Viking Supporters Co-operative

Viking Chat => Viking Chat => Topic started by: selby on March 05, 2025, 01:26:34 pm

Title: Let's talk about the Swindon Town game
Post by: selby on March 05, 2025, 01:26:34 pm
  Games coming thick and fast, and a severe case of us having to show the same form at home we did against Newport as getting a win looks very important after losing last nights game at Bromley.
  The only thing I have seen of that game are the highlights on another thread, but looking at stats and reports it seems we should have got something from the game as we were the dominant side for much of the game and a little unlucky and poor finishing cost us the points, it happens and we need to go again.
  The need in this game v Swindon is to start another little run of winning results, back up the win at home to Newport and confirm better home form, and regain the confidence of the supporters once again that at the moment seems in the clouds if we win and in their boots if things don't go our way.
  So the crowd if turning out and getting behind them like they did v Newport can lift the atmosphere, we can play well on the front foot, and we are a young side fast improving, the odd set back will happen to all the competing sides including Bradford before the end of the season, and we can put pressure on winning games.
  So our side will be dependant on any injuries, we are playing a team that in Smith have a top player in this division, are in the top couple of division 2's form league having only lost one game winning four and drawing one of their last six league games, and will be a severe test of how we can recover from last nights set back.
  Can we put another run of good results together starting with this game v Swindon? will injuries to defensive players mean changes at the back? can we be more prolific in front of goal? will such as Faulkner and Flint come into the picture and be considered for recall from their loans? Lot's to discuss please have your say about what is an important game, and one we need to get back on track with a good result in our favour, What do you think?
  A quick return to winning ways is required and we are capable of doing so if we play well, lets hope we do and have a good game for us to watch and get the atmosphere going again during the game.
 
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Swindon Town game
Post by: Wiltshire Exile on March 05, 2025, 02:20:35 pm
 
  Games coming thick and fast, and a severe case of us having to show the same form at home we did against Newport as getting a win looks very important after losing last nights game at Bromley.
  The only thing I have seen of that game are the highlights on another thread, but looking at stats and reports it seems we should have got something from the game as we were the dominant side for much of the game and a little unlucky and poor finishing cost us the points, it happens and we need to go again.
  The need in this game v Swindon is to start another little run of winning results, back up the win at home to Newport and confirm better home form, and regain the confidence of the supporters once again that at the moment seems in the clouds if we win and in their boots if things don't go our way.
  So the crowd if turning out and getting behind them like they did v Newport can lift the atmosphere, we can play well on the front foot, and we are a young side fast improving, the odd set back will happen to all the competing sides including Bradford before the end of the season, and we can put pressure on winning games.
  So our side will be dependant on any injuries, we are playing a team that in Smith have a top player in this division, are in the top couple of division 2's form league having only lost one game winning four and drawing one of their last six league games, and will be a severe test of how we can recover from last nights set back.
  Can we put another run of good results together starting with this game v Swindon? will injuries to defensive players mean changes at the back? can we be more prolific in front of goal? will such as Faulkner and Flint come into the picture and be considered for recall from their loans? Lot's to discuss please have your say about what is an important game, and one we need to get back on track with a good result in our favour, What do you think?
 
  From reports it looks like we might need at least one change in central defence  and again hopefully nobody else picked any knocks up that keep them out of the game.
  For Swindon Smith is a

Swindon Smith is a…what exactly?!  :facepalm:
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Swindon Town game
Post by: selby on March 05, 2025, 04:54:36 pm
  Sorry Wilts, big fingers.
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Swindon Town game
Post by: drfchound on March 05, 2025, 07:44:09 pm
  Sorry Wilts, big fingers.

Just click on the modify button on the OP Brian and you can add the rest of what you were going to post.
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Swindon Town game
Post by: selby on March 05, 2025, 08:50:23 pm
  A long time ago that Hound, I haven't a clue.
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Swindon Town game
Post by: drfchound on March 05, 2025, 09:11:54 pm
  A long time ago that Hound, I haven't a clue.

 :lol: :lol:
Stay well mate.
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Swindon Town game
Post by: selby on March 05, 2025, 09:19:24 pm
  When they report back tomorrow and the state of the injuries are known could be a big day for the management.
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Swindon Town game
Post by: roversdude on March 06, 2025, 05:31:44 am
Senior should be available for this
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Swindon Town game
Post by: Chris Black come back on March 06, 2025, 06:19:10 am
Wood was back with the squad a few games ago so he must be fit now. Whether he could do 90 minutes yet is another question.
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Swindon Town game
Post by: ncRover on March 06, 2025, 06:53:20 am
Grant said Olowu should be fine in his Bromley post-match presser.

I wonder if Senior will play after Maxwell playing 2 in a row post-injury.

If McGrath is out for this it’s no great loss, as think Anderson would have played anyway because Smith is the biggest nastiest bas**rd striker in the division.

Their centre halves aren’t great in the air so it could be a game for Ironside to feature earlier.
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Swindon Town game
Post by: selby on March 06, 2025, 10:20:25 am
  We are lucky to have Anderson and Wood as back ups at this level.
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Swindon Town game
Post by: ForsolongaRover on March 06, 2025, 11:16:35 am
No one has mentioned that Swindon have taken 21 points from the last 10 games, all since Ian Holloway took over. He does seem to have inspired some of his teams to unexpected achievements and it has obviously worked for him there.

If nothing else, he seems to be able to bring out the best in the squad he’s got, meaning that a lot of it is to do with confidence, so we will need to match them from the start. If they do grab an early goal it will be an uphill task. 

So it is more than an average sort of fixture in my eyes, we are  meeting a form team and others will notice the result. Stop Swindon and we will have done something none of our rivals have managed so far!

(The only team that have beaten them on the 10 game run was Harrogate - 1-0 at Harrogate!)
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Swindon Town game
Post by: idler on March 06, 2025, 11:49:25 am
Salford drew with them on Tuesday, equalising twice, once within a minute or so. In my opinion we should be ok if we take our chances.
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Swindon Town game
Post by: Alan Southstand on March 06, 2025, 08:38:11 pm
Mate that ‘if’ bold and in capitals, especially after Bromley!

We have to get back winning, by whatever means we can.
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Swindon Town game
Post by: les@donr on March 06, 2025, 09:29:12 pm
Being more clinical in front of goal would help.
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Swindon Town game
Post by: Usher wide. on March 06, 2025, 10:13:32 pm
I’d play Senior. We need to be better down that left hand side.

I’d drop Clifton & play Ironside (no better player to hold the ball up & bring players into play moving forward) up front with Street.

This truly is a MUST WIN game.
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Swindon Town game
Post by: les@donr on March 06, 2025, 10:58:28 pm
Maybe Swindon do not like visiting Yorkshire, they recently lost at Harrogate.
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Swindon Town game
Post by: selby on March 07, 2025, 09:53:14 am
Harrogate play a style of football we have had difficulty with in most games when we have played them, it's no surprise that on their day they can beat anyone in this division,.
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Swindon Town game
Post by: Wiltshire Exile on March 07, 2025, 10:17:02 am
  Sorry Wilts, big fingers.

Not a problem, Selby! Most of us do it, eh?
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Swindon Town game
Post by: TonySoprano on March 07, 2025, 10:23:04 am
8000 vs Newport.
Hopefully get 8500 for this one
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Swindon Town game
Post by: RoversInSpain on March 07, 2025, 11:00:57 am
I’d play Senior. We need to be better down that left hand side.

I’d drop Clifton & play Ironside (no better player to hold the ball up & bring players into play moving forward) up front with Street.

This truly is a MUST WIN game.
Must say I struggle with this hold up concept.
Ironside has had a shocking season, possibly through no fault of his own. The last few games when Street has started we’ve got the ball up into dangerous areas really quickly to our wide players with Street facing and running at goal and having a real go. We’ve created a lot of chances and caused some havoc in the last 4 games. All is see when using Ironside is a huge wrestling match, nowhere near the goal, back to goal, rarely wins a free kick. So who exactly is he holding it up for? To me this just allows the opposing defenders time to organise themselves and close us out. I Like Ironside a lot, but back to goal and wrestling is just not working for him or the attack.
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Swindon Town game
Post by: Fal on March 07, 2025, 02:32:43 pm
  When they report back tomorrow and the state of the injuries are known could be a big day for the management.

Fully fit squad according to grant on the pre match interview which is great to hear!
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Swindon Town game
Post by: In the box on March 07, 2025, 10:47:52 pm
  When they report back tomorrow and the state of the injuries are known could be a big day for the management.

Fully fit squad according to grant on the pre match interview which is great to hear!
. This will see if we can be challengers , our home form is so unpredictable and Swindon’s form has improved since Ian Holloway took charge . Is faint praise of the Rovers and his admonishment of his own team says banana skin beware !!
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Swindon Town game
Post by: rover-n-out on March 08, 2025, 10:11:55 am
Does anyone know what our form against Holloway is btw?
Thanks.
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Swindon Town game
Post by: idler on March 08, 2025, 10:21:49 am
Does anyone know what our form against Holloway is btw?
Thanks.
Aren’t the Belles more likely to have played Holloway? ;)
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Swindon Town game
Post by: Barmby Rover on March 08, 2025, 10:57:23 am
A good day for Rovers, Wimbledon and Notts County play each other, they can't both win! Hopefully a draw and a nice big win against Swindon, and Bradford at Gillingham, there's always hope! Fingers crossed.
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Swindon Town game
Post by: Padge_DRFC on March 08, 2025, 11:13:49 am
Gillingham are so useless it's unreal. Shocking manager appointment too
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Swindon Town game
Post by: The Dav on March 08, 2025, 11:43:08 am
I fancy Sterry today to score, he’s started getting shots off now and has been unlucky recently with some decent saves and the woodwork getting in the way ! 10/1 + anytime with most bookies.
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Swindon Town game
Post by: ncRover on March 08, 2025, 12:18:18 pm
Think Wimbledon will beat Notts comfortably looking at the lineups.
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Swindon Town game
Post by: karldew on March 08, 2025, 12:23:05 pm
I fancy Sterry today to score, he’s started getting shots off now and has been unlucky recently with some decent saves and the woodwork getting in the way ! 10/1 + anytime with most bookies.

40/1 to score from outside the box with bet365
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Swindon Town game
Post by: Prez on March 08, 2025, 12:24:22 pm
Make no mistake this will be a tough game today. Holloway will have them organised. 
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Swindon Town game
Post by: donnyguy on March 08, 2025, 12:41:59 pm
Walsall already winning
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Swindon Town game
Post by: Alan Southstand on March 08, 2025, 12:53:19 pm
Not now - Grimsby equalised.
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Swindon Town game
Post by: donnyguy on March 08, 2025, 12:58:44 pm
Wimbledon 1 up over notts county
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Swindon Town game
Post by: Alan Southstand on March 08, 2025, 01:01:21 pm
Notts County havn’t registered a shot in the first 30 minutes!
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Swindon Town game
Post by: drfchound on March 08, 2025, 01:11:47 pm
Just had a look at the table as it stands right now.
A few weeks back some people were saying that if teams won their games in hand over us then we could be in mid table.
If the scores in the two early kick off turn into results then only PV can go past us, IF they were to win their two games in hand and improve their goal difference by at least three goals.
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Swindon Town game
Post by: donnyguy on March 08, 2025, 01:12:37 pm
County 2down
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Swindon Town game
Post by: tommy toes on March 08, 2025, 01:17:40 pm
Grimsby 2-1 up after conceding early on. They are by far the bettrr team.
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Swindon Town game
Post by: mushRTID on March 08, 2025, 01:20:31 pm
We really need to get top 3, there’s a few teams that worry me in the play offs, Grimsby definitely one of them.
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Swindon Town game
Post by: Sammy Chung was King on March 08, 2025, 01:32:51 pm
We should be winning this league, just dropping silly points here and there. Tough one today, just make sure we win scrappy or not.
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Swindon Town game
Post by: dknward2 on March 08, 2025, 01:51:01 pm
For me me today is a must not lose.

Tbh don't care if we win 1 nil with the crapest goal of all time, but three points is all that matters right now
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Swindon Town game
Post by: Barmby Rover on March 08, 2025, 02:10:19 pm
GM goes with a back 3, and an attacking midfield behind Street and the 2 wingers. He is going for it, and giving a rest to injured players.
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Swindon Town game
Post by: GazLaz on March 08, 2025, 02:36:17 pm
GM goes with a back 3, and an attacking midfield behind Street and the 2 wingers. He is going for it, and giving a rest to injured players.

Does he? Bailey will play centre half won’t he?
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Swindon Town game
Post by: Sammy Chung was King on March 08, 2025, 02:46:14 pm
This league is there to be won. The top of the league are stuttering a bit, Bradford in my opinion are not a special side, up to now neither are we. We need a level of consistency put together.
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Swindon Town game
Post by: Alan Southstand on March 08, 2025, 02:51:20 pm
Not impressed with that side! No injuries? GM having a laugh.
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Swindon Town game
Post by: i_ateallthepies on March 08, 2025, 02:52:43 pm
Grimsby and Walsall on today's evidence are nothing, a slug fest with head tennis thrown in.  At least Wimbledon and Notts C were playing football.
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Swindon Town game
Post by: Colemans Left Hook on March 08, 2025, 02:56:17 pm
This league is there to be won. The top of the league are stuttering a bit, Bradford in my opinion are not a special side, up to now neither are we. We need a level of consistency put together.

George Byas start for unbeaten this year PV (looked injured on Tuesday) but the Bradford pair Star Man  Sarcevic & Patterson are out they signed Lapsie from Gillingham in January and he made his debut midweek -somehow scored 2 goals against "no mugs" Cheltenham

if we can win today AND  GILLINGHAM GET A RESULT   then we will be about 4/1 for the title and heavy favourites for top 3   that word "lf" again

but a lot of "if's" have happened recently
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Swindon Town game
Post by: Sammy Chung was King on March 08, 2025, 03:31:43 pm
We have a good chance, I see nothing special around us. See this game out first though.
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Swindon Town game
Post by: Northants Nomad on March 08, 2025, 04:06:27 pm
Not impressed with that side! No injuries? GM having a laugh.
How are you feeling about "that side" and GM's alleged sense of humour after the first 45 mins?
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Swindon Town game
Post by: NickDRFC on March 08, 2025, 04:11:04 pm
Not impressed with that side! No injuries? GM having a laugh.
How are you feeling about "that side" and GM's alleged sense of humour after the first 45 mins?

How are you feeling after the first 52 minutes? Hopefully we sort ourselves out but that’s a shocking start to the 2nd half.
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Swindon Town game
Post by: Spilsby Red on March 08, 2025, 04:59:16 pm
They did a job on us us in the first few mins of second half like we did them in first part of first half. Frustrating as Walsall and Bradford drop points. Never mind. Onwards and upwards
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Swindon Town game
Post by: i_ateallthepies on March 08, 2025, 05:03:15 pm
I'm waiting for Gazlaz to come on and tell us how brilliant Gibson is and how difficult one-on-ones and tapins are to score.
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Swindon Town game
Post by: Spilsby Red on March 08, 2025, 05:05:39 pm
So we drew because of Gibson. Only a week ago people were praising him. Win as a team lose as a team draw as a team. Frustrating yes. But not the end of the world
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Swindon Town game
Post by: i_ateallthepies on March 08, 2025, 05:07:45 pm
It's people coming on here telling us how brilliant he is week after week that's the problem.
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Swindon Town game
Post by: Spilsby Red on March 08, 2025, 05:10:23 pm
Have I said it was brilliant. No. Just they did a job on us at the start of second half. So stop spouting rubbish like you did on the Gibson post.
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Swindon Town game
Post by: i_ateallthepies on March 08, 2025, 05:14:49 pm
Where did I say you had?  and you mention Broadbent's shot, who made the assist for Street's opener?
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Swindon Town game
Post by: Spilsby Red on March 08, 2025, 05:17:48 pm
You mentioned people coming on here saying we were brilliant. No one else had been on here except us two after the match
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Swindon Town game
Post by: Alan Southstand on March 08, 2025, 05:19:18 pm
Gibson was very lucky to still be on the pitch! He was awful today.
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Swindon Town game
Post by: Avsuptem on March 08, 2025, 05:24:19 pm
2 hand balls in the box not given and Sharp's tap in disallowed for no discernable reason. Could have been 5 - 2 with a proper ref.
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Swindon Town game
Post by: RoversInSpain on March 08, 2025, 05:47:11 pm
2 hand balls in the box not given and Sharp's tap in disallowed for no discernable reason. Could have been 5 - 2 with a proper ref.
Sharp was given offside. He must have been as he appeared to claim to the ref he didn’t touch it and let it past him. The last 2 games we’ve chucked away, can’t blame anyone else but ourselves really
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Swindon Town game
Post by: Dutch Uncle on March 08, 2025, 05:50:50 pm
One tiny crumb of comfort - after today mathematically we can't be relegated  :lol:
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Swindon Town game
Post by: mushRTID on March 08, 2025, 05:51:18 pm
2 hand balls in the box not given and Sharp's tap in disallowed for no discernable reason. Could have been 5 - 2 with a proper ref.
Sharp was given offside. He must have been as he appeared to claim to the ref he didn’t touch it and let it past him. The last 2 games we’ve chucked away, can’t blame anyone else but ourselves really

It looked like he touched it to me. Something I don’t think he needed to do. I think he tried to get out the way but it still hit him though.
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Swindon Town game
Post by: donnievic on March 08, 2025, 05:51:48 pm
2 hand balls in the box not given and Sharp's tap in disallowed for no discernable reason. Could have been 5 - 2 with a proper ref.

never been handballs and sharp looked offside to me from south stand
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Swindon Town game
Post by: Avsuptem on March 08, 2025, 05:55:04 pm
2 hand balls in the box not given and Sharp's tap in disallowed for no discernable reason. Could have been 5 - 2 with a proper ref.

never been handballs and sharp looked offside to me from south stand

I was not there but going by Liam Holden claiming the Rovers fans in the first half were screaming for hand ball during 2 goal mouth scrambles.
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Swindon Town game
Post by: RoversInSpain on March 08, 2025, 06:05:29 pm
2 hand balls in the box not given and Sharp's tap in disallowed for no discernable reason. Could have been 5 - 2 with a proper ref.
Sharp was given offside. He must have been as he appeared to claim to the ref he didn’t touch it and let it past him. The last 2 games we’ve chucked away, can’t blame anyone else but ourselves really

It looked like he touched it to me. Something I don’t think he needed to do. I think he tried to get out the way but it still hit him though.
Yes agreed, it did look like he touched it in.

Title: Re: Let's talk about the Swindon Town game
Post by: ForsolongaRover on March 08, 2025, 06:10:41 pm
As I read the League 2 stats, we followed what has become an an undesirable pattern today. We lost yet another game in which we were ahead at half time. Of the leading clubs we seem to be the worst at this  and it reflects badly on our ability to play under pressure.

On Tuesday it was pressure to break down a defence which we had the skill to penetrate yet lacked the ability to shoot straight. And today was just the same. We scored 2 goals when  there was no pressure and then succumbed to classic opening pressure from a side whose manager obviously inspired a great fight-back. As we strived to get back in front the pressure to break the deadlock was too much and we failed yet again.

This is not an encouraging trait and you might wonder whether a team with a record such as ours gets the best advice at half time, since we routinely do worse in the second half.
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Swindon Town game
Post by: colincramb on March 08, 2025, 06:14:00 pm
We are doing our best to blow it. We be given 2 gifts this week with results and we should be well clear of 4th and 5th place.
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Swindon Town game
Post by: normal rules on March 08, 2025, 06:15:28 pm
It’s the rovers way.
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Swindon Town game
Post by: adamtherover on March 08, 2025, 06:15:56 pm
As I read the League 2 stats, we followed what has become an an undesirable pattern today. We lost yet another game in which we were ahead at half time. Of the leading clubs we seem to be the worst at this  and it reflects badly on our ability to play under pressure.

On Tuesday it was pressure to break down a defence which we had the skill to penetrate yet lacked the ability to shoot straight. And today was just the same. We scored 2 goals when  there was no pressure and then succumbed to classic opening pressure from a side whose manager obviously inspired a great fight-back. As we strived to get back in front the pressure to break the deadlock was too much and we failed yet again.

This is not an encouraging trait and you might wonder whether a team with a record such as ours gets the best advice at half time, since we routinely do worse in the second half.
we lost yet another game we were leading at half time? Really? Someone been on the sauce already? For the record, a), we didn't lose, and b) , aside from Newport away, every time we have scored first, we have won, so pleased explain about this losing pattern?
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Swindon Town game
Post by: RoversInSpain on March 08, 2025, 06:21:32 pm
As I read the League 2 stats, we followed what has become an an undesirable pattern today. We lost yet another game in which we were ahead at half time. Of the leading clubs we seem to be the worst at this  and it reflects badly on our ability to play under pressure.

On Tuesday it was pressure to break down a defence which we had the skill to penetrate yet lacked the ability to shoot straight. And today was just the same. We scored 2 goals when  there was no pressure and then succumbed to classic opening pressure from a side whose manager obviously inspired a great fight-back. As we strived to get back in front the pressure to break the deadlock was too much and we failed yet again.

This is not an encouraging trait and you might wonder whether a team with a record such as ours gets the best advice at half time, since we routinely do worse in the second half.
We lost today? You sure? Bizarre !
Anyway on Tuesday the teams around us play so will be level on games baring Port Vale who will still have a game in hand. Let’s see how they get on with a little pressure.
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Swindon Town game
Post by: Alan Southstand on March 08, 2025, 06:22:05 pm
We still threw 2 points away. Midfield was very ordinary today but Gibson/Sbarra were fighting it out for worst player on the pitch. Obviously S’barra scored, so Gibson just gets it. Don’t want to see that combination again, Grant!
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Swindon Town game
Post by: ForsolongaRover on March 08, 2025, 06:23:07 pm
h
As I read the League 2 stats, we followed what has become an an undesirable pattern today. We lost yet another game in which we were ahead at half time. Of the leading clubs we seem to be the worst at this  and it reflects badly on our ability to play under pressure.

On Tuesday it was pressure to break down a defence which we had the skill to penetrate yet lacked the ability to shoot straight. And today was just the same. We scored 2 goals when  there was no pressure and then succumbed to classic opening pressure from a side whose manager obviously inspired a great fight-back. As we strived to get back in front the pressure to break the deadlock was too much and we failed yet again.

This is not an encouraging trait and you might wonder whether a team with a record such as ours gets the best advice at half time, since we routinely do worse in the second half.
we lost yet another game we were leading at half time? Really? Someone been on the sauce already? For the record, a), we didn't lose, and b) , aside from Newport away, every time we have scored first, we have won, so pleased explain about this losing pattern?

Sorry - I meant “failed to win” of course, but I was quoting from footystats.org. I am open to correction if my premise is incorrect, but it does reflect the impression I have taken from the general trend of results this season. If you believe the we have the required spirit to overcome pressure it would be good to hear examples.
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Swindon Town game
Post by: Padge_DRFC on March 08, 2025, 06:25:59 pm
We still threw 2 points away. Midfield was very ordinary today but Gibson/Sbarra were fighting it out for worst player on the pitch. Obviously S’barra scored, so Gibson just gets it. Don’t want to see that combination again, Grant!

What's the alternative? Clifton and Ennis? No thanks
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Swindon Town game
Post by: RoversInSpain on March 08, 2025, 06:36:07 pm
For the record we’ve only lost once in the league when scoring first (Newport A)
We’ve drawn a few when scoring first but not many for it to be a pattern.
Probably more of a concern is that we’ve not won a game when going behind in the league this season
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Swindon Town game
Post by: mushRTID on March 08, 2025, 06:37:49 pm
I thought our corners were shocking today.
We didn’t seem to know what we were doing with them, took ages with each one as well.

They were also massive at the back, I don’t know why we didn’t take some short ones again when we had the opportunity to take them quick and keep pressure on.
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Swindon Town game
Post by: ravenrover on March 08, 2025, 06:39:07 pm
Spoke to McGrath in the car park before the game, slight injury more precautionary he didn't play. I said I'd seen Joe previously and same applied. Both should be OK for Sat
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Swindon Town game
Post by: adamtherover on March 08, 2025, 06:43:57 pm
h
As I read the League 2 stats, we followed what has become an an undesirable pattern today. We lost yet another game in which we were ahead at half time. Of the leading clubs we seem to be the worst at this  and it reflects badly on our ability to play under pressure.

On Tuesday it was pressure to break down a defence which we had the skill to penetrate yet lacked the ability to shoot straight. And today was just the same. We scored 2 goals when  there was no pressure and then succumbed to classic opening pressure from a side whose manager obviously inspired a great fight-back. As we strived to get back in front the pressure to break the deadlock was too much and we failed yet again.

This is not an encouraging trait and you might wonder whether a team with a record such as ours gets the best advice at half time, since we routinely do worse in the second half.
we lost yet another game we were leading at half time? Really? Someone been on the sauce already? For the record, a), we didn't lose, and b) , aside from Newport away, every time we have scored first, we have won, so pleased explain about this losing pattern?

Sorry - I meant “failed to win” of course, but I was quoting from footystats.org. I am open to correction if my premise is incorrect, but it does reflect the impression I have taken from the general trend of results this season. If you believe the we have the required spirit to overcome pressure it would be good to hear examples.
most of our wins are by a single goal, thats seeing games out and handling the pressure..
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Swindon Town game
Post by: Dutch Uncle on March 08, 2025, 06:56:52 pm
Spoke to McGrath in the car park before the game, slight injury more precautionary he didn't play. I said I'd seen Joe previously and same applied. Both should be OK for Sat

good news

tbf when I saw the lineup and given Swindon's form, I would have accepted a draw before the match. 
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Swindon Town game
Post by: richtherover on March 08, 2025, 09:07:46 pm
How ironic that we couldn't score in 100  minutes at Bromley and get one in the first minute today. Really frustrating second half, feels like a defeat.
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Swindon Town game
Post by: graingrover on March 08, 2025, 09:15:04 pm
I don’t feel defeated .
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Swindon Town game
Post by: TheFunk on March 08, 2025, 10:20:55 pm
I wonder if Holloway was waiting in the car park to fight whoever it was of our coaching staff is threat was aimed at.
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Swindon Town game
Post by: Pancho Regan on March 08, 2025, 10:26:22 pm
I was gutted at full time because we thoroughly deserved to win that game.
A 2-hour drive home and a steak and chips dinner gives me time to reflect.

We played really well today. I might be frustrated by the result but I am not in the least disappointed by the performance.
The first half was a very dominant display, continuing from the last home performance against Newport and the total domination of the game at Bromley.
I honestly thought we would push on in the second half and win by 3 or 4 goals.

But they took their two chances well and we just couldn’t get the winner.
We were forced to field an entirely new back four and I thought they played really well. Jack Senior in particular was excellent and was MOTM for me. I was gutted for him that his slip in the 2nd half proved costly but he can still be proud of his performance, especially in the first half.

So I’m still very positive and I’m heartened by our three performances this week. We deserved 9 points from those 3 games but that’s football.

I have faith and belief that this squad will get us promoted.


Title: Re: Let's talk about the Swindon Town game
Post by: Bailey Vickerage on March 09, 2025, 02:55:06 am
I was gutted at full time because we thoroughly deserved to win that game.
A 2-hour drive home and a steak and chips dinner gives me time to reflect.

We played really well today. I might be frustrated by the result but I am not in the least disappointed by the performance.
The first half was a very dominant display, continuing from the last home performance against Newport and the total domination of the game at Bromley.
I honestly thought we would push on in the second half and win by 3 or 4 goals.

But they took their two chances well and we just couldn’t get the winner.
We were forced to field an entirely new back four and I thought they played really well. Jack Senior in particular was excellent and was MOTM for me. I was gutted for him that his slip in the 2nd half proved costly but he can still be proud of his performance, especially in the first half.

So I’m still very positive and I’m heartened by our three performances this week. We deserved 9 points from those 3 games but that’s football.

I have faith and belief that this squad will get us promoted.



Senior had a great first half but was a big part for their 2 goals.

Molyneux by far MOTM today.

Overall great first half and ruthless, awful start to the 2nd half with 2 shocking goals to concede and should’ve been 3-2 really with Smiths header.

After that we got back on the front foot and looked like we were going to knick it.

Definitely offside but can’t blame Sharp for that as strikers instinct to finish that off and thought the late handball was a pen but the defender had his back to the ref so couldn’t see anything.
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Swindon Town game
Post by: idler on March 09, 2025, 09:48:09 am
At the end of the day we are all disappointed but I don’t think that any other side in this league could afford to change their entire back four and do as well or better. Especially given Senior and Nixon’s lack of game time. Move onto the next match with a full week to get players back.
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Swindon Town game
Post by: Dutch Uncle on March 09, 2025, 10:05:45 am
How many times do we see a match where both teams score within a minute of a kick-off that they did not take :lol::silly:
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Swindon Town game
Post by: Petche on March 09, 2025, 12:06:55 pm
We still threw 2 points away. Midfield was very ordinary today but Gibson/Sbarra were fighting it out for worst player on the pitch. Obviously S’barra scored, so Gibson just gets it. Don’t want to see that combination again, Grant!

What's the alternative? Clifton and Ennis? No thanks

The disappointment for me were the fullbacks. I'd always considered we had good cover in those positions but when called upon yesterday thought both were poor. Maybe lack of game time is a factor?
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Swindon Town game
Post by: GazLaz on March 09, 2025, 12:21:05 pm
We still threw 2 points away. Midfield was very ordinary today but Gibson/Sbarra were fighting it out for worst player on the pitch. Obviously S’barra scored, so Gibson just gets it. Don’t want to see that combination again, Grant!

What's the alternative? Clifton and Ennis? No thanks

The disappointment for me were the fullbacks. I'd always considered we had good cover in those positions but when called upon yesterday thought both were poor. Maybe lack of game time is a factor?

Senior had generally played well this season when called upon but I always see a centre half when I watch him play. Sure that’s where he would play if he wasn’t so small.
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Swindon Town game
Post by: dickos1 on March 09, 2025, 12:26:19 pm
As I read the League 2 stats, we followed what has become an an undesirable pattern today. We lost yet another game in which we were ahead at half time. Of the leading clubs we seem to be the worst at this  and it reflects badly on our ability to play under pressure.

On Tuesday it was pressure to break down a defence which we had the skill to penetrate yet lacked the ability to shoot straight. And today was just the same. We scored 2 goals when  there was no pressure and then succumbed to classic opening pressure from a side whose manager obviously inspired a great fight-back. As we strived to get back in front the pressure to break the deadlock was too much and we failed yet again.

This is not an encouraging trait and you might wonder whether a team with a record such as ours gets the best advice at half time, since we routinely do worse in the second half.

This is just all pure made up madness.
How are we the worst at losing games when we’re ahead at half time?
It’s happened once in 36 games.
Absolute made up nonsense
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Swindon Town game
Post by: StocksArmy on March 09, 2025, 01:17:14 pm
I’m hurting today. I think we have continuously proven that we are playoff fodder. We bottle it when it matters the most and moving into the last 10 games I just can’t imagine us beating Walsall, Wimbledon, Bradford and Notts. I’m seeing a club giving everything they have to get out of this league and for me I’ve an awful feeling we are going to fall short.
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Swindon Town game
Post by: Petche on March 09, 2025, 01:22:15 pm
I’m hurting today. I think we have continuously proven that we are playoff fodder. We bottle it when it matters the most and moving into the last 10 games I just can’t imagine us beating Walsall, Wimbledon, Bradford and Notts. I’m seeing a club giving everything they have to get out of this league and for me I’ve an awful feeling we are going to fall short.

Agreed, if we need something from the Bradford and Notts games I don't fancy us.
Hope I'm proved wrong of course.
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Swindon Town game
Post by: ncRover on March 09, 2025, 03:12:03 pm
I’m hurting today. I think we have continuously proven that we are playoff fodder. We bottle it when it matters the most and moving into the last 10 games I just can’t imagine us beating Walsall, Wimbledon, Bradford and Notts. I’m seeing a club giving everything they have to get out of this league and for me I’ve an awful feeling we are going to fall short.

We’ll win the next 2. Then it’s a very tough run.

Colchester at home being overlooked as a very difficult game. They are hard to break down.

Could do with the Notts game being sooner, they are awful atm.
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Swindon Town game
Post by: DonnyBazR0ver on March 09, 2025, 03:30:45 pm
I doubt very much the way things are going, other teams being immune from nerves and having costly shaky moments. There was alot to like yesterday as it's only those silly 10 mins, that tainted an otherwise strong performance, worthy of 3 points overall.

Every game from now on is equally difficult and it's very much on the day who'll come out winners.
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Swindon Town game
Post by: ForsolongaRover on March 09, 2025, 04:45:52 pm
As I read the League 2 stats, we followed what has become an an undesirable pattern today. We lost yet another game in which we were ahead at half time. Of the leading clubs we seem to be the worst at this  and it reflects badly on our ability to play under pressure.

On Tuesday it was pressure to break down a defence which we had the skill to penetrate yet lacked the ability to shoot straight. And today was just the same. We scored 2 goals when  there was no pressure and then succumbed to classic opening pressure from a side whose manager obviously inspired a great fight-back. As we strived to get back in front the pressure to break the deadlock was too much and we failed yet again.

This is not an encouraging trait and you might wonder whether a team with a record such as ours gets the best advice at half time, since we routinely do worse in the second half.

This is just all pure made up madness.
How are we the worst at losing games when we’re ahead at half time?
It’s happened once in 36 games.
Absolute made up nonsense

Having gone to the actual results I apologise for my total misinterpretation of the Footystats data, so not exactly "made-up", but definitely wrong. Sorry, but of course I remain disappointed by the capitulation which I see was described as "atrocious" by McCann. 
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Swindon Town game
Post by: Pancho Regan on March 09, 2025, 06:31:03 pm
We still threw 2 points away. Midfield was very ordinary today but Gibson/Sbarra were fighting it out for worst player on the pitch. Obviously S’barra scored, so Gibson just gets it. Don’t want to see that combination again, Grant!

What's the alternative? Clifton and Ennis? No thanks

The disappointment for me were the fullbacks. I'd always considered we had good cover in those positions but when called upon yesterday thought both were poor. Maybe lack of game time is a factor?

It’s amazing how we all see different things in the same match, but that’s the beauty of football fans’ opinions.
I thought the full backs did really well yesterday.
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Swindon Town game
Post by: Peebles Rover on March 09, 2025, 08:41:10 pm
I was gutted at full time because we thoroughly deserved to win that game.
A 2-hour drive home and a steak and chips dinner gives me time to reflect.

We played really well today. I might be frustrated by the result but I am not in the least disappointed by the performance.
The first half was a very dominant display, continuing from the last home performance against Newport and the total domination of the game at Bromley.
I honestly thought we would push on in the second half and win by 3 or 4 goals.

But they took their two chances well and we just couldn’t get the winner.
We were forced to field an entirely new back four and I thought they played really well. Jack Senior in particular was excellent and was MOTM for me. I was gutted for him that his slip in the 2nd half proved costly but he can still be proud of his performance, especially in the first half.

So I’m still very positive and I’m heartened by our three performances this week. We deserved 9 points from those 3 games but that’s football.

I have faith and belief that this squad will get us promoted.




It's only the second game I've been able to get to live this season. I left a little disappointed tbh. I didn't think we thoroughly deserved to win. I think we had a couple of late chances to sneak a win but on the whole thought Swindon kept possession and controlled the play better than us. I thought we just didn't have the quality, especially in midfield. We never looked comfortable with the ball and never really controlled the game. It always comes wide down our right and we play in tight little corners. Play is slow and predictable, set pieces poor - throw ins and corners. I really hope we go on to clinch promotion but I think it will be close. Can't see us doing the run we did last year. Overall it feels like we have a lot of average players who don't dominate proceedings.
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Swindon Town game
Post by: Alan Southstand on March 09, 2025, 10:26:29 pm
Peebles, I’ve been critical of the midfield for some time and yesterday was no exception. We missed Bailey’s involvement in there, for sure, as Broadbent and Crew perhaps did their best but fell well short of expectation. Then we took Clifton out and put S’Barra in there and for large parts of the game, he was anonymous. Certainly, when GM finally brought him on, he helped shore up the middle.

It certainly baffles me how Grant, a decent midfielder in his day, doesn’t seem to be able to find the quality we’re obviously crying out for in the middle of the park. Getting in 18/19 year old lads in hasn’t worked at all this season (yet).

I think we’ve got a struggle on our hands to hang onto 3rd place. Other sides have got much more momentum than us!
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Swindon Town game
Post by: Cramby10 on March 10, 2025, 08:16:37 am
Peebles, I’ve been critical of the midfield for some time and yesterday was no exception. We missed Bailey’s involvement in there, for sure, as Broadbent and Crew perhaps did their best but fell well short of expectation. Then we took Clifton out and put S’Barra in there and for large parts of the game, he was anonymous. Certainly, when GM finally brought him on, he helped shore up the middle.

It certainly baffles me how Grant, a decent midfielder in his day, doesn’t seem to be able to find the quality we’re obviously crying out for in the middle of the park. Getting in 18/19 year old lads in hasn’t worked at all this season (yet).

I think we’ve got a struggle on our hands to hang onto 3rd place. Other sides have got much more momentum than us!
the point about midfield is a definitely a concern. Especially regarding Clifton and Sbarra. I’ve a bee in my bonnet about these two. They’re so so poor. Both playing above their level.
We’re effectively playing with 10 men most matches. And as someone said recently, you’re only as good as your worst players. So when it comes to a straight choice between these two for a starting spot it really shows that we’re lacking quality.
What’s happened to Kelly by the way?
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Swindon Town game
Post by: pib on March 10, 2025, 08:21:23 am
Kelly was still suspended.

Sbarra can drift out of games and be a bit anonymous at times, but he’s got far more quality and intelligence on the ball than Clifton. We probably need better than both in there though, in reality.
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Swindon Town game
Post by: Cramby10 on March 10, 2025, 08:27:52 am
Kelly was still suspended.

Sbarra can drift out of games and be a bit anonymous at times, but he’s got far more quality and intelligence on the ball than Clifton. We probably need better than both in there though, in reality.
ah yes. I forgot about his sending off. Ta.
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Swindon Town game
Post by: Colemans Left Hook on March 16, 2025, 10:07:38 am
This league is there to be won. The top of the league are stuttering a bit, Bradford in my opinion are not a special side, up to now neither are we. We need a level of consistency put together.

George Byas start for unbeaten this year PV (looked injured on Tuesday) but the Bradford pair Star Man  Sarcevic & Patterson are out they signed Lapsie from Gillingham in January and he made his debut midweek -somehow scored 2 goals against "no mugs" Cheltenham

if we can win today AND  GILLINGHAM GET A RESULT   then we will be about 4/1 for the title and heavy favourites for top 3   that word "lf" again

but a lot of "if's" have happened recently

After Bradford lost yesterday I checked to see if   Sarcevic (far too good for this division) & Patterson played and they didn't

Actually i was wrong about "the somehow "  beating Cheltenham it was a very unlikely 3-0 and i treated that result with suspicion as i expected a draw with those 2 out.

perhaps Idler can stop living up to his name  & go up river and give us an update on the injured pair -
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Swindon Town game
Post by: idler on March 16, 2025, 01:24:21 pm
Pattison is training again now after an appendix operation.
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Swindon Town game
Post by: Colemans Left Hook on March 16, 2025, 05:04:05 pm
thanks Idler (you know I was only joking) I have said earlier this season that I want you to win the P & O
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Swindon Town game
Post by: idler on March 16, 2025, 08:24:29 pm
I only want to win if all of my win predictions come true CLH.
Fingers crossed for the next few games.