Plymouth 2 United 1 - report/ratings

[Deadbat]

United's nightmare week ended with another defeat – their third in three consecutive games – as bottom side Plymouth stunned the Blades with two late goals. Chris Wilder's men now are almost certainly resigned to the playoffs as both challengers Burnley and Leeds won their respective games this weekend. After the surprise losses to Oxford and Millwall, United made 5 changes but despite leading through Jesurun Rak Sakyi's excellent strike – they failed to build on this and goals from Ryan Hardie and Muhammed Tijani in the last 10 minutes saw the Pilgrims survival hopes kept alive.



In came Clarke, Souza, Rak Sakyi, O’Hare and Cannon in an attempt to find a winning formula but the game began in scrappy fashion with poor touches and cautious football seeing few opportunities. United were looking to get Rak Sakyi on the ball but twice he was blocked off. Plymouth looked to use the long throw to unsettle the United defence and a fussy referee made the game very stop start.



There was a half chance when the ball nearly dropped after a long throw as United failed to deal with the header but as Hardie could not quite get on it, the flag went up. Hamer played a diagonal ball that saw Rak Sakyi but he was dispossessed. Both the winger and Clarke needed treatment. United were having a lot of possession but not really threatening and the home side started to to have more territory.



Hardie had the first effort with a low angled effort Cooper saved but on the stroke of half time, United took the lead. Hamer played the ball across and RAK SAKYI received it, came inside and hit a curling effort into the top corner. The winger had been United’s main thread and whilst frustrating at times, this moment showed his quality and justified his recall.



After the break, skipper Edwards was on for Argyle and snapped into an early challenge. United tried to find a killer second goal and it was Rak Sakyi who was the danger again but he snatched an effort when well placed again and Hazard made the save.



United had not been hugely troubled but were equally not in total control and some sloppy give aways continued from both sides. A number of changes ensued as Brereton Diaz, Moore and Seriki for Rak Sakyi, Clarke and Cannon. Tijani was on for Wright for the home side. Plymouth started to pile men forward and there were gaps the other way but Seriki and Cannon both took too long before Peck’s through ball was intercepted.



Plymouth were getting some joy down the sides with Mumba an outlet with his pace. Cooper went down as United tried to ensure they slowed things down but seemed caught between holding on and going for a second. From a corner that was not cleared, the ball fell for Hardie and he hit an effort into the ground that hit the bar, with Cooper beaten.



After this let off, United should have heeded the warning but another set play led to the leveller. Robinson failed to deal with the bouncing ball twice and Argyle were in but Souza came across but in making the last ditch challenge, he seemed to injure himself although it was difficult to see if it was cramp or a more concerning injury. Choudhury came on but as the corner came in, United failed to deal with the first ball and Edwards helped on to HARDIE to fire home despite Cooper getting a hand on the ball.



The goal was a big one for the home side but the reality was, that a point was no good for either side. Both teams were leaving gaps. Plymouth had an opportunity as United’s defence was now being stretched but the ball was blocked. At the other end Hamer played Campbell in but he shot tamely into the side netting with the keeper to beat and men over.



The game ticked into the final few minutes, but as O’Hare lost the ball, Mumba broke again leading to another ball going into the box. Robinson failed to properly deal with it and as the ball looped up, TIJANI volleyed it home giving Cooper no chance. The turnaround was complete and the home fans celebrated wildly. There was to be 7 minutes stoppage time but United could not create any significant chances and the players seemed to lack belief after such a heart-breaking turnaround.



The final whistle went to the disbelief of United’s players and fans alike but after Wilder tried to rally his troops, there were scuffles near, and down the tunnel, after a few Plymouth players celebrated near the United fans.

 

[Deadbat]

United – What a dreadful week. From being top at lunchtime last week and having a 1/2 point gap, we have somehow gone 5 points behind and down to 3rd. Automatic promotion has gone and it’s unlikely even to go to those final few games now. Not even the most pessimistic Blade would have predicted such a meltdown from us. Sadly the manager and the players have completely bottled it.



Credit to our last three opponents. They have showed more desire and hunger and took big moments in our box. We look a side that looks devoid of confidence and ideas.



Today was another largely turgid and flat performance. Wilder said once again that we were OK, same as the Millwall game. I will agree to disagree. Burnley went here and won 5-0. Other teams have routinely had effort after effort against them and invariably won. Today we huffed and puffed but it was once again, too slow and pedestrian. We created very little and looked mostly clueless going forward. Our main thread Rak Sakyi was taken off bizarrely and the changes both from the start (aside from him) and off the bench did not work.



Plymouth were a poor side and some quick passing and penetrative and we score more goals and win comfortably. However, despite a poor performance we got a decent goal and should have gone on and got a second but only JRS had one other shot. Indeed for most if the game, their keeper had very little to do. You sensed we were just hoping to nick a tight game but the same defensive vulnerability we have seem in recent games happened again. We have no leaders and the aerial fragility means we routinely lose the first ball on set plays and then don’t react on the knock down. Both goals resulted from this. Robinson has made a number of mistakes in the last 10 mins but others also did not do their job – O’Hare outmuscled, BBD just kicking it out, Seriki ran past etc



The players individually are not performing and for three straight games I am struggling to think of who played well at all. Collectively though, we have showed no real plan or cohesion, offensively or defensively. We seem to have no real structure to our set up. As with the week, we go chasing the ball and do not keep to positions at all.



Too many players form has dropped off a cliff and nobody is grabbing the initiative. Even if we had won 1-0, I would not have cone away thinking we were back on track. It was lethargic and boring to watch and in the end we kind of got what we deserved as they threw some balls in the box. It was basic defending really and we once again could not deal with it.



The end of the game was odd as Wilder did his huddle which I always think should be done in private. Maybe he thinks that shows the fans he is responding but it looks a bit childish to tell then off in public (yes, I know they were crap!). Maybe it was more of a motivational talk but seemed 90 mins too late! Then after this he goes and gets involved with two Plymouth players unnecessarily. This was a total conflict of leadership and I thought made him just look mardy. Just get in the dressing room and lick your wounds.



So, where do we go from here? The only silver lining is we have 4 more games to reset before the playoffs. So maybe can try and turn it around. We can rest a few players potentially now too (Hamer, Burrows, Souza etc). We are the third best team over the season, but are not playing like it at the moment. We need to find some form or confidence or I fear some of those sides battling for 6th may have more energy/belief when we face them. There will be a lot of questions over Wilder. Tactically his limitations are being exposed and his scattergun team selection where he does not know his best players/team means there is not really a solid and consistent approach to how we are playing. He has done a great job to get us third but let us be honest, the performance over the season have been average most of the way and statistically we are not great – but you live with it due to the excellent results. Now the results have caught up with the below par performances and we are losing the tight games.



Part of me thinks just throw off the shackles and play with a more care free attacking way (two wingers or wing backs- take JLT put- maybe even play two up top?) but the counter argument is we did do well playing with O’Hare in the 10 and JRS wide, so do we go back to that but the concern is that teams know we are susceptible to balls in the box. That combined with the fact we do not create much, means more tight games. It is ironic, that the first time we knocked it longer today, we then scored off the knock down and pass wide. We do have to get it forward quicker. Our current approach seems to be find Hamer and hope he creates. The build up is painfully slow and quite easy to defend. Campbell’s drop off, Cannon and Moore offering nothing means we don’t have an outlet/threat/option up top.



Next Friday is a big game. Not in terms of autos which have gone but the players and manager giving the team some belief again. A loss Friday and it is then hard to know what Wilder says? It will appear even he has lost the ability to get wins/performances out of the side at the most crucial time.



Player ratings:



Cooper 5/10 – His kicking was poor. Didn’t make any real saves and then two went in. First he got a hand to and maybe could do a bit better although that could be harsh. Second he had no chance



Clarke 4/10 – Got booked, made poor choices and looked to be all over the place positionally. He is a bit all or nothing and gambles too much.



Burrows 4/10 – Another poor performance. He has really dropped off the last few games and currently is offering nothing attacking wise. Getting pulled about defensively too. Looks to be low on confidence.



Ahmedhozic 5/10 – Tried to at least drive out with the ball. His pass was part of the build up to the goal too. 2nd half we got deeper and deeper. Started to lose headers with the rest and we did not deal with set plays.



Robinson 3/10 – First half he was ok and at least won headers and kept the ball but did not react to the Hardie chance. Then 2nd half he started to dither with it, and then missed the ball twice in the build up to the corner and leading to Souza getting injured. After this he did not react on the corner and they score. The winner, he completely miskicks it and they score again. A nightmare 10 minutes. He was poor in the week and contributed to their winner and is not winning challenges but making errors. Needs taking out. People might say it disrupts things but the defence is conceding to terrible sides. Holding has just been sat getting splinters so deserves a chance surely?



Souza 5/10 – Still does not look fit to me at all. He won a few loose bits and knocked it forward but some stupid fouls too. I thought as the game went on, we lost our midfield shape.



Peck 5/10 – Last week he has definitely tried but made some poor decisions with the ball and lacked that snap/tenacity we have seen much of the season. Thought we were way too slow to move the ball on all game and went side and back too much.



Hamer 6/10 – Frustrating once again as he telegraphed so many passes or made the wrong choice. Played more centrally but not sure it made much difference. He at least dud pass forward and his supply line to JRS was our main architect of attacks. I thought 2nd half he would up it and provide a bog moment but game sort of passed him by. The last week will not have many Prem scouts rushing to their managers.



O’Hare 3/10 – Thought he was dreadful. I wanted him back in but thought Wilder would have him pressing and harrying in the role he played so well but was marginalised out wide. He rarely saw the ball and when he did, he lost it meekly. Did not create or threaten. Near the end, he lost three challenges with the full back who became one of their main attacking threats. One led to the break and the winner.



Rak Sakyi 6.5/10 – Scored the goal and our only threat all game. Yes, he missed a few chances or dithered but his running at the defence was the only time we looked likely. Scored a great goal. Missed a chance but should have stayed on. Wilder almost seems computerised in how/when he makes subs.



Cannon 4/10 – Don’t think he was our worst player and had a few chase downs or won corners/throws by pressurising but sadly he was largely anonymous. He rarely touches the ball at all and does not even offer nuisance value let alone a goal threat. He looks a woeful signing that has no qualities I can see at all. Wilder stubbornly played him as he clearly wants to prove he can make a difference. I’d park him till the summer and see whether he can be any kind of contributor next August beyond.



Subs:



Seriki 4/10 – Did get forward a bit but made wrong choices but at least an outlet. Two poor crosses. Defensively bit all over as the lad Mumba came down this side to cause problems.



Moore 3/10 – Hard to give him much more (no pun). Won one free kick but didn’t make runs or win headers. Been a poor signing but maybe we run with him up top with Campbell- so we may have more of a threat?



Brereton Diaz 2/10 – He was taken out but after he came on, we lost any threat. Slow to react and gave the ball away or kicked it out. His re-signing has not worked put really despite a few goals.



Choudhury – Came on just before they scored. Did not even his shirt with him delaying the change which summed up our day. After the goal it became scrappy and he did not settle us down.



Campbell – Had a great season but been poor last few and taken out today. Came on and had a great chance but went bear side and missed badly. This was at 1-1. He kicked another out in a hapless spell albeit a brief one



Wilder 2/10 – Changed the team and to be fair JRS scored but the other changes did not give us more energy. He then takes JRS off. Our best player. Our performance lacked energy, belief and a plan. It was a scrappy showing against an awful side (the worst) and our inability to create coupled with the defensive fragility (keeps picking sane two) meant we lose again. His behaviour at the end was at best poor and at worst totally unprofessional. He is supposed to be setting an example not leading a fight and another huge club fine.



Plymouth – They were better at the Lane and created more in the reverse fixture but despite trailing today, stayed in the game. They relied on throws and balls into the box but will feel they restricted the 3rd team to very little. They hit the bar and then got a leveller. Credit that they went for the win. Campbell scores and they probably lose but took their chances and had way more men in the box at the end than we did the other way.

They will probably still go down and lack real quality but over two games been as good as us, which sums up how ordinary we have been.



Player of the match – Hardie was lively and Edwards changed the game in terms of his tenacity and getting them going. However, Mumba was their best player for me and caused lots of problems especially after JRS went off.



Weakling – Wright was poor and should have been booked for a series of clumsy fouls.



Referee – Another frustrating one. Oliver Langford certainly liked the sound of his own whistle. Early on he gave so many soft fouls (both ways). Then started to let things go. Started to guess decisions and got no help from two dozy linesman either. A bad game with two poor sides so fitting we had three bad officials too.



Weekend away/ground/fans – My first visit to Plymouth and Home Park. The ground itself is in the middle of a big park- 20 mins away from the station and 40 mins away from the front.



The ground had a fan park with music which let in home fans. Ground has three modern sides which are maybe a bit bigger than Donny (which it reminded me of – maybe between Donny and Stoje – 3 sides and an older one on its own).



They have done up the old stand but still got pillars on it. Away end you had to walk round the park down a path. Over the top security with wands etc and having to turn your pockets out. The facilities were somewhat basic but they gave out free buns with our logo on it! Also nice touch to recognise how far we had come and thank us.



The away support tried to get behind the team but quickly became frustrated. The goal settled people down but then it became nervy and at the end, fans were angry. The players came over to a mixed reaction but the fracas maybe dissipated any really bad feeling as attention turned to that.



As for the rest of the day/s away, really enjoyed it. Came down Friday morning with my son on the train (long trip we split up with a brief stop & breakfast in Bristol) and we had spectacular weather. Never been to Plymouth before but surprised me how nice it was. Quite vibrant and a lot of young people out enjoying themselves. We stayed right near the Hoe. Lovely grassed area with the various statues (including the Drake one- near where he allegedly was playing bowls when news of the Spanish invasion reached). There is the bit where the Beatles posed for z photo too with a nice tribute where you can sit in the same places as the fab four.



We went up Smeatons Tower – the lighthouse. This was only a fiver. It was cool to climb up the ladders and narrow staircases. Great views atop too. We then walked down the harbour and had a boat cruise round the harbour which was good fun and informative as we went past Drake’s Island saw a number of warships and submarines.



After this we soaked up the rays and had a few beers and food on the Barbican (quayside) Reminded me a bit of Whitby with all the boats on the harbour and all the pub/restaurants etc. Went to The Three Crowns which was where all the Blades were based. Lively atmosphere (few had too much to drink and a confrontation with some bouncers ensued) and a lot of United songs/good spirits. It was odd as they had DJs and lots of youngsters (local) out around here like they were clubbing. Met Sam, from the Pinch/Dem Blades, and his girlfriend and had a lovely few hours drinking and chatting. Got fish and chips for supper before going to bed.



Today, saw a number of Blades at breakfast at the hotel. We had a few drinks down by the quayside (quite a few pubs opened at 10am!) then headed to the ground. After the game, the day was summed up as we got soaked by a downpour but returned to the harbour to drown our sorrows. Now on the 5 hour train (currently at Birmingham) wondering why we do it!

 

[Not so Slim ane]

United – What a dreadful week. From being top at lunchtime last week and having a 1/2 point gap, we have somehow gone 5 points behind and down to 3rd. Automatic promotion has gone and it’s unlikely even to go to those final few games now. Not even the most pessimistic Blade would have predicted such a meltdown from us. Sadly the manager and the players have completely bottled it.



Credit to our last three opponents. They have showed more desire and hunger and took big moments in our box. We look a side that looks devoid of confidence and ideas.



Today was another largely turgid and flat performance. Wilder said once again that we were OK, same as the Millwall game. I will agree to disagree. Burnley went here and won 5-0. Other teams have routinely had effort after effort against them and invariably won. Today we huffed and puffed but it was once again, too slow and pedestrian. We created very little and looked mostly clueless going forward. Our main thread Rak Sakyi was taken off bizarrely and the changes both from the start (aside from him) and off the bench did not work.



Plymouth were a poor side and some quick passing and penetrative and we score more goals and win comfortably. However, despite a poor performance we got a decent goal and should have gone on and got a second but only JRS had one other shot. Indeed for most if the game, their keeper had very little to do. You sensed we were just hoping to nick a tight game but the same defensive vulnerability we have seem in recent games happened again. We have no leaders and the aerial fragility means we routinely lose the first ball on set plays and then don’t react on the knock down. Both goals resulted from this. Robinson has made a number of mistakes in the last 10 mins but others also did not do their job – O’Hare outmuscled, BBD just kicking it out, Seriki ran past etc



The players individually are not performing and for three straight games I am struggling to think of who played well at all. Collectively though, we have showed no real plan or cohesion, offensively or defensively. We seem to have no real structure to our set up. As with the week, we go chasing the ball and do not keep to positions at all.



Too many players form has dropped off a cliff and nobody is grabbing the initiative. Even if we had won 1-0, I would not have cone away thinking we were back on track. It was lethargic and boring to watch and in the end we kind of got what we deserved as they threw some balls in the box. It was basic defending really and we once again could not deal with it.



The end of the game was odd as Wilder did his huddle which I always think should be done in private. Maybe he thinks that shows the fans he is responding but it looks a bit childish to tell then off in public (yes, I know they were crap!). Maybe it was more of a motivational talk but seemed 90 mins too late! Then after this he goes and gets involved with two Plymouth players unnecessarily. This was a total conflict of leadership and I thought made him just look mardy. Just get in the dressing room and lick your wounds.



So, where do we go from here? The only silver lining is we have 4 more games to reset before the playoffs. So maybe can try and turn it around. We can rest a few players potentially now too (Hamer, Burrows, Souza etc). We are the third best team over the season, but are not playing like it at the moment. We need to find some form or confidence or I fear some of those sides battling for 6th may have more energy/belief when we face them. There will be a lot of questions over Wilder. Tactically his limitations are being exposed and his scattergun team selection where he does not know his best players/team means there is not really a solid and consistent approach to how we are playing. He has done a great job to get us third but let us be honest, the performance over the season have been average most of the way and statistically we are not great – but you live with it due to the excellent results. Now the results have caught up with the below par performances and we are losing the tight games.



Part of me thinks just throw off the shackles and play with a more care free attacking way (two wingers or wing backs- take JLT put- maybe even play two up top?) but the counter argument is we did do well playing with O’Hare in the 10 and JRS wide, so do we go back to that but the concern is that teams know we are susceptible to balls in the box. That combined with the fact we do not create much, means more tight games. It is ironic, that the first time we knocked it longer today, we then scored off the knock down and pass wide. We do have to get it forward quicker. Our current approach seems to be find Hamer and hope he creates. The build up is painfully slow and quite easy to defend. Campbell’s drop off, Cannon and Moore offering nothing means we don’t have an outlet/threat/option up top.



Next Friday is a big game. Not in terms of autos which have gone but the players and manager giving the team some belief again. A loss Friday and it is then hard to know what Wilder says? It will appear even he has lost the ability to get wins/performances out of the side at the most crucial time.



Player ratings:



Cooper 5/10 – His kicking was poor. Didn’t make any real saves and then two went in. First he got a hand to and maybe could do a bit better although that could be harsh. Second he had no chance



Clarke 4/10 – Got booked, made poor choices and looked to be all over the place positionally. He is a bit all or nothing and gambles too much.



Burrows 4/10 – Another poor performance. He has really dropped off the last few games and currently is offering nothing attacking wise. Getting pulled about defensively too. Looks to be low on confidence.



Ahmedhozic 5/10 – Tried to at least drive out with the ball. His pass was part of the build up to the goal too. 2nd half we got deeper and deeper. Started to lose headers with the rest and we did not deal with set plays.



Robinson 3/10 – First half he was ok and at least won headers and kept the ball but did not react to the Hardie chance. Then 2nd half he started to dither with it, and then missed the ball twice in the build up to the corner and leading to Souza getting injured. After this he did not react on the corner and they score. The winner, he completely miskicks it and they score again. A nightmare 10 minutes. He was poor in the week and contributed to their winner and is not winning challenges but making errors. Needs taking out. People might say it disrupts things but the defence is conceding to terrible sides. Holding has just been sat getting splinters so deserves a chance surely?



Souza 5/10 – Still does not look fit to me at all. He won a few loose bits and knocked it forward but some stupid fouls too. I thought as the game went on, we lost our midfield shape.



Peck 5/10 – Last week he has definitely tried but made some poor decisions with the ball and lacked that snap/tenacity we have seen much of the season. Thought we were way too slow to move the ball on all game and went side and back too much.



Hamer 6/10 – Frustrating once again as he telegraphed so many passes or made the wrong choice. Played more centrally but not sure it made much difference. He at least dud pass forward and his supply line to JRS was our main architect of attacks. I thought 2nd half he would up it and provide a bog moment but game sort of passed him by. The last week will not have many Prem scouts rushing to their managers.



O’Hare 3/10 – Thought he was dreadful. I wanted him back in but thought Wilder would have him pressing and harrying in the role he played so well but was marginalised out wide. He rarely saw the ball and when he did, he lost it meekly. Did not create or threaten. Near the end, he lost three challenges with the full back who became one of their main attacking threats. One led to the break and the winner.



Rak Sakyi 6.5/10 – Scored the goal and our only threat all game. Yes, he missed a few chances or dithered but his running at the defence was the only time we looked likely. Scored a great goal. Missed a chance but should have stayed on. Wilder almost seems computerised in how/when he makes subs.



Cannon 4/10 – Don’t think he was our worst player and had a few chase downs or won corners/throws by pressurising but sadly he was largely anonymous. He rarely touches the ball at all and does not even offer nuisance value let alone a goal threat. He looks a woeful signing that has no qualities I can see at all. Wilder stubbornly played him as he clearly wants to prove he can make a difference. I’d park him till the summer and see whether he can be any kind of contributor next August beyond.



Subs:



Seriki 4/10 – Did get forward a bit but made wrong choices but at least an outlet. Two poor crosses. Defensively bit all over as the lad Mumba came down this side to cause problems.



Moore 3/10 – Hard to give him much more (no pun). Won one free kick but didn’t make runs or win headers. Been a poor signing but maybe we run with him up top with Campbell- so we may have more of a threat?



Brereton Diaz 2/10 – He was taken out but after he came on, we lost any threat. Slow to react and gave the ball away or kicked it out. His re-signing has not worked put really despite a few goals.



Choudhury – Came on just before they scored. Did not even his shirt with him delaying the change which summed up our day. After the goal it became scrappy and he did not settle us down.



Campbell – Had a great season but been poor last few and taken out today. Came on and had a great chance but went bear side and missed badly. This was at 1-1. He kicked another out in a hapless spell albeit a brief one



Wilder 2/10 – Changed the team and to be fair JRS scored but the other changes did not give us more energy. He then takes JRS off. Our best player. Our performance lacked energy, belief and a plan. It was a scrappy showing against an awful side (the worst) and our inability to create coupled with the defensive fragility (keeps picking sane two) meant we lose again. His behaviour at the end was at best poor and at worst totally unprofessional. He is supposed to be setting an example not leading a fight and another huge club fine.



Plymouth – They were better at the Lane and created more in the reverse fixture but despite trailing today, stayed in the game. They relied on throws and balls into the box but will feel they restricted the 3rd team to very little. They hit the bar and then got a leveller. Credit that they went for the win. Campbell scores and they probably lose but took their chances and had way more men in the box at the end than we did the other way.

They will probably still go down and lack real quality but over two games been as good as us, which sums up how ordinary we have been.



Player of the match – Hardie was lively and Edwards changed the game in terms of his tenacity and getting them going. However, Mumba was their best player for me and caused lots of problems especially after JRS went off.



Weakling – Wright was poor and should have been booked for a series of clumsy fouls.



Referee – Another frustrating one. Oliver Langford certainly liked the sound of his own whistle. Early on he gave so many soft fouls (both ways). Then started to let things go. Started to guess decisions and got no help from two dozy linesman either. A bad game with two poor sides so fitting we had three bad officials too.



Weekend away/ground/fans – My first visit to Plymouth and Home Park. The ground itself is in the middle of a big park- 20 mins away from the station and 40 mins away from the front.



The ground had a fan park with music which let in home fans. Ground has three modern sides which are maybe a bit bigger than Donny (which it reminded me of – maybe between Donny and Stoje – 3 sides and an older one on its own).



They have done up the old stand but still got pillars on it. Away end you had to walk round the park down a path. Over the top security with wands etc and having to turn your pockets out. The facilities were somewhat basic but they gave out free buns with our logo on it! Also nice touch to recognise how far we had come and thank us.



The away support tried to get behind the team but quickly became frustrated. The goal settled people down but then it became nervy and at the end, fans were angry. The players came over to a mixed reaction but the fracas maybe dissipated any really bad feeling as attention turned to that.



As for the rest of the day/s away, really enjoyed it. Came down Friday morning with my son on the train (long trip we split up with a brief stop & breakfast in Bristol) and we had spectacular weather. Never been to Plymouth before but surprised me how nice it was. Quite vibrant and a lot of young people out enjoying themselves. We stayed right near the Hoe. Lovely grassed area with the various statues (including the Drake one- near where he allegedly was playing bowls when news of the Spanish invasion reached). There is the bit where the Beatles posed for z photo too with a nice tribute where you can sit in the same places as the fab four.



We went up Smeatons Tower – the lighthouse. This was only a fiver. It was cool to climb up the ladders and narrow staircases. Great views atop too. We then walked down the harbour and had a boat cruise round the harbour which was good fun and informative as we went past Drake’s Island saw a number of warships and submarines.



After this we soaked up the rays and had a few beers and food on the Barbican (quayside) Reminded me a bit of Whitby with all the boats on the harbour and all the pub/restaurants etc. Went to The Three Crowns which was where all the Blades were based. Lively atmosphere (few had too much to drink and a confrontation with some bouncers ensued) and a lot of United songs/good spirits. It was odd as they had DJs and lots of youngsters (local) out around here like they were clubbing. Met Sam, from the Pinch/Dem Blades, and his girlfriend and had a lovely few hours drinking and chatting. Got fish and chips for supper before going to bed.



Today, saw a number of Blades at breakfast at the hotel. We had a few drinks down by the quayside (quite a few pubs opened at 10am!) then headed to the ground. After the game, the day was summed up as we got soaked by a downpour but returned to the harbour to drown our sorrows. Now on the 5 hour train (currently at Birmingham) wondering why we do it!

Cannon 4 out of 10 is ridiculously generous... He was a zero ... Pick any bloke out of the away end and they couldn't have done much worse

 

[bladesince64]

Cannot believe what has happened to Hamer, Campbell, BBD and O'Hare in the last few games. Their performances have just dropped off a cliff.

Being our stand out creative and goal scoring players this has killed our season.

Nerves, pressure, inexperience?

Add this to the JLT goal-a-game free gift.

 

[bakeblade]

Cannon 4 out of 10 is ridiculously generous... He was a zero ... Pick any bloke out of the away end and they couldn't have done much worse

You're correct, DB is miles off with a 4

 

[Sithblade]

The Plymouth sub, Tijani did more in his 30 mins on the pitch than Cannon has done in his whole time with us. They got him on loan from Slavia Prague last summer but did his hamstring early in the season. Looks a handful, tall, strong and some pace. Qualities Cannon unfortunately lacks.

 

[LS5 Blade]

The Plymouth sub, Tijani did more in his 30 mins on the pitch than Cannon has done in his whole time with us. They got him on loan from Slavia Prague last summer but did his hamstring early in the season. Looks a handful, tall, strong and some pace. Qualities Cannon unfortunately lacks.

As he has now played in the championship he might get on Wilders radar. He might as well be playing on the moon otherwise!

 

[Deadbat]

Cannon 4 out of 10 is ridiculously generous... He was a zero ... Pick any bloke out of the away end and they couldn't have done much worse

I think he is poor and not seen anything at all but he had no service whatsoever and is completely isolated. The one up top is not working at all.

 

[Jon B]

To be fair to Souza he did an excellent chase back and block when the lad turned Robbo inside out and upside down. Saved what looked like a certain equalising goal. Worth an extra mark?

Unfortunately, it led to him having to exit the game.

And those left on the field .....

 

[Not so Slim ane]

I think he is poor and not seen anything at all but he had no service whatsoever and is completely isolated. The one up top is not working at all.

He offered nothing tho, yet O'hare who actually tried gets a 3...

 

[Geordie Blade]

I thought O’Hare was our best player. Some inventive flicks, plenty of energy and tried lots even if it didn’t always come off.

I’m beyond comprehension on Robinson now. I wish the ref had red-carded him for the neck hold in the first half. I’m not criticising his ability (it is what it is), but his obsession with grappling is so out of tune with what a modern defender should be. I wouldn’t mind if he was a no-nonsense-put-it-in-row-Z type, but he insists on trying things that he just isn’t capable of, and he doesn’t react quickly to events in the box.

 

[Pollingtonblade]

Can this be sent to the club?

 

[John Street West Terrace]

Twice in a week we’ve allowed ourselves to get dragged into in scrap with this game & the Oxford through piss poor game management. I don’t know whether it comes from the manager or it’s a psychological thing with the players but as soon as we get the lead we drop 10 yards back & go into slow possession mode & never go for the jugular to kill the game.
I thought we were very poor yesterday & that was well before we conceded the 2 late goals , apart from the goal I can only recall one other tame effort on target against a side that had conceded 81 goals .To say we went into the game realistically needing to win our last 5 to get automatic promotion I thought we looked ponderous & slow and we didn’t press them whatsoever in the second half .
FFS we need get Holding in there or go to 3 centre backs as we looked all over the place from crosses into the box again , as there’s no organiser back there
If we’re honest we’ve scraped a lot of results this season & it’s now catching up with us ,all Wilder can do now is try and work out our best 11 for the play offs .
The real annoying thing is it’s was in our hands this week against 2 poor teams & a hard working organised one , if your realistic candidates for promotion to the PL that should have been a nailed on 9 points ..we’ve gifted Burnley & Leeds promotion

 

[CoatesyBlade]

Just about sums it all up perfectly.
It’s hard to believe/accept just how badly this week has gone. Wilder stated that we were getting an upgraded version of himself, but I’m getting massive 2nd PL season vibes at the minute.
That being said… it’s not over until it’s over. Things can change very quickly as we’re testament to! We have to win all our remaining games and hopefully either Watford, QPR or Millwall will do us a favour. Stranger things have happened however unlikely it seems right now.
As you stated… Cardiff is a massive game. Can the manager, staff, players and fans come together and unite for one last push?
As for the train ride… me and my boys are doing it the other way around on Thursday for the game on Good Friday

 

[Addison]

Hard to find any positives at the moment DB other than the rest of the play off contenders are not pulling up any trees. Teams who lose 3 on the spin at the business end of the season rarely go up. Yet I genuinely believe we have the players to get us over the line. The problem for me is the manager. The pressure has got to him and he's displaying the same characteristics he did last season when the going gets tough. A PR disaster off the field and blind optimism on it. Yesterday post match he has a dig at a player for letting the oppo go past him earlier in the build up to the second goal. No criticism once again of his captain who tees up the winner. By my calculations thats around 9 points lost caused by the individual mistakes of JLT yet he's untouchable.

As with our first season in the EPL the system has been found out and the obsession in keeping to a slow build up possession based 4-2-3-1 formation will cost us imo unless there are changes in personnel starting at LCB. Not going to happen though.

The points total accrued is irrelevant now, its all about handling pressure as every one of the last 4 plus play offs is a big game. Unfortunately our track record this season in these games, steel city derbys apart, has been woeful. We lack leaders and CW's assertion that this is not a team of bottlers unlike last season is being tested.

Can we break our play off curse. Well the manager has done it before with Oxford. Thats my blind optimism for the day. Unless we try alternative formations in the last 4 games, 3 at the back, 2 forwards and rest key players I see us falling at the first hurdle in the semi finals. That may be a blessing for us all. CW's reluctance to change will be a factor and the continued shoe horning of his favourites Brewster, Cannon and JLT into the starting eleven will ultimately be our downfall.

Last week I hoped CW could turn it around but that would require a sea change in attitude and there is no sign of that happening at the moment. I'll be there on Friday but the last 3 games are reminiscent of the all too familiar SUFC capitulation at the final hurdle scenario.

 

[Blade56]

even the most pessimistic Blade would have predicted such a meltdown from us.

Oy, I did

 

[originaltrueblade]

Agree and like most of what was written apart from Robinson (should be called Ribinson with his desire to expose rib cages of everyone he plays against) alongside Cannon and Wilder …all would receive 1 and that’s being generous

 

[Blade59]

I would swap the Cannon and O'Hare marks around. I get the argument about lack of service, a young player who will develop etc but i have not seen any qualities in him whatsoever. He makes a few runs into the channels but they are kind of half hearted and not screaming for the ball to be played. He doesn't have pace, not good in the air, cannot hold the ball up, doesn't link play and offers no goal threat. We may as well start with 10 men. Hope time will prove me wrong and he just needs a break to give him some confidence but at the moment the £10m we paid is making the £24m for Brewster look good value.

 

[Zipwire]

United – What a dreadful week. From being top at lunchtime last week and having a 1/2 point gap, we have somehow gone 5 points behind and down to 3rd. Automatic promotion has gone and it’s unlikely even to go to those final few games now. Not even the most pessimistic Blade would have predicted such a meltdown from us. Sadly the manager and the players have completely bottled it.



Credit to our last three opponents. They have showed more desire and hunger and took big moments in our box. We look a side that looks devoid of confidence and ideas.



Today was another largely turgid and flat performance. Wilder said once again that we were OK, same as the Millwall game. I will agree to disagree. Burnley went here and won 5-0. Other teams have routinely had effort after effort against them and invariably won. Today we huffed and puffed but it was once again, too slow and pedestrian. We created very little and looked mostly clueless going forward. Our main thread Rak Sakyi was taken off bizarrely and the changes both from the start (aside from him) and off the bench did not work.



Plymouth were a poor side and some quick passing and penetrative and we score more goals and win comfortably. However, despite a poor performance we got a decent goal and should have gone on and got a second but only JRS had one other shot. Indeed for most if the game, their keeper had very little to do. You sensed we were just hoping to nick a tight game but the same defensive vulnerability we have seem in recent games happened again. We have no leaders and the aerial fragility means we routinely lose the first ball on set plays and then don’t react on the knock down. Both goals resulted from this. Robinson has made a number of mistakes in the last 10 mins but others also did not do their job – O’Hare outmuscled, BBD just kicking it out, Seriki ran past etc



The players individually are not performing and for three straight games I am struggling to think of who played well at all. Collectively though, we have showed no real plan or cohesion, offensively or defensively. We seem to have no real structure to our set up. As with the week, we go chasing the ball and do not keep to positions at all.



Too many players form has dropped off a cliff and nobody is grabbing the initiative. Even if we had won 1-0, I would not have cone away thinking we were back on track. It was lethargic and boring to watch and in the end we kind of got what we deserved as they threw some balls in the box. It was basic defending really and we once again could not deal with it.



The end of the game was odd as Wilder did his huddle which I always think should be done in private. Maybe he thinks that shows the fans he is responding but it looks a bit childish to tell then off in public (yes, I know they were crap!). Maybe it was more of a motivational talk but seemed 90 mins too late! Then after this he goes and gets involved with two Plymouth players unnecessarily. This was a total conflict of leadership and I thought made him just look mardy. Just get in the dressing room and lick your wounds.



So, where do we go from here? The only silver lining is we have 4 more games to reset before the playoffs. So maybe can try and turn it around. We can rest a few players potentially now too (Hamer, Burrows, Souza etc). We are the third best team over the season, but are not playing like it at the moment. We need to find some form or confidence or I fear some of those sides battling for 6th may have more energy/belief when we face them. There will be a lot of questions over Wilder. Tactically his limitations are being exposed and his scattergun team selection where he does not know his best players/team means there is not really a solid and consistent approach to how we are playing. He has done a great job to get us third but let us be honest, the performance over the season have been average most of the way and statistically we are not great – but you live with it due to the excellent results. Now the results have caught up with the below par performances and we are losing the tight games.



Part of me thinks just throw off the shackles and play with a more care free attacking way (two wingers or wing backs- take JLT put- maybe even play two up top?) but the counter argument is we did do well playing with O’Hare in the 10 and JRS wide, so do we go back to that but the concern is that teams know we are susceptible to balls in the box. That combined with the fact we do not create much, means more tight games. It is ironic, that the first time we knocked it longer today, we then scored off the knock down and pass wide. We do have to get it forward quicker. Our current approach seems to be find Hamer and hope he creates. The build up is painfully slow and quite easy to defend. Campbell’s drop off, Cannon and Moore offering nothing means we don’t have an outlet/threat/option up top.



Next Friday is a big game. Not in terms of autos which have gone but the players and manager giving the team some belief again. A loss Friday and it is then hard to know what Wilder says? It will appear even he has lost the ability to get wins/performances out of the side at the most crucial time.



Player ratings:



Cooper 5/10 – His kicking was poor. Didn’t make any real saves and then two went in. First he got a hand to and maybe could do a bit better although that could be harsh. Second he had no chance



Clarke 4/10 – Got booked, made poor choices and looked to be all over the place positionally. He is a bit all or nothing and gambles too much.



Burrows 4/10 – Another poor performance. He has really dropped off the last few games and currently is offering nothing attacking wise. Getting pulled about defensively too. Looks to be low on confidence.



Ahmedhozic 5/10 – Tried to at least drive out with the ball. His pass was part of the build up to the goal too. 2nd half we got deeper and deeper. Started to lose headers with the rest and we did not deal with set plays.



Robinson 3/10 – First half he was ok and at least won headers and kept the ball but did not react to the Hardie chance. Then 2nd half he started to dither with it, and then missed the ball twice in the build up to the corner and leading to Souza getting injured. After this he did not react on the corner and they score. The winner, he completely miskicks it and they score again. A nightmare 10 minutes. He was poor in the week and contributed to their winner and is not winning challenges but making errors. Needs taking out. People might say it disrupts things but the defence is conceding to terrible sides. Holding has just been sat getting splinters so deserves a chance surely?



Souza 5/10 – Still does not look fit to me at all. He won a few loose bits and knocked it forward but some stupid fouls too. I thought as the game went on, we lost our midfield shape.



Peck 5/10 – Last week he has definitely tried but made some poor decisions with the ball and lacked that snap/tenacity we have seen much of the season. Thought we were way too slow to move the ball on all game and went side and back too much.



Hamer 6/10 – Frustrating once again as he telegraphed so many passes or made the wrong choice. Played more centrally but not sure it made much difference. He at least dud pass forward and his supply line to JRS was our main architect of attacks. I thought 2nd half he would up it and provide a bog moment but game sort of passed him by. The last week will not have many Prem scouts rushing to their managers.



O’Hare 3/10 – Thought he was dreadful. I wanted him back in but thought Wilder would have him pressing and harrying in the role he played so well but was marginalised out wide. He rarely saw the ball and when he did, he lost it meekly. Did not create or threaten. Near the end, he lost three challenges with the full back who became one of their main attacking threats. One led to the break and the winner.



Rak Sakyi 6.5/10 – Scored the goal and our only threat all game. Yes, he missed a few chances or dithered but his running at the defence was the only time we looked likely. Scored a great goal. Missed a chance but should have stayed on. Wilder almost seems computerised in how/when he makes subs.



Cannon 4/10 – Don’t think he was our worst player and had a few chase downs or won corners/throws by pressurising but sadly he was largely anonymous. He rarely touches the ball at all and does not even offer nuisance value let alone a goal threat. He looks a woeful signing that has no qualities I can see at all. Wilder stubbornly played him as he clearly wants to prove he can make a difference. I’d park him till the summer and see whether he can be any kind of contributor next August beyond.



Subs:



Seriki 4/10 – Did get forward a bit but made wrong choices but at least an outlet. Two poor crosses. Defensively bit all over as the lad Mumba came down this side to cause problems.



Moore 3/10 – Hard to give him much more (no pun). Won one free kick but didn’t make runs or win headers. Been a poor signing but maybe we run with him up top with Campbell- so we may have more of a threat?



Brereton Diaz 2/10 – He was taken out but after he came on, we lost any threat. Slow to react and gave the ball away or kicked it out. His re-signing has not worked put really despite a few goals.



Choudhury – Came on just before they scored. Did not even his shirt with him delaying the change which summed up our day. After the goal it became scrappy and he did not settle us down.



Campbell – Had a great season but been poor last few and taken out today. Came on and had a great chance but went bear side and missed badly. This was at 1-1. He kicked another out in a hapless spell albeit a brief one



Wilder 2/10 – Changed the team and to be fair JRS scored but the other changes did not give us more energy. He then takes JRS off. Our best player. Our performance lacked energy, belief and a plan. It was a scrappy showing against an awful side (the worst) and our inability to create coupled with the defensive fragility (keeps picking sane two) meant we lose again. His behaviour at the end was at best poor and at worst totally unprofessional. He is supposed to be setting an example not leading a fight and another huge club fine.



Plymouth – They were better at the Lane and created more in the reverse fixture but despite trailing today, stayed in the game. They relied on throws and balls into the box but will feel they restricted the 3rd team to very little. They hit the bar and then got a leveller. Credit that they went for the win. Campbell scores and they probably lose but took their chances and had way more men in the box at the end than we did the other way.

They will probably still go down and lack real quality but over two games been as good as us, which sums up how ordinary we have been.



Player of the match – Hardie was lively and Edwards changed the game in terms of his tenacity and getting them going. However, Mumba was their best player for me and caused lots of problems especially after JRS went off.



Weakling – Wright was poor and should have been booked for a series of clumsy fouls.



Referee – Another frustrating one. Oliver Langford certainly liked the sound of his own whistle. Early on he gave so many soft fouls (both ways). Then started to let things go. Started to guess decisions and got no help from two dozy linesman either. A bad game with two poor sides so fitting we had three bad officials too.



Weekend away/ground/fans – My first visit to Plymouth and Home Park. The ground itself is in the middle of a big park- 20 mins away from the station and 40 mins away from the front.



The ground had a fan park with music which let in home fans. Ground has three modern sides which are maybe a bit bigger than Donny (which it reminded me of – maybe between Donny and Stoje – 3 sides and an older one on its own).



They have done up the old stand but still got pillars on it. Away end you had to walk round the park down a path. Over the top security with wands etc and having to turn your pockets out. The facilities were somewhat basic but they gave out free buns with our logo on it! Also nice touch to recognise how far we had come and thank us.



The away support tried to get behind the team but quickly became frustrated. The goal settled people down but then it became nervy and at the end, fans were angry. The players came over to a mixed reaction but the fracas maybe dissipated any really bad feeling as attention turned to that.



As for the rest of the day/s away, really enjoyed it. Came down Friday morning with my son on the train (long trip we split up with a brief stop & breakfast in Bristol) and we had spectacular weather. Never been to Plymouth before but surprised me how nice it was. Quite vibrant and a lot of young people out enjoying themselves. We stayed right near the Hoe. Lovely grassed area with the various statues (including the Drake one- near where he allegedly was playing bowls when news of the Spanish invasion reached). There is the bit where the Beatles posed for z photo too with a nice tribute where you can sit in the same places as the fab four.



We went up Smeatons Tower – the lighthouse. This was only a fiver. It was cool to climb up the ladders and narrow staircases. Great views atop too. We then walked down the harbour and had a boat cruise round the harbour which was good fun and informative as we went past Drake’s Island saw a number of warships and submarines.



After this we soaked up the rays and had a few beers and food on the Barbican (quayside) Reminded me a bit of Whitby with all the boats on the harbour and all the pub/restaurants etc. Went to The Three Crowns which was where all the Blades were based. Lively atmosphere (few had too much to drink and a confrontation with some bouncers ensued) and a lot of United songs/good spirits. It was odd as they had DJs and lots of youngsters (local) out around here like they were clubbing. Met Sam, from the Pinch/Dem Blades, and his girlfriend and had a lovely few hours drinking and chatting. Got fish and chips for supper before going to bed.



Today, saw a number of Blades at breakfast at the hotel. We had a few drinks down by the quayside (quite a few pubs opened at 10am!) then headed to the ground. After the game, the day was summed up as we got soaked by a downpour but returned to the harbour to drown our sorrows. Now on the 5 hour train (currently at Birmingham) wondering why we do it!

Agree with everything you’ve said.

The weekend was absolutely on point with loads of Blades fans using it as an excuse to have a couple of nights away. I was based in Looe for the weekend and had a fantastic time although the drive back today was a proper slog.

 

[Sportbilly /Detroit Blade]

A depressing read, but a great read nonetheless.

 

[Champagneblade]

Cannot believe what has happened to Hamer, Campbell, BBD and O'Hare in the last few games. Their performances have just dropped off a cliff.

Being our stand out creative and goal scoring players this has killed our season.

Nerves, pressure, inexperience?

Add this to the JLT goal-a-game free gift.

Need to be playing BBD in his actual favoured position or not at all.

Play him on the left or play him centre forward. He’s the guy that got 6 in 14 in the PL for us. He didn’t do it playing wide right.

Have him or Campbell up front and forget the rest.

Have Brooks as the back up to Rak-Sakyi and Hamer.

Keep Rak-Sakyi on for full games when he’s looking like our only scorer.

Have O’Hare down the middle pressuring.

If you must try Cannon either use him with Moore as a double sub or not at all. He’s not a lone striker. He didn’t smack in 9 goals as a lone striker for Stoke.

Drop Robinson and pick the guy who has about 30 European games under his belt.

There are simple ways to make marginal gains in this team.

 

[Pintor75]

Need to be playing BBD in his actual favoured position or not at all.

Play him on the left or play him centre forward. He’s the guy that got 6 in 14 in the PL for us. He didn’t do it playing wide right.

Have him or Campbell up front and forget the rest.

Have Brooks as the back up to Rak-Sakyi and Hamer.

Keep Rak-Sakyi on for full games when he’s looking like our only scorer.

Have O’Hare down the middle pressuring.

If you must try Cannon either use him with Moore as a double sub or not at all. He’s not a lone striker. He didn’t smack in 9 goals as a lone striker for Stoke.

Drop Robinson and pick the guy who has about 30 European games under his belt.

There are simple ways to make marginal gains in this team.

Agree, whether he's playing Cannon trying to justify his fee or whatever we need Campbell & Diaz up front v Cardiff, another crap team who we should be beating comfortably, but we've thought that the last 3 games, Rak-Sakyi on the wing, Peck, Hamer & Souza in midfield

 

[Blade59]

Need to be playing BBD in his actual favoured position or not at all.

Play him on the left or play him centre forward. He’s the guy that got 6 in 14 in the PL for us. He didn’t do it playing wide right.

Have him or Campbell up front and forget the rest.

Have Brooks as the back up to Rak-Sakyi and Hamer.

Keep Rak-Sakyi on for full games when he’s looking like our only scorer.

Have O’Hare down the middle pressuring.

If you must try Cannon either use him with Moore as a double sub or not at all. He’s not a lone striker. He didn’t smack in 9 goals as a lone striker for Stoke.

Drop Robinson and pick the guy who has about 30 European games under his belt.

There are simple ways to make marginal gains in this team.

Nail on the head. Play your best players in their best positions. Not sure why Chris feels the need to over complicate things.

Also need to understand the game is about scoring goals, not possession, number of passes etc. Take one touch instead of 2, get in your crosses earlier, commit men into the box, take a shot when you have a clear site on goal. Look at Liverpool's first goal yesterday, you don't always need to have 10+ passes to create a good opportunity.

 

[Blade59]

Also if the tactics are not working use subs to change it, not more of the same with different players.