Lessons to be learnt

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Now the dust has settled on a very strange game yesterday, we all have views on what conclusions to draw. To me, one thing stands out above everything else - the first few minutes after half-time, and I think human nature was the main factor. United had played really good football in the first half, Gillingham had presented no threat, and it was too easy to think that we would carry on as before after half-time. And no matter who you are and what is said in the dressing-room, a little complacency sets in. (Think Andy Murray losing last night after Djokavic was knocked out of the Australian Open). Those first minutes after half-time were shocking, right through the team. We didn't react to their change of set-up/mentality, and did not get hold of the ball, win it back ,press, anything. The defence was no worse than the rest of the team. When we conceded, we began to play again, up to the last few minutes where the match deteriorated.
We possibly lack leaders at the back and in midfield. It is difficult for Billy up front to play that role when the ball is not getting forward. Maybe Jake Wright would improve that. But for me the lesson is a collective one - it is up to all the players to ensure that standards don't drop.
And let's remember that our 2 goals were the result of wonderful football, and the move which almost produced a goal for Billy in the first half was as good as you will ever see. But you have to have the ball to begin with.

 

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The lessons I think are that Done doesnt work at LWB, Lafferty is much more of an influence than (some fans) thought, and EEL and O'Connell need an experienced defender in there with them to flourish (whether than is Wright or Lafferty).

We do probably lack a tough tackler in midfield we we really need to dig in - but for me the problems were at the back.