 - Leon Legge
217 - Fiacre Kelleher
216 - Scott Wharton
210 - Nathan Smith
201 - Ben Richards-Everton

Highest shots on target %*
63%: Vadaine Oliver, Joe Ironside
59%: Lee Novak
58%: Daniel Powell
53%: Eoin Doyle
51%: Luke Norris
50%: Nicky Maynard



Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: NotHarryAgombar on Friday, January 24, 2020, 09:44:54
My view is that RW has done an excellent job so far.
If we ignore the 0-4 loss to Carlisle the day after he was appointed, on the basis that he had no time to shape and influence how we set up for that one, it was clear from his first game that he had a clear idea of how he wanted to set the team up and play. It took a bit of time as some of the players signed by Flitcroft and Brown didn’t suit this style and had to be moved on.
He has had two full transfer windows and in both of those the squad was stronger at the end of it. We haven’t finished this window, and Level of success achieved by Yates and Doyle make this one a bit more tricky, but McGlashan and Diagoraga have gone, and Caddis, Grant, REG and Hope have come in or become permanent signings, with a week to go.
We play attractive football (the neck strengthening exercises we had to do to watch Flitcroft’s farmyard football are no longer necessary), and are top of the league wit 53 points from 28 games. This despite losing 3 defenders to season ending injuries - Ballard, Conroy and Iandolo - plus a number of other long term casualties.
He has improved a number of players - Anderson, Woolery and Iandolo come to mind - plus got incredible performances from Doyle and Yates.
I also sense he is attempting to build a squad which can not only get us promoted, but compete in League 1.
Negative points - poor cup results, and the lack of additional revenue from a good run / TV exposure, which could be helpful.
We should also remember that the club has a budget, and that does restrict our ability to sign some players, but I for one would prefer that to going down the Bolton / Southend / Bury or Macclesfield route - we have endured that too often in the past. We need not only to win promotion but have enough money to get a competitive team in league 1 next season.  On that point, I saw Akinde suggested as an option on the transfer rumour thread. My view is that if he isn’t up to League 1 (and the fact that Lincoln want to move him on suggests this is so) we should avoid him). Based on the fact that some teams have recently tended to yo-yo between L2 and L1 suggests a difference in standard is needed.
I am happy that RW has us on track - keep the faith!


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Flashheart on Saturday, January 25, 2020, 18:46:57
He's fast becoming one of my favourite managers of all time. To lose your top 2 strikers and then win 3-0 is quite something. It puts an end to the negativity and has people looking at the top again.

I've a hunch that a bigger team will come in for him in the summer, but let's enjoy it while it lasts. If he keeps this up then he's got big things ahead of him.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: pauld on Saturday, January 25, 2020, 19:31:51
I've a hunch that a bigger team will come in for him in the summer, but let's enjoy it while it lasts. If he keeps this up then he's got big things ahead of him.
Think you're right, if he resists those siren calls to instead take on the challenge of pushing us up to the Championship, I will get his face tattooed on my arse*



* I fucking won't, obviously. But I will be dead chuffed.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: suttonred on Saturday, January 25, 2020, 22:34:47
All you have to bet is that you'll have your face tattoed on Audrey's arse. job done.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: normy on Sunday, January 26, 2020, 11:08:14
I think Wellens has done an excellent job, which was confirmed for me yesterday with the win against PV, despite several key players not available. There should hopefully soon be good competition for places, even if GP and Yates don't return, and Donahue is not signed.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: OOH! SHAUN TAYLOR on Sunday, January 26, 2020, 13:06:30
I think Wellens has done an excellent job, which was confirmed for me yesterday with the win against PV, despite several key players not available. There should hopefully soon be good competition for places, even if GP and Yates don't return, and Donahue is not signed.
3 signature wins for me this month which tell me Wellens has what it takes and that we are going up...

Plymouth (A)
Crewe (H)
Port Vale (H)

Keep knocking us down mother fuckers and we'll just bounce back again...


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: pauld on Sunday, January 26, 2020, 19:30:56
3 signature wins for me this month which tell me Wellens has what it takes and that we are going up...

Plymouth (A)
Crewe (H)
Port Vale (H)

Keep knocking us down mother fuckers and we'll just bounce back again...

Or to quote another manager of recent vintage "You can take all our strikers and we will weeen thees league anyway"


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: The Artist Formerly Known as Audrey on Sunday, January 26, 2020, 19:35:27
I get the feeling Wellens wants to feel the club are willing to match his ambitions. Especially re our own training facility.

Quite rightly, he sees it as an essential for continued success.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: pauld on Saturday, February 1, 2020, 20:24:54
So, after probably our best January window certainly that I can remember, although doubtless there was one back in 1789* that was better, and it now apparently not being difficult to see things ending in a good way, can we now agree that Wellens (and Jewell) is actually a fucking genius?



* Yes I know it was only introduced in the early 2000s


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: kirky69 on Saturday, February 1, 2020, 20:34:25
So, after probably our best January window certainly that I can remember, although doubtless there was one back in 1789* that was better, and it now apparently not being difficult to see things ending in a good way, can we now agree that Wellens (and Jewell) is actually a fucking genius?



* Yes I know it was only introduced in the early 2000s

Well in my nearly 50 years of supporting the Town, he is certainly up there with Macari and Di Canio for connecting with the fans and Hoddle and Ardilles for attractive football, albeit at a much lower level. If we can keep him for 3 years, then I believe we can get back to the Championship and Wellens can get a plum job in the Premiership. Very impressed so far and long may it continue.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Super Hans on Saturday, February 1, 2020, 22:41:19
Not been this hyped about the club since Di Canio. Went round mum and dads for a curry after the game and just drove home singing Swindon songs to the annoyance of the missus. Not done that since Sheff U.

Absolutely loving it. The crowd there today tells you everything about Richie Wellens...so far.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: theakston2k on Saturday, February 1, 2020, 22:45:13
It’s an interesting one and he’s done a top job but the pressure is actually on him now. He’s been given everything that he wanted in this window so no excuses now, but I think he’ll be good with that pressure as well.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Super Hans on Saturday, February 1, 2020, 22:57:13
It’s an interesting one and he’s done a top job but the pressure is actually on him now. He’s been given everything that he wanted in this window so no excuses now, but I think he’ll be good with that pressure as well.

Everything is there for him to get us up now. I think this squad would do well in League 1. Wellens doesn't strike me as a complacent type of gaffer. Options to switch players all over the pitch if they're falling short of standards.

Will stick my neck out and say we'll get better between now and the end of the season and win the league by 8-12 points.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: dogs on Sunday, February 2, 2020, 00:33:57
One of the most satisfying elements is that we've got a manager who is not only very competent in his role but he's level headed and is constantly learning but also actively willing to and utilising it with his team.

I'd hedge a bet that he'll manage in the top division one day. For such a young manager, he's as tactically astute as a seasoned boss. We're lucky to have him, albeit the club has given him that chance to demonstrate what he has when he could have easily drifted into backroom coaching after his Oldham stint.

He seems a loyal bloke, hopefully, if we get promoted he gives it another year at least, as not only has he built a talented squad, who clearly play for him and each other, he'll also be given the chance by the powers that be, which he'd be lucky to get elsewhere.



Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Legends-Lounge on Sunday, February 2, 2020, 08:53:45
Seeing as RW was next choice behind Phil Brown it does make me wonder where we would be now had he been given the nod and what Power must be thinking.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Swindon Please Win on Sunday, February 2, 2020, 10:10:12
Definitely such a good feel factor around right now which Wellens has to take full credit for, would be very happy if we sorted a new contract out for him sooner rather than later.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Nomoreheroes on Sunday, February 2, 2020, 10:24:02
Not been this hyped about the club since Di Canio. Went round mum and dads for a curry after the game and just drove home singing Swindon songs to the annoyance of the missus. Not done that since Sheff U.

Absolutely loving it. The crowd there today tells you everything about Richie Wellens...so far.
I initially read that as 'since PDC went round mum and dad's for a curry'.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: reeves4england on Sunday, February 2, 2020, 20:38:16
Paolo loves a bhuna


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Super Hans on Sunday, February 2, 2020, 20:48:07
I initially read that as 'since PDC went round mum and dad's for a curry'.

Haha. What a dinner guest he'd be.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Frigby Daser on Monday, February 3, 2020, 08:15:41
He will inevitably have offers, and may have offers that are closer to home for him. All we can do is try to match his obvious ambition, by going for it next year too, if we go up. Unless we do, he can justifiably say thanks and move on. He talks of the “project”. We have to show him there is one!


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: tans on Monday, February 3, 2020, 09:02:52
Fans phone in tomorrow, 6pm


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: The Artist Formerly Known as Audrey on Monday, February 3, 2020, 09:07:31
Why have we signed so many good players?

What’s Power up to?


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: OOH! SHAUN TAYLOR on Monday, February 3, 2020, 09:18:32
Lots of catering related questions I hope 😆


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: horlock07 on Monday, February 3, 2020, 09:30:08
What I like about RW is that he obviously has an eye for a player and has had so for a long time, when you consider the number of fairly unknowns that have rolled up here and done brilliantly when it transpired they had contact with Wellens years back.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: The Artist Formerly Known as Audrey on Monday, February 3, 2020, 09:53:03
Pinched from Twitter


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: pauld on Monday, February 3, 2020, 10:10:21
Looking forward to Reg ringing in and explaining to RW how his model of getting in loans and players with history of injuries on the cheap won't work.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: OOH! SHAUN TAYLOR on Monday, February 3, 2020, 10:12:35
Looking forward to Reg ringing in and explaining to RW how his model of getting in loans and players with history of injuries on the cheap won't work.
:nod:


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: ferret on Monday, February 3, 2020, 10:12:40
Is Brian from Larkhall still going? I haven't listened to one for years.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: OOH! SHAUN TAYLOR on Monday, February 3, 2020, 10:14:30
What I like about RW is that he obviously has an eye for a player and has had so for a long time, when you consider the number of fairly unknowns that have rolled up here and done brilliantly when it transpired they had contact with Wellens years back.
Reminds me of Macari in that respect...


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Reg Smeeton on Monday, February 3, 2020, 10:33:45
Looking forward to Reg ringing in and explaining to RW how his model of getting in loans and players with history of injuries on the cheap won't work.

Why would I do that when what I said was, it had the potential for problems and would test Wellens' mettle as a manager.

Quote
Wellens is having his mettle tested now... the policy of loans and players with dodgy fitness records used back in the summer always had the potential for problems.  It was fair enough insofar as it enabled a bit of extra quality to be brought in.

If he can work his way around the current problems and still get some results, then it will look very good on his CV.

I think events showed that there were problems... and that having navigated a path through so far, it does reflect well on him, which has no doubt not gone unnoticed at other clubs.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Nijholts Nuts on Monday, February 3, 2020, 11:05:11
I hope someone asks about when he's going to sign a contract extension.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: swindonmaniac on Monday, February 3, 2020, 14:03:09
Lots of catering related questions I hope 😆
No need,   much better facilities just outside the ground,  as long as people patronise the facilities inside the ground the longer they will continue to serve up the overpriced cold crap they do.   Vote with your feet if you're not happy.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Bob's Orange on Monday, February 3, 2020, 14:09:23
Talking of food and drink facilities. The Fish and Chip shop at the end of Drove Road as you get to the Magic Roundabout was closed on Saturday, with a sign saying 'Closed as the machine is broke'. They will be kicking themselves as they would have made a killing on Saturday!


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Red Frog on Monday, February 3, 2020, 14:12:15
Talking of food and drink facilities. The Fish and Chip shop at the end of Drove Road as you get to the Magic Roundabout was closed on Saturday, with a sign saying 'Closed as the machine is broke'. They will be kicking themselves as they would have made a killing on Saturday!

They'll be kicking themselves more for having left the last letter off their sign.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: jayohaitchenn on Monday, February 3, 2020, 14:12:27
Talking of food and drink facilities. The Fish and Chip shop at the end of Drove Road as you get to the Magic Roundabout was closed on Saturday, with a sign saying 'Closed as the machine is broke'. They will be kicking themselves as they would have made a killing on Saturday!

Bit of an understatement!

https://www.swindonadvertiser.co.uk/news/18204185.fire-crews-magic-roundabout-chip-shop/


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Bob's Orange on Monday, February 3, 2020, 14:13:39
Bit of an understatement!

https://www.swindonadvertiser.co.uk/news/18204185.fire-crews-magic-roundabout-chip-shop/

Jesus, I didn't realise that! Luckily it wasn't worse then and nobody was injured!


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Bob's Orange on Monday, February 3, 2020, 14:14:17
They'll be kicking themselves more for having left the last letter off their sign.

I think I may have corrected other parts of the sign but broken was spelled that way!


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: swindonmaniac on Monday, February 3, 2020, 14:15:33
Talking of food and drink facilities. The Fish and Chip shop at the end of Drove Road as you get to the Magic Roundabout was closed on Saturday, with a sign saying 'Closed as the machine is broke'. They will be kicking themselves as they would have made a killing on Saturday!
Apparently the fryer caught fire earlier,   bet that cost them a few quid,   probably would have been queuing past the Merlin !!!!.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: swindonmaniac on Monday, February 3, 2020, 14:17:19
I think I may have corrected other parts of the sign but broken was spelled that way!
Think a 5 year old must have written the notice,  was rather amateurish.  Blue Crayon as well !!!!.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Bob's Orange on Monday, February 3, 2020, 14:30:26
Think a 5 year old must have written the notice,  was rather amateurish.  Blue Crayon as well !!!!.

haha, glad it wasn't just me that noticed!!


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Legends-Lounge on Monday, February 3, 2020, 14:41:53
Reminds me of Macari in that respect...

Ditto.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Legends-Lounge on Monday, February 3, 2020, 14:50:57
We hang on to RW and this time next year we’ll be talking about our run in to the EOS and promo to the championship. Once the ownership of SN1 and the training facility are sorted it will be all systems go. I have said this before things are slowly falling into place we’re on the ascendancy the off field jigsaw is nearly there the on-field jigsaw too. Marry them up and we will be going places like Birmingham Slave traders, Middlesbrough, Wednesday etc, not Morecambe, Macclesfield, Colchester. The future is bright and it isn’t orange....


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: pauld on Monday, February 3, 2020, 15:10:01
We hang on to RW and this time next year we’ll be talking about our run in to the EOS and promo to the championship. Once the ownership of SN1 and the training facility are sorted it will be all systems go. I have said this before things are slowly falling into place we’re on the ascendancy the off field jigsaw is nearly there the on-field jigsaw too. Marry them up and we will be going places like Birmingham Slave traders, Middlesbrough, Wednesday etc, not Morecambe, Macclesfield, Colchester. The future is bright and it isn’t orange....
Think back-to-back might be a bit much but I've been saying much the same for a few weeks now, can see Wellens taking us up from League 1 (or having a bloody good tilt at it) within 3 seasons (this being the 1st). But we need to keep hold of him and back him, think he's clearly signalled in recent weeks he wants to see the club matching his ambition. Which the club very much have this January, let's hope it's more of the same on the back of a successful promotion campaign in the summer


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Legends-Lounge on Monday, February 3, 2020, 15:14:49
Think back-to-back might be a bit much but I've been saying much the same for a few weeks now, can see Wellens taking us up from League 1 (or having a bloody good tilt at it) within 3 seasons (this being the 1st). But we need to keep hold of him and back him, think he's clearly signalled in recent weeks he wants to see the club matching his ambition. Which the club very much have this January, let's hope it's more of the same on the back of a successful promotion campaign in the summer

Been done before and lightening does strike in the same place twice 😉


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Legends-Lounge on Monday, February 3, 2020, 15:15:38
Think back-to-back might be a bit much but I've been saying much the same for a few weeks now, can see Wellens taking us up from League 1 (or having a bloody good tilt at it) within 3 seasons (this being the 1st). But we need to keep hold of him and back him, think he's clearly signalled in recent weeks he wants to see the club matching his ambition. Which the club very much have this January, let's hope it's more of the same on the back of a successful promotion campaign in the summer

We do agree on some things then.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: pauld on Monday, February 3, 2020, 15:22:22
We do agree on some things then.
Had to happen eventually :)


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: horlock07 on Monday, February 3, 2020, 16:28:17
We do agree on some things then.

A wrong clock is right twice a day isn't it  ;)


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: pauld on Monday, February 3, 2020, 16:42:03
A wrong clock is right twice a day isn't it  ;)
I'd regard that as an enviable record tbh :)


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Legends-Lounge on Monday, February 3, 2020, 19:56:58
A wrong clock is right twice a day isn't it  ;)

No, a wrong clock is right all day and night. A broken clock however isn’t.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: pauld on Monday, February 3, 2020, 19:58:09
No, a wrong clock is right all day and night.
Surely it's wrong all day and night, but just thinks it's right?


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: wheretherealredsare on Monday, February 3, 2020, 20:04:52
PLease don't derail this thread or you'll get a ticking off!


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: swindonmaniac on Monday, February 3, 2020, 21:38:25
A wrong clock is right twice a day isn't it  ;)
A Broken clock is right twice a day,   A wrong clock is just wrong !!.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Legends-Lounge on Monday, February 3, 2020, 21:42:29
To much time on people’s hands 😁


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: swindonmaniac on Monday, February 3, 2020, 21:51:06
Not really,  it's just a wind up.   :D :D


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Power to people on Tuesday, February 4, 2020, 16:30:39
Think back-to-back might be a bit much but I've been saying much the same for a few weeks now, can see Wellens taking us up from League 1 (or having a bloody good tilt at it) within 3 seasons (this being the 1st). But we need to keep hold of him and back him, think he's clearly signalled in recent weeks he wants to see the club matching his ambition. Which the club very much have this January, let's hope it's more of the same on the back of a successful promotion campaign in the summer

I've been saying much the same recent weeks, but my worry is hanging onto him if a championship club comes calling within the next year, while if we do get said training ground and stadium ownership it is not going to be quick and, we also have to remember his family are still living up north I believe so he may want to join them if a northern championship team comes calling.

I think at some point though if we we are doing well next season other teams will start to look at our players and at that point that will signal the ambition, if we sell at first offer or hang on for bigger offers and a chunk of the fee given to Wellens to invest in the squad.

 


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Reg Smeeton on Tuesday, February 4, 2020, 16:40:27
I've been saying much the same recent weeks, but my worry is hanging onto him if a championship club comes calling within the next year, while if we do get said training ground and stadium ownership it is not going to be quick and, we also have to remember his family are still living up north I believe so he may want to join them if a northern championship team comes calling.

I think at some point though if we we are doing well next season other teams will start to look at our players and at that point that will signal the ambition, if we sell at first offer or hang on for bigger offers and a chunk of the fee given to Wellens to invest in the squad.

Out of interest who do you think of the current squad might be a saleable asset?  I see quite a few veterans and quite a few loans, nowt wrong with that because the aim changed from player develoment to trying to win a few games when we got relegated.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: RobertT on Tuesday, February 4, 2020, 16:55:53
Out of the current squad, if we get promoted and contract status is maintained, then the following could grab a fee (the assumption here is critical - continued success, hence increasing the relative value of each player).

Doughty
Isgrove
Fryers
Hope
Woolery
Anderson

To reiterate, they'd have to be part of a collective team on the up to get any real value but they are all young enough for a season and a bit of progress to have some value.  It doesn't take much to get a player worth some money, so a year or two is usually enough due to the escalating value that occurs in football up the chain.

Not sure Hunt, as a full back, would be in the same bracket, and you'd think anyone in their 30's would be pushing it.

In reality, none of them would bring big money, aside maybe from Anderson having some potential if he was firing for most of early part of next season.  If Doughty had continued his goal scoring form this season and then maintained it next, he'd be valuable.  The fact he has so few this season probably dampens that prospect.

What we don't have, that you are probably alluding to, is an in contract young striker in form on our books.  That's where the money is down here - Anderson and Doughty at their absolute best (assuming they reach full potential) are still not going for 7 figures in the bottom two leagues.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: pauld on Wednesday, February 5, 2020, 10:03:00
Listening back to last night's phone in this morning, while Wellens refused (rightly) to start talking about contract extensions etc, he talked about the club being capable of going on to a League 1 playoff berth (next season?) and thence the Championship. Given it was in the same section, strong implication he'd like to be the man to do that.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Tails on Wednesday, February 5, 2020, 10:21:36
I think he wants to stay here, it just depends what we offer him. I always get a sense he knows he's turned the club around a bit on and off the pitch and he loves it. Also, his mum said on Twitter he loves it here and if that isn't confirmation I don't know what is.

It'd be nice to have a decent manager stay a few years for a change.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Abrahammer on Wednesday, February 5, 2020, 10:27:06
Listening back to last night's phone in this morning, while Wellens refused (rightly) to start talking about contract extensions etc, he talked about the club being capable of going on to a League 1 playoff berth (next season?) and thence the Championship. Given it was in the same section, strong implication he'd like to be the man to do that.

I couldn’t care less about that.

More importantly did anybody ask him about the algebra lessons issue?


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: The Artist Formerly Known as Audrey on Wednesday, February 5, 2020, 10:33:59
I was thinking about the fantastic attendance on Saturday and I still can’t really put my finger on why it was so huge.

We had similar games against promotion rivals recently - Crewe, Bradford (were at the time) - and there were circa 7000 home fans.

Surely, it can’t have been just about the Doyle hoo-ha. Adding 4000 fans is virtually unprecedented for a league game (for us) that wasn’t an actual promotion or championship decider.

I still find it kinda weird.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Batch on Wednesday, February 5, 2020, 10:39:09
Ditto. Obviously payday passing has helped for some-but even so...



Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: horlock07 on Wednesday, February 5, 2020, 10:40:52
I think he wants to stay here, it just depends what we offer him. I always get a sense he knows he's turned the club around a bit on and off the pitch and he loves it. Also, his mum said on Twitter he loves it here and if that isn't confirmation I don't know what is.

It'd be nice to have a decent manager stay a few years for a change.


God, are we stalking Wellens mum on Twitter now!


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Reg Smeeton on Wednesday, February 5, 2020, 10:41:31
I think he wants to stay here, it just depends what we offer him. I always get a sense he knows he's turned the club around a bit on and off the pitch and he loves it. Also, his mum said on Twitter he loves it here and if that isn't confirmation I don't know what is.

It'd be nice to have a decent manager stay a few years for a change.


In the modern game managerial appointments are mostly short term.... OK you can get an occasional longer lasting one, but very much the exception.  Look at someone like Gary Monk about the same age as Welllens on his 5th club. I think Wellens is contracted for next season, but that won't mean squat if it turns to shit.

Colin Calderwood, got a nice contract extension in the autumn as Cambridge had a decent start after he kept them up last year... gone before the end of winter.

The possible improvements in training and stadium are probably too far away, for modern short termism.  Let's imagine that there were concrete plans for definite stadium development and Highworth on tap for the end of 20/21, but there isn't.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Batch on Wednesday, February 5, 2020, 10:42:39
" I think Wellens is contracted for next season, but that won't mean squat if it turns to shit."

I think he said until this summer on the phone in.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: horlock07 on Wednesday, February 5, 2020, 10:46:58
In the modern game managerial appointments are mostly short term.... OK you can get an occasional longer lasting one, but very much the exception.  Look at someone like Gary Monk about the same age as Welllens on his 5th club. I think Wellens is contracted for next season, but that won't mean squat if it turns to shit.

Colin Calderwood, got a nice contract extension in the autumn as Cambridge had a decent start after he kept them up last year... gone before the end of winter.

The possible improvements in training and stadium are probably too far away, for modern short termism.  Let's imagine that there were concrete plans for definite stadium development and Highworth on tap for the end of 20/21, but there isn't.

What a cheerful and positive post......


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Reg Smeeton on Wednesday, February 5, 2020, 10:47:22
" I think Wellens is contracted for next season, but that won't mean squat if it turns to shit."

I think he said until this summer on the phone in.

Not so good then.... I'd imagine his agent will advise keeping options open.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Reg Smeeton on Wednesday, February 5, 2020, 10:59:14
What a cheerful and positive post......

I'm uncertain as to why you choose to post such stuff rather than engage in what could be interesting debate.  Wellens is already the 36th longest serving mnanager in the 92, at a year and couple of months in the job.  In Div 4 there are 3 at just over 3 years... McGreal, Cooper and Artell.



Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: pauld on Wednesday, February 5, 2020, 11:01:12
I was thinking about the fantastic attendance on Saturday and I still can’t really put my finger on why it was so huge.

We had similar games against promotion rivals recently - Crewe, Bradford (were at the time) - and there were circa 7000 home fans.

Surely, it can’t have been just about the Doyle hoo-ha. Adding 4000 fans is virtually unprecedented for a league game (for us) that wasn’t an actual promotion or championship decider.

I still find it kinda weird.
Combination of lots of "feelgood" factors, obviously Doyle and Yates being prominent among that, some excitement about the team for the first time in a long while and don't underestimate the very good job the club did of capitalising on that to amplify the excitement around this particular game. Made a lot of people want to come and see what the excitement was all about. Club have played a blinder with this IMO


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Reg Smeeton on Wednesday, February 5, 2020, 11:02:56
I was thinking about the fantastic attendance on Saturday and I still can’t really put my finger on why it was so huge.

We had similar games against promotion rivals recently - Crewe, Bradford (were at the time) - and there were circa 7000 home fans.

Surely, it can’t have been just about the Doyle hoo-ha. Adding 4000 fans is virtually unprecedented for a league game (for us) that wasn’t an actual promotion or championship decider.

I still find it kinda weird.

There were quite a lot of old skool types who came out of the woodwork, perhaps on the back of the Brexit thing. Certainly never seen any trouble v Exeter before.   Most likely a combination of factors.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: pauld on Wednesday, February 5, 2020, 11:04:08
There were quite a lot of old skool types who came out of the woodwork, perhaps on the back of the Brexit thing.
WTF? Is there any excuse you won't use to avoid giving the club credit for doing a good job of getting fans back in?


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Tails on Wednesday, February 5, 2020, 11:05:15
I was thinking about the fantastic attendance on Saturday and I still can’t really put my finger on why it was so huge.

We had similar games against promotion rivals recently - Crewe, Bradford (were at the time) - and there were circa 7000 home fans.

Surely, it can’t have been just about the Doyle hoo-ha. Adding 4000 fans is virtually unprecedented for a league game (for us) that wasn’t an actual promotion or championship decider.

I still find it kinda weird.

I think the excitement swept accross social media constantly (fueled by the club) and it just encouraged more and more people. It became a "must not miss" game because EVERYONE was getting a ticket.

Scunny will be 7-8k


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Reg Smeeton on Wednesday, February 5, 2020, 11:06:30
WTF? Is there any excuse you won't use to avoid giving the club credit for doing a good job of getting fans back in?

Is there any reason why you always have a personal dig rather than engaing in debate.... out of interest why do you think there was some old skool trouble on Sat  :hmmm:


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: The Artist Formerly Known as Audrey on Wednesday, February 5, 2020, 11:11:38
There were quite a lot of old skool types who came out of the woodwork, perhaps on the back of the Brexit thing. Certainly never seen any trouble v Exeter before.   Most likely a combination of factors.
The answer is the same as it’s always been. Increased away support and booze. Brexit has fuck all to do with it - how could it?


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: pauld on Wednesday, February 5, 2020, 11:13:47
Is there any reason why you always have a personal dig rather than engaing in debate.... out of interest why do you think there was some old skool trouble on Sat  :hmmm:
Not a personal dig at all. Faced with two possible propositions for why the crowd has suddenly leapt from 7-8k to 13k, you dismiss the idea that the club might have done a really good job of capitalising on the excitement around a team doing well, good transfer window etc with a really good markering push, esp on social media as Tails observed. Instead you posited possibly the most bizarre example of "blame everything on Brexit" I've seen to date. It's not a dig, it's an observation - you seem to go out of your way to deny any possibility that the club may just be doing a good job of engaging with fans. It's just bizarre


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Reg Smeeton on Wednesday, February 5, 2020, 11:16:26
The answer is the same as it’s always been. Increased away support and booze. Brexit has fuck all to do with it - how could it?

Friday night there were some muted Brexit celebrations in Swindon, a Brexit voting town.... Brexit is seen by right wingers as a victory, there has long been a tradition of the right trying to use football as a recruiting ground....


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: The Artist Formerly Known as Audrey on Wednesday, February 5, 2020, 11:19:22
Friday night there were some muted Brexit celebrations in Swindon, a Brexit voting town.... Brexit is seen by right wingers as a victory, there has long been a tradition of the right trying to use football as a recruiting ground....
So why was there still trouble at football before Brexit? Apart from, perhaps, yourself I doubt any fans attending on Saturday had Brexit at the forefront of their minds.

When, if ever, have Exeter ever brought 2000 fans to the CG?


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Reg Smeeton on Wednesday, February 5, 2020, 11:21:03
Not a personal dig at all. Faced with two possible propositions for why the crowd has suddenly leapt from 7-8k to 13k, you dismiss the idea that the club might have done a really good job of capitalising on the excitement around a team doing well, good transfer window etc with a really good markering push, esp on social media as Tails observed. Instead you posited possibly the most bizarre example of "blame everything on Brexit" I've seen to date. It's not a dig, it's an observation - you seem to go out of your way to deny any possibility that the club may just be doing a good job of engaging with fans. It's just bizarre

Bull shit...  I say it's a combination of factors as you did.  And observed that one factor may have been to do with the trouble witnessed.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: ferret on Wednesday, February 5, 2020, 11:22:21
A list of every other "Brexit voting town" who played at home on Saturday and witnessed a sharp upturn in home support on the day would be welcome.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: horlock07 on Wednesday, February 5, 2020, 11:25:32
I'm uncertain as to why you choose to post such stuff rather than engage in what could be interesting debate.  

Happy to engage in a debate, less so with someone who consistently posts conjecture as fact, constantly moves the goalposts when picked up on it (and cries bullying when called out) and it appears is desperate for the club to fail. Hence why I also choose not to debate with that Cheltenham supporting bloke on Facebook.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Reg Smeeton on Wednesday, February 5, 2020, 11:26:31
So why was there still trouble at football before Brexit? Apart from, perhaps, yourself I doubt any fans attending on Saturday had Brexit at the forefront of their minds.

When, if ever, have Exeter ever brought 2000 fans to the CG?

Quite possibly the case, but it's well documented that incidents of homophobia, racism etc are on the rise again in football, as in wider society, so it may be coincidence that we had an outbreak or not.  What we don't want to see is this sort of thing coming back....  the hooliganism of the 70's was a major factor in STFC shelling so many fans 


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: pauld on Wednesday, February 5, 2020, 11:27:16
Bull shit...  I say it's a combination of factors as you did.  And observed that one factor may have been to do with the trouble witnessed.
TBF it does occur to me that actually as Tails observed much of the excitement around the game was generated on social media. There was plenty of coverage in local press and on radio as well, but as Tails says a lot of the "cannot miss this game" stuff was on social. If you deliberately avoid such platforms, you may not have seen any of that, so may not be aware of what a good job the club are doing with that. But Brexit??? :Ride On Fatbury's Lovestick:


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: pauld on Wednesday, February 5, 2020, 11:27:51
Quite possibly the case, but it's well documented that incidents of homophobia, racism etc are on the rise again in football, as in wider society, so it may be coincidence that we had an outbreak or not.  What we don't want to see is this sort of thing coming back....  the hooliganism of the 70's was a major factor in STFC shelling so many fans 
Completely agree. But none of these things put 5000 on the gate on Saturday


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Reg Smeeton on Wednesday, February 5, 2020, 11:36:50
TBF it does occur to me that actually as Tails observed much of the excitement around the game was generated on social media. There was plenty of coverage in local press and on radio as well, but as Tails says a lot of the "cannot miss this game" stuff was on social. If you deliberately avoid such platforms, you may not have seen any of that, so may not be aware of what a good job the club are doing with that. But Brexit??? :Ride On Fatbury's Lovestick:

Hence a combination of factors as I observed as you agreed....


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Reg Smeeton on Wednesday, February 5, 2020, 11:42:03
Completely agree. But none of these things put 5000 on the gate on Saturday

Nor will it be the case that if we get 7500 v Scunny, the missing 3500 will have been put off by trouble.  It will be again a combination of factors... including those for whom the potential for trouble isn't high enough.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: wheretherealredsare on Wednesday, February 5, 2020, 11:42:40
The answer is the same as it’s always been. Increased away support and booze. Brexit has fuck all to do with it - how could it?

SN1 is the new Paris?


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Tails on Wednesday, February 5, 2020, 11:44:48
So why was there still trouble at football before Brexit? Apart from, perhaps, yourself I doubt any fans attending on Saturday had Brexit at the forefront of their minds.

When, if ever, have Exeter ever brought 2000 fans to the CG?

Before we joined the EU maybe? :D


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: pauld on Wednesday, February 5, 2020, 11:47:26
Nor will it be the case that if we get 7500 v Scunny, the missing 3500 will have been put off by trouble.  It will be again a combination of factors... including those for whom the potential for trouble isn't high enough.
Who number possibly in the dozens, if that, certainly not in the 000s. It's pretty much irrelevant as a factor in a discussion as to why we put 5000+ on the gate on Saturday. You've made a bit of a silly point and you're making yourself look sillier by trying to stand by it


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Reg Smeeton on Wednesday, February 5, 2020, 11:52:13
Who number possibly in the dozens, if that, certainly not in the 000s. It's pretty much irrelevant as a factor in a discussion as to why we put 5000+ on the gate on Saturday. You've made a bit of a silly point and you're making yourself look sillier by trying to stand by it

 Let me see if I've got this  :hmmm: a factor which increases numbers,  is to be disregarded because it doesn't increase numbers, even though it does.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Gnasher on Wednesday, February 5, 2020, 11:57:22
Seems pretty obvious to me why the gate was up - it was 1st v 2nd and the prodigal son(s) had returned. Everything was positive and there was a sense of excitement not witnessed for many years.

You'd hope that 500-1000 of those who don't regularly attend games will be hooked again, and I'd hope to see at least 8000 home fans for the Scunny game.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Reg Smeeton on Wednesday, February 5, 2020, 12:06:51
Happy to engage in a debate, less so with someone who consistently posts conjecture as fact, constantly moves the goalposts when picked up on it (and cries bullying when called out) and it appears is desperate for the club to fail. Hence why I also choose not to debate with that Cheltenham supporting bloke on Facebook.

More bullshit... a classic example of your attempt at debate, when I posted up about the sale of the youth teamer. Now to me this was an interesting development that some might want to know about and debate.... your response, to those who did engage.... don't encourage him.

Quote
It has still not been confirmed who the player was or the fee we got for him so possibly consign this thread to the BS bin?

Now the post was put in Lounge as was stated about the need for care as the info was not yet official. The debate which ensued enabled interested posters to pad out the suject with what they knew.... exactly the sort of thing that is wanted.

Not conjecture, fact, as far as it could go at the time... trying to shut this sort of thing down or encouraging others not to participate isn't particularly debate as I understand it or wish to partake in.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: horlock07 on Wednesday, February 5, 2020, 12:14:10
Not conjecture, fact, as far as it could go at the time... trying to shut this sort of thing down or encouraging others not to participate isn't particularly debate as I understand it or wish to partake in.

Fingers crossed eh.



Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Flashheart on Wednesday, February 5, 2020, 12:15:56
(https://i.imgur.com/ucnjmsh.gif)


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: pauld on Wednesday, February 5, 2020, 12:31:05
Let me see if I've got this  :hmmm: a factor which increases numbers,  is to be disregarded because it doesn't increase numbers, even though it does.
No, a factor which may or may not have any affect on numbers, but even if it does is insignificant, to be regarded as not being significant because it isn't. Hope that aids your understanding.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: The Artist Formerly Known as Audrey on Wednesday, February 5, 2020, 12:36:35
Anyway, was there actually any ‘old skool’ trouble? Looked like some posturing in The Merlin and some pavement dancing on Manchester Road.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: RobertT on Wednesday, February 5, 2020, 12:38:58
The crowd was a very unique event - we've struggled to get such crowds even with success in higher divisions in the past, outside of the last game or two, or massive away followings/Prem league.

Very impressive work by the club to build a sense of rarity.

It can't have been Brexit, my mum isn't gong until the Grimsby game.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: RedRag on Wednesday, February 5, 2020, 12:40:11
I was thinking about the fantastic attendance on Saturday and I still can’t really put my finger on why it was so huge.

We had similar games against promotion rivals recently - Crewe, Bradford (were at the time) - and there were circa 7000 home fans.

Surely, it can’t have been just about the Doyle hoo-ha. Adding 4000 fans is virtually unprecedented for a league game (for us) that wasn’t an actual promotion or championship decider.

I still find it kinda weird.
That all ended up in a bit of a shitfight.  Good question, mind.

Speaking personally, I usually manage 1 or 2 games a month and after Bradford and Port Vale and a social commitment for Saturday. I was not planning on going.  When it became evident that there was not going to be just 10,000 but a potential home sell out, I just welched on my family and HAD TO BE THERE.  Fear of Missing Out, aka FOMO.

Fair play to Exeter as their early claim on the Stratton Bank raised the 1st v 2nd ante, then the feelgood factor of the signings (especially Doyle's) took it up a further notch.

Not Brexit but I guess some Old Skoolers saw an opportunity this time but it's worth remembering that, when anticipated,  their participation has tended to REDUCE attendances (eg the low crowds for visits by the Pox).


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Exiled Bob on Wednesday, February 5, 2020, 12:47:05
A list of every other "Brexit voting town" who played at home on Saturday and witnessed a sharp upturn in home support on the day would be welcome.
Quite.....as Reg only deals in facts he can surely come up with the relevant data to back his argument up.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Peter Venkman on Wednesday, February 5, 2020, 12:47:53
The crowd was a very unique event - we've struggled to get such crowds even with success in higher divisions in the past, outside of the last game or two, or massive away followings/Prem league.

Very impressive work by the club to build a sense of rarity.
Very much so.

Bear in mind when we were in the Premier League that attendance was bigger than at 7 games (home and away) that season in games involving Swindon and only a few hundred lower than 3 others games, 5 of those 10 sub 13k games being home games.

FWIW one of the games under 13k in that season was  a paltry 11,180 away at Stamford Bridge!


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Peter Venkman on Wednesday, February 5, 2020, 12:52:46
Also if you take into account the Hoddle promotion season, in the whole season we only had more than 13,000 for games vs Birmingham, Pompey, Leicester, West Ham and Bristol City, the shitty game was only 100 more than we got on Saturday.

That was an amazing turn out on Saturday all things considered.

Even the Tranmere play off was only 1k more.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: RobertT on Wednesday, February 5, 2020, 12:58:35
That Birmingham game was practically free entry as well.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: 4D on Wednesday, February 5, 2020, 13:11:22
We had 17.5k against Newcastle  ;)


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Reg Smeeton on Wednesday, February 5, 2020, 13:44:35
Fingers crossed eh.

Take the opportunity.... what do you think about the club getting some money for a youth teamer..... good, bad, indifferent?

What do you think about Wellens being the 36th longest serving manager of the 92, having done a year and 3 months  A sign that the nature of the game is short term stays or something else?

You haven't said.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Flashheart on Wednesday, February 5, 2020, 13:47:41
We had 17.5k against Newcastle  ;)

But did that game coincide with a significant shift in the country's relationship with another country, or bloc of countries?


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: The Artist Formerly Known as Audrey on Wednesday, February 5, 2020, 13:55:43
Take the opportunity.... what do you think about the club getting some money for a youth teamer..... good, bad, indifferent?

What do you think about Wellens being the 36th longest serving manager of the 92, having done a year and 3 months  A sign that the nature of the game is short term stays or something else?

You haven't said.

Money from Brighton for Ifill? Definitely good. Always difficult for smaller clubs to integrate a young ‘un into the side. Presume, like Bogle, there is a substantial sell on clause.

History is full of relatively new managers getting an opportunity with a club usually a couple of rungs further up the ladder - usually a disaster. If, and it’s a big if, Wellens believes that there is something afoot at STFC in the immediate future, he may decide to carry on riding the wave. Its not really STFC in isolation regarding decisions like this - every smaller club is some kind of stepping stone - whether for players or managers.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: @mwooly63 on Wednesday, February 5, 2020, 13:57:59
Anyway, was there actually any ‘old skool’ trouble? Looked like some posturing in The Merlin and some pavement dancing on Manchester Road.

Doubt the town fan that got a few slaps in the Merlin thought of it as posturing. Didnt see any but heard of a few bits down some of the side streets off manny road and a few along the Arkells after game.
Not forgetting them offering Rockin Robin out  :Ride On Fatbury's Lovestick:

Not exactly old old skool tho.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: horlock07 on Wednesday, February 5, 2020, 14:00:14
Take the opportunity.... what do you think about the club getting some money for a youth teamer..... good, bad, indifferent?

What do you think about Wellens being the 36th longest serving manager of the 92, having done a year and 3 months  A sign that the nature of the game is short term stays or something else?

You haven't said.


What relevance is this to Richie Wellens.. so far?

Its almost like once again you are challenged and the goalpost start having a meander!

If you are so keen on having an informed debate, this question in response to one of your dead cats, seems hanging and demanding of your immediate attention.

A list of every other "Brexit voting town" who played at home on Saturday and witnessed a sharp upturn in home support on the day would be welcome.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: horlock07 on Wednesday, February 5, 2020, 14:28:11
Whilst all this naval gazing is jolly good fun, talking of Wellens did he say anything of interest during the phone in thingy last night?


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Bob's Orange on Wednesday, February 5, 2020, 14:43:51
Whilst all this naval gazing is jolly good fun, talking of Wellens did he say anything of interest during the phone in thingy last night?

He said that we had to sell Markus Ifill because of Brexit.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: The Artist Formerly Known as Audrey on Wednesday, February 5, 2020, 14:46:05
Whilst all this naval gazing is jolly good fun, talking of Wellens did he say anything of interest during the phone in thingy last night?
‘I see no ships’


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: 4D on Wednesday, February 5, 2020, 14:47:45
‘I see no ships’

Has your dinghy sunk?


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: The Artist Formerly Known as Audrey on Wednesday, February 5, 2020, 14:48:54
Strangely enough, I sold it today. Going for a sea kayak now.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: pauld on Wednesday, February 5, 2020, 14:49:47
Whilst all this naval gazing is jolly good fun, talking of Wellens did he say anything of interest during the phone in thingy last night?
He did mention Admiral


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Batch on Wednesday, February 5, 2020, 15:27:56
Quote from: horlock07
Whilst all this naval gazing is jolly good fun, talking of Wellens did he say anything of interest during the phone in thingy last night?

only contacted until summer right now.

the current training arrangements is the worst bit of the job.

brexit ate his hamster


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: RedRag on Wednesday, February 5, 2020, 16:57:35
Strangely enough, I sold it today. Going for a sea kayak now.
After all the bad publicity for kayakers and the monkey hangers, I hope you're not planning a John Darwin just when everything is going so well for STFC  ;)



Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: The Artist Formerly Known as Audrey on Saturday, February 8, 2020, 10:52:36
Not a bad article

https://www.thenational.ae/sport/football/inside-the-dressing-room-with-swindon-town-manager-richie-wellens-1.975742


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Legends-Lounge on Saturday, February 8, 2020, 12:35:19
Not a bad article

https://www.thenational.ae/sport/football/inside-the-dressing-room-with-swindon-town-manager-richie-wellens-1.975742

I enjoyed it too, until Wellens spoilt by saying he wanted to manage some club called Manchester United!? Why? Who the fuck are they? Are we not good enough?


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: The Artist Formerly Known as Audrey on Saturday, February 8, 2020, 12:46:08
Change his name to Riccardo Wellenisimo and they’d employ him.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Bogus Dave on Saturday, February 8, 2020, 12:52:23
Anything to be concerned that his family are all still based in Manchester??

How long term would you do a job 150 miles away from home?


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Costanza on Saturday, February 8, 2020, 13:07:22
I don't think Richie Wellens is any different to any manager Town have had in so much as he will leave when the time is right for him or when it's taken a turn for the worse!

In the short term, Salford City irrationally worry me (even if Wellens gets Town promoted). Nice budget, local to him and I think he would get a consistant tune out of them.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Peter Venkman on Saturday, February 8, 2020, 13:13:50
I don't think Richie Wellens is any different to any manager Town have had in so much as he will leave when the time is right for him or when it's taken a turn for the worse!

In the short term, Salford City irrationally worry me (even if Wellens gets Town promoted). Nice budget, local to him and I think he would get a consistant tune out of them.
Absolutely.

He is also friends with Gary Neville, Ryan Giggs, Paul Scholes, Nicky Butt and Phil Neville, being a couple of years younger than them and coming through the same United teams.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: The Artist Formerly Known as Audrey on Saturday, February 8, 2020, 13:16:53
Can’t see that at all. Why stall your career staying in L2 when you could be enhancing it with a club competing to get in the Championship?

Doesn’t strike me as the ‘easy life’ sort.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Red Frog on Saturday, February 8, 2020, 13:20:58
I don't think Richie Wellens is any different to any manager Town have had in so much as he will leave when the time is right for him or when it's taken a turn for the worse!

In the short term, Salford City irrationally worry me (even if Wellens gets Town promoted). Nice budget, local to him and I think he would get a consistant tune out of them.

Me too. It’s such a good fit. Unfortunately, I think our best chance of keeping him lies in the hands of Highworth Town Council.  :(


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Peter Venkman on Saturday, February 8, 2020, 13:22:47
Me too. It’s such a good fit. Unfortunately, I think our best chance of keeping him lies in the hands of Highworth Town Council.  :(
Wellens is making a fairly big deal about the training facilities recently. Could be that Power "sold" the club to him with this being one of the deciding factors.

Or Wellens is trying use the media to show the council/s how important he feels it is to the club.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Costanza on Saturday, February 8, 2020, 13:26:50
Can’t see that at all. Why stall your career staying in L2 when you could be enhancing it with a club competing to get in the Championship?

Doesn’t strike me as the ‘easy life’ sort.

Wellens is almost 40, he has a lot of years left in management and if Peter Lim and the 92ers remain owners then the long-term Salford plan would excite and interest most lower league managers, regardless of where they are located. They're not FGR.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Peter Venkman on Saturday, February 8, 2020, 13:30:45
Wellens is almost 40, he has a lot of years left in management and if Peter Lim and the 92ers remain owners then the long-term Salford plan would excite and interest most lower league managers, regardless of where they are located. They're not FGR.
I would suggest that TBH Wellens would be mad not to go if they came knocking. As you say every manager worth his salt in the lower leagues would be interested in getting into that club with their financial backing, even more so if they are based locally to him, which they are.

It would be a no brainer.

I just hope Wellens has seen enough in us as a club that he would stay at a club with a fanbase 5 or 6 times (or maybe more) the size of Salfords fanbase.

Power needs to get his contract tied down ASAP that at least the club would get adequate compensation if he was approached.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Flashheart on Friday, May 15, 2020, 15:35:15
Not too shabby.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: RobertT on Friday, May 15, 2020, 16:58:52
One full season as a Manager, one Championship*.  Pretty good going.

* - who gives a fuck how.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: pauld on Friday, May 15, 2020, 19:36:44
And made us the most entertaining team in English football - FACT!

(https://pbs.twimg.com/media/EYElKi6XYAMMrkm?format=jpg&name=small)


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Peter Venkman on Saturday, May 16, 2020, 08:34:49
Just shows our direness from set peices! *has to be our only weakness.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: 4D on Saturday, May 16, 2020, 08:41:03
Doughty obviously decent with his free kicks, but it's corners we need to score more from. Remember the great days of Taylor and Calderwood.

https://youtu.be/gpl2_DSJSVM


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Legends-Lounge on Saturday, May 16, 2020, 09:01:18
Just shows our direness from set peices! *has to be our only weakness.

To a degree it does. Though I was thinking how our number of corners per games looks and free kicks in the last third also look compared with other clubs, that would further cement that stat. I suspect that Wellens knows this and will be taking steps to address that in L1 😁


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Peter Venkman on Saturday, May 16, 2020, 09:04:35
To a degree it does. Though I was thinking how our number of corners per games looks and free kicks in the last third also look compared with other clubs, that would further cement that stat. I suspect that Wellens knows this and will be taking steps to address that in L1 😁
I would suggest that we have had probably more than our fair share of corners yet rarely score from them, I think no more than 3 or 4 goals from corners this season at most? and free kicks are even rarer, DOughty grabbed at least 1 IIRC and maybe Rose but thats about it.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: ibelieveinmrreeves on Saturday, May 16, 2020, 09:54:21
Interesting that three of the top five are in Lg1 and 2 - the 'lump it leagues'.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Peter Venkman on Saturday, May 16, 2020, 10:01:34
It would have been L2 play off final at Wembley today had the season played out.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: The Artist Formerly Known as Audrey on Saturday, May 16, 2020, 10:09:41
Doughty obviously decent with his free kicks, but it's corners we need to score more from. Remember the great days of Taylor and Calderwood.

https://youtu.be/gpl2_DSJSVM
Tbf, a lot of our corners - especially in the latter games - were played short to DJ in an effort to bamboozle defenders before passing it in hope of finding Doyle et al.

If Wellens feels he’d rather have defensive cover from a corner breakdown rather than an ‘all up and hope someone gets a head on it’ approach that is an obvious tactical decision not to just chuck a corner into the box.

Free kicks, however, are another matter - although the same approach applies. Pointless hoiking it in if we really don’t have any options to get on the end of a high ball. Doughty can take a mean direct free kick.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Legends-Lounge on Saturday, May 16, 2020, 10:19:35
I would suggest that we have had probably more than our fair share of corners yet rarely score from them, I think no more than 3 or 4 goals from corners this season at most? and free kicks are even rarer, DOughty grabbed at least 1 IIRC and maybe Rose but thats about it.

Definitely a poor set piece season I agree. Nice thing about football is the optimism that the next match, next cup run, next penalty or next season is not far away to improve in some meaningful way.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Flashheart on Saturday, May 16, 2020, 10:26:58
Regarding set pieces.

I remember earlier this year Wellens saying that at this level, you have to choose between physicality OR technique. You can't have both. At a higher level, when you can afford to pay more, you can afford to look at more players that offer both. So, maybe we'll improve in that aspect next season. I won't be too upset if we don't, though.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Panda Paws on Saturday, May 16, 2020, 10:53:26
Corners, and crossing in general, are overrated. Super low xG. Much better recycling possession and creating high quality chances, much to the fury of the Arkells.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Legends-Lounge on Saturday, May 16, 2020, 11:06:35
Regarding set pieces.

I remember earlier this year Wellens saying that at this level, you have to choose between physicality OR technique. You can't have both. At a higher level, when you can afford to pay more, you can afford to look at more players that offer both. So, maybe we'll improve in that aspect next season. I won't be too upset if we don't, though.

That is a fair comment, from both of you. After all we have ‘gained’ promotion on the back of playing possession football and putting the ball on the ground and into the net very successfully.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: swindonmaniac on Saturday, May 16, 2020, 11:17:38
That is a fair comment, from both of you. After all we have ‘gained’ promotion on the back of playing possession football and putting the ball on the ground and into the net very successfully.
But would this tactic work in L1,  especially if Doyle is no longer with us ??,    interesting times ahead.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Flashheart on Saturday, May 16, 2020, 11:25:13
Without wanting to belittle Doyle's season, I think any half decent striker will do well under Wellens.

Yates has a similar scoring record to Doyle when he has been played in Doye's postition. Doyle also had a simliar scoring record at Oldhamd in L1.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: swindonmaniac on Saturday, May 16, 2020, 11:30:50
Without wanting to belittle Doyle's season, I think any half decent striker will do well under Wellens.

Yates has a similar scoring record to Doyle when he has been played in Doye's postition. Doyle also had a simliar scoring record at Oldhamd in L1.
Would love to see him stay for another season,  but can't really see it happening.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: The Artist Formerly Known as Audrey on Saturday, May 16, 2020, 11:51:42
 Nobody is going to be offering contracts in the near future - us included. If it is to be football BCD into next year, most clubs will struggle to put a squad together.

I reckon if football does go ahead BCD the general standard will be shocking. Any club with a bit of money - and there will be very few - will hoover up whatever league they’re in.

Doubtful there will be 3 EFL leagues left, tbh.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: pauld on Saturday, May 16, 2020, 13:14:00
Corners, and crossing in general, are overrated. Super low xG. Much better recycling possession and creating high quality chances, much to the fury of the Arkells.
100%. At least on corners, although I think we've generally done well from crosses this season. Even where they haven't led directly to goals, some of the balls in from wide have caused chaos in oppo defence which has then allowed us to open them up to have a shot from the next phase. I have no stats at all to back that up, so may be my perception, esp as I'm aware that in general you are correct, the stats show crosses aren't nearly as effective as we all think they are.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: theakston2k on Saturday, May 16, 2020, 13:15:47
Corners, and crossing in general, are overrated. Super low xG. Much better recycling possession and creating high quality chances, much to the fury of the Arkells.
No no no no no! Just get it forward, lump it in the box. Have you learnt nothing from the experts in the CG on match days?!


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Batch on Saturday, May 16, 2020, 17:37:10
it's the Richie Wellens on Twitter THE Richie Wellens?


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Flashheart on Saturday, May 16, 2020, 17:38:35
it's the Richie Wellens on Twitter THE Richie Wellens?

He is on twitter, he's been interacting with fans a lot.



Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Batch on Saturday, May 16, 2020, 17:42:21
thanks


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Flashheart on Saturday, May 16, 2020, 17:46:56
It's all well and good while things are going to plan. You can guarantee he'll be up against a lot of bellendery at some point, though.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: JBZ on Saturday, May 16, 2020, 19:13:19
Ain't that the truth.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Panda Paws on Saturday, May 16, 2020, 19:32:06
He has said he's only on it cos of lockdown. Easy to disappear.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Wobbly Bob on Monday, May 25, 2020, 09:19:39
Interview in The Sun.

https://www.thesun.co.uk/sport/football/11699563/swindon-ritchie-wellens-hollow-promotion/


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: swindonmaniac on Monday, May 25, 2020, 17:03:06
He has said he's only on it cos of lockdown. Easy to disappear.
Hope you're talking about Twitter,  not Swindon.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Abrahammer on Monday, July 27, 2020, 18:25:05
David Artell gets Manager of the Year, can’t imagine Wellens would give a shit about awards like that though


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: donkey on Monday, July 27, 2020, 18:43:16
David Artell gets Manager of the Year, can’t imagine Wellens would give a shit about awards like that though

To be fair he got Crewe to second with Lancashire in the side...


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Peter Venkman on Monday, July 27, 2020, 18:50:34
To be fair he got Crewe to second with Lancashire in the side...
Admittedly only for 9 games, was way out of his depth according to the Crewe forum.

He has another year left on his contract too!


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Abrahammer on Monday, July 27, 2020, 18:51:42
To be fair he got Crewe to second with Lancashire in the side...

Probably did a better job in all fairness, assume budget was nowhere near ours.

One thing that slightly winds me up is how MOY award generally just automatically goes to whoever wins the league, certainly in the PL anyway, it’s just lazy


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Peter Venkman on Friday, August 7, 2020, 11:11:13
Wellens gets L2 manager of the year from the Grauniad.

https://www.theguardian.com/football/2020/aug/07/who-makes-efl-football-league-teams-of-the-season-2019-20

Doyle L2 player of the season too.

Doyle the only Town player to make the team of the season, seems a bit harsh though, especially on Grant.

Quote
Alex Palmer (Plymouth); Perry Ng (Crewe), Ben Tozer (Cheltenham), Charlie Goode (Northampton), Harry Pickering (Crewe); Nicky Adams (Northampton), Jonny Smith (Oldham), George Cooper (Plymouth); Randell Williams (Exeter), Eoin Doyle (Swindon), Charlie Kirk (Crewe)

Quote
Player of the season: Eoin Doyle Nicknamed the ‘Ginger Pelé’, a return of 25 goals in 28 matches goes some way to explaining the moniker. The Dubliner fuelled Swindon’s promotion push but the bad news for League Two defences is that he signed for relegated Bolton last month.

Manager: Richie Wellens (Swindon) The former midfielder led Swindon to the title with a swashbuckling style that has restored fans’ faith. A former Manchester United trainee under Sir Alex Ferguson, Wellens – whose son, Charlie, signed a professional contract at Old Trafford in May – can lean on his former mentor if required. “I did ring Sir Alex up when I first got the job,” he said.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: reeves4england on Friday, August 7, 2020, 11:13:25
Wellens gets L2 manager of the year from the Grauniad.

https://www.theguardian.com/football/2020/aug/07/who-makes-efl-football-league-teams-of-the-season-2019-20

Doyle L2 player of the season too.

Doyle the only Town player to make the team of the season, seems a bit harsh though, especially on Grant.

You're forgetting that we were a one man team PV.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Peter Venkman on Friday, August 7, 2020, 11:15:24
You're forgetting that we were a one man team PV.
It does seem that many think of us like that for sure.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: pauld on Friday, August 7, 2020, 11:22:18
Wellens gets L2 manager of the year from the Grauniad.

https://www.theguardian.com/football/2020/aug/07/who-makes-efl-football-league-teams-of-the-season-2019-20

Doyle L2 player of the season too.

Doyle the only Town player to make the team of the season, seems a bit harsh though, especially on Grant.

Obviously we know, and the Guardian's football writers know, that the team of the season should have just been our starting XI but then they'd have been accused of bias so they have to spread the love around a little so all the lesser teams get a look in as well


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Peter Venkman on Friday, August 7, 2020, 11:26:49
Obviously we know, and the Guardian's football writers know, that the team of the season should have just been our starting XI but then they'd have been accused of bias so they have to spread the love around a little so all the lesser teams get a look in as well
Or they have been paid by Blackpool to keep the other teams off our scent for potential new signings.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: donkey on Friday, August 7, 2020, 11:36:53
Wellens gets L2 manager of the year from the Grauniad.

https://www.theguardian.com/football/2020/aug/07/who-makes-efl-football-league-teams-of-the-season-2019-20

Doyle L2 player of the season too.

Doyle the only Town player to make the team of the season, seems a bit harsh though, especially on Grant.


There wasn't a better midfielder than Grant in L2.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Peter Venkman on Friday, August 7, 2020, 11:37:25
There wasn't a better midfielder than Grant in L2.
I totally agree.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Costanza on Friday, August 7, 2020, 12:17:15
It's a good selection to be honest and I think most XIs will include the same players.

There would have been some marginal calls and we hardly romped home (didn't get the chance to). The 'one man team' narrative was quite prominent outside of Town's bubble too.


Title: Re: Richie Wellens.. so far.
Post by: Peter Venkman on Friday, August 7, 2020, 12:22:51
The 'one man team' narrative was quite prominent outside of Town's bubble too.
This was levelled at Tranmere the season before with Norwood where his 29 goals got them promotion, albeit through the play offs.

That was proven true though as Tranmere were relegated without his goals.