For me it was 4 3 1 2 .......... call it a diamond if you must ....... but it was a flat diamond that did not leave a hole in the centre of the pitch for the opposition to play in, as was too often the case under AT. And we played higher up the pitch, with tempo, and defending from the front. Any system succeeds or fails on the the players effort and commitment together with the understanding on the touchline
What we learnt
- that the players are in the squad to excite and win games
- that the squad was/is fit ......... the failure to play 90 minutes out so often was clearly down to other factors ... mental toughness well not on last nights display ............ lack of belief - perhaps after so many defeats losing becomes a habit .... or was it some other reason?
- That pace and tempo are important ..... you will threaten other teams by making them work harder and thereby increasing pressure and mistakes. Pace and tempo are essential
- That getting the ball forward quickly does not mean hoofball .... we can pass the ball forward quickly especially if there is good movement up front.
- that we have fullbacks that can get forward ...... they dont have to stop with a nose bleed if they get to half way and pass it back
- that sometimes the ball has to be cleared with distance and not try to play it out
- that there is a right time for everything it is all about the players making the right decisions at the right time and having the confidence to do it
- we have players that can use their left foot
of the players
- carl baker can produce against decent (any) sides if he is given the space and confidence - put in a Taarabt type performance but with self control and defensive work too
- our full backs can get forward at pace and can cross a ball, I thought all three used did well
- cody and elliott might be small but if their movement is good that compensates and they will be a threat
- Brown is certainly a centre back not a full back
- The edge is not a typical european player he is willing to go through walls for the team and does it with no little skill
- Jennings is the best option we have had in ages to play the holding role
- Barton will be a class player who will pull the strings
- Kilbane still has the energy to play full games and contribute in many ways (including well taken goals)
- Murphy is more assured behind a committed energetic side that does not sit back on the penalty area
Not making this into AT bash but there was a positive attitude about the place last night with a manager clear in what he was doing and expected, Shaw seemed to communicate well before during and after the match, he kept it simple with enthusiasm, was attuned to making changes and why, was in control of the team and himself..... all things i feel were a clear contrast to AT
I think there was a lot learnt last night ........... and it just illustrated how mediocre and confused we had become ......... it is only one game but it was such a difference and restored some pride in the team we love