Quote Originally Posted by slack_pie View Post
I somewhat disagree. Yes, the most important thing is to get physically up to speed for the new season. But performances aren't irrelevant, especially in the bigger friendlies at home.

Last season we played very well against Leicester and Forest, and those performances and results were an indication of what was to come throughout the season. If we name a strong squad and they are all over the place, it's not exactly a good sign.
We played Leicester and Forest in name. Neither were anywhere near full strength, in fact I’d argue both those sides had players getting experience in men’s football. I don’t read anything in to friendlies. We have had pre seasons where we dominated and had a cack season, and the opposite. I just hope we don’t pick up any injuries to key players, which I am sure the players are told, hence not being 100% committed.
The other thing about the Stoke game last week was the starting 11 won’t be the starting 11 v Sutton. I still think Slocombe is first choice for starters. Bostock defo starts. JJ is about 90% to start. I still don’t know how LW gets the best from Didzy. All we become clearer as we move through the coming weeks.
In respect of performance being irrelevant, I agree, however, it’s more about individual performance at this stage rather than the collective. As I stated in a previous post, the players won’t be getting loads of information about the opposition. There won’t be loads of tactical work on the opposition. The Stoke game will highlight to LW our weakness when we lose the ball. How we transition from attack to defence. I also hope it highlights the need for a plan B in terms of shape.
In summary PSF aren’t irrelevant. However, they are also no barometer for how the season ahead will look.