Although last night's game was disappointing, our position in the table leaves us still sitting above two first season 'parachute money' clubs and one of last season's playoff final contenders. Last night was a small setback, and both Hecky and the players are still learning!
I think we're playing alright, but we're in desperate need of fresh ideas. Its very 1 dimensional at the minute which is okay because it's kind of working, particularly away from home. At home I think the focus is on us more to retain possession and build from the back, and that's where I think we're coming a little unstuck. Now might be the time for Stevie Mallan.
I am not having a go here but I am interested to know why you think Stevie Mallan would make a difference , have you watched him much & if so, what will he bring to the table ?
I haven't. I've not even seen him play in friendlies. I think he's in the same sort of mould as George Moncur who just doesn't seem to be cutting it on a regular basis in my opinion. Our main threat appears to be Harvey Barnes, who lest we forget, is a 19 year old, and hasn't benefitted from an international break like the rest of the squad has. I think his exclusion last night was an indicator that he's probably struggling to do Saturday Tuesday. Mallan seems to be scoring for fun at present in the u23s, which I don't think is too much of a surprise as I feel u23s level isn't comparable to the level he played at in Scotland. He's a fresh player, who could give us fresh ideas. I think down the line, we're in need of a striker and maybe another wide player. But for the time being, we've to work with what we've got, and Mallan is part of that.
We seem to have a problem to create against sides who come to spoil and park the bus. Made worse since the departure of Saint Conor so we are less effective at set pieces. Against sides that come to play, or away from home where most sides try and attack we look much better. Apart from Barnes and Hammill we dont seem to have anyone who can create something out of nothing. Not sure there is a quick fix. I see Mallan is mentioned elsewhere in this thread - I havent seen him but I would have thought if Hecky thought he was up to championship standard he would be at least getting on the bench
You've hit nail on the head with set pieces. Absolutely woeful. Either drifted in or over hit. I'm not sure if any stats men are on here but what percentage of our goals up to January were set pieces and what percentage since I wonder. Seriously needs working on. Would give us a threat even in games where we can't break a team down.
A set piece was the only way either team were going to score yesterday. Seemed it needed not only a set piece but a set piece followed by a panicked clearance and a lucky charge down. Them's the breaks.
I know the last goal we scored at home was a set piece , Friers against Birmingham , but my memory doesn"t stretch far these days
