With one pre season friendly to go, I’m posting my thoughts on where I think we are:
1. The Pitch. Of course, I’ve not been to the Attis this pre season so I’m relying on photos and what’s been said in interviews by staff and if Half of that is true, then we have a pitch we can play football on. Maybe the most important signing of the summer was the Groundsperson!
2. The Squad. Of the 4 games I’ve seen, this is a stronger squad than last year. There is an attacking intent in how we play, which at home on that pitch should see us win and win handsomely. A lot of teams will come and try to “park the bus” and we have no Cal Roberts to bring a piece of individual brilliance to break them down. Who steps up to the plate to do that we will see.
3. We are a taller squad. That should help at set pieces.
4. We have recruited some experience, hopefully that will help us see out games.
The down side:
1. AB continues to flirt with 5 at the back. I know we won with it at Borehamwood last year, but I think it’s a negative, largely because our “wing backs” aren’t good enough to make it work.
2. Concentration levels still drift off. The vulnerability to the opposition quick break down the flanks persist, as is switching off at defensive set pieces. 5 at the back doesn’t remedy this issue.
If AB can banish the idea of playing wingbacks from his head, and improve concentration levels, then we will have a great season. If not, well mid table mediocracy calls!
Seen 3 of the pre season games and pretty much agree with your thoughts PA.
I’m encouraged that 5 at the back was conspicuous by it’s absence last night. Of course Butler might throw it back in the mix on Friday.
He’s still trying to work out how to get 5 RBs into the team.
1 at RB, 1 as a 3rd CB and 1 as a DMF is as close as I can get. I suppose 1 on the bench is an option?
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