⚽ Match Thread vs. Barrow FC 22.10.24 [EFL L2]

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Originally Posted by BigFatPie

People weren’t really ‘hailing’ Gillingham at all, everyone could see they were very lucky to win at ours, as they were apparently to win a few before that. I thought Vale were much better, and held us off fairly comfortably in the end. They’ve also lost who they would call the best player in the league, George Byers.

We’ve very much been mid table since the Bromley game, and unless something changes, that’s where I think we’ll end up again.

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Jodi Jones return should classify as a change. He’s our George Byers.

This was quite interesting. Their "stonewall" penalty shout looked to be nothing of the sort. Ref couldn't not give our pen. Didn't see our other penalty shout.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p_LfaeDa0Tk

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Originally Posted by jackal2

The owners won't be blind to the quality of performance. They stated last season that their data suggested our early season results flattered the performances, and of course our results did drop off eventually...

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It would be interesting to see how they're mapping the trends so far this season (and how they weigh the different performance metrics), and what conclusions they're coming to.

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Originally Posted by MAD_MAGPIE

I'll be happy if we are in the top three by the new year regardless of performances because I believe we will be better in the second half of the season mainly because the new players would have had six months to settle in get to know the club and each other but also players like JJ returning from injury. We may sign a couple in January as well.

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me too. And no one else has referred to that, but half (?) of this squad had never met each other 3 months ago. As much as they HAVE to hit the ground running, the gelling process won't have finished yet while they deepen their understanding of each other's ability and style, and SM's/Notts' approach.

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Originally Posted by Mud Pie

me too. And no one else has referred to that, but half (?) of this squad had never met each other 3 months ago. As much as they HAVE to hit the ground running, the gelling process won't have finished yet while they deepen their understanding of each other's ability and style, and SM's/Notts' approach.

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...and adjusting for injuries.

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Originally Posted by Mud Pie

...and adjusting for injuries.

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and most of the other clubs around are sailing the same choppy waters. And we're all playing equally piratic teams! It's fun to make predictions from the stars before xmas, but so much of the eventual position depends on the mid - finish doesn't it?

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Originally Posted by Med Pie

Semantics, how many times have we heard about the Notts 'brand', it's the same thing and why do you think we've attracted crowds averaging 11K at the Lane and not sub 5K like in the past, it's because of the product, brand, call it what you want. I too have been through the mill with this team since 1967 though living abroad for much of the last twenty years. When I'm in the UK, I always attend and was a 'The Nest' last night.

I still love Branston pickle.

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you say semantics because you're not thinking perspective, but I respect your service, sir!

I can still taste and love the tangy sauce, but I kept getting too many rooty bits and intriguing vegetables.

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Originally Posted by Mud Pie

and most of the other clubs around are sailing the same choppy waters. And we're all playing equally piratic teams! It's fun to make predictions from the stars before xmas, but so much of the eventual position depends on the mid - finish doesn't it?

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Piratic? As in “You’re sh*t - aaaaaargh”?

You’re right about there being so many erratic teams though. Every week there are a few teams losing games you’d expect them to win. Consistency is going to be key for whoever finishes in the top 3 in such an even division.

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Originally Posted by BigFatPie

People weren’t really ‘hailing’ Gillingham at all, everyone could see they were very lucky to win at ours, as they were apparently to win a few before that. I thought Vale were much better, and held us off fairly comfortably in the end. They’ve also lost who they would call the best player in the league, George Byers.

We’ve very much been mid table since the Bromley game, and unless something changes, that’s where I think we’ll end up again.

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A lot were singing Gills praises before we played them, Port Vale have Gillingham, Crewe, Walsall and Wimbledon all coming up - which suggests their start has been kind. Lets see if you still think they are 1970's Brazil when theyve played everyone once.

They can call George Byers, a man who's played 7 games in this league the 'best' all they want - facts are Jodi is literally the best player in the league as voted for by his peers, completely different levels. I'd also argue Vale's expensively assembled squad will obviously deal with the loss of a big player better.

As for our form since the Bromley game - look at the team sheet compared to now 'unless something changes' , well it will , we will have some essential players back. To be still in the top 3 considering is good work from Stu and the team imo. Especially considering the run of fixtures and travelling.

Let's be honest - we've not been spectacular to watch for a few weeks, however you also can't argue with sitting in the top 3. Whether we're going to stay there is open to question, but a place in the automatics after a quarter of the season is undoubtedly pleasing.

I won't repeat my lingering doubts for fear of reprisals from our resident apologists, but I hope we can continue to build on this really rather decent start as our injured players return.