I think the manager and his sidekick deserve great credit for sticking with the younger lads while the senior pros have been out injured. The general level of performance of each and every one of them has been higher over the past 10 matches than the first 10, which has helped disguise Bowery’s slight decline of late; however, were it not for him we wouldn’t be where we are.
I’ve never been Porter’s biggest fan but I have to say that the slight change of formation to accommodate him has worked a treat, and may have something to do with Bowery’s slight downturn. However, like all 11 selected, he never stops giving of his best. I’m not too concerned when the younger players have off days as they’re still learning their trade, having said that those off days are fewer these days!
Not sure I agree about the keeper. I don’t think he’s declined, he just hasn’t fulfilled the promise he showed as an 18 year old by getting any better. Still a decent L2 keeper for me, although he is likely to come under greater pressure from Jaaskalinen in a year or twos time than he has from Trigger. For me the difference has been Nolan more than Green who, after all, has missed as many of the wins as played in them. He isn’t spectacular and doesn’t have great pace, but he reads the game and is solid with very few mistakes. He and George look a good pairing as Ray has more pace and height and can pass OK. He still likes a trick (lovely backheeled pass on Saturday) and nobody is more committed to winning for the Alex - an unlikely leader but I think he’s grown into a good one.
As for the rest of the season. Well, we can ignore the relegation battle and aim for the Top 7. No doubt on our day we are good enough and the consistency is coming. To be honest I’m not that worried if we don’t quite make it, but I can say that, thus far, it’s been an enjoyable season with good performances and it’s great to see some of our lads fulfilling their potential. Long may it continue and COYRs.