Viking Supporters Co-operative

Viking Chat => Viking Chat => Topic started by: selby on March 10, 2025, 12:37:12 pm

Title: Let's talk about the Crewe Alexandra game
Post by: selby on March 10, 2025, 12:37:12 pm
  We are still in the mix hanging on in there and we could really do with a win and the three points form this game, a game against a side that has had our number especially in the playoff semi final second leg last season, pushing all the right buttons with the right sort of tactics that have upset our game quite a few times since as other teams capitalise on the example they set on the Televising of that game.
   Play like we did in that five minute horror show on Saturday and we are going to struggle, but hopefully we will at least have some returning from injury who missed the game Saturday, especially Olowu our only defender with pace, and the way he has played a player any team at our level would miss if not playing and left us looking vulnerable on Saturday when run at at pace.
   Crewe themselves have not been in the best of form and are clinging on to a play off place winning 2 losing 2 and drawing 2 of their last six games and will feel they need a result from this game as much as we do.
    So a game with lot's on it, two teams not at the top of their game and us hoping for some returning players from injury while Crewe will look at the draw here and the penalty shoot out win in the playoffs as pointing the way they will set up to give them their best chance of winning.
  I also go with the thoughts of some on here that the officials we have been unfortunate enough to have allotted to our games have not exactly covered themselves in glory and are becoming more and more inconsistent to the point of in some cases influencing the result of the games for both sides they are so incompetent in particular the assistant lino's who are fast becoming just there to give decisions when the ball goes out of play, and get a good percentage of those decisions wrong.
  Can we start another little run of wins? will some of our injured be fit for the game? I thought Crew our player showed glimpses of real class on Saturday, if he gets on his game I think he can drive us forward, what do you think? Are you going? will you visit the chip shop opposite? a massive question. Lots to chew over so to speak, please have your say.
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Crewe Alexandra game
Post by: roversdude on March 10, 2025, 03:33:51 pm
Crewe are missing their main goal threat Treacy having broken his leg. With a bit of luck Demetriu will still be out too
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Crewe Alexandra game
Post by: Jersey Rover on March 10, 2025, 05:13:31 pm
Our next two games are huge in the context of automatics or play offs
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Crewe Alexandra game
Post by: Scooter on March 10, 2025, 06:01:22 pm
I’ve been to Crewe a few times but not going this time. Their prices are ridiculous for this level, and I’m still pissed off with them for the play offs.
It’s my birthday next Monday so don’t want my weekend ruined by that shower
Safe travels to those that go

Hopefully we get the 3 points
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Crewe Alexandra game
Post by: drfchound on March 10, 2025, 06:02:26 pm
The match is live on sky at 12.30 on Saturday.
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Crewe Alexandra game
Post by: Padge_DRFC on March 10, 2025, 07:36:26 pm
See you all at Salford at normal prices. Oh and Salford will make more money from us when double turn up
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Crewe Alexandra game
Post by: Pancho Regan on March 11, 2025, 09:09:20 am
I'm miffed about Crewe's prices too, but I'll be there.

Firstly I live virtually half way between Donny and Crewe, so not such a long journey for me.
Secondly I'm trying to get to as many games as possible in this promotion season.

 :)
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Crewe Alexandra game
Post by: selby on March 11, 2025, 10:50:42 am
  Let's hope all the supporters who are following the team away and are being ripped off by clubs like Crewe see a stella performance from our lads that make their journey worthwhile and we come away with the three points.
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Crewe Alexandra game
Post by: IDM on March 11, 2025, 11:13:59 am
  Let's hope all the supporters who are following the team away and are being ripped off by clubs like Crewe see a stella performance from our lads that make their journey worthwhile and we come away with the three points.

I would hope they keep their drinking until after the game.!!
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Crewe Alexandra game
Post by: i_ateallthepies on March 11, 2025, 12:26:12 pm
Just wondering what tricks Stella has in her show...
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Crewe Alexandra game
Post by: drfchound on March 11, 2025, 09:03:41 pm
Not as many as Sellafield Sue by all accounts.
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Crewe Alexandra game
Post by: Barmby Rover on March 11, 2025, 10:39:02 pm
I think last weekend will have given thee squad yet another kick up the backside. They can and will beat Crewe
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Crewe Alexandra game
Post by: ncRover on March 12, 2025, 08:42:34 am
Attacking midfielder Jack Lankester helped them get lots of points in the first half of the season and he’s been out since January. 20 games 7 goals 6 assists.

If you compound the injuries of him, Demetriou and now Tracey along with their current form (18th over last 10 games), they are in a false position and are a side we should be beating comfortably.
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Crewe Alexandra game
Post by: GazLaz on March 12, 2025, 09:05:11 am
Attacking midfielder Jack Lankester helped them get lots of points in the first half of the season and he’s been out since January. 20 games 7 goals 6 assists.

If you compound the injuries of him, Demetriou and now Tracey along with their current form (18th over last 10 games), they are in a false position and are a side we should be beating comfortably.

They were over performing the numbers in the first hang of the season, but they did that in the latter half of last season. They perhaps just have a way of playing that isn’t picked up well in the models. Injuries hurting them not. We are lucky that we could change the entire back 4 at the weekend nearly get away with it. No other team could do that.
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Crewe Alexandra game
Post by: Pancho Regan on March 12, 2025, 09:39:58 am
Attacking midfielder Jack Lankester helped them get lots of points in the first half of the season and he’s been out since January. 20 games 7 goals 6 assists.

If you compound the injuries of him, Demetriou and now Tracey along with their current form (18th over last 10 games), they are in a false position and are a side we should be beating comfortably.

They were over performing the numbers in the first hang of the season, but they did that in the latter half of last season. They perhaps just have a way of playing that isn’t picked up well in the models. Injuries hurting them not. We are lucky that we could change the entire back 4 at the weekend nearly get away with it. No other team could do that.

Lucky, or good recruitment and squad-building?
Depends on how you view things I guess.
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Crewe Alexandra game
Post by: GazLaz on March 12, 2025, 09:46:06 am
Attacking midfielder Jack Lankester helped them get lots of points in the first half of the season and he’s been out since January. 20 games 7 goals 6 assists.

If you compound the injuries of him, Demetriou and now Tracey along with their current form (18th over last 10 games), they are in a false position and are a side we should be beating comfortably.

They were over performing the numbers in the first hang of the season, but they did that in the latter half of last season. They perhaps just have a way of playing that isn’t picked up well in the models. Injuries hurting them not. We are lucky that we could change the entire back 4 at the weekend nearly get away with it. No other team could do that.

Lucky, or good recruitment and squad-building?
Depends on how you view things I guess.

Lucky that funds have been made available from the big man.
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Crewe Alexandra game
Post by: IDM on March 12, 2025, 10:28:58 am
Attacking midfielder Jack Lankester helped them get lots of points in the first half of the season and he’s been out since January. 20 games 7 goals 6 assists.

If you compound the injuries of him, Demetriou and now Tracey along with their current form (18th over last 10 games), they are in a false position and are a side we should be beating comfortably.

They were over performing the numbers in the first hang of the season, but they did that in the latter half of last season. They perhaps just have a way of playing that isn’t picked up well in the models. Injuries hurting them not. We are lucky that we could change the entire back 4 at the weekend nearly get away with it. No other team could do that.

“They perhaps just have a way of playing that isn’t picked up well in the models.”

That’s why I - as a supporter rather than a coach or player - don’t rely on the detailed stats we see these days.
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Crewe Alexandra game
Post by: GazLaz on March 12, 2025, 10:44:44 am
Attacking midfielder Jack Lankester helped them get lots of points in the first half of the season and he’s been out since January. 20 games 7 goals 6 assists.

If you compound the injuries of him, Demetriou and now Tracey along with their current form (18th over last 10 games), they are in a false position and are a side we should be beating comfortably.

They were over performing the numbers in the first hang of the season, but they did that in the latter half of last season. They perhaps just have a way of playing that isn’t picked up well in the models. Injuries hurting them not. We are lucky that we could change the entire back 4 at the weekend nearly get away with it. No other team could do that.

“They perhaps just have a way of playing that isn’t picked up well in the models.”

That’s why I - as a supporter rather than a coach or player - don’t rely on the detailed stats we see these days.

Not sure anyone relies on them for anything. Just another tool in the armoury.

For what it’s worth they are probably the only outlier in L2 when it comes to assessing teams in L2 based one any semi competent model.
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Crewe Alexandra game
Post by: IDM on March 12, 2025, 11:15:44 am
If that’s how some folks assess teams that’s fair enough.

I just look at the table, the results, and possibly goals for/against..
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Crewe Alexandra game
Post by: pib on March 12, 2025, 11:16:18 am
They had a load of injuries when we played them at home IIRC but we still struggled against them. I'm sure whoever plays, their style will make this a very tough game.

We have to win really - 5-6 wins realistically needed as a minimum so there's not much margin for error. Certainly can't afford many more silly slip-ups like last week.
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Crewe Alexandra game
Post by: karldew on March 12, 2025, 09:12:54 pm
Crewe’s next 5 fixtures, more or less all 6 pointers for them;
Donny (H)
County (A)
Vale (H)
Grimsby (H)
Bradford (A)

Ouch!
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Crewe Alexandra game
Post by: GazLaz on March 13, 2025, 08:59:02 am
Crewe’s next 5 fixtures, more or less all 6 pointers for them;
Donny (H)
County (A)
Vale (H)
Grimsby (H)
Bradford (A)

Ouch!


Tough run but their style suits having a dominant possession team to play off. They struggle when they have to have 60% possession. Sound familiar? Hopefully we don’t fall into their trap on Saturday.
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Crewe Alexandra game
Post by: roversdude on March 13, 2025, 11:39:18 am
We have sold our initial allocation and been given an extra 100
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Crewe Alexandra game
Post by: pib on March 13, 2025, 03:26:16 pm
Initial allocation was 660ish I think. Taking 700+ at those prices isn't too bad.
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Crewe Alexandra game
Post by: Donnywolf on March 14, 2025, 02:39:48 pm
Have we any hints re the injury situation esp Sterry Olowu McGrath and Maxwell ?

If people were talking (hoping) of calling off Salford game due to defensive injuries then that sounds ominous as it's a week away
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Crewe Alexandra game
Post by: Barmby Rover on March 15, 2025, 11:19:15 am
Called off because of international call ups
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Crewe Alexandra game
Post by: donnyguy on March 15, 2025, 11:33:08 am
Usual back 4 missing again
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Crewe Alexandra game
Post by: Scooter on March 15, 2025, 11:34:29 am
That line up justifies why the Salford game is off. Gives an extra week for our back four to recover. Great decision
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Crewe Alexandra game
Post by: big fat yorkshire pudding on March 15, 2025, 11:34:57 am
Initial allocation was 660ish I think. Taking 700+ at those prices isn't too bad.

I picked Salford over Crewe for that reason, now can't go to either, ah well. Let's hope it's a win today.

Wood being back could be huge for the run in imo.
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Crewe Alexandra game
Post by: ravenrover on March 15, 2025, 11:37:27 am
Team
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Crewe Alexandra game
Post by: RoversInSpain on March 15, 2025, 11:38:00 am
Entire back 4 still out, cancelling Salford looks a solid move! 2 weeks to recover now
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Crewe Alexandra game
Post by: RoverinLincs on March 15, 2025, 11:54:15 am
Gibson starting again?

Has he got dirt on McCann or something!?
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Crewe Alexandra game
Post by: ncRover on March 15, 2025, 12:04:20 pm
Hemmings is an Ironside-type striker so should be fine for Wood and Anderson
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Crewe Alexandra game
Post by: Alan Southstand on March 15, 2025, 12:08:43 pm
Not a great deal of pace in that back line. Bad time to be having our entire back 4 out! At least he’s put Bailey back where he belongs.
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Crewe Alexandra game
Post by: NickDRFC on March 15, 2025, 12:22:08 pm
Mixed feelings about Wood. Our defence on paper looks more solid with him in it but this is a guy who turns 40 in 4 months and has played a grand total of 1 minute competitive action since the middle of August, which really doesn’t fill me with confidence.
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Crewe Alexandra game
Post by: Avsuptem on March 15, 2025, 12:31:32 pm
We might not have the first choice back four but we do have first choice commentators today
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Crewe Alexandra game
Post by: keith79 on March 15, 2025, 12:36:07 pm
Micky walker?
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Crewe Alexandra game
Post by: In the box on March 15, 2025, 12:49:54 pm
Mixed feelings about Wood. Our defence on paper looks more solid with him in it but this is a guy who turns 40 in 4 months and has played a grand total of 1 minute competitive action since the middle of August, which really doesn’t fill me with confidence.
I’d sooner play Ironside in defence and leave Nixon out he’s too nervous a player and makes too many mistakes when under pressure!!
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Crewe Alexandra game
Post by: mushRTID on March 15, 2025, 12:52:20 pm
We’re at the stage of the season where those teams who get promoted come from behind to win games.

It would be nice if we could finally start doing that. We look shocking.
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Crewe Alexandra game
Post by: Chris Black come back on March 15, 2025, 01:02:46 pm
Not managed it the entire season.
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Crewe Alexandra game
Post by: In the box on March 15, 2025, 01:07:42 pm
We are too weak in midfield and slow in our decision making when in front of goal .
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Crewe Alexandra game
Post by: The Dav on March 15, 2025, 01:19:27 pm
The back 4 look horrendous! I know we’re limited due to injuries, but Christ on a bike were awful !
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Crewe Alexandra game
Post by: Goole Rover on March 15, 2025, 01:19:35 pm
Another scrambled goal from the byline. What the hell was Street doing ?
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Crewe Alexandra game
Post by: In the box on March 15, 2025, 01:22:22 pm
On paper it’s not a bad lineup but without our usual back four we are going fined a mismatch between the front and the back and passes going astray . It’s not going to be easy today
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Crewe Alexandra game
Post by: Stewmaiden79 on March 15, 2025, 01:22:48 pm
Hope I’m wrong, but I don’t see a way back into this.
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Crewe Alexandra game
Post by: In the box on March 15, 2025, 01:23:30 pm
Another scrambled goal from the byline. What the hell was Street doing ?
He’s on loan for a reason …
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Crewe Alexandra game
Post by: Sammy Chung was King on March 15, 2025, 01:27:08 pm
We’ve been garbage so far. No link in our play, dinosaurs in our backline. We need two up front, I would be looking to get Billy Sharp on the pitch, put Ironside on as well, push Street out wide. The players are too wide apart, need to get closer and move the ball quicker.
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Crewe Alexandra game
Post by: selby on March 15, 2025, 01:32:34 pm
  Very badly defended in the box at the far post, but, there are not many sides in the EFL where a central defender can pick a ball up in the centre circle and drive straight down the middle of the field past three or four midfielders who can't catch the man carrying the ball, as a team we lack pace all over the pitch.
  That's what caused Anderson to commit the foul for the free kick they scored from.
  We need to improve drastically in the second half as we look anything but a promotion side, and half of them are here next season.
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Crewe Alexandra game
Post by: selby on March 15, 2025, 01:39:02 pm
  With them two full backs and that mid field playing in front of you internationals would struggle in central defence in fact Anderson has had the two best attacking runs out of midfield with the ball in the first half.
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Crewe Alexandra game
Post by: In the box on March 15, 2025, 01:48:39 pm
Nothing to show upfront , being out passed , out tackled and just not working as group around the box . Street is being out hussled and being frustrated and  stopped every time before can get started . Poor showing from us over all .
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Crewe Alexandra game
Post by: Chris Black come back on March 15, 2025, 01:57:56 pm
Omar Bogle about to come on!
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Crewe Alexandra game
Post by: selby on March 15, 2025, 02:05:57 pm
  A good goal from a set piece, now can we raise our game and pinch it? we have been better since the changes.
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Crewe Alexandra game
Post by: Goole Rover on March 15, 2025, 02:22:17 pm
That looked a penalty to me.
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Crewe Alexandra game
Post by: tommy toes on March 15, 2025, 02:25:11 pm
Nailed on penalty!
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Crewe Alexandra game
Post by: Prez on March 15, 2025, 02:26:07 pm
And yet again a bottle job from the ref. Strange game. Should have lost it, should have won it too.
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Crewe Alexandra game
Post by: drfchound on March 15, 2025, 02:26:21 pm
Clear pen for the foul on Sbarra.
Why don’t refs give them.
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Crewe Alexandra game
Post by: Chris Black come back on March 15, 2025, 02:28:22 pm
And yet again a bottle job from the ref. Strange game. Should have lost it, should have won it too.

Consistent with the fairly appalling standard of this league. Nobody good enough to really make an impact. We are still in there and now have two weeks to get everyone back fit again.
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Crewe Alexandra game
Post by: Stewmaiden79 on March 15, 2025, 02:28:44 pm
Refs in this league boil my piss.
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Crewe Alexandra game
Post by: TonySoprano on March 15, 2025, 02:29:02 pm
Very poor today.
TSL man of the match by far.
We're not going up, not good enough. Simple as.

Title: Re: Let's talk about the Crewe Alexandra game
Post by: graingrover on March 15, 2025, 02:30:58 pm
Having watched the game I would say on that performance we deserve to get promotion in the automatics.His substitutions were so effective and despite my screaming atthe screen he did not listen to me and did show us how much he understands the flow of the game and the individuals in his squad .
While you are rating the players take the time to rate the negativism of posters on our forum from one to ten then select the team you would like to spend your life with !
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Crewe Alexandra game
Post by: selby on March 15, 2025, 02:31:46 pm
  I agree Goole, but after 70 minutes I would have taken a draw, we were as poor the first half as we were the first half of last season, the thing about the penalty was he gave a free kick to Crewe straight after for basically the same thing.
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Crewe Alexandra game
Post by: Goole Rover on March 15, 2025, 02:32:59 pm
Very poor today.
TSL man of the match by far.
We're not going up, not good enough. Simple as.
For the first time I thought that Tony. Again I have to agree with you for MOM.
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Crewe Alexandra game
Post by: graingrover on March 15, 2025, 02:33:25 pm
Christ! I have just read the previous posts! ! GET On BOARD !
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Crewe Alexandra game
Post by: Stewmaiden79 on March 15, 2025, 02:35:06 pm
I know he’s not everyone’s cup of tea, but I thought pk was effective when he came on. He offers options, wants the ball and gets us forward quickly.
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Crewe Alexandra game
Post by: BillyStubbsTears on March 15, 2025, 02:39:51 pm
Having watched the game I would say on that performance we deserve to get promotion in the automatics.His substitutions were so effective and despite my screaming atthe screen he did not listen to me and did show us how much he understands the flow of the game and the individuals in his squad .

Except it's yet another game where we are poor for more than half.

That's not what promotion sides do.

That's our second point in four and a half months against a side in the top ten on the day we played them.

And worst of all, I'm still seeing no sign that McCann knows what his best XI is.
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Crewe Alexandra game
Post by: BillyStubbsTears on March 15, 2025, 02:40:51 pm
Nailed on penalty!

It was a definite penalty. In fact two. Handball then a clear foul on Kelly. Awful, awful refereeing.
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Crewe Alexandra game
Post by: Thorney on March 15, 2025, 02:42:34 pm
Having watched the game I would say on that performance we deserve to get promotion in the automatics.His substitutions were so effective and despite my screaming atthe screen he did not listen to me and did show us how much he understands the flow of the game and the individuals in his squad .

Except it's yet another game where we are poor for more than half.

That's not what promotion sides do.

That's our second point in four and a half months against a side in the top ten on the day we played them.

And worst of all, I'm still seeing no sign that McCann knows what his best XI is.

Apart from probably bradford, what other side in this league are playing better than us?? We maybe dropping points but i havnt seen another team storming the league.

Are any other side playing excellent football for a full 90mins
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Crewe Alexandra game
Post by: Chris Black come back on March 15, 2025, 02:43:01 pm
It was largely poor again today and as disjointed as it has generally been all season, but we got a point away against a promotion rival and we are still as of now, in the automatic spots. We are not great but nobody else is either.
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Crewe Alexandra game
Post by: Cramby10 on March 15, 2025, 02:43:21 pm
Having watched the game I would say on that performance we deserve to get promotion in the automatics.His substitutions were so effective and despite my screaming atthe screen he did not listen to me and did show us how much he understands the flow of the game and the individuals in his squad .
couldn’t disagree more. We don’t deserve promotion. We’re given chance after chance after chance to pull away and we’re simply not good enough to do so.
That luck will only last so long. Notts County will eventually overtake us then it’s the lottery of play-offs.
We’ve spaffed away 7 out of the last 9 available alone against sh*te.
His subs were just like every time he’s chasing the game. Very rarely works.
An on individuals, were carrying far too many.
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Crewe Alexandra game
Post by: selby on March 15, 2025, 02:43:41 pm
 Kelly, Sbarra, and Ennis to a point gave us pace that was missing, even Sharp showed movement that was not there until he came on, until the changes it was like watching the fire go out.
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Crewe Alexandra game
Post by: goalkick on March 15, 2025, 02:44:22 pm
Made a difference with the subs but we still stick with with Gibson and Clifton.
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Crewe Alexandra game
Post by: In the box on March 15, 2025, 02:44:57 pm
We can’t look for penalties as a cause for not winning ,this performance was very poor and it was only by Crewe’s inability to convert  and it could well have been a heavy loss . Our chances were few and far between without invention. We got sucked into a chasing game , running around without ever controlling possession and the pace of the game . Back four had their work cut as a result of not keep possession long enough!!
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Crewe Alexandra game
Post by: Prez on March 15, 2025, 02:46:09 pm
I know he’s not everyone’s cup of tea, but I thought pk was effective when he came on. He offers options, wants the ball and gets us forward quickly.

PK is criminally under used. Only midfielder we have who can carry the ball and drive forward.
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Crewe Alexandra game
Post by: TonySoprano on March 15, 2025, 02:47:14 pm
I know he’s not everyone’s cup of tea, but I thought pk was effective when he came on. He offers options, wants the ball and gets us forward quickly.

PK is criminally under used. Only midfielder we have who can carry the ball and drive forward.

Kyle hurst is probably even better at it.  :facepalm:
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Crewe Alexandra game
Post by: Chris Black come back on March 15, 2025, 02:49:06 pm
Problem was we had the majority of the possession, which is not good for us. Not good as that is allegedly not our game, and also we don't have midfielders who can do anything with the possession. If we have Gibson, Street and Molyneux, our game is the opposite of having possession. It is long and quick balls out wide.
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Crewe Alexandra game
Post by: steve@dcfd on March 15, 2025, 02:49:30 pm
Best Xi we have got one the left attack as been average all season whether it’s Gibson or Ennis.
Midfield apart from Bailey the others are bang average at best. It’s been our problem all season.
Pace apart from Street we haven’t got any. Ironside and Sharp can only score if they get chances created and we don’t do that and they have to be to feet for them. We had 53% possession 17 shots 3 on target 9 off target 5 blocked 1 woodwork same story each week
We will be lucky to make the playoffs with the games we’ve got left
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Crewe Alexandra game
Post by: Thorney on March 15, 2025, 02:49:49 pm
Having watched the game I would say on that performance we deserve to get promotion in the automatics.His substitutions were so effective and despite my screaming atthe screen he did not listen to me and did show us how much he understands the flow of the game and the individuals in his squad .
couldn’t disagree more. We don’t deserve promotion. We’re given chance after chance after chance to pull away and we’re simply not good enough to do so.
That luck will only last so long. Notts County will eventually overtake us then it’s the lottery of play-offs.
We’ve spaffed away 7 out of the last 9 available alone against sh*te.
His subs were just like every time he’s chasing the game. Very rarely works.
An on individuals, were carrying far too many.

But the subs did work.   :whistle:

And why do we not deserve promotion has much has any other team??? They have has you say spaffed away has many chances has us to pull away.

Notts fans will be saying the same, "we have been given a chance to overtake but keep throwing it away, rovers will eventually pull clear"
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Crewe Alexandra game
Post by: Prez on March 15, 2025, 02:50:06 pm
We can’t look for penalties as a cause for not winning ,this performance was very poor and it was only by Crewe’s inability to convert  and it could well have been a heavy loss . Our chances were few and far between without invention. We got sucked into a chasing game , running around without ever controlling possession and the pace of the game . Back four had their work cut as a result of not keep possession long enough!!

Dont understand that "we cant look for penalties" if its a foul and the ref is competent then its a pen. We dont play "for a penalty". We have had one all season, and also hit the woodwork 20 times.
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Crewe Alexandra game
Post by: Thorney on March 15, 2025, 02:52:15 pm
We can’t look for penalties as a cause for not winning ,this performance was very poor and it was only by Crewe’s inability to convert  and it could well have been a heavy loss . Our chances were few and far between without invention. We got sucked into a chasing game , running around without ever controlling possession and the pace of the game . Back four had their work cut as a result of not keep possession long enough!!

We actually had possesion for longer and had the better chances. But you are well known for finding the negatives in every rovers game. Would imagine if we snuck a winner then you would of kept quiet?
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Crewe Alexandra game
Post by: drfchound on March 15, 2025, 02:52:54 pm
We can’t look for penalties as a cause for not winning ,this performance was very poor and it was only by Crewe’s inability to convert  and it could well have been a heavy loss . Our chances were few and far between without invention. We got sucked into a chasing game , running around without ever controlling possession and the pace of the game . Back four had their work cut as a result of not keep possession long enough!!

Dont understand that "we cant look for penalties" if its a foul and the ref is competent then its a pen. We dont play "for a penalty". We have had one all season, and also hit the woodwork 20 times.

Agreed Prez.
If the defender hadn’t taken Sbarra out then he would possibly have scored the winning goal.
There were a couple of decent handball pen shouts too but for some reason we just don’t get them given.
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Crewe Alexandra game
Post by: Cramby10 on March 15, 2025, 02:54:36 pm
Having watched the game I would say on that performance we deserve to get promotion in the automatics.His substitutions were so effective and despite my screaming atthe screen he did not listen to me and did show us how much he understands the flow of the game and the individuals in his squad .
couldn’t disagree more. We don’t deserve promotion. We’re given chance after chance after chance to pull away and we’re simply not good enough to do so.
That luck will only last so long. Notts County will eventually overtake us then it’s the lottery of play-offs.
We’ve spaffed away 7 out of the last 9 available alone against sh*te.
His subs were just like every time he’s chasing the game. Very rarely works.
An on individuals, were carrying far too many.

But the subs did work.   :whistle:

And why do we not deserve promotion has much has any other team??? They have has you say spaffed away has many chances has us to pull away.

Notts fans will be saying the same, "we have been given a chance to overtake but keep throwing it away, rovers will eventually pull clear"
well we’ll see. We’ve a whole host of top ten sides to play in our run and our record against them suggests we haven’t enough in our locker.
The subs, we scored from a corner.
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Crewe Alexandra game
Post by: Goole Rover on March 15, 2025, 02:59:13 pm
We can’t look for penalties as a cause for not winning ,this performance was very poor and it was only by Crewe’s inability to convert  and it could well have been a heavy loss . Our chances were few and far between without invention. We got sucked into a chasing game , running around without ever controlling possession and the pace of the game . Back four had their work cut as a result of not keep possession long enough!!
If the score had been let’s say 4-0 the ref would have given that one.


Dont understand that "we cant look for penalties" if its a foul and the ref is competent then its a pen. We dont play "for a penalty". We have had one all season, and also hit the woodwork 20 times.

Agreed Prez.
If the defender hadn’t taken Sbarra out then he would possibly have scored the winning goal.
There were a couple of decent handball pen shouts too but for some reason we just don’t get them given.
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Crewe Alexandra game
Post by: andyst79 on March 15, 2025, 03:00:07 pm
Having watched the game I would say on that performance we deserve to get promotion in the automatics.His substitutions were so effective and despite my screaming atthe screen he did not listen to me and did show us how much he understands the flow of the game and the individuals in his squad .

Except it's yet another game where we are poor for more than half.

That's not what promotion sides do.

That's our second point in four and a half months against a side in the top ten on the day we played them.

And worst of all, I'm still seeing no sign that McCann knows what his best XI is.

Apart from probably bradford, what other side in this league are playing better than us?? We maybe dropping points but i havnt seen another team storming the league.

Are any other side playing excellent football for a full 90mins
Just shows we're treading water in a piss poor division
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Crewe Alexandra game
Post by: Thorney on March 15, 2025, 03:00:43 pm
Having watched the game I would say on that performance we deserve to get promotion in the automatics.His substitutions were so effective and despite my screaming atthe screen he did not listen to me and did show us how much he understands the flow of the game and the individuals in his squad .
couldn’t disagree more. We don’t deserve promotion. We’re given chance after chance after chance to pull away and we’re simply not good enough to do so.
That luck will only last so long. Notts County will eventually overtake us then it’s the lottery of play-offs.
We’ve spaffed away 7 out of the last 9 available alone against sh*te.
His subs were just like every time he’s chasing the game. Very rarely works.
An on individuals, were carrying far too many.

But the subs did work.   :whistle:

And why do we not deserve promotion has much has any other team??? They have has you say spaffed away has many chances has us to pull away.

Notts fans will be saying the same, "we have been given a chance to overtake but keep throwing it away, rovers will eventually pull clear"
well we’ll see. We’ve a whole host of top ten sides to play in our run and our record against them suggests we haven’t enough in our locker.
The subs, we scored from a corner.

But the subs helped turn the game in our favour. Crewe were on the back foot and holding on for dear life
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Crewe Alexandra game
Post by: Colemans Left Hook on March 15, 2025, 03:00:59 pm
Carlisle could have 9 more points after three home gains when we play them -i will settle for 7

Wimbledoom will be $hitting themselves today
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Crewe Alexandra game
Post by: Thorney on March 15, 2025, 03:02:47 pm
Having watched the game I would say on that performance we deserve to get promotion in the automatics.His substitutions were so effective and despite my screaming atthe screen he did not listen to me and did show us how much he understands the flow of the game and the individuals in his squad .

Except it's yet another game where we are poor for more than half.

That's not what promotion sides do.

That's our second point in four and a half months against a side in the top ten on the day we played them.

And worst of all, I'm still seeing no sign that McCann knows what his best XI is.

Apart from probably bradford, what other side in this league are playing better than us?? We maybe dropping points but i havnt seen another team storming the league.

Are any other side playing excellent football for a full 90mins
Just shows we're treading water in a piss poor division

Yes but treading higher than all bar 2 teams.and thats all i give a damn about and that is all thats needed. I would say that probably notts and AFC should go above us today but who knows.
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Crewe Alexandra game
Post by: andyst79 on March 15, 2025, 03:04:02 pm
Having watched the game I would say on that performance we deserve to get promotion in the automatics.His substitutions were so effective and despite my screaming atthe screen he did not listen to me and did show us how much he understands the flow of the game and the individuals in his squad .
couldn’t disagree more. We don’t deserve promotion. We’re given chance after chance after chance to pull away and we’re simply not good enough to do so.
That luck will only last so long. Notts County will eventually overtake us then it’s the lottery of play-offs.
We’ve spaffed away 7 out of the last 9 available alone against sh*te.
His subs were just like every time he’s chasing the game. Very rarely works.
An on individuals, were carrying far too many.

But the subs did work.   :whistle:

And why do we not deserve promotion has much has any other team??? They have has you say spaffed away has many chances has us to pull away.

Notts fans will be saying the same, "we have been given a chance to overtake but keep throwing it away, rovers will eventually pull clear"
well we’ll see. We’ve a whole host of top ten sides to play in our run and our record against them suggests we haven’t enough in our locker.
The subs, we scored from a corner.

But the subs helped turn the game in our favour. Crewe were on the back foot and holding on for dear life
.GM got out done tactically again against Bell for me 1st half. He seems to have the measure of us and personally I thought the 2-0 win against them in the playoffs flattered us last season
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Crewe Alexandra game
Post by: Colemans Left Hook on March 15, 2025, 03:04:30 pm
Carlisle could have 9 more points after three home gains when we play them -i will settle for 7

Wimbledoom will be $hitting themselves today

1-0 down    :crying: :crying: :crying: :crying: :crying: :crying:
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Crewe Alexandra game
Post by: Cramby10 on March 15, 2025, 03:04:56 pm
Having watched the game I would say on that performance we deserve to get promotion in the automatics.His substitutions were so effective and despite my screaming atthe screen he did not listen to me and did show us how much he understands the flow of the game and the individuals in his squad .
couldn’t disagree more. We don’t deserve promotion. We’re given chance after chance after chance to pull away and we’re simply not good enough to do so.
That luck will only last so long. Notts County will eventually overtake us then it’s the lottery of play-offs.
We’ve spaffed away 7 out of the last 9 available alone against sh*te.
His subs were just like every time he’s chasing the game. Very rarely works.
An on individuals, were carrying far too many.

But the subs did work.   :whistle:

And why do we not deserve promotion has much has any other team??? They have has you say spaffed away has many chances has us to pull away.

Notts fans will be saying the same, "we have been given a chance to overtake but keep throwing it away, rovers will eventually pull clear"
well we’ll see. We’ve a whole host of top ten sides to play in our run and our record against them suggests we haven’t enough in our locker.
The subs, we scored from a corner.

But the subs helped turn the game in our favour. Crewe were on the back foot and holding on for dear life
they were clearly sat back. You only had to see how they picked up the pace again and threatened our goal once we scored. That said, I think they were piss poor hence the frustration of surrendering points to this garbage. In much the same way as Bromley, Swindon etc
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Crewe Alexandra game
Post by: richtherover on March 15, 2025, 03:05:52 pm
I think we were lucky to come away with a point against a depleted Crewe side. Poor refereeing decisions aside we looked completely toothless up front and shaky at the back whenever they attacked. Results midweek mostly went our way but again we keep failed cash in. Run in is definitely going to be squeaky bum time. It's in our hands but we badly need to put a run together. We won't get away with too many more poor performances. Stating the obvious I know but my nerves are jangling. RTID
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Crewe Alexandra game
Post by: Lesonthewest on March 15, 2025, 03:09:46 pm
Credit to the players & Grant for a better 2nd half, but with 9 to play we can't keep playing like we did in the first half & hope to finish top 3.
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Crewe Alexandra game
Post by: Thorney on March 15, 2025, 03:10:28 pm
Having watched the game I would say on that performance we deserve to get promotion in the automatics.His substitutions were so effective and despite my screaming atthe screen he did not listen to me and did show us how much he understands the flow of the game and the individuals in his squad .
couldn’t disagree more. We don’t deserve promotion. We’re given chance after chance after chance to pull away and we’re simply not good enough to do so.
That luck will only last so long. Notts County will eventually overtake us then it’s the lottery of play-offs.
We’ve spaffed away 7 out of the last 9 available alone against sh*te.
His subs were just like every time he’s chasing the game. Very rarely works.
An on individuals, were carrying far too many.

But the subs did work.   :whistle:

And why do we not deserve promotion has much has any other team??? They have has you say spaffed away has many chances has us to pull away.

Notts fans will be saying the same, "we have been given a chance to overtake but keep throwing it away, rovers will eventually pull clear"
well we’ll see. We’ve a whole host of top ten sides to play in our run and our record against them suggests we haven’t enough in our locker.
The subs, we scored from a corner.

But the subs helped turn the game in our favour. Crewe were on the back foot and holding on for dear life
.GM got out done tactically again against Bell for me 1st half. He seems to have the measure of us and personally I thought the 2-0 win against them in the playoffs flattered us last season

How has he got the measure of us? Both games this season have been 1-1.

Pretty sure he isnt celebrating a draw
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Crewe Alexandra game
Post by: andyst79 on March 15, 2025, 03:12:25 pm
Outplays us for the majority of games with limited resources for starters
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Crewe Alexandra game
Post by: Thorney on March 15, 2025, 03:12:40 pm
Having watched the game I would say on that performance we deserve to get promotion in the automatics.His substitutions were so effective and despite my screaming atthe screen he did not listen to me and did show us how much he understands the flow of the game and the individuals in his squad .
couldn’t disagree more. We don’t deserve promotion. We’re given chance after chance after chance to pull away and we’re simply not good enough to do so.
That luck will only last so long. Notts County will eventually overtake us then it’s the lottery of play-offs.
We’ve spaffed away 7 out of the last 9 available alone against sh*te.
His subs were just like every time he’s chasing the game. Very rarely works.
An on individuals, were carrying far too many.

But the subs did work.   :whistle:

And why do we not deserve promotion has much has any other team??? They have has you say spaffed away has many chances has us to pull away.

Notts fans will be saying the same, "we have been given a chance to overtake but keep throwing it away, rovers will eventually pull clear"
well we’ll see. We’ve a whole host of top ten sides to play in our run and our record against them suggests we haven’t enough in our locker.
The subs, we scored from a corner.

But the subs helped turn the game in our favour. Crewe were on the back foot and holding on for dear life
they were clearly sat back. You only had to see how they picked up the pace again and threatened our goal once we scored. That said, I think they were piss poor hence the frustration of surrendering points to this garbage. In much the same way as Bromley, Swindon etc

They picked up for around 5 mins max and then we got hold of it again and were the only ones looking like getting the winner at the end. They were glad for the final whistle
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Crewe Alexandra game
Post by: Thorney on March 15, 2025, 03:17:24 pm
Outplays us for the majority of games with limited resources for starters

We wasnt spectacular but they didnt really outplay us. Did they really look like putting us to the sword.

Christ if the roles were reversed would you be postive and claim we outplayed them for the majority of the game and outsmarted them even if it was 1-1 and we were clinging on
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Crewe Alexandra game
Post by: Padge_DRFC on March 15, 2025, 03:18:55 pm
He needs to stop playing Clifton. He doesn't actually do anything and it's like watching the kid who hates PE at school when the ball happens to find him. So awkward
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Crewe Alexandra game
Post by: drfchound on March 15, 2025, 03:21:06 pm
We have lots of fans who tend to be glass half empty types.
Yes, we all wanted us to win today but in reality with a very much depleted team we have picked up an away point from a team just below us after being a goal down.Reading some of the comments anyone would think we have blown our promotion chances today.
There are still nine games to go.
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Crewe Alexandra game
Post by: andyst79 on March 15, 2025, 03:28:37 pm
Outplays us for the majority of games with limited resources for starters

We wasnt spectacular but they didnt really outplay us. Did they really look like putting us to the sword.

Christ if the roles were reversed would you be postive and claim we outplayed them for the majority of the game and outsmarted them even if it was 1-1 and we were clinging on
I think our keeper getting man of the match speaks volumes. We got outdone tactically 1st half and weren't in the game. Obviously goals change games and we grew into it once we'd scored and can maybe count ourselves unlucky. However we can't make excuses, that was an experienced back four at this level we had out so you'd expect them to deal better with balls into the box. Sterry's a big miss though from a creative aspect.
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Crewe Alexandra game
Post by: andyst79 on March 15, 2025, 03:31:05 pm
He needs to stop playing Clifton. He doesn't actually do anything and it's like watching the kid who hates PE at school when the ball happens to find him. So awkward
He's utter garbage
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Crewe Alexandra game
Post by: Alan Southstand on March 15, 2025, 03:42:55 pm
Let’s be fair, the midfield just hasn’t worked this season, no matter what combination GM chooses.  Clifton is only one part of it. S’barra was poor last week v Swindon, for example. Part of the problem is that Grant can’t see past the 3 in there and we are outnumbered in that department nearly every week.
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Crewe Alexandra game
Post by: Thorney on March 15, 2025, 03:43:37 pm
Outplays us for the majority of games with limited resources for starters

We wasnt spectacular but they didnt really outplay us. Did they really look like putting us to the sword.

Christ if the roles were reversed would you be postive and claim we outplayed them for the majority of the game and outsmarted them even if it was 1-1 and we were clinging on
I think our keeper getting man of the match speaks volumes. We got outdone tactically 1st half and weren't in the game. Obviously goals change games and we grew into it once we'd scored and can maybe count ourselves unlucky. However we can't make excuses, that was an experienced back four at this level we had out so you'd expect them to deal better with balls into the box. Sterry's a big miss though from a creative aspect.

An experienced back four that has played very little minutes this season.

The saves that TSL made were very routine and nothing that made anyone think "Wow, what a save". Probably would of got slaughtered if any did go in.

Yes it probably needs to be better, but a draw away at a promotion rival who are no mugs at this level is not the disaster that many seem to be thinking.
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Crewe Alexandra game
Post by: Chris Black come back on March 15, 2025, 03:52:26 pm
All of our current midfielders are contracted for next season - Broadbent, Bailey, Clifton, Sbarra, Close and Westbrooke.
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Crewe Alexandra game
Post by: scawsby steve on March 15, 2025, 04:04:30 pm
Outplays us for the majority of games with limited resources for starters

That's incorrect. We played them 4 times last season; we won 2, they won 2. We've drawn twice with them this season.
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Crewe Alexandra game
Post by: pib on March 15, 2025, 04:08:24 pm
Frightening that Westbrooke or Crew can’t get a look in. Something’s obviously gone with ZW. I know he’s not everyone’s cup of tea but we are a bunch of kick-it-anywhere merchants at the minute with that midfield. How does Clifton get so many chances when he offers absolutely sod all and the above two don’t get a look in?

Lucky we stepped it up and got a point in the end but even then, there was very little football played. Clog it up to Ironside and hope he can do something, which this season he mostly can’t.

37 games in and the lack of cohesion and seeming lack of any sort of tactics is astounding. I didn’t leave the game today feeling any better about our chances at all. Bracing myself for play-offs again and another season in this f**king league.
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Crewe Alexandra game
Post by: Chris Black come back on March 15, 2025, 04:10:35 pm
We could still go up and either automatic or play offs would be a mighty achievement. But we've done some questionable business this season and have at no stage looked consistently convincing. We can't always look through the rose tinted ten game winning run glasses but we had then a clear strategy. It feels like we got found out in the second leg last season and we've never really recovered.
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Crewe Alexandra game
Post by: andyst79 on March 15, 2025, 04:14:15 pm
Outplays us for the majority of games with limited resources for starters

We wasnt spectacular but they didnt really outplay us. Did they really look like putting us to the sword.

Christ if the roles were reversed would you be postive and claim we outplayed them for the majority of the game and outsmarted them even if it was 1-1 and we were clinging on
I think our keeper getting man of the match speaks volumes. We got outdone tactically 1st half and weren't in the game. Obviously goals change games and we grew into it once we'd scored and can maybe count ourselves unlucky. However we can't make excuses, that was an experienced back four at this level we had out so you'd expect them to deal better with balls into the box. Sterry's a big miss though from a creative aspect.

An experienced back four that has played very little minutes this season.

The saves that TSL made were very routine and nothing that made anyone think "Wow, what a save". Probably would of got slaughtered if any did go in.

Yes it probably needs to be better, but a draw away at a promotion rival who are no mugs at this level is not the disaster that many seem to be thinking.
Agree a draw on the face of it is a good result, it's the manner of our performances that are concerning .
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Crewe Alexandra game
Post by: DonnyBazR0ver on March 15, 2025, 04:18:11 pm
I get the concern about midfield and our ability to control games yet, our achilles heals are converting the good chances we create. Coupled with those stats mentioned today about us hitting the woodwork more than any other team and only being awarded one penalty all season, suggests we might be a tad unlucky in addition to being wasteful in front of goal.

Plus, the goals conceded column is too high because too often we lose our composure and discipline for periods in games that cost us dear.

These last three games have encapsulated our season where we created enough chances to win six games but conceded soft goals.

There's time yet for our 'luck' to change and tip results the right way.
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Crewe Alexandra game
Post by: Chris Black come back on March 15, 2025, 04:19:38 pm
Amusingly Bradford are losing at home to Tranmere of all sides.
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Crewe Alexandra game
Post by: ncRover on March 15, 2025, 04:21:28 pm
I get the concern about midfield and our ability to control games yet, our achilles heals are converting the good chances we create. Coupled with those stats mentioned today about us hitting the woodwork more than any other team and only being awarded one penalty all season, suggests we might be a tad unlucky in addition to being wasteful in front of goal.

Plus, the goals conceded column is too high because too often we lose our composure and discipline for periods in games that cost us dear.

These last three games have encapsulated our season where we created enough chances to win six games but conceded soft goals.

There's time yet for our 'luck' to change and tip results the right way.

Wimbledon’s goal difference essentially gives them an extra point over us. We aren’t making a 14 goal difference up.
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Crewe Alexandra game
Post by: drfchound on March 15, 2025, 04:25:10 pm
Colchester now into the play off places.
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Crewe Alexandra game
Post by: Chris Black come back on March 15, 2025, 04:26:58 pm
Carlisle have a goal back against AFC Wimbledon.
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Crewe Alexandra game
Post by: Sammy Chung was King on March 15, 2025, 04:30:24 pm
We were playing front to back, missing the midfield out. Even that caused Crewe a few problems here and there. The side is too wide apart, we need someone to get hold of it in midfield we all know that. I would go with the side that finished the game with all three strikers on the pitch. Westbrooke or Crew surely must come into the side?
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Crewe Alexandra game
Post by: Thorney on March 15, 2025, 04:32:02 pm
Chesterfield doing us a favour 1 up on notts
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Crewe Alexandra game
Post by: Chris Black come back on March 15, 2025, 04:32:37 pm
We don't want to involve our midfield. They are there to stop other sides playing. We missed our usual back four playing diagonal balls or running behind our wingers. As a result we had to rely on our midfield to create chances. Hence we were poor.
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Crewe Alexandra game
Post by: scawsby steve on March 15, 2025, 04:33:35 pm
Colchester now into the play off places.

Going like a train, mate; and we've still got to play them again.
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Crewe Alexandra game
Post by: drfchound on March 15, 2025, 04:35:17 pm
We don't want to involve our midfield. They are there to stop other sides playing. We missed our usual back four playing diagonal balls or running behind our wingers. As a result we had to rely on our midfield to create chances. Hence we were poor.

Sterry is being missed the most.
He adds so much to,our attacking play.
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Crewe Alexandra game
Post by: Chris Black come back on March 15, 2025, 04:43:21 pm
Chesterfield doing us a favour 1 up on notts

1-1 now. That wouldn't be the end of the world.
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Crewe Alexandra game
Post by: Filo on March 15, 2025, 04:44:25 pm
A carlisle equaliser would be nice right now
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Crewe Alexandra game
Post by: Colemans Left Hook on March 15, 2025, 04:45:54 pm
Chesterfield doing us a favour 1 up on notts

1-1 now. That wouldn't be the end of the world.
it could have been 0-2  County went up the other end and someone scored his first goal for County 

we need a Carlisle equaliser badly
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Crewe Alexandra game
Post by: Colemans Left Hook on March 15, 2025, 04:48:24 pm
chestwrfield winning
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Crewe Alexandra game
Post by: ncRover on March 15, 2025, 04:52:19 pm
All of our current midfielders are contracted for next season - Broadbent, Bailey, Clifton, Sbarra, Close and Westbrooke.

A concern for me was offering Kyle Hurst a new contract.
He’s having a poor time up in Scotland playing at a worse standard than L2. No goal involvements in 8 games.
Him and Gibson the contracted left wingers leaves no room for another. Neither good enough for L1 as first choice.
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Crewe Alexandra game
Post by: eastender on March 15, 2025, 04:54:38 pm
15 mins injury time at Bradford
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Crewe Alexandra game
Post by: Colemans Left Hook on March 15, 2025, 04:57:18 pm
 i just put £5 on them at 32/1
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Crewe Alexandra game
Post by: Colemans Left Hook on March 15, 2025, 05:02:03 pm
and £1 @ 110/1
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Crewe Alexandra game
Post by: drfchound on March 15, 2025, 05:02:39 pm
15 mins injury time at Bradford

Seems like they will play in until Bradford score.
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Crewe Alexandra game
Post by: Filo on March 15, 2025, 05:03:08 pm
15 mins injury time at Bradford

Seems like they will play in until Bradford score.

15 minutes of added time
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Crewe Alexandra game
Post by: ravenrover on March 15, 2025, 05:03:16 pm
Them? Who?
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Crewe Alexandra game
Post by: Colemans Left Hook on March 15, 2025, 05:07:10 pm
 bradford

no matter who wins the league i make a big profit

Title: Re: Let's talk about the Crewe Alexandra game
Post by: Filo on March 15, 2025, 05:08:24 pm
Now into 17th minute
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Crewe Alexandra game
Post by: Colemans Left Hook on March 15, 2025, 05:08:36 pm
bradford lost which is fine
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Crewe Alexandra game
Post by: drfchound on March 15, 2025, 05:10:23 pm
Todays results not too bad for us in the end then.
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Crewe Alexandra game
Post by: Colemans Left Hook on March 15, 2025, 05:11:35 pm
this league reminds me of a dads army sketch when someone asks for a volunteer  and everyone but one takes a step back

now all the teams are doing ( not winning) that so Walsall stop top AT THE MOMENT bewar of Port Vale
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Crewe Alexandra game
Post by: ravenrover on March 15, 2025, 07:51:23 pm
Beware Colchester
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Crewe Alexandra game
Post by: DRFCSouth on March 15, 2025, 08:10:45 pm
What happened down the front today when we scored? Right commotion going on. Stewards holding onto fans & one of ours dragged away?
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Crewe Alexandra game
Post by: ForsolongaRover on March 15, 2025, 08:34:36 pm
We don't want to involve our midfield. They are there to stop other sides playing. We missed our usual back four playing diagonal balls or running behind our wingers. As a result we had to rely on our midfield to create chances. Hence we were poor.

Sterry is being missed the most.
He adds so much to,our attacking play.

I made this point on Lucky Pint. Perhaps there is more room out on the wing, but of the midfielders only Bailey has the confidence skill and imagination that Sterry shows game after game. If Sterry has L1 quality where does that put those who started in the midfield today? Bailey apart, none of them shows what we get from Kelly who I know makes mistakes, but midfielders surely have to take risks. We also lacked cohesion up the left side; Gibson is better with Maxwell behind him.
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Crewe Alexandra game
Post by: donnyguy on March 15, 2025, 08:55:41 pm
15 mins injury time at Bradford
It was a medical emergency in crowd.
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Crewe Alexandra game
Post by: Pancho Regan on March 15, 2025, 09:52:04 pm
I wish we could have brought Kyle Hurst on today.

I’ve been really patient regarding Gibson but he’s just not good enough I’m afraid. Dreadful today.
Same with Ennis. His loan hasn’t worked at all.
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Crewe Alexandra game
Post by: drfchound on March 15, 2025, 09:53:57 pm
I have said recently that I thought Gibson had been improving but today he fell back again.
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Crewe Alexandra game
Post by: roversdude on March 15, 2025, 10:04:56 pm
Don’t think the pitch helped Gibson today (although a professional footballer should be able to play on anything)
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Crewe Alexandra game
Post by: Colemans Left Hook on March 15, 2025, 10:46:18 pm
I wish we could have brought Kyle Hurst on today.

I’ve been really patient regarding Gibson but he’s just not good enough I’m afraid. Dreadful today.
Same with Ennis. His loan hasn’t worked at all.

err Ennis wasn't dreadful today - he was a breath iof fresh air   ---  he almost scored the winner as the defender threw himself to deflect the ball to hit the post -

Title: Re: Let's talk about the Crewe Alexandra game
Post by: DonnyBazR0ver on March 15, 2025, 11:18:33 pm
Really hard to judge Ennis on the limited time he's had being kept out by Gibson who's being given the benefit of doubt and has been clinging on by a thread, hoping he'll deliver the goods. Maybe today might  convince McCann to give Ennis more of a chance.
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Crewe Alexandra game
Post by: Bills view on March 16, 2025, 07:39:56 am
Ennis was unlucky with the deflected shot but our attacking players must do more to impact the game. I've not been convinced by him.

Moly is V. Good but we don't see enough of the others.

You would think they would be desperate to impress to get in the starting line up.

It's a shop window for loanees to showcase their ability and the forwards are mainly judged by goals scored, chances created or by vtal contributions to moves.
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Crewe Alexandra game
Post by: Padge_DRFC on March 16, 2025, 08:10:19 am
Easy to look good in a stretched game 80 minutes in. Ennis isn't an improvement on Hurst. Neither are good enough for promotion.

Kelly is the obvious choice to play. If playing with Broadbent and Bailey we can afford him to play and take risks and do what the other midfielders cannot do.
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Crewe Alexandra game
Post by: GazLaz on March 16, 2025, 08:12:52 am
Easy to look good in a stretched game 80 minutes in. Ennis isn't an improvement on Hurst. Neither are good enough for promotion.

Kelly is the obvious choice to play. If playing with Broadbent and Bailey we can afford him to play and take risks and do what the other midfielders cannot do.

The way Kelly can travel with the ball adds something different centrally. You could make a fairly strong case that out of our 7 central midfielders Clifton and Broadbent are the worst two.
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Crewe Alexandra game
Post by: Alan Southstand on March 16, 2025, 08:20:12 am
Quote
The way Kelly can travel with the ball adds something different centrally.

That’s put the Indian sign on him - you just know he’ll get crocked on International duty!
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Crewe Alexandra game
Post by: andysly on March 16, 2025, 08:52:30 am
I still believe in Gibson, he’s got the ability to be a decent player for us but his confidence is shot.
I found myself feeling sorry for the lad yesterday, all of us that have played will have experienced games/periods when nothing goes your way, the best thing for him at the moment would be a knock in training that keeps him out the way for a few weeks.
GMc dropping him out would just drain any remaining confidence from him.
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Crewe Alexandra game
Post by: mushRTID on March 16, 2025, 08:57:02 am
About Gibsons confidence.
How much more does the team need to suffer while we wait for it to improve?

He scored a belter on his debut.
A short while after in an interview he said he was playing in his best/favourite position.
That first half at Grimsby…wow. It couldn’t get any better and the fans sang his name all day and at the end.
His manager constantly picks him and has said in public he’s one of the best wingers in the league.

All this while playing in a side near the top of division.

If these things aren’t going to improve his confidence, how long exactly are we meant to wait?
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Crewe Alexandra game
Post by: andysly on March 16, 2025, 09:01:21 am
Confidence, comes and goes, he’s trying too hard and making it worse.
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Crewe Alexandra game
Post by: Padge_DRFC on March 16, 2025, 09:22:37 am
This attitude thing of Gibson seems nonsense. I don't see a lad not trying at all. Yesterday Crewe knew he was a threat and had 3 round him many a time. Big compliment from Crewe yesterday to him. Marked him out the game. Possibly why he was taken off.
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Crewe Alexandra game
Post by: DonnyOsmond on March 16, 2025, 09:35:06 am
This attitude thing of Gibson seems nonsense. I don't see a lad not trying at all. Yesterday Crewe knew he was a threat and had 3 round him many a time. Big compliment from Crewe yesterday to him. Marked him out the game. Possibly why he was taken off.

Is the left back not getting up enough to free him up when Senior's playing instead of Maxwell?
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Crewe Alexandra game
Post by: selby on March 16, 2025, 09:38:38 am
  Whoever plays on the left out wide all season has had poor players behind him to feed off, defensively poor down that side as well as poor creatively.  Maxwell offers something going forward but defensively is just average, and there is a lack of pace compared with Sterry and Molyneux on the other flank.
  That's why we leek goals with players hitting the bye line and pulling it back into the six yard area, and teams in most cases attack more down that side where we are a soft touch and have been all season lacking pace to recover compared with the right flank with Olowu.
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Crewe Alexandra game
Post by: GazLaz on March 16, 2025, 11:41:22 am
This attitude thing of Gibson seems nonsense. I don't see a lad not trying at all. Yesterday Crewe knew he was a threat and had 3 round him many a time. Big compliment from Crewe yesterday to him. Marked him out the game. Possibly why he was taken off.

People basing his performance on he’s slip. It looked comical. He was poor but so was everyone else. Would have looked better in the second half, like everyone else did, had he been on after the mass changes.
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Crewe Alexandra game
Post by: Pancho Regan on March 16, 2025, 05:38:26 pm
About Gibsons confidence.
How much more does the team need to suffer while we wait for it to improve?

He scored a belter on his debut.
A short while after in an interview he said he was playing in his best/favourite position.
That first half at Grimsby…wow. It couldn’t get any better and the fans sang his name all day and at the end.
His manager constantly picks him and has said in public he’s one of the best wingers in the league.

All this while playing in a side near the top of division.

If these things aren’t going to improve his confidence, how long exactly are we meant to wait?

Good points there mushRTID.

I like to think I’m one of the more positive voices and I’ve been willing Gibson to do well.
He definitely has the ability but he just shows it too infrequently. This is exactly what my Bradford City- supporting neighbour warned me about.

Yesterday, my patience ran out. Gibson was very ineffective and worse than that, he gave the ball away a couple of times which allowed Crewe to turn the ball over and put us under pressure.
His stumble over the ball whilst driving forward …. I wouldn’t want to criticise a player for something like that but it just about summed up his day.

I hope he proves me wrong in the next few games and restores my faith in him, because we’re going to need every player being on his ‘A game’ between now and the end of the season.



He has it, no doubt.
But showing it once in ten games isn’t enough.

Title: Re: Let's talk about the Crewe Alexandra game
Post by: BillyStubbsTears on March 16, 2025, 06:13:52 pm
Interesting how folk seem to think there's no pace on the left. I'd be fascinated to see the stats because to these eyes, Senior looks by some way the quickest player in the squad over 30 yards.
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Crewe Alexandra game
Post by: GazLaz on March 16, 2025, 06:58:19 pm
Interesting how folk seem to think there's no pace on the left. I'd be fascinated to see the stats because to these eyes, Senior looks by some way the quickest player in the squad over 30 yards.

Wouldn’t beat Street and Olowu would he?
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Crewe Alexandra game
Post by: ncRover on March 16, 2025, 06:59:04 pm
Interesting how folk seem to think there's no pace on the left. I'd be fascinated to see the stats because to these eyes, Senior looks by some way the quickest player in the squad over 30 yards.

Senior is much quicker than people give him credit for but I’d say over 30 yards that Patrick Kelly would be the quickest

Top speed Street and Olowu
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Crewe Alexandra game
Post by: selby on March 16, 2025, 07:28:18 pm
This season Olowu, the lad from Bristol City without the ball, Faulkner, Molineux, Street don't know but quick, Long distance Faulkner, Flint, Brown. Flint also quick in sprint tests.
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Crewe Alexandra game
Post by: drfchound on March 16, 2025, 07:34:02 pm
I still believe in Gibson, he’s got the ability to be a decent player for us but his confidence is shot.
I found myself feeling sorry for the lad yesterday, all of us that have played will have experienced games/periods when nothing goes your way, the best thing for him at the moment would be a knock in training that keeps him out the way for a few weeks.
GMc dropping him out would just drain any remaining confidence from him.

I agree with most of that Andy.
I have been saying for a few weeks that he looked as though his confidence was growing and that he just needs a goal.
Yesterday though I don’t think he was anywhere near where he has been recently.
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Crewe Alexandra game
Post by: Pancho Regan on March 16, 2025, 07:45:59 pm
This season Olowu, the lad from Bristol City without the ball, Faulkner, Molineux, Street don't know but quick, Long distance Faulkner, Flint, Brown. Flint also quick in sprint tests.

Could you translate for those of us who only speak English?

Title: Re: Let's talk about the Crewe Alexandra game
Post by: selby on March 18, 2025, 10:25:05 am
  Just the order of speed and long distance tests this season Pancho, and quite easy to see in games.
Title: Re: Let's talk about the Crewe Alexandra game
Post by: Colemans Left Hook on April 12, 2025, 01:55:35 am
this league reminds me of a dads army sketch when someone asks for a volunteer  and everyone but one takes a step back

now all the teams are doing ( not winning) that so Walsall stop top AT THE MOMENT bewar of Port Vale

well i did warn you all about P Vale on March 15th after they had beaten MK and they were still out with the washing regarding their title chances - since then they won 4 out of 5 and got robbed of that penalty to equalise against Barrow  -  they were 50/1 before the MK game - thank you very much -

So who do I think will win this league ? My answer will shock you - it goes totally against all i have been saying since early January   - they have tightened the slipped saddle up and now have an extremely easy run in -now Crewe have blown it (last match)- 

They had a chance to go 3-1 up against PV but the goalie stuck his hand up high to prevent a goal - on watching it on the highlights i felt sure the Walsall striker would score even though I knew he didn't. Walsall are getting their injured players back - they could win the title by 2 or 3 points
Jayden Stockley for PV only came back from injury fairly recently and has made a big difference  & BRADFORD'S STAR MAN IS OUT FOR THE SEASON

Luck plays a big part in clubs destinies -  for example that fake penalty the ref gave Wednesday for their opener in that Lazarus 4-0 win over peterbrew the other year

I watched the first half of Notts v Salford - Salford looked lively - then on the stroke of half time they got a fluke pinball wizard goal when the ball was TWICE deflected off County defenders - the press simply said it was a deflection - it would have made a "what happened next" on a Question of sport.   

Probably inspired by their very very lucky break on the highlights they seemed to overrun County in the second half  - which doesn't look good for us on Tuesday night.    Ironically I had backed Salford at 400/1 or was it 500/1 for the title after they hammered County 3-0 as they won 6 in a row  and I did the can Salford finish 2nd thread


Sat 15 Mar   H   Milton Keynes Dons   League Two   (1)3 - 0(0)   6,773   Tolaj, Stockley, Garrity
Sat 22 Mar   H   Morecambe   League Two   (0)1 - 0(0)   7,038   Curtis
Tue 25 Mar   H   Barrow   League Two   (0)0 - 1(1)   5,894   
Sat 29 Mar   A   Crewe Alexandra   League Two   (0)1 - 0(0)   8,365   Stockley
Tue 1 Apr   H   Bradford City   League Two   (2)2 - 0(0)   8,659   Tolaj, Clark
Sat 5 Apr   A   Walsall   League Two   (3)3 - 2(2)   8,446   Tolaj (2, 1 pen), Garrity