United 1 Watford 0 - report

[Deadbat]

The Blades were able to get back to winning ways as they saw off fellow promotion contenders Watford at Bramall Lane and avenged the opening day 1-0 reverse to the Hornets, with a victory by the same scoreline in favour of the home side. It was not a classic but United were much more solid in all aspects of their play, particularly defensively and after an even first half, the Blades were the better side after the break and a sustained spell of pressure resulted in McBurnie’s header going in off defender Porteous for the winning goal. The visitors did not offer too much in response but did have a few opportunities at the death with some goal mouth scrambles that the Blades cleared as the ball pinballed around their box.



Heckingbottom reintroduced the veteran Fleck for Doyle and brought back Ahmedhodzic for Basham and Ndiaye for Jebbison in three changes in the starting line up. Watford had beaten West Brom earlier in the week but their from overall, like the Blades own, was quite patchy. They did start with a powerful and fast forward line with Pedro, Davis and Sarr all selected.



After a twice taken kick off, United tried to get on the ball and Fleck was busy early but Watford’s movement and fluidity meant it was an even game. Gaspar has a shot off target before Bogle had an effort blocked after good work from Norwood and Berge. Lowe was getting space down the left but twice his delivery was poor and the other way Sarr was looking to get beyond him. Davis has a shot saved by Foderingham but then United broke and Hoedt cynically brought Ndiaye down. The advantage was played but eventually the yellow card was produced.



Ahmedhodzic was then carded for a silly, if softer foul, the other way and this presented a chance for Davis from a header from the Sema free kick but it drifted wide. He maybe should have done better and United will be questioning their defending.



McBurnie had an effort wide after Norwood whipped his cross in before Ndiaye’s shot was off target when he maybe also should have forced at least a save, after a good run from Fleck. Pedro went down innocuously and was soon back on his feet but Lowe was then beaten for skill by Sarr and the booking was probably right despite another theatrical fall.



From the free kick, the ball bounced around and Foderingham had to dive on it and clasp it and two players from either side, including McBurnie went down and the striker needed treatment. United won two corners but Robinson had his first shot blocked and was over with a sliced effort soon after. Another injury soon after frustrated the fans. Indeed the half had seen a number of stoppages and five minutes of extra time were played but nothing more of note occurred in a game that neither side had done enough to test either keeper.



After the break United’s intensity improved and the crowd responded to this better play. McBurnie turned Porteous, who joined his centre back partner into the book. Norwood took it and Bachmann dived low down to clutch the ball. United continued to come and Bogle and Berge nearly linked up. Bogle went on a weaving run and had his effort blocked and the home side were now seemingly in control although Sarr’s run kept the Blades honest and Ahmedhodzic got his foot in to block. The ball also bounced off a Watford attacker from a dangerous cross and dropped for Foderingham in a rare foray.



United were back on the attack and the Bosnian was involved in the other end, as the ball was played across from Fleck, and his left footed effort as it bounced up was not far over.



Kone came on for Louza as the visitors tried to find fresh impetus and Osborn came on for Lowe who had struggled and Fleck, who was tiring but had done well, was replaced by Doyle.



Ahmedhodzic then drilled a ball across, that was probably a cross and Bogle headed home but was flagged offside. The pressure was not incessant but was mounting and United had good control of the ball and game now. Bogle was more of a threat and United as a team were playing higher up the field.



McBurnie did well and played in Doyle whose powerful shot was fisted away before Osborn hit the rebound which the keeper did well to get up and hold the follow up. Bogle was then upended by Kone after nice skill saw him jink away from the substitute. United were looking like they may make the breakthrough and it came after they had seemingly been denied. A lovely ball from McBurnie spotted the excellent bursting run from Berge saw him get in and Bachmann had to stop him from point blank range. The corner came in from Norwood and the marking was awful as McBurnie pulled round the back and headed goalwards – it bounced off PORTEOUS (OG) and nutmegged the keeper. It was clearly just over the line as referee Stroud pointed to his watch as the players wheeled away towards the Kop! It was a vital breakthrough in a tight game but one United deserved for their efforts after half time.



Assombalonga came on for Sema before good work from McBurnie held the ball up well for the home side. Soon after Sharp replaced McBurnie who had given his all for the cause and got a standing ovation. Araujo replaced Davis as the game ticked into the final 5 minutes of normal time and United were keeping the ball well and restricting Watford to few chances. Sharp played in Berge who fired well over before a silly foul from Ahmedhodzic gave Watford a free kick on the angle but it was cleared from Robinson.



Jebbison came on for Ndiaye right as the game ticked into five minutes of stoppage time around this change and Watford finally started to cause some problems with late pressure. The visitors won two corners and a free kick and one ball Berge had to hack clear before right at the death, a corner came in and the ball bounced around and Choudhury returned it, it bounced off defenders and attackers and you felt it was inevitable Watford would force it home. The ball was hacked clear by Sharp and Stroud’s whistle came straight after with United’s players and fans celebrations and relief at the vital three points, clear to all.

 

[Deadbat]

United – Feels a big win and three points after the last week when everyone felt miserable after the turnaround and Boro gaining rapidly on us. We were not brilliant and not sure we were that much better/worse than we were for an hour v Boro and 45 minute at Millwall but what we were is much more solid, organised and with a better shape. We did not cough up chances nor did the opposition run through us too much. We were compact and did what we had to. Yes they had a few chances down the left side of our defence as Lowe was not tight enough and another few runs 2nd half but not sure Wes is troubled much at all in the game? Of course it is nervous at the end when they knock balls in and we have the scrambles and of course another day it could bounce another way and go in. For United in an attacking sense, we did some ok things but like Watford were not that clinical in our set up at all. Neither side had any real chances of note first half and it was even really. We had some spells, as they did and there was little in it.



I felt we could definitely up it and to be fair we did and had a good 20-25 mins after the break which culminated with the winning goal. The wing backs (when Osborn came for Lowe and Bogle much better), Anel and Ndiaye improved and we forced the pace. We had much more of the play and they became sloppy. We had some decent bits of interchange and some chances. Their keeper made a few saves, we had a goal disallowed and we forced the pressure. We looked the more likely even if not battering them and the intensity improved. We played higher up the field and to a man the side played higher up too. The goal was kind of coming you felt. After this we did ok and Lowe/Doyle did well down the left tightening this area up. We did the little things and it seemed we would see it out without any real danger. Of course in stoppage time they had a few scrambles as we gave away silly free kicks and balls came in but in the end, I thought we did just about enough to win a scrappy game where little was created. We were not great with the ball when we had it in good areas and too many of our creative players were up and down (Berge, Bogle, Ndiaye, Norwood) but whilst we did not have many opportunities, we had more than them. They ran out of steam and started losing it and we had control of the midfield for the first time for a few games. We had a much better shape in terms of without the ball and were harder to break down. In the end take away the late melees and we looked ok and not troubled too much. The defence kept it solid and did the basics. In the end this better shape and protection for the defence meant we kept a clean sheet against a good attack and get a vital win.



We now have a continued run of hard games. Disappointing to lose Anel (for the next two league games) but we do have Fleck and Baldock coming back now too. We have to improve away from home as apart from Boro we have been quite consistent with results and wins at home. Blackburn and Reading are two of the form teams at home too. Away we have struggled for a few months and need to come out and get a big result as if Blackburn win they are the next side who could be snapping at our heels. A solid performance and result there before the others play and we lay down a marker. With Luton, Sunderland, West Brom and Norwich to come, the tough games continue and you sense how we do in the next 6 (Reading the game in hand) will shape where we go. If we can come out of those with a similar cushion to now, you sense we should do enough. Regardless of the away form, weirdly if we take care of the business at the Lane, that alone might be sufficient to get us up. Just feels good for now to get three points in a big game and suddenly everything feels different to a week ago when we all felt we were starting to blow it. Maybe next week it goes the other way and there may/probably be lots of twists and turns yet but today felt a big moment as a defeat today and the pressure may have started to mount on the manager and team in terms of run of poor results. The team were solid, professional and whilst not sure individually many were superb, we had some good performances and did enough to get the victory.



Ratings:



Foderingham 6.5/10 – Had little to do in general play (neither keeper did). He had a few scares at the death as the ball bounced about but other than a few routine saves; not sure he had much to do? He punched one he should have caught first half and at times balls flashed across but not sure he had many shots to save of note? Well protected and much better in front of him than before.



Bogle 6.5/10 – A real mixed bag but he was much better second half than he was first half where I felt he was nearly as bad as Lowe. I felt like Lowe defensively he was not really tight enough and not switched off. Going forward he overplayed or took too long to make decisions. He still was a threat and kept running into space but no end product. He did improve after the break and was starting to force them back, had a few runs and shots and was getting in good areas. He was popping up in good areas and started to be an extra attacker. Defensively did a bit better but still at times not always aware of danger or his man going wide.



Lowe 4/10 – Our weakest player by some distance and felt their main threat came down his side. Not tight enough his man and they got through him a few times and once he just hacked his man down for a booking. They continued to expose him defensively and he did not offer much attacking wise really and his final ball hit the first man or was poor. When he went off, I was sceptical as felt Osborn may struggle with Sarr but we improved hugely and were much tighter and kept the ball better down that side.



Robinson 7.5/10 – Thought he was out stand out defender in that he got stuck in, attacked the ball and made sure they did not have little time or space when they came at him. Early on at times him and Lowe left too much space and he did lose one battle with Miller but after the break and particularly after Lowe departed; he became even stronger. Imposed himself and showed he was determined to ensure we kept a clean sheet.



Ahmedhodzic 6.5/10 – Still a long way off the standards earlier in the season and his tendency to dive in or commit means he gives fouls away and another silly booking which means he now has a two match ban and both are league games are they not – Blackburn and Reading? Did get one good block in the second half but did give away another silly foul trying to steal the ball when he did not need to and giving away silly free kicks. He did do some ok things attacking wise and nearly got in once first half before linking well down the right a few times after the break. He got on the ball more and then had a decent shot that sat up that was not far over although his cross to Bogle was surely a shot? He still does some good things but also is a bit erratic at times too.



Egan 7/10 – Solid enough against some really good attackers. They broke on us a few times and stretched us but overall, we did stop them having too many clear runs or chances. He kept battling and was able to win the headers/challenges he had to. He always struggles with Miller but today he did ok I felt and not sure he got away from us too much? The shape and structure of the side made us look much more solid.



Norwood 6.5/10 – Another game in a trio of matches where not sure he has been at the standard he has been most of the season. His passing was mixed – some good balls and some moments where he played people in and moved it around intelligently. However, some give aways or balls he launched unnecessarily. His set plays were mixed too – some good ones (the goal was clever) and some awful ones. He did get his foot in a few times defensively and oddly some of the best things he did was off the ball.



Fleck 7/10 – Thought he was more like the Fleck of old today. He buzzed around, got on the ball and played some nice triangles and football and he was one of our more threatening players in terms of the areas he got and probing. Not everything came off but he looked lively and was the front foot Fleck, like we have seen in years past. He did tire a bit and clearly was always going to be a struggle to last more than an hour but he did well and hopefully showed he can be a big player in this area, where we lack depth.



Berge 6/10 – Frustrating again today with times where he sort of floated away from the action and shied away from the challenges but he did show some moments of quality. For all the criticism he gets, he still causes problems and his run and shot (yes should have done better) led to the corner for the goal. He was quiet first half but after the break whilst not everything came off, he did get into some good areas and we had most of our opportunities down the side with him, Bogle and others linking well. Defensively he winds me and many up I am sure – he does not press and does not follow runners and does not react to things. He did almost win a header near the end but his timidity is frustrating. Left us again with the feeling that he can do so much more due to his ability!



Ndiaye 6/10 – Quiet again for large spells and nowhere near his best at the moment in terms of not really looking like scoring at all sadly. He shows the usual smattering of quick feet and coming out of nigh on impossible areas to help us retain possession and get up the field but most of his good work came from half way or too deep. He did work hard but not sure things are coming off and at times he played the wrong ball or decision but did force a yellow card and they know that he is still a threat. He still shows some great skills when in those tight areas and kept plugging away. Needs to get the ball higher up the pitch and in the box to allow his skills to be utilised.



McBurnie 8/10 – He was excellent today. Yes, did not have many chances or really involved in the box for key moments but his link play and work rate was really good. He did not lose a header all game, the ball stuck to him and he played others in. Really intelligent and mature performance to lead the line. He was involved in the winning goal and deserved that. Worked his (little) socks off and thought he was the stand out player for us in terms of setting the tone. He played some lovely balls to the likes of Doyle, Ndiaye and then the chance for Berge. Reminded me a bit of Kane (stop laughing) in how he played well from deep even though not having lots of chances.





Subs –



Osborn 7.5/10 – I am not his biggest fan and was concerned when he came on (even though Lowe had played poorly) but he was very good and big praise to him for how he played. Intelligent with the ball and positionally a marked improvement on Lowe. He got his body in good areas to restrict a faster and stronger opponent and just played really smartly. Also used it well when he had it and moved up with it intelligently, linking with Doyle well to get us out of areas. Big credit to him (and Hecky) as the change improved us when it did not seem the most logical one.



Doyle 7/10 – Fleck was good but had tired but Doyle came on and also did well. Kept the ball and was able to help us keep it. Had one decent shot and was busy. He did some good bits defensively and he have us some fresh legs. Felt he and Osborn did well down this side in both aspects of the game – going forward and the defensive bit which are not always their strengths.



Sharp – Put himself about and won a few throws/possession but at this stage we were just trying to see it out. He did come back and make a really important clearances I thought in the scramble?



Jebbison – He ran around, chasing after it but gave away a cheap foul and seemed to not quite get to the pace of the game – albeit hard at that late stage.





Manager: Heckingbottom 7/10 – He has had criticism and deserved it for his selections, the lack of reaction to shape, poor subs and the overall performances/results in the last week. However today we got back to basics, defended fairly well, had a better shape and spine and in the end we did just about enough to win. The Fleck introduction was positive and his changes with Doyle/Osborn coming on helped improve us around the time of the goal. We saw the game out and a big win for us helping arrest the side. Need to ensure we get the away performances back to a better level now and can keep to a consistent level of solid organised play with good shape/defending regardless of chance/goal creation at the other end – that sound negative but that type of commitment to our play will be enough to get us over the line.







Watford – Can see why they flatter to deceive when the players they have should see the routinely creating and scoring lots of goals. They were right in the game throughout and first half had spells where they were better in a relatively even game but not sure they created too much considering the talent of Sarr, Miller, Pedro etc. They got down the sides a few times, particularly with Sarr on Lowe and once Pedro broke through with a great run but we held them at bay ok. At the back they may counter and say they were not stretched too much either but I do think United were much better 2nd half and we had most of the play and chances. The goal was kind of coming if a bit scrappy. They gave the ball away under little pressure a lot and meant we kept coming at them. They had a bit of a go towards the end but it was scrambled stuff rather than controlled pressure or good play and not sure how many clear chances they had outside of the late scramble?



They now face a real fight to get the playoffs as you feel we are way too far ahead now at this stage. They surely will have enough to get better results and points you would think than the likes of Luton, Millwall and Blackburn but at the moment they are very hit and miss and think only won 1 in 5 or 6 now? Bilic has been around a bit but a classic journeyman manager that manages bottom of the Premier League and top end of the Championship. They must be frustrating to watch though as have so much attacking skill and talent with pace to burn but overplay and try and do too much. In midfield areas they are careless with the ball and have defenders who are not tight enough and can get turned. They may feel they should have nicked a point but the 2nd half fadeout and how we stepped up, meant 1-0 to the Blades was about right being fair.



Opponent Man of the Match – Pedro showed some real moments of quality on the ball but we did enough to stop him getting too close to our box with his running with the ball. Sarr started with some good runs but I felt faded. Also Miller as strong as he is, was held up quite well but Robinson and Egan. I actually thought Choudhury was really good – busy and good on the ball and the one player who was consistent in what he did. Would not mind him if we did go up.



Opponent Weak link – The keeper was erroneous throughout with some odd moments such as the stupid punch out when under no pressure and then he also dithered with a few balls through. For a big lad he does not dominate. Not sure he had much to do but did make a few routine/decent saves when we improved. Not sure I would want a keeper who does not trust himself to take goal kicks and the centre backs too them all? Speaking of the two in front – felt they were big lads but McBurnie was better than both and won the battle of imposing himself. Hoedt was booked for a bad foul on Ndiaye and was not great but the lad alongside him takes this aware this week for a few poor fouls, a booking and an own goal!



Referee/Officials – I realise I might be completely on my own with this but thought Keith Stroud was ok – puts tin hat on. He had two completely useless assistants who gave nothing or guessed things (did get the offside right just on the goal) but Stroud despite many screaming at his decisions was ok I thought. He got most of the bookings right and most of the advantages right – one he might have not given after he pulled it back for them near the end when they had played on (a bit like us v Boro). The fussiness of the kick off (taken three times) and a few set plays he needed right in the correct place was a bit frustrating but actually not sure he got many major calls/decisions wrong. As I say I realise I might be on my own. He was consistent I thought with how he officiated with the calls he made. I appreciate he has had some bad games with us before but not sure he was as poor as some made out! Heard someone say in the toilets we won despite him?! Really?



Matchday/Crowd/Coverage – Crowd was good in terms of numbers (29k) and Watford brought more than I thought they would – traditionally never travel that well up here. I also thought the home fans took on board Hecky’s words and were really supportive and the noise was good and encouraging. They did not moan too much on misplaced passes and towards the end helped the team see it out with good support and you sensed they knew the team needed that extra boost. Need to be like this every game between now and the end of the season.

 

[cooperblade]

Thought the tactical changes today made an enormous difference particularly given the opposition. The wing backs were much more conservative and we kept a side with some incredible attacking talent (for the 2nd tier) very quiet.

 

[bakeblade]

United – Feels a big win and three points after the last week when everyone felt miserable after the turnaround and Boro gaining rapidly on us. We were not brilliant and not sure we were that much better/worse than we were for an hour v Boro and 45 minute at Millwall but what we were is much more solid, organised and with a better shape. We did not cough up chances nor did the opposition run through us too much. We were compact and did what we had to. Yes they had a few chances down the left side of our defence as Lowe was not tight enough and another few runs 2nd half but not sure Wes is troubled much at all in the game? Of course it is nervous at the end when they knock balls in and we have the scrambles and of course another day it could bounce another way and go in. For United in an attacking sense, we did some ok things but like Watford were not that clinical in our set up at all. Neither side had any real chances of note first half and it was even really. We had some spells, as they did and there was little in it.



I felt we could definitely up it and to be fair we did and had a good 20-25 mins after the break which culminated with the winning goal. The wing backs (when Osborn came for Lowe and Bogle much better), Anel and Ndiaye improved and we forced the pace. We had much more of the play and they became sloppy. We had some decent bits of interchange and some chances. Their keeper made a few saves, we had a goal disallowed and we forced the pressure. We looked the more likely even if not battering them and the intensity improved. We played higher up the field and to a man the side played higher up too. The goal was kind of coming you felt. After this we did ok and Lowe/Doyle did well down the left tightening this area up. We did the little things and it seemed we would see it out without any real danger. Of course in stoppage time they had a few scrambles as we gave away silly free kicks and balls came in but in the end, I thought we did just about enough to win a scrappy game where little was created. We were not great with the ball when we had it in good areas and too many of our creative players were up and down (Berge, Bogle, Ndiaye, Norwood) but whilst we did not have many opportunities, we had more than them. They ran out of steam and started losing it and we had control of the midfield for the first time for a few games. We had a much better shape in terms of without the ball and were harder to break down. In the end take away the late melees and we looked ok and not troubled too much. The defence kept it solid and did the basics. In the end this better shape and protection for the defence meant we kept a clean sheet against a good attack and get a vital win.



We now have a continued run of hard games. Disappointing to lose Anel (for the next two league games) but we do have Fleck and Baldock coming back now too. We have to improve away from home as apart from Boro we have been quite consistent with results and wins at home. Blackburn and Reading are two of the form teams at home too. Away we have struggled for a few months and need to come out and get a big result as if Blackburn win they are the next side who could be snapping at our heels. A solid performance and result there before the others play and we lay down a marker. With Luton, Sunderland, West Brom and Norwich to come, the tough games continue and you sense how we do in the next 6 (Reading the game in hand) will shape where we go. If we can come out of those with a similar cushion to now, you sense we should do enough. Regardless of the away form, weirdly if we take care of the business at the Lane, that alone might be sufficient to get us up. Just feels good for now to get three points in a big game and suddenly everything feels different to a week ago when we all felt we were starting to blow it. Maybe next week it goes the other way and there may/probably be lots of twists and turns yet but today felt a big moment as a defeat today and the pressure may have started to mount on the manager and team in terms of run of poor results. The team were solid, professional and whilst not sure individually many were superb, we had some good performances and did enough to get the victory.



Ratings:



Foderingham 6.5/10 – Had little to do in general play (neither keeper did). He had a few scares at the death as the ball bounced about but other than a few routine saves; not sure he had much to do? He punched one he should have caught first half and at times balls flashed across but not sure he had many shots to save of note? Well protected and much better in front of him than before.



Bogle 6.5/10 – A real mixed bag but he was much better second half than he was first half where I felt he was nearly as bad as Lowe. I felt like Lowe defensively he was not really tight enough and not switched off. Going forward he overplayed or took too long to make decisions. He still was a threat and kept running into space but no end product. He did improve after the break and was starting to force them back, had a few runs and shots and was getting in good areas. He was popping up in good areas and started to be an extra attacker. Defensively did a bit better but still at times not always aware of danger or his man going wide.



Lowe 4/10 – Our weakest player by some distance and felt their main threat came down his side. Not tight enough his man and they got through him a few times and once he just hacked his man down for a booking. They continued to expose him defensively and he did not offer much attacking wise really and his final ball hit the first man or was poor. When he went off, I was sceptical as felt Osborn may struggle with Sarr but we improved hugely and were much tighter and kept the ball better down that side.



Robinson 7.5/10 – Thought he was out stand out defender in that he got stuck in, attacked the ball and made sure they did not have little time or space when they came at him. Early on at times him and Lowe left too much space and he did lose one battle with Miller but after the break and particularly after Lowe departed; he became even stronger. Imposed himself and showed he was determined to ensure we kept a clean sheet.



Ahmedhodzic 6.5/10 – Still a long way off the standards earlier in the season and his tendency to dive in or commit means he gives fouls away and another silly booking which means he now has a two match ban and both are league games are they not – Blackburn and Reading? Did get one good block in the second half but did give away another silly foul trying to steal the ball when he did not need to and giving away silly free kicks. He did do some ok things attacking wise and nearly got in once first half before linking well down the right a few times after the break. He got on the ball more and then had a decent shot that sat up that was not far over although his cross to Bogle was surely a shot? He still does some good things but also is a bit erratic at times too.



Egan 7/10 – Solid enough against some really good attackers. They broke on us a few times and stretched us but overall, we did stop them having too many clear runs or chances. He kept battling and was able to win the headers/challenges he had to. He always struggles with Miller but today he did ok I felt and not sure he got away from us too much? The shape and structure of the side made us look much more solid.



Norwood 6.5/10 – Another game in a trio of matches where not sure he has been at the standard he has been most of the season. His passing was mixed – some good balls and some moments where he played people in and moved it around intelligently. However, some give aways or balls he launched unnecessarily. His set plays were mixed too – some good ones (the goal was clever) and some awful ones. He did get his foot in a few times defensively and oddly some of the best things he did was off the ball.



Fleck 7/10 – Thought he was more like the Fleck of old today. He buzzed around, got on the ball and played some nice triangles and football and he was one of our more threatening players in terms of the areas he got and probing. Not everything came off but he looked lively and was the front foot Fleck, like we have seen in years past. He did tire a bit and clearly was always going to be a struggle to last more than an hour but he did well and hopefully showed he can be a big player in this area, where we lack depth.



Berge 6/10 – Frustrating again today with times where he sort of floated away from the action and shied away from the challenges but he did show some moments of quality. For all the criticism he gets, he still causes problems and his run and shot (yes should have done better) led to the corner for the goal. He was quiet first half but after the break whilst not everything came off, he did get into some good areas and we had most of our opportunities down the side with him, Bogle and others linking well. Defensively he winds me and many up I am sure – he does not press and does not follow runners and does not react to things. He did almost win a header near the end but his timidity is frustrating. Left us again with the feeling that he can do so much more due to his ability!



Ndiaye 6/10 – Quiet again for large spells and nowhere near his best at the moment in terms of not really looking like scoring at all sadly. He shows the usual smattering of quick feet and coming out of nigh on impossible areas to help us retain possession and get up the field but most of his good work came from half way or too deep. He did work hard but not sure things are coming off and at times he played the wrong ball or decision but did force a yellow card and they know that he is still a threat. He still shows some great skills when in those tight areas and kept plugging away. Needs to get the ball higher up the pitch and in the box to allow his skills to be utilised.



McBurnie 8/10 – He was excellent today. Yes, did not have many chances or really involved in the box for key moments but his link play and work rate was really good. He did not lose a header all game, the ball stuck to him and he played others in. Really intelligent and mature performance to lead the line. He was involved in the winning goal and deserved that. Worked his (little) socks off and thought he was the stand out player for us in terms of setting the tone. He played some lovely balls to the likes of Doyle, Ndiaye and then the chance for Berge. Reminded me a bit of Kane (stop laughing) in how he played well from deep even though not having lots of chances.





Subs –



Osborn 7.5/10 – I am not his biggest fan and was concerned when he came on (even though Lowe had played poorly) but he was very good and big praise to him for how he played. Intelligent with the ball and positionally a marked improvement on Lowe. He got his body in good areas to restrict a faster and stronger opponent and just played really smartly. Also used it well when he had it and moved up with it intelligently, linking with Doyle well to get us out of areas. Big credit to him (and Hecky) as the change improved us when it did not seem the most logical one.



Doyle 7/10 – Fleck was good but had tired but Doyle came on and also did well. Kept the ball and was able to help us keep it. Had one decent shot and was busy. He did some good bits defensively and he have us some fresh legs. Felt he and Osborn did well down this side in both aspects of the game – going forward and the defensive bit which are not always their strengths.



Sharp – Put himself about and won a few throws/possession but at this stage we were just trying to see it out. He did come back and make a really important clearances I thought in the scramble?



Jebbison – He ran around, chasing after it but gave away a cheap foul and seemed to not quite get to the pace of the game – albeit hard at that late stage.





Manager: Heckingbottom 7/10 – He has had criticism and deserved it for his selections, the lack of reaction to shape, poor subs and the overall performances/results in the last week. However today we got back to basics, defended fairly well, had a better shape and spine and in the end we did just about enough to win. The Fleck introduction was positive and his changes with Doyle/Osborn coming on helped improve us around the time of the goal. We saw the game out and a big win for us helping arrest the side. Need to ensure we get the away performances back to a better level now and can keep to a consistent level of solid organised play with good shape/defending regardless of chance/goal creation at the other end – that sound negative but that type of commitment to our play will be enough to get us over the line.







Watford – Can see why they flatter to deceive when the players they have should see the routinely creating and scoring lots of goals. They were right in the game throughout and first half had spells where they were better in a relatively even game but not sure they created too much considering the talent of Sarr, Miller, Pedro etc. They got down the sides a few times, particularly with Sarr on Lowe and once Pedro broke through with a great run but we held them at bay ok. At the back they may counter and say they were not stretched too much either but I do think United were much better 2nd half and we had most of the play and chances. The goal was kind of coming if a bit scrappy. They gave the ball away under little pressure a lot and meant we kept coming at them. They had a bit of a go towards the end but it was scrambled stuff rather than controlled pressure or good play and not sure how many clear chances they had outside of the late scramble?



They now face a real fight to get the playoffs as you feel we are way too far ahead now at this stage. They surely will have enough to get better results and points you would think than the likes of Luton, Millwall and Blackburn but at the moment they are very hit and miss and think only won 1 in 5 or 6 now? Bilic has been around a bit but a classic journeyman manager that manages bottom of the Premier League and top end of the Championship. They must be frustrating to watch though as have so much attacking skill and talent with pace to burn but overplay and try and do too much. In midfield areas they are careless with the ball and have defenders who are not tight enough and can get turned. They may feel they should have nicked a point but the 2nd half fadeout and how we stepped up, meant 1-0 to the Blades was about right being fair.



Opponent Man of the Match – Pedro showed some real moments of quality on the ball but we did enough to stop him getting too close to our box with his running with the ball. Sarr started with some good runs but I felt faded. Also Miller as strong as he is, was held up quite well but Robinson and Egan. I actually thought Choudhury was really good – busy and good on the ball and the one player who was consistent in what he did. Would not mind him if we did go up.



Opponent Weak link – The keeper was erroneous throughout with some odd moments such as the stupid punch out when under no pressure and then he also dithered with a few balls through. For a big lad he does not dominate. Not sure he had much to do but did make a few routine/decent saves when we improved. Not sure I would want a keeper who does not trust himself to take goal kicks and the centre backs too them all? Speaking of the two in front – felt they were big lads but McBurnie was better than both and won the battle of imposing himself. Hoedt was booked for a bad foul on Ndiaye and was not great but the lad alongside him takes this aware this week for a few poor fouls, a booking and an own goal!



Referee/Officials – I realise I might be completely on my own with this but thought Keith Stroud was ok – puts tin hat on. He had two completely useless assistants who gave nothing or guessed things (did get the offside right just on the goal) but Stroud despite many screaming at his decisions was ok I thought. He got most of the bookings right and most of the advantages right – one he might have not given after he pulled it back for them near the end when they had played on (a bit like us v Boro). The fussiness of the kick off (taken three times) and a few set plays he needed right in the correct place was a bit frustrating but actually not sure he got many major calls/decisions wrong. As I say I realise I might be on my own. He was consistent I thought with how he officiated with the calls he made. I appreciate he has had some bad games with us before but not sure he was as poor as some made out! Heard someone say in the toilets we won despite him?! Really?



Matchday/Crowd/Coverage – Crowd was good in terms of numbers (29k) and Watford brought more than I thought they would – traditionally never travel that well up here. I also thought the home fans took on board Hecky’s words and were really supportive and the noise was good and encouraging. They did not moan too much on misplaced passes and towards the end helped the team see it out with good support and you sensed they knew the team needed that extra boost. Need to be like this every game between now and the end of the season.

Who's this Miller, you mention for Watford? Do you mean Davis

 

[bakeblade]

United – Feels a big win and three points after the last week when everyone felt miserable after the turnaround and Boro gaining rapidly on us. We were not brilliant and not sure we were that much better/worse than we were for an hour v Boro and 45 minute at Millwall but what we were is much more solid, organised and with a better shape. We did not cough up chances nor did the opposition run through us too much. We were compact and did what we had to. Yes they had a few chances down the left side of our defence as Lowe was not tight enough and another few runs 2nd half but not sure Wes is troubled much at all in the game? Of course it is nervous at the end when they knock balls in and we have the scrambles and of course another day it could bounce another way and go in. For United in an attacking sense, we did some ok things but like Watford were not that clinical in our set up at all. Neither side had any real chances of note first half and it was even really. We had some spells, as they did and there was little in it.



I felt we could definitely up it and to be fair we did and had a good 20-25 mins after the break which culminated with the winning goal. The wing backs (when Osborn came for Lowe and Bogle much better), Anel and Ndiaye improved and we forced the pace. We had much more of the play and they became sloppy. We had some decent bits of interchange and some chances. Their keeper made a few saves, we had a goal disallowed and we forced the pressure. We looked the more likely even if not battering them and the intensity improved. We played higher up the field and to a man the side played higher up too. The goal was kind of coming you felt. After this we did ok and Lowe/Doyle did well down the left tightening this area up. We did the little things and it seemed we would see it out without any real danger. Of course in stoppage time they had a few scrambles as we gave away silly free kicks and balls came in but in the end, I thought we did just about enough to win a scrappy game where little was created. We were not great with the ball when we had it in good areas and too many of our creative players were up and down (Berge, Bogle, Ndiaye, Norwood) but whilst we did not have many opportunities, we had more than them. They ran out of steam and started losing it and we had control of the midfield for the first time for a few games. We had a much better shape in terms of without the ball and were harder to break down. In the end take away the late melees and we looked ok and not troubled too much. The defence kept it solid and did the basics. In the end this better shape and protection for the defence meant we kept a clean sheet against a good attack and get a vital win.



We now have a continued run of hard games. Disappointing to lose Anel (for the next two league games) but we do have Fleck and Baldock coming back now too. We have to improve away from home as apart from Boro we have been quite consistent with results and wins at home. Blackburn and Reading are two of the form teams at home too. Away we have struggled for a few months and need to come out and get a big result as if Blackburn win they are the next side who could be snapping at our heels. A solid performance and result there before the others play and we lay down a marker. With Luton, Sunderland, West Brom and Norwich to come, the tough games continue and you sense how we do in the next 6 (Reading the game in hand) will shape where we go. If we can come out of those with a similar cushion to now, you sense we should do enough. Regardless of the away form, weirdly if we take care of the business at the Lane, that alone might be sufficient to get us up. Just feels good for now to get three points in a big game and suddenly everything feels different to a week ago when we all felt we were starting to blow it. Maybe next week it goes the other way and there may/probably be lots of twists and turns yet but today felt a big moment as a defeat today and the pressure may have started to mount on the manager and team in terms of run of poor results. The team were solid, professional and whilst not sure individually many were superb, we had some good performances and did enough to get the victory.



Ratings:



Foderingham 6.5/10 – Had little to do in general play (neither keeper did). He had a few scares at the death as the ball bounced about but other than a few routine saves; not sure he had much to do? He punched one he should have caught first half and at times balls flashed across but not sure he had many shots to save of note? Well protected and much better in front of him than before.



Bogle 6.5/10 – A real mixed bag but he was much better second half than he was first half where I felt he was nearly as bad as Lowe. I felt like Lowe defensively he was not really tight enough and not switched off. Going forward he overplayed or took too long to make decisions. He still was a threat and kept running into space but no end product. He did improve after the break and was starting to force them back, had a few runs and shots and was getting in good areas. He was popping up in good areas and started to be an extra attacker. Defensively did a bit better but still at times not always aware of danger or his man going wide.



Lowe 4/10 – Our weakest player by some distance and felt their main threat came down his side. Not tight enough his man and they got through him a few times and once he just hacked his man down for a booking. They continued to expose him defensively and he did not offer much attacking wise really and his final ball hit the first man or was poor. When he went off, I was sceptical as felt Osborn may struggle with Sarr but we improved hugely and were much tighter and kept the ball better down that side.



Robinson 7.5/10 – Thought he was out stand out defender in that he got stuck in, attacked the ball and made sure they did not have little time or space when they came at him. Early on at times him and Lowe left too much space and he did lose one battle with Miller but after the break and particularly after Lowe departed; he became even stronger. Imposed himself and showed he was determined to ensure we kept a clean sheet.



Ahmedhodzic 6.5/10 – Still a long way off the standards earlier in the season and his tendency to dive in or commit means he gives fouls away and another silly booking which means he now has a two match ban and both are league games are they not – Blackburn and Reading? Did get one good block in the second half but did give away another silly foul trying to steal the ball when he did not need to and giving away silly free kicks. He did do some ok things attacking wise and nearly got in once first half before linking well down the right a few times after the break. He got on the ball more and then had a decent shot that sat up that was not far over although his cross to Bogle was surely a shot? He still does some good things but also is a bit erratic at times too.



Egan 7/10 – Solid enough against some really good attackers. They broke on us a few times and stretched us but overall, we did stop them having too many clear runs or chances. He kept battling and was able to win the headers/challenges he had to. He always struggles with Miller but today he did ok I felt and not sure he got away from us too much? The shape and structure of the side made us look much more solid.



Norwood 6.5/10 – Another game in a trio of matches where not sure he has been at the standard he has been most of the season. His passing was mixed – some good balls and some moments where he played people in and moved it around intelligently. However, some give aways or balls he launched unnecessarily. His set plays were mixed too – some good ones (the goal was clever) and some awful ones. He did get his foot in a few times defensively and oddly some of the best things he did was off the ball.



Fleck 7/10 – Thought he was more like the Fleck of old today. He buzzed around, got on the ball and played some nice triangles and football and he was one of our more threatening players in terms of the areas he got and probing. Not everything came off but he looked lively and was the front foot Fleck, like we have seen in years past. He did tire a bit and clearly was always going to be a struggle to last more than an hour but he did well and hopefully showed he can be a big player in this area, where we lack depth.



Berge 6/10 – Frustrating again today with times where he sort of floated away from the action and shied away from the challenges but he did show some moments of quality. For all the criticism he gets, he still causes problems and his run and shot (yes should have done better) led to the corner for the goal. He was quiet first half but after the break whilst not everything came off, he did get into some good areas and we had most of our opportunities down the side with him, Bogle and others linking well. Defensively he winds me and many up I am sure – he does not press and does not follow runners and does not react to things. He did almost win a header near the end but his timidity is frustrating. Left us again with the feeling that he can do so much more due to his ability!



Ndiaye 6/10 – Quiet again for large spells and nowhere near his best at the moment in terms of not really looking like scoring at all sadly. He shows the usual smattering of quick feet and coming out of nigh on impossible areas to help us retain possession and get up the field but most of his good work came from half way or too deep. He did work hard but not sure things are coming off and at times he played the wrong ball or decision but did force a yellow card and they know that he is still a threat. He still shows some great skills when in those tight areas and kept plugging away. Needs to get the ball higher up the pitch and in the box to allow his skills to be utilised.



McBurnie 8/10 – He was excellent today. Yes, did not have many chances or really involved in the box for key moments but his link play and work rate was really good. He did not lose a header all game, the ball stuck to him and he played others in. Really intelligent and mature performance to lead the line. He was involved in the winning goal and deserved that. Worked his (little) socks off and thought he was the stand out player for us in terms of setting the tone. He played some lovely balls to the likes of Doyle, Ndiaye and then the chance for Berge. Reminded me a bit of Kane (stop laughing) in how he played well from deep even though not having lots of chances.





Subs –



Osborn 7.5/10 – I am not his biggest fan and was concerned when he came on (even though Lowe had played poorly) but he was very good and big praise to him for how he played. Intelligent with the ball and positionally a marked improvement on Lowe. He got his body in good areas to restrict a faster and stronger opponent and just played really smartly. Also used it well when he had it and moved up with it intelligently, linking with Doyle well to get us out of areas. Big credit to him (and Hecky) as the change improved us when it did not seem the most logical one.



Doyle 7/10 – Fleck was good but had tired but Doyle came on and also did well. Kept the ball and was able to help us keep it. Had one decent shot and was busy. He did some good bits defensively and he have us some fresh legs. Felt he and Osborn did well down this side in both aspects of the game – going forward and the defensive bit which are not always their strengths.



Sharp – Put himself about and won a few throws/possession but at this stage we were just trying to see it out. He did come back and make a really important clearances I thought in the scramble?



Jebbison – He ran around, chasing after it but gave away a cheap foul and seemed to not quite get to the pace of the game – albeit hard at that late stage.





Manager: Heckingbottom 7/10 – He has had criticism and deserved it for his selections, the lack of reaction to shape, poor subs and the overall performances/results in the last week. However today we got back to basics, defended fairly well, had a better shape and spine and in the end we did just about enough to win. The Fleck introduction was positive and his changes with Doyle/Osborn coming on helped improve us around the time of the goal. We saw the game out and a big win for us helping arrest the side. Need to ensure we get the away performances back to a better level now and can keep to a consistent level of solid organised play with good shape/defending regardless of chance/goal creation at the other end – that sound negative but that type of commitment to our play will be enough to get us over the line.







Watford – Can see why they flatter to deceive when the players they have should see the routinely creating and scoring lots of goals. They were right in the game throughout and first half had spells where they were better in a relatively even game but not sure they created too much considering the talent of Sarr, Miller, Pedro etc. They got down the sides a few times, particularly with Sarr on Lowe and once Pedro broke through with a great run but we held them at bay ok. At the back they may counter and say they were not stretched too much either but I do think United were much better 2nd half and we had most of the play and chances. The goal was kind of coming if a bit scrappy. They gave the ball away under little pressure a lot and meant we kept coming at them. They had a bit of a go towards the end but it was scrambled stuff rather than controlled pressure or good play and not sure how many clear chances they had outside of the late scramble?



They now face a real fight to get the playoffs as you feel we are way too far ahead now at this stage. They surely will have enough to get better results and points you would think than the likes of Luton, Millwall and Blackburn but at the moment they are very hit and miss and think only won 1 in 5 or 6 now? Bilic has been around a bit but a classic journeyman manager that manages bottom of the Premier League and top end of the Championship. They must be frustrating to watch though as have so much attacking skill and talent with pace to burn but overplay and try and do too much. In midfield areas they are careless with the ball and have defenders who are not tight enough and can get turned. They may feel they should have nicked a point but the 2nd half fadeout and how we stepped up, meant 1-0 to the Blades was about right being fair.



Opponent Man of the Match – Pedro showed some real moments of quality on the ball but we did enough to stop him getting too close to our box with his running with the ball. Sarr started with some good runs but I felt faded. Also Miller as strong as he is, was held up quite well but Robinson and Egan. I actually thought Choudhury was really good – busy and good on the ball and the one player who was consistent in what he did. Would not mind him if we did go up.



Opponent Weak link – The keeper was erroneous throughout with some odd moments such as the stupid punch out when under no pressure and then he also dithered with a few balls through. For a big lad he does not dominate. Not sure he had much to do but did make a few routine/decent saves when we improved. Not sure I would want a keeper who does not trust himself to take goal kicks and the centre backs too them all? Speaking of the two in front – felt they were big lads but McBurnie was better than both and won the battle of imposing himself. Hoedt was booked for a bad foul on Ndiaye and was not great but the lad alongside him takes this aware this week for a few poor fouls, a booking and an own goal!



Referee/Officials – I realise I might be completely on my own with this but thought Keith Stroud was ok – puts tin hat on. He had two completely useless assistants who gave nothing or guessed things (did get the offside right just on the goal) but Stroud despite many screaming at his decisions was ok I thought. He got most of the bookings right and most of the advantages right – one he might have not given after he pulled it back for them near the end when they had played on (a bit like us v Boro). The fussiness of the kick off (taken three times) and a few set plays he needed right in the correct place was a bit frustrating but actually not sure he got many major calls/decisions wrong. As I say I realise I might be on my own. He was consistent I thought with how he officiated with the calls he made. I appreciate he has had some bad games with us before but not sure he was as poor as some made out! Heard someone say in the toilets we won despite him?! Really?



Matchday/Crowd/Coverage – Crowd was good in terms of numbers (29k) and Watford brought more than I thought they would – traditionally never travel that well up here. I also thought the home fans took on board Hecky’s words and were really supportive and the noise was good and encouraging. They did not moan too much on misplaced passes and towards the end helped the team see it out with good support and you sensed they knew the team needed that extra boost. Need to be like this every game between now and the end of the season.

That's 3 poor games on the spin now for Lowe. I'm not sure why, but he seems to have lost his concentration and confidence.
He really needs taking out of the side, but his competition is also poor. Osborn OK today, but not the answer and Stevens is even worse.
We need RND back ASAP.

 

[Keen Blade]

That's 3 poor games on the spin now for Lowe. I'm not sure why, but he seems to have lost his concentration and confidence.
He really needs taking out of the side, but his competition is also poor. Osborn OK today, but not the answer and Stevens is even worse.
We need RND back ASAP.

Put Clark at LCB and play JLT at LWB

 

[metalblade]

I though the bookings for Lowe and Anel were harsh Watford got away with worse fouls with no card shown, the one for Lowe ought to have been a yellow for diving yes they were both tugging shirts but contact was minimal nothing at all to make their player go full length.

 

[Deadbat]

Who's this Miller, you mention for Watford?

No idea why I called him Miller? Am I thinking of Ishmael Miller the ex West Brom and City player?

Anyway find and replace Miller for Davis!

 

[Keen Blade]

I made a particular point of watching Berge today when we were out of possession.
He would never get in my team.
He does absolutely nothing to defend , track , close down or tackle players.
He is incredibly lazy once we lose the ball - he hardly bothers to jog back , just seems to think it's not his job.
Even if he is goal side of their player , he doesn't close down their ability to pass , he just doesn't pose any problems to the man in possession.
I don't know if our coaches watch him and if they do , I can't understand why they don't recognise this.
He needs to learn that as a midfielder he must be "involved" in 100% of the game , not drifting around making sure that he's anywhere but where he can regain possession.
He is quite literally a passenger , whilst his teammates put in the hard graft.
There were situations when he was our closest player to their man in possession and he had teammates behind him to back him up , yet still he would not even attempt to close down , let alone tackle.
I lost count of the occasions when he literally allowed Watford's play to develop instead of cutting it out.
Norwood , Fleck , Doyle put him to shame in the amount of effort they contribute.
Berge's occasional contribution when in possession is nowhere near enough to justify him being worthless out of possession.

 

[bakeblade]

No idea why I called him Miller? Am I thinking of Ishmael Miller the ex West Brom and City player?

Anyway find and replace Miller for Davis!

That explains why someone behind me in the SS kept shouting 'get tight on Miller ', ' watch that Miller '.

 

[blademan31]

Thanks as always DB.

Agree with you on ref. He was fine. Surprised on the comments I've seen. Has a very punchable face, mind, that might be it

 

[Frank the tank]

I made a particular point of watching Berge today

Should have just left it there

 

[Rusty view]

The linesmen were worse than stroud.

Chouhdary was everywhere for them.

Thought Robinson had a good game for us.

Happy with the win, and boro defeat.

 

[Roygbiv]

Didn't include it in The View From but the Watford fans are not fans of Keinan Miller Davis. It sounds like they have an obligation to buy him at the end of the season which they aren't happy about

 

[Yewsman]

Thought Stroud was awful. Anel didn’t seem to me to commit a foul but if he did it was certainly not a booking. Thought his playing of advantage was very inconsistent but better than Mariner against Boro! What was he doing when they took a quick free kick and messed up as it ran through to Wes. He then told them to take the kick again. If they had scored would he have disallowed goal. Don’t think so. Thought his decisions of what was a foul and what wasn’t was inconsistent all match and gave IllimAn no protection as they chopped him down several times. And what he he doing drawing a line on pitch for our players to stand in front of. Never seen that before.

 

[Frank the tank]

Didn't include it in The View From but the Watford fans are not fans of Keinan Miller Davis. It sounds like they have an obligation to buy him at the end of the season which they aren't happy about

He's a big strong lad but he's no goal threat whatsoever

 

[Frank the tank]

Thought the officials were dreadful

 

[Roygbiv]

He's a big strong lad but he's no goal threat whatsoever

Heard a rumour pre-season we were after him and I was delighted. In hindsight McBurnie looks to be the better overall striker

 

[Roygbiv]

Thought the officials were dreadful

Strouds OTT point to the centre circle after our goal was one of the highlights of the match though

 

[Frank the tank]

Strouds OTT point to the centre circle after our goal was one of the highlights of the match though

Yeah his signal at the end reminded me of Frank drebin pretending to be an umpire in naked gun

 

[Deadbat]

That explains why someone behind me in the SS kept shouting 'get tight on Miller ', ' watch that Miller '.

Wasn't me! Must have been another Mad Miller Man

 

[Revolution]

He's a big strong lad but he's no goal threat whatsoever

14 games without a goal, they said on SUTV.

He’s never had a good scoring record though he does other things well: he’s a Nigel Clough type centre forward. To me he looked to be carrying a big too much weight actually- not as mobile as I remember from last season.

 

[Addison]

Shows what a full week on the training ground can do. We looked more balanced with Fleck, tactically astute with the subs and prepared to adapt our game to nullify Watfords forwards. PH was almost apologetic for having to do this post match but it worked. Scruffy 1-0 wins now are the order of the day for the rest of the season. Basketball football confined to the dust bin please.

PH's and his coaching staffs strengths are on the training pitch. When we've previously had a wobble we've improved when they have had time to work with the players. You can see now why he was so animated about the delays in getting the pitches ready. Problem is now we don't have a full week again until the end of the season. PH needs to build on the tactical astute game he played yesterday starting with naming a team for Spurs devoid of starters yesterday. Blackburn away takes on added significance with the short turnaround and the fact they are on a run. A must not lose game.

Fleck was the bonus yesterday. If he can stay fit he provides balance, ball winning capability and experience. Something missing in midfield for the last two games.

As for the performance of look at me Mr Stroud he typically ensures he's the centre of attention. You just knew after an early booking for Watford he was looking to even it up. His little man syndrome kicks in and he goes for the tallest player on the pitch in Anel. Not a booking. Two players tussling and Pedro has hold of Anels shirt and belly flops onto the floor to win a free kick. Anel has given away some silly free kicks leading to bookings this season but yesterday wasn't one of them. I feel his size doesn't help him as refs see him as always the perpetrator when he's up against a smaller forward because of this.

The less said about the comedy free kick shall I play advantage oh yes I will oh no I won't when SUFC are on the attack in the second half the better. I was half expecting B. Rix to come on as sub without his shorts on (one for the older readers ). Stroud would do well in pantomime as he makes me laugh along with the ugly sisters Doughty and Donoghue. None of them are very good at what they currently do yet they have managed to fire up the crowd so maybe useless incompetent officials is what we really need.

 

[Bergen Blade]

As for the performance of look at me Mr Stroud he typically ensures he's the centre of attention. You just knew after an early booking for Watford he was looking to even it up. His little man syndrome kicks in and he goes for the tallest player on the pitch in Anel. Not a booking. Two players tussling and Pedro has hold of Anels shirt and belly flops onto the floor to win a free kick. Anel has given away some silly free kicks leading to bookings this season but yesterday wasn't one of them. I feel his size doesn't help him as refs see him as always the perpetrator when he's up against a smaller forward because of this.

AA likes a shirt pull and will keep getting bookings if he continues with them.

 

[Grappler]

Shows what a full week on the training ground can do. We looked more balanced with Fleck, tactically astute with the subs and prepared to adapt our game to nullify Watfords forwards. PH was almost apologetic for having to do this post match but it worked. Scruffy 1-0 wins now are the order of the day for the rest of the season. Basketball football confined to the dust bin please.

PH's and his coaching staffs strengths are on the training pitch. When we've previously had a wobble we've improved when they have had time to work with the players. You can see now why he was so animated about the delays in getting the pitches ready. Problem is now we don't have a full week again until the end of the season. PH needs to build on the tactical astute game he played yesterday starting with naming a team for Spurs devoid of starters yesterday. Blackburn away takes on added significance with the short turnaround and the fact they are on a run. A must not lose game.

Fleck was the bonus yesterday. If he can stay fit he provides balance, ball winning capability and experience. Something missing in midfield for the last two games.

As for the performance of look at me Mr Stroud he typically ensures he's the centre of attention. You just knew after an early booking for Watford he was looking to even it up. His little man syndrome kicks in and he goes for the tallest player on the pitch in Anel. Not a booking. Two players tussling and Pedro has hold of Anels shirt and belly flops onto the floor to win a free kick. Anel has given away some silly free kicks leading to bookings this season but yesterday wasn't one of them. I feel his size doesn't help him as refs see him as always the perpetrator when he's up against a smaller forward because of this.

The less said about the comedy free kick shall I play advantage oh yes I will oh no I won't when SUFC are on the attack in the second half the better. I was half expecting B. Rix to come on as sub without his shorts on (one for the older readers ). Stroud would do well in pantomime as he makes me laugh along with the ugly sisters Doughty and Donoghue. None of them are very good at what they currently do yet they have managed to fire up the crowd so maybe useless incompetent officials is what we really need.

Have a like for Brian Rix.......

 

[Addison]

View attachment 154731

AA likes a shirt pull and will keep getting bookings if he continues with them.

Agree Bergen but the angle of the picture doesn't show that Pedro also has hold of AA's shirt. I was sat on Kop and clearly saw it. Both players were guilty of shirt holding but Stroud was desperate to penalise our player. If Stroud booked AA for shirt pulling then he missed about half a dozen penalties for us from corners for the same offence.

 

[originaltrueblade]

Agree with most of that apart from the referee

 

[Bergen Blade]

Agree Bergen but the angle of the picture doesn't show that Pedro also has hold of AA's shirt. I was sat on Kop and clearly saw it. Both players were guilty of shirt holding but Stroud was desperate to penalise our player. If Stroud booked AA for shirt pulling then he missed about half a dozen penalties for us from corners for the same offence.

I'll take your word for it. The ref's angle was similar to the camera.

 

[Deadbat]

I'll take your word for it. The ref's angle was similar to the camera.

The problem is the Watford man has the ball so it will always go against Anel even if both are shirt pulling. I thought it was a fair booking- he could have got another second half and is quite rash at the moment. He could even end up getting a further 3 match ban ifhe gets 5 more yellows to go to 15 which we cannot really afford- him missing maybe 5 out of the last 13 games. He seems to be getting booked every game at the moment almost.

I thought all the bookings were right - he booked the Watford man for pulling McBurnie's shirt in a similiar fashion where both were grappling but we had the ball goalside. Lowe's was softer but still cynical and the one on Ndiaye was the worst of the lot. The lad booked for tripping Bogle knew what he was doing too and accepted it shaking the Blades players hand as he got booked.

I am not sure Stroud was that bad and a few times he waved away some theatrics from them.

I am aware I might be one of a few saying this compared to the majority.

The only advantage he maybe got wrong was he let them go on for a while near the end and then brought back. Other than fussy kick off, not sure how many bad decisions he got wrong?

 

[Nicolaus_Copernicus]

I think that there's a player in Keinan Davis if used the right way. I was impressed when he played for Forest against us last season. He's a focal point in attack, strong, relatively mobile and a handful. I think Watford were trying to involve him in the wrong areas of the pitch, perhaps a little too deep. He's just turned 25, and if he were available for something sensible, I'd have him at BDTBL next season.

As has been mentioned elsewhere, Choudhury should be on our list of purchases for next season. He is exactly the type of player that we currently need & will need. Anything between £10m to £15m and he is a bargain.

​