United 2 Cardiff 0 - report/ratings

[Deadbat]

The Blades got back to winning ways as they saw off a poor Cardiff side at Bramall Lane in a game that lacked quality throughout. United’s first half goal came from quick thinking from the one player who looked the brightest throughout, in Gus Hamer. The game remained close, in scoreline at least, right till the final moments before subs Kieffer Moore and Ben Brereton Diaz combined and the latter scored the clincher, on his birthday. Despite the win, victories for both Burnley, prior to the game, and Leeds, after the game, means United now are looking likely to have to enter the end of season scrum of the playoffs.



Manager Wilder made changes from the three consecutive defeats with Rob Holding in for Jack Robinson, Hamza Choudhury starting at right back for Harry Clarke and Tyrese Campbell starting up front. There was also a recall for Rhian Brewster. The Bluebirds were deep in relegation trouble and came to the Lane desperate for a result with games fast running out. They were without key men Aaron Ramsey and also former Blade Callum Robinson.



The game began as the rain started and this perhaps summed up the dearth of good play on show early on. Neither side could really put together any significant moves of note. United had more of the ball but Cardiff did try and take advantage of the defensive issues the home side had been experiencing recently. One ball in the box bounced around but Meite and Salech could not divert it goalwards where as at the other end, Rak Sakyi looked the main outlet. He was crowded out on one occasion before winning a corner on another foray. There had been little in terms of goalscoring action at all. Fish was booked, perhaps harshly for pulling Campbell back – when the United man seemed to have hold of his shirt initially but the referee reacted to the second indiscretion. On 30 minutes, United took the lead, out of nothing. Hamer exchanged passes with Brewster and then tried to find Campell but the ball then ricocheted off two Cardiff players, Fish and Chambers and HAMER reacted quickly to get in and stab the ball home on the angle.



United won a free kick in an almost identical area to where Hamer had scored against Coventry last month. The midfielder took it but this time it clipped the base of the post and went away with Horvath motionless and well beaten. Choudhury had been well forward in the next move but had to sprint back as a huge gap appeared down the right of the Blades side. The Bangladeshi international showed commendably anergy to get back and block the effort from Alves. The half ended with the Blades having the narrow lead as Hamer had injected some much-needed class into a game that had been really scrappy with build-up slow and ponderous from both teams.



The second half began with cup scorer at the Lane, Ashford coming on. It was a double change for the visitors with Willock also being introduced. Tanner and Alves gave way as Cardiff tried desperately to find something from the game. United looked to move the ball forward with more pace and Burrows was a feature in a few moves – nutmegging a defender in one piece of build-up. The left back then got on the end of a move that involved Campbell and Peck, it was fed down the left and Burrows shot was beaten away by Horvath.



Choudhury was cautioned for a foul on O’Dowda. Burrows was well forward again but the fall would not quite sit for Peck, but the midfielder had a headed effort at the keeper soon after this from a cross from the left. Just after the hour, Moore and O’Hare came on for Campbell and Brewster as the home side made their first changes. Turnbull also was introduced for Robertson for the Bluebirds.



United were seemingly caught between going for the clincher and sitting in, something they had been guilty of only a week ago at Home Park. Cardiff did start to have more territory in the Blades final third and won a corner, which saw their first real effort of the half, as Fish flashed a volley wide.



On 77 minutes, Brereton Diaz replaced Rak Sakyi just after Colwill had come on for Mannsverk for Cardiff. United were guilty of sitting too deep at this stage. Fortunately, Cardiff were not really creating anything of note. Meite’s weak header was easy for Cooper. Robinson and Seriki came on United as the game approached the final 5 minutes. With three minutes left, United put the game to bed. Moore had been busy since he had been introduced and his presence saw Rinomhota dither and the striker advanced towards goal. His cross shot was deflected right into the path of birthday boy BRERETON DIAZ who could not miss and smashed home from close range at the Kop end to seal the deal.



Cardiff had a few headed efforts in the final moments but never seriously looked like scoring and United saw out the additional time to give themselves a much-needed confidence boost of finally getting three points.

 

[Deadbat]

United – We won the game. We scored two goals. We stopped the rot and at least the team will have some confidence back in the sense the bad run has ended. In terms of the performance and how we went about it? It was very average and that is being kind. We had a few fleeting moments (mainly Hamer although saw flashes from Peck and Burrows) but overall, we made really hard work of beating an abject Cardiff side. I thought that overall, we still looked a side lacking confidence and a real plan how to go through teams and create chances. We were not seriously worried at the other end but this was more down to how bad Cardiff were. Holding was steady and gave us a bit more assurance in here but as I say, the visitors were dreadful and looked nailed on to go down. The fact we have played the bottom two sides and we have barely looked better (were not better last week) in two consecutive games, is a concern when we now have to almost certainly face the playoffs in a few weeks.



The players seem almost tired and out of energy. Everything we do seems a struggle and the ball is moved so slowly. We rarely break on teams anymore but also when we have it, take too many touches and there is no movement (watched the team and mostly everyone was stood when we had it). Teams sit in and we just seem to give it to Hamer and hope he finds a bit of quality -with a run or a through ball. Campell has dropped off and Brewster is not working in this role. Rak Sakyi frustrates but as with last week, at least he will try and run forward and carry the ball/commit defenders. He and Hamer were the only ones I felt might create. The defence were ok and at least did not make any stupid mistakes but again I think the away side were just so toothless and had no pace (no idea why Willock did not start but he has not really worked out for them – a player I have always liked from his QPR days). The big lad Meite was held up well by our two CB’s but he had no help. United did what they had to do in terms of winning the game – which is fine to get the three points but with us having to play another 2 – maybe 3 games (so 6 left) now you would think – I wanted to see us find some form, cohesiveness and a plan that will allow us to get beyond sides. Some quick, one touch stuff, some play on the break maybe but we looked languid and a bit clueless. We deserved to win of course but it was hardly inspiring. The game itself was boring. If we were right up with Leeds/Burnley at the top – then the win would have been the most important thing – no matter how we did it but I wanted to see more and did not. Maybe Leeds could have lost and then the three points were all that mattered I suppose but I worry we are 43 games in and as a team (granted lost a few key players but other teams have) we are no better than the first game against Preston – maybe worse?



We got to Burnley and I do not expect us to get anything (we have lost all 3 games to them and Leeds and quite comfortably) sadly. Be horrible to watch them celebrating on their own turf (Moor- geddit?!) as they probably will seal promotion. However, huge credit to Parker who I did not rate but has done a great job really – yes, has a big and expensive squad but to go so long without losing, he has driven a great mentality into them. I think that it will be all done Monday as Leeds will have already beat Stoke almost certainly. At least then, we can regroup and use those last two games to rest a few maybe and start thinking about how we can get results to get to the final.



I am at the stage now where sadly, I have accepted what we are. It is frustrating but we are not going to play like we did v Coventry (maybe against Coventry again) in two/three consecutive games – as that has not happened all season. We have had games like Coventry/Boro maybe 1 in 10 and probably only around 3 or 4 fluent and dominant performances all season. We have deservedly won a number of games and ground out some/controlled some others – pre Souttar injury but we are not going to do that now. I think I am naïve to expect the side to suddenly do what Burnley/Leeds are doing and just dominate teams. We are not and have not been that team. The best we can hope is we can scrap our way through three games and get up and then invest in a big way. I worry that our form since Xmas has not been even as good as Bristol City/Coventry and thus for all this – we are the third best team – yes we are in the table – I am not sure we are much better than those teams currently. Not in terms of how we are playing.



I am sure many will say I am being negative but I feel that the playoffs – the four that will be in – that it will be very close. What we do have is a few players (Hamer the stand out but Cooper the other end another) who can find a moment of class – to help us nick tight games. It is sad that this is how it will probably be but all the talk about formations/selections now I am not sure it changes a huge much,. Wilder has changed the side and moved people around but not sure it has massively improved things really? Rak Sakyi needs to play as gives us a threat and Holding needs to remain in the side now. Maybe his introduction, if he stays fit, will help us defend better and not look as panicky.



He has not changed the formation – but he will not do this now and can see the argument for/against this but he will argue if we are to go up – it will be from how we have won those tight games playing the formation we have).



Maybe we surprise me (and many others) and win at Burnley – taking it to the last few weeks but everything I have seen so far suggests that is unlikely. I do not even see us getting a draw – and worry we might get a right going over from a side looking to finish things in emphatic fashion. For me, I just want to see a committed performance and one where we show why we have been right with them most of the season.



Ratings:



Cooper 6/10 – Did what he had to. Not sure he had a proper save to make. Caught a few headers and saw one flash past his post. His throwing (out) seems to be better than his kicking – as he threw one lovely ball out but kicked another straight out soon after!



Choudhury 6/10 - Thought he did ok. I was fine how he has played here before. Yes, he does not offer much going forward but neither do Clarke or Gilchrist. Seriki is young and it might be, we go with him here for the remainder. Once ironically he was too far forward but got back to make a great block. Silly booking second half.



Burrows 6.5/10 – First half he was not really forward at all and thought tentative again in possession. I think he had lost his confidence and taking too many touches to do things. Few times could have crosses and came back inside. Second half much better and more like the Burrows we had seen before. Showed some nice skill (two nutmegs!) and got in some crosses and had one shot blocked. Became an outlet for a number of our attacks.



Ahmedhodzic 6.5/10 – Thought that Holding’s presence allowed him to take the ball on more when he had it but he also won his battle with the big lad, Meite and won a few headers today. Steady enough.



Holding 6/10 – Started with a few sloppy touches but grew into the game and he got better and better. He was nothing flash but defended sensibly but also used the ball well. The concern is he could not last the full 90 minutes and that is a worry. Maybe he takes him out for Burnley with one eye on the games to come – and the game coming so quickly as odd as that sounds? He needs to remain in the side after that for me though as I believe he will be an upgrade on Robinson. Ridiculous it has took so long for him to get the playing time that Wilder said he was lacking!



Peck 7/10 – Another mature performance. Even in the defeats, I am not sure he has been that bad and carried on trying to get on the ball, get around the pitch and effect things. He is neat and tidy, tries to move it on quickly when he can and never hides. His shooting/finishing is poor though and needs to improve this side – had 2 or 3 decent changes today (one header too).



Souza 6.5/10 – He was able to play a full game which is positive after a stop start few months. He got his foot in, helped it on and got around. I thought we controlled midfield, even if we did not create a ton of chances. He just did what he had to do. A few silly fouls again though when he needed to just keep his position.



Hamer 7.5/10 – The best player on the pitch. He was not amazing but the only one that showed quality in terms of making things happen in the final third. Started the game poorly with two give aways but improved. He was always looking for the forward pass or trying to find space/send balls to free men. Tries the difficult stuff even if not everything works. The goal was due to his quick thinking and anticipation and took it well. The free kick was a fantastic effort too. After this he maybe did not have as much of an influence but when we had good moves, he was often around or orchestrating things. Without him, I worry how we create at all.



Brewster 5/10 – He had that nice spell around Weds/Coventry and scored two big goals but he is not a number 10 and not sure he even knows how to play this role. He had a few moments and link play but the game seemed to pass him by for long periods and Campbell was isolated. We did not go through the middle much at all. I would bring O’Hare back in here for the run in and get him back integrated (I know he was poor at Plymouth) as his pressing/work rate helps us keep teams penned in.



Rak Sakyi 6/10 – He often gets criticised for losing it when he runs at people or not always delivering but he will, like Hamer, try things and run at people. He had a few dribbles/runs but not much product sadly. He is a bit weak and gets shoved out of it but teams must sometimes double up on him so he takes space.



Campbell 5.5/10 – I think he has dropped off recently after a great season. Been in and out a bit and had a few injuries and sure all the stuff with his Dad’s court case can not have helped. He missed a big chance last week but got the start. Did a few pieces of link up but not sure he had any clear chances or managed to test the defence/keeper. He seemed to not have the movement that we had seen when he was in good form – the whole team was stationery when we had the ball.



Subs -



O’Hare 5.5/10 – Not sure we saw lots of him on the ball but he tried to get around the pitch and press as he always does.



Moore 6/10 – He frustrates me but another that has barely played so hard to be too critical. His touch and laboured body movement means it slows things down but he did occupy defenders and he had a few moments and then of course made the goal with a run (more of a jog!) and cross/shot that fell for BBD. I would like us to try him and Campbell maybe for a game up front (know that means no O’Hare that I have asked for!) in the final two just to see if this allows us to have more chances/score more. The number 10 role – 4-3-2-1 type formation is meaning defenders are having relatively easy games and we are not getting the ball in the box/keeping it (as not enough men forward/there) in there to lead to chances.



Brereton Diaz – I think he has been a poor signing and I do not think we keep him at the end of the season personally (unless we must). He looks so slow and unfit and not sure all this positional talk really changes this? However, he does nick you goals and got another today by making a lung bursting (not slow here to be fair) to tap home.



Robinson – Odd he came on if he had a hamstring injury? Surely he would not be in the squad at all with such a type of risk? It smacked to me of a polite way of saying he was dropped – maybe Wilder wanted this putting out so it did not upset JLT’s ego?



Seriki – I like him but can understand why he has gone for experience of Holding and Choudhury at the backline. Hopefully his pace/running can still have an impact in the run in – even if, it is from the bench.



Manager: Wilder 6/10 – We won the game and his changes during the game helped get the second but he is still guilty of making these almost Champ Manager like subs at set times. The performance was patchy/average again and we lacked fluency and attacking ideas. The play was slow and predictable but we scored two and kept a clean sheet he will say. We look a long way off a side that looks like it is about to win promotion to the top flight but then this is how we have been all season. The questions about his future have been ridiculous. Some (minority) have said he should be sacked now! That is madness. We have had a great season in terms of results/points even if aesthetically we have not been great at all. We have amassed a lot of points; he has changed he side and lowered the age in a short time. His signings in January have been poor and not had the impact we would have hoped for, I thought, but maybe have given us competition we did not have? Even if we do not go up, I would be amazed if he was moved on. Nor would I do that. I have concerns over his tactical ideas and his stubbornness but have to applaud what he has done in terms of where we are? I had us just above mid table so surpassed my expectations hugely. However, the style of play has not been good and if we do not go up, we need to evolve things again to make us hard to beat/compact etc (and all those things we were for much of the season) but also to have a more fluent style and simply be better to watch – the two things do not have to be excusive. Anyway, I digress as those questions will come in the summer and we may still go up of course – but even then the same questions – regardless of division – will be there.





Cardiff – Awful. They looked a side that knows they are probably going down. Had a few experienced men out but they looked lacking energy, confidence and ability. United were not great but they barely had an attack of note and whilst they stayed in the game, I never thought they were seriously threatening. The only worry was a ball may drop from a set play like has happened recently but Plymouth at least showed more attacking impetus in general play and looked like they had more fight. Cardiff did not even get stuck in (one booking?) and just sort of played a game with an almost ‘just get it done and get on the bus’ type attitude. They result was right (2-0 maybe flattered us a bit) and they look a side that may not get another point. As I say, we were not much better but at least showed a few moments of quality.



Opponent Man of the Match – Struggling. O’Dowda had a few runs forward and Alves on the left side also had a couple of runs but not sure I can think of one player who stood out?



Opponent Weak link – As with above – not sure anyone was awful – they all just gave sort of 4 or 5/10 performances. Rinomhota got robbed for the second so he can have this award!



Referee/Officials – Tony Harrington. Fussy with where things were taken but an easy game to referee. Thought there were a couple of moments - one for us and one for them where a player got tripped/contact in the box but carried on – be interesting if either had gone down. A booking each – one for them was incorrect as Campbell had hold of him first. The Choudhury one was clumsy. Not really a bad foul though all game and barely any contact at times.





Crowd – Flat and quiet as the rain came down. At times the Kop tried to find some noise but felt like an end of season game with nothing to play for – which was odd as both teams did have plenty at stake! Seemed a lot less there than the announced crowd. Funny to see the flag furling Lyon fans in the corner – trying their best to get involved and support the home team!

 

[Fjortoft's Aeroplane]

First?

 

[Fjortoft's Aeroplane]

Edit: and second.

 

[Fjortoft's Aeroplane]

Agree with almost all of that except re Brereton-Diaz. His strike rate has been decent enough whilst looking unfit. If theres reason to believe he can get fitter and sharper over the summer then I'd snap him up. Big IF though.

 

[Booker4]

United – We won the game. We scored two goals. We stopped the rot and at least the team will have some confidence back in the sense the bad run has ended. In terms of the performance and how we went about it? It was very average and that is being kind. We had a few fleeting moments (mainly Hamer although saw flashes from Peck and Burrows) but overall, we made really hard work of beating an abject Cardiff side. I thought that overall, we still looked a side lacking confidence and a real plan how to go through teams and create chances. We were not seriously worried at the other end but this was more down to how bad Cardiff were. Holding was steady and gave us a bit more assurance in here but as I say, the visitors were dreadful and looked nailed on to go down. The fact we have played the bottom two sides and we have barely looked better (were not better last week) in two consecutive games, is a concern when we now have to almost certainly face the playoffs in a few weeks.



The players seem almost tired and out of energy. Everything we do seems a struggle and the ball is moved so slowly. We rarely break on teams anymore but also when we have it, take too many touches and there is no movement (watched the team and mostly everyone was stood when we had it). Teams sit in and we just seem to give it to Hamer and hope he finds a bit of quality -with a run or a through ball. Campell has dropped off and Brewster is not working in this role. Rak Sakyi frustrates but as with last week, at least he will try and run forward and carry the ball/commit defenders. He and Hamer were the only ones I felt might create. The defence were ok and at least did not make any stupid mistakes but again I think the away side were just so toothless and had no pace (no idea why Willock did not start but he has not really worked out for them – a player I have always liked from his QPR days). The big lad Meite was held up well by our two CB’s but he had no help. United did what they had to do in terms of winning the game – which is fine to get the three points but with us having to play another 2 – maybe 3 games (so 6 left) now you would think – I wanted to see us find some form, cohesiveness and a plan that will allow us to get beyond sides. Some quick, one touch stuff, some play on the break maybe but we looked languid and a bit clueless. We deserved to win of course but it was hardly inspiring. The game itself was boring. If we were right up with Leeds/Burnley at the top – then the win would have been the most important thing – no matter how we did it but I wanted to see more and did not. Maybe Leeds could have lost and then the three points were all that mattered I suppose but I worry we are 43 games in and as a team (granted lost a few key players but other teams have) we are no better than the first game against Preston – maybe worse?



We got to Burnley and I do not expect us to get anything (we have lost all 3 games to them and Leeds and quite comfortably) sadly. Be horrible to watch them celebrating on their own turf (Moor- geddit?!) as they probably will seal promotion. However, huge credit to Parker who I did not rate but has done a great job really – yes, has a big and expensive squad but to go so long without losing, he has driven a great mentality into them. I think that it will be all done Monday as Leeds will have already beat Stoke almost certainly. At least then, we can regroup and use those last two games to rest a few maybe and start thinking about how we can get results to get to the final.



I am at the stage now where sadly, I have accepted what we are. It is frustrating but we are not going to play like we did v Coventry (maybe against Coventry again) in two/three consecutive games – as that has not happened all season. We have had games like Coventry/Boro maybe 1 in 10 and probably only around 3 or 4 fluent and dominant performances all season. We have deservedly won a number of games and ground out some/controlled some others – pre Souttar injury but we are not going to do that now. I think I am naïve to expect the side to suddenly do what Burnley/Leeds are doing and just dominate teams. We are not and have not been that team. The best we can hope is we can scrap our way through three games and get up and then invest in a big way. I worry that our form since Xmas has not been even as good as Bristol City/Coventry and thus for all this – we are the third best team – yes we are in the table – I am not sure we are much better than those teams currently. Not in terms of how we are playing.



I am sure many will say I am being negative but I feel that the playoffs – the four that will be in – that it will be very close. What we do have is a few players (Hamer the stand out but Cooper the other end another) who can find a moment of class – to help us nick tight games. It is sad that this is how it will probably be but all the talk about formations/selections now I am not sure it changes a huge much,. Wilder has changed the side and moved people around but not sure it has massively improved things really? Rak Sakyi needs to play as gives us a threat and Holding needs to remain in the side now. Maybe his introduction, if he stays fit, will help us defend better and not look as panicky.



He has not changed the formation – but he will not do this now and can see the argument for/against this but he will argue if we are to go up – it will be from how we have won those tight games playing the formation we have).



Maybe we surprise me (and many others) and win at Burnley – taking it to the last few weeks but everything I have seen so far suggests that is unlikely. I do not even see us getting a draw – and worry we might get a right going over from a side looking to finish things in emphatic fashion. For me, I just want to see a committed performance and one where we show why we have been right with them most of the season.



Ratings:



Cooper 6/10 – Did what he had to. Not sure he had a proper save to make. Caught a few headers and saw one flash past his post. His throwing (out) seems to be better than his kicking – as he threw one lovely ball out but kicked another straight out soon after!



Choudhury 6/10 - Thought he did ok. I was fine how he has played here before. Yes, he does not offer much going forward but neither do Clarke or Gilchrist. Seriki is young and it might be, we go with him here for the remainder. Once ironically he was too far forward but got back to make a great block. Silly booking second half.



Burrows 6.5/10 – First half he was not really forward at all and thought tentative again in possession. I think he had lost his confidence and taking too many touches to do things. Few times could have crosses and came back inside. Second half much better and more like the Burrows we had seen before. Showed some nice skill (two nutmegs!) and got in some crosses and had one shot blocked. Became an outlet for a number of our attacks.



Ahmedhodzic 6.5/10 – Thought that Holding’s presence allowed him to take the ball on more when he had it but he also won his battle with the big lad, Meite and won a few headers today. Steady enough.



Holding 6/10 – Started with a few sloppy touches but grew into the game and he got better and better. He was nothing flash but defended sensibly but also used the ball well. The concern is he could not last the full 90 minutes and that is a worry. Maybe he takes him out for Burnley with one eye on the games to come – and the game coming so quickly as odd as that sounds? He needs to remain in the side after that for me though as I believe he will be an upgrade on Robinson. Ridiculous it has took so long for him to get the playing time that Wilder said he was lacking!



Peck 7/10 – Another mature performance. Even in the defeats, I am not sure he has been that bad and carried on trying to get on the ball, get around the pitch and effect things. He is neat and tidy, tries to move it on quickly when he can and never hides. His shooting/finishing is poor though and needs to improve this side – had 2 or 3 decent changes today (one header too).



Souza 6.5/10 – He was able to play a full game which is positive after a stop start few months. He got his foot in, helped it on and got around. I thought we controlled midfield, even if we did not create a ton of chances. He just did what he had to do. A few silly fouls again though when he needed to just keep his position.



Hamer 7.5/10 – The best player on the pitch. He was not amazing but the only one that showed quality in terms of making things happen in the final third. Started the game poorly with two give aways but improved. He was always looking for the forward pass or trying to find space/send balls to free men. Tries the difficult stuff even if not everything works. The goal was due to his quick thinking and anticipation and took it well. The free kick was a fantastic effort too. After this he maybe did not have as much of an influence but when we had good moves, he was often around or orchestrating things. Without him, I worry how we create at all.



Brewster 5/10 – He had that nice spell around Weds/Coventry and scored two big goals but he is not a number 10 and not sure he even knows how to play this role. He had a few moments and link play but the game seemed to pass him by for long periods and Campbell was isolated. We did not go through the middle much at all. I would bring O’Hare back in here for the run in and get him back integrated (I know he was poor at Plymouth) as his pressing/work rate helps us keep teams penned in.



Rak Sakyi 6/10 – He often gets criticised for losing it when he runs at people or not always delivering but he will, like Hamer, try things and run at people. He had a few dribbles/runs but not much product sadly. He is a bit weak and gets shoved out of it but teams must sometimes double up on him so he takes space.



Campbell 5.5/10 – I think he has dropped off recently after a great season. Been in and out a bit and had a few injuries and sure all the stuff with his Dad’s court case can not have helped. He missed a big chance last week but got the start. Did a few pieces of link up but not sure he had any clear chances or managed to test the defence/keeper. He seemed to not have the movement that we had seen when he was in good form – the whole team was stationery when we had the ball.



Subs -



O’Hare 5.5/10 – Not sure we saw lots of him on the ball but he tried to get around the pitch and press as he always does.



Moore 6/10 – He frustrates me but another that has barely played so hard to be too critical. His touch and laboured body movement means it slows things down but he did occupy defenders and he had a few moments and then of course made the goal with a run (more of a jog!) and cross/shot that fell for BBD. I would like us to try him and Campbell maybe for a game up front (know that means no O’Hare that I have asked for!) in the final two just to see if this allows us to have more chances/score more. The number 10 role – 4-3-2-1 type formation is meaning defenders are having relatively easy games and we are not getting the ball in the box/keeping it (as not enough men forward/there) in there to lead to chances.



Brereton Diaz – I think he has been a poor signing and I do not think we keep him at the end of the season personally (unless we must). He looks so slow and unfit and not sure all this positional talk really changes this? However, he does nick you goals and got another today by making a lung bursting (not slow here to be fair) to tap home.



Robinson – Odd he came on if he had a hamstring injury? Surely he would not be in the squad at all with such a type of risk? It smacked to me of a polite way of saying he was dropped – maybe Wilder wanted this putting out so it did not upset JLT’s ego?



Seriki – I like him but can understand why he has gone for experience of Holding and Choudhury at the backline. Hopefully his pace/running can still have an impact in the run in – even if, it is from the bench.



Manager: Wilder 6/10 – We won the game and his changes during the game helped get the second but he is still guilty of making these almost Champ Manager like subs at set times. The performance was patchy/average again and we lacked fluency and attacking ideas. The play was slow and predictable but we scored two and kept a clean sheet he will say. We look a long way off a side that looks like it is about to win promotion to the top flight but then this is how we have been all season. The questions about his future have been ridiculous. Some (minority) have said he should be sacked now! That is madness. We have had a great season in terms of results/points even if aesthetically we have not been great at all. We have amassed a lot of points; he has changed he side and lowered the age in a short time. His signings in January have been poor and not had the impact we would have hoped for, I thought, but maybe have given us competition we did not have? Even if we do not go up, I would be amazed if he was moved on. Nor would I do that. I have concerns over his tactical ideas and his stubbornness but have to applaud what he has done in terms of where we are? I had us just above mid table so surpassed my expectations hugely. However, the style of play has not been good and if we do not go up, we need to evolve things again to make us hard to beat/compact etc (and all those things we were for much of the season) but also to have a more fluent style and simply be better to watch – the two things do not have to be excusive. Anyway, I digress as those questions will come in the summer and we may still go up of course – but even then the same questions – regardless of division – will be there.





Cardiff – Awful. They looked a side that knows they are probably going down. Had a few experienced men out but they looked lacking energy, confidence and ability. United were not great but they barely had an attack of note and whilst they stayed in the game, I never thought they were seriously threatening. The only worry was a ball may drop from a set play like has happened recently but Plymouth at least showed more attacking impetus in general play and looked like they had more fight. Cardiff did not even get stuck in (one booking?) and just sort of played a game with an almost ‘just get it done and get on the bus’ type attitude. They result was right (2-0 maybe flattered us a bit) and they look a side that may not get another point. As I say, we were not much better but at least showed a few moments of quality.



Opponent Man of the Match – Struggling. O’Dowda had a few runs forward and Alves on the left side also had a couple of runs but not sure I can think of one player who stood out?



Opponent Weak link – As with above – not sure anyone was awful – they all just gave sort of 4 or 5/10 performances. Rinomhota got robbed for the second so he can have this award!



Referee/Officials – Tony Harrington. Fussy with where things were taken but an easy game to referee. Thought there were a couple of moments - one for us and one for them where a player got tripped/contact in the box but carried on – be interesting if either had gone down. A booking each – one for them was incorrect as Campbell had hold of him first. The Choudhury one was clumsy. Not really a bad foul though all game and barely any contact at times.





Crowd – Flat and quiet as the rain came down. At times the Kop tried to find some noise but felt like an end of season game with nothing to play for – which was odd as both teams did have plenty at stake! Seemed a lot less there than the announced crowd. Funny to see the flag furling Lyon fans in the corner – trying their best to get involved and support the home team!

I think you're harsh on BBD. He's playing out of position on the right.

 

[Bell4]

Good report

Brewster position isn’t working as you point out . It’s like we have some lovely individual jigsaw pieces but the connections don’t fit no matter how the manager shakes the box and tips them out .

No one and I include Hamer is on top form and when you add this to the above you end up with not quite there .

We have overachieved no doubt , but we are the sum of our parts which I fear will not come together enough for the playoffs .

Hope I’m wrong of course

The crowd was good imo in terms of numbers and noise tbh - the ref had a really good game and let the players play and wasn’t over fussy

UTB

 

[bakeblade]

United – We won the game. We scored two goals. We stopped the rot and at least the team will have some confidence back in the sense the bad run has ended. In terms of the performance and how we went about it? It was very average and that is being kind. We had a few fleeting moments (mainly Hamer although saw flashes from Peck and Burrows) but overall, we made really hard work of beating an abject Cardiff side. I thought that overall, we still looked a side lacking confidence and a real plan how to go through teams and create chances. We were not seriously worried at the other end but this was more down to how bad Cardiff were. Holding was steady and gave us a bit more assurance in here but as I say, the visitors were dreadful and looked nailed on to go down. The fact we have played the bottom two sides and we have barely looked better (were not better last week) in two consecutive games, is a concern when we now have to almost certainly face the playoffs in a few weeks.



The players seem almost tired and out of energy. Everything we do seems a struggle and the ball is moved so slowly. We rarely break on teams anymore but also when we have it, take too many touches and there is no movement (watched the team and mostly everyone was stood when we had it). Teams sit in and we just seem to give it to Hamer and hope he finds a bit of quality -with a run or a through ball. Campell has dropped off and Brewster is not working in this role. Rak Sakyi frustrates but as with last week, at least he will try and run forward and carry the ball/commit defenders. He and Hamer were the only ones I felt might create. The defence were ok and at least did not make any stupid mistakes but again I think the away side were just so toothless and had no pace (no idea why Willock did not start but he has not really worked out for them – a player I have always liked from his QPR days). The big lad Meite was held up well by our two CB’s but he had no help. United did what they had to do in terms of winning the game – which is fine to get the three points but with us having to play another 2 – maybe 3 games (so 6 left) now you would think – I wanted to see us find some form, cohesiveness and a plan that will allow us to get beyond sides. Some quick, one touch stuff, some play on the break maybe but we looked languid and a bit clueless. We deserved to win of course but it was hardly inspiring. The game itself was boring. If we were right up with Leeds/Burnley at the top – then the win would have been the most important thing – no matter how we did it but I wanted to see more and did not. Maybe Leeds could have lost and then the three points were all that mattered I suppose but I worry we are 43 games in and as a team (granted lost a few key players but other teams have) we are no better than the first game against Preston – maybe worse?



We got to Burnley and I do not expect us to get anything (we have lost all 3 games to them and Leeds and quite comfortably) sadly. Be horrible to watch them celebrating on their own turf (Moor- geddit?!) as they probably will seal promotion. However, huge credit to Parker who I did not rate but has done a great job really – yes, has a big and expensive squad but to go so long without losing, he has driven a great mentality into them. I think that it will be all done Monday as Leeds will have already beat Stoke almost certainly. At least then, we can regroup and use those last two games to rest a few maybe and start thinking about how we can get results to get to the final.



I am at the stage now where sadly, I have accepted what we are. It is frustrating but we are not going to play like we did v Coventry (maybe against Coventry again) in two/three consecutive games – as that has not happened all season. We have had games like Coventry/Boro maybe 1 in 10 and probably only around 3 or 4 fluent and dominant performances all season. We have deservedly won a number of games and ground out some/controlled some others – pre Souttar injury but we are not going to do that now. I think I am naïve to expect the side to suddenly do what Burnley/Leeds are doing and just dominate teams. We are not and have not been that team. The best we can hope is we can scrap our way through three games and get up and then invest in a big way. I worry that our form since Xmas has not been even as good as Bristol City/Coventry and thus for all this – we are the third best team – yes we are in the table – I am not sure we are much better than those teams currently. Not in terms of how we are playing.



I am sure many will say I am being negative but I feel that the playoffs – the four that will be in – that it will be very close. What we do have is a few players (Hamer the stand out but Cooper the other end another) who can find a moment of class – to help us nick tight games. It is sad that this is how it will probably be but all the talk about formations/selections now I am not sure it changes a huge much,. Wilder has changed the side and moved people around but not sure it has massively improved things really? Rak Sakyi needs to play as gives us a threat and Holding needs to remain in the side now. Maybe his introduction, if he stays fit, will help us defend better and not look as panicky.



He has not changed the formation – but he will not do this now and can see the argument for/against this but he will argue if we are to go up – it will be from how we have won those tight games playing the formation we have).



Maybe we surprise me (and many others) and win at Burnley – taking it to the last few weeks but everything I have seen so far suggests that is unlikely. I do not even see us getting a draw – and worry we might get a right going over from a side looking to finish things in emphatic fashion. For me, I just want to see a committed performance and one where we show why we have been right with them most of the season.



Ratings:



Cooper 6/10 – Did what he had to. Not sure he had a proper save to make. Caught a few headers and saw one flash past his post. His throwing (out) seems to be better than his kicking – as he threw one lovely ball out but kicked another straight out soon after!



Choudhury 6/10 - Thought he did ok. I was fine how he has played here before. Yes, he does not offer much going forward but neither do Clarke or Gilchrist. Seriki is young and it might be, we go with him here for the remainder. Once ironically he was too far forward but got back to make a great block. Silly booking second half.



Burrows 6.5/10 – First half he was not really forward at all and thought tentative again in possession. I think he had lost his confidence and taking too many touches to do things. Few times could have crosses and came back inside. Second half much better and more like the Burrows we had seen before. Showed some nice skill (two nutmegs!) and got in some crosses and had one shot blocked. Became an outlet for a number of our attacks.



Ahmedhodzic 6.5/10 – Thought that Holding’s presence allowed him to take the ball on more when he had it but he also won his battle with the big lad, Meite and won a few headers today. Steady enough.



Holding 6/10 – Started with a few sloppy touches but grew into the game and he got better and better. He was nothing flash but defended sensibly but also used the ball well. The concern is he could not last the full 90 minutes and that is a worry. Maybe he takes him out for Burnley with one eye on the games to come – and the game coming so quickly as odd as that sounds? He needs to remain in the side after that for me though as I believe he will be an upgrade on Robinson. Ridiculous it has took so long for him to get the playing time that Wilder said he was lacking!



Peck 7/10 – Another mature performance. Even in the defeats, I am not sure he has been that bad and carried on trying to get on the ball, get around the pitch and effect things. He is neat and tidy, tries to move it on quickly when he can and never hides. His shooting/finishing is poor though and needs to improve this side – had 2 or 3 decent changes today (one header too).



Souza 6.5/10 – He was able to play a full game which is positive after a stop start few months. He got his foot in, helped it on and got around. I thought we controlled midfield, even if we did not create a ton of chances. He just did what he had to do. A few silly fouls again though when he needed to just keep his position.



Hamer 7.5/10 – The best player on the pitch. He was not amazing but the only one that showed quality in terms of making things happen in the final third. Started the game poorly with two give aways but improved. He was always looking for the forward pass or trying to find space/send balls to free men. Tries the difficult stuff even if not everything works. The goal was due to his quick thinking and anticipation and took it well. The free kick was a fantastic effort too. After this he maybe did not have as much of an influence but when we had good moves, he was often around or orchestrating things. Without him, I worry how we create at all.



Brewster 5/10 – He had that nice spell around Weds/Coventry and scored two big goals but he is not a number 10 and not sure he even knows how to play this role. He had a few moments and link play but the game seemed to pass him by for long periods and Campbell was isolated. We did not go through the middle much at all. I would bring O’Hare back in here for the run in and get him back integrated (I know he was poor at Plymouth) as his pressing/work rate helps us keep teams penned in.



Rak Sakyi 6/10 – He often gets criticised for losing it when he runs at people or not always delivering but he will, like Hamer, try things and run at people. He had a few dribbles/runs but not much product sadly. He is a bit weak and gets shoved out of it but teams must sometimes double up on him so he takes space.



Campbell 5.5/10 – I think he has dropped off recently after a great season. Been in and out a bit and had a few injuries and sure all the stuff with his Dad’s court case can not have helped. He missed a big chance last week but got the start. Did a few pieces of link up but not sure he had any clear chances or managed to test the defence/keeper. He seemed to not have the movement that we had seen when he was in good form – the whole team was stationery when we had the ball.



Subs -



O’Hare 5.5/10 – Not sure we saw lots of him on the ball but he tried to get around the pitch and press as he always does.



Moore 6/10 – He frustrates me but another that has barely played so hard to be too critical. His touch and laboured body movement means it slows things down but he did occupy defenders and he had a few moments and then of course made the goal with a run (more of a jog!) and cross/shot that fell for BBD. I would like us to try him and Campbell maybe for a game up front (know that means no O’Hare that I have asked for!) in the final two just to see if this allows us to have more chances/score more. The number 10 role – 4-3-2-1 type formation is meaning defenders are having relatively easy games and we are not getting the ball in the box/keeping it (as not enough men forward/there) in there to lead to chances.



Brereton Diaz – I think he has been a poor signing and I do not think we keep him at the end of the season personally (unless we must). He looks so slow and unfit and not sure all this positional talk really changes this? However, he does nick you goals and got another today by making a lung bursting (not slow here to be fair) to tap home.



Robinson – Odd he came on if he had a hamstring injury? Surely he would not be in the squad at all with such a type of risk? It smacked to me of a polite way of saying he was dropped – maybe Wilder wanted this putting out so it did not upset JLT’s ego?



Seriki – I like him but can understand why he has gone for experience of Holding and Choudhury at the backline. Hopefully his pace/running can still have an impact in the run in – even if, it is from the bench.



Manager: Wilder 6/10 – We won the game and his changes during the game helped get the second but he is still guilty of making these almost Champ Manager like subs at set times. The performance was patchy/average again and we lacked fluency and attacking ideas. The play was slow and predictable but we scored two and kept a clean sheet he will say. We look a long way off a side that looks like it is about to win promotion to the top flight but then this is how we have been all season. The questions about his future have been ridiculous. Some (minority) have said he should be sacked now! That is madness. We have had a great season in terms of results/points even if aesthetically we have not been great at all. We have amassed a lot of points; he has changed he side and lowered the age in a short time. His signings in January have been poor and not had the impact we would have hoped for, I thought, but maybe have given us competition we did not have? Even if we do not go up, I would be amazed if he was moved on. Nor would I do that. I have concerns over his tactical ideas and his stubbornness but have to applaud what he has done in terms of where we are? I had us just above mid table so surpassed my expectations hugely. However, the style of play has not been good and if we do not go up, we need to evolve things again to make us hard to beat/compact etc (and all those things we were for much of the season) but also to have a more fluent style and simply be better to watch – the two things do not have to be excusive. Anyway, I digress as those questions will come in the summer and we may still go up of course – but even then the same questions – regardless of division – will be there.





Cardiff – Awful. They looked a side that knows they are probably going down. Had a few experienced men out but they looked lacking energy, confidence and ability. United were not great but they barely had an attack of note and whilst they stayed in the game, I never thought they were seriously threatening. The only worry was a ball may drop from a set play like has happened recently but Plymouth at least showed more attacking impetus in general play and looked like they had more fight. Cardiff did not even get stuck in (one booking?) and just sort of played a game with an almost ‘just get it done and get on the bus’ type attitude. They result was right (2-0 maybe flattered us a bit) and they look a side that may not get another point. As I say, we were not much better but at least showed a few moments of quality.



Opponent Man of the Match – Struggling. O’Dowda had a few runs forward and Alves on the left side also had a couple of runs but not sure I can think of one player who stood out?



Opponent Weak link – As with above – not sure anyone was awful – they all just gave sort of 4 or 5/10 performances. Rinomhota got robbed for the second so he can have this award!



Referee/Officials – Tony Harrington. Fussy with where things were taken but an easy game to referee. Thought there were a couple of moments - one for us and one for them where a player got tripped/contact in the box but carried on – be interesting if either had gone down. A booking each – one for them was incorrect as Campbell had hold of him first. The Choudhury one was clumsy. Not really a bad foul though all game and barely any contact at times.





Crowd – Flat and quiet as the rain came down. At times the Kop tried to find some noise but felt like an end of season game with nothing to play for – which was odd as both teams did have plenty at stake! Seemed a lot less there than the announced crowd. Funny to see the flag furling Lyon fans in the corner – trying their best to get involved and support the home team!

Spot on regarding Holding, really poor and baffling management from Wilder by not getting him up to match fitness the last few months.
He's clearly an upgrade on Robinson. Very Tricky call on Monday, if Holding plays we have more chance of beating Burnley and then autos are back on.
However if he breaks down, we could be going into the playoffs with Anel and Robbo - not a good combo.

 

[Harry's Game]

It was a performance like most others this season .. a bit slow … a bit ponderous…. not putting the game to bed until late on.. some moments of good individual skill from players like Hamer and Peck…

Anyone expecting us to suddenly play front foot high tempo attacking football in the penultimate home game of the season when we haven’t in almost all the others need to get their heads checked.

Personally having seen us beat the worst side I’ve seen at the Lane this season 2-0 I feel no different about the final outcome of the season than I did before kick off .. that being I just don’t see that this group of players or coaching staff will be able to successfully navigate three games against two of the better sides in the division and win the play offs.

 

[Addison]

The positives we won and stopped the slide. Holding started and the impact on Anel was there for all to see. The negatives the manager suggesting Holdings fitness needed to be reviewed and JLT's absence was down to injury but he would be fit for Monday. The lack of game time is solely down to the manager. If the change had been made after the Oxford debacle we would still be still up there imo with Weeds and Burnley instead of being adrift playing catch up. CW still managed to shoe horn one of his favourites into the team Brewster and he was invisible.

It is this irrational approach to team selection added to the blinkered view the 4-2-3-1 system must be applied to every game that frustrates. Yesterday a poor team saw how we had played the previous 3 games applied a low block and hoofwaffen. We coped with the hoof due to the centre back pairing which due praise from the manager. Yet again our slow build up play and the lack of wide players capable of getting to the bye line round the back of the defence was there for all to see. There were a number of times players got to the edge of the box then stopped and passed sideways or back instead of driving to the line. It has to be the way they are being coached. This desire to try and walk the ball into the net with flicks and tricks just isn't working anymore. The only player capable of getting to the bye line at pace and crossing with his dominant foot is Seriki but the manager doesn't seem to trust him. Hamer managed to do it when he was belatedly moved to the right but it is this insistence of playing with inverted wide players that allows the opposition to sit deep in the knowledge we have the worst cross ratio in the division.

Why do we have to wait 85 minutes before we go into a 3 in the middle and bring Seriki on at RB. It was obvious Cardiff had some momentum in terms of possession yet we sat back as we have done all season with the message protect what you've got. Its insipid its dull and uninspiring and gives cause for concern that the season and the players have petered out at a time when we need to reset for the mini league play offs.

Agree its not the time to make a managerial change. We have a slim chance against Burnley but we failed to cope with their pacey wingers last time out. Anel was inexplicably not selected, Campbell was unfit as was Souza who shouldn't have started and went off at half time. Brownhill ran the game as a consequence. With all our key players fit and firing on all cylinders and that includes Holding we have a chance to cause an upset but it is more of a forlorn hope than reality based on recent performances and management idiosyncrasies.

 

[John Street West Terrace]

I suppose it’s all about results at this end of the campaign so from that angle I would have definitely took a 2-0 win beforehand …. Performance wise as I said in another thread I thought it was a slow and turgid & thought we again highlighted how we struggle against sides that sit deep even poor ones , I think if Hamer hadn’t slotted that one in on the stroke of HT things might have got a bit fraught as the game went on ?
Thought Campbell looked so isolated at times up top , O’Hares introduction for Brewster definitely improved us both offensively & harrying there back four . Midfield wise I think Peck did well and showed a lot more zest than his partner , with Vini looking leggy at times . Holding brought us some assurance at the back thst had been missing last week.
MOTM Choudhary for me , played very well & the timing of the tackle to stop the lad who was in on goal on the break was absolutely top class ..
Anyway onward to Monday for the next crunch game

 

[Putney Blade]

6/10 for Moore is high. Watched him carefully. Slow, ponderous, repeatedly gave the ball away. Impact player only when teams decide to go direct. Terrible signing.

 

[Newbury Blade]

I think you're harsh on BBD. He's playing out of position on the right.

If you were at the game, you may have noticed he played on the left.

 

[Deadbat]

The positives we won and stopped the slide. Holding started and the impact on Anel was there for all to see. The negatives the manager suggesting Holdings fitness needed to be reviewed and JLT's absence was down to injury but he would be fit for Monday. The lack of game time is solely down to the manager. If the change had been made after the Oxford debacle we would still be still up there imo with Weeds and Burnley instead of being adrift playing catch up. CW still managed to shoe horn one of his favourites into the team Brewster and he was invisible.

It is this irrational approach to team selection added to the blinkered view the 4-2-3-1 system must be applied to every game that frustrates. Yesterday a poor team saw how we had played the previous 3 games applied a low block and hoofwaffen. We coped with the hoof due to the centre back pairing which due praise from the manager. Yet again our slow build up play and the lack of wide players capable of getting to the bye line round the back of the defence was there for all to see. There were a number of times players got to the edge of the box then stopped and passed sideways or back instead of driving to the line. It has to be the way they are being coached. This desire to try and walk the ball into the net with flicks and tricks just isn't working anymore. The only player capable of getting to the bye line at pace and crossing with his dominant foot is Seriki but the manager doesn't seem to trust him. Hamer managed to do it when he was belatedly moved to the right but it is this insistence of playing with inverted wide players that allows the opposition to sit deep in the knowledge we have the worst cross ratio in the division.

Why do we have to wait 85 minutes before we go into a 3 in the middle and bring Seriki on at RB. It was obvious Cardiff had some momentum in terms of possession yet we sat back as we have done all season with the message protect what you've got. Its insipid its dull and uninspiring and gives cause for concern that the season and the players have petered out at a time when we need to reset for the mini league play offs.

Agree its not the time to make a managerial change. We have a slim chance against Burnley but we failed to cope with their pacey wingers last time out. Anel was inexplicably not selected, Campbell was unfit as was Souza who shouldn't have started and went off at half time. Brownhill ran the game as a consequence. With all our key players fit and firing on all cylinders and that includes Holding we have a chance to cause an upset but it is more of a forlorn hope than reality based on recent performances and management idiosyncrasies.

Spot on

 

[Racing Blade]

Agree with you on BBD. He looks like he doesn't enjoy playing football anymore.

Not a good option for us, at the end of the season if, indeed, we aren't under obligation to sign him.

 

[Espania blade]

If you were at the game, you may have noticed he played on the left.

When he scored he came in from the right

 

[Maurice Maurice]

Have to agree on BBD, his touch is just about good enough at this level but taking 4 touches to get an easy ball under control, as he did on one occasion in the 2nd half, just won't cut it at the higher level.

We'll probably get pelters for saying that and I know he seems a decent bloke but it's all about getting a squad full of top quality players and for me, he isn't one.

 

[dc_blade]

Fully agree with your assessment of the game Deadbat. We won and stopped the rot I suppose, but I'm not sure the performance was any better than the three we lost. We were playing worse opposition, at least.

This could've been any one of 12 or 15 home games this season. Solid but uninspired, moving the ball around slowly to "wear them down," not creating much, sneaking a win due to moments of quality from players that 20 other teams in the division couldn't afford.

Wilder has got a lot right this season but I personally cannot wait to see the back of this style of football.

 

[Cheets]

I was surprised by how big the crowd was. The BLUT was nearly full and it's usually empty. I just assumed people had bought tickets before we did our Devon Loch.

 

[Champagneblade]

The good things, albeit against poor opposition, was that the defender looked at least trustworthy for the first time in ages. Surely that bodes well for the Play Offs?

Peck really stepped up and as Souza improves his fitness it should also allow us to win the midfield battles in games to come. I like Peck. For one so young, he never hides.

Hamer incredibly frustrating first half until the goal but then started to show his quality. He’s potentially the reason we’ll win the Play Offs. Still puts in some wild challenges and good he managed to avoid a yellow. Like you I feel Rak-Sakyi and O’Hare have to make up the attacking midfield. O’Hare is the best player off the ball we’ve have since Ndiaye and although I find his move a little predictable now, Rak-Sakyi does take men on and he is a proven scorer.

Up front I think Cannon will have to get used to being unused sub. It’s good Wilder bought Moore on first attacking sub though I’d still start Campbell, I’d consider Brereton-Diaz as centre forward rather than winger. He’s got size and scoring.

Cardiff were woeful. They’re going down. Plymouth showed a lot more fight.

Some positives. That three match streak has ended the top two run, but it Wouk be good if we could beat Burnley and Robins do us a favour at Leeds so we can see how they react under the same pressure that we couldn’t cope with.

 

[Houston_Blade]

Have to agree on BBD, his touch is just about good enough at this level but taking 4 touches to get an easy ball under control, as he did on one occasion in the 2nd half, just won't cut it at the higher level.

We'll probably get pelters for saying that and I know he seems a decent bloke but it's all about getting a squad full of top quality players and for me, he isn't one.

Which player looks to be the better one statistically? Both play for us, one of them you advocate for, the other you’ve just said isn’t ‘top quality’ but has better stats than the one you advocate for?!

 

[Newbury Blade]

When he scored he came in from the right

He did. Apart from that he played on the left, quite deep.

 

[Maurice Maurice]

Which player looks to be the better one statistically? Both play for us, one of them you advocate for, the other you’ve just said isn’t ‘top quality’ but has better stats than the one you advocate for?!

View attachment 208991View attachment 208992

Show me all the stats you like, his ball control's still poor and he's not Premier League quality.

 

[bakeblade]

When he scored he came in from the right

No he didn't, he started his run from the left. Good run that showed pace and desire

 

[The Bear]

United – We won the game. We scored two goals. We stopped the rot and at least the team will have some confidence back in the sense the bad run has ended. In terms of the performance and how we went about it? It was very average and that is being kind. We had a few fleeting moments (mainly Hamer although saw flashes from Peck and Burrows) but overall, we made really hard work of beating an abject Cardiff side. I thought that overall, we still looked a side lacking confidence and a real plan how to go through teams and create chances. We were not seriously worried at the other end but this was more down to how bad Cardiff were. Holding was steady and gave us a bit more assurance in here but as I say, the visitors were dreadful and looked nailed on to go down. The fact we have played the bottom two sides and we have barely looked better (were not better last week) in two consecutive games, is a concern when we now have to almost certainly face the playoffs in a few weeks.



The players seem almost tired and out of energy. Everything we do seems a struggle and the ball is moved so slowly. We rarely break on teams anymore but also when we have it, take too many touches and there is no movement (watched the team and mostly everyone was stood when we had it). Teams sit in and we just seem to give it to Hamer and hope he finds a bit of quality -with a run or a through ball. Campell has dropped off and Brewster is not working in this role. Rak Sakyi frustrates but as with last week, at least he will try and run forward and carry the ball/commit defenders. He and Hamer were the only ones I felt might create. The defence were ok and at least did not make any stupid mistakes but again I think the away side were just so toothless and had no pace (no idea why Willock did not start but he has not really worked out for them – a player I have always liked from his QPR days). The big lad Meite was held up well by our two CB’s but he had no help. United did what they had to do in terms of winning the game – which is fine to get the three points but with us having to play another 2 – maybe 3 games (so 6 left) now you would think – I wanted to see us find some form, cohesiveness and a plan that will allow us to get beyond sides. Some quick, one touch stuff, some play on the break maybe but we looked languid and a bit clueless. We deserved to win of course but it was hardly inspiring. The game itself was boring. If we were right up with Leeds/Burnley at the top – then the win would have been the most important thing – no matter how we did it but I wanted to see more and did not. Maybe Leeds could have lost and then the three points were all that mattered I suppose but I worry we are 43 games in and as a team (granted lost a few key players but other teams have) we are no better than the first game against Preston – maybe worse?



We got to Burnley and I do not expect us to get anything (we have lost all 3 games to them and Leeds and quite comfortably) sadly. Be horrible to watch them celebrating on their own turf (Moor- geddit?!) as they probably will seal promotion. However, huge credit to Parker who I did not rate but has done a great job really – yes, has a big and expensive squad but to go so long without losing, he has driven a great mentality into them. I think that it will be all done Monday as Leeds will have already beat Stoke almost certainly. At least then, we can regroup and use those last two games to rest a few maybe and start thinking about how we can get results to get to the final.



I am at the stage now where sadly, I have accepted what we are. It is frustrating but we are not going to play like we did v Coventry (maybe against Coventry again) in two/three consecutive games – as that has not happened all season. We have had games like Coventry/Boro maybe 1 in 10 and probably only around 3 or 4 fluent and dominant performances all season. We have deservedly won a number of games and ground out some/controlled some others – pre Souttar injury but we are not going to do that now. I think I am naïve to expect the side to suddenly do what Burnley/Leeds are doing and just dominate teams. We are not and have not been that team. The best we can hope is we can scrap our way through three games and get up and then invest in a big way. I worry that our form since Xmas has not been even as good as Bristol City/Coventry and thus for all this – we are the third best team – yes we are in the table – I am not sure we are much better than those teams currently. Not in terms of how we are playing.



I am sure many will say I am being negative but I feel that the playoffs – the four that will be in – that it will be very close. What we do have is a few players (Hamer the stand out but Cooper the other end another) who can find a moment of class – to help us nick tight games. It is sad that this is how it will probably be but all the talk about formations/selections now I am not sure it changes a huge much,. Wilder has changed the side and moved people around but not sure it has massively improved things really? Rak Sakyi needs to play as gives us a threat and Holding needs to remain in the side now. Maybe his introduction, if he stays fit, will help us defend better and not look as panicky.



He has not changed the formation – but he will not do this now and can see the argument for/against this but he will argue if we are to go up – it will be from how we have won those tight games playing the formation we have).



Maybe we surprise me (and many others) and win at Burnley – taking it to the last few weeks but everything I have seen so far suggests that is unlikely. I do not even see us getting a draw – and worry we might get a right going over from a side looking to finish things in emphatic fashion. For me, I just want to see a committed performance and one where we show why we have been right with them most of the season.



Ratings:



Cooper 6/10 – Did what he had to. Not sure he had a proper save to make. Caught a few headers and saw one flash past his post. His throwing (out) seems to be better than his kicking – as he threw one lovely ball out but kicked another straight out soon after!



Choudhury 6/10 - Thought he did ok. I was fine how he has played here before. Yes, he does not offer much going forward but neither do Clarke or Gilchrist. Seriki is young and it might be, we go with him here for the remainder. Once ironically he was too far forward but got back to make a great block. Silly booking second half.



Burrows 6.5/10 – First half he was not really forward at all and thought tentative again in possession. I think he had lost his confidence and taking too many touches to do things. Few times could have crosses and came back inside. Second half much better and more like the Burrows we had seen before. Showed some nice skill (two nutmegs!) and got in some crosses and had one shot blocked. Became an outlet for a number of our attacks.



Ahmedhodzic 6.5/10 – Thought that Holding’s presence allowed him to take the ball on more when he had it but he also won his battle with the big lad, Meite and won a few headers today. Steady enough.



Holding 6/10 – Started with a few sloppy touches but grew into the game and he got better and better. He was nothing flash but defended sensibly but also used the ball well. The concern is he could not last the full 90 minutes and that is a worry. Maybe he takes him out for Burnley with one eye on the games to come – and the game coming so quickly as odd as that sounds? He needs to remain in the side after that for me though as I believe he will be an upgrade on Robinson. Ridiculous it has took so long for him to get the playing time that Wilder said he was lacking!



Peck 7/10 – Another mature performance. Even in the defeats, I am not sure he has been that bad and carried on trying to get on the ball, get around the pitch and effect things. He is neat and tidy, tries to move it on quickly when he can and never hides. His shooting/finishing is poor though and needs to improve this side – had 2 or 3 decent changes today (one header too).



Souza 6.5/10 – He was able to play a full game which is positive after a stop start few months. He got his foot in, helped it on and got around. I thought we controlled midfield, even if we did not create a ton of chances. He just did what he had to do. A few silly fouls again though when he needed to just keep his position.



Hamer 7.5/10 – The best player on the pitch. He was not amazing but the only one that showed quality in terms of making things happen in the final third. Started the game poorly with two give aways but improved. He was always looking for the forward pass or trying to find space/send balls to free men. Tries the difficult stuff even if not everything works. The goal was due to his quick thinking and anticipation and took it well. The free kick was a fantastic effort too. After this he maybe did not have as much of an influence but when we had good moves, he was often around or orchestrating things. Without him, I worry how we create at all.



Brewster 5/10 – He had that nice spell around Weds/Coventry and scored two big goals but he is not a number 10 and not sure he even knows how to play this role. He had a few moments and link play but the game seemed to pass him by for long periods and Campbell was isolated. We did not go through the middle much at all. I would bring O’Hare back in here for the run in and get him back integrated (I know he was poor at Plymouth) as his pressing/work rate helps us keep teams penned in.



Rak Sakyi 6/10 – He often gets criticised for losing it when he runs at people or not always delivering but he will, like Hamer, try things and run at people. He had a few dribbles/runs but not much product sadly. He is a bit weak and gets shoved out of it but teams must sometimes double up on him so he takes space.



Campbell 5.5/10 – I think he has dropped off recently after a great season. Been in and out a bit and had a few injuries and sure all the stuff with his Dad’s court case can not have helped. He missed a big chance last week but got the start. Did a few pieces of link up but not sure he had any clear chances or managed to test the defence/keeper. He seemed to not have the movement that we had seen when he was in good form – the whole team was stationery when we had the ball.



Subs -



O’Hare 5.5/10 – Not sure we saw lots of him on the ball but he tried to get around the pitch and press as he always does.



Moore 6/10 – He frustrates me but another that has barely played so hard to be too critical. His touch and laboured body movement means it slows things down but he did occupy defenders and he had a few moments and then of course made the goal with a run (more of a jog!) and cross/shot that fell for BBD. I would like us to try him and Campbell maybe for a game up front (know that means no O’Hare that I have asked for!) in the final two just to see if this allows us to have more chances/score more. The number 10 role – 4-3-2-1 type formation is meaning defenders are having relatively easy games and we are not getting the ball in the box/keeping it (as not enough men forward/there) in there to lead to chances.



Brereton Diaz – I think he has been a poor signing and I do not think we keep him at the end of the season personally (unless we must). He looks so slow and unfit and not sure all this positional talk really changes this? However, he does nick you goals and got another today by making a lung bursting (not slow here to be fair) to tap home.



Robinson – Odd he came on if he had a hamstring injury? Surely he would not be in the squad at all with such a type of risk? It smacked to me of a polite way of saying he was dropped – maybe Wilder wanted this putting out so it did not upset JLT’s ego?



Seriki – I like him but can understand why he has gone for experience of Holding and Choudhury at the backline. Hopefully his pace/running can still have an impact in the run in – even if, it is from the bench.



Manager: Wilder 6/10 – We won the game and his changes during the game helped get the second but he is still guilty of making these almost Champ Manager like subs at set times. The performance was patchy/average again and we lacked fluency and attacking ideas. The play was slow and predictable but we scored two and kept a clean sheet he will say. We look a long way off a side that looks like it is about to win promotion to the top flight but then this is how we have been all season. The questions about his future have been ridiculous. Some (minority) have said he should be sacked now! That is madness. We have had a great season in terms of results/points even if aesthetically we have not been great at all. We have amassed a lot of points; he has changed he side and lowered the age in a short time. His signings in January have been poor and not had the impact we would have hoped for, I thought, but maybe have given us competition we did not have? Even if we do not go up, I would be amazed if he was moved on. Nor would I do that. I have concerns over his tactical ideas and his stubbornness but have to applaud what he has done in terms of where we are? I had us just above mid table so surpassed my expectations hugely. However, the style of play has not been good and if we do not go up, we need to evolve things again to make us hard to beat/compact etc (and all those things we were for much of the season) but also to have a more fluent style and simply be better to watch – the two things do not have to be excusive. Anyway, I digress as those questions will come in the summer and we may still go up of course – but even then the same questions – regardless of division – will be there.





Cardiff – Awful. They looked a side that knows they are probably going down. Had a few experienced men out but they looked lacking energy, confidence and ability. United were not great but they barely had an attack of note and whilst they stayed in the game, I never thought they were seriously threatening. The only worry was a ball may drop from a set play like has happened recently but Plymouth at least showed more attacking impetus in general play and looked like they had more fight. Cardiff did not even get stuck in (one booking?) and just sort of played a game with an almost ‘just get it done and get on the bus’ type attitude. They result was right (2-0 maybe flattered us a bit) and they look a side that may not get another point. As I say, we were not much better but at least showed a few moments of quality.



Opponent Man of the Match – Struggling. O’Dowda had a few runs forward and Alves on the left side also had a couple of runs but not sure I can think of one player who stood out?



Opponent Weak link – As with above – not sure anyone was awful – they all just gave sort of 4 or 5/10 performances. Rinomhota got robbed for the second so he can have this award!



Referee/Officials – Tony Harrington. Fussy with where things were taken but an easy game to referee. Thought there were a couple of moments - one for us and one for them where a player got tripped/contact in the box but carried on – be interesting if either had gone down. A booking each – one for them was incorrect as Campbell had hold of him first. The Choudhury one was clumsy. Not really a bad foul though all game and barely any contact at times.





Crowd – Flat and quiet as the rain came down. At times the Kop tried to find some noise but felt like an end of season game with nothing to play for – which was odd as both teams did have plenty at stake! Seemed a lot less there than the announced crowd. Funny to see the flag furling Lyon fans in the corner – trying their best to get involved and support the home team!

Holding was a 7. Thought he was good and brought a calmness and maturity of play that has been missing from the defence for months.

Also Rak-Saki was better than a 6. He really tried stuff and was a bit unlucky. The opposition clearly target him but he does try. Thought Peck you scored too high on and Brewster was anonymous again. His passing is utterly woeful and is/was responsible for a lot of moves breaking down.

 

[Houston_Blade]

Show me all the stats you like, his ball control's still poor and he's not Premier League quality.

Only 1 or 2 of our players are and then only in a decent side that will use their strengths appropriately. I just it odd that you talk of needing “a squad full of quality players” and still advocate for one of our worst ever signings over someone who’s scored a lot more PL goals than he has.

 

[Maurice Maurice]

Only 1 or 2 of our players are and then only in a decent side that will use their strengths appropriately. I just it odd that you talk of needing “a squad full of quality players” and still advocate for one of our worst ever signings over someone who’s scored a lot more PL goals than he has.

Can you be a little more special please.

 

[Houston_Blade]

Can you be a little more special please.

Good comeback

 

[Maurice Maurice]

Good comeback

?

 

[Houston_Blade]

?

It appeared you were calling me ‘special’?!