With the first ten games it might be a time to take stock of how we have got on with a new manager, a reduced budget, and a considerable change in players. 2 wins 4 draws and 4 defeats is probably par for the course?
At the start of the season Julian might have envisaged a defence of Revan , Wiltshire, Cheadle and Campbell with French and Taylor as cover. It is also worth noting that the number 5 shirt was not allocated, perhaps he hope for another addition? Cheadle being out prompted the loan of Jack Taylor. Think most of us still feel we are light in this area.
Not quite sure why Gray was relieved of the captaincy and his previously automatic selection is now not so guaranteed. It might be that Julian feels he gets a better balance with other players. Certainly the new midfield is an upgrade on last season. Atkinson has give defensive cover that was lacking previously with the likes of Dunne, Williams is looking an upgrade on Deadfield and can, if pressed, play at left back. Keeya and Sorondo ( now also captain) complete midfield which has been further strengthened by Vilhede signing. Hunt still injured is looking way down the list of potential starters.
Babajedi has looked promising and although not a traditional target man his pace and mobility have drawn favourable comments from opponents. Roberts we all know was good and fulfilled the role we knew. Wall is generally on the bench, useful to bring on but perhaps his best days are behind him?
Obviously another striker would be on most of our shopping lists, but not easy to find and at the right price.
Might be interesting what other folk think?
First 10 games.
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Lord Elpus
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Despite not scoring many and our newfound ability to give away late goals, I think the actual football being played is streets ahead of last season and well done to Jules for that.
The Football Web Pages 'Predicted final table': https://www.footballwebpages.co.uk/nati ... /predicted suggests we will stay up on goal difference with 43 points. I'd settle for that...
Mind you I think their algorithm might be suspect given it predicts that Worthing will draw all 23 of their home games
Mind you I think their algorithm might be suspect given it predicts that Worthing will draw all 23 of their home games
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Shepperton Supporter
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I think that is because they have only played one home game and that was a draw. Agree these predictions are very suspect especially at this stage of the season.Big Rich wrote: ↑Thu Sep 26, 2024 12:10 pm The Football Web Pages 'Predicted final table': https://www.footballwebpages.co.uk/nati ... /predicted suggests we will stay up on goal difference with 43 points. I'd settle for that...
Mind you I think their algorithm might be suspect given it predicts that Worthing will draw all 23 of their home games
I would be happy with a solid mid table finish but to do that we will need to score more goals. The style of play is easily the best I have seen for some time but the players are mostly young and will be prone to errors from time to time, and at this level you get punished by the better teams. Time will tell if the likes of Babajide and Brissett can contribute the way they have at the steps below. If they could get to double figures that would be an achievement.What we do need is the likes of Gray, Roberts, Williams, Sorondo and Vilhete to add more goals. It makes a lot of difference tactically to a side if you can get a couple of goals lead. Most games we are within a goal of win, draw or defeat and as we have seen in the last three we are hanging on a bit at the end trying to preserve what we have rather than being more on the front foot.I would also add that the new players are all much more technically gifted than many we had on the books last season. They look comfortable on the ball and can keep possession under pressure. There is a discernible pattern of play whereas last year it was bit hit and hope at times.
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Shepperton Supporter
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Given his injury record over the last two seasons plus his age it might be that it has been decided to mutually cancel his contract. If so, probably the best decision, he might play at a lower level, but with a young family it might give him more time with them.
Wish him well didn’t see much of him as a player.
Might open the door for a replacement?
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Shepperton Supporter
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I saw that Alan is giving a pre March interview at 1pm. Not sure if that is today or tomorrow. From memory this is not usual, so it might be to convey some squad news?
Will know soon enough.
Will know soon enough.
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Shepperton Supporter
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Yes it was broadcast does not say much more than he has said previously. Seems happy with progress but realises it is a learning curve. Hopefully some points soon with home games to come?
Good work in the medical department to get players available.
Good work in the medical department to get players available.