not quite but at the services , game we should have won & quite clear about that , pyke must score to put us 3-1 up then i think their heads drop , overall think we played ok & people calling for two up front it works to a certain extent but we got slightly over run second half for 20 mins & credit to hurst he saw it , footnote all fans have an opinion but booing at the end not a good fit , not an happy clapper but i can spot players trying & putting 100% in for the shirt utm
Posted by: Dodorondon, October 7, 2023, 6:48pm; Reply: 1
I can understand the Twitter critics, who for the most part are just wannabes trying to be clever like so many on social media. But who are these fans who are booing at the end of a drawn away game? Small wonder with such ‘fans’ that the Mariners remain a small town club. How sad it would be if all the recent optimism floundered in a sea of Hurst vitriol. All those players who were sold the club for its magnificent away support must be beginning to feel they have been conned.
Posted by: barralad, October 7, 2023, 6:52pm; Reply: 2
I thought it was an entertaining draw between two sides not at their best but there was no shortage of effort from Town. We undoubtedly gifted them their first. Waterfall was caught flat footed and their lad couldn't really miss. Credit due for the way they fought back and immense credit to Danny Rose for not giving up on what looked like a lost cause. I'd like to see the angle he had because it looked very tight from the other end. Pike took his goal really well-cracking finish. Contrary to popular opinion I thought their equaliser was an excellent goal. Pinpoint cross and a great header (I cannot remember Jennings ever doing anything anywhere as good in his days in a black and white shirt). We still suffer from too many over/under hit passes.Clifton got into some great positions only for the pass not to reach him. His cross for Pike's header was superb. I agree with the poster who said we need Maher back asap. A back four of Mullarkey, Maher. Rogers and Amos should provide the protection for the goals that our forwards are now starting to get. MOM Danny Rose-such a clever player.
Posted by: Chrisblor, October 7, 2023, 7:00pm; Reply: 3
There were very few people booing and shouting "out" at the end, let's not blow things out of proportion here. Most of the away end either shuffled quietly towards the exits, or clapped the players and manager off.
Posted by: chaos33, October 7, 2023, 7:04pm; Reply: 4
I’ll put plenty of stock in your view Barra, and that of Robbie Stockdale who has the credentials to prove he knows what he’s talking about. His general view was that we are ‘not far off’ and listed plenty of positives. I’ll take that over the entitled, miserable clamours from the usual f***wits who think that every goal we concede is soft, that other clubs don’t get to score goals and that we should win every week or Hurst should go.
Decent point. Could’ve been 3. Onwards…. UTM
Posted by: ska face, October 7, 2023, 7:29pm; Reply: 5
Their first looks more like handball every time I see it -
There were very few people booing and shouting "out" at the end, let's not blow things out of proportion here. Most of the away end either shuffled quietly towards the exits, or clapped the players and manager off.
Still too many, along with those singing the usual drivel throughout the match
Posted by: It Bites, October 7, 2023, 7:36pm; Reply: 7
Still too many, along with those singing the usual drivel throughout the match
Too many coked out mammaries follow town away . They just gob off absolute bollox unless town are winning 5-0 . Again , which is why I sit in the home ends
Posted by: Heisenberg, October 7, 2023, 7:58pm; Reply: 8
Too many coked out mammaries follow town away . They just gob off absolute bollox unless town are winning 5-0 . Again , which is why I sit in the home ends
That’s a shame, and embarrassing. And totally believable.
I saw a couple of dozen idiots at the end of the Crawley game and, despite the fact I was bereft, I could have killed them. Such simpletons.
We all want better, but if we beat Accrington next weekend - which I think we will - the outlook willl be pretty positive.
People need to calm down.
Posted by: Chrisblor, October 7, 2023, 8:02pm; Reply: 9
Don't think it was, the entire away end had a perfect view and I didn't hear any appeals at the time. Think it's just a good first touch with his chest. No idea how they've missed the Pyke chance off those highlights before their equaliser, or Eisa's shot which was tipped just around the post in favour of one at the end where their centre half comfortably clears a cross into touch. Sky should sack whichever underpaid intern edits these together.
Posted by: It Bites, October 7, 2023, 8:10pm; Reply: 10
That’s a shame, and embarrassing. And totally believable.
I saw a couple of dozen idiots at the end of the Crawley game and, despite the fact I was bereft, I could have killed them. Such simpletons.
We all want better, but if we beat Accrington next weekend - which I think we will - the outlook willl be pretty positive.
People need to calm down.
Oh don’t get me wrong though, I love a good moan and I’m partial to an over reaction but booing the team after an away point just isn’t supporting your team
Posted by: aldi_01, October 7, 2023, 8:38pm; Reply: 11
Oh don’t get me wrong though, I love a good moan and I’m partial to an over reaction but booing the team after an away point just isn’t supporting your team
They’re not supporters, they’re probably just getting in now, flipping up the laptop and search for some spaff media, desperately searching for one that looks like the avoidant mother they so desperately crave. Finishing in a sports direct sock before embarking on a trip down meggies to swill some Dark fruits down their neck before walking back home, to their jizz stained sheets, but really happy because they booed their team…
Posted by: Maringer, October 7, 2023, 8:40pm; Reply: 12
You've put way, way too much thought into that post. ??)
Posted by: grimsby pete, October 7, 2023, 8:45pm; Reply: 13
You do know you can have a free eye test when you get to 65 mate. ;)
Posted by: ska face, October 7, 2023, 8:56pm; Reply: 14
Got to take the positives where you can I suppose, and that’s the third game in the last 4 where we’ve scored twice. Rose has 4 in 10 league games, more than Ryan Taylor managed in the entirety of last season. Wilson has 2 in 75 minutes (total) plus was involved in the first today. Pyke has 3 so far including the 2 in the JPT, and should surpass his best ever season (5). Eisa on 5 in 13 which is his best ever start to a season, finishing with 9 twice at Scunthorpe.
Hurst said at the start of the year he was hoping that this season would be an opportunity for a few players to realise their potential or have their best ever seasons. Think he was hinting at Vernam in that but certainly the chance for other forward players to really kick on.
Just need to tighten up at the back!
Posted by: lukeo, October 7, 2023, 8:58pm; Reply: 15
Only saw patches of the game. From what I saw a point seems a fair result.
Regards moaners. Since I grew up (admittedly in my younger years i shouted and moaned alot, especially on that massive downward spiral) I've not been one for screaming and shouting if we're playing excrement or losing heavy, ill just sit in silence. An example being swindon away last year, I just sat in silence and then moaned on the fishy a bit afterwards ;D
Posted by: The Caterham Mariner, October 7, 2023, 9:19pm; Reply: 16
Too many coked out mammaries follow town away . They just gob off absolute bollox unless town are winning 5-0 . Again , which is why I sit in the home ends
I sit far away from the main crowd like i was at Swindon To avoid unqualified referees and football pundits who are volunteers unpaid experts ...quite happy to watch Town away and form my own opinions. UTM 2023-24
Posted by: gtfc_chris, October 7, 2023, 9:25pm; Reply: 17
Watching most of the game online I thought it was a bit of a damp performance. It wasn't as poor as the Barrow game but certainly wasn't as commanding a performance as even some of the games we've lost.
People called for two up top, at times I thought it worked well but I also think it meant we surrendered some dominance in midfield. Especially in the second half - like the Barrow game - they came out all guns blazing which I don't think would have been the case in our usual setup. Tranmere were nothing like Barrow and posed almost no genuine frequent threat so to allow them the chance to gain dominance was more frustrating than Tuesday night.
That was backed up for me when we made the changes and Rose came off and we took control of the game again. Although we need to figure out how to be more of a threat in our 451 system I still believe it is our best one for what we have available and in terms of our ability to impose more control in games.
On an individual basis I can't help but feel Waterfall weakens us. During the game I thought about checking the stats on goals conceded and points gained with/without Waterfall. It pains me to say it because he was so monumental over the last two seasons, but for where we're hoping to go and the possession based game we're trying to play I don't think it suits and I think we panic more at the back because the composure doesn't flow across the whole back line.
I've never minded Efete and I don't think he's been poor at left back but I think we need to look back to Amos. I'm also not against Glennon but his form has dropped this season and for me, Amos is our best option at left back. Just having that natural balance, more so in games like these where the opposition aren't as strong can only be beneficial to us.
Pyke didn't make a lasting impression but there were times where he showed minor glimpses of what he could offer, not least a well taken goal and well done to him on that but he also should have made it 3-1. I don't think he's convinced anyone today but I think it's possibly his best game so far.
I'm not necessarily upset with a point, but I also can't help but feel that given Tranmeres frailties we could have taken three points today. I also think we'll need to be better next weekend if we want to take three points as Accrington will be better than Tranmere and this level of performance won't get the job done, admittedly recognising that we managed to take three points off Barrow when we deserved nothing.
Posted by: chaos33, October 7, 2023, 9:56pm; Reply: 18
Good balanced stuff. Constructive criticism and considered reflection. Down with that sort of thing!
Personally I thought that we were too easy to get at via full back positions (again) and we were short in allowing too many crosses, and it cost us again. If we don’t address our issues in these positions, we will continue to be inconsistent. I won’t pretend that this isn’t true for most , if not all teams in L2 though. Some teams took a thumping today. Take a look at the results of all the teams in the top half - they’ve all suffered some defeats, this season - some of them heavy to so-called ‘relegation contender’ teams, and loads of those goals conceded will be ‘soft’ or ‘sloppy’. That’s what it is. It’s L2 reality and it’s competitive. It makes me wonder what world some of the usual half wits who post on here live in - like they’re brutalised victims every time we concede a goal or don’t win, and they stumble onto here, almost glorying in the attention they get from a public declaration of how not winning every game is ‘unacceptable’ to them or how we’ll never go anywhere with Hurst and we should sack him. I understand even less those who travel all that way and then boo or abuse our players because we drew a L2 away match, and that’ll certainly get the players doing better in future games. Seriously - if it makes you angry and miserable and self righteous - why go, and why come on here blithering a load of old cobblers, and then crying when people call you out. Go watch GB news and have your chain pulled if that’s what you like, but pipe down.
Posted by: MuddyWaters, October 7, 2023, 10:02pm; Reply: 19
Good balanced stuff. Constructive criticism and considered reflection. Down with that sort of thing!
Personally I thought that we were too easy to get at via full back positions (again) and we were short in allowing too many crosses, and it cost us again. If we don’t address our issues in these positions, we will continue to be inconsistent. I won’t pretend that this isn’t true for most , if not all teams in L2 though. Some teams took a thumping today. Take a look at the results of all the teams in the top half - they’ve all suffered some defeats, this season - some of them heavy to so-called ‘relegation contender’ teams, and loads of those goals conceded will be ‘soft’ or ‘sloppy’. That’s what it is. It’s L2 reality and it’s competitive. It makes me wonder what world some of the usual half wits who post on here live in - like they’re brutalised victims every time we concede a goal or don’t win, and they stumble onto here, almost glorying in the attention they get from a public declaration of how not winning every game is ‘unacceptable’ to them or how we’ll never go anywhere with Hurst and we should sack him. I understand even less those who travel all that way and then boo or abuse our players because we drew a L2 away match, and that’ll certainly get the players doing better in future games. Seriously - if it makes you angry and miserable and self righteous - why go, and why come on here blithering a load of old cobblers, and then crying when people call you out. Go watch GB news and have your chain pulled if that’s what you like, but pipe down.
Some people are glass half full, some are glass half empty. Not everyone sees things the same way but, never mind eh, you’re right, they’re wrong.
You go on about being self righteous. Read your own words and tell me you’re not a hypocrite.
Posted by: chaos33, October 7, 2023, 10:16pm; Reply: 20
Some people are glass half full, some are glass half empty. Not everyone sees things the same way but, never mind eh, you’re right, they’re wrong.
You go on about being self righteous. Read your own words and tell me you’re not a hypocrite.
Glass half full is ok isn’t it. We do have shortcomings, weak links and areas for improvement. There’s lots to be critical of. The league position isn’t great. Our recurring frailties are frustrating and below what we should be striving for. Everyone wants and expects better. But we are behind the team, the players and the management/owners.
Booing and abusing your own players at the game or posting hysterical, entitled drivel on a forum isn’t where most normal people dwell is it. It’s unrealistic, it’s boring and it’s counterproductive. I’m not actually ‘going on’ about being self righteous. I’ve made one general point about it. It’s not a matter of who’s right and who’s wrong. You’re just underlining the point. There’s a mass of us in the middle with mixed feelings who can articulate and discuss all that calmly, lucidly with balanced, informed and critical opinions. It’s the wodge of bleating, entitled and miserable chuggers I’m pointing at.
Posted by: Civvy at last, October 7, 2023, 10:26pm; Reply: 21
We got away with one by waterfall during the pinball in our six yard box though.
Overall we had periods of dominance and periods of weakness, pyke had his best game for us but still missed a sitter. We were slightly the better team but we certainly weren't robbed of two points. 4 points out of the last 6 means enough to stabilse the position, we must now look to push on.
Posted by: gtfc_chris, October 8, 2023, 7:26am; Reply: 23
Fans that put their money and time to go to Tranmere.
Were you there ??
I’ve never quite really understood why some people see this as a reasonable excuse to hurl abuse at players/manager.
Fans pay to watch the game because it costs money to run a football club and charging people to watch the game helps pay the bills and I know I’m stating the obvious.
That money you pay doesn’t gift you a licence to abandon basic human etiquette and lay into people for trying to do their job.
If that were the case then there are a few people I would very happily pay their bosses good money to spend 90 minutes stood next to them detailing how they’re a waste of space. Don’t know them personally but hey, if that’s what buying a ticket does then it’s ok right?
Posted by: BobbyCummingsTackle, October 8, 2023, 8:06am; Reply: 24
They’re not supporters, they’re probably just getting in now, flipping up the laptop and search for some spaff media, desperately searching for one that looks like the avoidant mother they so desperately crave. Finishing in a sports direct sock before embarking on a trip down meggies to swill some Dark fruits down their neck before walking back home, to their jizz stained sheets, but really happy because they booed their team…
I`ve had worse nights out.
Posted by: BobbyCummingsTackle, October 8, 2023, 8:08am; Reply: 25
I’ve never quite really understood why some people see this as a reasonable excuse to hurl abuse at players/manager.
Fans pay to watch the game because it costs money to run a football club and charging people to watch the game helps pay the bills and I know I’m stating the obvious.
That money you pay doesn’t gift you a licence to abandon basic human etiquette and lay into people for trying to do their job.
If that were the case then there are a few people I would very happily pay their bosses good money to spend 90 minutes stood next to them detailing how they’re a waste of space. Don’t know them personally but hey, if that’s what buying a ticket does then it’s ok right?
Your point assumes that some have `basic human etiquette`
Posted by: Civvy at last, October 8, 2023, 8:16am; Reply: 26
I’ve never quite really understood why some people see this as a reasonable excuse to hurl abuse at players/manager.
Fans pay to watch the game because it costs money to run a football club and charging people to watch the game helps pay the bills and I know I’m stating the obvious.
That money you pay doesn’t gift you a licence to abandon basic human etiquette and lay into people for trying to do their job.
If that were the case then there are a few people I would very happily pay their bosses good money to spend 90 minutes stood next to them detailing how they’re a waste of space. Don’t know them personally but hey, if that’s what buying a ticket does then it’s ok right?
I wasn’t there but watched on telly. If I was there I wouldn’t have boo’d as I don’t think we were awful. But if people have paid and taken their time to go they are entitled to show their displeasure as long as it’s not over the top. I have in the past (at the end of a match) occasionally boo’d. This was followed by not going until we improved. There is no point in going if you are not going to get behind the team initially. I’m older now and so if I’m p1ssed off I just leave at the final whistle and don’t clap the players off. I’m not screaming for Hurst to go. But if I was Jason and Co I’d certainly be having a bit of thought as to who may be available should things not improve. UTM
Posted by: gtfc_chris, October 8, 2023, 9:15am; Reply: 27
I wasn’t there but watched on telly. If I was there I wouldn’t have boo’d as I don’t think we were awful. But if people have paid and taken their time to go they are entitled to show their displeasure as long as it’s not over the top. I have in the past (at the end of a match) occasionally boo’d. This was followed by not going until we improved. There is no point in going if you are not going to get behind the team initially. I’m older now and so if I’m p1ssed off I just leave at the final whistle and don’t clap the players off. I’m not screaming for Hurst to go. But if I was Jason and Co I’d certainly be having a bit of thought as to who may be available should things not improve. UTM
Boo’ing is a bit more nuanced for me because I’m sure at times throughout following Town we’ve all had a good boo at some point, myself very much included. In retrospect I’ve also - more in younger years - been vocal against referees and linesmen which contradicts my point earlier. Thankfully a shred of maturity has calmed that frustration somewhat, and recognising that a twisted logic that I’m not there to support the referee doesn’t really change the fact he’s human.
Booing, however, I understand is a means of demonstrating displeasure and it’s hard to argue against it in some senses. Shy of hurling abuse or sending a letter of disapproval there aren’t many other means to showcase displeasure at something involving the game.
The difficulty with it is that it’s all a matter of opinion. As we’re seeing on here, there is a growing contingent of fans who think PH time is perhaps drawn to a close and we need to look elsewhere. Others can see some frustration but don’t believe the situation is bad enough for that drastic a change.
Each game will follow similar thread, some might be expecting Barcelona, some recognise there is another team trying to win too and balance their assessment to reflect. Both scenarios leave room for displeasure but the first group are pre-disposed to be unhappy as their expectation is unrealistic.
Posted by: golfer, October 8, 2023, 10:08am; Reply: 28
A good away point but I think I would have played Holohan from the start. I'm surprised that so many people don't realize what he brings to the team.
Posted by: MuddyWaters, October 8, 2023, 10:20am; Reply: 29
Boo’ing is a bit more nuanced for me because I’m sure at times throughout following Town we’ve all had a good boo at some point, myself very much included. In retrospect I’ve also - more in younger years - been vocal against referees and linesmen which contradicts my point earlier. Thankfully a shred of maturity has calmed that frustration somewhat, and recognising that a twisted logic that I’m not there to support the referee doesn’t really change the fact he’s human.
Booing, however, I understand is a means of demonstrating displeasure and it’s hard to argue against it in some senses. Shy of hurling abuse or sending a letter of disapproval there aren’t many other means to showcase displeasure at something involving the game.
The difficulty with it is that it’s all a matter of opinion. As we’re seeing on here, there is a growing contingent of fans who think PH time is perhaps drawn to a close and we need to look elsewhere. Others can see some frustration but don’t believe the situation is bad enough for that drastic a change.
Each game will follow similar thread, some might be expecting Barcelona, some recognise there is another team trying to win too and balance their assessment to reflect. Both scenarios leave room for displeasure but the first group are pre-disposed to be unhappy as their expectation is unrealistic.
Fair play, it’s about different opinions.
For all that we’ve signed seemingly decent players, we look disjointed because we seem to flit around with formations and personnel. We’ve been decent in some periods of some games but we’re past the point where we should still be bedding in.
Much of my frustration is around the lack of cutting edge. First half at Bradford was case in point. That game should have been dead and buried.
Posted by: 1mickylyons, October 8, 2023, 10:29am; Reply: 30
Tranmere comfortably has the worst team I've seen this Season and failure to secure 3 points vs them was a case of 2 points dropped.Its a recurring theme this failure to see games out and the sooner Maher is back the better
Posted by: bradzmilne, October 8, 2023, 10:40am; Reply: 31
We’re struck in a bit of a rut in which we’re not putting teams away & undoubtedly that’s another 2 points dropped.
I’d be tempted to have a look at what strikers are available as a free agent as I just don’t think Pyke offers enough. All about personal opinions though and “statically” he did well enough yesterday.
Bringing Rose off was a bizarre move, as our single biggest goal threat.
Posted by: 1mickylyons, October 8, 2023, 11:02am; Reply: 32
Thought Pyke did OK yesterday and hopefully his well taken goal gives him confidence? The defence and keeper look shaky and opposition are preying upon it
Posted by: Davec, October 8, 2023, 11:15am; Reply: 33
How many points dropped from winning positions is that now? 17 I think? But I could be wrong.
Either way it is a lot and it needs fixing somehow
Posted by: Trevor Whymark, October 8, 2023, 1:33pm; Reply: 34
I'm not his greatest fan captain Pyke in someway he tries too hard and he easily read up front and his touch but can not fault work rate and bludgeoning effect .That said instead of the supporter at tranmere who constantly criticised his every touch but not when he scored could you enlighten him in how hold up the ball up better and roll his marker to link up instead of calling out rubbish I await your coaching tips in my next away game .Well I've returned back to north london long day still enjoyed every minute .Being surrounded with Tottenham Arsenal supporters and the rest of prem supporters every week at work I do laugh at their constant drivel their constant chants change the manager at every loss .That said lwe looking like a very light squad with injuries just need to get behind them and when we play we follow we follow we follow and that's the way we like it
Posted by: It Bites, October 8, 2023, 1:39pm; Reply: 35
I’ve never quite really understood why some people see this as a reasonable excuse to hurl abuse at players/manager.
Fans pay to watch the game because it costs money to run a football club and charging people to watch the game helps pay the bills and I know I’m stating the obvious.
That money you pay doesn’t gift you a licence to abandon basic human etiquette and lay into people for trying to do their job.
If that were the case then there are a few people I would very happily pay their bosses good money to spend 90 minutes stood next to them detailing how they’re a waste of space. Don’t know them personally but hey, if that’s what buying a ticket does then it’s ok right?
Football Supporter , it’s in the name isn’t it . If you’re at the game you really should support the team . A2-2 draw away at tranmere is no time to boo , if booing is what you like
Posted by: Garth, October 8, 2023, 1:46pm; Reply: 36
Only saw patches of the game. From what I saw a point seems a fair result.
Regards moaners. Since I grew up (admittedly in my younger years i shouted and moaned alot, especially on that massive downward spiral) I've not been one for screaming and shouting if we're playing excrement or losing heavy, ill just sit in silence. An example being swindon away last year, I just sat in silence and then moaned on the fishy a bit afterwards ;D
Moaners!!! They are better supporters than me, they spend their money on travel, food and tickets to follow Town
Posted by: grimsby pete, October 8, 2023, 4:18pm; Reply: 37
A good away point but I think I would have played Holohan from the start. I'm surprised that so many people don't realize what he brings to the team.
A good away point for a team with aspirations of mid table mediocrity, I as a fan this season was hoping for a bit more
Posted by: Blue Mariner, October 8, 2023, 7:55pm; Reply: 39
We were excrement, they were excrement. We had a excrement draw.
Posted by: Chrisblor, October 8, 2023, 8:54pm; Reply: 40
Some better highlights here:
Key events with timestamps:
Wilson blatantly kicked by Jennings in the penalty area which is ignored by the referee - 3m05s
Wilson savagely kneed at chest height by the goalkeeper, which is somehow given as a foul against him rather than a dismissal for their keeper for endangering an opponent - 3m23s
Tranmere 1-0 - 3m38s
Rose equaliser 1-1 - 3m57s
Pyke 2-1 - 4m56s
Pyke missed header from 3 yards - 6m00s
Tranmere equaliser at 2-2 is missing
Eisa effort tipped round the post 7m11s
(can't link to any of them directly because any time you try and put a youtube URL with a timestamp on the fishy for some annoying the message board forces a separate embedded video for each URL instead of just displaying a clickable link)
Posted by: cardiffmariner, October 8, 2023, 9:12pm; Reply: 41
You have to wonder how that isn’t a pen on Wilson! It’s a Sunday league centre backs tackle!
Posted by: Knut Anders Fosters Voles, October 8, 2023, 9:34pm; Reply: 42
I normally defend referees on here but he’s got a reasonable view of the Wilson ‘pen’ and still doesn’t give it. Definitely a penalty.
I don’t know how the incident with the keeper isn’t a red card. I can only assume he doesn’t see it properly but it’s clearly dangerous play.
Funnily enough, I was watching Genoa v Milan in a bar last night and Mike Maignan got sent off for the exact same challenge (and clattered into another Genoa player a second later for good measure).
See 1:16 for Maignan red card
Milan had used up all their subs so Olivier Giroud had to go in goal. Genoa hit the bar from the resulting free kick. Then Giroud made a brave one-on-one save before the Genoa keeper (Martinez) started playing as an extra striker. Martinez then got sent off for lunging into a tackle 25 yards out from Milan’s own goal. Crazy end to a football match.
Posted by: bradzmilne, October 8, 2023, 11:23pm; Reply: 43
Hurst can not win he keeps Rose on and posters on here say he was knacked. and would get injured.
Take him off like yesterday and he is wrong again.
Who would be a manager ?
I hope he plays young Gardener instead. Hopefully he won't even play Rose on Tuesday so he is fit for saturday.
Although I understand your sentiment, it’s not quite as black or white as you imply.
The reason we’re so reliant on Rose is because we don’t have a replacement. He’s absolutely integral to how we play and attack, in particular.
With our current crop of players there is no one that can do what he does. Therefore, we look significantly weaker when he isn’t on the pitch. Taking him off after 70 minutes while the game was tied didn’t feel appropriate at the time & I stand by that view.
So, I’d suggest either; Rose needs to last more than 70 minutes or we need another centre forward that can replace him like-for-like.
Posted by: Azimuth, October 9, 2023, 9:24am; Reply: 44
The challenge on Wilson by their keeper was terrible, very very dangerous and in reality should have been a red card.
Posted by: pen penfras, October 9, 2023, 9:32am; Reply: 45
The goalkeeper clearly gets the ball before Wilson clatters into him. If that was them attacking you'd all agree the ref got it right. Is their keeper not supposed to go for the ball and let Wilson score?
Posted by: Maringer, October 9, 2023, 10:08am; Reply: 46
It wasn't quite the full Schumacher, but in this day and age players are expected to be a bit more aware of their opponents and what might cause injury. I think I'd probably have said a yellow card for it, but penalising Wilson was just daft.
Posted by: AussieMariner, October 9, 2023, 10:16am; Reply: 47
The goalkeeper clearly gets the ball before Wilson clatters into him. If that was them attacking you'd all agree the ref got it right. Is their keeper not supposed to go for the ball and let Wilson score?
No, he’s entitled to challenge for the ball but he’s also not supposed to go into the challenge with his knee up endangering his opponent. It’s the equivalent to an egg chaser going into a tackle leading with his elbow.
Posted by: Chrisblor, October 9, 2023, 10:26am; Reply: 48
Here's what Law 12 says about it:
SERIOUS FOUL PLAY (Sending off offence)
A tackle or challenge that endangers the safety of an opponent or uses excessive force or brutality must be sanctioned as serious foul play.
Any player who lunges at an opponent in challenging for the ball from the front, from the side or from behind using one or both legs, with excessive force or endangers the safety of an opponent is guilty of serious foul play.
"getting to the ball first" is not a consideration if you endanger the safety of an opponent by leading with your knee at chest height as their keeper did with that challenge. I'm not arguing for introducing VAR in league two but it's very interesting that AC Milan's keeper was sent off for an identical challenge after VAR instigated an on-field review. Maybe if Saturday's ref had been able to see Wilson getting pole axed in slow motion from multiple angles he'd have changed his mind and made the correct decision.
Posted by: diehardmariner, October 9, 2023, 11:18am; Reply: 49
I thought second half there was a moment, perhaps fuelled by confidence from his goal, where Pyke believed in himself and started bullying their defence for a good 10 minutes.
Then as quickly as his confidence grew, it seemed to disappear again and he watched the play go past him.
There's questions about his work-rate and if he's lazy. Having made a point of looking at him on Saturday I'm not sure it's that he's lazy but more he's constantly on his back foot which leaves him too slow to react. Good players react quicker than others, the better players anticipate before anyone else, the best will dictate where the play goes.
Posted by: pontoonlew, October 9, 2023, 11:33am; Reply: 50
I thought second half there was a moment, perhaps fuelled by confidence from his goal, where Pyke believed in himself and started bullying their defence for a good 10 minutes.
Then as quickly as his confidence grew, it seemed to disappear again and he watched the play go past him.
There's questions about his work-rate and if he's lazy. Having made a point of looking at him on Saturday I'm not sure it's that he's lazy but more he's constantly on his back foot which leaves him too slow to react. Good players react quicker than others, the better players anticipate before anyone else, the best will dictate where the play goes.
My first thoughts watching Pyke have been Stefan Payne.
The sheer lack of mobility can often look like he’s lazy, but barely anything he does seems to come off. Hopefully he’s maybe just in a bad patch but Pyke was the only player we signed this season that came with universally bad reviews from fans and for now they’ve been absolutely spot on.
Posted by: diehardmariner, October 9, 2023, 11:56am; Reply: 51
The standard was obviously a lot less in the games he played, but in those early pre-season games he definitely looked to have a bit more about him.
The thing I struggle to understand with his lack of movement is that to be anything other than a liability at wing-back, you've got to be able to get up and down the line as an absolute basic. By all accounts he did ok in that role in League One.
Playing up top and as a wing-back are completely different, but I just can't imagine his style would in anyway lend itself to a demanding up-and-down type position.
Posted by: Maringer, October 9, 2023, 12:29pm; Reply: 52
How about Peter Bore?
Looked clueless when played up front or on the wing, but did a good job at full-back/wing-back during his last season with us - he even scored a hat-trick in one game, that I recall!
He was distinctly rapid, though, whereas Pyke doesn't really strike me as a speed machine, though he's not slow.
Pyke might do better when he's got a view of the whole pitch in front of him - i.e. knowing when and where he can run and where the space is. Playing as a forward, often with your back to goal and having to be aware of where space might be found as well as the offside line is an enormously different sort of a role. Good finish from him the other day and, from the video posted, the header did at least force a decent save from their keeper (though I agree he shouldn't have had a chance). Hopefully he'll continue to improve and will come good as a forward.
Posted by: diehardmariner, October 9, 2023, 12:46pm; Reply: 53
I think clueless for Peter Bore is maybe a little harsh. Inconsistent definitely I always thought he just needed good coaching. He seemed to develop his game a bit more under Buckley but Mike Newell killed his development, as he did with a few other youngsters.
His reading of the game in that relegation season looked superb from right-back, although with hindsight I wonder if it was more his pace got him/us out of trouble rather than anything else. He forever seemed to be making last gasp challenges though. The following season he was back more on the wing and didn't seem quite as effective, again inconsistency but I think you make a very good point about having space in front of you. It definitely benefited Bore.
My point regards Pyke was more of his sheer movement, or lack of it, than anything else. As you say, hopefully more to come and he takes the confidence from his goal.
Posted by: paulmblythe, October 9, 2023, 12:52pm; Reply: 54
That’s a shame, and embarrassing. And totally believable.
I saw a couple of dozen idiots at the end of the Crawley game and, despite the fact I was bereft, I could have killed them. Such simpletons.
We all want better, but if we beat Accrington next weekend - which I think we will - the outlook willl be pretty positive.
People need to calm down.
We do indeed have some simpletons who follow us away. This reminds me of after the Southampton Game last season. We where walking back to our hotel past a bus stop where some rather glum looking southampton fans where stood/sat waiting to get home. One gobshite started berating them about how embarrassed they should have been and was goading them into a fight. These people werent causing anyone any trouble and where mostly late 50's to pensioner age and didnt want ant trouble. a few of us pointed out to the idiot that wed had a good night and not to spoil it be being an bottom and apologised on his behalf but he wasnt having any of it.
Of all the forward players out there that could have done an adequate if basic job up front, we get a wing back on the wing and a prayer that we can turn him into a striker? What on earth is that all about?
Posted by: GhostDan, October 9, 2023, 12:58pm; Reply: 56
Of all the forward players out there that could have done an adequate if basic job up front, we get a wing back on the wing and a prayer that we can turn him into a striker? What on earth is that all about?
I certainly wouldn't want to let facts get in the way of another mindless rant but Pyke has played a handful of games at wing-back because both their other fullbacks were injured, I'm not sure why he keeps getting beaten with this stick.
I certainly wouldn't want to let facts get in the way of another mindless rant but Pyke has played a handful of games at wing-back because both their other fullbacks were injured, I'm not sure why he keeps getting beaten with this stick.
Is Efete a left back now?
I don't know but that's another crazy decision if you ask me.
Posted by: paulmblythe, October 9, 2023, 1:04pm; Reply: 58
My first thoughts watching Pyke have been Stefan Payne.
The sheer lack of mobility can often look like he’s lazy, but barely anything he does seems to come off. Hopefully he’s maybe just in a bad patch but Pyke was the only player we signed this season that came with universally bad reviews from fans and for now they’ve been absolutely spot on.
this is something that often riles me. a player can appear to be lazy if he's not careering around the pitch like a headless chicken. If his body wont allow him to do that its not laziness, I often see players who are clearly not match fit being accused of laziness when probably they are busting a gut. Ive had it myself, i gave up playing football at the age of 42 with a knee injury. one of the things that clinched it was i was sick of people shouting at me for being lazy when despite being quiet fit, the legs just wouldn't allow me to track back as quick as the kids half my age that where yelling at me.
this is something that often riles me. a player can appear to be lazy if he's not careering around the pitch like a headless chicken. If his body wont allow him to do that its not laziness, I often see players who are clearly not match fit being accused of laziness when probably they are busting a gut. Ive had it myself, i gave up playing football at the age of 42 with a knee injury. one of the things that clinched it was i was sick of people shouting at me for being lazy when despite being quiet fit, the legs just wouldn't allow me to track back as quick as the kids half my age that where yelling at me.
In the case of Pyke I don't think it's laziness but to me he always seems to be on the back foot, so by the time he has got going it is usually too late. This is not a criticism of the player if he is being played out of position. At the age of 26 he has a total of 11 league goals so it's hardly his fault.
Posted by: SpiritOf98, October 9, 2023, 1:19pm; Reply: 60
I thought Pyke looked good and used his strength well 2nd half, but with Rose gone he seemed to be dropping deeper and his strength was less effective while holding up at the halfway line. Like to see him holding up like that outside the area with others around him for options.
Posted by: Limerick Mariner, October 9, 2023, 1:27pm; Reply: 61
I thought second half there was a moment, perhaps fuelled by confidence from his goal, where Pyke believed in himself and started bullying their defence for a good 10 minutes.
Then as quickly as his confidence grew, it seemed to disappear again and he watched the play go past him.
There's questions about his work-rate and if he's lazy. Having made a point of looking at him on Saturday I'm not sure it's that he's lazy but more he's constantly on his back foot which leaves him too slow to react. Good players react quicker than others, the better players anticipate before anyone else, the best will dictate where the play goes.
Gary Birtles could have been described as lazy by the time he arrived with us. He certainly wasn’t quick when he played for us. His attacking brain was quick though.
With hindsight it’s clear we should have kept Orsi. We could have played 2 up top with Rose a bit deeper than him. With both Wilson and Rose fit he probably wouldn’t have started regularly, but with the injuries we’ve had he would have had plenty of minutes by now.
I expect PH was targeting other forward at the time we let him leave and we missed out on those. But Orsi is a good grafter and can finish, knowing how difficult it’s been to land our forward targets - there’s a bird in the hand lesson for PH there.
Posted by: Ruston AT, October 9, 2023, 1:34pm; Reply: 62
I've been led to understand it wasn't that we let Orsi go but his wife wanted to move back down south.
Posted by: GhostDan, October 9, 2023, 1:39pm; Reply: 63
I've been led to understand it wasn't that we let Orsi go but his wife wanted to move back down south.
We are seemingly football's version of The Good Samaritans when it comes to letting players go for their own ambitions and wellbeing , However admirable , unfortunately with hindsight a few of those over the last couple of years have turned out to hinder us.
We seem to give them a wave off (assuming we can do better? )
But Orsi & Mani could and should have been retained until we had better at least.
Yes I know Mani wanted to play , but I don't think anyone believes he would not have stayed for longer with a couple of years contract and a rise .
We are getting tucked up regularly , the worry for me is the time is ticking on some of our more important players contracts already (Maher , Eisa & Clifton ).
Posted by: Son of Cod, October 9, 2023, 6:57pm; Reply: 67
I thought Pyke looked good and used his strength well 2nd half, but with Rose gone he seemed to be dropping deeper and his strength was less effective while holding up at the halfway line. Like to see him holding up like that outside the area with others around him for options.
Two up would be better with Rose, however, someone should tell Rose to stop his diving. He never gets an FK because it's a pathetic show. He should be fighting for the fall instead of waiting for a slight touch to make him dive, loses the ball to the opposition and breaks down a Grimsby attack. So frustrating. He really does need a word in his ear.