Quote Originally Posted by Bushwacka View Post
I don't think we're a poorer side than Ardley's but we're poorer than the one that finished the season, for 2 simple reasons, Ellis and Miller; we haven't replaced them.

I agree in part with those saying we need a ball winner in midfield, but we haven't been particularly overrun in the middle much, we just haven't converted possession into chances and today we didn't defend balls into the box.

I think Burchnall has the good ideas but, unfortunately, so far, it doesn't look like the analysis/budget has given him the right players to put it into action.
Great point re Miller and Ellis. We’re also missing the Ruben who was on fire at the end of last season and Michael Doyle. I can’t imagine today’s capitulation happening with Doyle on the pitch. I’m definitely not saying let’s bring him back, but we’ve not replaced him.

I was concerned last season when the kid from Crewe was seen as the short-term solution to Doyle’s absence, and that’s been repeated by the “nice” footballers we’ve brought in over the summer. Kyle Wootton embodied that niceness in his post-match interview - lovely guy, but give me a scowling Iain McCulloch-type any day.

It can’t be a surprise to the owners that this is a tough, physical league and that the teams that thrive are tough, physical and quick - and can also play football. We seem to keep on prioritising the latter quality over all others.

With no game next weekend, it’s ***** that we pick up three points on Tuesday against the team two places above us. Should tell us a lot about this side and the manager.