United 1 Coventry 2 - report/ratings

[Deadbat]

After defeating the side sitting at the foot of the Championship, the Blades faced the league leaders, Coventry, at Bramall Lane on Wednesday evening. United faced a very different opponent and challenge as the league leaders showed why they look set to return to the topflight; after a long absence from the Premier League stretching back 25 years to 2021. United were the better side for large spells of the contest and should have been ahead at the break. They finally do take the lead thanks to Harrison Burrows’ deflected strike but did not hold the advantage for long, as goals from Haji Wright and Jack Rudoni turned the contest on its head. Like with the game against fellow highflyers Middlesbrough two weeks ago, United showed several outstanding qualities and showed that without such a poor start they would be much higher in the table. However, the same defensive vulnerabilities and a lack of conviction in the final third, meant a ruthless Coventry side exposed these weaknesses. United’s slim playoff hopes are almost certainly over now and will probably start to think about planning for next season; after giving themselves too much to do in order to catch up.

Wilder made one change with Soumare in for the suspended Phillips. Riedewald was back in the bench after a spell out through injury. Coventry came to the Lane with a chance to go 5 points clear at the top after arresting a recent slide, to continue their excellent season. The Blades’ American owners were in the ground as the game started under the Bramall Lane lights.

United began impressively and were moving the ball around crisply. Brooks was looking a genuine threat with his strong running and Soumare began the game well with some powerful runs. The first chance came when the ball was transferred down to the left side and Hamer drove inwards, but his low cross shot was turned around the post by Rushworth with Bamford waiting to pounce. United won two early corners although after one was cleared, Tanganga and Mason Clark became locked together and had to be separated leading to a yellow card for both players. United continued to look the better side with some neat and tidy passing and movement from the forward players that was penning Coventry back. Rushworth had to save a low drive from Burrows and then Hamer nearly played in Bamford again.

However, despite the domination on 20 minutes, Coventry created a good chance as there was a swift break down the right and Wright flicked cleverly to Rudoni whose cross was intercepted. Wright then outmuscled Bindon to move into space but could not find the final finish. United had played all the football and controlled possession but these two moments showed the threats the Sky Blues possessed. The best chance of the game came for the hosts. Peck played a slide rule pass into the path of Bamford but after the striker cleverly found space and jinked inside, his low shot was tame and straight at the keeper.

At the other end, Coventry again broke down the right-hand side and the ball across seemed set to be converted by Wright but Seriki did well to turn it behind and deny a certain goal. United came again and O’Hare, who was getting the treatment from the visiting fans, flicked not far wide. There was then a series of shots with Soumare blazing over and then having a shot blocked. Brooks also had an effort that was cut out before he weaved into the box, after exchanging passes with Peck but ran out of room. There was an appeal for a penalty on Seriki as he went into the box with the defender definitely making a pull on his arm but the referee decided the full back went down too easily and waved play on. The official had given a bizarre performance thus far with several other decisions seemingly going against the home side and was loudly booed as he exited the pitch at half time.

The second half began with United continuing where they left off and they took the lead on 48 minutes. It was another incisive passing move and Hamer then found the pass into BURROWS, who rolled his foot over the ball to create space and with his weaker right foot, hit an effort that flicked a defender and went into the net. It was a fully deserved lead for the Blades.

Brooks then went on a marauding run but was denied by Rushworth low down to his right but soon after the visitors were level. The ball was played into the middle and United were caught short in this area. It eventually found WRIGHT who exchanged touches with Mason Clark, before coming inside and hitting a low shot through bodies that went in despite Cooper getting a touch. The keeper and his defenders will be disappointed at the ease of the leveller.

Suddenly City smelt blood and they completed the turnaround on 57 minutes. This time the ball was played down the left and Mason Clark was given too much time and whipped a cross in, that flicked off Soumare and RUDONI was completely unmarked and headed past Cooper into the bottom corner.

United made changes to try and get back into the game with Campbell and Riedewald on for O’Hare and Soumare and Torp and Eccles also came on for the visitors. The game had completely swung, and the Blades were struggling to find any forward momentum. Coventry were in a set defence and the Blades had to rely on long shots from Hamer who went wide and over on successive efforts. Cooper had to save a low shot from Rudoni that went through a crowd at the other end.

Campbell made a run forward and went down under a challenge from Thomas but the referee again deemed the United player went down too early – this time he booked the Blades forward despite his remonstrations. Coventry were now trying everything to slow things down and keeper Rushworth went down to receive treatment for an ‘injury’ as Lampard gave further instructions. Hoever and Chong came on as United tried to find something to get a leveller and the former was involved down the right. A few crosses came in but Coventry made blocks and clearances, as they had done all night and despite 6 minutes of stoppage time, they were able to see the game out.

United – Really frustrating night. I was kind of ok with the Boro game even though we lost, as we played well but they were just a bit better. Tonight, I thought Coventry were not as good as Boro and for all the first half and early part of second half, we dominated and had lots of good moments. We should have been 2 or 3 goals up but the only caveat is we did not have many clear chances or test the keeper much. We got into great areas and played some lovely stuff but the final bits (ball/shot) just took too long and meant we overplayed or got blocked. Coventry did defend well and threw bodies in the way and did the things we could not do 2nd half. I am not sure the Seriki one was enough for a penalty being honest. There is contact but would have been soft. That is how I see it.

It was a really good performance though and with more clinical play we go in a few goals to the good. They did have chances but were quite direct and the balls over the top/down the sides were their main threat – they also had a lot of long throws into the box. I was pleased with how we had done though and felt we had looked better than them for most of the game. This continued 2nd half and we got the goal we deserved. I wanted us to push on or take the sting out, but we did neither.

They kind of upped the tempo – the goal was awful from our point of view though. A ball over the top saw us have no-one in the middle (Peck and Soumare had done well – but went missing) - it ended up with Wright getting it wide left and then was given too much time. He exchanged passes but then Seriki should not show him inside at all. We do not get across and block the shot and Cooper should do better. So, there is culpability across the team really. Same with the second. Ball goes wide too easily, Peck does not pressure the ball (not sure why he is there as Wilder said?) and then the cross comes in and despite the flick, our centre halves are nowhere near Rudoni – who is proven at winning and scoring goals like this. Really basic stuff and showed our soft underbelly. Felt we had to work hard to get any chances/moments, despite our good play. They made and scored their goals too easily.

It kind of flattened us after this and despite changes, they sat in a low block, and we were taking too many touches – not moving it fast enough and relied on long range shots. We huffed and puffed but did not find any clear moments – which was a theme throughout the game – even when we were in top. I have watched the Campbell one back and it looks to be more of a penalty than the Seriki one – I think there is definite contact but he does kind of fall quite theatrically. I think VAR might give that if they look back at it. I certainly do not think the ref did us any favours last night and the marginal calls – especially for a home team – went against us.

We certainly did not deserve to lose and the stats on shots/possession/XG seem to all in our favour, but we were not ruthless and did not take the big moments. Coventry’s win felt like how we did at times last season. Wilder is right – the team we had last season probably sees the game out- with more experience (Souza, Anel etc). We are more entertaining but not getting the results. However, we continue to struggle (did last season) when we played the top teams (lost to Leeds/Burnley and also now Boro/Coventry).

I came out and thought that was almost certainly it for the season – if it had not been before – it is way too much to do now and we need to be almost perfect. I cannot see that – with our poor away from and us throwing in a bad performance every 3 or 4 games – means we will not go on the run we need. There is way too much traffic between us and 6th. I think we will start to at least plan to next season and think about who may be here and who we need to move on. Money will be tighter and I do expect some departures (maybe Hamer and one of Peck/Brooks) but we should have a fair amount back and hope we can lose some of the players not good enough and bring in some quality additions but will be more about wheeling and dealing with the parachute payments going.

It is annoying as Coventry did not look that great but have a way of playing and have found results and have the clinical element at both ends. We looked a nice side but one that cannot quite finish games or beat the better teams. It was still entertaining mind and despite another poor referee performance, I largely enjoyed the game despite the result.

 

[Deadbat]

Ratings:

Cooper 4/10 – I feel harsh rating him so low but that is the life of a goalkeeper I suppose. He did ok in the first half and dealt with what he had to but did not have any saves to make? Second half he has to do better with the shot. It is so weak and just goes in too easily. We have seen this all season. Then a header goes in (not sure he had much chance) but two attempts on goal and two goals. He did make a decent low save low down. I have heard some people say that if we swapped keepers that we would have won? I am not sure, but I know that Cooper is making too many mistakes and goals are going in too easily. He needs some proper competition.

Seriki 4/10 - First half played well and was well advance in terms of getting forward and linking well with Brooks. He was driving forward and looking an attacking threat. He then had the moment for the penalty – I thought he went down too easily and it was a bit soft but there was contact. You kind of have a higher threshold for penalties (whether that is right is another debate). He was more like a 6.5-7/10 though first half but then 2nd half, we saw a huge drop off. There have been questions of him in terms of his defensive work but I have not seen that this season? Last night we saw these issues though. He really struggled with the pace and his positional sense was all over the place – going too high or coming inside. Mason Clark beat him a few times. The first goal he has to show him outside. Even the second he lost the ball and then should have stopped the quick throw – as was out of position.

Burrows 7/10 – Continued his improvements and the best of the back line. Got forward well throughout and had a few decent crosses and shots even first half. Linked well and was advanced throughout. He did have a few issues with the high ball as a smaller player beat him a few times or they isolated Wright on him. At times he can be a bit weak at physical 50/50’s. Got forward though and scored a well taken goal – second in two games. Most of their attacks came down the left-hand side.

Bindon 4.5/10 – He has improved but when he plays strong and mobile strikers, he struggles generally. He gets beaten physically too easily and gets outmuscled. He was shrugged off it a few times but Wright is a good player so no shame in that. Kept fighting and trying but just does not have that physicality despite him being a decent size. I am not sure you can teach that? Maybe he fills out a bit and gets stronger? He made a few panicky passes too and started to struggle but I felt he stuck at it at least. The second goal he and Tanganga do not take responsibility –they had no one else to mark so have to react. I thought they had two better centre halves in terms of winning balls/blocking shots. We lack an authority and commanding figure at the back still and conceded soft goals as a result.

Tanganga 4/10 – A poor night where he struggled and seemed more bothered about grappling and grabbing than winning the ball or sticking to his task. He got a stupid early booking and then had other tussles at corners – he never just goes for the ball? Defensively he looked ropey and uncertain throughout. I thought both goals he can do better – to get out and block the shot – even if issues occurred before it and after (Cooper) and the second despite the deflection he needs to react better for me. He is smaller than I thought and means he can lose headers and he does not read the game great. He has been an ok signing, but I expected better and not sure he was worth the supposedly large fee/wages. He only has 2 years after this so maybe that shorter contract was with good reason? Maybe he does better next to a dominating centre half, but the issues above remain.

Peck 7.5/10 – Thought he was our best player on the night. He covered a lot of ground and used the ball well. Some great passes through (to Bamford and Brooks) and looked composed and a class act. Thought we controlled midfield first half totally. After they got back in it, it became a struggle and they packed the backline making it hard to pass through. I thought the players in front could have done better tonight and only when Campbell came on did we look a threat again with balls to be played behind. Peck has had two very good games this week though and it’s a case of him and one other.

Soumare 6.5/10 – Do you know what, I thought he did well for long stretches. Sure, he gave it away with a few bizarre passes straight to them but he also played a lot of good balls and always looked to go forward. Got across the field and moved around. He showed his athleticism and made a number of interceptions. He is a bit like Revells (the chocolates!) you never know what you are going to get but there is something there despite my criticism of him this season (others been even harsher – see Danny Hall!) but he did well today. Tired after the break a bit and the first goal there was a big chasm in midfield where both him and Peck (or one of them) should be. Wonder how much he will play now Riedewald and Rothwell are back (Phillips too in a few games) and do not see us signing him – so wonder if he will be used an impact/energy sub like we saw on Sunday.

O’Hare 5/10 - Thought he flattered to deceive again. We saw bits and pieces where he got on it but telegraphed too many passes and things did not come off at all. He kept working and trying to link but other than the flicked header, no real moments where he assisted or had an effort on goal. Seemed to just wander around without achieving much and for all the ball we had, we created little clear-cut things. I do like him as a player but he can be a bit hot and cold in terms of productivity.

Hamer 5/10 – The assist for the goal notwithstanding, the rest of his performance was extremely disappointing. He saw a lot of the ball but wasted a lot too with aimless passing or trying to be too clever. He had a few decent long-range shots not far wide but was too predictable at times as he looked to come inside. He also played some awful balls straight to them under no pressure. Some silly fouls too when they broke. I do think he rarely plays well when we play the better teams and is a bit of a flat (fat – no, that is harsh!) track bully. Clearly loads of talent and our best player still and 10 assists is impressive. Always think he can do something special, but he has had as many games like last night as good ones and rarely does he get games by the scruff of the neck. Do wonder what will happen in the summer – we will look to move on with him only having a year left of his contract you would think but not sure we get a great deal or who takes him (he is not up to the Premier League sadly for him) and may have to go back to Holland. I enjoy watching him play but think with his ability he can affect games much more.

Brooks 7.5/10 – Impressive performance where he showed his full range of skills – dribbling, driving at players and commanding attention of two and sometimes three men. He was a constant threat and carried the ball a lot. His close control and way he manipulates the ball is a joy to watch. The only negative and is a big one if he wants to play top level, is we do not see enough end product. A few blocked shots and he overplayed at times too. He had one effort saved but then took too many touches after a good run and one two with Peck. Had become much more consistent though. Bad booking and then sort of hobbled off (cramp) but again a positive step in him being a regular (which he absolutely should be).

Bamford 5/10 – I think that was one of his poorer performances even though he held it up well at times and found some decent bits of link play. We have to play it into feet, and he is great at that but means we have to play perfect football and have no option of anything behind (like Cov did). He missed an excellent chance where he made the opening with that cut back, he does but a weak effort (similar to misses at Southampton and Charlton). He has scored a few few but missed some big chances too. Thought he was not as involved 2nd half and when we went two up top not sure he linked that well with Campbell either.

Subs -


Campbell 6/10 – Thought he did quite well and the last few games seen more of the old Campbell in terms of running behind and offering a threat. He looked a bit more up for it and we did have a threat at least. The penalty I think is 50-50 – I thought it was a dive but watching it back then you can see there may have been a nick. He sort of overrun it which may be made ref make his mind up but one that we could have got?

Riedewald 6/10 - Steady enough and improved us have some control at least but they had packed the defence and we were moving it slowly. Ironically Soumare if he had kept energy levels, may have been able to drive and carry it but was tired. We had most of the ball the closing stages and he is good at that but will not really create much but good to have him back and expect him to start at QPR.

Hoever – He did alright again and was well forward and few pieces of link play and crosses that were not anticipated. He had a poor start to his United career but done alright in limited minutes the last few.

Chong – As above – he was lively and at least helped us get down the right-hand side. Not sure I see much of a role for him moving forward though?


Manager: Wilder 6/10 – The performance was decent to good and agreed with everything he said post-match lamenting the goals and us being a ‘nearly’ team. He picked the right team and changes he made were fine as he tried to find something. The goals are down to naivety and individual mistakes and are frustrating him but acknowledged that is down to the inexperience also of the side. I have agreed with much of what he has said after games – he had given some bizarre post-match interview previously. I think he knows we are a decent side but not ruthless and interesting he made the comment about us winning that game last year- albeit we were more pragmatic. Somehow his job with less resources is to marry the two for next season. I am concerned that under him we have a penchant for losing big games (to the better sides – lost 4 on the spin to the top two in 2 seasons now) and we are decent in many of the games but do not punish teams. He will know the season is sort of done now and maybe hard to keep pushing them in a few weeks when it becomes clear that we having nothing to play for. We do play a lot of middling sides who I think we are better than so should chalk up some wins.


Coventry – I did think they would be top 6 start of the season but surprised me how well they have done – they started tremendously and despite some recent dips, had plenty of margin for a few poor results – due to the start. I also maybe did not anticipate Southampton, Leicester, us, West Brom and a few others being nowhere near. Ipswich also I would have had higher than Coventry. I thought playoffs for definite but unless something goes dramatically wrong, they will probably go up automatically. Fair play to Lampard. He has had a fair bit of stick over the years but actually did well at Derby, albeit with some great loan talents and has done well at Coventry. He has not been too picky about his clubs and gone back down to the EFL so have to praise him for that. They have sold well and bought well and their recruitment has seen them improve year on year – to get to the point where they have options all over the side and along with Ipswich, the deepest squad in the Championship. They have a mixture of youth, experience but more importantly lots of powerful forward options and rotate these well. Many of the bench would get in every other Championship team.


If they get over the line, will be interesting to see how they recruit but they have some raw talent and offensive players who I think can do ok – I look at Leeds/Sunderland and see them closer to them than Burnley. They have steadily built the crowds up from a team in crisis playing at Northampton not long ago.

They were quite direct tonight and for long stretches it was as a struggle as we pinned them back. They played on the break, but Wright was a threat as was Rudoni playing off him, but we played all the football and looked in control. With better final balls and finishing, they could have been a few behind but will say they defended well and the keeper did not have much to do. I thought a better and more clinical side would have punished them, but they stayed in it. They responded well with two goals after conceding but it was not like constant pressure. They just found two big moments. After this they managed it very well – with stoppages/keeper feigning injury (we did it a lot last season to be fair) and limited us to nothing clear cut. They managed the win. Over the course of the game, they were second best I would say but found the big moments and defended well – so a classic away win and why they will go up. I do think Boro looked a more polished side and technically better but it matters little if you win and get promoted. They need a lot of work if they do go up but do have pace and power in the forward areas that will cause issues, even at the higher level.

Opponent Man of the Match – Wright was a constant threat and scored – involved in all of their best attacks. He was the standout, but Rudoni scored and nearly had another. He was a good signing and is getting back to full fitness. I thought the keeper looked commanding and the centre backs were good –even though one Latibeaudiere is quite small but they both blocked lots of shots and Thomas showed why we were interested in him – probably just what we need.

Opponent Weak link – Dasilva struggled with Brooks at times but showed some neat skills and footwork too. I was disappointed in Grimes and though Peck outplayed him but Onyeka did what he had to – shieled the defence – particularly second half.

Referee / Officials – John Busby. Thought he was extremely poor. He as inconsistent and seemed to get advantages wrong constantly. Also seemed to be in the way a lot. The big calls I felt were trickier despite some saying definite no or yes to penalties. Everyone will have opinions so I might be way off but my feeling was the first would have been soft – there is a pull but not enough for him to hit the deck like that. I was ok with this one not being given (discussed above). The second I though looked ‘divey’ and we have started to do this which is not good but watched it back and I think there is contact. I could see VAR possibly overturning that in the topflight. I think for a home team you think you may get one of those, but he gave us nothing all night. Some odd decisions not helped by an assistant on the South Stand side that seemed to not know the offside rule (player not interfering flagged off). Just thought Busby did not give us much and that he never had a real control of the game.



Crowd – Expected a better atmosphere and I was a bit disappointed with the home fans. Started noisy but then when we went behind was really quiet and went flat. Crowd also lower than I thought (think it was less than 27+ with lots of empty seats – more than 4k missing). Coventry fans were loud and got behind their team – which you expect at the top of the league. Always support them well. Nice to see the owners there and Rosen was honest about the mistake with Wilder – but we always seem to lose when they attend!

 

[Pittsburg Blade]

“after a long absence from the Premier League stretching back 25 years to 2021”

Holy crap DB, I just woke up to find it’s year 2046. Are Wednesday back yet?

 

[Sky Blues]

Ratings:

Cooper 4/10 – I feel harsh rating him so low but that is the life of a goalkeeper I suppose. He did ok in the first half and dealt with what he had to but did not have any saves to make? Second half he has to do better with the shot. It is so weak and just goes in too easily. We have seen this all season. Then a header goes in (not sure he had much chance) but two attempts on goal and two goals. He did make a decent low save low down. I have heard some people say that if we swapped keepers that we would have won? I am not sure, but I know that Cooper is making too many mistakes and goals are going in too easily. He needs some proper competition.

If we had swapped GK's you would have probably won. Our 1st goal should easily have been saved. Our second goal Rushworth would have most probably have got to the ball 1st. The only thing that Rushworth didn't get to was your deflected goal. He constantly took everything and even saved the 1 on 1 that was offside. He is class and I hope we can get to keep him. He has already stated he would love to sign for us permanently.

 

[United Aren't Back.]

.

 

[Sheffsteel]

Ratings:

Cooper 4/10 – I feel harsh rating him so low but that is the life of a goalkeeper I suppose. He did ok in the first half and dealt with what he had to but did not have any saves to make? Second half he has to do better with the shot. It is so weak and just goes in too easily. We have seen this all season. Then a header goes in (not sure he had much chance) but two attempts on goal and two goals. He did make a decent low save low down. I have heard some people say that if we swapped keepers that we would have won? I am not sure, but I know that Cooper is making too many mistakes and goals are going in too easily. He needs some proper competition.

Seriki 4/10 - First half played well and was well advance in terms of getting forward and linking well with Brooks. He was driving forward and looking an attacking threat. He then had the moment for the penalty – I thought he went down too easily and it was a bit soft but there was contact. You kind of have a higher threshold for penalties (whether that is right is another debate). He was more like a 6.5-7/10 though first half but then 2nd half, we saw a huge drop off. There have been questions of him in terms of his defensive work but I have not seen that this season? Last night we saw these issues though. He really struggled with the pace and his positional sense was all over the place – going too high or coming inside. Mason Clark beat him a few times. The first goal he has to show him outside. Even the second he lost the ball and then should have stopped the quick throw – as was out of position.

Burrows 7/10 – Continued his improvements and the best of the back line. Got forward well throughout and had a few decent crosses and shots even first half. Linked well and was advanced throughout. He did have a few issues with the high ball as a smaller player beat him a few times or they isolated Wright on him. At times he can be a bit weak at physical 50/50’s. Got forward though and scored a well taken goal – second in two games. Most of their attacks came down the left-hand side.

Bindon 4.5/10 – He has improved but when he plays strong and mobile strikers, he struggles generally. He gets beaten physically too easily and gets outmuscled. He was shrugged off it a few times but Wright is a good player so no shame in that. Kept fighting and trying but just does not have that physicality despite him being a decent size. I am not sure you can teach that? Maybe he fills out a bit and gets stronger? He made a few panicky passes too and started to struggle but I felt he stuck at it at least. The second goal he and Tanganga do not take responsibility –they had no one else to mark so have to react. I thought they had two better centre halves in terms of winning balls/blocking shots. We lack an authority and commanding figure at the back still and conceded soft goals as a result.

Tanganga 4/10 – A poor night where he struggled and seemed more bothered about grappling and grabbing than winning the ball or sticking to his task. He got a stupid early booking and then had other tussles at corners – he never just goes for the ball? Defensively he looked ropey and uncertain throughout. I thought both goals he can do better – to get out and block the shot – even if issues occurred before it and after (Cooper) and the second despite the deflection he needs to react better for me. He is smaller than I thought and means he can lose headers and he does not read the game great. He has been an ok signing, but I expected better and not sure he was worth the supposedly large fee/wages. He only has 2 years after this so maybe that shorter contract was with good reason? Maybe he does better next to a dominating centre half, but the issues above remain.

Peck 7.5/10 – Thought he was our best player on the night. He covered a lot of ground and used the ball well. Some great passes through (to Bamford and Brooks) and looked composed and a class act. Thought we controlled midfield first half totally. After they got back in it, it became a struggle and they packed the backline making it hard to pass through. I thought the players in front could have done better tonight and only when Campbell came on did we look a threat again with balls to be played behind. Peck has had two very good games this week though and it’s a case of him and one other.

Soumare 6.5/10 – Do you know what, I thought he did well for long stretches. Sure, he gave it away with a few bizarre passes straight to them but he also played a lot of good balls and always looked to go forward. Got across the field and moved around. He showed his athleticism and made a number of interceptions. He is a bit like Revells (the chocolates!) you never know what you are going to get but there is something there despite my criticism of him this season (others been even harsher – see Danny Hall!) but he did well today. Tired after the break a bit and the first goal there was a big chasm in midfield where both him and Peck (or one of them) should be. Wonder how much he will play now Riedewald and Rothwell are back (Phillips too in a few games) and do not see us signing him – so wonder if he will be used an impact/energy sub like we saw on Sunday.

O’Hare 5/10 - Thought he flattered to deceive again. We saw bits and pieces where he got on it but telegraphed too many passes and things did not come off at all. He kept working and trying to link but other than the flicked header, no real moments where he assisted or had an effort on goal. Seemed to just wander around without achieving much and for all the ball we had, we created little clear-cut things. I do like him as a player but he can be a bit hot and cold in terms of productivity.

Hamer 5/10 – The assist for the goal notwithstanding, the rest of his performance was extremely disappointing. He saw a lot of the ball but wasted a lot too with aimless passing or trying to be too clever. He had a few decent long-range shots not far wide but was too predictable at times as he looked to come inside. He also played some awful balls straight to them under no pressure. Some silly fouls too when they broke. I do think he rarely plays well when we play the better teams and is a bit of a flat (fat – no, that is harsh!) track bully. Clearly loads of talent and our best player still and 10 assists is impressive. Always think he can do something special, but he has had as many games like last night as good ones and rarely does he get games by the scruff of the neck. Do wonder what will happen in the summer – we will look to move on with him only having a year left of his contract you would think but not sure we get a great deal or who takes him (he is not up to the Premier League sadly for him) and may have to go back to Holland. I enjoy watching him play but think with his ability he can affect games much more.

Brooks 7.5/10 – Impressive performance where he showed his full range of skills – dribbling, driving at players and commanding attention of two and sometimes three men. He was a constant threat and carried the ball a lot. His close control and way he manipulates the ball is a joy to watch. The only negative and is a big one if he wants to play top level, is we do not see enough end product. A few blocked shots and he overplayed at times too. He had one effort saved but then took too many touches after a good run and one two with Peck. Had become much more consistent though. Bad booking and then sort of hobbled off (cramp) but again a positive step in him being a regular (which he absolutely should be).

Bamford 5/10 – I think that was one of his poorer performances even though he held it up well at times and found some decent bits of link play. We have to play it into feet, and he is great at that but means we have to play perfect football and have no option of anything behind (like Cov did). He missed an excellent chance where he made the opening with that cut back, he does but a weak effort (similar to misses at Southampton and Charlton). He has scored a few few but missed some big chances too. Thought he was not as involved 2nd half and when we went two up top not sure he linked that well with Campbell either.

Subs -


Campbell 6/10 – Thought he did quite well and the last few games seen more of the old Campbell in terms of running behind and offering a threat. He looked a bit more up for it and we did have a threat at least. The penalty I think is 50-50 – I thought it was a dive but watching it back then you can see there may have been a nick. He sort of overrun it which may be made ref make his mind up but one that we could have got?

Riedewald 6/10 - Steady enough and improved us have some control at least but they had packed the defence and we were moving it slowly. Ironically Soumare if he had kept energy levels, may have been able to drive and carry it but was tired. We had most of the ball the closing stages and he is good at that but will not really create much but good to have him back and expect him to start at QPR.

Hoever – He did alright again and was well forward and few pieces of link play and crosses that were not anticipated. He had a poor start to his United career but done alright in limited minutes the last few.

Chong – As above – he was lively and at least helped us get down the right-hand side. Not sure I see much of a role for him moving forward though?


Manager: Wilder 6/10 – The performance was decent to good and agreed with everything he said post-match lamenting the goals and us being a ‘nearly’ team. He picked the right team and changes he made were fine as he tried to find something. The goals are down to naivety and individual mistakes and are frustrating him but acknowledged that is down to the inexperience also of the side. I have agreed with much of what he has said after games – he had given some bizarre post-match interview previously. I think he knows we are a decent side but not ruthless and interesting he made the comment about us winning that game last year- albeit we were more pragmatic. Somehow his job with less resources is to marry the two for next season. I am concerned that under him we have a penchant for losing big games (to the better sides – lost 4 on the spin to the top two in 2 seasons now) and we are decent in many of the games but do not punish teams. He will know the season is sort of done now and maybe hard to keep pushing them in a few weeks when it becomes clear that we having nothing to play for. We do play a lot of middling sides who I think we are better than so should chalk up some wins.


Coventry – I did think they would be top 6 start of the season but surprised me how well they have done – they started tremendously and despite some recent dips, had plenty of margin for a few poor results – due to the start. I also maybe did not anticipate Southampton, Leicester, us, West Brom and a few others being nowhere near. Ipswich also I would have had higher than Coventry. I thought playoffs for definite but unless something goes dramatically wrong, they will probably go up automatically. Fair play to Lampard. He has had a fair bit of stick over the years but actually did well at Derby, albeit with some great loan talents and has done well at Coventry. He has not been too picky about his clubs and gone back down to the EFL so have to praise him for that. They have sold well and bought well and their recruitment has seen them improve year on year – to get to the point where they have options all over the side and along with Ipswich, the deepest squad in the Championship. They have a mixture of youth, experience but more importantly lots of powerful forward options and rotate these well. Many of the bench would get in every other Championship team.


If they get over the line, will be interesting to see how they recruit but they have some raw talent and offensive players who I think can do ok – I look at Leeds/Sunderland and see them closer to them than Burnley. They have steadily built the crowds up from a team in crisis playing at Northampton not long ago.

They were quite direct tonight and for long stretches it was as a struggle as we pinned them back. They played on the break, but Wright was a threat as was Rudoni playing off him, but we played all the football and looked in control. With better final balls and finishing, they could have been a few behind but will say they defended well and the keeper did not have much to do. I thought a better and more clinical side would have punished them, but they stayed in it. They responded well with two goals after conceding but it was not like constant pressure. They just found two big moments. After this they managed it very well – with stoppages/keeper feigning injury (we did it a lot last season to be fair) and limited us to nothing clear cut. They managed the win. Over the course of the game, they were second best I would say but found the big moments and defended well – so a classic away win and why they will go up. I do think Boro looked a more polished side and technically better but it matters little if you win and get promoted. They need a lot of work if they do go up but do have pace and power in the forward areas that will cause issues, even at the higher level.

Opponent Man of the Match – Wright was a constant threat and scored – involved in all of their best attacks. He was the standout, but Rudoni scored and nearly had another. He was a good signing and is getting back to full fitness. I thought the keeper looked commanding and the centre backs were good –even though one Latibeaudiere is quite small but they both blocked lots of shots and Thomas showed why we were interested in him – probably just what we need.

Opponent Weak link – Dasilva struggled with Brooks at times but showed some neat skills and footwork too. I was disappointed in Grimes and though Peck outplayed him but Onyeka did what he had to – shieled the defence – particularly second half.

Referee / Officials – John Busby. Thought he was extremely poor. He as inconsistent and seemed to get advantages wrong constantly. Also seemed to be in the way a lot. The big calls I felt were trickier despite some saying definite no or yes to penalties. Everyone will have opinions so I might be way off but my feeling was the first would have been soft – there is a pull but not enough for him to hit the deck like that. I was ok with this one not being given (discussed above). The second I though looked ‘divey’ and we have started to do this which is not good but watched it back and I think there is contact. I could see VAR possibly overturning that in the topflight. I think for a home team you think you may get one of those, but he gave us nothing all night. Some odd decisions not helped by an assistant on the South Stand side that seemed to not know the offside rule (player not interfering flagged off). Just thought Busby did not give us much and that he never had a real control of the game.



Crowd – Expected a better atmosphere and I was a bit disappointed with the home fans. Started noisy but then when we went behind was really quiet and went flat. Crowd also lower than I thought (think it was less than 27+ with lots of empty seats – more than 4k missing). Coventry fans were loud and got behind their team – which you expect at the top of the league. Always support them well. Nice to see the owners there and Rosen was honest about the mistake with Wilder – but we always seem to lose when they attend!

Crowd was 27,695……our current capacity is 31K……so 3,300 empty seats, most in the Bramall Lane upper tier.

When the match started we were concerned about starting Soumare becuase he’s had several games where the speed and physicality of a game has passed him by. However during the match a few times we kept commenting that Soumare was having a decent game.
Many (including me) had already written him off but him and Peck played well together and won midfield.

Also agree that Tanganga has been slightly dissappointing a lately, he’s starting to look like an average Championship level central defender.
It wouldn’t be so bad but we paid so much for him and he doesn’t look that level.

Thought Hamer was quite poor too, credit to him for continuing to try difficult passes and difficult shots but he kept giving the ball away.

OVERALL….I actually enjoyed the game and think we played well…..we looked slightly the better side and deserved at least a draw.

 

[PUSBCCFC]

Ratings:

Cooper 4/10 – I feel harsh rating him so low but that is the life of a goalkeeper I suppose. He did ok in the first half and dealt with what he had to but did not have any saves to make? Second half he has to do better with the shot. It is so weak and just goes in too easily. We have seen this all season. Then a header goes in (not sure he had much chance) but two attempts on goal and two goals. He did make a decent low save low down. I have heard some people say that if we swapped keepers that we would have won? I am not sure, but I know that Cooper is making too many mistakes and goals are going in too easily. He needs some proper competition.

Seriki 4/10 - First half played well and was well advance in terms of getting forward and linking well with Brooks. He was driving forward and looking an attacking threat. He then had the moment for the penalty – I thought he went down too easily and it was a bit soft but there was contact. You kind of have a higher threshold for penalties (whether that is right is another debate). He was more like a 6.5-7/10 though first half but then 2nd half, we saw a huge drop off. There have been questions of him in terms of his defensive work but I have not seen that this season? Last night we saw these issues though. He really struggled with the pace and his positional sense was all over the place – going too high or coming inside. Mason Clark beat him a few times. The first goal he has to show him outside. Even the second he lost the ball and then should have stopped the quick throw – as was out of position.

Burrows 7/10 – Continued his improvements and the best of the back line. Got forward well throughout and had a few decent crosses and shots even first half. Linked well and was advanced throughout. He did have a few issues with the high ball as a smaller player beat him a few times or they isolated Wright on him. At times he can be a bit weak at physical 50/50’s. Got forward though and scored a well taken goal – second in two games. Most of their attacks came down the left-hand side.

Bindon 4.5/10 – He has improved but when he plays strong and mobile strikers, he struggles generally. He gets beaten physically too easily and gets outmuscled. He was shrugged off it a few times but Wright is a good player so no shame in that. Kept fighting and trying but just does not have that physicality despite him being a decent size. I am not sure you can teach that? Maybe he fills out a bit and gets stronger? He made a few panicky passes too and started to struggle but I felt he stuck at it at least. The second goal he and Tanganga do not take responsibility –they had no one else to mark so have to react. I thought they had two better centre halves in terms of winning balls/blocking shots. We lack an authority and commanding figure at the back still and conceded soft goals as a result.

Tanganga 4/10 – A poor night where he struggled and seemed more bothered about grappling and grabbing than winning the ball or sticking to his task. He got a stupid early booking and then had other tussles at corners – he never just goes for the ball? Defensively he looked ropey and uncertain throughout. I thought both goals he can do better – to get out and block the shot – even if issues occurred before it and after (Cooper) and the second despite the deflection he needs to react better for me. He is smaller than I thought and means he can lose headers and he does not read the game great. He has been an ok signing, but I expected better and not sure he was worth the supposedly large fee/wages. He only has 2 years after this so maybe that shorter contract was with good reason? Maybe he does better next to a dominating centre half, but the issues above remain.

Peck 7.5/10 – Thought he was our best player on the night. He covered a lot of ground and used the ball well. Some great passes through (to Bamford and Brooks) and looked composed and a class act. Thought we controlled midfield first half totally. After they got back in it, it became a struggle and they packed the backline making it hard to pass through. I thought the players in front could have done better tonight and only when Campbell came on did we look a threat again with balls to be played behind. Peck has had two very good games this week though and it’s a case of him and one other.

Soumare 6.5/10 – Do you know what, I thought he did well for long stretches. Sure, he gave it away with a few bizarre passes straight to them but he also played a lot of good balls and always looked to go forward. Got across the field and moved around. He showed his athleticism and made a number of interceptions. He is a bit like Revells (the chocolates!) you never know what you are going to get but there is something there despite my criticism of him this season (others been even harsher – see Danny Hall!) but he did well today. Tired after the break a bit and the first goal there was a big chasm in midfield where both him and Peck (or one of them) should be. Wonder how much he will play now Riedewald and Rothwell are back (Phillips too in a few games) and do not see us signing him – so wonder if he will be used an impact/energy sub like we saw on Sunday.

O’Hare 5/10 - Thought he flattered to deceive again. We saw bits and pieces where he got on it but telegraphed too many passes and things did not come off at all. He kept working and trying to link but other than the flicked header, no real moments where he assisted or had an effort on goal. Seemed to just wander around without achieving much and for all the ball we had, we created little clear-cut things. I do like him as a player but he can be a bit hot and cold in terms of productivity.

Hamer 5/10 – The assist for the goal notwithstanding, the rest of his performance was extremely disappointing. He saw a lot of the ball but wasted a lot too with aimless passing or trying to be too clever. He had a few decent long-range shots not far wide but was too predictable at times as he looked to come inside. He also played some awful balls straight to them under no pressure. Some silly fouls too when they broke. I do think he rarely plays well when we play the better teams and is a bit of a flat (fat – no, that is harsh!) track bully. Clearly loads of talent and our best player still and 10 assists is impressive. Always think he can do something special, but he has had as many games like last night as good ones and rarely does he get games by the scruff of the neck. Do wonder what will happen in the summer – we will look to move on with him only having a year left of his contract you would think but not sure we get a great deal or who takes him (he is not up to the Premier League sadly for him) and may have to go back to Holland. I enjoy watching him play but think with his ability he can affect games much more.

Brooks 7.5/10 – Impressive performance where he showed his full range of skills – dribbling, driving at players and commanding attention of two and sometimes three men. He was a constant threat and carried the ball a lot. His close control and way he manipulates the ball is a joy to watch. The only negative and is a big one if he wants to play top level, is we do not see enough end product. A few blocked shots and he overplayed at times too. He had one effort saved but then took too many touches after a good run and one two with Peck. Had become much more consistent though. Bad booking and then sort of hobbled off (cramp) but again a positive step in him being a regular (which he absolutely should be).

Bamford 5/10 – I think that was one of his poorer performances even though he held it up well at times and found some decent bits of link play. We have to play it into feet, and he is great at that but means we have to play perfect football and have no option of anything behind (like Cov did). He missed an excellent chance where he made the opening with that cut back, he does but a weak effort (similar to misses at Southampton and Charlton). He has scored a few few but missed some big chances too. Thought he was not as involved 2nd half and when we went two up top not sure he linked that well with Campbell either.

Subs -


Campbell 6/10 – Thought he did quite well and the last few games seen more of the old Campbell in terms of running behind and offering a threat. He looked a bit more up for it and we did have a threat at least. The penalty I think is 50-50 – I thought it was a dive but watching it back then you can see there may have been a nick. He sort of overrun it which may be made ref make his mind up but one that we could have got?

Riedewald 6/10 - Steady enough and improved us have some control at least but they had packed the defence and we were moving it slowly. Ironically Soumare if he had kept energy levels, may have been able to drive and carry it but was tired. We had most of the ball the closing stages and he is good at that but will not really create much but good to have him back and expect him to start at QPR.

Hoever – He did alright again and was well forward and few pieces of link play and crosses that were not anticipated. He had a poor start to his United career but done alright in limited minutes the last few.

Chong – As above – he was lively and at least helped us get down the right-hand side. Not sure I see much of a role for him moving forward though?


Manager: Wilder 6/10 – The performance was decent to good and agreed with everything he said post-match lamenting the goals and us being a ‘nearly’ team. He picked the right team and changes he made were fine as he tried to find something. The goals are down to naivety and individual mistakes and are frustrating him but acknowledged that is down to the inexperience also of the side. I have agreed with much of what he has said after games – he had given some bizarre post-match interview previously. I think he knows we are a decent side but not ruthless and interesting he made the comment about us winning that game last year- albeit we were more pragmatic. Somehow his job with less resources is to marry the two for next season. I am concerned that under him we have a penchant for losing big games (to the better sides – lost 4 on the spin to the top two in 2 seasons now) and we are decent in many of the games but do not punish teams. He will know the season is sort of done now and maybe hard to keep pushing them in a few weeks when it becomes clear that we having nothing to play for. We do play a lot of middling sides who I think we are better than so should chalk up some wins.


Coventry – I did think they would be top 6 start of the season but surprised me how well they have done – they started tremendously and despite some recent dips, had plenty of margin for a few poor results – due to the start. I also maybe did not anticipate Southampton, Leicester, us, West Brom and a few others being nowhere near. Ipswich also I would have had higher than Coventry. I thought playoffs for definite but unless something goes dramatically wrong, they will probably go up automatically. Fair play to Lampard. He has had a fair bit of stick over the years but actually did well at Derby, albeit with some great loan talents and has done well at Coventry. He has not been too picky about his clubs and gone back down to the EFL so have to praise him for that. They have sold well and bought well and their recruitment has seen them improve year on year – to get to the point where they have options all over the side and along with Ipswich, the deepest squad in the Championship. They have a mixture of youth, experience but more importantly lots of powerful forward options and rotate these well. Many of the bench would get in every other Championship team.


If they get over the line, will be interesting to see how they recruit but they have some raw talent and offensive players who I think can do ok – I look at Leeds/Sunderland and see them closer to them than Burnley. They have steadily built the crowds up from a team in crisis playing at Northampton not long ago.

They were quite direct tonight and for long stretches it was as a struggle as we pinned them back. They played on the break, but Wright was a threat as was Rudoni playing off him, but we played all the football and looked in control. With better final balls and finishing, they could have been a few behind but will say they defended well and the keeper did not have much to do. I thought a better and more clinical side would have punished them, but they stayed in it. They responded well with two goals after conceding but it was not like constant pressure. They just found two big moments. After this they managed it very well – with stoppages/keeper feigning injury (we did it a lot last season to be fair) and limited us to nothing clear cut. They managed the win. Over the course of the game, they were second best I would say but found the big moments and defended well – so a classic away win and why they will go up. I do think Boro looked a more polished side and technically better but it matters little if you win and get promoted. They need a lot of work if they do go up but do have pace and power in the forward areas that will cause issues, even at the higher level.

Opponent Man of the Match – Wright was a constant threat and scored – involved in all of their best attacks. He was the standout, but Rudoni scored and nearly had another. He was a good signing and is getting back to full fitness. I thought the keeper looked commanding and the centre backs were good –even though one Latibeaudiere is quite small but they both blocked lots of shots and Thomas showed why we were interested in him – probably just what we need.

Opponent Weak link – Dasilva struggled with Brooks at times but showed some neat skills and footwork too. I was disappointed in Grimes and though Peck outplayed him but Onyeka did what he had to – shieled the defence – particularly second half.

Referee / Officials – John Busby. Thought he was extremely poor. He as inconsistent and seemed to get advantages wrong constantly. Also seemed to be in the way a lot. The big calls I felt were trickier despite some saying definite no or yes to penalties. Everyone will have opinions so I might be way off but my feeling was the first would have been soft – there is a pull but not enough for him to hit the deck like that. I was ok with this one not being given (discussed above). The second I though looked ‘divey’ and we have started to do this which is not good but watched it back and I think there is contact. I could see VAR possibly overturning that in the topflight. I think for a home team you think you may get one of those, but he gave us nothing all night. Some odd decisions not helped by an assistant on the South Stand side that seemed to not know the offside rule (player not interfering flagged off). Just thought Busby did not give us much and that he never had a real control of the game.



Crowd – Expected a better atmosphere and I was a bit disappointed with the home fans. Started noisy but then when we went behind was really quiet and went flat. Crowd also lower than I thought (think it was less than 27+ with lots of empty seats – more than 4k missing). Coventry fans were loud and got behind their team – which you expect at the top of the league. Always support them well. Nice to see the owners there and Rosen was honest about the mistake with Wilder – but we always seem to lose when they attend!

Excellent summary.

 

[Fjortoft's Aeroplane]

I agree Soumaré gave a decent accout of himself, certainly can't accuse him of hiding. For me he's miles ahead of Arblaster currently.

Hamer and O'Hare quite rightly walk into our XI, but it's a shame we have no exciting plan B when they're having quieter games. It's telling Cannon can't get minutes even when they're underperforming.

Overall we gave them a good game, a draw would have been a fair result, if only we could have had 1 or 2 penalty shouts...

 

[HodgysBrokenThumb]

If we had swapped GK's you would have probably won. Our 1st goal should easily have been saved. Our second goal Rushworth would have most probably have got to the ball 1st. The only thing that Rushworth didn't get to was your deflected goal. He constantly took everything and even saved the 1 on 1 that was offside. He is class and I hope we can get to keep him. He has already stated he would love to sign for us permanently.

Rushworth looks competent, but while we know that time-wasting and feigning injury are what goalies are coached to do from an early age now, he would be well-advised to take a different approach to opposition fans. At the final whistle, he came towards the Kop and got into angry exchanges of gestures with the crowd behind the goal. A gentle smile to acknowledge a hard-earned victory would have been fine, but winding up a crowd who were already angered by his cheating (again, we know that is now standard behaviour) and by the ref not giving a stonewall penalty near the end, was risking provoking serious trouble. I can’t see what he gained by creating that hostility. He had plenty of time to go and enjoy the celebrations with the Coventry fans.

 

[54yrblade]

A 'nearly team' sums us up perfectly

Last season and again this season.

I don't see it changing next season with the same management team, losing a couple and less cash to throw at it.

 

[Coolblade]

I think you are being harsh on our centre backs. Against a confident promotion chasing team which isn’t just the top scoring in the league, but is by a big margin (scoring 70 goals next best 56) we kept them to a miserly xG of 0.64 (it’s not the defenders fault, Cooper let it through him). Scoring them 4 and 4.5 seems too low

 

[Deadbat]

“after a long absence from the Premier League stretching back 25 years to 2021”

Holy crap DB, I just woke up to find it’s year 2046. Are Wednesday back yet?

Oops. Meant 2001 of course

 

[bakeblade]

Rushworth looks competent, but while we know that time-wasting and feigning injury are what goalies are coached to do from an early age now, he would be well-advised to take a different approach to opposition fans. At the final whistle, he came towards the Kop and got into angry exchanges of gestures with the crowd behind the goal. A gentle smile to acknowledge a hard-earned victory would have been fine, but winding up a crowd who were already angered by his cheating (again, we know that is now standard behaviour) and by the ref not giving a stonewall penalty near the end, was risking provoking serious trouble. I can’t see what he gained by creating that hostility. He had plenty of time to go and enjoy the celebrations with the Coventry fans.

He should face a fine for his antics at the final whistle winding up the kop

 

[Deadbat]

I think you are being harsh on our centre backs. Against a confident promotion chasing team which isn’t just the top scoring in the league, but is by a big margin (scoring 70 goals next best 56) we kept them to a miserly xG of 0.64 (it’s not the defenders fault, Cooper let it through him). Scoring them 4 and 4.5 seems too low

I felt they has very few attacks but whenever they went long and down the middle they lost out- mostly to Wright, who is a real threat.

They did not win enough duels and seemed full stretch.

The goals they are culpable

1st - Tanganga does not get out to block so has to take some blame along with Seriki and Cooper

2nd - We did not stop the cross and it deflects but both need to react. They stand there watching and do not attack the ball or put a body on Rudoni.

We concede two many soft goals down the middle.

 

[Coolblade]

I know I’m being too statto, but Bindon won more aerial duels than any player on either side.

There was a short period in the first half when a couple of straight long balls weren’t dealt with, and I had real concerns - but afterwards we looked more solid (I thought). But both centre halves were far from perfect, and everyone is entitled to their opinion.

 

[Pittsburg Blade]

I felt they has very few attacks but whenever they went long and down the middle they lost out- mostly to Wright, who is a real threat.

They did not win enough duels and seemed full stretch.

The goals they are culpable

1st - Tanganga does not get out to block so has to take some blame along with Seriki and Cooper

2nd - We did not stop the cross and it deflects but both need to react. They stand there watching and do not attack the ball or put a body on Rudoni.

We concede two many soft goals down the middle.

I noticed for the first goal their number 10 cleverly blocked off Tanganga with his body to create room for the shot. Reminded me of Billy Sharp.

 

[Lower Drop Blade]

Agree with Soumare thought he played well

 

[blades_95]

I actually thought last night was one of Campbell’s worst cameos. Constantly offside (often lazily), gave free kicks away, struggled to get the ball under control, and a theatrical dive and yellow card to top it off (as you say may have been clipped, but in real time it looked like an obvious dive).

I think it’s odd how Cannon went from starting & playing regularly a few weeks ago where he started to look okay, to now not even getting 20 minutes instead of a poor Campbell who can barely run.

 

[SLB]

If we had swapped GK's you would have probably won. Our 1st goal should easily have been saved. Our second goal Rushworth would have most probably have got to the ball 1st. The only thing that Rushworth didn't get to was your deflected goal. He constantly took everything and even saved the 1 on 1 that was offside. He is class and I hope we can get to keep him. He has already stated he would love to sign for us permanently.

Are you also on the forums of any other clubs? Serious question.

 

[Houston_Blade]

I noticed for the first goal their number 10 cleverly blocked off Tanganga with his body to create room for the shot. Reminded me of Billy Sharp.

That would be the number 10 who was booked early doors and continued to push, shove and foul all game without further punishment?!

 

[Sky Blues]

Rushworth looks competent, but while we know that time-wasting and feigning injury are what goalies are coached to do from an early age now, he would be well-advised to take a different approach to opposition fans. At the final whistle, he came towards the Kop and got into angry exchanges of gestures with the crowd behind the goal. A gentle smile to acknowledge a hard-earned victory would have been fine, but winding up a crowd who were already angered by his cheating (again, we know that is now standard behaviour) and by the ref not giving a stonewall penalty near the end, was risking provoking serious trouble. I can’t see what he gained by creating that hostility. He had plenty of time to go and enjoy the celebrations with the Coventry fans.

That's the first time he has done it. We've had it done to us lots including by yourselves. You also did it against Wednesday.

Your supporters were giving him lots of grief including w@nker and similar. If you're man enough to give a player grief for no reason you should be man enough to handle a player waving back. You must be top of the table for kicking off after games. That doesn’t happen for no reason.

 

[Sky Blues]

He should face a fine for his antics at the final whistle winding up the kop

Should your club be fined for not controlling their supporters? Do you think your supporters should be able to do as they like and get nothing back?

There's enough videos of it happening.

 

[HodgysBrokenThumb]

That's the first time he has done it. We've had it done to us lots including by yourselves. You also did it against Wednesday.

Your supporters were giving him lots of grief including w@nker and similar. If you're man enough to give a player grief for no reason you should be man enough to handle a player waving back. You must be top of the table for kicking off after games. That doesn’t happen for no reason.

I agree with some of that, but I was offering thoughts on what is best for him. The bit I disagree clearly with you is that he was not ‘waving back’. There was an unhealthy aggression in his reaction, and whether or not idiotic fan behaviour is wrong, it is unwise and unnecessary to be provocative. Much better for goalkeepers to keep a good relationship with fans behind the goal. And I am not being blinkered - I hate it when our goalkeepers do the 65th minute sit down or take for ever with a goal kick - it ruins the game, and the game is the most important thing.

 

[Sky Blues]

Are you also on the forums of any other clubs? Serious question.

Only those who are in the promotion push when we're in the chase. Good to chat football and player availability. You have a lot of decent people on here and a lot of traffic.

Good luck for the rest of the season.

 

[Sky Blues]

I agree with some of that, but I was offering thoughts on what is best for him. The bit I disagree clearly with you is that he was not ‘waving back’. There was an unhealthy aggression in his reaction, and whether or not idiotic fan behaviour is wrong, it is unwise and unnecessary to be provocative. Much better for goalkeepers to keep a good relationship with fans behind the goal. And I am not being blinkered - I hate it when our goalkeepers do the 65th minute sit down or take for ever with a goal kick - it ruins the game, and the game is the most important thing.

I agree. Wasn't happy to see him do it but at least he did it to a side that does it themselves.

What we have this season is the team togetherness you normally have. Sakamoto frequently gets bad tackles but suddenly when the other side decides to kick off they are surrounded by our big players who don't take prisoners. In one game our opponents went for our smaller players after the game our big lads joined in laughing at the same time. It stopped immediately.

It's good to finally have a side that can give more than our opponents try to give.

 

[Houston_Blade]

I agree. Wasn't happy to see him do it but at least he did it to a side that does it themselves.

What we have this season is the team togetherness you normally have. Sakamoto frequently gets bad tackles but suddenly when the other side decides to kick off they are surrounded by our big players who don't take prisoners. In one game our opponents went for our smaller players after the game our big lads joined in laughing at the same time. It stopped immediately.

It's good to finally have a side that can give more than our opponents try to give.

Sakamoto looks a very good player, I was impressed with him. Was also impressed with Wright, he’s such a handful. Rushworth looks a good keeper as well.

Onyeka less so, he just looked like a spoiler and the ref let him get away with it. Eccles was just a pure kicker when he came on.

 

[Sky Blues]

Sakamoto looks a very good player, I was impressed with him. Was also impressed with Wright, he’s such a handful. Rushworth looks a good keeper as well.

Onyeka less so, he just looked like a spoiler and the ref let him get away with it. Eccles was just a pure kicker when he came on.

Sakamoto is very good but gets targeted all the time. Wright when on form is unstoppable but has just ended a run of 2 goals in 19 games. Ended it with a hat trick against Middlesbrough.

Onyeka has made a massive difference to us. Has been the steel in midfield that we needed. 3 games 3 wins. Wasn't standout against yourselves like his previous 2 games but still did a job.

Eccles is a home grown player who has raised through the divisions with us. Your players tried kicking lumps out of him as soon as he came on. He gave it back.

 

[HodgysBrokenThumb]

I agree. Wasn't happy to see him do it but at least he did it to a side that does it themselves.

Not quite true - he didn’t do it to the ‘side’, he did it to the fans. I would more naturally call them ‘supporters’ (I am old), and ironically the people behind the goal on the Kop are often blamed for the lack of atmosphere at the Lane, as it has a lot of older people who have sat there for many years (the view is excellent). Despite my age, I still make plenty of noise. I do like to help the ref by counting the seconds down when the opposing keeper is holding the ball (they are never penalised for this), and pointing out when a goal kick takes an age. That is fair game, in my view.

 

[bakeblade]

Should your club be fined for not controlling their supporters? Do you think your supporters should be able to do as they like and get nothing back?

There's enough videos of it happening.

Oh come on, it's part of football to give the opposition players some verbal stick.
Your keepers reactions in front of the kop was definitely over the top and risked causing some real trouble.

 

[Houston_Blade]

Sakamoto is very good but gets targeted all the time. Wright when on form is unstoppable but has just ended a run of 2 goals in 19 games. Ended it with a hat trick against Middlesbrough.

Onyeka has made a massive difference to us. Has been the steel in midfield that we needed. 3 games 3 wins. Wasn't standout against yourselves like his previous 2 games but still did a job.

Eccles is a home grown player who has raised through the divisions with us. Your players tried kicking lumps out of him as soon as he came on. He gave it back.

If you say so, set of dirty cloggers in midfield. Next season will be fun for you.