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West Bromwich Albion v Sheffield United
Wednesday 18th August 2021 20.00pm
Please use this board for all your After Match Debate. Away fans are reminded to abide by the site rules.
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West Bromwich Albion v Sheffield United
Wednesday 18th August 2021 20.00pm
Please use this board for all your In Game Chat. Opposition fans are reminded to abide by the site rules
Please keep this board Albion related, there are boards elsewhere in General Sports to discuss other games
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West Bromwich Albion v Sheffield United
Wednesday 18th August 2021 20.00pm
For Ticket Info please check -
https://www.wba.co.uk/match-tickets
Please use this board for all your In Game Chat. Opposition fans are reminded to abide by the site rules
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Referee: Matthew Donohue
Assistant Referee: Richard Wild
Assistant Referee: Steven Meredith
Fourth Official: John Busby
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I am sure that they will be a bostin set of officials
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I know it’s early, but putting six points between us and Sheffield United, even this early will be pretty big, especially when you compare both sides first three games. At
We are likely to lose somewhere between 7 and 13 games, a two win / two defeat swing can be done quickly in the championship but when your towards the top of a table and the better teams are only losing 1 in 4 it’s still meaningful.
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They’ve not looked great so far, hopefully a good time to be playing them.
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They’ve not looked great so far, hopefully a good time to be playing them.
Yep, not impressed with them at all. Hopefully we can put them under the cosh and get the 3 points.
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Sheff Utd havent scored a goal yet. You know what's coming dont you? This is Albion after all!
We all know about Oli Burke, poor as he is his speed could cause us a problem defending such a high line.
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Same team as started yesterday such is our lack of options - we really do need a central midfielder to provide some support to Mowatt and Livermore
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Wasn’t this the referee who had the horror show against charlton in a 2-2 draw up here?
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Same team as started yesterday such is our lack of options - we really do need a central midfielder to provide some support to Mowatt and Livermore
Hopefully Castro will at least make the bench on Wednesday
Also think Tulloch may get the nod over Zohore. No way will VI tolerate performances like the one he put in yesterday. He will get a rocket up his arris this week but he won't get many more chances.
Obviously, I would like to see a CF and CM signed but, in an ideal world, it would be even better to see these kids come good.
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Snodgrass will be back soon. That's another option in CM.
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Snodgrass will be back soon. That's another option in CM.
Snodgrass is a tidy player on the ball and no one could doubt his application and work rate but I had wondered if he would be ok with the intensity but VI has said his running stats are up there with anyone apparently
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Snodgrass is a tidy player on the ball and no one could doubt his application and work rate but I had wondered if he would be ok with the intensity but VI has said his running stats are up there with anyone apparently
I think he can run for days, despite his age and before his injury with us he was doing very well. As for Castro, apparently he's not back until mid September so don't expect to see him for a while.
I reckon we will play the same 11, maybe Phillips in for Diangana but I doubt it.
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At risk of sounding like Captain Obvious, you've got to say even at this stage this game could be hugely important moving forward, as we've gotta see sheffield united as a genuine threat for promotion. Getting 3 points and denying them could really do us a favour.
Personally, i'd say we've got to stick with the same 11 that started yesterday (Bar any knocks) but it will be a tough and i would say tight game, maybe decided by 1 goal much like last season? We'll see.
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Snodgrass is a tidy player on the ball and no one could doubt his application and work rate but I had wondered if he would be ok with the intensity but VI has said his running stats are up there with anyone apparently
Will be invaluable in this set up. We need impact players, whether starting or coming on last 20.
Should not under-estimate his quality at this level!
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Will be invaluable in this set up. We need impact players, whether starting or coming on last 20.
Should not under-estimate his quality at this level!
I don't. A wise head who can still play is very valuable. My comment was more that i was surprised he could maintain the intensity still.
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I don't. A wise head who can still play is very valuable. My comment was more that i was surprised he could maintain the intensity still.
I was sort of agreeing with you mate, sorry if it came across wrong.
90 mins will be few and far between, due to his age and injuries, but, his quality and experience will definitely play a part, if, we can keep him fit enough.
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I was sort of agreeing with you mate, sorry if it came across wrong.
90 mins will be few and far between, due to his age and injuries, but, his quality and experience will definitely play a part, if, we can keep him fit enough.
No worries i dont take anything on here personally, it's easy for things to come across wrong on the net, done it myself a few times. I think he will be a big asset. We missed him in the PL once he went out the squad IMO
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Monday evening ticket update (approx, due to counting errors):
Smethwick 11
Halfords 533
Brummie 1229
East Stand 1226
Remaining: 2,999
Est home sales to date 20,600.
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This ref is awful even by EFL standards. Sent off Diangana for Fergsuon foul intiially didn't he? Then he had to be told to get it right.
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This ref is awful even by EFL standards. Sent off Diangana for Fergsuon foul intiially didn't he? Then he had to be told to get it right.
and don't forget the dodgy pen he gave them right at the end. I'm sure their player bundled into Ajayi and he gave them the foul.
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Still remember the look on his face whilst brandishing the red card to Nathan Ferguson. Horrible little snide of a ref' from memory. And despite a couple of unusual post match comments to the contrary that should NEVER have been a penalty against Ajayi. It should have been a free kick in his favour.
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.......Remaining: 2,999
Est home sales to date 20,600.
And I wonder how many of those remaining tickets will still be in the post come match day. Talking of match day, whomever our three selected central defenders are, they and Johnstone will need to be very aware of balls over the top for Brewster and Burke should they get minutes.
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If I was Tulloch, I would be knocking VI's door to get ahead of concrete Ken.
We've talked about this kid for a while now and I just think Zohore's no-show on Saturday could be his breakthrough. If he does get the chance I just hope he gives it 100% and leaves nothing out there (although around about 37% would be enough to beat Ken's contribution!) I know he's not an out and out CF but I would still rather him off the bench.
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This bloke is an absolutely incompetent numpty. AND it's on telly! I fear the worst :'(
Anyone sitting in the first 3 rows beware, you might get a booking!
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Jokanovich has said Ben Davies is going straight into their squad for tommorow.
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I'm quite looking forward to it. My first game of the season - missed Luton because I was having my 2nd covid jab.
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Sheff Utd may not have scored yet but they have a stronger squad than we do in many ways. Conversely we have conceded two goals a game, which is shambolic. I am nervous about this one. I would fancy any side that can defend well against us and is physical / well organised as we ship goals for fun.
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Sheff Utd may not have scored yet but they have a stronger squad than we do in many ways. Conversely we have conceded two goals a game, which is shambolic. I am nervous about this one. I would fancy any side that can defend well against us and is physical / well organised as we ship goals for fun.
Agreed. I fear they will actually smash us in a manner they should of last year at home in the most one sided game ever. Not sure we are anywhere near as good as one or two people think we are.
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Our running won't wear them out the way it has other teams that's for sure.
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Sheff Utd may not have scored yet but they have a stronger squad than we do in many ways. Conversely we have conceded two goals a game, which is shambolic. I am nervous about this one. I would fancy any side that can defend well against us and is physical / well organised as we ship goals for fun.
I am quite heartened that we've scored 5 times in 2 games with an attack that many say looks too lightweight. I would far rather we had a problem giving sloppy goals away than one finding the net. Its much easier to tighten up a defence than to get forwards to score.
However, I still think the squad depth is too shallow as we will get injuries etc, not to mention squad rotation is part of the plan.
Sheff Utd will give us an early look at how we compare against one of our main rivals this season.
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Sam Johnstone v Aaron Ramsdale
Sam surely hoping to prove his worth over Ramsdale and leapfrog to Arsenal...
Will there be a nice reception for Ramsdale with him being an Albion Fan?
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Sam Johnstone v Aaron Ramsdale
Sam surely hoping to prove his worth over Ramsdale and leapfrog to Arsenal...
Will there be a nice reception for Ramsdale with him being an Albion Fan?
:D One thing is for sure the Arsenal scouts will be at the game to compare the 2 Keepers on view.Might make SJ up his game somewhat to show Arsenal they should be getting him...England England number 2.
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they cant score we leake goals 2-2
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Firts big test game of the season against what will be a promotion contenders.
2-1 Albion though.
Be nice to see a clean sheet but im not sure the tactics we deploy will see many clean sheets
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Firts big test game of the season against what will be a promotion contenders.
2-1 Albion though.
Be nice to see a clean sheet but im not sure the tactics we deploy will see many clean sheets
After Ismael's arrival at Barnsley they kept 13 clean sheets in 39 league games so a 1 in 3 rate.
We kept 15 in 2019/20 in 46 league games so again a 1 in 3.
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Don't fancy us tonight.
They don't score many, but don't let many in either. They also owe us an absolute hammering after the game last season I feel.
0-2 them.
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Might fancy a bit of pre match food/drunk if I can get up there early tonight.
Not been to the Vine/Sportsman for a few years now so did anyone try them on Saturday.
What were they like in these COVID times ?
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Might fancy a bit of pre match food/drunk if I can get up there early tonight.
Not been to the Vine/Sportsman for a few years now so did anyone try them on Saturday.
What were they like in these COVID times ?
I am a pre-match regular at the Sportsman,arrived 1 pm , no exageration 6 deep at the bar, and the place (in my humble opinion) dangerously rammed given Covid and emergency exit scenarios.
yow could'nt shift in theer. I left hungry, thirsty, and drunk off, but at least I felt safe.
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I am a pre-match regular at the Sportsman,arrived 1 pm , no exageration 6 deep at the bar, and the place (in my humble opinion) dangerously rammed given Covid and emergency exit scenarios.
yow could'nt shift in theer. I left hungry, thirsty, and **** off, but at least I felt safe.
The vine was pretty much the same too
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Don't fancy us tonight.
They don't score many, but don't let many in either. They also owe us an absolute hammering after the game last season I feel.
0-2 them.
Same I think they have the quality to bypass our press and their cb’s will win 90% of the aerial balls played into Robinson. I think this is the game where it will be obviously clear we need a battering ram upfront who can win the 50/50’s & bring others into play.
Brewster still hasn’t scored for them either, it would be the most Albion thing for him to bag a hatrick against us tonight.
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Same I think they have the quality to bypass our press and their cb’s will win 90% of the aerial balls played into Robinson. I think this is the game where it will be obviously clear we need a battering ram upfront who can win the 50/50’s & bring others into play.
Brewster still hasn’t scored for them either, it would be the most Albion thing for him to bag a hatrick against us tonight.
blimey, where is the optimism ? We have played 2 games so far !
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they've signed Ben Davies on loan from Liverpool
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Don’t bother with the sportsman before the game now as just too rammed and struggle to get a beer. Just go in there afterwards.
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Might fancy a bit of pre match food/drunk if I can get up there early tonight.
Not been to the Vine/Sportsman for a few years now so did anyone try them on Saturday.
What were they like in these COVID times ?
Sportsman was back to normal with an added bar out the back.
I tend to avoid it on a saturday as it gets rammed - but it should be okay on a midweek providing you get there early enough.
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I am a pre-match regular at the Sportsman,arrived 1 pm , no exageration 6 deep at the bar, and the place (in my humble opinion) dangerously rammed given Covid and emergency exit scenarios.
yow could'nt shift in theer. I left hungry, thirsty, and **** off, but at least I felt safe.
Sounds like normal. Brilliant news!!
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I'd say bham is a much better shout pre match, i know it means relying on public transport to get to the ground but the jewellery quarter is one stop away by train or maybe 3/4 by tram, eitherway, not horrendous and avoids the rammed pubs around the ground, which is not appealing given the circumstances.
Back to the game, i think we'll draw tonight. There were worrying signs on saturday and i'd be surprised if we got the 3 points given the close proximity of the games, but its the same for them. 0-0 or 1-1 for me.
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I get neither the negativity towards us or the hype around them. They've played Swansea, who are awful, and Blues. 0 goals, 1 point, yet some have them as world beaters ??? ::)
2-0
COYB
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I get neither the negativity towards us or the hype around them. They've played Swansea, who are awful, and Blues. 0 goals, 1 point, yet some have them as world beaters ??? ::)
2-0
COYB
Someone will probably be along in a minute to tell you it's all about opinions, so I won't ;D .
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Possibly a good time to play them. Still suffering from their prolonged lack of form since March 2020, while Jokanovic is still getting them used to his system. I expect the likes of Brewster and McBurnie will come good but while they are still finding their feet, we might be able to keep them out.
With their Ramsdale money, I expect they will be able to keep Berge and if they add Diallo to the Pearson signing then I expect they will be top 2, but tonight they are still weakened so we could get something.
I'm not overly confident though looking at our squad. Nothing to bring off the bench after 70 minutes.
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I get neither the negativity towards us or the hype around them. They've played Swansea, who are awful, and Blues. 0 goals, 1 point, yet some have them as world beaters ??? ::)
2-0
COYB
Years of experience. We are the ultimate charity club. On a poor run, strikers haven't scored in a while, need a win, roll up, roll up to the Hawthorns.
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Fully expect the same 11 as the weekend, unless Clarke is injured. Can’t see much change on the bench either with Castro, Snodgrass and a few others all playing reserve football Monday.
I hope Ismael decides to try Tulloch instead of Zohore from the bench this time as Zohore is unlikely to make the grade while Tulloch could always surprise. It would also be nice to see Adam Reach come on rather than a central defender, just so we can see what he is about.
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Ramsdale out.
"David Ornstein
@David_Ornstein
Arsenal on verge of agreement with Sheff Utd to sign Aaron Ramsdale. £24m + £6m in add-ons (only likely to apply if/when 23yo is established 1st choice). #SHU initially wanted £40m. Proposed deal 4yrs + 1 option. Not in squad vs #WBA"
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Team news is out
Unchanged as expected, Castro on bench, Zohore out.
Edit - Burke and Davies on bench for them
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Obviously VI wasn’t impressed with Zohore on Saturday as we weren’t.
Doubt if he will get game time but good to see ‘Fidel’ Castro get on the bench. 🤪
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Strangely Jokanovic has taken all the pace out of his forward line and Ramsdale not available due to impending transfer to Arsenal.
Fancy us strongly now.
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Ramsdale transfer to Arsenal agreed
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Ramsdale transfer to Arsenal agreed
24 million, but no one wants your mate for 8 million :-X
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24 million, but no one wants your mate for 8 million :-X
Hallelujah, ‘Super’ Sam is staying!
🥳
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Ex player Keith Townsend on Sky is very pro-West Brom.
He’s a good guy!
🤙
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Zohore out of the squad. What a message from Ismael. Tulloch, Reach or Castro likely making a league debut tonight.
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C’mon you Baggies!
😁
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Hallelujah, ‘Super’ Sam is staying!
🥳
OH JOY OF JOYS! :'(
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We're away
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Goal but offside.
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Brilliant goal saving block by Robbo :(
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Way offside.
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It was going in and counted if Robinson had left it alone!
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2nd one disallowed.
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Can already tell this ref is s***
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2nd one disallowed.
Never a foul but Robinson well offside again.
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Never a foul but Robinson well offside again.
Yup
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Bartley screws it again!
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O'Shea did well.
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This is **** poor.
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Diangana looking sharper
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We have a corner.
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Got 1. 1-0
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Get in.
Dreadful to watch this but very effective.
OG.
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Looking forward to O.G. top scorer this season
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Calamity Kyle.
McGoldrick misses sitter.
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Phew. Just survived
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It’s some weapon this Furlong long throw!
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It’s some weapon this Furlong long throw!
Glad it is in armoury. Ii used to dread watching Delap against us.
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Townsend caught out of position again.
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Where was Townsend
It should be 1-1 thanks to Townsend mistake yet again.
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Corner to them
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Had a Horror Show so far
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Referee again not helping another OG helped us
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Not pretty to watch at the min.
Still getting used to the system though and it will get better hopefully
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This system doesn't hide Livermore's numerous deficiencies does it?
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It was Bartley again
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2nd corner. Can we do something this time?
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The ref is absolutely useless.
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This system doesn't hide Livermore's numerous deficiencies does it?
Had a great game against Luton. The bloke can't win can he really? You want him to be brilliant every game? He wouldn't be with us if he did that.
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Got to score that.
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Bartley missed.
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Basically unchallenged too.
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Had a great game against Luton. The bloke can't win can he really? You want him to be brilliant every game? He wouldn't be with us if he did that.
I want him to trap the ball and pass it to a navy shirt. Not much to ask for a central midfielder.
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Livermore has been useless. Sub him at halftime
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Kalamity Kyle nearly does it again!
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We should have had free kick. Ref says no. Rubbish ref.
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1 minute added.
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HT 1-0
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Class and guile very much missing. Pereira type killer pass nowhere to be seen.
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Dingle Don is at it again, isn't he?
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It’s a hard watch isn’t it. Hopefully it gets better and we can actually find a way to pass to each other without hoof ball.
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Not great to watch but we’re ahead. Bartley looks very shaky and Livermore just useless.
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Bartley has been shocking he will cost us!
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Bartley looks like hes got one in him tonight. Hopefully not.
If they bring their quicker strikers on i worry with our back 3.
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Not really sure what to make of it all really. We're ahead, we’re relatively comfortable, but I'm left with the nagging doubt too many of these aren't remotely suited to what we're trying to do and they're all either in the spine of the team or the important wingback role.
Mowatt looks a Rolls Royce compared to Livermore's Lada. Bartley is all over the place while the other 2 are comfortable. Townsend looks lost while Furlong looks completely accomplished.
Of the forward 3 none of them can play through the middle. Diangana the best of the 3 tonight and you can see he has that extra bit of quality on the ball.
Work to do in the market and on the training pitch.
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Bartley is so poor. He seems to make so many simple mistakes that not even players at Sunday League level would make.
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Once Mowat got into game we had a little bit of control, Livermore and Bartley our weakest links. Should be 2 up not sure what the ref saw for second disallowed goal
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Not a great deal of passing being done.
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Well we got away with once a game Bartley blunder
Can we please sign a midfielder who will put his foot on the ball rather than the big oaf still stealing a living
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Once Mowat got into game we had a little bit of control, Livermore and Bartley our weakest links. Should be 2 up not sure what the ref saw for second disallowed goal
Robinson was offside anyway.
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Bartley just does not suit this system at all in my opinion.
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Clarke and Mowatt both looking like decent signings.
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Early days but not convinced by ‘the philosophy’. Hopefully things will improve. Crowd seemed to get flat which after lockdown must mean that it really is an uninspiring first half. Hopefully things will improve.
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Sheffield have the second most expensive squad behind Fulham in the division. They are showing us a hell of a lot of respect by packing the midfield. It’s hard to play against - I would gladly take the three points against one of the better sides we will face this season.
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Got to beat 12 yet again. No silky skills on show from us but if the **** in charge gets the decisions right we would be well in charge with them a man down for the hand to face from the bloke with is ed on upside down who missed the sitter. (not going to dignify him with a name.|
Bartley not looking comfortable but being fouled by both their thugs in turn. The reverse backside-first foul challenge under a player just jumping for the ball is Sheffields most effective tactic so far.
The crowd has gone flat and took the football with it. Other way around possible but we as supporters can't do much about that. COY F B
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2-0 O'Shea.
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Dara. Another set piece.
🙈 It's woeful really but I'll take it.
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Get in O'Shea!
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BOOM BOOM
2-Nil
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This place would completely explode if we conceded a goal like that :-X ;D
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Bloody love Dara!
He’s a tough young lad and he’s developing into a decent player
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Mowat !!! 3-0
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3-0 great move that
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Now that's a good goal Mowatt with a superb finish. Good assist for Grant.
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3-Nil
Mowatt.
Loving the passion and energy in this side
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Can we hang onto that 3-0?
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Great challenge by Livermore to win it back there
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Great pereira type pass by Grant 🥳
Open play as well !!!
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It’s one of those nights where we are turning our dominance into goals. Keep ‘em coming
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What I do like (aside from the results) is that it doesn't stop at 3 nil. We keep coming.
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Diangana coming off for Phillkips
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I've got fat fingers, tonight.
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Will Sheff U, come in for Sam?
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Diangana didn’t look too happy about being substituted. He wasn’t having a bad game.
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Burke and McBurnie on. Burkes a garbage football player but he might have some joy with all that space in behind.
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4-0 Robinson.
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4 nil. Robbo.
Long throw.
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4-0
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Absolutely destroying them
They can’t stand the physicality and energy
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4 0 Robbo
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What was I saying about Furlong’s long throw !!!
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Honestly these throw-ins. They work.
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Should have been ruled offside, but hey ho. :P
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On second look, likely onside.
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What I do like (aside from the results) is that it doesn't stop at 3 nil. We keep coming.
We do keep coming.
We swarm them
It hasn’t looked pretty at times but jees this is effective
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4 nil but according to a few on here we ain't very good! Half our players am rubbish.
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Gee whizz. Livermore just failed to complete a 2 yard pass to Robinson. >:(
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4 nil but according to a few on here we ain't very good! Half our players am rubbish.
Just coping mechanisms for the inevitable 0-1 shut down at Peterborough or somewhere ;D
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I like aesthetically pleasing football but I have to say winning football with lots of goals is a preference ;)
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Super Sam is coming off his line very well as a sweeper
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You're not singing any more.
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4 nil but according to a few on here we ain't very good! Half our players am rubbish.
The work rate, attitude and setpieces have been excellent. Doesn't change the fact some of the personnel are poor. They're very well drilled already.
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Olly is still a Burke
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I really don't know what to think.
It's not pretty but it's effective
I really think we could play a bit more football with another midfielder and a proper striker
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Should have been ruled offside, but hey ho. :P
There was another defender closer to the near post just playing him on.
Goodman doesn't know the rules if he thinks you can't be beyond the keeper.
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Over the bar.
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Oli Burke still practicing the headless chicken run!
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He would have deserved a goal with his performance tonight
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There was another defender closer to the near post just playing him on.
Goodman doesn't know the rules if he thinks you can't be beyond the keeper.
Unless there was a defender out of shot there was only one defender between Robinson and the goal. Not sure what Goodman has to do with my comment?
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As I type, Furlong misses open goal.
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So i'm at work and have missed most of it.
Sum up our performance to this point - in 3 words only...
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So i'm at work and have missed most of it.
Sum up our performance to this point - in 3 words only...
Brutal but effective.
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SJ saves.
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Physical, energy, unrelenting
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Good camera save for Johnstone.
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Fabulous save by Super Sam
🤩
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Good camera save for Johnstone.
Can’t help yourself can you....
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Unless there was a defender out of shot there was only one defender between Robinson and the goal. Not sure what Goodman has to do with my comment?
I'm afraid this isn't true ;D
The goalkeeper is clearly not the second closest Sheffield United player to the goal line, the angle I think Sky used has the culprit behind the goalkeeper.
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Semi coming on soon
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I'm afraid this isn't true ;D
The goalkeeper is clearly not the second closest Sheffield United player to the goal line, the angle I think Sky used has the culprit behind the goalkeeper.
No he was third closest but Robinson was the 2nd closest person imo. I haven't seen a still by the way.
Can’t help yourself can you....
From describing the action?
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Livermore off.
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Interesting. O'Shea in midfield.
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Interestingly he’s playing O’Shea in CM
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Furlong's long throws are better than corners.
The ball lands in exactly the same spot every time.
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SJ is a different goalkeeper since the last time we were in the championship
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No he was third closest but Robinson was the 2nd closest person imo. I haven't seen a still by the way.
Really enjoy the emphasis on person ;D
There was certainly another defender just beside the goalkeeper who is likely what gave the AR confidence it was onside.
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Reach coming on. Clarke off
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The O'Shea midfield experiment didn't last long. Clarke off with a minor knock. Reach into midfield.
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The O'Shea midfield experiment didn't last long. Clarke off with a minor knock. Reach into midfield.
Think Townsend gone CB and Reach LWB
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Think Townsend gone CB and Reach LWB
Correct.
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If the scores stay like this we could be top of the table :).
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As it stands, we are.
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Almost for Semi.
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4 minutes added
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If the scores stay like this we could be top of the table :).
We ARE top
🤩
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4 minutes added on at 4 nil. Etiquette is gone from the game ;D
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Brutal but effective.
Sounds excellent to me!
Physical, energy, unrelenting
It's what we wanted!
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FT 4-0
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Easier than i thought it would be. I did not rate Sheff Utd at all from what i've seen so far this season but this was awful by them.
Decent performances all around apart from Livermore who was pretty rubbish. Bartley had an absolute stinker in the first half but improved after half time. Everyone else solid.
Still need a few more players though, can't risk going till Jan window with a squad this thin.
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Could have been 10 the way Sheffield United were defending set pieces.
Very promising how strong we look on set pieces, and we intersperse that with periods of good play. Considering our last season and a new manager in we've done well to take to the league so quickly.
All good signs, just need probably 3 more players in and we should be there or thereabouts at the end of the season.
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So much passion and energy in that performance
Brutal at times
But I’ll take watching this over a possession based style.
Thought Grant had a good game tonight
Robinson I love
Diangana looked a little better tonight too.
Furlong was immense tonight as was O’Shea
Happy Baggie
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We are top of the league say we are top of the league 😄
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Clean sheet aswell
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Big shout out to Mowatt
Fantastic performance capped off with a goal.
Looks to be an excellent signing
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Can only play what's in front of you, but I tell you what? I'm loving seeing this high pressing, proactive football. Blades were pants but we bullied them, which is refreshing to see, considering last season.
Top of the league! Let's hope we stay there.
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Some cracking comments in the match-day thread:
This is **** poor.
Calamity Kyle.
Townsend caught out of position again.
Livermore has been useless.
Kalamity Kyle nearly does it again!
Class and guile very much missing.
Livermore just useless.
Bartley has been shocking he will cost us!
Of the forward 3 none of them can play through the middle.
Just goes to show that several posters just throw mud at players they don't like regardless of what happens. Great to keep a clean sheet tonight and well done to Robinson for keeping up his goal a game record.
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Crazy watching these same players running around like madmen when in the first half of the PL campaign they could barely move. I much prefer this style. You can't help but get behind the lads even more than usual when you see them putting their absolute all in.
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This long throw-in reminds me of Sjoke’s Rory Delap.
Stoke used to score a hatful in the same way.
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Better second half than first but I’m still underwhelmed. Suspect it’s just that this style of football is not my preference. It’s miles better than Pulis as it’s attacking and trying to win - not watching Foster time waste from kick off - but I’m just not blown away.
It never felt like we were dominating and creating chances - it was more than we scored from the long throws. Still - a great win against a side that will no doubt improve as the season goes and will be up there at the end.
Mowatt is excellent though - an excellent signing.
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I thought this would be another harder game for us and I don’t think we actually played at our best, didn’t seem so good first half but was improved in the second.
Looks like we run teams stupid and they can’t deal with it, couple that with our corners and throw ins and so far it is working.
Agree will still need another couple through the door to strengthen the team but I think we will still get better with a couple or three more games under our belt.
Seems like the shoots of recovery have started to me.
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I don't get down the Hawthorns these days but having a team put the opposition under pressure from the word go and keep it up sounds good to me despite reading some of the comments I reckon the fans will love it this season.
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Only saw catch up scores as had long standing night out booked with the Mrs. Will nevertheless be offering detailed criticisms of most of our players after a couple more drinks.
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Yes Mowatt is a fantastic free signing. Does not stop. Clarke is also an astute signing at this level. No messing. Love it.
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Superb result. That press is incredible. Still attacking and trying to score when 4-0 up as well is something I don't think we've seen under any of our recent head coaches, keeps the opposition on the back foot rather than them throwing everything at us.
We had the toughest start on paper and we've came out of it top of the league. If we can improve our ball retention and get those centre mids we desperately need then we should be pushing for autos.
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This long throw-in reminds me of Stoke’s Rory Delap.
Stoke used to score a hatful in the same way.
It's alright when it's not against you!
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Won 4 nil so definitely wouldn't be too critical. As I said at half time I think we're three short at least and in key positions but we've absolutely steam rolled Sheffield United tonight in spite of those players.
The goal from open play was excellent (as was the one against Bournemouth) and we were relentless in pursuit of further goals.
Agree with others Bartley and Livermore particularly poor. Everyone else ranged from decent to superb.
Mowbray should suit us on Saturday so we can get a little bit of momentum going.
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So much better to see us win a game decisively 4-0. Man of the Match toss up between Robinson and Furlong.
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Some cracking comments in the match-day threat:
This is **** poor.
Calamity Kyle.
Townsend caught out of position again.
Livermore has been useless.
Kalamity Kyle nearly does it again!
Class and guile very much missing.
Livermore just useless.
Bartley has been shocking he will cost us!
Of the forward 3 none of them can play through the middle.
Just goes to show that several posters just throw mud at players they don't like regardless of what happens. Great to keep a clean sheet tonight and well done to Robinson for keeping up his goal a game record.
All perfectly fine at the time they were posted. Learn context mate.
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Great result ,batter them in first half then pick them apart second . Thought Mowat started slow but as he improved so did the team, Furlong did well but should have scored. Still worried by Livermore in the middle and Bartley at the back but hey work in progress ;D
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Well I got my pre-match prediction wrong superb that was absolutely bullied them & made them play right into our hands with the long throw.
Mowatt on a free will be the best signing any team makes this summer, superb player even better out of possession than he is in possession he wins everything.
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They beat us in one respect. We brought on Reach and they brought on Freeman. It's the subs that are concerning.
It was teamwork and method that won it, but O'Shea, Mowatt and Furlong were individually excellent.
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All perfectly fine at the time they were posted. Learn context mate.
Ever considered stand-up? :D
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Brilliant display and you cannot help but be excited for the season after seeing how we are shaping up under Val.
Bartley and Livermore both poor again. Not sure how many more cock ups that cost us goals we need to see from Kyle before the penny drops on here, completely different game if that goes in. Livermore just looks even worse alongside the brilliant Mowatt.
Replace those two and Townsend with better quality and get a striker in and we look a classy outfit
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I think the 3rd goal is the ideal Ismaël goal. We just need to get better at making the right decisions when we win it high up the pitch like that. I actually quite like having a fluid front 3 in that respect and hopefully it will become slicker over time.
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Joint top of the league with Fulham, with BBC website table showing us on top . :)
Hopefully no looking back!
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Blackburn on Saturday who have got off to a good start to be fair. No mercy lads. Right up 'em!
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Fantastic result. Clean sheet. Could have scored twice as many.
Nothing more need be said tonight. Well done Albion!
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Happy with that tonight. Stood strong, showed great desire and 'worked aard", even "rilly ard", also showed elements of composure at times. Would not criticise a single player of ours for that match and result. New Manager new system, new ideas, new ideology, new identity. all takes time to filter through and become instinctive.
Will mention SJ. He did all that I would expect from a good keeper tonight. As he gains confidence and with the right coaching input we could have found ourselves a future England prospect. Keep it up Sam :D
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It's a weird style really, it's not overly attractive but it's very dominant. The opening 3 games make it look like we are easily amongst the best sides in the division.
The squad depth is still an issue - Townsend finished at centre back, O'Shea in central midfield, a couple of injuries puts us in a bad place, but Ismael does seem to be able to get the best out of his players so a couple of additions would make us a good bet for promotion.
Mowatt is possibly the bargain of the summer, also really happy with Clarke.
It's a good start.
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Fantastic performance! High intensity, all for one approach, even at 4-0 up, should have been 7.
OShea MotM for me, this system was made for this boy.
Furlong, Mowatt, Townsend, Grant, Robinson all superb.
Livermore did ok, this system actually suits him, because it hides his limitations, to a point, but we can do better.
Considering Johnstone has had less time than all the others to adapt, he was fantastic, Bravo Sam.
Diangana appeared to struggle BUT, he still contributes off the ball with his energy. Due to his age and upbringing (West Ham) he may need a little longer to fully "get it" but he will. Ish's reaction when he brought him off backs this up. WiP
Bartley was awful first half but improved, would like another option.
Clarke looks the bees knees although he tired towards the end.
All in all, a jolly good night. Especially considering how far ahead of us Sheff Utd are. ;) :P
TOTL COYB
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It was a great result tonight, make no mistake, but we can still play better. For instance, there was often too much kick and rush; if we can find more composure and finesse when in possession in the opposing half, we'll be extremely difficult to stop. In his interview on Sky after the game, Valerien said that we need to improve when in possession, so hopefully we can work on our possession play. If we do, we'll see more goals like the excellent goal by Mowatt.
I thought Clarke, O'Shea, Furlong, Mowatt and Robinson were immense tonight, but felt that Bartley again looked a wea link in the back 3 and that we're pretty much carrying Diangana at present. It was also good to see Johnstone adapting to the requirement for him to often be a sweeper, as having to come off his line miuch more should help him improve his overall game.
I remain concerned about the depth of the squad. We can't keep depending on 11 players when using this level of intensity and need more players who can come in and do the same job to the same level of ability as those they're replacing, and I feel we're lacking that a lot if we're to be able to operate a meaningful level of squad rotation, which I think we'll need to do to be able to retain momentum and keep up Valerien's style of play. I'm certain that he knows what he needs, so just hope that the board can provide it.
We made Sheff Utd look pretty embarrassing though, so well done to the whole side.
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Great result and performance. All played a part so no criticisms from me. Some harsh comments about Livermore who played his part in my view. Johnstone adapting well to his sweeper keeper role. All good :)
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Battered Sheffield United during what looks like a good time to play them. We look a threat from every Furlong throw in and most corners too.
I thought O'Shea, Mowatt and Furlong were excellent with plenty of other good performances in there too. I actually thought Livermore was ok; as someone else put it, this style helps to hide some of his main deficiencies. Bartley had some poor moments but we all know he isn't a very good front foot defender playing higher up the pitch, it doesn't suit him so that will be a consistent fear I expect. I had a wry smile when Townsend went to left centre back for a shirt spell, I suggested him as an option in this formation earlier in the summer only to get shot down on here. To be fair, it was pointed out that he is allegedly only 5ft 6 so I admitted defeat on that one!
Couple of tactical bits: thought Johnstone showed he was levels ahead of Button and I'd say most others in this league as a sweeper keeper and I also liked that we were slightly more refrained in our press today as the wing-backs didn't always press high immediately. That was pleasing to see that Ismael does have tweaks he can apply to the system which is a good place to be in.
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Fantastic night.
We can and will get better at playing Valball. We still need a bit more composure and quality on the ball.
Everytime we take a set piece opponents struggle to cope, to be honest they are not coping.
O'Shea and Clarke are looking fantastic, this way of playing is perfect for them. Mowatt, Furlong, Townsend, Robinson all looking the part tonight.
GREAT to hear a proper atmosphere back at the Hawthorns as well in these opening two fixtures. The Smethwick has found some volume, the Brummie has awoken from what seemed a terminal sleep and its loud and even the millennium corner is playing it's part. The Hawthorns is fantastic when the atmosphere is like this. Well done everyone.
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Really enjoyed it tonight.
I don’t think we will see a better game all season at the shrine. We were excellent from start to finish and could really have scored more than the four. Some players will come in for the usual criticism but I cannot fault anybody tonight.
Dara O’Shea was fantastic again and looked equally assured in midfield.
These are a much fancied team in this league and we’ve wiped the floor of them.
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It's a weird style really, it's not overly attractive but it's very dominant. The opening 3 games make it look like we are easily amongst the best sides in the division.
The squad depth is still an issue - Townsend finished at centre back, O'Shea in central midfield, a couple of injuries puts us in a bad place, but Ismael does seem to be able to get the best out of his players so a couple of additions would make us a good bet for promotion.
Mowatt is possibly the bargain of the summer, also really happy with Clarke.
It's a good start.
Think this is bang on. Thread bare need another centre midfield for when the current 2 get injured suspended or just fattigued from back to back games. If we get one to push livermore down pecking order ideal.
We still need another centre forward. Over reliant on the long throw and the set pieces like delap when at stoke the throws put the fear of god into people.
However the third goal another great team move which saw the press win the ball then carve them open. We win the ball back a lot high up and the longer we play the system the better the deicison making will be and more goals will come from it.
3 points 4 goals clean sheet, top of the league so cant be that critical roll on the next one.
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It's a weird style really, it's not overly attractive but it's very dominant. The opening 3 games make it look like we are easily amongst the best sides in the division.
The squad depth is still an issue - Townsend finished at centre back, O'Shea in central midfield, a couple of injuries puts us in a bad place, but Ismael does seem to be able to get the best out of his players so a couple of additions would make us a good bet for promotion.
Mowatt is possibly the bargain of the summer, also really happy with Clarke.
It's a good start.
It’s very attractive from where I’m sat. Football with a purpose.
Agree with your comments about squad depth. The fact O’Shea had to go into midfield really shows that we need some additional bodies.
It is credit to O’Shea that he fitted in so well alongside Townsend at centre half. We are a couple of additions away from being a really good side.
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Really good performance. Solid all round, similar to Luton game but without the silly mistakes letting the opposition back in. I really wouldn't like to play against a team the way we set up - how do you combat it? Try and play your way out and you're asking to lose possession and be exposed, hoof it long and it comes right back at you. The biggest chance we conceded today was from Sheff Utd playing the ball quickly forward, turning it around the corner and Bartley losing out. Townsend had pushed forward leaving McGoldrick 1v1 against Clarke - so as soon as Bartley loses out, Clarke has to go to the player with the ball leaving the massive gap in behind. Townsend just needs to be a bit more patient - Sheff Utd had possession so there was no need to get so far away from McGoldrick. Again though, new system so hopefully he'll improve. That was the team's only error tonight, great stuff.
Only concerns are the depth of squad and that's mostly because we seem to drop away a bit after about 65 mins. I'm not sure if that's the changes, or just players getting more tired (or both).
We're still learning the system and fine tuning it so we'll carry on improving. I'm sure the keeper sweeper and our highline will cost us a fair few goals this season but that's the price to pay for this sytem I guess. I love seeing us press high and force the opposition to give us the ball back in dangerous areas. A bit more composure will come with time, as will the defence knowing when it's best to commit so far forward.
Thought CR was excellent and he plays football with a huge smile on his face. The front 3 we start with look fine, we know there's more to come from Grant and Diangana but they're both getting better week by week.
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Pleased we showed we can score from open play as well as Furlong set pieces. Mowatt's was an excellent effort. We also came really close from a couple of low crosses and Furlong and Ajayi missed sitters from close in.
Hats off to Val. He is getting the best out of everyone.
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It's a weird style really, it's not overly attractive but it's very dominant. The opening 3 games make it look like we are easily amongst the best sides in the division.
The squad depth is still an issue - Townsend finished at centre back, O'Shea in central midfield, a couple of injuries puts us in a bad place, but Ismael does seem to be able to get the best out of his players so a couple of additions would make us a good bet for promotion.
Mowatt is possibly the bargain of the summer, also really happy with Clarke.
It's a good start.
Agree with this too. It’s entertaining and will blitz some sides even if quality on the ball is a little lacking at times.
A lot of us see depth will be an issue and I think its clear it will be. I also think it won’t translate to a higher level but we don’t need to worry about that right now. Promotion is more important. A couple of key signings will really help achieve that.
Two of our opening three have been against the three sides tipped with us as the big four this season though and you can my complain at 7 points.
I was shocked how weak the sheff u starting line up was though, I’d not be happy seeing McBurnie and Brewster warning the subs bench, but let’s face it, they’d have had little bearing tonight because we strangled them before they got to the final third. That said, they missed a sitter to equalise and it may have changed the game.
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I feel there was a slight improvement in our fitness tonight as well. Against Luton we dropped off badly. Partly because Zohore came on but also tiredness started to creep in throughout which is to be expected. Tonight the drop off in performance from 60 mins still existed but less noticeable.
I imagine in a few weeks it will be far less noticeable than now still.
Shame we can't have 5 subs this season. Would have suited us down to the ground once we add a few more starting players.
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I feel there was a slight improvement in our fitness tonight as well. Against Luton we dropped off badly. Partly because Zohore came on but also tiredness started to creep in throughout which is to be expected. Tonight the drop off in performance from 60 mins still existed but less noticeable.
I imagine in a few weeks it will be far less noticeable than now still.
Shame we can't have 5 subs this season. Would have suited us down to the ground once we add a few more starting players.
Big difference was the injury on Saturday. That really paused any momentum we had in the game and spurred Luton on.
Tonight after the interval, a couple of quick fire goals and before you know it the crowd and players are feeding off it.
There seemed to be a point in the second half where United couldn’t get our their own half such was the aggressiveness in our press
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Don’t think our press was that aggressive tonight especially in first half more of a controlled press, if front three had more composure on ball this Ishmael journey could be really exciting.
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Don’t think our press was that aggressive tonight especially in first half more of a controlled press, if front three had more composure on ball this Ishmael journey could be really exciting.
Agree with your first sentence. I thought first half our press was passive and allowed them to have the ball - though they did nothing with it.
After the s3cond goal we smelt blood and went after them.
A thoroughly convincing victory.
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Big difference was the injury on Saturday. That really paused any momentum we had in the game and spurred Luton on.
Tonight after the interval, a couple of quick fire goals and before you know it the crowd and players are feeding off it.
There seemed to be a point in the second half where United couldn’t get our their own half such was the aggressiveness in our press
I actually agree with Paul who posted directly below your reply. I think the press was not quite as aggressive as before. It was a bit more contained dare I say.
Definitely agree about the crowd and quick fire goals spurring everyone on. Seemed to give the players a surge of energy and belief.
Again as Paul says get a quality CF who suits this system and a new CM to help Mowatt and we will be one of the top 2 teams in this division along with Fulham.
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Vote now
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Got up at 5am to watch the game and loved it!
I don’t understand why some of you can’t get enthused by this style, I think it’s brilliant!
We get beaten in PL and we moan, we’re unbeaten in the Championship and on top and yet the same guys moan.
The comments on the in game chat for the first two pages was so negative you could hardly find a positive one. Some of the obvious continued attacks on certain players is just downright embarrassing and childish.
Even up 4-0 some wanted to keep moaning.
O’Shea had a great game and along with Furlong and Mowatt were our best players.
Great to see Robinson get his third in three games.
Onwards to Blackburn, fingers crossed we can get a result!
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I always hated when we played Stoke. And later, Leeds. Now I understand why they enjoyed their day out. :D
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Won 4 nil so definitely wouldn't be too critical. As I said at half time I think we're three short at least and in key positions but we've absolutely steam rolled Sheffield United tonight in spite of those players.
The goal from open play was excellent (as was the one against Bournemouth) and we were relentless in pursuit of further goals.
Agree with others Bartley and Livermore particularly poor. Everyone else ranged from decent to superb.
Mowbray should suit us on Saturday so we can get a little bit of momentum going.
We’re you watching the same game? It was excellent entertainment. Methinks you are far too critical of the team that you seem to support!
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We’re you watching the same game? It was excellent entertainment. Methinks you are far too critical of the team that you seem to support!
What an odd post, I haven't suggested it wasn't entertaining... or really criticised anything or anyone...
Seem? As I said very odd.
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I'd like to see more composure on the ball when we win it back, it is erratic at times. We should settle down as the players adapt to the system, although it's clear that quality counts as well. Mowatt is always calm and keeps it simple. Whereas Livermore is very much kick and rush. We bullied Sheff Utd tonight, they couldn't cope with our three centre backs from the long throw-ins.
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Wait till we click
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Dara.....two in a row
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Just done something I never normally do.................read the "in game chat" thread.
Unbelievable!
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We’re you watching the same game? It was excellent entertainment. Methinks you are far too critical of the team that you seem to support!
I agree with Jacko to a large degree. I love the way that VI has us playing and tonight was a fantastic result. However, we are not the finished article and still need to strengthen the squad. Sheffield were solid in the first half and it could have been a different game had McGoldrick not missed his chance. Second half went our way completely and their confidence drained. Take Mowatt out of our central midfield and we would be far less effective. There is no cover at the moment for him or Livermore (who is holding his own but not flourishing). A CF who is strong and can hold the ball would take us to a whole new level with Grant, Robinson, Grady or Phillips playing off him.
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What was our second goal disallowed for? I didn’t see a foul in the build up from where I was stood.
Was the first disallowed goal definitely offside?
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I’ve gone with Dara O’Shea too - thought he was colossus last night. He looked equally assured in midfield too, though the game was done by that point.
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What was our second goal disallowed for? I didn’t see a foul in the build up from where I was stood.
Was the first disallowed goal definitely offside?
It was disallowed for a foul but it looked more like the other way around and a possible penalty to me. However, had the foul not have been given it would then have been offside.
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It was disallowed for a foul but it looked more like the other way around and a possible penalty to me. However, had the foul not have been given it would then have been offside.
No goal whichever way it was sliced then! Cheers mate
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Officious officiating seems to be his stock in trade he decided he even had to give it the big I am to Val for protesting another of his dubious decisions. Didn't he miss a blatant hand ball too at one point? Utter backside of a ref
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As somebody once said , It's a funny old game !1st half we were dire with awful passing and control, Thankfully Sheffield managed to miss 2 best chances of the half the McGoldrick one following Barts Mardonesque moment particularly important. 2nd half the early goal had a galvanising effect on team and crowd and coupled with Sheffields lack of enthusiasm made it a comfortable night .
Lots to like about the performance but also Lots to improve and work on, somebody that can pass the ball with accuracy and vision from midfield would be a god send in this team. Some thought needed in how we defend as especially early on our wing backs were left in 2 on 1 situations from which better teams than Sheffield will take advantage.
Stand out performer on the night for me was Furlong shame about the chance late on but overall thougt he was outstanding
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Dara. This system was made for him!
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First match since Boxing Day 2019 and first time I've enjoyed going in about 5 years! Think I'll be making the trek more often this season. Although there's no way we can keep that intensity/physicality up all season, surely?
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First match since Boxing Day 2019 and first time I've enjoyed going in about 5 years! Think I'll be making the trek more often this season. Although there's no way we can keep that intensity/physicality up all season, surely?
Get a few more in and I would expect to see squad rotation on the weeks we have 2 games in a short space of each other.
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Ive gone for Dara.
But could have given it to Furlong, Mowatt or 1 or 2 other players.
Dara was absolutely brilliant last night though
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O'Shea was superb again. Special mention to Mowatt who ran him close for me.
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Bartley made mistakes but I was impressed by the way he kept up alongside Burke on his sprint down the wing. He ran slightly towards our goal forcing Burke on an outside lane. However a decent winger would have cut back and looked for a team mate. Robinson <> Burke? We don't always make transfer errors.
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First match since Boxing Day 2019 and first time I've enjoyed going in about 5 years! Think I'll be making the trek more often this season. Although there's no way we can keep that intensity/physicality up all season, surely?
I think we saw signs last night that the intensity was a bit more controlled and less frantic. As the players get used to it, and confidence builds, their in game management will improve.
Interesting point by Ish last night though about how important it was to get of to a good start, with this system, so that the players fully buy in. I would say, looking at that performance, it's one thing he doesn't have to worry about. :)
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I'd like to see more composure on the ball when we win it back, it is erratic at times. We should settle down as the players adapt to the system, although it's clear that quality counts as well. Mowatt is always calm and keeps it simple. Whereas Livermore is very much kick and rush. We bullied Sheff Utd tonight, they couldn't cope with our three centre backs from the long throw-ins.
Exactly my thoughts. We're only three games into a season. All the training in the world won't make them the finished article against a live opposition.
When they settle and become accustomed to the system, and start learning instinctively where each other will be when the ball is won, we'll look a lot less frantic and frenetic. With that in mind, we've already had two good results against two promotion contenders so far. Imagine how good we could be once we get a couple more bodies in and settle around the system?
Six is definitely the right manager for us. He's rebuilt our football from top to bottom, instilled a clear philosophy and got the players buy-in for it. I'm very very optimistic for this season.
Another thought, I thought SJ did very well in his sweeper-keeper role last night. His early rushing out of his area for the loose ball down the right wing in the second half was a great decision. Does ValBall accommodate him better, in that he absolutely HAS to make instinctive, split-second decisions like that, rather than sitting and thinking about what he should do, as the ball travels at him?
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Another good performance. We were much more controlled in the first half but still put the ball in the Sheff Utd net 3 times (although only 1 counted). Second half we just blew them away. Mowatt's goal came from a great piece of play and we look like scoring from most long throws and corners.
Impressed with Johnstone as he played the sweeper keeper role very well and nullified Burke's pace.
Bartley made an error for the McGoldrick chance but won most of his battles. O'Shea and Clarke were immense. Townsend and Furlong were a danger all night and both did their defensive duties well.
Mowatt looks a very good box to box players and took his goal well. Livermore tidy in the DM role & won most of his battles, tired towards the end.
The support was again fantastic and I thought the Sheff United fans that stayed contributed to that with some great gallows humour.
Diangana looked better than against Luton and Bournemouth but still miles away from the player he once was. Hopefully as he gets more game time that player returns.
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Another good performance.....Livermore....tired towards the end.....
Agreed performance wise, as for Jake tiring I was knackered just watching and cheering them on. COYB 8) .
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Absolutely loved that last night - one of the best games I've been to in years.
One thing I'd like to say first is about the style of play. Yes, I'd like to see more composure on the ball. Yes, I'd like to see us utilising our star player, Diangana, much more effectively (I feel he is struggling in this system at the moment). And yes, it's bloody giving me a heart attack seeing Bartley charging at opposition central midfielders in their own half; that's where Sheff U's only chance came from tbh.
Yet, I loved it.
The passion. The intensity. The tackles. It gets the crowd right up and on numerous occasions - from Robinson, Grant and Mowatt especially - the players did their best to rouse a response from the crowd when we had a throw, corner, or were simply in the opposition half.
The throw can be deemed ugly. But how great is it that teams are now scared to come to the Hawthorns and face the physical challenge from set pieces? The throw itself is hopefully going to be a hex, and we haven't even got a dominant centre forward yet. We were a pathetic soft touch last year - streamrolled by teams with obvious quality, but also much greater physicality (see Leeds at home for an example). If we score our goals through that route and chip in with brilliant goals from our high press, then that's perfect for me. We have scored a goal like that now in each of our first three games. For all of Sheff U's possession (65% against us 70%+ against Blues), they created almost zilch. I also felt we had some really good moments through the wing backs, with there being an argument that we should have almost certainly scored one, probably two goals from this area of the pitch.
And let's just talk about the end. All the players applauding every section of the ground. Big Val and Adam Murray hugging all the players as they came off.
The players have bought into it and so have I. I just hope that the ownership will allow us to bring in two quality additions to really add to what we have. You hope they don't see the 4-0 and think that we're good enough over an entire season. Imagine an injury to Robinson? Clarke? Or the worst of all, Mowatt?
Anyway, happy Baggie!
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Great performance against a side which at the start of the season I would have thought would be challenging for promotion. But I think in reality they will be struggling against relegation.
Sheffield were awful. They struggled badly against set pieces. But you can only beat what they put in front of you. There will be a lot sterner tests this season against better sides. On last nights showing I would say Sheffield are probably one of the worst sides in this division.
We still need to strengthen the squad. With the loan players we have lost 11 players over the last few months and only brought in 4. We are far too thin on the ground as far as players are concerned. A few injuries and a few suspensions and we could be struggling. It's a long hard haul in the championship and with the way we are playing it will take a lot more out of the players especially when its 2 games a week, week after week. That is what could scupper our season !!
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I've gone for Robinson, who got the ball in the net 3 times and was finally rewarded for scoring against his old club, and deservedly.
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Very difficult one. You could pick one if half a dozen players and be perfectly justified in doing that.
I'll give it to Clarke but I wouldnt argue with anyone opinion.
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I'd like to see more composure on the ball when we win it back, it is erratic at times. We should settle down as the players adapt to the system, although it's clear that quality counts as well. Mowatt is always calm and keeps it simple. Whereas Livermore is very much kick and rush. We bullied Sheff Utd tonight, they couldn't cope with our three centre backs from the long throw-ins.
The composure will come with better players and once the confidence is 'cemented in their heads' as Val said. Blimey you wouldn't argue with him, thought he would definitely get a red the way he laid into the ref. Mike Dean would have loved to have pulled the red card out!
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For some reason I've always loved 4-0 victories. Nice and decisive. Absolutely buy into Val's philosophy to keep going for it when you are winning. You can get hit on the counter, but how many times do you see a team trying to defend a 1-0 sitting deep around their own penalty box, and finally conceding.
As for Olly Burke, that was a master decision to swap him for Robinson. The sprint against Bartley summed him up. Loads of speed, but no trickery, control or sense of direction. Wilder's assessment of forwards, not the greatest.
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I thought we looked really good and I really enjoyed this match. Strong fluid football and a joy to watch Between Robinson, Diangana and Grant we will frighten most defences in this league. The high pressing game is good to watch, but does at times leave gaps and we need to strengthen with a couple of players in both defence and midfield.
I would note that Sheffield were however quite poor. Their keeper arguably gave two of our goals, McGloldrick missed a sitter to us and the Sheffield fans were singing how Sh*t must you be we got in a shot at one point. I think we might find Sheffield middle league or worse this year, but they will have money coming in when they complete the sale of their keeper. Onwards to Blackburn.
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Just done something I never normally do.................read the "in game chat" thread.
Unbelievable!
Yes, I try to stay clear when I can. Most important thing to note is that, in the main, those who post in that thread are not at the game. Just saying 8)
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Would have likened him to one of a number of body parts; female or male or one in particular common to either gender. But, as these are in the main useful I have refrained.
Fair to say though he was not only useless, he was also less useless towards the away team than he was to WBA, a team whose members he seemed to have an intense dislike for. However I do feel that after the debate with Val he did become a little more equal in his uselessness.
Had I been able to reach him and had I a bottle of beer that was less than a quarter full to hand I would cheerfully have shared it with him by breaking it over his thick cheating skull.
Suffice it now to state that personally I would prefer that he was not involved in any more of our games.
Aaaah that's better now that's off me chest! 8)
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Some high quality aftertiming/revisionism happening here regards 1st half performance last night :-X
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The only threat Sheff Utd offered first half was right after we scored when Barts did a Barts and got his feet messed up which led to them creating that one on one for Mcgoldrick who really should have scored. Other than that not a thing. We scored once and had two disallowed so our first half performance was fine. What we did lack was composure on the ball and the accuracy of our passing was off. That improved second half.
We have scored more goals than anyone in the EFL and conceded less shots on goal than anyone in the Championship.
When you consider Val has implemented his extreme style and we're only three games in it's pretty impressive stuff especially when you consider we've played two of the teams expected to be top four this season. In saying that it was probably a good time to get Sheff Utd who are in transition and playing a different way to what they are used to. But then so are we.
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Some high quality aftertiming/revisionism happening here regards 1st half performance last night :-X
Prompted me to read the in game thread for the first time...made for interesting reading ;D
Nice to see everyone in there reacting as it unfolded basically agreeing with my sentiments that Bartley, Townsend and Livermore need replacing.
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Yes, I try to stay clear when I can. Most important thing to note is that, in the main, those who post in that thread are not at the game. Just saying 8)
they might well be watching on Tv though and have a better overall view about how things are panning out.
It does tend to be a place for some posters to have a go at players they don't rate despite how they are actually playing though....but it's always going to be that way.
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they might well be watching on Tv though and have a better overall view about how things are panning out.
It does tend to be a place for some posters to have a go at players they don't rate despite how they are actually playing though....but it's always going to be that way.
Fair comments. I just get frustrated with those who have a hit list of players in whom they will never see any good, totally regardless of how they may play in a particular game.
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No one that I can see who was criticised in the in game thread by any poster had a good game last night. ???
To suggest otherwise is just strange virtue signalling. It's okay to be critical of our own players. Jeepers.
There are no hitlists... well unless every dissenting voice has the same one ;)
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No one that I can see who was criticised in the in game thread by any poster had a good game last night. ???
To suggest otherwise is just strange virtue signalling. It's okay to be critical of our own players. Jeepers
There are no hitlists... well unless every dissenting voice has the same one ;)
Nothing to do with virtual signalling though. I thought Livermore and Townsend had decent games and Bartley apart from the McGoldrick generally coped with everything that was thrown at him.
It's also okay to praise players that you don't like as well. ;)
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Nothing to do with virtual signalling though. I thought Livermore and Townsend had decent games and Bartley apart from the McGoldrick generally coped with everything that was thrown at him.
It's also okay to praise players that you don't like as well. ;)
Townsend was good, better than on Saturday. Livermore was Ok but we could do with an upgrade for first choice starter. Yokuslu!
Barts worries me all the time, too many clumsy errors. Always been the same unless we defend in a low block where he can just put himself in the way of things. Ideally we could do with an upgrade but CB right now isnt a priority.
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No one that I can see who was criticised in the in game thread by any poster had a good game last night. ???
To suggest otherwise is just strange virtue signalling. It's okay to be critical of our own players. Jeepers.
There are no hitlists... well unless every dissenting voice has the same one ;)
None of them had bad games though . With the exception of Johnstone I reckon all of the players made at least one mistake of varying degrees and all of them did something well . Two of the most criticised improved as the game went on so is that having a bad game ?
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Townsend was good, better than on Saturday. Livermore was Ok but we could do with an upgrade for first choice starter. Yokuslu!
Barts worries me all the time, too many clumsy errors. Always been the same unless we defend in a low block where he can just put himself in the way of things. Ideally we could do with an upgrade but CB right now isnt a priority.
totally agree on the need for upgrades for Livermore and Bartley.
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totally agree on the need for upgrades for Livermore and Bartley.
Bartley has not been given enough praise for how much chaos he caused in their box. We had a goal ruled out first half from Robinson when he won the ball and flicked it on and then exactly the same for our fourth goal, he got on the end of the set piece and put it on a plate for Robinson. He was also instrumental along with Clarke in putting their Defender under sufficient pressure to score the own-goal to get us the lead; and of course part of a defence that limited Sheff Utd to one chance. I remember Hegazi who despite being huge very rarely got on the end of a corner or long throw and seldom scored / assisted for us.
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Bartley has not been given enough praise for how much chaos he caused in their box. We had a goal ruled out first half from Robinson when he won the ball and flicked it on and then exactly the same for our fourth goal, he got on the end of the set piece and put it on a plate for Robinson. He was also instrumental along with Clarke in putting their Defender under sufficient pressure to score the own-goal to get us the lead; and of course part of a defence that limited Sheff Utd to one chance. I remember Hegazi who despite being huge very rarely got on the end of a corner or long throw and seldom scored / assisted for us.
Ajayi is more of a threat in the opposition box as proven by his goal return since he joined us. Replace Bartley with him and we instantly look better in both boxes.
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Bartley has not been given enough praise for how much chaos he caused in their box. We had a goal ruled out first half from Robinson when he won the ball and flicked it on and then exactly the same for our fourth goal, he got on the end of the set piece and put it on a plate for Robinson. He was also instrumental along with Clarke in putting their Defender under sufficient pressure to score the own-goal to get us the lead; and of course part of a defence that limited Sheff Utd to one chance. I remember Hegazi who despite being huge very rarely got on the end of a corner or long throw and seldom scored / assisted for us.
Indeed you are correct about his contributions to our attacks, but he does have an error in him that leads to a goal opportunity in nearly every game.
Similarly Livermore does a lot of the physical stuff in midfield and breaks things up but contributes very little in an attacking sense but he is playing more as a DM in this set up. A lot see this as a negative.
There are better options for both out there.
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No one that I can see who was criticised in the in game thread by any poster had a good game last night. ???
To suggest otherwise is just strange virtue signalling. It's okay to be critical of our own players. Jeepers.
There are no hitlists... well unless every dissenting voice has the same one ;)
No hit lists ?? Dear oh dear, from you of all people. I will leave it there.
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No one that I can see who was criticised in the in game thread by any poster had a good game last night. ???
To suggest otherwise is just strange virtue signalling. It's okay to be critical of our own players. Jeepers.
There are no hitlists... well unless every dissenting voice has the same one ;)
Would have disagreed with this at one time, because it really did seem as if some posters would not allow their chosen target any leeway or fair praise. However I attempted to look at this by analysing responses to a particular non-football post to see who first recognised the errors and made critical responses, and what terminology they used. ie humour, irony, arrogance, disdain etc. I was particularly interested in any of the nasty trolling type response. (There were only a couple and they were pretty mild.) :-*
It was entirely for my own interest, (I was shielding and bored) and for no other reason, and in any event was completely inconclusive. There were no patterns at all and my little social experiment failed totally.
I therefore happily conclude that on this board at least, I could find no evidence of anything that might be termed a 'hit list'. Just a fair proportion of what I consider are typical Albion fans with half empty glasses. :)
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No hit lists ?? Dear oh dear, from you of all people. I will leave it there.
There are just good players and not very good players, some of us are more adept at spotting the difference than others it seems ;)
While others are quicker to forgive/overlook their obvious limitations.
I personally always want better for the club...
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Bartley in the Team of the Week is going to trigger some on here! :o
https://twitter.com/SkyBetChamp/status/1428274141447217152
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Bartley in the Team of the Week is going to trigger some on here! :o
https://twitter.com/SkyBetChamp/status/1428274141447217152
Saw that before. Very strange considering he was the poorest of our 3. Never mind the other 11 matches.
Think he's been credited with an assist though?
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Saw that before. Very strange considering he was the poorest of our 3. Never mind the other 11 matches.
Think he's been credited with an assist though?
Maybe those picking the team of the week are more adept at spotting a good player than others? :D
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Maybe those picking the team of the week are more adept at spotting a good player than others? :D
Obviously not... :-\
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Bartley in the Team of the Week is going to trigger some on here! :o
https://twitter.com/SkyBetChamp/status/1428274141447217152
Barts has clearly, clearly, clearly been the weakest of our back three, I cant even understand a debate about that so that team of the weak is as nonsensical as it is meaningless.
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Some high quality aftertiming/revisionism happening here regards 1st half performance last night :-X
Nothing wrong with it.... we were fully in control!
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Obviously not... :-\
obviously yes :P
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As I live in Yorkshire and am therefore too tight to pay for WBA TV audio or video commentary I have to rely on Radio 5 / Talksprout / Local Yorkshire radio. Last night I had half an ear open for commentary on Radio Sheffield. They were totally mystified why Sheffield should stop playing football after 15 minutes and start to play long ball, which played to our strengths and Bartley was magnificent in defence and cut out almost every ball.
It is all about opinions......
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There are just good players and not very good players, some of us are more adept at spotting the difference than others it seems ;)
While others are quicker to forgive/overlook their obvious limitations.
I personally always want better for the club...
I’m sure you do, as we all do. I know good players when I see them too. I want us to sign world class players but am realistic enough to know it’s not going to happen.