Quote Originally Posted by Robertomac View Post
Forest were expected to struggle. They haven't got the players to play in the same way as City, so instead have looked at an alternative which exploits the attributes of their squad. It's been very effective. Up until 12-18 months ago, I'd say there was no doubt that Man City were the team to replicate. Now, I'm not so sure. 70% possession and poor form Vs 30% possession and consistently good results. Our possession game has been ineffective and boring to watch as well as nullifying our most potent attacking threats.

Regards the chances stat, I take that with a pinch of salt purely because I've watched every Notts game this season and the data can make a very dull and toothless performance look more palatable. Of the chances recorded, how many were actually clear goal scoring opportunities?

I'd argue our style is very much the problem. We lack tempo and bravery on the ball. We always slow everything down, allowing the opposition to re-group and get back in position. We have some genuine pace and attack minded players, but our style feels like we're driving a Ferrari with the handbrake on.
Forest have played a low block and countered teams. It?s worked because they?ve played to their strengths of blistering pace, having the ability to move the ball quick and have had an inform striker who has converted the few chances he?s had. It?s absolutely worked for them and they?ve exceeded everyone?s expectations. They?ve recently had injuries to CHO and Chris Wood and have won 1 in the last 7.
In summary, whatever the system, it only works with the best players on the pitch.
Our system isn?t the problem, we either sold our best players or they were injured.
And the irony is a lot of fans don?t seem to have noticed that we did change our style of play when Crowley left. We went far more direct and tried to feed off the front line.
Look at the blocks of form we had this season, it?s no coincidence that it was with 2 of Crowley, Jones and Didzy playing and fit. Nobody complained about the system when we destroyed Grimsby 4-1.
We went into the season with a 28 goal striker, the league 2 player of the season, the pace of Nemane and the creative flair of Dan Crowley.
We?ve finished the season with Junior Morias being our final hope.
Forget systems, forget the manager, we didn?t have enough quality on the pitch!