03/01/11 - Sheffield United v. Doncaster Rovers
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SotonBlade
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My Prediction:
O'Driscoll will be in the dugout for this one....the Away dugout!
O'Driscoll will be in the dugout for this one....the Away dugout!
SteelCity Blade
Active Member
Wright
Lowton, Bartley, Ertl, Parrino
Williamson, Montgomery, Quinn
Ward, Evans, Cresswell
Subs: Simonsen, Calve, Nosworthy, Britton, Yeates, Slew, Bogdanovic
Lowton, Bartley, Ertl, Parrino
Williamson, Montgomery, Quinn
Ward, Evans, Cresswell
Subs: Simonsen, Calve, Nosworthy, Britton, Yeates, Slew, Bogdanovic
*On the basis that all of the above players are fit.
*If Wright is out, then Simmo
*If Lowton is out, then Calve
That lineup might look a bit strange but I would go man for man in a 4-3-3 against Donny. The defence ive selected is due to the fact that Nosworthy and Calve wouldn't see a starting place until they can learn how to defend.
beechblade
Active Member
Personally wouldn't go with 4-3-3 the players have generally looked rather clueless at times when we tried this, and I think that comes down to clear defining of positions, with just a day in between the games I don't think it would work as they'd need more time on it. 4-4-2 but how we'll fill it with players out and some with complaints is anyones guess, at the minute.
Lt. J Dangle
Member
Lowton & Britton both have groin problems. Quinn is out for 3 games isn't he?
beechblade
Active Member
Yeah I thought he was out for 3 as well.
Highbury_Blade
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-------------Simmo----------------
Lowton--Parrino--James -- Kozzy
Ward - Monty -Willo -- Yeates
-----Cresswell---Evans
Back line possibly a bit weak, but what can you do?
Lowton--Parrino--James -- Kozzy
Ward - Monty -Willo -- Yeates
-----Cresswell---Evans
Back line possibly a bit weak, but what can you do?
beightonblade
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3 points for the Blades today ....ta very much SOD now fook off ! 
SwissBlade
Well-Known Member
Lets play 3 at the back! We've leaked 11 goals in 3 games so even being experimental with a 3-5-2 would be a low risk!
Bartley is back isn't he?
Flood the midfield and stick 2 strikers up front....
Bartley is back isn't he?
Flood the midfield and stick 2 strikers up front....
LoughboroBlade
Well-Known Member
Assuming 4-4-2, confirmed team is:
Simmo,
Ertl, Parrino, Bartley, Kozzie
Yeates, Monty, Willo, Cresswell
Ward, Evans
Subs: Britton, Bogdanovic, Calve, Long, James, Slew, Harriott.
Simmo,
Ertl, Parrino, Bartley, Kozzie
Yeates, Monty, Willo, Cresswell
Ward, Evans
Subs: Britton, Bogdanovic, Calve, Long, James, Slew, Harriott.
Highbury_Blade
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Go Kozzy!!
Jeez, down again and against 10 men. Sounds like we've been the best team though. Micky is gonna need time and some luck. 
COYRAWW.
---------- Post added at 04:36 PM ---------- Previous post was at 04:31 PM ----------
Ah well roll on the next match. Well done Billy Sharp.
COYRAWW.
---------- Post added at 04:36 PM ---------- Previous post was at 04:31 PM ----------
Ah well roll on the next match. Well done Billy Sharp.
BringBackDeano
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In the relegation zone as it stands
Highbury_Blade
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Cometh the hour, Cometh the man
No not Billy Sharp
Rob Kozluk. You Fucking beauty!
No not Billy Sharp
Rob Kozluk. You Fucking beauty!
- Thread starter
- Admin
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Rob Kozluk. You Fucking beauty!
Capped a good performance today, some great defending and was chucking his body in front of everything in the first half.
On the one hand we shouldn't be going 2 goals down to a 10-man Donny at home, but on the other hand it could be argued that they never let their heads drop, and it shows some character to come back from that and grab a 96th minute equaliser.
Totally agree with that. First goal we fell asleep, again, for the first time in the game. Fair enough.
But yet again the referee comes up with a stupid decision.
Rattly Noise
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Strange how people do that. It's like leaving a film before the twist is revealed. No wonder so many people have such different views on here. Half of them have never seen a whole game.
Deadbat
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United 2 Doncaster 2 - report
Sheffield United managed to finally get something from the Christmas and New Year period with a late, late leveller from an unlikely source at home to Doncaster Rovers. Despite having a man advantage after Dennis Souza was sent off, the visitors struck twice to stun the home side with former Blade Billy Sharp the inevitable nemesis with a quick fire brace. It seemed that it was going to be another home defeat for the Blade but the comeback was on when substitute Daniel Bogdanovic scored from close range with four minutes remaining and then with six of the allotted seven minutes of stoppage time; full back Rob Kozluk smashed home at the Kop end to give United a deserved point!
United began the game with 5 more changes with Parrino, Montgomery, Bartley, Kozluk and Simonsen coming in for Nosworthy, Britton, Calve, Lowton and Wright with a mixture of suspensions and injuries dictating Micky Adams first home selection. United had 4 academy products on the bench with Slew joined by James, Harriott and reserve keeper Long. Rover had former United player and fan Billy Sharp starting up front but left loanee David Healy on the bench.
New manager Adams was given a warm welcome as he ran to the Kop to bow down to the Blades fans before tossing a red and white scarf into the crowd. When the game got underway it became apparent that Kozluk was at left back and Parrino at right back with Ertl partnering Bartley in the centre of defence.
Doncaster began the game better and forced an early corner after indecision in the Blades rearguard. From the delivery, the ball flicked off a combination of Bartley and Hayter and Simonsen had to be smart to get down and turn the ball away. Rovers then forced a free kick which Coppinger had blocked before Sharp had his first chance but was well off target. United had struggled to get into the game and two half chances for Evans were blocked out before Doncaster came again with Oster influential in the early proceedings.
United were getting frustrated with the officials with several decisions seemingly going against the home side and this led to Doncaster having the upper hand. Another harsh free kick saw Rovers with another chance but Oster fired over. Kozluk was booked for a late challenge before Souza was also cautioned for a blatant block on Yeates on half way. Kozluk hurled a long throw in that led to loud appeals for a penalty from those in the South Stand as Cresswell went to ground. Rovers also were unhappy with the officials when Sharp poked in from close range but was flagged offside. Cresswell had a header off target just before the interval in a half that the visitors had perhaps shaded overall for chances and ball possession.
After the interval it was the Blades who began well and Yeates had a decent chance but his effort was saved by Sullivan. Next up United had a clear chance with Ward and Evans teaming up and the latter hitting a powerful shot that was parried by the keeper with no one able to get in on the rebound. The striker then had a great chance when given time and space in the box but opted to head it and sent a tame looping effort into Sullivan’s hands when he had ample opportunity to bring the ball down and do much better. The game was approaching the hour mark when Evans was clattered to the ground by Souza and the Brazilian was rightly given his second yellow card. It was a poor challenge and the defender could have no doubts about either yellow card. United now had a man advantage but whilst Rovers took of Shiels for Chambers they opted to keep two up front and this brave move got its rewards when Rovers stunned the Blades to take the lead. Parrino gave Coppinger too much time and he was able to get away from him and cross unopposed. SHARP took a touch and was unchallenged before rifling into the net.
United tried to get back into the game and brought on Britton for Ward but after having appeals for a penalty themselves turned down for handball, Kozluk’s silly challenge on Coppinger led to a spot kick at the other end. It was perhaps another soft award but once again an unnecessary challenge from a United defender. SHARP took the resultant penalty and fired past Simonsen to double the Rovers lead and leave United staring into the barrel of yet another defeat. Adams replaced Cresswell with Bogdanovic as United tried to get back into the game but more appeals for a penalty were waved away from Bates with two potential handballs deemed as not sufficient for a penalty to be given. Montgomery had an effort on goal saved from Sullivan and then Bartley’s indecision almost gave Hayter a breakaway. The game was being played almost exclusively in the Rovers half but United could not find that elusive goal. Youngster Harriott came on for Williamson and his first touch saw him feed Kozluk who hit a long crossfield into the box. Evans flicked on and BOGDANOVIC managed to force the ball home from close range.
United came again and Montgomery sliced side and then Britton with a rare headed effort forced a scrambled save from Sullivan. The blatant time wasting from Rovers saw referee Bates add on 7 minutes of stoppage time and United continued to pour forward. Yeates should have done better twice, wasting a crossing opportunity and then shooting tamely at Sullivan and it seemed that was that until a final long ball into the box was glanced on by Bartley and from nowhere with the box full of bodies, KOZLUK fired home to the delight of the Kop. There was only seconds played afterwards before the breath taking game was brought to an end by referee Bates.
---------- Post added at 09:21 PM ---------- Previous post was at 09:20 PM ----------
United – It was another so-so performance on the whole with more commitment, passion and determination than they have shown much of the season but then in the last two games versus Swansea and Hull there had been improvements in that area. There was plenty of effort and spirit but not much thought when we had the football really and at times whilst we looked committed we looked a little clueless when we got in the last third. However, we had not done anything too stupid at the back and we were right in the game and looked decent before chasing a game again thanks to poor defending. We were probably slightly inferior to them in the first half and did not create anything really of note but had limited their chances too. We began the second half really well and we seemed in complete control and were starting to create chances. The red card though seemed to fire them up a bit but it was still a surprise when they scored but again it was really basic errors with inability to stop penetration and a cross and then an unmarked natural goal scorer left with time to pick his spot in the box. It seemed before we had chance to get back into the game the penalty came and then we right up against it; again. We kept coming forward but it was hustle and bustle rather than great football. However, getting men forward and balls in the box led to chances and it seems we may have to adapt this more direct approach to be effective.
I think Adams will see that we do not really have the players to play a short, passing game and will bring in more aggressive and physical players in the weeks to come. I do not mind that as we are a soft touch at the moment especially at the back and need to toughen up. We need to ensure we are more determined where it matters at the back to win key headers/tackles and then going forward we need to get the ball in the box and get more bodies in there. I think in the short term the football is going to be more direct as today proved in the final minutes that it is effective and gives defences problems. At least if we get the ball in the box then we will create something just form knock downs and scrambles. However, more than that we need to stop conceding goals. Sure, we have had a few iffy decisions and maybe referees have not helped us but quite simply we do not get the ball in the box to get enough decisions and other teams tend to get beyond us more and turn defenders. We need to make sure we can get other defences going the other way more.
Overall, whilst it was a point gained we always seem to be chasing games and need to ensure we get in front and then have a solid foundation. We are going to have to score 3 or 4 goals to win games at the moment as we are losing so many at the other end. We need to get a few wins together quickly as if we don’t there is a real threat the bottom 4 or 5 will become cut off from the rest of the division if they keep failing to win and as it proved with Wednesday last year this can be very dangerous.
Doncaster – They did not show Brazilian style football and certainly were not superb to watch but they were fairly well organised and kept a good shape and a pattern. They prevented us from having many real chances until we were chasing the game and then they sat back and invited pressure. They were the better side in the first half and although on the back foot in the second half remained positive even after going down to ten men. They kept 2 up front and played 3-4-2 and actually looked better with ten men! The goal was well made and well taken but it was poor defending. The penalty looked soft but they got men in the box and were still attacking even though they led and had ten men. After they went 2-0 up they did retreat a lot and time wasted ridiculously. Sullivan rolled around at least 4 times on the floor when there was nothing wrong with him and several other times they took forever to take throws and free kicks. It was fitting that the referee did play so much stoppage time. Their undoing came when they defended deeper and deeper and pressure came. We had at least 12 or 13 crosses go into the box in the last 5 minutes and stoppage time alone. It was inevitable one or two balls would drop but the height of Bartley and Bogdanovic gave United a different kind of presence in the box and it led to the ball dropping and chances coming. We scored two but could have had more with 3 or 4 other half/decent chances coming.
Overall, Doncaster showed smatterings of decent football but did not create much themselves. They had a few chances but did not really tear us to pieces. It was neat and tidy but nothing remarkable. They have some decent midfielders and I feel they are all comfortable on the ball and can see passes, short and long. Oster is a good footballer still at this level and Coppinger is always a threat, very skilful and is direct, getting crosses and shots in. Sharp was never really in the game and then bang, bang, he has two goals. I was not surprised with the United fans reaction when he was taken off as he seemed more interested in celebrating in front of the United fans than his own fans when he scored as he ran to John Street. He did the same with the Kop in the first half when it was disallowed. Despite him doing pretty much sod all in two lengthy spells with the club and despite him being given countless chances under different managers he seemed to blame everyone but himself for him not doing it in a red and white shirt. Why he has such a problem with the fans is beyond me though? He seemed disgusted with the fans when they booed him off but if you give it out you have to take it. I saw him celebrate in front of the Scunthorpe fans the other day too.
However, for the positives Doncaster showed I feel they are very susceptible at the back and I think teams will always have a chance at this end. Sullivan is nearly done as a keeper and is very slow down to shots and they have little no pace or mobility at the back. I feel if you put them under pressure then they will give you chances and so it proved. Thought it was ironic O’Driscoll complaining that Kozluk should have been sent off for the penalty (said he should have had second yellow) and for us encroaching for a throw in after Sullivan’s disgraceful cheating in the second half and the awful two fouls Sousa commited. Doncaster got what they deserved in the end.
Simonsen 6.5/10 – Had little chance on the first goal and then let another penalty in; at least he went the right way on this one! Made a smart save early on to deny a point blank header but can’t remember many other saves of note he had to make really.
Parrino 6/10 – Started the game fairly well and seemed to be an improvement over Calve positionally and stopped crosses coming in. However, a couple of misplaced balls and passes and his confidence seemed to take a dent. He gave his winger way too much time in the build up to the first goal and after this I felt he was indecisive along with rest of the back four. Probably a slight improvement on what we have had at that position but an area we need to strengthen and quick.
Kozluk 6/10 – Would have probably been a mark lower if not for the goal. Defensively I felt he looked at full stretch a lot and at times he got beaten for skill by his opponent. However, he never hid and kept battling and despite his faults I felt he showed good commitment and fight. Poor challenge for a booking and then a daft challenge for the penalty even if it was a little harsh. Some wild clearances/balls showed his lack of ability. Took his goal really well; showing more composure and calm than midfielders Yeates and Montgomery faced with similar type chances moments earlier. Clearly loves the club as his celebrations showed.
Bartley 7/10 – Thought he did ok for the most part. We certainly looked a bit better at the back and after a hesitant start cannot remember many clear chances they had other than set plays until the stupid errors that led to the 2 goals. A sloppy mistake at the end nearly led to a third Doncaster goal which would have been curtains.
Ertl 6/10 – He did ok but not quite sure whether he is good enough at this level as he lacks pace and athleticism but even more than that ability. He did ok in terms of heading and clearing the ball but at times when the ball was played behind him he seemed to be struggling. He is not really good enough in central midfield and at the back he lacks the pace and concentration to be able to play there. We need another centre back to play alongside Bartley quickly.
Montgomery 6.5/10 – Fought hard and got stuck in but in the first half I felt the Doncaster midfield won too much ball and controlled possession. His passing was wasteful when on the ball. He got much better in the second half, getting in and amongst the Rovers players and giving United more of the ball. He had a few chances on goal but his lack of composure saw wild lashes at the ball.
Williamson 7/10 – Started the game ok and showed a few nice touches with his ability to get up and down and also to try and make a forward pass. Do like the way he tries to get on the ball and make things happen. Seems far more composed than most of the rest of our midfielders. However, at times the going seemed a bit tough for him and he seemed a bit behind the pace; understandable considering the layoff he has had. He will be a really important player for us in the second half of the season though.
Yeates 5/10 – Thought he was really poor today. He carried on where he left off in recent home games being wasteful in possession and not getting crosses/balls in. He seemed to drift out of the game and I also saw him shirk a few 50/50 challenges which was disappointing. He needs to do more for me.
Cresswell 6/10 – Not really in the game much as an attacking force but not doubting he put lots of effort in. Played out wide left and other than a few bits and pieces I cannot remember much of note that he did certainly in an attacking sense. Actually did some decent defensive work in the first half when Doncaster were putting us under pressure and playing on Kozluk. Heard he may have dislocated his shoulder so he will be out for a while now if that is the case.
Evans 7/10 – He worked hard and tried to get on the end of things but in the first half he had little service and was forced to feed off scraps. In the second half he was more involved, with a shot on target, drawing the red card and generally getting in and amongst the defenders. He looked more of a threat but with no real crosses of note coming in from wide and also not much of a partner it must have been hard for him.
Ward 5/10 – Like Yeates I do not think he offered that much today and felt he was not much of a threat. He does not seem to have that same burst of pace and forward thinking of 12-18 months ago and often comes inside or wants to play the ball back rather than pushing the ball in front of him and getting at defenders as he used to do.
Subs –
Britton – Not surprised he was dropped as he has been poor in recent weeks but then anyone of the rest could have been dropped too I suppose. Guess it is Adams’ way of showing he wants real fighters and that is no slight on Britton but he is a ball player predominantly and not someone who will win tackles and harry.
Bogdanovic – Came on and looked lively. Surprised he has not been given a start in recent week as Ward has not really done it but then I suppose you could say he does not offer much mobility nor physical threat.
Harriott – Seen him a couple of times for the Academy and looked pretty decent; composed on the ball and always wanting it. Surprised he was been put into the matchday squad already as he has barely played for the reserves is only 17 having just joined the club from Luton’s youth set up in the summer I believe. Looks like the coaching staff in the club rate him though.
Officials – Tony Bates had a strange game. Both sets of fans will probably be unhappy with his decisions. I felt in the first half he gave us very little with most 50/50’s going to Doncaster, including quite a few dangerous free kicks been given on the edge of our box that could have been costly. He rightly booked Kozluk and then Sousa for bad fouls in the first half. In the second half he really had no option but to send Sousa off for a late foul. Doncaster’s players seemed to suggest Evans had made a lot of it and that United players were trying to get him sent off but I really fail to see what else he could do? It was high and late and allied to the awful cynical foul in the first half it was two of the most obvious yellow cards you could wish to see. After this he gave a very soft penalty when there was contact but it appeared minimal. After this United had 2 or 3 appeals for a penalty of their own but it was hard to tell if any of them were handballs and many of them did seemed to be fired at the man. However, after the soft award of the spot kick then you could kind of see United’s players/fans frustration especially as a very similar offence on Cresswell was not given in the first half. After the penalty he seemed to lose the plot a bit and was letting quite a lot of obvious things go. He did not seem to penalise Rovers for their blatant time wasting at all; at least with the award of a yellow card; which Sullivan should have had (knew he would not have to leave the field being the keeper) but at least he did add on a proper amount of time at the close. I do not see how Doncaster can have any complaints as there was 6 substitutions, 3 goals and a long stoppage for Cresswell added onto the time wasting Rovers had indulged in.
Crowd – Thought they did their best to get behind United and gave Adams a decent welcome but they became frustrated with the team and the game when Rovers went in front. It seemed everything was against United with every decision and piece of bad luck going against them but the crowd did stay with it and you felt if we got one back then we could get another and so it proved.
---
Sheffield United managed to finally get something from the Christmas and New Year period with a late, late leveller from an unlikely source at home to Doncaster Rovers. Despite having a man advantage after Dennis Souza was sent off, the visitors struck twice to stun the home side with former Blade Billy Sharp the inevitable nemesis with a quick fire brace. It seemed that it was going to be another home defeat for the Blade but the comeback was on when substitute Daniel Bogdanovic scored from close range with four minutes remaining and then with six of the allotted seven minutes of stoppage time; full back Rob Kozluk smashed home at the Kop end to give United a deserved point!
United began the game with 5 more changes with Parrino, Montgomery, Bartley, Kozluk and Simonsen coming in for Nosworthy, Britton, Calve, Lowton and Wright with a mixture of suspensions and injuries dictating Micky Adams first home selection. United had 4 academy products on the bench with Slew joined by James, Harriott and reserve keeper Long. Rover had former United player and fan Billy Sharp starting up front but left loanee David Healy on the bench.
New manager Adams was given a warm welcome as he ran to the Kop to bow down to the Blades fans before tossing a red and white scarf into the crowd. When the game got underway it became apparent that Kozluk was at left back and Parrino at right back with Ertl partnering Bartley in the centre of defence.
Doncaster began the game better and forced an early corner after indecision in the Blades rearguard. From the delivery, the ball flicked off a combination of Bartley and Hayter and Simonsen had to be smart to get down and turn the ball away. Rovers then forced a free kick which Coppinger had blocked before Sharp had his first chance but was well off target. United had struggled to get into the game and two half chances for Evans were blocked out before Doncaster came again with Oster influential in the early proceedings.
United were getting frustrated with the officials with several decisions seemingly going against the home side and this led to Doncaster having the upper hand. Another harsh free kick saw Rovers with another chance but Oster fired over. Kozluk was booked for a late challenge before Souza was also cautioned for a blatant block on Yeates on half way. Kozluk hurled a long throw in that led to loud appeals for a penalty from those in the South Stand as Cresswell went to ground. Rovers also were unhappy with the officials when Sharp poked in from close range but was flagged offside. Cresswell had a header off target just before the interval in a half that the visitors had perhaps shaded overall for chances and ball possession.
After the interval it was the Blades who began well and Yeates had a decent chance but his effort was saved by Sullivan. Next up United had a clear chance with Ward and Evans teaming up and the latter hitting a powerful shot that was parried by the keeper with no one able to get in on the rebound. The striker then had a great chance when given time and space in the box but opted to head it and sent a tame looping effort into Sullivan’s hands when he had ample opportunity to bring the ball down and do much better. The game was approaching the hour mark when Evans was clattered to the ground by Souza and the Brazilian was rightly given his second yellow card. It was a poor challenge and the defender could have no doubts about either yellow card. United now had a man advantage but whilst Rovers took of Shiels for Chambers they opted to keep two up front and this brave move got its rewards when Rovers stunned the Blades to take the lead. Parrino gave Coppinger too much time and he was able to get away from him and cross unopposed. SHARP took a touch and was unchallenged before rifling into the net.
United tried to get back into the game and brought on Britton for Ward but after having appeals for a penalty themselves turned down for handball, Kozluk’s silly challenge on Coppinger led to a spot kick at the other end. It was perhaps another soft award but once again an unnecessary challenge from a United defender. SHARP took the resultant penalty and fired past Simonsen to double the Rovers lead and leave United staring into the barrel of yet another defeat. Adams replaced Cresswell with Bogdanovic as United tried to get back into the game but more appeals for a penalty were waved away from Bates with two potential handballs deemed as not sufficient for a penalty to be given. Montgomery had an effort on goal saved from Sullivan and then Bartley’s indecision almost gave Hayter a breakaway. The game was being played almost exclusively in the Rovers half but United could not find that elusive goal. Youngster Harriott came on for Williamson and his first touch saw him feed Kozluk who hit a long crossfield into the box. Evans flicked on and BOGDANOVIC managed to force the ball home from close range.
United came again and Montgomery sliced side and then Britton with a rare headed effort forced a scrambled save from Sullivan. The blatant time wasting from Rovers saw referee Bates add on 7 minutes of stoppage time and United continued to pour forward. Yeates should have done better twice, wasting a crossing opportunity and then shooting tamely at Sullivan and it seemed that was that until a final long ball into the box was glanced on by Bartley and from nowhere with the box full of bodies, KOZLUK fired home to the delight of the Kop. There was only seconds played afterwards before the breath taking game was brought to an end by referee Bates.
---------- Post added at 09:21 PM ---------- Previous post was at 09:20 PM ----------
United – It was another so-so performance on the whole with more commitment, passion and determination than they have shown much of the season but then in the last two games versus Swansea and Hull there had been improvements in that area. There was plenty of effort and spirit but not much thought when we had the football really and at times whilst we looked committed we looked a little clueless when we got in the last third. However, we had not done anything too stupid at the back and we were right in the game and looked decent before chasing a game again thanks to poor defending. We were probably slightly inferior to them in the first half and did not create anything really of note but had limited their chances too. We began the second half really well and we seemed in complete control and were starting to create chances. The red card though seemed to fire them up a bit but it was still a surprise when they scored but again it was really basic errors with inability to stop penetration and a cross and then an unmarked natural goal scorer left with time to pick his spot in the box. It seemed before we had chance to get back into the game the penalty came and then we right up against it; again. We kept coming forward but it was hustle and bustle rather than great football. However, getting men forward and balls in the box led to chances and it seems we may have to adapt this more direct approach to be effective.
I think Adams will see that we do not really have the players to play a short, passing game and will bring in more aggressive and physical players in the weeks to come. I do not mind that as we are a soft touch at the moment especially at the back and need to toughen up. We need to ensure we are more determined where it matters at the back to win key headers/tackles and then going forward we need to get the ball in the box and get more bodies in there. I think in the short term the football is going to be more direct as today proved in the final minutes that it is effective and gives defences problems. At least if we get the ball in the box then we will create something just form knock downs and scrambles. However, more than that we need to stop conceding goals. Sure, we have had a few iffy decisions and maybe referees have not helped us but quite simply we do not get the ball in the box to get enough decisions and other teams tend to get beyond us more and turn defenders. We need to make sure we can get other defences going the other way more.
Overall, whilst it was a point gained we always seem to be chasing games and need to ensure we get in front and then have a solid foundation. We are going to have to score 3 or 4 goals to win games at the moment as we are losing so many at the other end. We need to get a few wins together quickly as if we don’t there is a real threat the bottom 4 or 5 will become cut off from the rest of the division if they keep failing to win and as it proved with Wednesday last year this can be very dangerous.
Doncaster – They did not show Brazilian style football and certainly were not superb to watch but they were fairly well organised and kept a good shape and a pattern. They prevented us from having many real chances until we were chasing the game and then they sat back and invited pressure. They were the better side in the first half and although on the back foot in the second half remained positive even after going down to ten men. They kept 2 up front and played 3-4-2 and actually looked better with ten men! The goal was well made and well taken but it was poor defending. The penalty looked soft but they got men in the box and were still attacking even though they led and had ten men. After they went 2-0 up they did retreat a lot and time wasted ridiculously. Sullivan rolled around at least 4 times on the floor when there was nothing wrong with him and several other times they took forever to take throws and free kicks. It was fitting that the referee did play so much stoppage time. Their undoing came when they defended deeper and deeper and pressure came. We had at least 12 or 13 crosses go into the box in the last 5 minutes and stoppage time alone. It was inevitable one or two balls would drop but the height of Bartley and Bogdanovic gave United a different kind of presence in the box and it led to the ball dropping and chances coming. We scored two but could have had more with 3 or 4 other half/decent chances coming.
Overall, Doncaster showed smatterings of decent football but did not create much themselves. They had a few chances but did not really tear us to pieces. It was neat and tidy but nothing remarkable. They have some decent midfielders and I feel they are all comfortable on the ball and can see passes, short and long. Oster is a good footballer still at this level and Coppinger is always a threat, very skilful and is direct, getting crosses and shots in. Sharp was never really in the game and then bang, bang, he has two goals. I was not surprised with the United fans reaction when he was taken off as he seemed more interested in celebrating in front of the United fans than his own fans when he scored as he ran to John Street. He did the same with the Kop in the first half when it was disallowed. Despite him doing pretty much sod all in two lengthy spells with the club and despite him being given countless chances under different managers he seemed to blame everyone but himself for him not doing it in a red and white shirt. Why he has such a problem with the fans is beyond me though? He seemed disgusted with the fans when they booed him off but if you give it out you have to take it. I saw him celebrate in front of the Scunthorpe fans the other day too.
However, for the positives Doncaster showed I feel they are very susceptible at the back and I think teams will always have a chance at this end. Sullivan is nearly done as a keeper and is very slow down to shots and they have little no pace or mobility at the back. I feel if you put them under pressure then they will give you chances and so it proved. Thought it was ironic O’Driscoll complaining that Kozluk should have been sent off for the penalty (said he should have had second yellow) and for us encroaching for a throw in after Sullivan’s disgraceful cheating in the second half and the awful two fouls Sousa commited. Doncaster got what they deserved in the end.
Simonsen 6.5/10 – Had little chance on the first goal and then let another penalty in; at least he went the right way on this one! Made a smart save early on to deny a point blank header but can’t remember many other saves of note he had to make really.
Parrino 6/10 – Started the game fairly well and seemed to be an improvement over Calve positionally and stopped crosses coming in. However, a couple of misplaced balls and passes and his confidence seemed to take a dent. He gave his winger way too much time in the build up to the first goal and after this I felt he was indecisive along with rest of the back four. Probably a slight improvement on what we have had at that position but an area we need to strengthen and quick.
Kozluk 6/10 – Would have probably been a mark lower if not for the goal. Defensively I felt he looked at full stretch a lot and at times he got beaten for skill by his opponent. However, he never hid and kept battling and despite his faults I felt he showed good commitment and fight. Poor challenge for a booking and then a daft challenge for the penalty even if it was a little harsh. Some wild clearances/balls showed his lack of ability. Took his goal really well; showing more composure and calm than midfielders Yeates and Montgomery faced with similar type chances moments earlier. Clearly loves the club as his celebrations showed.
Bartley 7/10 – Thought he did ok for the most part. We certainly looked a bit better at the back and after a hesitant start cannot remember many clear chances they had other than set plays until the stupid errors that led to the 2 goals. A sloppy mistake at the end nearly led to a third Doncaster goal which would have been curtains.
Ertl 6/10 – He did ok but not quite sure whether he is good enough at this level as he lacks pace and athleticism but even more than that ability. He did ok in terms of heading and clearing the ball but at times when the ball was played behind him he seemed to be struggling. He is not really good enough in central midfield and at the back he lacks the pace and concentration to be able to play there. We need another centre back to play alongside Bartley quickly.
Montgomery 6.5/10 – Fought hard and got stuck in but in the first half I felt the Doncaster midfield won too much ball and controlled possession. His passing was wasteful when on the ball. He got much better in the second half, getting in and amongst the Rovers players and giving United more of the ball. He had a few chances on goal but his lack of composure saw wild lashes at the ball.
Williamson 7/10 – Started the game ok and showed a few nice touches with his ability to get up and down and also to try and make a forward pass. Do like the way he tries to get on the ball and make things happen. Seems far more composed than most of the rest of our midfielders. However, at times the going seemed a bit tough for him and he seemed a bit behind the pace; understandable considering the layoff he has had. He will be a really important player for us in the second half of the season though.
Yeates 5/10 – Thought he was really poor today. He carried on where he left off in recent home games being wasteful in possession and not getting crosses/balls in. He seemed to drift out of the game and I also saw him shirk a few 50/50 challenges which was disappointing. He needs to do more for me.
Cresswell 6/10 – Not really in the game much as an attacking force but not doubting he put lots of effort in. Played out wide left and other than a few bits and pieces I cannot remember much of note that he did certainly in an attacking sense. Actually did some decent defensive work in the first half when Doncaster were putting us under pressure and playing on Kozluk. Heard he may have dislocated his shoulder so he will be out for a while now if that is the case.
Evans 7/10 – He worked hard and tried to get on the end of things but in the first half he had little service and was forced to feed off scraps. In the second half he was more involved, with a shot on target, drawing the red card and generally getting in and amongst the defenders. He looked more of a threat but with no real crosses of note coming in from wide and also not much of a partner it must have been hard for him.
Ward 5/10 – Like Yeates I do not think he offered that much today and felt he was not much of a threat. He does not seem to have that same burst of pace and forward thinking of 12-18 months ago and often comes inside or wants to play the ball back rather than pushing the ball in front of him and getting at defenders as he used to do.
Subs –
Britton – Not surprised he was dropped as he has been poor in recent weeks but then anyone of the rest could have been dropped too I suppose. Guess it is Adams’ way of showing he wants real fighters and that is no slight on Britton but he is a ball player predominantly and not someone who will win tackles and harry.
Bogdanovic – Came on and looked lively. Surprised he has not been given a start in recent week as Ward has not really done it but then I suppose you could say he does not offer much mobility nor physical threat.
Harriott – Seen him a couple of times for the Academy and looked pretty decent; composed on the ball and always wanting it. Surprised he was been put into the matchday squad already as he has barely played for the reserves is only 17 having just joined the club from Luton’s youth set up in the summer I believe. Looks like the coaching staff in the club rate him though.
Officials – Tony Bates had a strange game. Both sets of fans will probably be unhappy with his decisions. I felt in the first half he gave us very little with most 50/50’s going to Doncaster, including quite a few dangerous free kicks been given on the edge of our box that could have been costly. He rightly booked Kozluk and then Sousa for bad fouls in the first half. In the second half he really had no option but to send Sousa off for a late foul. Doncaster’s players seemed to suggest Evans had made a lot of it and that United players were trying to get him sent off but I really fail to see what else he could do? It was high and late and allied to the awful cynical foul in the first half it was two of the most obvious yellow cards you could wish to see. After this he gave a very soft penalty when there was contact but it appeared minimal. After this United had 2 or 3 appeals for a penalty of their own but it was hard to tell if any of them were handballs and many of them did seemed to be fired at the man. However, after the soft award of the spot kick then you could kind of see United’s players/fans frustration especially as a very similar offence on Cresswell was not given in the first half. After the penalty he seemed to lose the plot a bit and was letting quite a lot of obvious things go. He did not seem to penalise Rovers for their blatant time wasting at all; at least with the award of a yellow card; which Sullivan should have had (knew he would not have to leave the field being the keeper) but at least he did add on a proper amount of time at the close. I do not see how Doncaster can have any complaints as there was 6 substitutions, 3 goals and a long stoppage for Cresswell added onto the time wasting Rovers had indulged in.
Crowd – Thought they did their best to get behind United and gave Adams a decent welcome but they became frustrated with the team and the game when Rovers went in front. It seemed everything was against United with every decision and piece of bad luck going against them but the crowd did stay with it and you felt if we got one back then we could get another and so it proved.
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Rudders
Enjoining agressivity
Thanks for the comprehensive report. I get the impression Adams is gradually coming to terms with this shambles of a squad.
Wards
Well-Known Member
Just a note, Britton was on the bench due to an injury he got at Burnley. Incidentally he was one of our better players that game and sure Adams would've kept him in had be been fully fit.
Deadbat
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Britton
If he was injured why did he come on. That's not a dig by the way but surely if he was not fit he should not be in the 16; or if he was fit he would have started as you say?
Just seemed like he had been dropped to me. Ditto for Calve. I assume Nosworthy and Lowton were both injured?
If he was injured why did he come on. That's not a dig by the way but surely if he was not fit he should not be in the 16; or if he was fit he would have started as you say?
Just seemed like he had been dropped to me. Ditto for Calve. I assume Nosworthy and Lowton were both injured?
Wards
Well-Known Member
I assume he wasn't fit enough to last more than 20 odd minutes but Adams did say after Saturday he'd be struggling to make today due to a groin strain.
Oh and yes, Nos and Lowton both injured - ankle and groin respectively.
Oh and yes, Nos and Lowton both injured - ankle and groin respectively.
Stafford Blade
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I dread to think what Kozluk's mark would have been if it wasn't for a 96th minute equaliser!!
super_pig
Well-Known Member
i must watch a different game to some of you guys.. thought the fullbacks did well.. bartley seven??.. monty 6.5?? .. cresswell was all over the place
Stafford Blade
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the position of your seat at the lane can have a huge effect on how you see the game. some of the seats on the kop you might as well be at home listening to the radio
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