Quote Originally Posted by jackal2 View Post
We don't have to change the gameplan, at least not that much. If you're playing with three across the back (five at times) than there's no shortage of genuine outfield footballers to take control of the ball and pass it. A high number of the passes back to Slocombe are actually not necessary and it can become a bad habit to go back to the keeper rather than play the more positive pass.

I think we were spoiled last season by having Anthony Patterson, who even as a youngster was clearly playing below his level for his goalkeeping ability and was very comfortable with the ball at his feet. Most goalkeepers at this level are not that accomplished. You have to shape your tactics to play to their strengths and hide their weaknesses, not unnecessarily expose them.
Our strength is our passing. When the ball does go long it’s normally in the direction of the wing backs who are high up the pitch, who rarely win the ball aerially.
I have no problem with how we play. It’s easier at home as our pitch will never be an issue that impacts our passing. SS is more than capable of playing the way he is being asked technically, the issue is his composure. If he can’t sort that out then he needs to be replaced. What I would say is, he has the ball more than most and any mistake is punished, where others get away with it.