Taking into account the quality of the opposition, and acknowledging that we had a two or three moments of good fortune (it would've been a different game if they'd scored first or if the ref had taken a dimmer view of Sam Beale's challenge), I thought that was the best performance I've seen since Chris has been at the club. Really, really excellent.
We've taken a huge step forward since last season, when we were often superb with the ball and yet somewhat slapdash without it, particularly in the crucial moments after we lost possession. We appear to have added extra urgency, concentration and discipline throughout the side, with the result that we're less easily caught cold and much more likely to win it back and catch our opponents out instead. It's very noticeable that the reaction to losing the ball in dangerous areas has, this season, been more organised and determined, with bodies flying in to block shots and recover the situation; we seemed to take it as an occupational hazard a little too readily before.
So, yeah, absolutely terrific in every area. Ben Pope is exactly the striker I thought we'd never be able to find: good in the air, good on the deck, strong, combative, aware, capable of holding the ball up, confident in front of goal. Lanre Azeez and Daniel Ajaikaye scared the hell out of them in the wider positions, the former with a couple of splendid assists for superb, sweeping goals. Jack Dixon and Adam Lovatt were as dominant as you'd hope, but Ryan Worrall suddenly looked a real force last night too. Two great bellowing clattering monsters in central defence; mobile, capable full-backs who are able to concentrate on winning their defensive battles.
In summary: more variety going forwards, less vulnerable when it breaks down. There's a lot that can go wrong, obviously. It's not a squad with very much depth and it'll be a long season. But, for now, fantastic.
Great team performance against a useful Whitehawk side. Good to see the amount of effort and application in the side. A lot of pace as well-hope we can keep it going over the course of the season.
Mr_ig Superb analysis,,,, nothing more to add really,,,, just one more thing,,, its been my first chance to see young Tom Chalmers,,, he came on as sub,,, got booked, for a little challenge shortly after coming on, but less than 2 minutes after being booked made a very well timed tackle, more experienced players would have bottled that after picking up a booking so early on,,, yes very impressive 👍. He looked useful too,
