Obviously doesn't help that neither Antonio nor Scamacca played, but the players that usually play in behind our CF, Bowen apart, have been pretty poor at breaking set teams down since Christmas.
What a nonsense that was. Ended the game with at least three players out of position. Our False 9 ended up at LWB, our right back went from LCB to RCB and our only midfield runner went to LCB
The only positive in terms of our play is that we looked pretty strong defensively. Ahead of the back three we were absolutely woeful, IMO.
A lot of work to do still, but unfortunately we're now in a position whereby we have to integrate any new players during a period of seven important games.
That was a really frustrating game at the end of a really frustrating pre-season.
Fab/Areola didn’t have a save to make. We looked ok at the back but when one of your CMs struggles to pass, the other has an off day, your other plays CF & your reserve LB plays LWB, you can’t really expect much more.
Fab/Areola didn’t have a save to make. We looked ok at the back but when one of your CMs struggles to pass, the other has an off day, your other plays CF & your reserve LB plays LWB, you can’t really expect much more.
I don't think Rice had an off day. Thought he was clear MOTM for us, but to be honest I think I'd have had a good shot at that if I played instead of him; that's how bad I thought the rest were.
Rice was visibly frustrated throughout the game. So many times he had the ball and kept gesturing for someone to give him an option, but no-one did until Lanzini came on. I get that we were light on forward options, but those that did play in front of him offered absolutely nothing.
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Now we hit the bar.
Good draw going into second leg.
“We’re gonna win Europa league…”
The only positive in terms of our play is that we looked pretty strong defensively. Ahead of the back three we were absolutely woeful, IMO.
A lot of work to do still, but unfortunately we're now in a position whereby we have to integrate any new players during a period of seven important games.
That was a really frustrating game at the end of a really frustrating pre-season.
Rice was visibly frustrated throughout the game. So many times he had the ball and kept gesturing for someone to give him an option, but no-one did until Lanzini came on. I get that we were light on forward options, but those that did play in front of him offered absolutely nothing.