United 4 Exeter 4 - report

[Deadbat]

A remarkable game at Bramall Lane saw the home side fight back from a two goal deficit to lead and then give away two further advantages to somehow draw 4-4 with visiting Exeter City in a game littered with goals, chances and mistakes. It was a game that saw awful defending from both sides but one that United really ought to have had in the bag but yet again woeful goalkeeping and defending saw horrendous goals given away and another 2 points were simply chucked away.

The Blades began with an unchanged side and kept faith with 17 year old goalkeeper George Long whilst the visiting Grecians also had an unchanged side after their own recent winning run.

The game began in scrappy fashion but there were few chances at either end until a half chance for the visitors saw Archibald-Henville head over. United had a few moves of note and were keeping the ball well but hesitancy at the back almost saw a chance for Nardiello. United did not heed the warning and a woeful mistake saw Exeter take the lead. The ball was played forward and you would expect Long to come and deal with it but as Williams tried to hold off the attacker neither took control and NARDIELLO nipped in to round the young keeper and score easily. It was horrendous defending and a real stunner for the home side. Clarke tried to respond but shot wide and then after good work from McDonald and Phillips the ball was shepherded clear. Dunne’s shot was saved at the second attempt from Long and then unbelievably the away side went two goals up after a clever interchange of passes the ball was transferred to NOBLE who hit a shot from range. The shot took a slight deflection but it nestled into the top corner and it was 2-0 to Exeter.

United were all at sea and Sercombe almost made it three but Long saved scurrying across his goal and the crowd were starting to become impatient. Clarke nearly got in and then Phillips had a shot blocked as United suddenly finally found some urgency. The same man had a shot turned round the post from Krysiak and then controversy reigned when Quinn appeared to be butted by Golbourne off the ball but the referee did not see it and did not even caution the Exeter man. With half time approaching United finally got back into the game as Williams cross was fired goalwards from PHILLIPS and the ball took a touch off Archibald Henville and into the corner. United then could have been level not long after as Lowton’s dangerous cross found Cresswell but his headed effort was weak and easily saved from Krysiak.

After the break Cresswell was involved again but his header from Quinn’s free kick was over the top and then Clarke headed over after more good work from Phillips from the right hand side. United were now well on top and Krysiak made two excellent saves. Firstly Coles deflected the ball towards his own goal and he turned it away and then from a Collins downward header from the resultant corner he again dives low to his right to push it away. Evans came on for Cresswell and instantly was involved in a controversial incident. He got away from Archibald Henville who appeared to slip but he brought the United man down. It was touch and go whether it was inside or outside the box but the referee decided it was just outside the area. He also felt it was not a direct goalscoring opportunity and only gave the Exeter man a yellow card. Evans free kick was deflected wide and then soon after Lowton headed wide as United looked to turn the screw. The equaliser looked like it was coming and so it proved as a lovely move involving Phillips and then Williams saw the ball come over and CLARKE converted with an instinctive first time finish under the keeper. It had been coming and United continued to attack and it was not long before they were ahead. It came from a shot from Evans that was deflected wide for a corner and from the resultant spot kick; Maguire headed down and LOWTON managed to knock the ball home from close range. The comeback was complete it seemed and United now seemed in complete control.

Evans shot just wide and then Doyle and Porter came on for McDonald and Clarke. Exeter had offered very little in the second half but suddenly they had a leveller out of the blue. United actually had a corner but they tossed away possession and from a cross from the left the ball bounced invitingly into the path of O’FLYNN whose header wrong footed Long. There was a suspicion of offside but it was really poor defending from United again who let a cross come in all too easily and then saw two headers go in (akin to the first goal against Wednesday) before the ball went into the net.

It was a woeful goal to concede and it seemed as if United had thrown away a game again but they were undeterred and attacked again and went at Exeter. Maguire’s diagonal cross was knocked down by Evans and PHILLIPS drilled the ball into the corner and United were back ahead 4-3!

It seemed as if that would be that but unbelievably there was another goal in a matter of seconds. Straight from the kick off, Maguire dithered and then long dithered and DUNNE nipped in and from the angle clipped in a tidy finish to stun the Blades again. 4-4. Unbelievable. The referee accrued there would be another 4 minutes of stoppage time and it was difficult to know which way it may go. United looked like scoring every time they attacked but equally looked like conceding every time Exeter attacked. In the end the final whistle went with no further goals. An absorbing contest which the visitors would say they deserved a point for scoring four goals on the road. United really ought to have won the game but more hopeless defending and indiscipline meant they tossed away another winning position. Surely now manager Wilson has to address the goalkeeping and defensive positions that are chucking away goals week after week and threatening to undermine any kind of chance the Blades have at a top 6 position?

United – Where do I start? Came out lackadaisically at the off and seemed slow to the ball and lost most of the major battles early on. Exeter seemed quicker and more determined and we seemed to think we could coast it but they got amongst us and made us turn it over. We seemed so slow and whilst we played some nice tippy-tippy football I always thought we looked hesitant at the back. The first goal was dreadful with Williams at fault to some degree but Long mainly in the wrong (keeper has to come and get that or at least call and make a decision). The second goal was well made but again we were so slow to close down, akin to the MK Dons goal in the week and it seemed like we had blown it within half an hour. We finally started to play and show some interest for the final 15 minutes of the half and got a vital goal on the break. After the interval we looked well on top and the 2nd and 3rd goals were not a surprise. After this we needed a leader to take the game by the scruff of the neck and someone show some leadership but we seemed to panic (yet again) and it was not a major surprise when they scored even if it was their first attack of the second half; as we had started to give the ball away and defend deeper and deeper. We then scored again and you thought that was it but unbelievably we gave away another schoolboy goal. After this we could have lost another goal as easily as scored another.

United are clearly not good enough to be a promotion side or even be a consistent top 4-6 side at this level on current performances. Our defending in short; is diabolical. Simonsen was not good enough. Long is now clearly not good enough. So we need a new experienced keeper and fast. Both have made mistakes but Long today looked woefully out of his depth. However, in front of him we have the pedestrian and error ridden Collins who cannot command nor help his fellow lesser experienced defenders and then Maguire who today looked awful. We do not have a decent keeper nor centre half. The two centre backs have been lauded a lot of the season but today proved they are simply not god enough (neither of them). Exeter had barely scored a goal all season away from home and today they scored 4 and could have had more! Maguire really looked like a youth team player in the first team and is woefully inconsistent at the moment (played well on Tuesday). We desperately need a leader at the back and with Morgan probably some time away we may need to sign someone here too. These positions are costing us point and if we continue with the Simonsen/Long, Maguire/Collins axis we will finish middle of the league. That is a fact I am afraid. We really invite pressure, don’t get tight on men and invite shots/crosses. Lowton has been equally poor defensively and even Williams was really abject today (at least defensively although both did well going forward, especially second half). We do not have one defender who can simply defend. It was embarrassing watching ordinary (no offence to Exeter) players simply tear us to pieces when they go at us. We could have scored 10 and I felt we may have let 10 in. It was that bad.

Going forward we looked good but most of the good things came from Phillips and Clarke who look a notch above. Phillips was excellent today and showed good skill, direct running and really went at his opponent. Clarke was so –so first half but came good second half with clever interchange and some smart play off the ball. Cresswell was poor; Evans slightly better and Quinn was up and down. As for the midfield pairing, McDonald has drawn my ire in recent weeks but he was superb today, with a range of passing and control that was above and beyond what you would see at this level normally. He showed some strength and aggression too and I felt he was the best midfielder on the pitch. Montgomery alongside him was the opposite. Won a few tackles and blocks but his passing, control, vision and awareness was out of the bottom drawer. He could not do anything right in the main (although played one or two nice balls wide in the second half) and some of his telegraphed balls were frightening. He looked like he was not good enough against very ordinary league one opponents and that is worrying. The crowd were remarkably patient with him but even they lost it after he chucked away 3 or 4 aimless balls in the second half.

Overall, United were decent going forward (finally after they were 2-0 down) and looked like we could score whenever we attacked but at the back we were frightening. It was dreadful. They was no understanding, no organisation and no command at all. We really look an odd side at the moment who looks like they can score and create but what worries me is that the loan players are our biggest assets and when they go back we will be in trouble as the defence is that bad. I would love us to sign two new centre backs and a new goalkeeper but probably only one out of the 3 new signings we need will be made. We will probably have to hope it is a keeper at least and then inspire some confidence into the centre backs. In the week I said we lacked fitness and ability to keep the ball but I would throw in today the total lack of leadership. For us to come back and go 3-2, and then 4-3 up and never look like winning the game shows we do not have anyone in the side that can get their foot in and control things or at least failing that talk and tell people where to go and organise a semblance of a unit. When they scored the 4th it looked like they were facing a side on Graves Park on Sunday mornings. We really were all over the place and it was that bad it was embarrassing.

Exeter – Credit to them. They scored 4 goals away from home, attacked us and never sat back all game save for a spell after half time. They scored some decent goals (granted many given on a plate) but played some decent football and closed us down all over the field. They had some sharp attackers like Nardiello and played some neat moves. After we made it 1-2 they did panic and you felt we would score more goals as it proved. They had the run of the decisions with the Quinn head butt and then the pull down of Evans. They could easily have had 2 red cards given against them but buoyed by these decisions they fought back twice from going behind and credit to them for their spirit and fight. We will play far worse teams this year (as we have proved) and they are confident at the moment and feel they can get results wherever and whoever they play as proved today. They maybe would feel disappointed to throw away a 2 goal lead but when they have come back twice in the last 10 minutes it will still almost feel like a win.

 

[Deadbat]

Long 3/10 – He had a nightmare. He was at fault for the first goal making an almighty rick as he hesitated, then came, then missed everything and just basically did nothing to command the situation despite having everything in front of him and with Williams trying to shield the ball let Nardiello walk the ball round him and into an empty net. After this he really looked uncertain and dithered on anything that came near him. The second goal took a slight deflection and he had little chance but there were countless other times when he should have come out and claimed the ball but stayed on his line or got into bad positions. The third goal was poor defending all around but Long got into a bad position a la Simonsen; neither coming for the cross nor getting into position to save the header. The fourth saw Maguire get in a bad position and Long was exposed and the ball was sent beyond him. Another goal the keeper won’t be happy with. He had a terrible game and although he was left exposed by bad defending, he really did not cover himself in glory. He is clearly not ready/nor good enough to be a first team regular yet and with Simonsen’s awful form we have to sign an experienced replacement and fast. Neither of our keepers are good enough. Simonsen will probably be brought back in next week unless he signs a replacement this week.

Lowton 6/10 – A real mixed bag. Going forward he was excellent, linking well with Phillips and looking a real threat. He got some good crosses in, linked well and looked a competent player. Scored a well taken goal that put us 3-2 in front and looked to take the game to the opposition. Defensively he was really poor and left acres of space as well as being too slow to react to any danger. Numerous attacks came down his side and he seems too slow and way too lackadaisical to react to danger. It seems as if teams know he is so poor defensively and have now seemed to play on his weaknesses. He needs to start showing he can play both ways or we will continue to give up chances and goals.

Williams 5/10 – Thought he had an awful first half; his worst 45 minutes in a red and white shirt. He was all over the place and at blame a little for the first goal as he did not block his man and maybe should have put his foot through it. He made a number of other errors and generally seemed not at the races. He improved a great deal after the break and made the second goal, was first to the ball and sharper in all facets of the game. He still gave is winger too much time but he at least started to won some tackles and made his man go the other way. Like most of his fellow defenders though he must realise he has to be tighter and concentrate more.

Maguire 4/10 – As you expect of a youngster he is very inconsistent. He was excellent in the week after making a poor mistake at Orient the previous game but today he was pretty dire. Sure he made the 4th with his predictable diagonal ball but his basic defending was atrocious. He lost quite a few headers/clearances but more than this he was so hesitant with most balls played in his general direction. On the second he played another long ball and then was badly out of position when they scored. He then was out of position again when they scored the 3rd and was at fault in some way for the 4th for awful positioning and inability to track the man. He is some way off being a solid player, even at this level and seems to believe his own hype at times. He has failed most of the season to put back to back solid defensive games together and his lack of pace, positional awareness and inability to do the basics means he is some way short of even being a solid league one defender. He does not look like he is going to the top player everyone thought at the moment which saddens me and at the moment I would take just average but he is struggling to be even that at the moment.

Collins 5/10 – Like Maguire he looked all at sea at times and you felt every time Exeter attacked there could be a goal. He did not really command and lost a number of headers to opponents much smaller. Sure he did not make any glaring errors that led to goals but he still was pretty poor most of the game. He was perennially back tracking and when the ball came to him all he could do was just kick it out. Why he cannot kick it out further up the field rather than kick it out at a 90 degrees angle is beyond me? Why he cannot kick it out further up the field or pull clearances further I do not know. Maybe he is not capable or maybe he is just not good enough.

McDonald 7.5/10 – United’s best player and the only one who looked like keeping the ball. He got it down and passed it short and long. Showed better strength today and overall looked the most capable player on either side of making a pass; to lead to a chance or goal. He really did stand out and showed his touch, vision and ability to switch the play left to right and vice versa. Was tiring and rightly came off but he has set his standard today after some so-so weeks. Needs to play like that every week.

Montgomery 4/10 – Truly dire. Scrapped and dogged; winning a tackle here and there but overall his contribution was really poor. His passing was dreadful. He must have given away at least 5 or 6 awful telegraphed passes when a simple ball was on and seemed incapable of finding a red and white shirt for much of the game. Against a team that is in the lower reaches of this division; you would expect senior players to excel and stand out. Montgomery unfortunately stood out but for the wrong reasons. Also, as a captain and experienced leader I would expect him to lead and get us disciplined and organised. For much of the last 10 minutes we were all over the place and had no discipline or shape whatsoever. As captain he has to do more to get the team disciplined and organised and he seemed to say nothing and the team looked completely rudderless.

Quinn 6/10 – Another mixed performance. Some nice touches, passes and driven balls but some awful giveaways and moments where he basically coasted through the match. At times his poor touch and over play often gave the ball away and left them on the attack but at others his forward thinking and clever runs gave us the impetus. He is nowhere near the standard he set earlier in the season and whilst still looks a class above at times; this positive play is all too infrequent.

Phillips 7.5/10 – Thought he was out best attacking player and whilst at times he showed the typical winger trait of having his head down and not looking up; he caused problems all afternoon. Scored two goals; albeit the first was deflected and involved in most of our better moves all game. He attacked his full back all game and showed pace, skill and trickery and linked well with his teammates. Should have been the match winner expect for more dreadful defending. He will almost certainly be recalled such is his form where he is contributing to goals and chances week in, week out.

Cresswell 5/10 – Thought he was a passenger much of the first half and merely tried in vain to win free kicks by either going to ground or making out he was held. He seems so slow these days and well off the pace. He missed a bad chance just before he break but did little else all game and his main ploy seemed to be playing for fouls which the referee saw through rather easily. Subbed (again) and to me he is a player that is right on the final stages of his career and is treading water every single week.

Clarke 7/10 – Thought like most of his teammates he was poor first half and slow to the ball and not in the game. He improved massively after the break, becoming more determined, quicker to it and generally woke up. Scored a well taken equaliser and was involved in many of our better attacks. Linked well and showed his movement and creativity. He will be missed when he returns to Blackpool in a few weeks.

Subs –

Evans – Came on and made the fourth goal with a nice knock down. Not quite sure why he is not starting at the moment as Cresswell/Porter are not good enough and Clarke needs a partner that will link with him and contribute. When he comes on he seems to offer more than the two aforementioned. Maybe he does not run around like a nutter but when the ball is played into him he generally holds it up and brings others into play. He surely has to start in weeks to come. He is not great but is better than anything else we have.

Doyle – Brought on to try and protect the lead. We let in 2 goals after he came on! No real blame to him but he does not exactly do his job of midfield/defensive enforcer/protector. He is a bit part player who is neither here or there in what he offers.

Porter – Brought on at the end to try as we tried to hold onto the lead. He won a few headers and flick ons and actually contributed as we did create more chances in the last few minutes.

Officials – The referee did not give us much all game and 2 of the big decisions went against us. The headbutt into Quinn’s chest could easily have been a red card (to be fair to the ref and the linesman they both missed it) and then the foul on Evans could also easily have been a red card as it seemed as if he was the last man. There were numerous other odd decisions both ways to be fair and he seemed woefully inconsistent; sometimes giving nothing fouls and then others letting blatant things go. None of the goals were controversial and all 4 were rightly allowed with no offside decisions or fouls in the lead up. However, as I have said outside of this he was very up and down and at times you did not know what he would give/or not give next.

Crowd/Atmosphere – A flat atmosphere from the home fans for much of the game despite our comeback and 4 goals. I thought for such a small following their fans were tremendous and sang their hearts out all game. We seemed stunned as we went behind, then found our voice as we came back but then seemed unable to know what to do as we tossed away goal after goal and at the end their was the expected smattering of boos as we had coughed up 4 goals at home to a struggling side and were unable to win the game giving up leads twice. Another poor crowd in numbers (just over 17,000+) despite the quid a kid offers. Shows that all those (including myself) saying we would get better crowds with offers and kids deals are probably wrong and that it does not matter what the club do we are resigned to 15-17,000 crowds most of the season.

 

[stannyblade]

mcdonald our best player? Youre having a laugh. Cant wont tackle and first half his passing was terrible. Too powder puff. Man of match phillips followed by clarke.

 

[sitwell]

Macdonald was excellent today ,his passing was top drawer, I don't know what match you were watching. Deadbat your report on Collins is ridiculous ,he didn't lose a header all day ,he was surrounded by defenders and midfielders way off their game but he was the one pplayer who defended well and tried to play football out of defence ,is this not what we want rather than a big hoof ? As for him knocking it out of play ,the ball was coming straight back mainly due to the lack of movement by Cresswell and Quinn and Montgomery continually losing out. Quinn - 6 ,your having a laugh ,I can't think of one decent thing he did all game ,continually hiding or losing the ball , compare him to Phillips ,best player in the division my arse.
I thought the ref was decent ,apart from the headbutt which he obviously didn't see.
I would give Maguire and Lowton a rest for a couple of games and give Porter/Clarke a run at a strike artnership as I think they would compliment each others game.

Simmonsen (or replacement)
Parrino Lescinel Collins Williams
Phillips Montgomery Macdonald Quinn
Porter Clarke

Long Maguire Lowton Doyle Evans.

 

[mpjacko]

Could Deadbat maybe start rating the manager for every game? I believe that he is much as responsible for the loss i.e due to not signing a goalkeeper or bring on the wrong players.

I'm afraid this season is turning out as I expected and how it was for Wilson team last season. A good start but then trying to avoiding relegation by April - just that at united it prob stating sooner.

I also feel it going to be like this for another couple of years untill we have all the big earners off the book. No-one is going to buy Simmo, Evans, Willimison, so the only chance to get rid of these players is when their contracts runs out. What annoys me the most is the garbage and lies KM says i.e how he loves the club, how he wants us back in the Championship and that he couldn't believe we were relegated with the players we have. Until he changes his mind or leaves, we ain't going anywhere.

Luckly for us, we have 15k of wonderful fans who turnup weekin and weekout to support the blades. This will provide us with the money to sign better players compared to many other teams in the league

 

[shorehamview]

Could Deadbat maybe start rating the manager for every game? I believe that he is much as responsible for the loss i.e due to not signing a goalkeeper.....

As I've stated elsewhere, it's not as simple as blaming Wilson for not signing a keeper. How does he pay for the new keeper? I don't blame Wilson for the keepers we have - he's said that he'd love to sign new players. Unless he's given the funds, he can't sign any players. And nobody wanted to buy Ched Evans in the summer, becaue he may well be locked up by the end of the season, so we're stuck with the big wage earner and can't sign others on anything more than short 1 year contracts.

What about rating the chairman? He signs the cheques.

It's fair enough to blame the manager for the performance, after all, he manages the side, but to give him a (bad) rating because his boss didn't give him the funds to buy a good goalkeeper is ridiculous. Why not give him a minus 1,000 because we didn't sign Messi? Or because our chairman spunked money away on property speculation in the name of SUFC? Give him a low rating because of defensive errors, or tactical mistakes, but don't give him a low rating because of who he couldn't afford to sign, otherwise he'd never get above zero.

I also feel it going to be like this for another couple of years untill we have all the big earners off the book. No-one is going to buy Simmo, Evans, Willimison, so the only chance to get rid of these players is when their contracts runs out. What annoys me the most is the garbage and lies KM says i.e how he loves the club, how he wants us back in the Championship and that he couldn't believe we were relegated with the players we have. Until he changes his mind or leaves, we ain't going anywhere.

Luckly for us, we have 15k of wonderful fans who turnup weekin and weekout to support the blades. This will provide us with the money to sign better players compared to many other teams in the league

That's right about the high earners - Evans is taking the wages of potentially three or four "lower division" players. Our "great" attendances keep us ticking over, and that's about it. Our chairman could provide the solution, but won't, because he doesn't want to put any more money in, whcich is of course up to him. Perhaps he could try to find someone who would like to spend some money? He could apppoint a director who gives us a year of fuck-all. What? Oh. Right.

 

[stannyblade]

I just dont rate him at all. For me he played well against Bury and has gone down hill since. Doesnt tackle or run back. Quinn didnt want to know either after he was headbutted.
Sorry you cant say he was excellent

 

[axel smeets]

A 4-4 draw should be fairly exciting I suppose, but this game left me deflated and miserable. I thought all the defensive shortcomings from last season and this were again laid bare for all to see. Exeter played well but simply this game should have been won by United, especially coming off the back of the midweek win over MK plastics.

When United were behind, we pummelled Exeter, then, when we went 3-2 in front, it was wave after wave of Exeter attacks. United should have been going for the 4th goal to kill off the game. What makes the players think they are good enough to sit back on a lead? It was the same at Orient last week, and for the 3rd time in 2 weeks, United have dropped 2 points when we should have had 3. It is becoming a depressingly familiar refrain now in post match analysis.

 

[Pinchy]

I just dont rate him at all. For me he played well against Bury and has gone down hill since. Doesnt tackle or run back. Quinn didnt want to know either after he was headbutted.
Sorry you cant say he was excellent

He can because he was! He dominated midfield. He looked fitter and covered considerably more ground than previously. His passing, long and short, was precise and imaginative. Had we won, his performance would have been lauded by many - as it was, the black comedy overshadowed everything positive.

Now, what of The Maestro's Comedie Noir performance? The shadow chaser embarrassed by a bunch of unknowns. Frank Lampard, where are you now?

 

[Fiery Blade]

Despite being cash strapped, skint etc etc Much of what is happening out on the field must be down to the manager and coaching staff:
Goalkeeping - We have a goalkeeping coach apparantly Paul Crichton - what is he doing day in day out - the mistakes being made are made by schoolboys and pub league goalkeepers ocassionally yet our professional goalkeepers are making them week in week out!
Defence- We invite teams to come onto us after taking the lead yet cannot defend either set plays or attacks down the flanks same owd same owd week in week out - does the manager not comprehend this and work on defending these positions during training!
Midfield - Cannot retain possession and pass to the same colour shirt, same week in week out - Monty must be the only midfielder in the country that gives the ball away 75% +of his passes We also give away some many free kicks in the middle third inviting dead ball pressure on our poor defence and goalkeeping situation!
Attack - It is obvious since procuring the Blackpool duo that when they go back we are going to be buggered up front with a collection of expensive misfits, old men and crocks that struggled to hit a cows arse with a banjo and an assist rate of next to none!
How much collectively do Evans, Porter, Cresswell get week in week out yet none of them can get a regular berth in the side when Clarke & Phillips are here! ( an they are not good enough for an average Championship side - hence the fact they are here on loan!!
Wilson has spent (or spending on wages) on LJF, Porter, Flynn, McDonald, Williams, Phillips, Clarke, Liaing, Parrino, Philliskirk - ten players yet he has still not addressed our woeful goalkeeping situation, our obvious shortcomings at centre back, lack of pace at full back and midfield, our midfield control (or lack of it!), and our attack now relies solely on the Blackpool pair who are due to go back next week!
Manager and coaches should be able to work and improve existing players as well as seek out and sign new talent - they seem woefully short in both areas!

 

[Ballinpigpubs13]

Meat and potato pie 6/10 pastry was quite dry
Lager in ground 4/10
Atmosphere 6/10
Match/result 5/10
Away support 7/10 it's a fair old poke

 

[Ollessendro]

Agree with most of that Deadbat. I'll write a more detailed summary/addition on my way back on the train, but here are a few thoughts:
- Lowton: he was shocking defensively and needs to be dropped. I'd probably play him out wide right when Philips goes back (as I think he is excellent going forward) or drop Quinn and play Philps left. I'd play either Parrino or Ertl (as I heear he is back soon).
- Quinn: he was terrible yesterday and rivalled Monty and Long for worst player on the pitch. He constantly came inside, drfited out of the game and never gave us any width. His touch was poor and passing woeful. Needs a break from the tea.
- Collins: Like others I think this mark is harsh. Williams, Maguire and Lowton all let him down. Plus Monty with his awful performances. Collins won a lot of headers, played it out from the back and was our only solid defender.
- Others: agree that Monty and Long had shockers and that McDonald and Philps were both excellent. Did not thing Clarke weas very good, other than his goal. Completely annonymous.
- Officials: what is it about refeering at this standard? And what is it about officials allowing dirty, cynical teams to come to Bramall Lane and kick us off the park. Exeter were awful yesterday. The ref/linesman allowed them to deck us. There were several bad yellow card challengers first half, there should have been a straight red for a headbutt on Quinn, there were other hand bag incidents lead by Exeter players, it should have been a sending off (and possibly a pen) when Evans was pulled doiwn and their celebrations for the 3rd and 4th goals were sickening. The waker who scored the 4rd was allowed to run to the kop and celebrate and the ref did nowt. The 4th was even worse with that Exeter dickhead clebrating like man infront of some wheelchair Blades in the John Street. Terrible ref that gave us nothing and ruined the game.
- Exeter: other than being dity and cynical, full credit to Exeter. They pressed us hard, made us work hard for our goals and never gave up. Thye are poor side, but they have spirit. We should have rolled them over, but they never stopped fighting.
Atmosphere: where do you sit Deadbat? I thought the atmosphere was pretty good today. n the kop we really got behind the team, particualrly 2nd half. Exeter really contributed, but I thought the home fans were good. We were very patient and really got behind the team when it mattered.
- at 3-2: why did we not attack and go on and win the game? Thought Wilson got it wrong with the subs.
- stanard of defedning/goalkeeping: it was like watching pub football. Conceding 4 goals at home to Exeter (bleeding) City!? Simple as that.
- Overall: felt like a defeat and I left the game feeling like I'b been punched in the stomach. Should have enjoyed 8 goals, but I was left deflated.

 

[Deadbat]

Atmosphere

I sit in the South Stand. Moved from the Kop last year.

I think the atmosphere has been really poor much of this season to the extent I can hear players shouting (and I sit right at the back of the South Stand).

It's funny how at times it seemed the Kop would be really noisy when I have sat amongst it but when you are away from it it seems deathly quiet.
There was barely a peep out of the crowd until we went 3-2 up and then there was a bit of noise but hardly deafening.

Suppose it depends where you sit but honestly many of the games this year there has been very little-mininal noise from United fans to the extent that away fans most week (only a few hundred) seem far noisier and regularly mock the Blades fans for the total lack of noise.

Those who sit on the Kop will sometimes say it is noisy and a good atmosphere being amongst any noise that comes out but having sat in the 2 side stands in recent seasons most games the Lane seems like a morgue. I think if any who sit on the Kop came and sat in the side stands they would be surprised how quiet it actually is. That is my totally unbiased view but hearing away fans who leave the ground quite a few have said the same unfortunately.

 

[axel smeets]

Actually I agree with most of that Olle, espcially about the referee. Despite our own shortcomings as a team (and there are plenty), its getting a bit tiresome watching referee's allow the opposition to kick us off the park and incite the crowd as they did yesterday - and its happening with increasing regularity.

Also, I agree with you that the atmosphere wasn't as flat as it could have been. At the end of the day, we were 2-0 down at home to Exeter City. I don't think the fans turned, but equally I wouldn't expect us to be raucous; you can't expect that.

 

[blade too long]

I am going to use a word I didnt think Id use to often
that was Entertaining
I got my moneys worth
I sat in the stand , I raged I laughed I cheered and thoroughly enjoyed it
So we drew, sometimes you have to admit teams will get a result here
Lets not forget Wednesday thought a trip to Exeter last season would be 3 points in the bag after just thrashing bristol rovers 6-2
and Exeter slapped in 5

Yes there were errors, poor play , good god , we arent in this division for our ablity
But there were a lot of positives
I got my moneys worth of watching a thoroughly entertaining game
seen some dreadful 1-0 wins this was different
different can be good , not too often , admitted, but ok once in a while

 

[grafikhaus]

Could Deadbat maybe start rating the manager for every game?

OK, he's got no money. He's saddled with high earners. Blah, blah.

But what he should have done is ensure that the players were fired up from minute one for this game. The players obviously thought they would only have to go through the motions with this game. They finally lifted themselves when 2-0 down. If that's not the managers fault, what is?

As I posted immediately after the Orient throw-away:

How rich are Orient? Let's see how Exeter perform next week with a team that cost nowt.

The excuses are wearing thin.

And for those who are saying 'That's six points we've thrown away in four games', don't forget we were shitting it v. MK Dons at the end.

 

[Ollessendro]

I sit in the South Stand. Moved from the Kop last year.

I think the atmosphere has been really poor much of this season to the extent I can hear players shouting (and I sit right at the back of the South Stand).

It's funny how at times it seemed the Kop would be really noisy when I have sat amongst it but when you are away from it it seems deathly quiet.
There was barely a peep out of the crowd until we went 3-2 up and then there was a bit of noise but hardly deafening.

Suppose it depends where you sit but honestly many of the games this year there has been very little-mininal noise from United fans to the extent that away fans most week (only a few hundred) seem far noisier and regularly mock the Blades fans for the total lack of noise.

Those who sit on the Kop will sometimes say it is noisy and a good atmosphere being amongst any noise that comes out but having sat in the 2 side stands in recent seasons most games the Lane seems like a morgue. I think if any who sit on the Kop came and sat in the side stands they would be surprised how quiet it actually is. That is my totally unbiased view but hearing away fans who leave the ground quite a few have said the same unfortunately.

Fair enough DB. You tell it as you see it. Like Axel quoted below I think that the atmosphere was not bad, considering the circumstances. At 2 nowt down you could hear a pin drop, but we were losing 2 nil at home to Exeter. Next time I come up I might sit in another area and see how it is.

Actually I agree with most of that Olle, espcially about the referee. Despite our own shortcomings as a team (and there are plenty), its getting a bit tiresome watching referee's allow the opposition to kick us off the park and incite the crowd as they did yesterday - and its happening with increasing regularity.

Also, I agree with you that the atmosphere wasn't as flat as it could have been. At the end of the day, we were 2-0 down at home to Exeter City. I don't think the fans turned, but equally I wouldn't expect us to be raucous; you can't expect that.

I'm getting fucking sick of this too Axel. Dirty, horrible, cynical teams turning up at Bramall Lane and getting away with murder. Wednesday, Huddersfield and Exeter have come up and decked us and taken points. Wednesday and Exeter inparticult put in some horrible challengers and how they escaped red cards is beyond me. The standard of refeering has dropped much lower than the poor standard of football. Teams are allowed to come to BDTBL, kick lumps out of our best players (often targetting younger or more skilled players), incite the home fans and generally do whatever the fuck they want. They go unpunished and it furstrates the hell out of me. It is actually one of the reasons why I think that we've not seen so much of some of the academy players, i.e. these thugs would just batter them. Like I said, credit to Exeter for their fighting spirit. But they were so fucking dirty. The headbutt on Quinn, a couple of argie bargie incidents in the first half (down on the right) that were instigated by their players, inciting the home fans for the 3rd and 4th goals and there was also the penalty/sending off incident. The worst part is how refs just allows teams to do this. Wednesday, Huddersfield and now Exter have been allowed to bend the tules and take points off us with extremely physical performances that shoud have been penalised.

---------- Post added at 11:44 AM ---------- Previous post was at 11:41 AM ----------

But what he should have done is ensure that the players were fired up from minute one for this game. The players obviously thought they would only have to go through the motions with this game. They finally lifted themselves when 2-0 down. If that's not the managers fault, what is?

This is spot on. I think United did not turn up yesterday. They had done the hard work against MK Dons and Exeter would be a roll over. They seemed to think they just needed to turn up and it would be 3 easy points. Wilson has to shoulder some of the blame for not firing them up and allowing this complacency.

 

[axel smeets]

I think Olle that this season the only referee I have seen try to clamp down on such tactics was at Orient last Saturday. At Tranmere in August, it was the same, and as you have alluded to, there is a litany of offences against United that would no doubt fill a couple of sides of A4 paper if they were written down.

I also think that the incitement of the crowd by their players is worst of all. Whilst I wouldn't condone it, if someone on the kop threw a coin at them, the club would be punished, and the referee's could stamp this out straight away. Unfortunatley, most of them seem to be waiting on a spine donor.

 

[Longtime Blade]

Thanks for the report Deadbat. I have just a few quibbles;

Yet again I think you are too hard on Collins. He does kick the ball out a lot but there's nothing wrong with a safety-first

policy. We certainly don't want him to try Nos-style dribbling, do we?

On the other hand you are, as previously, too kind to Evans. I've always felt that his ball control has been really poor. He

loses possession very easily and when near the touchline his control is so bad that the ball often goes out for a throw-in.

He was with a Premiership club, dropped to the Championship and is now a sub in league 1.

Can't the headbutting incident be sorted out by video evidence? Last season Doyle was clouted one by Emnes in the Boro

game at the Lane; it was missed by the officials but he was later suspended as a result of such evidence.

 

[Bladesway]

We are 4th, the world hasn't ended. Had you told me we would be here at the start of the season I would have been happy enough. Fans : someone said we had 15k hardcore brilliant fans etc etc. Nothing brilliant if theres no atmosphere really is it? 15k of fans not singing, whats the point. You should charge less, get 20k+ in and watch the atmosphere improve.

Wilsons doing nothing wrong. He is hamstrung by having to trade among the deadmen and obviously doesn't rate Ched enough to start him regular. Perhaps our striking welshman has a bit of an attitude problem? As he is in court on a possible rape charge (something most of the rest of us have never had to worry about) hes at best a bit of a tit. At worst.....well innocent until proven guilty I suppose.

We get Ertl and Morgs back in some working order and the back 4 problems should go away. Morgs provides the leadership we are lacking and organises us so that we don't give silly goals away at the end of every bloody game. As frustrating as it is, we aren't in my opinion far from getting it right. Wilson seems to have got a gem of a loanee in Phillips and its a shame if he goes back. Hope we get to keep him but thats going to be down to Superblade and I won't hold my breathe.

In all, no need to panic, we are amongst the pace setters and won't know if this has cost us until the end of the season.

Finally, Morgs and Ertl coming back will help the GK position as well. More confidence and better communication from your back 4 leads to more confidence from your keeper. I don't believe Simmo is actually a bad keeper, just suffering a shocking lack of confidence right now.

 

[sitwell]

Could have written that post myself ,agree with every word. apart from i think the signing of either Clarke or Phillips will be down to Ian Holloway rather than Mcabe.

 

[alcoblade]

We are 4th, the world hasn't ended. Had you told me we would be here at the start of the season I would have been happy enough. Fans : someone said we had 15k hardcore brilliant fans etc etc. Nothing brilliant if theres no atmosphere really is it? 15k of fans not singing, whats the point. You should charge less, get 20k+ in and watch the atmosphere improve.

Wilsons doing nothing wrong. He is hamstrung by having to trade among the deadmen and obviously doesn't rate Ched enough to start him regular. Perhaps our striking welshman has a bit of an attitude problem? As he is in court on a possible rape charge (something most of the rest of us have never had to worry about) hes at best a bit of a tit. At worst.....well innocent until proven guilty I suppose.

We get Ertl and Morgs back in some working order and the back 4 problems should go away. Morgs provides the leadership we are lacking and organises us so that we don't give silly goals away at the end of every bloody game. As frustrating as it is, we aren't in my opinion far from getting it right. Wilson seems to have got a gem of a loanee in Phillips and its a shame if he goes back. Hope we get to keep him but thats going to be down to Superblade and I won't hold my breathe.

In all, no need to panic, we are amongst the pace setters and won't know if this has cost us until the end of the season.

Finally, Morgs and Ertl coming back will help the GK position as well. More confidence and better communication from your back 4 leads to more confidence from your keeper. I don't believe Simmo is actually a bad keeper, just suffering a shocking lack of confidence right now.

Good post. I wouldn't have been suprised if we were relegation fodder this year. I dont buy it that the likes of Evans "should piss this league". We've ended up in the third because, in the main, the players are third division standards. And Evans can't command a regular place at that. So given all that, you have to give lots of credit to Wilson so far. The worry is the lack of pace which he addressed in the best way he could, sadly loans. When they go back the problem returns.

Your point about Morgans and Ertl getting the best out of Simmo is true. Though he isn't a top keeper, add in his confidence and he should be good enough for this division.

UTB

 

[Ollessendro]

Men of steel, crimes againstb hoof and football and my thoughts on yest

On the train travelling back from Sheffield to London and thought I’d share my thoughts on yesterday’s performance. Deadbat has already written an excellent report, which I have responded to. I agree with Deadbat’s interpretation of the game, though (at stated in my response) I disagree with a few things. I’ll not go over too much of what Deadbat has already said, so that it is not too repetitive. I’ll try to come at it from a different angle.

Ollessendro’s 3rd pilgrimage to BDTBL, in search of real ale and proper football, saw an goal thriller. My 6th game of this season was a real rollercoaster ride which saw United go 2 nil down, lead twice and eventually share the points.

The game: Ollessendro’s thoughts

What a rollercoaster ride! Unfortunately I did not feel like I’d been entertained, but actually felt like I’d taken a punch in the gut. It really felt like we’d lost and what should have been a comfortable victory can only be seen as points dropped. I was completely shell shocked when we went 2 down, but still felt we’d get back in the game. I text a mate at half time and said we’d win 4-2. A bloke at the side of me said ‘we’ll never get back in this’ and I responded ‘don’t worry mucker, we’ll score 3 or 4 and go on to win’. Unfortunately a combination of shocking defending and extremely poor keeping saw us throw away a lead twice!

In the first 5 minutes I was thinking, geez look at the gulf in class. Exeter are rubbish and we’ll steamroller them! I made this mistake when watching Wycombe vs United earlier this season. Just like the game at Wycombe United were in the ascendency when a bad error gifted the opposition a goal. It seemed to me that Williams had done the hard work getting in front of the Exeter striker, but suddenly the striker was in the clear and had a simple tap in. I could not tell whether it was Williams or Long’s fault, but it was shambolic. Williams seemed to be waiting for Long and the keeper was caught in two minds. It was a defensive mix up and United were behind. Why the fuck do we keep dishing out presents to teams?

Exeter’s 2nd was just as bad, but in another way. One player was allowed to run 30 yards before a challenge was put in. He skipped past 3 United players, including Montgomery, and drilled in a shot from 25 yards. It was a touch fortunate as the ball deflected of Collins and looped past Long (who had no chance). United had been in the ascendency and were creating chances. We huffed and puffed to no avail, but got back into the game (rather fortunately) when Phillips’ deflected shot flew in.

Half time and it was game on. United put on the pressure and Exeter really struggled. Quinn fed Williams on the overlap and his low cross was converted by Clarke. It was well taken goal and a good move. With 20 minutes to go United took the lead. They were all over Exeter and a corner saw Lowton stab the ball home, after Maguire won a header. The crucial point here for me was that we sat back. I saw watching closely and Wilson called Monty over and clearly instructed him to pull back and shut up shop. We took our foot off the gas and it cost us. Wilson took off the influential McDonald and disappointing Clarke and put on Doyle and Porter. It was clearly an attempt to kill the game off.

However Exeter were level after more poor defending. United sent everyone forward when we had a corner and Exeter broke. Montgomery tracked his man, but did not do enough to get a challenge in. He let the player run 40 yards or so and gave him the space to get the ball on his other foot and cross it. The Exeter player was left unmarked, but Long made a howler and it was an easy header. Long came out without any conviction and got caught in no man’s land. He missed the ball and left an easy header. It was very much like Simmonsen has done on several occasions for the Blades. If he stays on his line the Exeter striker has to head the ball well to beat him. With Long misjudging it the header was simple (despite him stretching) and it trickled into the middle of the goal.

Suddenly United were forced to play again as they went forward looking for a 4th. Maguire sent a diagonal ball forward and Evans did brilliantly to hold off his defender and head the ball down into the danger area. Philips then smashed the ball into the corner and United had got out of jail and won the game. Or so we thought. Straight from the kick off a hopeful ball was misjudged by Maguire and when he missed the header the striker had a clear run on goal. He was at a tight angle and had a lot to do, but Long made it really easy for him. Long misjudged the situation and ran out. However he seemed to not realise where his goal was and left acres of space. The striker was left with an easy tap in and the ball trickled into the net. Shocking defending by Maguire and terrible keeping by the 17 year had lost United 2 points.

Wilson: tactics

I thought that he got the tactics right, but the obvious talking point will be the selection of Long. Really Wilson had little choice, as Simmonsen had to be dropped, and Long did ok against MK Dons. We can all speculate as to why he has not brought a keeper in, but it has cost us yet again. This could be a blessing in disguise and hopefully Wilson has enough to go to McCabe with and ask him for funds. I will be really disappointed if we don’t have a loan keeper for Stevenage next week.

United seemed to think that if they turned up they would win this game and Wilson has to shoulder some of the blame for this. He is responsible for his team and should not allow them to be complacent. He cannot account for individual mistakes, but he can get his team fired up. United were slow, pedestrian and clearly thought they’d won the game. Only after we were 2 down did we start to work hard. Wilson can say what he wants about individual mistakes (and they did cost us) but it’s his job to motivate the team and stamp out complacency.

The other time I thought Wilson got things wrong is when we took the lead 3-2. He went defensive and brought on Doyle. McDonald did look tired, but he was really pulling the strings. I felt Exeter were there for the taking and if we’d attacked then we’d have wrapped the game up. Again Wilson was let down by his players, as Monty and Long made bad errors to allow the goal. There was a lack of leadership and organisation when we went 3-2 up and we panicked. Wilson could not influence this, but I thought he took the wind out of our sails by bringing (the ineffective) Doyle on.

Men of steel

Yesterday’s men of steel were Kevin McDonald and Matty Philips.

McDonald: the centre midfielder was excellent yesterday. He really imposed himself on the game and showed himself to be the best midfielder on the pitch. He was always available, always found his pass and was at the heart of everything in the 2nd half. He was really pulling the strings and his passing was excellent. I can only hope he can assert himself on the game like that week in week out as if he plays like that every week he is a real asset.

Philips: he was excellent yesterday and tore Exeter apart. He is quick and quite intelligent with the ball, His pace really puts the wind up defenders. I like the way he is not afraid to take on his man and he got some real joy yesterday on both wings. I’ll be sorry to see him go back as he really makes things happen. Not only does he skin his man, he also gets in the box (as proved with 2 goals) and supports the forwards.

Crimes against hoof

Kevin McDonald should be sent to Doncatraz for his crimes against hoof. His crisp passing, ability to find space and awareness of United players was excellent. On his day he is a very good central midfielder and a cut above players in this division. Unfortunately he was paired with a chimpanzee (see crimes against football) who let him down badly.

Crimes against football

If there was an actual crime for crimes against football then Nick Montgomery would have got a life sentence yesterday. A truly shocking performances from the ‘maestro’. Everything that is wrong with il capitano’s game was highlighted yesterday and what made it worse is he did not do the things he usually does well. Montgomery was chasing shadows all afternoon. He put in one decent tackle in the first half, but looked like a circus act (clown) for most of the game. He was at fault for both the 2nd and 3rd goals, allowing a player to run unopposed for 40 yards on both occasions. But worse than this, the defensive midfielder’s distribution was terrible. He barely made a pass all game and his touch was shocking. On 4 or 5 occassions, when in space he just aimless hoofed the ball up in the air. This ranged from a pitching wedge type chip (that just went straight in the air) to kicking the ball straight out of play.

Exeter

I have real mixed feelings about Exeter. I respect the way that they did not lay down, battled hard, closed down and pressed us, made us work for our goals and showed some real fighting spirit. However they were a dirty, cynical side. They should have had 3 men sent off and the way that they kicked us, roughed us up and got aggressive/dirty was sickening. They also went out of their way to wind the up home fans in a gross act of cynicism. They were allowed to do this by the referee, but for me it took the shine off what was a real battling performance.

There was the head butt, an incident in the first half were one of their players raised his hands and pushed a United player and also the clean through on Evans that all could (and probably should) have warranted red cards. They were fortunate in that sense. But they worked hard and were good for their point. They’ll stay in this division. What they lack in quality they make up for in spirit and hard work. Another thing that really pissed me off was the way they celebrated their goals. Running down and celebrating in front of the kop is out of order. That nobhead who scored their third deserves a whack for that. He could have caused a riot and was lucky not to get carded for that. The way they celebrated the fourth was simply pathetic. Running to the John Street and going mental in front of disabled United fans was bad taste. The goalscorer trying to wind up and intimidate people in wheelchairs was outrageous. Again he escaped unpunished.

Officials

The referee had an absolute shocker. How many fucking referees are we going to see at Bramall Lane who cannot control the game. The officiating in this division is just shocking! The officials allowed a dirty, cynical Exeter team to kick us off the park. As stated above they should have had 3 red cards, but the ref bottled all the big decisions. I am fucking sick of seeing teams come to BDTBL and batter us and the ref just do nowt. Wednesday, Huddersfield and Exeter all came with the intention of kicking lumps out of us, winding the fans up and generally being cynical to put us off our game. It has worked on all occasions (all 3 taking points) mainly because the officials have allowed it to happen.

Player ratings

I am including player ratings because I did not agree with all of Deadbat’s.

Long 3/10: he had an absolute nightmare. At fault for at least 2 of the goals. He was indecisive, nervous and showed poor judgement. His ability was called into question and he really looked exposed. He cannot start another game for the first team. He might only be 17, but his position and judgment make me think he will never be a decent keeper.

Lowton 3.5/10: same old Lowton. Excellent going forward and scored. But woeful at defending. He really bombs forward and combined well with Philips. United got some joy down the right and Lowton gets forward really well. However defensively he is poor. He gives his man too much space, switches off, looks lethargic and is beaten too easily. H e had a torrid time yesterday. I think he needs a break from the team. Either that or to be played further forwarded. I’d consider dropping him for Parrino or Ertl (who is apparently close to fitness). I would also consider playing Lowton wide right and Philips out left (at the expense of Quinn).

Williams 4.5/10: poor game from him. Involved in the defensive mix up for the first and did not have a good first half. He got forwarded and created the 2nd goal, but did not do the basics right.

Maguire: 3.5/10: really poor game for Maguire. Inconsistency seems to be his problem and he clearly thinks he is better than what he is. He has a tendency to be overconfident and switch off and it costs us. He was at fault for Wycombe’s winner and he made a bad mistake for their 4th. I’d consider dropping him if we had options and it may be that Ertl is given a game at CB when he is fit.

Collins 5.5/10: our best defender and badly let down by his fellow defenders. He won most of his headers and was generally solid. There is a case that he is not leading the defence enough, but I think he was just let down by his colleagues. With Lowton, Maguire and Williams having poor games Collins was up shit creek. I thought he had a reasonable game yesterday. He does tend to sit back a little and could be more decisive/aggressive (i.e. their 2nd when he backed off and eventually made a challenge) and hence my mark.

Montgomery 2.5/10 a truly terrible performance and the worst player on the pitch. He failed to martial his troops and had a really bad individual game. He was chasing shadows all game and looked way off the pace. He could not get near some very average midfielders and on 2 occassions allowed a player to run 40 yards without a challenge. He just did not do his job and did not protect the back 4 at all. His distribution was worse than ever. He could not control the ball and barely found a red and white shirt all afternoon. His wasteful hoofs just invited Exeter to come straight back at us. Performances like that make you realise why Pinch bangs on the way he does!

McDonald 7.5/10: a very good game from K Mac. He really imposed himself and ran the game. Got his foot on the ball, dominated the midfield and showed a good touch, vision and range of passing.

Quinn 3/10: a really poor game and I feel he needs a rest. He has completely lost his form and was completely ineffective yesterday. His touch was poor, he was wasteful, his passing bad and he has a tendency to hold onto the ball for too long. The most irritating thing is that he comes inside all the time and narrows play. When you want to spread things there is often nobody out wide left as he is running around ;like a headless chicken. He needs to be told to stay out wide, or played in centre mid. In fact, I think he needs to be rested. Badly out of form and offering very little at the moment.

Philips 7.5/10: United’s most dangerous player and a real threat. 2 goals and an excellent performance. He is quick and tricky. I love the way he is not afraid to attack the full back and goes by his man easily. He was on fir yesterday. He really gets about and supports the forwards well too.

Clarke 4/10: thought he was poor yesterday, though he showed flashes of brilliance. He took the 2nd goal well and got better in the 2nd half. However I felt he was anonymous for long periods.

Cresswell 4/10: never really in the game and although he battled hard he had a poor game. I am surprised he is starting ahead of Evans at the moment. He had a good opportunity first half that he fluffed and after that his contribution was minimal.

Subs: Evans did ok when he came on. He created the 4th with an excellent header and also forced what could/should have been a sending off and a penalty. Doyle did very little in the last 15 minutes and showed he is a limited player. He has little flair and seems a yard short of pace. Porter was completely ineffective and other than winning a header or two, barely touched the ball.

(my scoring system is 5 average, 6 good, 7 very good etc and vice vera)

Ale

Once again my search for real ale and proper football found lots of the former, but little of the latter. I should have known it was not going to be a good day when the Cricketers had run out of (Kelham Island) red and white wizard. That said, I had a couple of nice pints in the Rutland (Arms) before heading to the ticket office to pick up my tickets for Stevenage. The pick of the bunch was Fallen Angel, from Church End (a Nottinghamshire brewer). A strong, yet light pale ale. Smooth and creamy, but with a hoppy aftertaste. Typical of the strong pale ales from this genre: Pale Rider, Tangled up etc.

To drown my sorrows I went to Chesterfield Market Beer Festival. As if I was not feeling bad enough after the match I found that they were not using sparklers for the beer. 41 ales from South Yorkshire and Derbyshire, but no fucking sparklers. Still the flat beer tasted pretty good. The top two ale were Coffee Porter and Abduction. The coffee porter was an excellent porter with a smoky coffee taste. The Abduction was similar to the Fallen Angel, a strong yet light pale ale. Strong in volume and taste, yet refreshingly light and with a real spicey kick. Kind of similar to (Thornbridge’s fantastic) Jaipur.

Olle’s final thoughts

Once again individual mistakes have cost us points. What should have been a comfortable, straight forward and even emphatic victory against a poor team end up being a draw. It was shambolic. The positives are that we can tear teams apart at this level. McDonald looked like a proper centre mid and Philips was excellent. I do fear that we may struggle to break teams down after the Blackpool pair return though. The negatives list is long. Poor leadership, a terrible goalkeeping situation, bad individual mistakes, complacency, awful defending and the tendency to panic (lack of belief that we can hold onto a lead) were all prevalent yesterday. We need to address the goalkeeping situation quickly and some of the defenders/midfielders need a rocket up their arse. 2 points lost (again). Still not the end of the world and we are still 4th.

 

[silverfox]

On the train travelling back from Sheffield to London and thought I’d share my thoughts on yesterday’s performance. Deadbat has already written an excellent report, which I have responded to. I agree with Deadbat’s interpretation of the game, though (at stated in my response) I disagree with a few things. I’ll not go over too much of what Deadbat has already said, so that it is not too repetitive. I’ll try to come at it from a different angle.

Ollessendro’s 3rd pilgrimage to BDTBL, in search of real ale and proper football, saw an goal thriller. My 6th game of this season was a real rollercoaster ride which saw United go 2 nil down, lead twice and eventually share the points.

The game: Ollessendro’s thoughts

What a rollercoaster ride! Unfortunately I did not feel like I’d been entertained, but actually felt like I’d taken a punch in the gut. It really felt like we’d lost and what should have been a comfortable victory can only be seen as points dropped. I was completely shell shocked when we went 2 down, but still felt we’d get back in the game. I text a mate at half time and said we’d win 4-2. A bloke at the side of me said ‘we’ll never get back in this’ and I responded ‘don’t worry mucker, we’ll score 3 or 4 and go on to win’. Unfortunately a combination of shocking defending and extremely poor keeping saw us throw away a lead twice!

In the first 5 minutes I was thinking, geez look at the gulf in class. Exeter are rubbish and we’ll steamroller them! I made this mistake when watching Wycombe vs United earlier this season. Just like the game at Wycombe United were in the ascendency when a bad error gifted the opposition a goal. It seemed to me that Williams had done the hard work getting in front of the Exeter striker, but suddenly the striker was in the clear and had a simple tap in. I could not tell whether it was Williams or Long’s fault, but it was shambolic. Williams seemed to be waiting for Long and the keeper was caught in two minds. It was a defensive mix up and United were behind. Why the fuck do we keep dishing out presents to teams?

Exeter’s 2nd was just as bad, but in another way. One player was allowed to run 30 yards before a challenge was put in. He skipped past 3 United players, including Montgomery, and drilled in a shot from 25 yards. It was a touch fortunate as the ball deflected of Collins and looped past Long (who had no chance). United had been in the ascendency and were creating chances. We huffed and puffed to no avail, but got back into the game (rather fortunately) when Phillips’ deflected shot flew in.

Half time and it was game on. United put on the pressure and Exeter really struggled. Quinn fed Williams on the overlap and his low cross was converted by Clarke. It was well taken goal and a good move. With 20 minutes to go United took the lead. They were all over Exeter and a corner saw Lowton stab the ball home, after Maguire won a header. The crucial point here for me was that we sat back. I saw watching closely and Wilson called Monty over and clearly instructed him to pull back and shut up shop. We took our foot off the gas and it cost us. Wilson took off the influential McDonald and disappointing Clarke and put on Doyle and Porter. It was clearly an attempt to kill the game off.

However Exeter were level after more poor defending. United sent everyone forward when we had a corner and Exeter broke. Montgomery tracked his man, but did not do enough to get a challenge in. He let the player run 40 yards or so and gave him the space to get the ball on his other foot and cross it. The Exeter player was left unmarked, but Long made a howler and it was an easy header. Long came out without any conviction and got caught in no man’s land. He missed the ball and left an easy header. It was very much like Simmonsen has done on several occasions for the Blades. If he stays on his line the Exeter striker has to head the ball well to beat him. With Long misjudging it the header was simple (despite him stretching) and it trickled into the middle of the goal.

Suddenly United were forced to play again as they went forward looking for a 4th. Maguire sent a diagonal ball forward and Evans did brilliantly to hold off his defender and head the ball down into the danger area. Philips then smashed the ball into the corner and United had got out of jail and won the game. Or so we thought. Straight from the kick off a hopeful ball was misjudged by Maguire and when he missed the header the striker had a clear run on goal. He was at a tight angle and had a lot to do, but Long made it really easy for him. Long misjudged the situation and ran out. However he seemed to not realise where his goal was and left acres of space. The striker was left with an easy tap in and the ball trickled into the net. Shocking defending by Maguire and terrible keeping by the 17 year had lost United 2 points.

Wilson: tactics

I thought that he got the tactics right, but the obvious talking point will be the selection of Long. Really Wilson had little choice, as Simmonsen had to be dropped, and Long did ok against MK Dons. We can all speculate as to why he has not brought a keeper in, but it has cost us yet again. This could be a blessing in disguise and hopefully Wilson has enough to go to McCabe with and ask him for funds. I will be really disappointed if we don’t have a loan keeper for Stevenage next week.

United seemed to think that if they turned up they would win this game and Wilson has to shoulder some of the blame for this. He is responsible for his team and should not allow them to be complacent. He cannot account for individual mistakes, but he can get his team fired up. United were slow, pedestrian and clearly thought they’d won the game. Only after we were 2 down did we start to work hard. Wilson can say what he wants about individual mistakes (and they did cost us) but it’s his job to motivate the team and stamp out complacency.

The other time I thought Wilson got things wrong is when we took the lead 3-2. He went defensive and brought on Doyle. McDonald did look tired, but he was really pulling the strings. I felt Exeter were there for the taking and if we’d attacked then we’d have wrapped the game up. Again Wilson was let down by his players, as Monty and Long made bad errors to allow the goal. There was a lack of leadership and organisation when we went 3-2 up and we panicked. Wilson could not influence this, but I thought he took the wind out of our sails by bringing (the ineffective) Doyle on.

Men of steel

Yesterday’s men of steel were Kevin McDonald and Matty Philips.

McDonald: the centre midfielder was excellent yesterday. He really imposed himself on the game and showed himself to be the best midfielder on the pitch. He was always available, always found his pass and was at the heart of everything in the 2nd half. He was really pulling the strings and his passing was excellent. I can only hope he can assert himself on the game like that week in week out as if he plays like that every week he is a real asset.

Philips: he was excellent yesterday and tore Exeter apart. He is quick and quite intelligent with the ball, His pace really puts the wind up defenders. I like the way he is not afraid to take on his man and he got some real joy yesterday on both wings. I’ll be sorry to see him go back as he really makes things happen. Not only does he skin his man, he also gets in the box (as proved with 2 goals) and supports the forwards.

Crimes against hoof

Kevin McDonald should be sent to Doncatraz for his crimes against hoof. His crisp passing, ability to find space and awareness of United players was excellent. On his day he is a very good central midfielder and a cut above players in this division. Unfortunately he was paired with a chimpanzee (see crimes against football) who let him down badly.

Crimes against football

If there was an actual crime for crimes against football then Nick Montgomery would have got a life sentence yesterday. A truly shocking performances from the ‘maestro’. Everything that is wrong with il capitano’s game was highlighted yesterday and what made it worse is he did not do the things he usually does well. Montgomery was chasing shadows all afternoon. He put in one decent tackle in the first half, but looked like a circus act (clown) for most of the game. He was at fault for both the 2nd and 3rd goals, allowing a player to run unopposed for 40 yards on both occasions. But worse than this, the defensive midfielder’s distribution was terrible. He barely made a pass all game and his touch was shocking. On 4 or 5 occassions, when in space he just aimless hoofed the ball up in the air. This ranged from a pitching wedge type chip (that just went straight in the air) to kicking the ball straight out of play.

Exeter

I have real mixed feelings about Exeter. I respect the way that they did not lay down, battled hard, closed down and pressed us, made us work for our goals and showed some real fighting spirit. However they were a dirty, cynical side. They should have had 3 men sent off and the way that they kicked us, roughed us up and got aggressive/dirty was sickening. They also went out of their way to wind the up home fans in a gross act of cynicism. They were allowed to do this by the referee, but for me it took the shine off what was a real battling performance.

There was the head butt, an incident in the first half were one of their players raised his hands and pushed a United player and also the clean through on Evans that all could (and probably should) have warranted red cards. They were fortunate in that sense. But they worked hard and were good for their point. They’ll stay in this division. What they lack in quality they make up for in spirit and hard work. Another thing that really pissed me off was the way they celebrated their goals. Running down and celebrating in front of the kop is out of order. That nobhead who scored their third deserves a whack for that. He could have caused a riot and was lucky not to get carded for that. The way they celebrated the fourth was simply pathetic. Running to the John Street and going mental in front of disabled United fans was bad taste. The goalscorer trying to wind up and intimidate people in wheelchairs was outrageous. Again he escaped unpunished.

Officials

The referee had an absolute shocker. How many fucking referees are we going to see at Bramall Lane who cannot control the game. The officiating in this division is just shocking! The officials allowed a dirty, cynical Exeter team to kick us off the park. As stated above they should have had 3 red cards, but the ref bottled all the big decisions. I am fucking sick of seeing teams come to BDTBL and batter us and the ref just do nowt. Wednesday, Huddersfield and Exeter all came with the intention of kicking lumps out of us, winding the fans up and generally being cynical to put us off our game. It has worked on all occasions (all 3 taking points) mainly because the officials have allowed it to happen.

Player ratings

I am including player ratings because I did not agree with all of Deadbat’s.

Long 3/10: he had an absolute nightmare. At fault for at least 2 of the goals. He was indecisive, nervous and showed poor judgement. His ability was called into question and he really looked exposed. He cannot start another game for the first team. He might only be 17, but his position and judgment make me think he will never be a decent keeper.

Lowton 3.5/10: same old Lowton. Excellent going forward and scored. But woeful at defending. He really bombs forward and combined well with Philips. United got some joy down the right and Lowton gets forward really well. However defensively he is poor. He gives his man too much space, switches off, looks lethargic and is beaten too easily. H e had a torrid time yesterday. I think he needs a break from the team. Either that or to be played further forwarded. I’d consider dropping him for Parrino or Ertl (who is apparently close to fitness). I would also consider playing Lowton wide right and Philips out left (at the expense of Quinn).

Williams 4.5/10: poor game from him. Involved in the defensive mix up for the first and did not have a good first half. He got forwarded and created the 2nd goal, but did not do the basics right.

Maguire: 3.5/10: really poor game for Maguire. Inconsistency seems to be his problem and he clearly thinks he is better than what he is. He has a tendency to be overconfident and switch off and it costs us. He was at fault for Wycombe’s winner and he made a bad mistake for their 4th. I’d consider dropping him if we had options and it may be that Ertl is given a game at CB when he is fit.

Collins 5.5/10: our best defender and badly let down by his fellow defenders. He won most of his headers and was generally solid. There is a case that he is not leading the defence enough, but I think he was just let down by his colleagues. With Lowton, Maguire and Williams having poor games Collins was up shit creek. I thought he had a reasonable game yesterday. He does tend to sit back a little and could be more decisive/aggressive (i.e. their 2nd when he backed off and eventually made a challenge) and hence my mark.

Montgomery 2.5/10 a truly terrible performance and the worst player on the pitch. He failed to martial his troops and had a really bad individual game. He was chasing shadows all game and looked way off the pace. He could not get near some very average midfielders and on 2 occassions allowed a player to run 40 yards without a challenge. He just did not do his job and did not protect the back 4 at all. His distribution was worse than ever. He could not control the ball and barely found a red and white shirt all afternoon. His wasteful hoofs just invited Exeter to come straight back at us. Performances like that make you realise why Pinch bangs on the way he does!

McDonald 7.5/10: a very good game from K Mac. He really imposed himself and ran the game. Got his foot on the ball, dominated the midfield and showed a good touch, vision and range of passing.

Quinn 3/10: a really poor game and I feel he needs a rest. He has completely lost his form and was completely ineffective yesterday. His touch was poor, he was wasteful, his passing bad and he has a tendency to hold onto the ball for too long. The most irritating thing is that he comes inside all the time and narrows play. When you want to spread things there is often nobody out wide left as he is running around ;like a headless chicken. He needs to be told to stay out wide, or played in centre mid. In fact, I think he needs to be rested. Badly out of form and offering very little at the moment.

Philips 7.5/10: United’s most dangerous player and a real threat. 2 goals and an excellent performance. He is quick and tricky. I love the way he is not afraid to attack the full back and goes by his man easily. He was on fir yesterday. He really gets about and supports the forwards well too.

Clarke 4/10: thought he was poor yesterday, though he showed flashes of brilliance. He took the 2nd goal well and got better in the 2nd half. However I felt he was anonymous for long periods.

Cresswell 4/10: never really in the game and although he battled hard he had a poor game. I am surprised he is starting ahead of Evans at the moment. He had a good opportunity first half that he fluffed and after that his contribution was minimal.

Subs: Evans did ok when he came on. He created the 4th with an excellent header and also forced what could/should have been a sending off and a penalty. Doyle did very little in the last 15 minutes and showed he is a limited player. He has little flair and seems a yard short of pace. Porter was completely ineffective and other than winning a header or two, barely touched the ball.

(my scoring system is 5 average, 6 good, 7 very good etc and vice vera)

Ale

Once again my search for real ale and proper football found lots of the former, but little of the latter. I should have known it was not going to be a good day when the Cricketers had run out of (Kelham Island) red and white wizard. That said, I had a couple of nice pints in the Rutland (Arms) before heading to the ticket office to pick up my tickets for Stevenage. The pick of the bunch was Fallen Angel, from Church End (a Nottinghamshire brewer). A strong, yet light pale ale. Smooth and creamy, but with a hoppy aftertaste. Typical of the strong pale ales from this genre: Pale Rider, Tangled up etc.

To drown my sorrows I went to Chesterfield Market Beer Festival. As if I was not feeling bad enough after the match I found that they were not using sparklers for the beer. 41 ales from South Yorkshire and Derbyshire, but no fucking sparklers. Still the flat beer tasted pretty good. The top two ale were Coffee Porter and Abduction. The coffee porter was an excellent porter with a smoky coffee taste. The Abduction was similar to the Fallen Angel, a strong yet light pale ale. Strong in volume and taste, yet refreshingly light and with a real spicey kick. Kind of similar to (Thornbridge’s fantastic) Jaipur.

Olle’s final thoughts

Once again individual mistakes have cost us points. What should have been a comfortable, straight forward and even emphatic victory against a poor team end up being a draw. It was shambolic. The positives are that we can tear teams apart at this level. McDonald looked like a proper centre mid and Philips was excellent. I do fear that we may struggle to break teams down after the Blackpool pair return though. The negatives list is long. Poor leadership, a terrible goalkeeping situation, bad individual mistakes, complacency, awful defending and the tendency to panic (lack of belief that we can hold onto a lead) were all prevalent yesterday. We need to address the goalkeeping situation quickly and some of the defenders/midfielders need a rocket up their arse. 2 points lost (again). Still not the end of the world and we are still 4th.

Williams better than Clarke??????????????

I really must have been at a different game. I know it's all about opinions but....

 

[Kenilworth]

McD was invisible in the first half then played really well until subbed second half
Clarke was anonymous first half then when DW changed tictacs and put him wide left to add more men in midfield (we were over run in the first half) he was at the heart of most of what was good.
Phillips made some cracking runs and took his goals very well - always looks a threat
Collins was steady and easily our best defender
Rest of 'em were pretty poor.

Olle's got far too much time to kill even though he has very good taste in ale.

BTW. Keith Edwards is a legend and a top bloke to boot. But he wouldn't reveal if Seth is a Blade or a pig.

 

[S64 Blade]

Nice one on the report Olle. It was particularly refreshing (don't excuse the pun).

 

[Mendi]

Its very upsetting we never won this game,I am Gutted.

 

[bricktop]

I'm getting fucking sick of this too Axel. Dirty, horrible, cynical teams turning up at Bramall Lane and getting away with murder. Wednesday, Huddersfield and Exeter have come up and decked us and taken points. Wednesday and Exeter inparticult put in some horrible challengers and how they escaped red cards is beyond me. The standard of refeering has dropped much lower than the poor standard of football. Teams are allowed to come to BDTBL, kick lumps out of our best players (often targetting younger or more skilled players), incite the home fans and generally do whatever the fuck they want. They go unpunished and it furstrates the hell out of me. It is actually one of the reasons why I think that we've not seen so much of some of the academy players, i.e. these thugs would just batter them. Like I said, credit to Exeter for their fighting spirit. But they were so fucking dirty. The headbutt on Quinn, a couple of argie bargie incidents in the first half (down on the right) that were instigated by their players, inciting the home fans for the 3rd and 4th goals and there was also the penalty/sending off incident. The worst part is how refs just allows teams to do this. Wednesday, Huddersfield and now Exter have been allowed to bend the tules and take points off us with extremely physical performances that shoud have been penalised.

---------- Post added at 11:44 AM ---------- Previous post was at 11:41 AM ----------



This is spot on. I think United did not turn up yesterday. They had done the hard work against MK Dons and Exeter would be a roll over. They seemed to think they just needed to turn up and it would be 3 easy points. Wilson has to shoulder some of the blame for not firing them up and allowing this complacency.

It's quite easy to combat these dirty, negative and cynical teams, and that is by fighting fire with fire.

Instead of letting the opposition get away with kicking lumps out our lads, we need a hard bastard in the side, someone who can with threaten the opposition hatchet man of the possible consequences of trying to knack Quinny, a couple of players who can intimidate theirs, and who are prepared to back up words with actions.

 

[stannyblade]

I didnt think Exeter was anywhere near as dirty as Huddersfield or Wendy but how someone can headbutt another player in front of 3 of 4 officials and be told off for it and not even booked is a joke

 

[Ollessendro]

Williams better than Clarke??????????????

I really must have been at a different game. I know it's all about opinions but....

Yes. I thought Clarke was poor. Other than his goal he was pretty annonymous. 2nd half he improved a little, but did not show some of the promise he had showed before. Philips on the other had was electric. It was like watching the Luis Figo of the third division. Every time he got the ball I thought something would happen. He got himself in some great positions, as evidenced by his 2 goals. Also, he skinned his man on several occassions. We had a lot of joy down the right and Philips gave their left backa torrid time. I am a big fan of his. When was hte lost time we had a winger on the books who really had a go at defenders and is not afraid to take on his man?

Olle's got far too much time to kill even though he has very good taste in ale.

As stated Kenny, I was on a train. 2 and half hours from Shef to London. Any road, seems we have more in common than we initially thought. An ale before the next match we are both at? Promise not to talk about mi shed

It's quite easy to combat these dirty, negative and cynical teams, and that is by fighting fire with fire.

Instead of letting the opposition get away with kicking lumps out our lads, we need a hard bastard in the side, someone who can with threaten the opposition hatchet man of the possible consequences of trying to knack Quinny, a couple of players who can intimidate theirs, and who are prepared to back up words with actions.

Interesting thought Brownie. I wondered if we'd have been bullied so much with Morgs in the side. He certainly would not have let Madine or Novak bully him or Maguire. That said, there's little he could have done to stop Wednesday's thuggish left back assault Williamson on several occassions and also there's little he can do when we have three blind mice at the Lane week in week out. (As stanny states) how the officials can give a telling off for a headbutt is beyond me. They either did not see it or it is a straight red. Pure and utter incompetence.