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Oldham Athletic 1 v 0 Salford City
Papa John's Trophy
Tuesday, 31st August 2021 Kick-off 19:00

Voting was locked for this match at midnight on Wednesday 1st September but you may still add your mini match reports. Note that members and non-members alike were able to vote.


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Your Oldham Athletic v Salford City Match Reports

Support added 15:05 - Aug 6

test 1
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Swedish_Hoop added 20:41 - Aug 7

Where the Hel is Helguson?
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Silky_Ste added 08:19 - Aug 8

Firstly a great day out and our away following was superb. Some great singing. Proud of the display and actually felt gutted when we left at full time.

It was a tough game so to come away with a point from that is very good. Sinclair seem to be a new player from last season.
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qpr_ox added 12:06 - Aug 8

Might need to adjust the Mackie goal...
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jdalec added 16:34 - Aug 9

A nervy start to our league 1 status but we did settle down. Either side could have taken all the points but i think a draw was perhaps the fairest result. Jones was magnificent and was the only midfield player to try and make things happen.
Onwards and upwards
-5


qpr1962 added 12:09 - Aug 10

great start to a new season
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qpr1962 added 12:13 - Aug 10

o yes i like your new web site
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qpr1962 added 20:48 - Aug 10

all down with a bump and its only half time
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qpr1962 added 21:52 - Aug 10

well we play some young plays tonight but warnock is right we still need about three new signings if we get injury's to some of main plays we found very hard over the season i do no we got plays like rowlands cook and mahon to come back from injury so good luck to port vale in next round
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HollowayRanger added 23:09 - Aug 10

anyone want to try and defend the signing of kenny? never rated him and after two games i havent seen a single thing to change my mind
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HamptonR added 07:40 - Aug 11

Last night proves that Neil Warnock is correct when he says that we do not have enough strength in the squad.
Had we played Vale on Saturday the outcome would have been very different.
0


shooters47 added 08:29 - Aug 11

Definitely shows that the squad is not good enough but think we may be forgetting that 5 of Mr Warnocks signings played last night. Keep being told that Kenny hasnt played for a year and not sure when he is going to start!!
Good to see Leon Clarke has lost weight and not gained any skill and that we are concentrating on the league again.
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SomersetHoops added 10:39 - Aug 11

I see NW says our reserves are not good, but I went to a reserves friendly at Taunton Town and could see that. I think quite a few of our youngsters have potential, but need senior competitive games to develop. Once they outgrow the age group competitions the only thing is to send them out on loan. Problem is while the squad is short we need them to fill gaps and playing in fits and non-starts won't help their development. Hopefully NW can fill the gaps and we can look forward to hanging onto these youngsters who can come back from loans ready to play a full part in QPR's future. Lets not be too downhearted by this defeat it should have been expected from the team sheet. I'm indebted to MelakaRanger for letting me know Marlon King will definately not be signing which for me is more important than this result. Tommy Smith? Danny Cipriani!??? - I feel before too long we will have the squad to compete.
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jdalec added 13:48 - Aug 11

Did well to go in at half time still in with a chance, came out a different side second ahlf and looked quite comfortable at times.
Elding had a few decent chances and could of grabbed another, COG also had a gift of chance which he would normally have chosen his spot and cooly placed the ball in it, not to be.
Overall a good hard won game that will hopefully send us to Brighton with our tails in the air.
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qpr1962 added 17:55 - Aug 14

well great win at sheff utd two wins out of two keep it up come on you Rsss
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fooldude added 21:35 - Aug 14

A tough game against a well organised side who will no doubt finish above us this season given their resources. However, the lads seemed to have their heads down after giving away another by-line softie. On target stats says it all. Some good football but no-one seemed prepared to shoot. You can't win matches on headers alone.
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newgolddream added 01:37 - Aug 15

Smashin win and another clean sheet. After Tuesday's fiasco this was a great pick me up and suggests we can challenge for promotion this season. A couple of additions before the window would also give us more options in this tough division.
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Mick82 added 07:38 - Aug 15

Though we did everything but score. No cutting edge up front. Was disappointed to see Vinny make a start as the pairing of Sinclair and Barnett had been working well. Sort it out for next week Simpson.
-3


bridgem added 07:50 - Aug 15

Sadly nothing new from last season, new faces, new formation but the same old problems, too many injuries, give the ball away too easily and lack of pace
Its going to be a long season (again)
Michael
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antoknee64 added 10:36 - Aug 15

When will we accept that Ephraim is a quuality player and in both league games has provided and scored goals,my worry is when Buzz is fit will Hogan be dropped?.
Great result again,even though we are scoring goals it`s still obvious that a target striker is needed.
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Support added 14:17 - Aug 21

I thought Derby deserved at least a point. Unlucky Rams.
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qpr1962 added 17:45 - Aug 21

well another win so lets keep it up i think if warnock get the players we need it could be our year . great start but 12046 not great but poeple could be on hoilday .
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French_Hoops added 02:51 - Aug 22

I reckon that the back four had a pretty solid game, with a special mention for Orr.
Kenny is getting sharper and shows already glimses of the talent he had at Sheffield.
Derry was also on top of everything today. If he keeps on going like that, he will win me over.
Taarabt was excellent (those passes with his outside foot were a delight!) and Helguson is linking well and should have had a hat-trick.
Buzsaky looked like he's going to enjoy when we play like that too!
Kenny 7, Orr 8, Connolly 7, Gorkss 7, Hill 7, Ephraim 7, Derry 8, Faurlin 7, Taarabt 9, Helguson 8, Mackie 7. Buzsaki 6, Leigertwood 5, German 5.
As for the low attendance, it is always more or less the same at this time of the year (or throughout the season). We're only almost at full capacity when we play at home on Boxing Day or against a big name which I don't think will happen this year...
I reckon the next few games will be decisive if we want the team to keep their confidence: Derby away will be a real test as they're on a poor run and already desesperately need a result, Middlesbrough is also a (supposedly) strong contender and Ipswich looks like a direct concurent this year...
In Warnock we trust! I'm wondering whom he might add... (what about Boyd from Petersborough?)
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ThreeLions added 03:05 - Aug 22

robbed
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Mick82 added 07:57 - Aug 22

Shocking yesterday. I expected better from the players and wanted to see some passion from the side. We are going to struggle if the lads carry on like that. Chesterfield is another game so we need to forget this and move on.

1/10
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markeastwood17 added 08:31 - Aug 22

It has been a few years since I've seen Leeds play that quality of football. We totally dominated Millwall and should have scored 6. Still worried about the defence though, particularly Naylor who was awful in the first half and Bessone who was average at best throughout. We still seem to be conceding sloppy goals and at this level we can't afford to do that, so I'd drop Naylor and give Bruce a chance. Can't see Larry dropping the captain though.

On a separate note, I had to laugh when I saw the team news on MOTD for the Arsenal vs Blackpool game. Ex Leeds donkey Stephen Crainey at left back and Theo Walcott on the right wing. Surprised they only scored 6!
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Yorkshire_Dale added 11:30 - Aug 22

Very poor attendance for what was an entralling game all round.

Good passing and moving from both sides but Dale missing the chance to register when on top for long period of the 1st half.
Thought Jonah contained the Pesky Perks for a while but he got going in the end and was snapping at every thing and everyone in usual fashion.

Joey T showed glimses but ended up falling about and was rightfully subbed and the readjusted team did well until the sucker punch.

Holness is the new McArdle......good but there is alaways a mistake or two there if pressured......his distribution was much better than against H'pool.

Well done the 2 little fellas...Tutte and Redshaw,give em a start against Brum Hilly
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Birchy915 added 22:19 - Aug 26

Great game lads, pity about the penalty but if we can play like that against a Premiership club, who can't we beat?
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qpr1962 added 22:39 - Aug 26

yet again its looks like we going lose out on big players .so good start is all for nothing
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poppa added 23:15 - Aug 26

B'ham fan here just registered to say I thought you played well and were unlucky tonight. Dawson and particularly O'Grady were impressive. Best of luck for the season.
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poppa added 23:17 - Aug 26

B'ham fan here just registered to say I thought you played well and were unlucky tonight. Dawson and particularly O'Grady were impressive. Best of luck for the season.
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Syke_Dale added 23:48 - Aug 26

Watched the game on Sky, thought we played very VERY well. Unfortunate with the penalty (that should never have been). However if we continue to play like we did tonight then we have very few fears for the forth coming season. UP THE DALE.
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pnc4eva1 added 00:03 - Aug 27

Very proud. Out played and out fought so called superstar internationals for most of the game.

Despite the most diabolical linesman I've seen in years we almost pulled off a shock.
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ColDale added 17:22 - Aug 28

Great performance. Result never in doubt
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qpr1962 added 17:23 - Aug 28

well done to derby but QPR never give up to the end
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monksd103 added 18:15 - Aug 28

Well that's what happens when you play in such a negative way. You'll have a half empty stadium if you keep on playing that kind of football - time wasting at any opportunity and faking injury. The ref was ridiculous and if he'd played the 8 minutes injury time that there should have been we could have nicked it. Come on you r's!
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davidr1348 added 19:33 - Aug 28

well it was an unlucky end to a good performance in my opinion.Such a asame we couldnt hang on and go top but still undefeated.The positives were fantastic performances from Dave Mooney,Kem Izzet and Mark Cousins but most of all moons.I taught he was fantastic especially in the 1 half setting up several attacking chances and taking his goal very well.I wish a bigger crowd would turn out and support the lads!!!
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pedrodale added 09:54 - Aug 29

Cometh the hour cometh the man the captain strikes back.
He looks like more like King Eric every day
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pedrodale added 10:04 - Aug 29

Well done the Captain for another One two, once again the officials dismiss a lower league team in a cup match I dont think he would have given a penalty if we hadnt just scored
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Spot51 added 13:59 - Aug 29

St. Upendous.
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harrythehatter added 16:49 - Aug 29

very poor performance from county ,lacklustre,feeble .
Players are going to HAVE to improve even putting some effort in .
It may only be league2 but they should be priviged to wear the shirt ,the wages may not be the best but it is much easier than working for a living as some players will find out.
We must give the owners a chance this is a marathon ,not a sprint and we are only 4 games into the season
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eusebio added 09:51 - Aug 30

Great win but it should have been more....AP to go (posted 29.08.10)
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crazyface added 12:22 - Sep 1

Lame match with two teams that were low on actual skill but high on endeavour. I cannot remember any passing move from either team consisting of more than three passes. This is due to the fact that neither of them were good enough to do this. Macc won due to a well struck goal from Vinni who nonchalantly clipped the ball past the keeper after being put through on the 42 minute. Morcombe missed a sitter in the second half with a free header at the far post being nodded onto the said post, an amazing bit of skill as it would of been easier to knock it in. The ball then bounced across the Macc goal to Morecombes lumbering "striker" Rundle how somehow put the ball wide from inside the six yard box. Again, an amazing bit of skill. Mr MacIlroy should explain to his team that the object is to ensure the ball goes between the uprights and the crossbar.
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davidr1348 added 17:26 - Sep 4

a super scrappy win for the Us today and hard working performances from every player today.Now in the play-off places we can push for promotion no prop now maybe even auto promotion


CMON THE U`S
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hxdale added 18:22 - Sep 4

I'm going after a very solid performance at the back, Craig Dawson, just pips it... Must say so many good performers today..
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Hugh_Jarce added 21:29 - Sep 4

Total lack of cohesion and any form of leadership. Dreadful. To cap it all Football Genious Wilko at 0-2 takes off his only attacking threat and replaces him with a left back. Stunning.
Can't remember feeking so pissed off since relegation from the Championship. Take our time to pick a new manager ? - we can't afford to procrastinate with this rudderless ship
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wessex_exile added 17:03 - Sep 6

I've already posted some of this on the board, but overall an uninspiring match by and large, but that shouldn't detract from the actual performance of the U's, which perversely was really quite good across the board. Henderson and Izzet are the only players I've marked down, the former because he was largely absent from the game for long periods, and Izzy for no other reason than he nearly (should have) cost us the win with his wayward pass. Thank god Cousins stood tall driving Byfield further wide than he wanted to be to spare Kemi's blushes, because it would have tarnished what was otherwise another solid midfield performance from the Col U munchkins. Bond, Wilson and Mooney continue to demonstrate just why we've made the right decision in John Ward, Wilson's cross for the goal was simply perfect.

In the end, a hard-fought but definitely well-deserved 3pts for the U's.

As a final P.S. to the day, I was chatting with a elderly gentleman from Wolves on the train back from Bescot to New Street, who had returned to England for the first time after emigrating to Australia over 40 years ago. He agreed that it was the right result for the match, but also commended us (and Walsall) on the spirit that the match was played out in - very fair, not overly dirty or aggressive - all in all a pleasing day out at the football for the gentleman, who returns to Australia this week. The reason we started chatting in the first place? - well, just before leaving for Australia all those years ago, the last game of football he got to see - Walsall v Colchester at the old Fellows Park (must have been 25th Nov 1967 I reckon). When he knew his travel plans, and compared them with fixture lists, he knew he just had to make it the first (only actually) match when he got back as well.
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qpr1962 added 18:35 - Sep 11

well its just keeps going on 4 wins and a draw i thought middlesbrough would be biggest test so far but it mite be ipswich
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BromleyHoop added 10:43 - Sep 12

Thoroughly enjoyable. Even in the first half, when it was more of an even contest, I knew we would get a result 'cos we'd made the better chances. 'Boro didn't create anything and Gorkks just battered Boyd out of the game. I can't see how Connolly can be dropped for Hall after that performance. Very impressed with Helgusson's work rate even at 3 -0 up. Crowd fantastic and I even thought the ref was pretty good. If I had to find something that I wasn't overly impressed with, and this is nit picking, it's Bradley Orr. His positional sense was not what it could have been and I thought he should have got forward a bit more.
We just might be at the start of a truly brilliant season.
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qpr1962 added 22:36 - Sep 14

what a win mackie was fantastic all night two great goals and kyle walker had great first game for the Rs .And win at lpswich so keep up you Rss
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bridgem added 23:01 - Sep 14

Time to despair, bottom three and the manager losing my support, we sell to teams above us and buy or loan from those below, plus Vaughn who was supposed to come to us scores 3, his wages must be too high for us and Palace are broke. Time for change
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newgolddream added 23:07 - Sep 14

A win over Ipswich has been a long time coming and continues our fantastic start to the season. Six goals for Mackie already and a succession of comfortable wins in a tough division. This is what dreams are made of. Come on u R's.
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quickpassrotter added 01:11 - Sep 15

Brilliant performance tonight (again). Outstanding all across the park. <ackie's turn to be 'unplayable' tonight. Derry again excellent as was Matthew C. Helguson led the line well. The young lad Walker just fitted in as if he had played 100 games or so for us - what a prospect. Good that Buzz got game time, and his thunderbolt ''goal'' should have stood I think but the ref was a little to quick to award the pen, which HH slotted in anyway. Just hope that Faurlin's injury is not too serious. Great stuff !
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antoknee64 added 19:28 - Sep 15

BOSH were unstoppable,Mackie your already the bargain buy of the season fantastic enthusiasm and what a great heart,long may you reigne.Well done Kyle Walker looked like hes been with the squad since pre-season plz stay longer.Superb perfomance by Matt Connelly maturing every game and Gorkes is a great player to learn from.Fingers croosed that Faurlin`s injury is not too serious,maybe Rowley might edge in for Sat game.
Looking forward to every game and ready for the odd slip-up.
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PVFC_78 added 18:03 - Sep 18

Erm, it was Marc Richards who scored twice, not Justin! And Jemal Johnson came on in the second half, not Bell-Baggie!
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splurty added 19:55 - Sep 18

Much better team shape , passing moving from 30 minute mark onwards , barney and ricky looked fairly sharp . Adkins got Morgan to drop off and grab the game which is a very good sign .I am convinced it will come , we deserved to win against an organised Colchester side ,much better substitutions made at the right time . With the addition of some pace/cover up front in the loan Market and a clever centre mid player , we will storm up the league .Well done nigel coys
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qpr1962 added 20:14 - Sep 18

kenny and mackie are buys off season so far its best start i ever see to season but there is 39 matchs to go and its going be hard but come you Rss
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qpr1962 added 11:10 - Sep 19

I listen Sousa on BBC sports what bad loser he QPR was nasty team no Sousa you lost very good team .
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johnfallen added 22:07 - Sep 19

A very fair report, (thats from a lcfc fan) but why the digs about the stadium? pathetic....depressing? really?.....if you think the ground is unsafe, you have a duty to report it to health and safety executive.....seriously.... built on the cheap? have you looked at your ground? no chance of that being overloaded, it never gets filled sadly....reminds me of the moon, no atmosphere....( just a little dig)....
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Northernr added 13:11 - Sep 21

John - It's a long running bug bear of mine, loads of QPR fans on here pull me up about it as well. I hate the new grounds that were all bunged up around the same time at Boro, Derby, Leicester, Southampton, Coventry etc. I hate them because by and large they're in the middle of nowhere (because the land is cheap), they have dreadful parking and train links and they have no atmosphere whatsoever because by and large they're 8000 seats or so too big for the team they house and the stands are all miles from the pitch which results in vast open spaces of silence.

Most of all though they all look the bloody same - the only difference between southampton and leicester is the colour of the seats, likewise boro and derby. It's just so depressing. Your football club is your identity and every football club should be unique. Thanks to the ground moves Derby, leicester and coventry all sort of blend into one midlands blancmange of mediocrity.

Examples of grounds I like - Portman Road, Carrow Road, Bramall Lane. Successfull modernised without compromising their individuality or moving out of the town centre where all the pubs and restaurants are. And yes, Loftus Road. Looking its age and increasingly not fit for purpose but it's got 100 pubs or eateries within 15 minutes walk, five tube stations on two different lines, one overground station, one motorway and a host of bus routes all within walking distance. And it's different, there's no other ground like it.

New grounds used to be unique too - huddersfield, bolton, millwall. But somewhere along the line some boring accountant got hold of this one size fits all design that means about a dozen teams in this country now play in identical grounds in the middle of retail parks or old gas works. I'd be gutted if QPR ever ended up with one of them.

And it does wobble under your feet, very noticeably.
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qpr1962 added 17:39 - Sep 25

six points clear gets better and better come on you Rss
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jfk added 10:49 - Sep 26

Poor first half. The atmosphere was quiet and there was a building tension that seemd to reach the players. I guess that's what raised expectation can do. Couldn't keep posession going forwards, and didn't press when we lost posession, so Doncacster made alot of the play. That said, I think the defence all played well (the odd falling over aside) and the only real threat was from the Rovers freekcick - and that brought a fantastic save by Kenny, an an incredible clearance off the line by Hill from the follow-up.

The performance, and the atmosphere, improved second half even before the goal. Ephraim and Mackie were both working hard to put rovers more under pressure, and giong forwards we started to show a bit more threat.

The goals, when they came, were all fairly soft defensively but I wasn't compliaining. Didn't think it was a penalty, and neither did Helguson, who picked himself up and stuck it in the net. Lucky we scored the pen.

All in all we were good for the points in the end, but 3-0 was a bit harsh on Rovers. Not that I'm too bothered - we're top of the league!!!!!! :)



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SaintFlyer added 16:05 - Sep 26

Good gutsy performance that showed the team spirit is back and that we have a few options off the bench to match
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SaintNick added 16:06 - Sep 26

I have been critical of Kelvin but I have to hold my hand up his last kick of the match save was top drawer
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qpr1962 added 22:26 - Sep 28

can not win them all millwall came to QPR with game plan and they got what they came for a draw .But we are still six points clear
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HamptonR added 00:14 - Sep 29

The ref needed to grow a set of balls!
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Troy_17 added 09:39 - Sep 29

I'm in two minds about who to blame...
The game was crying out for us to switch to 451 after we 'luckily' went ahead 4-1. We palyed some good stuff in that 20 minute spell, but before and after in the first half we were getting overrun with their runners from midfield feeding off Parkin's holdup play.
The change in formation never came. If Amdy Faye isn't going to play in this game, when is he going to play?
On the other hand in Grayson's defence, in his post match interview he highlighted all of these concerns, and said he gave the lads a rollicking at HT for not trying to close the game down. So the players must take their share for not doing that.
The formation was possibly less to blame in the second half, with Hume joining Parkin in tormenting our backline once we had to push forward, with their midfielders now embarrassingly not needed as much!
All in all, just a terrible performance all round. Possibly only Somma enhanced his reputation, good movement and an excellent strike for his second.
Changes afoot I'm sure for Sat, which is now a huge game. I would have been happy to write it off had we won tonight, but a point and solid reaction (as we got at Doncaster) is now needed, otherwise it'll be a difficult two week break...
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SaintNick added 09:40 - Sep 29

We would have taken 4 points from two away games before sheff weds, a pity we gave it away last night when we should have won
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Spiritof67 added 09:29 - Sep 30

Lee Probert a Premiership Ref! He was so inconsistant - what a joke!
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tazzydjr added 14:10 - Sep 30

This was a very competitive match according to some of the 4,200 Huddersfield Town fans what attended at Spotland stadium that night. But in every Rochdale Fans eye's this would be "A Night to Remember" with a amazing clean sheet for the Rochdale Keeper Josh Lillis and there were Three Goals scored By Jason Kennedy, John-Louis Akpa Akpro who signed from The Blue Square Conference side Grimsby Town during the summer.Including The Rochdale Fans Highly Rated Star Super Chris O'Grady who signed from Oldham Athletic in the summer Transfer window, who scored the winning Goal against Northampton at Spotland stadium to give the club its League One status in the N-power Football League which where Formly known as The CocaCola Football League and he has been scoring Goals in League One since Rochdale's Promotion. This Match also saw Two Former Rochdale Players Return to Spotland Jordan Rhodes and Anthony Plikington, which saw the likes of Dean Smalley, Newly Loanee from Oldham Athletic make a impact during the Match and Chris Goodall showing footwork and movement during The Match but it wasnt such a good Match for Anthony Elding who made a impact in the Carling Cup scoring against Barnsley which saw Rochdale get a trip to Premiership outlet Birmingham City, where Rochdale where unlucky thanks to a penalty given by The refferee which clearly wasnt a penalty. Even though Huddersfield Town had majority prosession of the Ball on the Night they couldnt seem to score, this saw Rochdale Dominate, the last minutes of the Match.

The Next Trip for Rochdale will be tuff trip to Exeter city St James Park yeah not Newcastle United St James Park no matter how much Rochdale Fans would love a trip there But Exeter city, St James who got Promoted in 08/09 and have managed to hold on to there league One status ever since.

Rochdale AFC 3-0 Huddersfield Town FC

Attendence 6,121
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qpr1962 added 17:29 - Oct 2

never say die .i think kyle walker had great game a win a win . with the others players coming back after the brake
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BromleyHoop added 18:28 - Oct 2

gorkss a rock, derry superb again, not adel's best day and buzz out of sorts. Fans were fantastic, a great win which was totally deserved. U rrrr's
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extratimeR added 19:17 - Oct 2

Kyle performance pure class, the chest back to Kinney, and general pace and positional sense, as good as I have seen since the days of Dave Clemence.

Does giving shirt to fans mean final performance?
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nealeadams added 20:16 - Oct 2

A good professional performance, well done.

How Eddie Howe can question the penalties I don't know, both were nailed ons. Had the referee let Puncheon carry on with his one on one instead of pulling the game back for a Saints free kick, we would have also scored from open play. That would also have done wonders for his confidence.

No question about the sending off either, in fact he was lucky not to go for the first foul on Harding.
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loftboy added 19:43 - Oct 3

I thought we sold 3000 Clive?
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RangersAreBack added 10:34 - Oct 4

I thought Gorkss was immense. The number of clearances under pressure from practically under his own crossbar was unreal. It took some cynical tactics to reduce his effectiveness and this ultimately cost us the equaliser.
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crazyface added 09:47 - Oct 6

We were completely outclassed by a far superior footballing team.
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qpr1962 added 23:32 - Oct 16

we can not score a home 2 games now not the end of world are team found out how play I not getting carried away where we are but still unbeaten .
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durham_exile added 11:02 - Oct 17

After the disappointment of last week it was back to the draw specialists the U's who remained unbeaten away from home.
Probably the best weather ever at Boundary Park, sunshine and shirt sleeves the order of the day.
Both Williams played well, Tom showed some good touches wasn't afraid to push forward and produced some decent crosses, particularly second half. Ben must improve his distribution but shot stoppping was very good.
Kem Izzet didn't have the best of days, he looked laboured and lost out in the centre of the park too mnay times.
I do hope that Andy Bond is not out for too long following a nasty challenge from Furman which originally was not even given as a free kick by the referee but after Dave Mooney kicked the ball out the ref changed his mind and booked the Latic.
Vincent played well and was also subject to some harsh challenges resulting in an injury delay.
Most disapointing player was Woody who perhaps was not fit but seemed disinterested and failed to get involved in the game.
Dave Mooney worked hard throughout and with Vincent created our two best opportunities.
Problem is he is not going to add to his goalscoring record without better service.
When Hendo came on he was slow and failed to outpace the defenders unlike Vincent who does have genuine pace.
Verdict a deserved point but if we are to make a sustained push for promotion these single points must be turned into wins.
And finally when are we going to see the real Kayode Odejayi - he looks the part, has great strength and prerence but must be
lacking in confidence - a goal is long overdue.

Up the U's
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SomersetHoops added 15:01 - Oct 17

Always going to be a tight game and Norwich were acting as spoilers for every creative move we made - I think this could have been punished more effectively by the ref, except it was Mr Page who has something against QPR . I rate Hogan, but he hasn't got the physical presence to deal with teams like Norwich and think Pat Ag should have come on as a replacement for him at half time. We lost some of our creative flair when we replaced Buzz with Leigertwood who showed signs of being short of games by giving the ball away too often. Kyle Walker was MOM for me and some of his crosses could have come to more if we had H and Pat in the middle for the whole of the second half.
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SomersetHoops added 15:40 - Oct 17

Sorry I meant Mr Penn - I wouldn't want to malign Mr Page
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qpr1962 added 21:51 - Oct 19

the goals are dry up .Some how do not think we are going be top six by end of the season .we need two find a top striker in January window .but we are unbeaten
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qpr1962 added 22:03 - Oct 22

it takes pat to get us out of jail .ONE player was crap it was adel taarabt he playing like last season crap . there's was another 10 players on field. warnock what's to get hold him tell him its a team game .But one thing we are still unbeaten and club record so come on you Rsss
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Rs4life added 23:09 - Oct 22

Taarabt was ridiculously greedy, and no one particularly stood out apart from youn Kyle Walker. Paddy Kenny made some good saves too. Hopefully with Hulse now back in the reckoning we shld get some more goals next week.
0


NineteenCanteen added 03:21 - Oct 24

A far from convincing performance until the double substition. Surely no argument now that Lambert is a luxury we can't afford when he is such a poor threat on goal and Puncheon is Chamberlain's much poorer understudy on the right.

Chaplow also had a poor game as did Schneiderlin whose shooting was really poor. Davis, Chamberlin, Fonte, Lallana and Butterfield are really the only players who should be confident of retaining their place for next week and surely we have reached the time for change.
0


theallseeingeye added 19:20 - Oct 24

Lambert was poor, no arguing, however we can't forget what he did last season, and our best players need to play.

The performance was very poor, which makes the win even more important, they do say sign of a good team, is one that can win, when playing badly.

The subs did change the game, and gave us an impetus, that finally saw us over the line. Lallana, although a little quiter than I hoped, is pure class, and I fear how the saints would tick without him.
0


Kiwifiedpom added 21:16 - Oct 24

Football is an uncompromising game and success should be ruthlessly sought. There fore being nice to players is only good for physcological reasons.
The anecdote about a young player seeking managers approval was told he'd played like Mathews and added as a put down Jesse Mathews not Stan Mathews.
Saints did not play well today and one has to wonder what is going on at Staplewood during the week.
Fonte and Seaborne were woeful the centr midfield were non existent Puncheon was to predictable. Harding was awful defensively except Lallana, Butterfield, and the two subs it was a very poor display and I think there will wholesale changes coming.
0


ourkid1984 added 10:47 - Oct 25

I think some people expect too much from League 1 players. Wasn't Oldham above us before the game and playing well and with confidence? Did we not just come off a dissapointing defeat and performance?

In my opinion we started really well and after 15-20 minutes we could of been 3 up. Did no one see Puncheon hitting the post or at least 2 good saves their keeper made? I also saw that we dominated play. It wasn't until they scored from one chance that was a lack of concentration from our defence that we started to not play as well as it looked like their confidence was even higher and ours must of been extremely low.

I saw the signs that happened before we scored our first goal. It wasn't ever going to be a case of a super sub it was coming down to our greater fitness. Oldham looked tired with 10 minutes of the first half left and it showed as we started to dominate again and their legs couldn't handle Lallana's extra skill as they fouled him with a minute left. There came the 1st goal and I knew that come the 70th minute they would be getting tired again and so this proved.

Oxlaide Chamberlain did make a massive inpact but I'm not so sure that he would of been able to run through their defence as easy as he did at the start of the game, they looked tired and it showed as more of our players were getting more room and space so much so that every time Lallana go on the ball he done at least one trick knowing that their players could not keep up.

Lets get it right we know that Oxlade Chamberlain is a great talent but we have also seen him play for too long in games and produce nothing much. Adkins has talked about having inpact players on the bench and that's exactly what he is at the moment.

Would people say that Puncheon was poor and too predictable if he had of scored, which he came very close to doing more than once.
0


ourkid1984 added 10:49 - Oct 25

I think some people expect too much from League 1 players. Wasn't Oldham above us before the game and playing well and with confidence? Did we not just come off a dissapointing defeat and performance?

In my opinion we started really well and after 15-20 minutes we could of been 3 up. Did no one see Puncheon hitting the post or at least 2 good saves their keeper made? I also saw that we dominated play. It wasn't until they scored from one chance that was a lack of concentration from our defence that we started to not play as well as it looked like their confidence was even higher and ours must of been extremely low.

I saw the signs that happened before we scored our first goal. It wasn't ever going to be a case of a super sub it was coming down to our greater fitness. Oldham looked tired with 10 minutes of the first half left and it showed as we started to dominate again and their legs couldn't handle Lallana's extra skill as they fouled him with a minute left. There came the 1st goal and I knew that come the 70th minute they would be getting tired again and so this proved.

Oxlaide Chamberlain did make a massive inpact but I'm not so sure that he would of been able to run through their defence as easy as he did at the start of the game, they looked tired and it showed as more of our players were getting more room and space so much so that every time Lallana go on the ball he done at least one trick knowing that their players could not keep up.

Lets get it right we know that Oxlade Chamberlain is a great talent but we have also seen him play for too long in games and produce nothing much. Adkins has talked about having inpact players on the bench and that's exactly what he is at the moment.

Would people say that Puncheon was poor and too predictable if he had of scored, which he came very close to doing more than once.
0


qlrken05 added 19:42 - Oct 25

A Brilliant game to watch, i thought Nicky Adams played really well,its always great to see COG on the score sheet, and as for Gary Gary Gary Jones, Well he just gets better and better, Scott Wiseman and Joe Widdowson played exceptionally well again, when we get the passing going it is a dream to watch, Well done the Whole team, and Hilly & Flickers too.
0


qpr1962 added 17:08 - Oct 30

the strikers are misfiring to many draws so i think we need a top forward in the window .Do not think we are going to be in top 6 at the end of the season but we are still unbeaten
0


RBlock added 18:26 - Oct 30

Hhhhm, im not sure. Taarabt was starting to look better today than he has been in the last few draws. He linked up with Hogan a bit better and gave us a glimpse of his early season form that we so sorely miss. On another the note the ref today was absolutely atrocious, the standard of refeering in the championship on a whole is abismal.
0


Yorkshire_Dale added 18:38 - Oct 30

4 defeats in October,all by the odd goal to southern based teams and only solitary win against D&R.......are we getting a name as poor travellers?

Badly need to get a result on Tuesday,.........and then again on Friday.

0


HamptonR added 23:06 - Oct 30

Hulse wasn't as effective as Helguson, Carlisle won most of the aerial battles.
Ephraim was absent for most of the game and Smith looked very good when he came on.
The ref had a shocker, he allowed Burnley to waste time, hassle him and at times tell him what to do, perhaps he thought they were still in the premier league.
0


wessex_exile added 01:30 - Oct 31

A very brief report as I'm in my bed ready for the land of nod. Not a vintage performance, but one full of grit, application and determination. Bournemouth dominated possession but utterly lacked any cutting edge and failed to capitalise on their neat midfield triangles. We showed them how to do it, and as a result fully deserved the win. The fans were magnificent, the ref one of the worst I've seen, ever...
0


jfk added 12:08 - Oct 31

I thought Burnley looked very strong at the back, and we kept on trying the same long balls with not much variety and not much success - not helped by the ref giving a free kick to them whenever a QPR player jumped for the ball. Some good stuff from Taarabt, and a superb goal, but he vanished a bit in the 2nd half. Hulse didn't do well against the defence/ref, and Ephraim was invisible (but I think that was more to do with the style we were playing). Derry and the back four looked good again, and Kenny made an unbelievable double save. Still unbeaten, but need to start winning again
0


crazyface added 11:28 - Nov 1

An exciting game made even better by a ref who was completely clueless. We won because Burton were devoid of passion, even after getting a goal back. Ridiculous first goal, the second was a thumping free kick. Our "forwards" are useless. Thank god for Hamza, otherwise we would be staring at relegation again and maybe again soon unless this freaky run of results (wins) continues.
-8


LostBoys added 03:35 - Nov 4

Very enjoyable all rund particularly Chamberlain
-2


Yorkshire_Dale added 00:12 - Nov 6

Worst defeat in club's 100 year odd history!

No pride.....inept performance.Money back on Trades Description Act?

Chris Dunphy,if the Disney Channel offer to televise any more games tell em to do one!

"we don't do cup games"

I've had my say......I'm sick of football this week.Off to bed!
0


Cleedale added 08:11 - Nov 6

Must admit to feeling sick this morning.

OK - let's have a whinge - Dale should have had a penalty and FCUM basically cheated to get to the next round when the ref. was perfectly placed as the player kicking the ball out of Lillis' 2-hand grasp!! What a bad time for referee's decisions against Dale!

Definitely time to bring in some in-the-stands replay system as Football is getting crazy with incompetent and dross outcomes.

This really does have to be sorted!
0


PDIDDY added 08:48 - Nov 6

reffferreeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee
0


ROLLER63 added 15:05 - Nov 6

For once i cannot comment on this F--K UP of a game, but what i would say is that hilly has reached his peak with this club now he is at a loss on how to play teams that we call minnows lol JOKE !!!!
0


jdalec added 17:54 - Nov 6

Where to start?? Had to explain to my son who has yet only really experienced joy as a dale fan that there is far more pain to being a dale fan than there is happiness !! Last night proved that. A Night to Forget. Up until last night the jury was out so to speak on Elding, the jury has retrurned, he is not what we were hoping for , flat footed and no where near sharp enough to play at the level we want to be competing at. CO'G had a dissapointing night and until Akpa came on we couldn't get hold of the game. Kennedy and Jones were indifferent and Holness and Widdowson had bad games. That said FC UTD came and went for it, they were up for it and we weren't. I thought the stewarding was really poor, allowing 3 pitch invasions whilst we had an over zealous steward in the sandy jack booting up and down chastising anyone who wasn't stood to attention !!
Like I said a night to forget and erase from my memory
0


RBlock added 17:54 - Nov 6

Honestly, is Jaime Mackie human? the way he was running up and down the park for the full 90 was astounding! He was playing right back and chasing down their right back. His stamina and ability to keep goin will prove essential this season. What did people think of Orrs red? it was a two footed challenge but i didnt see him touch the man. Adel seems to be coming back into good and Derry was absolutely first class today!
-2


qpr1962 added 17:54 - Nov 6

Good win shame orr got sent off .We like playing with ten man against reading and we are still unbeaten come on you Rssss
-2


quickpassrotter added 18:25 - Nov 6

brilliant performance. we were class today and we worked so hard. adel was practically unplayable, Faurlin back to his best and Tommy smith made a big difference. Could have and should have been more than 3 even with our ten men. Referee Tanner was poor again, and we do seem to get them at Loftus Road. Must have really boosted our confidence that we played the way we did before and particularly after Orr's sending off.
-2


Mattnme added 21:06 - Nov 6

It was one of those games where it was a real struggle to pick a motm because so many people contributed. In the end I have to give it to the lunatic that is Mackie. The boy does not stop running. He slaughtered their left back and there was even one moment in the second half where he had a one on one coming in from the left.
-2


Mattnme added 21:09 - Nov 6

Plus he kept legs off the pitch. We would n't have got that result and might have even lost. It was back to watching Rangers of a month ago.
0


jfk added 21:09 - Nov 6

First half was a great game of football, and pretty even. Reading had alot of posession, but we just defend so well these days. All of the back four are so solid, and Derry in front of them gave as good a display today in that position as I can remember from anyone - and I've been coming for 35 years. Going forwards, we can just cut teams apart at times. Taraabt was sublime and Faurlin was pure class, and for all the Reading posession we looked much more likely to score - and should have (I really have to see that Hulse miss again before I can really figure out what happened). Definite penaltly and well worth one-up.

From where I was sat in the Loft, Orr's challenge didn't look bad. I thought the Reading guy meg'd him and ran straight through him and went down. I could understand the free-kick, but a red? Maybe from a different angle it looked worse. I did hear a rumour at half time that it was for foul and abusive language, but the red came out pretty quick for it to have been that.

Second half was just fantastic. At half time the talk was about who would Warnock take off to make room for Legs at right-back and try to hold on to the 1-0, but what a masterstroke leaving Mackie in there. The guy's a machine! Up and down the right flank tirelessly, and half way through the second half he even pops up in the inside left channel. Taraabt and Faurlin continued to run rings round them but the whole team, from front to back, and including Kenny put in such a shift to win the match it was incredible - especially to step up again and score another when Reading had pulled the goal back. Great to see Smith on the scoresheet, and well deserved

What a great atmosphere too. The crowd really responded to the way the team played - and the sending off probably helped from that point of view too

Just a brilliant afternoon out
-2


French_Hoops added 21:10 - Nov 6

Back to winning ways after decent perfomances against good teams previously.
What pleases me most about today is the mentality glowing out of the side. Even with 10 men you could feel they wouldn't let this one slips up.
Clive, how exactly & who rates officially the referee & linesmen? The FA claims transparency but you never know how a ref has performed in their eyes...
-2


jfk added 21:12 - Nov 6

Loved it when Kenny kept moving the goal kicks from one side of the 6-yard box to the other to kill time. One of things you hate when the other team do it, of course, but had to laugh
-2


jfk added 21:13 - Nov 6

Nice goal for Reading. I can say that now.
-2


Southcoast_R added 22:23 - Nov 6

Brilliant performance and Warnock got it completely right. Faurlin and Derry were superb but really the whole team deserves the accolades cos they were a real team, battling, covering and putting themselves behind the ball when Reading were in possession (who were niggly and nasty all afternoon). As for the ref well...... Credit to them all and Jamie Mackie you are superhuman!
-2


SheffieldSteve added 00:22 - Nov 7

I can only add a big agreement to the above. The 'extra man' provided by the crowd certainly did happen today, Mackie was so fired up, and still geeing the crowd up even AFTER the match!
Not that I want us to have terrible refs every match, and players sent off, but it's the sort of thing that winds up Loftus Road, if only it could happen more often whilst we have 11 players on the pitch... We'd be invincible ;-)
-2


gigiisourgod added 10:27 - Nov 7

A very proud day to be a superhoop.
-2


AshteadR added 10:32 - Nov 7

Cracking game - we were the better team throughout. Great tactics from Warnock - I was convinced that Tarbs or Smith would be taken off at half time.
-1


SomersetHoops added 16:04 - Nov 7

I was proud to be a QPR supporter on Saturday - the whole crowd of QPR supporters were sooo positive and gave it everything, especially after Bradley Orr was unfairly sent off. Both his feet were on the ground and all he did was to face up to the oncoming player - this should not have been a red card a doubtful yellow IMHO. As for Reading deserving a draw - in their dreams! It seemed their main tactic was to feign injury in an attempt to get our players sent off, unfortunately in the Bradley Orr case the ref. bought it. It was not just Taarabt who had a good game, Faurlin was superb so was Mackie, Derry & Conolly and I don't think we had a bad player on the pitch. Pat Ag looked very sharp when he came on, although I must defer to NW's judgement, perhaps he should be used a bit more.

I can't do a player rating because I'd probably give them all 9. We will meet stronger teams than Reading - Cardif on 27th for example, but on today's showing they can be beaten and hopefully will be by us.
-2


pedrodale added 19:15 - Nov 7

Sunday evening, cant even bring myself to give the player ratings. Yesterday I took the grandkids early morning and got out of Rochdale for about 12hrs just couldnt face anyone, what a shocker
0


HangerOn added 20:09 - Nov 7

As others have said, it was a fantastic team effort yesterday and everyone deserves an award for producing our best performance of the season so far.

Special mention has to be made of Jamie Nackie, who filled in admirably at right back and of Shaun Derry, who was the epitome of the midfield general all game. On almost any other day, Alejandro Faurlin would have earned the man of the match award: he was everywhere and combined skill with grit.

However, yesterday was no ordinary day. Adel Taarabt was simply unplayable: his tricks and flicks would have been re-run endlessly had they been performed by Messi or Ronaldo. He was my man if the match.
-2


Spot51 added 09:07 - Nov 8

St.Eal
0


qpr1962 added 22:23 - Nov 9

QPR saying is never say die still unbeaten come on you Rssss
0


Rodneylives added 19:26 - Nov 10

To save the match at the death after being reduced to ten men shows real spirit. Phew!
BTW, any news of our erstwhile captain Fitz Hall? He seems to have vanished off the face of the earth.
0


jpianezzola added 17:21 - Nov 13

Luciano Becchio Rocks. Simon Grayson is a genius. Go Leeds United
0


qpr1962 added 17:30 - Nov 13

well another draw .but still unbeaten come on you Rssss
0


jfk added 18:06 - Nov 13

Listened to a bit of it on the web site, but had to switch off coz I was too nervous. Really thought we would struggle, especially with the suspensions and injuries at the back, but that's a great result.
0


wessex_exile added 20:30 - Nov 13

Well that was an odd game - can't argue with the result, we were second best in most departments - can't even comment on two of the goals because I missed their first in the loo with my son, and ours (along with quite a few others) trying to beat the queue for a foot-long hotdog. Otherwise it was a U's that huffed and puffed but struggled to find a telling pass or good control at crucial moments. Swindon should have been 1 up early on with their one-on-one, but Williams did well, came out and stood up, and eventually pulled off a blinder. Should then have been 1-0 with their free-kick against the inside foot of the post, along the goal line and out for a goal kick on the other side (it was that close). But THEN, how did Odejayi miss his free header to put us 1-0 up. That rather set the pattern for the day - more or less soaking up lots of pressure, occasionally having a go on the break, but usually those rare chances stalling for want of a killer pass. By the end, it wasn't that bad a game, we had a better go second half, and could have nicked a point at the end, but it wouldn't have been the right result.
0


onedalefan added 20:37 - Nov 13

Pretty football doesn't win matches if there is no end product. We need a Dagnell or Le Fondre who knows where the goal is. The way things are going, we are going to be dragged into a religation fight.
0


LostBoys added 21:08 - Nov 13

I only listened on thev radio and it sounded dreadful
0


jdalec added 23:33 - Nov 13

totally agree, a really dissapointing day. Things started so optimistically for us , I thought we totally out played them in the first half, they looked like a set of pub players and were there for the taking. Second half was crap, the best thing to do next time we play in Sheffield is drop Joe Thompson off at the Meadowhall and tell him to be ready for 6. ''Premiership player in the making'', don't talk bollocks, the blokes about as much use as a bull with tits, and before anyone starts just remind me how many talnet scouts are watching him, i'll put you out of your misery NONE !!
0


SheffieldSteve added 08:56 - Nov 14

Have to say, we have nothing to worry about Forest this season, they were pretty poor, and playing for the draw, particularly towards the end of the match. We should have won though...
0


qpr1962 added 21:37 - Nov 15

Can you tell me why orr gets 3 match ban and matt gets a 1 match ban for straight red card
0


qpr1962 added 18:07 - Nov 20

good win back to the top come on you Rssssss
0


barryroch added 18:38 - Nov 20

A see saw match if ever there was one. Brilliant for the neutral but very nervy if you support Dale. Yet again another diabolical attendance. All the Dale players worked hard for the point gained after Swindon scored within 1 minute. Good performance and well deserved point,more of the same next week.
0


Yorkshire_Dale added 19:08 - Nov 20

Great game today with both teams contributing well.

The addition of Grant gave us a bit more up front and very,very cool with the goal.....well done fella.

Defense under severe pressure for periods.....our Midfield need more bite.How many times in 2nd half was the gippo Prutton allowed to waltz straight through our midfield to create chance after chance for Swindon???

We seemed scared to tackle him.



Still,happy with a point and I say again, a good game.

0


onedalefan added 19:32 - Nov 20

Thought Lillis was nervy throughout and reacted badly to the first minute shot. Holness and Dawson didn't have their usual confidence at the back. Missed Barry-Murphy in the middle although can't fault Jonah for workrate (a few wayward passes can be forgiven if you try) and deserved the goals. A couple of moments of good play by Thompson does not make an impressive display (official web site report) as still spends most of the time in his own world wondering why things are passing him by (Jonah, please advise him what effort is). Credit to O'Grady for his usual battling and hold up play and Grant could be the extra bit up front we need (Elding, are you watching).
0


jdalec added 20:02 - Nov 20

Agree with previous comments, Thompson once again AWOL for long periods of game couldn't quite get my head around the substitution bringing Grant (who was throwing his heart and soul into it) off and leaving Thompson on. Time to wake up Keith, Thompson is CRAP!!!
0


LostBoys added 22:43 - Nov 20

Very enjoyable afternoon only downside was we should have scored 8 goals
0


SheffieldSteve added 01:48 - Nov 21

Quite frankly, PNE were very poor, but we keep on not losing, and even winning very well today, including 2 cracking goals!
0


jfk added 10:23 - Nov 21

I never felt more like singing the blues, when rangers win, and chelsea - and cardiff - lose.... was going to add Swansea in there too but they just got away with it.

Looking forward to next weekend. U Rrrrs
0


plymhoop added 11:19 - Nov 21

even though we could have won by 6 or 7 i feel privileged to have witnessed tarabbts 2 goals today....kinda on a par with seeing sinclairs overhead against barnsley all those years ago.

memories are made of this.....
0


Charlie1 added 11:19 - Nov 21

PNE were awful but you have to beat what is infront of you. Tarby was superb. Was worried with Hall in the side but given he had a difficult afternoon with that fat lump of lard, thought he did well. Great stuff Rangers.
0


jpianezzola added 13:33 - Nov 21

Keep on fighting. Good point away. Go Leeds United
0


jpianezzola added 13:34 - Nov 21

Keep on fighting. Good point away. Go Leeds United
0


regjenkins added 23:35 - Nov 21

Need strengthening in some key areas, can't afford players to be off form in this leauge. Need to be ruthless all over the pitch, we are not here to make friends just to get the job done. That said another couple of seasons and things will be a bit different. U.T.D
0


crazyface added 08:37 - Nov 24

I have never ever seen a more inept tatical team selection than last night. Three centre halves holding hands, five across the middle, with Bolland playing on the right and Chalmers on the left. Reid was in the middle!? Bolland got sucked into his natural position of centre leaving a huge gap for Cheltenham to run into on their left side. Reid never got into the game at all. Draper was all over the place without Bolland by his side so we had nothing in the middle of the pitch. Hamza was left on the bench due to a twisted ankle apparently, but we were in such a mess he was brought on at half time. If he was fit enough for the bench he was fit enough to start. He didn't show any signs of injury whilst he was playing. Sinclair? Utter garbage. He runs as quick as a greyhound but greyhounds can't play football can they? Eh? Eh? Barnett worked his socks off but I'm afraid he missed a couple of sitters because he is not a natural goalscorer. We lost due to the fact Simoo made some very very bad tatical errors and showed us that he is not up to the job. Loads there due to the promotion and Simoo messed up big style. They won't be back. Another huge opportunity missed. Also I've vowed to miss the next home game if Sinclair is selected. I cannot watch such a pile of poo in my home teams shirt again. Just think of all the great Macc players who have worn the number 9 shirt in the past. It's a disgrace that he even gets on the pitch. Nope that's it for me, never ever again until Simmo goes or stops selecting Sinclair to start.
0


LostBoys added 09:56 - Nov 24

Missed chances again but another very good overall performance. A few still below their best - Lambert and Lallana particularly. The referee was one of the worst we have seen and also the lino who missed the Brighton offside by at least 5 yards - even the player himself stopped. Very enjoyable though.
0


onedalefan added 15:32 - Nov 25

Anyone know what the rant by Mr.Hill on BBC Radio Manchester yesterday was all about? If you missed it, BBC Iplayer the Breakfast show at 7.30 and 8.30.
0


qpr1962 added 17:46 - Nov 27

what a great win 5 points clear and another MOM by Adel taarabt come on you Rsssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssss
0


NorwayRanger16 added 19:29 - Nov 27

Brilliant game! Watched it on TV and you could hear the fans right on top of the game, fantastic atmosphere!
Think we were the best team overall, good to see the heads not drop going 1-0 down. NW is just fantastic at man management and getting the players agression level perfect time and time again.
Have to say that Kenny and Derry are really growing on my, my new favourites in the absence of Rowlands.
Looking forward to the report and your views Clive.
You R'sssssss, onwards and upwards! :-)
0


HollowayRanger added 19:44 - Nov 27

A word for the ref did well kept his nerve and didnt listen to bellends moaning and moaning and moaning! :)

great result well done whole team but thought a few played below par walker faurlin mackie soooooooo even better to see us beat our near rivals!!!!!!
0


colu_chip added 01:03 - Nov 28

It may not of been how we thought the game should of gone but, a wins a win at the end of the day. We shouldn't get to down on the team, after all we still won, we still need a goal scorer, Mooney is quality if we can sign him, but we could still do with another one besides, get rid of Liam Henderson.
Perhaps if we got more fans at the games it would boost the team, whats happend to the fans the attendances seem to be getting less and less, the community stadium should be a formidable place for other teams to come to. We need to get more fans going to the games
0


Rs4life added 03:35 - Nov 28

Listening on 94.9. What a game! One foot in the prem lets keep it up!
0


AshteadR added 11:39 - Nov 28

Cracking game - excellent result
0


jdalec added 12:26 - Nov 28

Great second half performance thought we played really well and were unlucky not to take all 3 points. Why oh why is Joe Thompson starting in front of Matty Done and Akpa Akpro?? We have got to start with our STRONGEST eleven and that will never include JT !!!!
More of the same lads and it won't be long before we are back to winning ways.
0


jfk added 12:57 - Nov 28

Brilliant. Great game, great atmosphere, great result. Thought we invited them onto us a bit too much after we went ahead, but some good defending, good keeping, and a slice of luck on the penalty decision gave us the win we deserved.

Looking forward to the FA Cup draw this evening. Probably get Cardiff.
0


antoknee64 added 13:04 - Nov 28

What a great game,Mackie,Smith and Tarradt didnt have their best games but because of our solid defence and Derry & Faurlin Cardiff looked no threat to Kenny atall.
Connolly for me was my MOTM he showed matureity,calmness and class when the Midget and Boothroyd were trying every trick to get passed him.Even when Chopra came on nobody in defence panicked and took care of all their attacks.
Fantastic atmosphere and even being stuck in X-block was a pleasure,kept those Sheep-shaggers quite for most of the game,had a laugh when they scored and 2 15yr old boys took their shirts off in the Lower School end,one had is shirt off hes skinny frame in seconds and hes fat mate just got hes shirt off in time for the re-start,row of 6 girls in front of me were laughing their heads off at them,funny moment.
So proud to be QPR and sorry to all R-block mates for leaving you for one game.
0


RBlock added 19:07 - Nov 28

@JFK
im not sure about a slice of luck, i believe we overcame various bad luck to get the result. Its true that Bothroyd should have had a penalty after Connolleys challenge, but early on Tarb's cross was blocked by a blatent hand ball. We were extremely unlucky not to get a 3 in the 90th, and had Clarke gone down as Adel would have im sure a penalty would have been given. Their goal was a clear offside call also. Cummmonnnn youuuu supeeeeeer
0


onedalefan added 20:26 - Nov 28

As much as I don't wish an injury on anyone, Thompson going off was the best thing to happen to us and suddenly we had 11 men on the pitch who realised that they could compete. Were you watching Mr.Hill, please give Matt Done a chance to show what he can do as he ran his socks off all match. Lets stop the pretty football, get at the opposition from the start. If we can keep Adams and Grant for longer, lets get the ball forward and with Jones supporting, the goals are going to come and with Dawson and Holness (the find of the season) the defense will look after itself.
0


Lazarus added 07:46 - Nov 29

Excellent result, but a few things stick in my mind:
Faurlin being outmuscled in midfield. He's a bit too small for the likes of Olofinjana.
Taarabt trying to go through the middle rather too often, and taking a (blocked) shot, rather than passing.
Bellamy splitting the defence a few times. He's a tw*t, but impressive on the day.
Cardiff's kick and run tactics - after Dave Jones saying during the week that's how the R's play, while his boys play on the floor.
The fantastic atmosphere. 'Shame it can't be like that for every match. The best team won!!!
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jfk added 17:36 - Nov 29

@Rblock
Chances are, if they'd got the pen, Kenny would have saved it anyway


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qpr1962 added 21:31 - Dec 10

bloody allfull but linesman whated put his glass on
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qpr1962 added 22:02 - Dec 10

linesmans should gone to specsafes
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qpr1962 added 22:05 - Dec 10

adel taaratt was at is best not he thinks he can win game on is own .watford came with game plan and play better and QPR lost
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chapelbackrow added 18:57 - Dec 11

Before todays match one of the fans sites reported that Ricky Lambert would not be playing today ----- how right they were, unfortunately he was on the pitch!!!!!
He led the line well ---- the whole team managed to follow his example and didn't bother turning up.
It looked as if they were all suffering from the Christmas party season.
NA you need to kick a*se & get them into shape.
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LostBoys added 20:35 - Dec 11

Dreadful and I did not find Davis play acting after the half time break very amusing - most keepers in the parks could have saved that mis hit scuffed shot.
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winchesterbob added 11:27 - Dec 12

Dismal display from back to front....
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devonranger added 21:51 - Dec 12

if rowly cant get on the pitch with derry off ,he ll be best off moving on ,dont want him to go but he must be better than walker in mid?
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crazyface added 08:34 - Dec 13

MTFC stunned the home crowd by actually scoring a goal early doors, but were soon made to pay by a fairly innocuous Gillingham team who looked at one point that all they had to do to score was put the ball into the Macc penalty area. The blame for this shocking performance is Simmo's and no other. He is tactically inept and has players playing in wrong positions. Nsala playing at right back FFS. He should be in the centre of the defence so that Bench can play in midfield. Lowe could have filled in at either full back position. Draper? God knows where he was supposed to be playing. At one point I thought he was our striker! Vinni? Again god knows where he was playing, I don't think even he knew. Least said about Sinclair the better. Why isn't Wedgebury given a game? Butcher came on into the second half and then vanished into thin air. We have a little £1 bet on the actual score every week and by 3.19pm we were all out of it. Simmo should be replaced before I am sent to the nut house. We are in the position we are in due to a little run we had, and now we are on another. Three losses on the bounce is not the way to be going into the Xmas period. All this has been coming a long time and we will have to start looking at teams below us again instead of the play-offs, which is where we were only three weeks ago, WITHOUT Sinclair.
Sack Simmo NOW.
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qpr1962 added 17:34 - Dec 18

get uses to losing because we need 20 goal striker in the window , remember we went to Doncaster last season and lost we did not win for 13 games .
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Doughnut added 21:36 - Dec 18

Bitter weather at Elland Rd. and a bitter scorline. Didnt think our strikers posed any threat, especially in the second half and they seemed comfortable winners. Gorkss made a bit of a leggy mess, which let Gradel in for the first. Didn't dominate midfield in any way and the attack was a bit of a wet lettuce. It would appear that the rest of the Championship has sussed out how to play us. Paddy was motm for me, which says a lot about our performance.
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I_Saw added 10:17 - Dec 19

Well we could have won. Had Pearson scored. Had Moore scored. Had we played the Second Half Team First. Had Bywater came rather then starting, stopping then being caught in no mans land for the second goal. Had we.....

All "Had We's" of course, all choices, continually making the wrong ones, after being lucky with Shefki Kuqi, we are now unlucky, rub of the green against us...

So Nigel says afterwards there's no one better at six foot three in the air than Luke Moore..... Why do I feel like a mushroom?

Perhaps Luke's a pilot, that might make sense!

Yesterday we lost because Long took his chances, rode his luck, we didn't. Long went down easily but then so does Kris Commons, you want your players to, you howl when the opposition do.... partisan passions.

Add a Tweetie- Pie referee who "Taut I Taw a Pussycat" in imaginaging free kicks for pushes and fouls that existed only in his mind. Not that he was biased he just thought he saw things that weren't there.

So we lost. Will we win next week? Will Pearson start? Will Davies be back? Will Luke Moore win a header?

One thing for sure we will all have a little groan with at least one element of the team selection come Doncaster....if the last few weeks are anything to go by.
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SW17_RRR added 14:49 - Dec 19

We've come a hella a long way but still have some distance to go...........uuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuurrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr''''ssssssssssssssssss! =) =0)
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qpr1962 added 20:36 - Dec 20

i do not think QPR will not going up. In window need two defenders and 20 goal striker .The 2 goal let in against leeds was school boy stuffs very poor .But warnock plays this 4-3-2-1 is not working now go back to 4-4-2
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mentalbl0ke added 16:36 - Dec 26

EVERYTHINGS BACK TO NORMAL....... 4-O TO THE SUPER HOOPS !!!!
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qpr1962 added 17:50 - Dec 26

back to winning ways so come you RSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSS
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antoknee64 added 13:46 - Dec 27

Ironic that Swans were the best team i seen play on our patch,at the start of the season we were playing passing football like they did yesturday,differance was that we were finishing our chances with Mackie,HH,Ephraime and Adel all chipping in.I still would like to see us play the ball from the back on occasions,look at what Kyle Walker did to them on a few occasions yesturday,the long ball from Paddy to HH is okay but not everytime,even so we were still by far the better team in defence and in-front of goal the score could of easily been 6 or 7.So im not complaining !!!!.
"STAND UP FOR THE MANAGER"
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SomersetHoops added 14:46 - Dec 28

I'm in France; coming over here after watching the super game on boxing day so could only watch by jerky internet. For me MOM was Paddy Kenny who kept us in it in the first half where without two superb saves from him we could have been two down. Kyle Walker runs him a good second and I was glad to see Taarabt's excellence being better integrated into the team. From what I could see Matt Conolly and Ali Fourlin both had good games.
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qpr1962 added 14:56 - Dec 28

good win at Coventry walker work is sock off
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antoknee64 added 16:41 - Dec 28

Not our best performance as usual in front of the cameras,but we never looked like loosing,Kenny outstanding again,Gorkes & Connolly were solid,Derry & Faurlin looked tired,HH was amazing again holding up play but seems to have a problem scoring from open play.Adel quiet but a total threat and Kyle Walker worth every penny of 3 million,was great comming forward (and if it was anybody else but that prat Clarke) could of easily scored after creating a great chance at the end. Everthing crossed that we can extend Walkers contract.
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gobbles added 18:37 - Dec 28

These ratings are so token. How does someone give Orr a higher mark than Clarke? Clarke I at least saw made a decent clearance - Orr I don't remember touching the ball
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NorwayRanger16 added 20:56 - Dec 28

I struggle to separate Kenny and Walker in this one, but have to give it to Kenny. Without his saves we would have gone in at halftime trailing, and most likely lost the game.
Very un-QPR like we broke some barriers today:
1: QPR had lost the last 5 games played on the 28. of december.
2: First time Coventry lost two consecutive home games in about two years.
3: First away team to keep a clean sheet at the Ricoh Arena this season.
4: Won in front of the Sky cameras (practise actualy helps :-))

I set myself a target of 3 points from the games against Coventry and Norwich, it's better than two draws, meaning a point or three would be a real bonus at Carrow Road.

Going for the same result as New years day 1992, 1-4 and Mackie to get his first hat-trick, you R's!
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NorwayRanger16 added 20:59 - Dec 28

I believe those facts to be right but have not checked them.

Maybe you could correct them if wrong Clive :-)
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Rs4life added 08:33 - Dec 29

I thought that Ali Faurlin was class, Kenny was great as usual and Walkersuperb. Bring on Norwich!
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chazranger added 09:12 - Dec 29

Things are great right now, I hate to put a downer on things but if we are unable to extend walkers deal (which is quite likely) and Hills ban is not uplifted..... we are gonna be in trouble for full backs for a couple of games>
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ConnexIV added 22:05 - Dec 29

Put that on a DVD boys, lol :)
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PVFC_78 added 16:30 - Dec 30

God we were poor. Cost me a fortune as well to get down to Kent on the train. Lets hope for better at Rotherham.
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valiant added 11:15 - Jan 1

Does anybody elese agree that Gary Roberts has gone right off the boil?
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SomersetHoops added 17:23 - Jan 1

I can't give any meaningful report on this game as I'm in France and could only hear the radio commentary, but I can comment on the team we put out. Derry has said his legs feel like lead during games, so why don't we give him a rest and let Rowly play. Why does NW not rate him - he has been good for us in this kind of game and could have added a bit of a spark that may have been missing. Mackie was hardly mentioned in the commentary and when he was it was in defence no wonder we didn't get anything from this game. If we have a squad? - this was the time to use it instead of trotting out the same tired legs. Of course I shouldn't be too critical of NW - It could be worse we could be where Cardiff are from being above us not long ago. I am only concerned that prejudice is excluding some players who could give a good performance if given the chance.
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Dalenet added 17:23 - Jan 1

Goodness me. We don't half make it hard for ourselves. But a pleasing 3 points against a Tranmere team that were generally poor and got away with murder. Had we thrown that away I would question whether we were strong enough for Div 1, but I think we are.
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jdalec added 20:01 - Jan 1

Quite a hot tempered affair. I think Tranmere are one of the poorest sides we have seen this season and we should have won by a greater margin, unfortunately we did our usual thing of we are 2-1 up everyone stay behind the ball lets defend deep and invite the opposition on to us. Got to get our killer instinct back. Jones was excellent which is just as well as Kennedy and Barry-Murphy are not pulling their weight.
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jdalec added 20:01 - Jan 1

Quite a hot tempered affair. I think Tranmere are one of the poorest sides we have seen this season and we should have won by a greater margin, unfortunately we did our usual thing of we are 2-1 up everyone stay behind the ball lets defend deep and invite the opposition on to us. Got to get our killer instinct back. Jones was excellent which is just as well as Kennedy and Barry-Murphy are not pulling their weight.
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qpr_ox added 23:10 - Jan 1

Helguson peppered with long balls against a 6ft+ defence was never going to work. We looked more attacking in the second half with a man less. At least we took the ball under control and passed it around. But Clarke, why oh why Warnock? He looks awful. Can't jump, can't pass, can't cross. He's been given a go, don't choose him again.

My biggest worry for 2011 is the absence of Taarabts. A bad challenge, a slip in training, or a trip down the stairs of the team coach, and we could do a Cardiff. Our team strategy is solely based around him.

However, get something from the game on Tuesday and we'll all forget about this problem until the next defeat.
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qpr1962 added 02:50 - Jan 2

we can not win at Norwich for love or money .we better with 10 men than 11 .but Clarke was crap well i hope we got smith back for Bristol at home on Monday . give player from Norway a run out as well .but its only our 3 lost of the season
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qpr1962 added 02:51 - Jan 2

we can not win at Norwich for love or money .we better with 10 men than 11 .but Clarke was crap well i hope we got smith back for Bristol at home on Monday . give player from Norway a run out as well .but its only our 3 lost of the season
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harleymaxwell added 10:23 - Jan 2

well i said after the 2 defeats v watford and leeds when taraabt was subbed and it happened again here - he is the only man in the team that can turn a loss into a draw or a win , these players have to be on the pitch in losing situation - better off starting without him and bringing him on in some of these tricky away games after all we would have taken a nil nil
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SomersetHoops added 12:43 - Jan 2

Lambert gets credit for changes forced upon him and was lucky being forced to include players that would not have been first choice, but performed very well against our tired and overworked team. I agree with haleymax that it would have been better to start without Taarabt and bring him on when he could have the most impact. I know the saying goes 'don't change a winning team', but when games come at three day intervals it is necessary to evaluate who has the energy for the next game and consider the whole squad. The one change we were forced to make was Leon Clark who didn't seem to have been an improvement. This would have been a good opportunity to test some of our underused squad members and other ways of playing, as looking at the stats our normal team and tactics left us short of the sparkle and energy to consistently take the game to Norwich. We are not yet good enough to pick a team without considering the strengths and weaknesses of the opposition.
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antoknee64 added 13:10 - Jan 2

NW is a genious and i praise him for all hes done already,but for the life of me i dont understand this Leon Clarke obsesion thing,he was such a liability to us and when Norwich scored Hil put in a great block on the first shot then Clarke was no where nere their right back (who he should of been marking) and when he shot Clarke turned hes back,everytime he received a pass he played it back too Hill,rubbish.He maybe great in trainning but he just cant make the grade in our team,its a crying shame to see players like Rowlands,Ephraime even Orr left on the bench for the likes of Clarke.Also Norwich had the upper hand as they changed 7 outfield players who were clearly more fresh legged than some of our players,NW should of rotated the squad occasionaly during the Xmas hectic schedule.
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qpr1962 added 17:26 - Jan 3

Two points drop orr very poor back pass and very poor marking for the bristol city second but 5 points clear .so the cup next weekend so can rest players for that game
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jfk added 18:34 - Jan 3

We looked very good for periods - if a bit tired in places - and really should have been well ahead before the end. Hulse was ok as the target man for balls played forwards, but his finishing is apalling at the moment. I think the ref was going to send their defender off when he gave the penalty, but then realised it was Hulse he fouled so it couldn't be called a clear goalscoring opporutunity.
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BromleyHoop added 19:27 - Jan 3

I thought Hill played really well as replacement for Connolly; he won everything in the air and Stead didn't really get a sniff. It was a shame for him that the one error he made all afternoon led to their first goal. I must admit I've got a bit of an issue with Hulse. He made some good headed flick ons but, for someone of 6'2 or 3' he doesn't get off the ground enough. He waits for the ball to come to him as opposed to Helgusson who really attacks the ball and wins far more in the air than he ought to. I can't help but think that if Helgusson was playing he'd have put one of the headed chances away.
Bristol hardly deserved to score one goal let alone two, we were by far the better side. Special mention to Paddy Kenny whose save from Cambell Ryce was outstanding.
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billericaydicky added 20:01 - Jan 3

Agree with the comments about Hill, he had a great game until the bad error gave them their first goal. But for me Orr was the main culprit when he tried to be clever at the end and head the ball back to Kenny and gave the first corner away (which then lead to the 2nd corner and their equaliser). It should have been whacked into Ellerslie Rd.

Hulse worked hard, but couldn't hit a barn door at the moment. Taarabt was superb again and really put a shift in.

It certainly feels like a defeat and hopefully now we can bring a couple of players in and ship a few out.
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jdalec added 20:01 - Jan 3

Well earned 3 points at Boundary park. Can anybody explain what Joe Thompson contributed against Tranmere to warrant a start today?? He did absolutely nothing for Dale today and it was a blessed relief when he was subbed. Time to start playing with 11 men Keith!!!
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harleymaxwell added 23:48 - Jan 3

agree that Orr was at fault for the equalizer - Orr in fact had a poor game all round, crossing passing and distribution not good.

Never felt we would win the game as we looked shaky down the wings and large gaps often in midfield

as for the refs for all their tin god attitude how on earth can this one let Kenny where an all black kit which matches his own!! Its time these refs were assessed negatively for colour clashing with goalies

Take Taraabt out the team and we are very ordinary, NW could rue taking him off early in games we were losing, Watford Leeds Norwich - lets hope not
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headhoops added 12:32 - Jan 4

Definately two points dropped.

My opinion: Kaspars needs a long term partner (with pace)
The midfield needs strengthening. Too often Ali and Derry are overwhelmed, they are a fantastic pairing - image scott parker/stephen ireland or a fully fit Rowly in there too? Yesterday we played 4 up front leaving big gaps in midfield - the same was true for Swansea - they strode through and shot at will - fortunately the words hit/cow/backside and Banjo applied. Plus we have Paddy - enjoyed his 'advice' given to Walker.

We have to sign Walker - he's been outstanding - I would also look at putting him in midfield.

Up front, Mackie and Heidar. Hulse is not as mobile and his finishing is appalling. He's 6ft 3ins tall and when he leaps he's 5ft 6ins.

Adel is, well Adel - ten minutes of sulking drives you mad then ten seconds of brilliance and its all forgotten. First on the teamsheet.

Go 4-3-1-2 with

Paddy
Orr Connolly Kaspars Hill
Walker Ali Derry
Tarbs
Mackie Helguson

happy days.


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PinnerPaul added 13:54 - Jan 4

Can't agree at all that this was "Same as Swansea" - BC had far less possession and were far less dangerous than Swansea.

My next door neighbour at LR yesterday agreed with me that Clint Hill won 127 headers and the one he mucked up they scored!

2nd goal agree was a comedy of errors staring with Gorkss miskick, followed by Kenny not either calling for the ball himself on telling Orr he had time, either way Orr should not have conceded the first corner. Mackie actually had a tocuh on the ball but allowed Campbell Rice the shot (WHAT! a save that was!) and then partly because Damion was up we had 5 big men to mark and weren't organised enough to do so. Shots stats are interesting we had 6 on target, as did BC but we had 14 off , they had none!
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qpr1962 added 17:25 - Jan 8

who cares its only the fa cup
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qpr1962 added 17:25 - Jan 8

who cares its only the fa cup
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LostBoys added 10:35 - Jan 9

Great performance all round by the lads and Schneiderlin's midfield masterclass was one of the best I have seen anywhere.
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winchesterbob added 11:54 - Jan 9

Morgan Schneiderlin's best game so far this season
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qpr1962 added 12:48 - Jan 9

diouf needed s kicking out of football nasty bit of work
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OldPedro added 12:55 - Jan 9

I was impressed with some of the delivery from Vaagan Moen and his great free kick at the end of the first half but worried by NW's comments about the number of injuries we've now got especially Jamie Mackie.

And where was Martin Rowlands? Would have thought he would have got some game time
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LostBoys added 03:59 - Jan 12

Wow - I would have loved to have been there and tried very hard to manipulate my trip north this week
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ourkid1984 added 23:23 - Jan 12

Very good performance and very hard to give a man of the match. Dickson, Chaplow, Lambert, Lallana and Guly all had very good performances.

All of the subs played their part, looking forward to Notts County now.

I would say the only disapointment was the lack of Saints fans that turned up even it being a Tuesday.
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qpr1962 added 17:26 - Jan 15

two points drop but draw at burnley where we always lose at
1


barryroch added 18:00 - Jan 15

The only winner today was the weather.I suppose 1-1 was a fair result although you could,nt play passing football in the conditions. Hope it dries out for Tuesday. Again another poor attendance
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jdalec added 19:25 - Jan 15

Should the game of been played?? I think it was just playable although certian areas of the pitch were saturated and Hilly's concern for the long term effects on the pitch are justified. As far as a football match , why when we are in a situation were we are 1-1 do we pull EVERY man deep to defend corners, free kicks etc ??? We never leave a single player in the centre circle and guess what? Thats right if and when we do clear it the ball comes straight back. Basic football. At least we weren't shot shy today. 3 points against managerless Bournemouth please.
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valiant added 22:07 - Jan 15

Jake Speight? WTF!!! It was Justin Richards who scored!
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LostBoys added 11:53 - Jan 16

All over them but wasteful finishing and a dreadful standard of crosses and passes into the box
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channonite added 17:26 - Jan 16

Slightly frustrating day. We, not for the first time, couldn't work out how to unlock the opposition. Enjoyable watching the battle of wits. County played well and could have nicked the game at the death. These are the types of game we have been losing up until recently, but it was still two points lost that we could regret.

We missed Lallana and the injury to Chaplow upset us more than a bit. We can ill afford to lose Chamberlain if Lallana is out for any length of time.

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onedalefan added 19:51 - Jan 16

Keith, the ref said it was playable so play to the conditions. As much as I like good football, if it needed hitting long, do it. There was too much 'pretty football' at the back when it wasn't possible and the players should have been told this. Fair play to Orient who also appeared to want to play decent football and normally this would have been ideal for us but they adapted better. I agree with the comment above, why do we bring everyone back for a corner (Dickinson on the post, O'Grady in the area) with no outlet when we clear. All in all, a fair result.
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eusebio added 08:35 - Jan 17

Bugga
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kirbys added 16:43 - Jan 17

Like most I wanted to see the match on, but after 15 mins or so began to doubt the merit of playing through puddles. As said above it did not suit our fast passing game - not orient who also played not booted the ball. So no winners all round. Felt sorry for the groundstaff trying to mop up the main stand side with the mobile squeejee's, mission impossible!.
Worse still we picked up a cople of injuries to two players who were handling the conditions better than some in Adams and Kennedy. Hope they are not too serious.
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kirbys added 16:51 - Jan 17

ERROR IN MY VIEW ABOVE. Of course it was Josh thompson who was injused after 15 mins.
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jdalec added 11:17 - Jan 19

Scrappy game, will take a point from it still unbeaten in 2011. Thought O'Grady looked jaded, Dickinson still to ignite?? Think its time to admit that Thompson is just not good enough, need to start with 11 men not 10 !!!!! Goodall had another excellent performance but for Lillis excellent save in 2nd half he would of been man of match.
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trickytree1984 added 15:16 - Jan 22

Great game. Forest looked bright and positive. McGugan was not his normal self but Moussi was brilliat all game, Savage couldnt touch him. Tyson was also excellent.

On the dervy side, Commons, Savage, Leacock and moxey were all poor
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Meerkat_Ram added 15:42 - Jan 22

Enough is enough! Derby are a disgace! How will the Directors talk their way put of this result. If Nigel does not have any good players to add to the team at this stage then he has not done the job he was emplyed to do
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PVFC_78 added 18:14 - Jan 22

Gareth Owen getting sent off was a big turning point, but apart from Justin Richards hitting the post we really didn't trouble their keeper at all. Yet another defeat.
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durham_exile added 23:49 - Jan 22

Well I still haven't seen Colchester win at the Galpharm but they came mighty close today.

A point was fully deserved but we could have had more.
Kayode Odejayi was within a whisker on two occasions of scorin g the winner and looked strong and certainly worth a start at the Withdean on Tuesday.

As you would expect Huddersfield were under pressure to atone for the debacle at Brunton Park in the JPT and were fiirng on all cylinders early doors. Colchester's defence were more than equal to the threat and although Williams had saves to make they failed to put the U's under sustained pressure.

Ben Coker in only his second game looks assured and shows a confidence in his play that has already made Tierney redundant.

Heath and Rio are forming a strong partnership and Lee Beevers (Mr versatile) performed very well and once he begun to tire made way for John White.

In midfield, Andy Bond didn't have one of his strongest days but could have scored in the first half. David Perkins was once again a terrier (no pun intended) and won many duels that he had no right to win.

Ashley Vincent unfortunately tires but shows that hsi pace can unsettle defences.

Mooney works tirelessly and covers every blade of grass (on what was a heavy pitch) but is lacking confidence at present having failed to score recently.

Woody was in and out of the game and didn't get the chance to take any trademark freekicks.

The captain is struggling at present and I would like to see Lloyd James play in his place from the start.

The Colchester faithful were largely quiet today as the Pink Link stand reverberated to the Huddersfield faithful who were noisy for 80 minutes out of the 90.

Prat of the day - Huddersfield Town manager who did his best to imitate Mancini of Man City complete with scarf - he never achieved it and his constant moaning and berating players and officials was tiresome in the extreme.

Disappointment - the league table never lies except when we have played three games less than many of our rivals. When the 46 games have been played we will comfortably be in one of the top six positions.

Now we want Wilson and O'Toole back and fit and quick.

Up the U's
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GRUMPYRAM added 08:54 - Jan 23

Another poor showing, this time in a typical local derby. We seemed to have no plan other than to either hump the ball up to Porter (who is clearly not up for the job) or rely on a lucky bounce in one of Bueno's dribbles. Several players were well off the pace and the side is crying out for investment from the Yanks, not just lower league players and loan signings. I know confidence is low at the moment, not only with the players, but also with the crowd many of whom arrived expecting a wupping. There are three poorer teams than us in this league so I do not forsee relegation as a problem, but I do not think there will be any improvement in our league position come May. I fear there will then be a mass exodus of season ticket holders for next year. Whilst I do not have much faith in Nigel and his coaching staff, to replace him would use up a lot of cash (which, unexplainedly, we appear to have none of) and I cannot see a replacement out there who is realistically going to come to a club. I believe the answer is 100% down to the yanks to abandon whatever their plan is and start injecting some cash in for decent players. Ben Davies, especially in the circumstances, was our only player to come out with credit for us, whilst the defence in general was not too bad against a pacy forward line.
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HollowayRanger added 16:59 - Jan 23

Good match end to end credit coventry for not parking the bus,Taarabt MOTM as usual ,where would we be without him,that said routledge made a massive difference really put in a shift some great crosses fantastic first touch for goal and pace! pace we have been missing big time,Miller very good as well won hearders that helga lost and but for a great save would have had a goal as well.

Things are looking good again!
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qpr1962 added 17:11 - Jan 23

Good win and our first double in 3 season ,Routledge play very well so 5 points clear come U Rsssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssss
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qpr1962 added 17:11 - Jan 23

Good win and our first double in 3 season ,Routledge play very well so 5 points clear come U Rsssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssss
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French_Hoops added 17:12 - Jan 23

Coventry is indeed a team at the image of their manager: petty and dirty...
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bloberts added 19:53 - Jan 23

was at the game have to say i didn't think it was good as everyone was saying...
i thought we got a bit sucked into there game of hoofing it which only worked when miller came on
Coventry were poor as i expected and unfortunatly there only good player seemed to be ''cough'' Marlon King
Both new signings look quality taarabts goal was superb, as was Routledge's
referee was truly horrendous unfortunatly
strange choice by sky to put both coventry games live on sky while neither the swansea, cardiff or norwich game on
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putneyhoops added 22:56 - Jan 23

freddie eastwood missed a sitter at 0/1 had he scored it would of turned out a different result maybe, we cant go on wasting so many chances helguson and hulse just dont cut it and forget leon clarke he is poor
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paulsmith56 added 23:20 - Jan 23

i agree but why did he leave him on the bench at the Yeovil Town game after his brilliant performance,??????????????
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chazranger added 07:51 - Jan 24

QPR1962.... You mention its ur first double in 3 years, We done the double agaainst Barnsley last season. I reckon we could get a few doubles under our belt this year. Great to get back to winning ways, thought we looked sharp again!
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eusebio added 08:37 - Jan 24

Bummer
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crazyface added 10:42 - Jan 24

As I expected it turn out to be a relegation dogfight type of game. Barnet were awful and shouldn't be even in this league. Unless Paul Fairclough pulls another miracle off they will go down. We should have won comfortably but for some shocking finishing. Barnett could even hit the target after having the ball rolled invitingly into his stride just inside the penalty area and Sinclair also missed the target when bursting though a collander Barnet defence at the end. The bast player on the pitch was Issac Reid who tried his best to provide our "strikers" with enough opportunities to score that they might actally get one in. Awful game.
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SomersetHoops added 18:01 - Jan 24

I was a bit under the weather so unusualy for a weekend home game took the lazy way by watching this game on sky. I did write an earlier report, but was not on top form so lost it. Anyway, it was great to see how Wayne Routledge slotted straight into the team and scored a super goal from a superb pass by AT. They gave Wayne MOM on tv, but I think it was a close call between Derry and AT for me with WR a close third. Its interesting how you get a different perspective on tv and I could see the superb work Derry does and a super shot which deserved a goal - only a top class save by Westwood saved it.
Ish Miller looked good, sharp and drew another Westwood class save. He looks the most like a 'proper striker' that we've had since Paul Furlong. HH has been looking as if he is carrying an injury and Hulse has been about as sharp as a bannana, so we need Miller to stay fit and sharp and lead the line. I'm very pleased we've got Routledge for all the reasons we agree on, but he is not Jamie Mackie and we should not expect him to track back as Mackie did to the detriment of his goalscoring in my opinion. This means particularly Gorks and Conolly need to stay 'on station' more because there is no Makie to cover their errors - glaring in the case of the Marlon King goal. I could have bet on King getting that goal and the only way to have prevented was if I had put £20 on him to score first - in which case he probably would have scored last. Even if his goal had won the game I would still not want King at LR and the fans gave him an appropriate reception. I don't go into many games expecting a win, but I did for this one and all credit to Coventry for a great performance - other teams are going to find them tough to beat if they continue to perform like they did on Sunday
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qpr1962 added 18:40 - Jan 29

Bore draw nothing to say .Only Adel Taaradt thoughting he DUMPY out of he PRAM on the pitch
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CanadaRanger added 19:13 - Jan 29

Has the paint finished drying yet?
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chazranger added 00:45 - Feb 2

Faurlin was different class tonight!! Stand out player
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bridgem added 08:58 - Feb 2

Another sad evening, poor tactics, poor team and thinking about Division 1. Sick of played a lone striker at home and Porter well no more comment.
No surprise we failed again, cannot keep a clean sheet in fact we need two for a draw these days, see Chris Riggott has no club surely he would add experience and some class, oh sorry he may want £100 per week so he will not be coming
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HantsR added 09:57 - Feb 2

The first half was frustrating as Portsmouth came clearly focused on stifling our attack, mainly by giving the likes of Taarabt and Routledge no room to play. This led to a less attractive approach all round and few quality passing movements. Kitson beat Connolly to most headers and Miller, after initially shining, was mainly subdued. Many clearances were sliced or otherwise mis-timed and this even included a wild kick by Kenny although Orr is the one that stands most in mind. Derry wasn't as effective as usual and Ephraim was typically lightweightand naive when unable to use his pace. In the midst of all this, Faurlin worked hard to gain posesssion and try some decent distribution - his left-foot shot was probably the best of the first half. The game turned in the second half when Taarabt got a bit more of the ball and started to alternately tease the opposition and frustrate our supporters. Once, beating 3 then turning left and spurning the obvious ball right to Hogan, gnashings of teeth could be heard. Shortly after that, a bit more selfishness when most of us were on the point of metaphorically throttling him culminated in smart snap shot that may have surprised Ashdown who let it slip from his grasp and into the net. Whether it was Pompey hanging heads or simply realising that they now had to chase the game - it opened up and made for a much better game. Taarabt's free kicks looked well-paced and threatening but I wish he had let Faurlin try his left foot again rather than Tarb's lame rihgt foot shot over the bar. However, a subsequent corner was deservedly headed home by Clint Hill. Pompey could have had at least two goals but decided to shoot higgh and wide; when they managed to get a shot on target, Kenny showed amazing agility to tip several efforts over when I was in the numb anticipatory state said to be experienced by quarry species when the predator is about to deliver the coup de grace. A hard-won victory and I guess this is the pattern that opposition teams will adopt when our attack can be devastating when given the chance.
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billericaydicky added 11:38 - Feb 2

I agree that Faurlin was outstanding tonight, but I'd give MoM to Clint Hill. He threw himself into challenges and epitomises the never say die attitude that Warnock likes to have in his players. And he scored as well. If we ever need to swop things around at the back he can play at centre half with Chimbonda at left back.
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headhoops added 11:45 - Feb 2

Faurlin was excellent, Kenny once again playing his part. Taarabt is Taarabt and we love him. Who else would have the vision to beat three players, have a team mate completly unmarked and in on goal - only to look up realise it was Ephraim and decide it wasn't worth putting him through. He (Ephraim) would have just turned back and played to ball to Orr.

Miller is looking better with each game, whilst Hulse appears to be afflicted with first touchitus and goalscorers block.

Most visitors from now on will play like Pompey with a back 5 and 4 in midfield - we have got to get used to it.
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toemasher added 17:24 - Feb 2

Agree with most comments but feel I have to give Hogan his due. I think he had a terrific game and worked hard especially with it being a return to form for him. Loved Cotterills comments, ha ha ha, long may they play better than us!
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qpr1962 added 22:15 - Feb 4

was good win have to work for it
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qpr1962 added 22:17 - Feb 4

Qpr likes playing with ten men against reading .
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cmbann added 12:51 - Feb 5

Very impressed with the fitness of Faurlin Derry and Routledge.
Faurlins passing was faultless.
Qpr was a little unfortunate with the last man issue and i think Hogan deserved the red.Good team effort which showed a lot of character.Kenny made good saves but he would be expected to make those saves.
Taraabt is starting to know when to release the ball to his team members - a big club will come in for him so we must accept his presence as short term only.
The only negatives was Hogans lack of discipline and at times Bradleys passing was poor.

However, the link up play was good and the defending was excellent.The fitness coach should be given a bonus this week because Reading look like the team with ten men.
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SheffieldSteve added 14:13 - Feb 5

Agree that Faurlin was the 'man of the match', can see why on tv they gave it to Routledge, the goal (so shallow ;-).
The team played very well overall, still don't understand why Hulse is having problems settling in, missed a good chance to score with a header early on. I never felt we would lose the game from the start, though.
Great to have another 3 points, and the double over the fake hoops, with only 10 men for over 50% of each match. U Rs!!
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themodfather added 15:43 - Feb 5

big big win
now we can move on full of confidence!
dust off those nerves, this is real and happening!!
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NorwayRanger16 added 15:54 - Feb 5

Fantastic feeling last night! Ever so proud of our beloved team.
Agree Faurlin was brilliant, but i'm backing Sky for the MOM. Routledge deserves it, the goal of course tipping it in his favour, which by no means was an easy one, well taken and credit to Faurlin for a perfectly weighted pass. But what really impressed me and why i believe he deserved it the most was his tracking back and the cover he gave Orr, together they had McAnuff under controll throughout.

Lets hope that we get some results going our way before Forest next sunday :-)
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jfk added 19:42 - Feb 5

Fantastic result. I thought Hill had a good game too, especially after being booked so early on. Great to see the team going for the win at 10-man (again). Faurlin was excellent, and it's a real boost to have Taarbs and Routledge giving us options up front. If Hulse could only remember how to score, we'd be laughing even more than we are now.
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Doughnut added 21:13 - Feb 5

10 men...away win......doesn't come much better than that . Proud of em!
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Adelaidehoops added 03:21 - Feb 6

Great to see Routledge & Taraabt linking well that will even get better. I must miss something with Hulse, Cant believe he plays in front of Ishmael .
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LostBoys added 06:08 - Feb 6

We did not play well and defensively I have seen better from a pub team. We have got to get this sorted out as everyone around us keeps winning - home or away
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Lazarus added 08:48 - Feb 7

I'm hoping not to sound too much like a stuck record, but the ref was truly useless. He missed so many pushes, etc., as well as giving several free kicks in the second half that neither side were expecting. I had the misfortune to sit with the Reading fans, and was thoroughly irritated by their constant braying for free kicks and bookings as their men once again hit the deck under strong - but not dirty - challenges. It was the same last year, and the same at Loftus Road. It is a tactic they seem to employ against the R's, knowing that it is their team's only chance of beating us. Such a well deserved result!! :-)
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pnc4eva1 added 17:08 - Feb 9

Rather a poor first half with little to remember apart from Dale having two good attempts compared to Rovers one. The rest was pretty forgettable.

The second half was better but neither team appeared to threaten too much until the first goal and the sending off. Dale then allowed Rover's best player too much time on the ball.

The management did change the formation and go 442 to a greater effect. This resulted in Dale scoring two goals in injury time. The first was heavily contested by the player stood on the line who insisted that Akpro (guilty of a bad miss earlier) was offside. as Rovers attempted to equalise they were ripped to shreads by Done who finished well
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jdalec added 19:16 - Feb 9

About time we put 3 past somebody. Can't understand why Matty done hasn't featured more this season?? He can make things happen and has pace with or without the ball. Lack lustre performance from Kennedy & Barry Murphy, Akpa miss was horrendous. Wiseman was excellent as was Dawson.
Bring on Sheff Weds for some much deserved revenge!!!
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LostBoys added 18:53 - Feb 12

Dreadful but its three points. Passing and crossing particularly from Harding were worse than you see in the parks
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jdalec added 19:43 - Feb 12

Revenge is a dish best eaten cold. Best performance of this year no doubt about it. The eleven we played with after Done came on (altering the game) is without doubt our most exciting and strongest line up. Done, Atkinson, Adams, Holness, Dawson, Wiseman all exciting young players who I believe may just take us to within snatching distance of a play off place HEAVEN!!! We are still in Hillcroft heaven
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barryroch added 20:26 - Feb 12

BEST result so far of this amazing season. The only thing that spoiled it was everything to do with the opposition. USELESS manager..... USELESS fans...... USELESS players. I hope we bill them for the damage they caused.
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eusebio added 10:02 - Feb 13

A good 3 points added to the 4 away makes for a good weeks work.
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winchesterbob added 11:29 - Feb 13

Just for the player ratings if nothing else, although Dickson was in the original team list announced at around 2pm that was later ammended to Jaidi who in fact did play at centre back.

I think the sending off had an adverse effect on Saints as Carlisle switched from a less open game and just tried to hit us on the break.

The balance down the left was disrupted a bit and affected, Harding, Chaplow and Lallana with the the new man N'Gussen in the side, but he looks a decent player and when he settles in looks like a good signing.

It looks like more sides are sticking a couple of defender on Alex O-C and he could do with a rest from the starting line up for a few games if only to save him from some of the battering he got yesterday.

Forte looks lightening quick and if he can control the ball and get crosses into the box will be a good addition

Main thing was three more points..COYR
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qlrken05 added 14:35 - Feb 13

Absolutley brilliant report Col. the Best ever football I have seen a Dale team play, walking back to my car after the match I was chatting with about 3 Wednesday supporters who all said the best team won and WE showed them how to play good attractive football, as a TEAM.
Come on the Dale
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qpr1962 added 15:28 - Feb 13

Two points drop 12 draw of season you think if won 6 of them games we would be out of sight are this draw going bit as on the bum i hope not
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jfk added 16:39 - Feb 13

Disappointing. Great goal from Smith and then a man up, only to give away a cheap free kick and let in a spawny deflected goal.

A few good runs from Miller second half, and a few individual moments of skill from others, but we didn't really look like scoring. I think we missed Smith.

Forest defended well with 10, and had the pace up front to still be a threat, so got to give them credit, but still feeling flat.

I did have a bet on a sending off though. Clattenburg. Nuff said.
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headhoops added 16:49 - Feb 13

Top man today was Faurlin, great goal from Smith, pure raw strength from Miller and the usual no prisoners from Derry. Watch the match again and see how much ground Ali covers, how many headers he wins, really hope his substitution isn't a longer term problem.

A mate joked, why didn't Hulse pull his hamstring, my son replied, you usually have to run to do that. Hmmm
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onedalefan added 18:55 - Feb 13

As usual, when an opposition don't put 10 behind the ball (and they didn't, they just didn't know what they were doing!) and we are allowed to play, we prove what a good footballing team we are. How often does an enforced change allow someone to shine, Matt Done justified the MOTM award. The only worry I have is that performances like this highlight our players (and management team) to everyone else as mentioned on the football league show.
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wilbutpiefan added 17:42 - Feb 14

Only just found the site - I wondered where you had gone to ! Great to have access again to your match reports - still superb.
Why should we worry now ? Relegation - don't think so.
Promotion - how would we manage in the Championship? Nice problem to have.
All credit to Hillcroft from their determination and hard work everything else flows from them as a result.
The real Wednesday fans were shocked but why don't the Police change their tactics ? You cannot put men into a completely full stand and allocated seating might help break up the plonkers who want to cause trouble.
As for Southampton I'll bet they are not looking forward to Saturdays trip, maybe they should forget it and just put our 3 points in the post .......
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cmbann added 16:41 - Feb 15

Initially things were going well - wonder goal then the sending off .Then we had a silly error with a free kick given and rightfully so.A very fortunate goal then follows -Paddy can't save those more chance in winning the lottery.Then Tommy suffered his Hamstring we then in my view didn't create much.
Taraabt and Faurlin two of our creative players were tightly marked which left space for Derry and Miller.Although Miller was useful i think he would have been better down the middle replacing Rob Hulse who lacks confidence.Taraabt was sulking and Wayne was subdued.It seemed to be the Reading game in reverse ,we didn't know how to exploit the extra man!

Forest deserved their point and Billy Davies won the Manager points - Neil probably learnt a lot from this game though .
Anyway they didn't lose to a very confident Forest team but the players were obviously dissappointed given the circumstances.
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qpr1962 added 17:06 - Feb 19

Another 2 points drop not good enough .The strikers are not getting there act together
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qpr1962 added 17:06 - Feb 19

Another 2 points drop not good enough .The strikers are not getting there act together
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QPRVancouver added 17:57 - Feb 19

This was a big test of whether we can really make this championship our own. Where are the goalscorers? Is the plan to draw ourselves into the Premier League? Come on R's lets get back to the goalscoring we had in the early part of the season
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valiant added 18:22 - Feb 19

Much more like it from Vale, a decent performance except for the usual panic stations in the last five minutes. Gannon has seen the light and played Griff and Roberts in midfield. Geohaghan still doesn't look good enough, just slow and sluggish, but he was nowhere near as bad as he was against Northampton.
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newgolddream added 18:41 - Feb 19

Another couple of points dropped. Could be out of sight at this stage of the season. Big game v Ipswich on Tuesday and a repeat of this wouldn't be good enough against our in-form visitors. Come on u R's.
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NorthfieldsR added 00:11 - Feb 20

Yes, Come on You Rs indeed!

I can't believe the negativity around Hulse, the panic and the nervousness. OK the goals aren't going in like they did 4 months ago but look where we are and NW has still not had his first anniversary!
For God's sake enjoy and relax...otherwise the nerves pass on to the team.

May be the old Rs would buckle under the expectation. Tonight the bookies have us, at worst at 3/10 for promotion..they rarely get it wrong and this is NW's Rs. Enjoy and get off the back of any of our players.
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themodfather added 01:15 - Feb 20

still the 5 pts clear....pne were always gonna give it a go
we hit the bar to miss going 2-0 up and adel had a good chance late on.
another game chlaked off
5 clear with 14 to play, the others are playing catch up and stealing pts off each other.
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franciso added 12:48 - Feb 20

Another draw,we should be winning these games especially when the chasing pack are closing in on us when we should be out of sight by now.I fear if we are knocked off our perch we wont get back on top again as our recent form is not the form of champions.It makes Tuesday's game against Ipswich all the more important now and we MUST get 3 points and not ANOTHER draw.Come on U R'ss lets show them we deserve to be top of the league.
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qpr1962 added 22:43 - Feb 22

QPR need it to win tonight .need 25 points win the league
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qpr_ox added 08:52 - Feb 23

When we win, this part of the site goes extremely silent - can't do Clive's advertising revenue any good!

Loved the result last night, but almost loved it even more when the second goal went in for Preston. An away draw now looks pretty good against them.

Of course, the BBC site leads with the Cardiff result. God forbid they begin to support their local team!
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billericaydicky added 09:36 - Feb 23

Well done Fitz Hall who threw himself in front of shots and was an excellent calming influence at the back. Top marks also for big Danny and Clint Hill. A game of 2 halves as they say and a valuable 3 points. 6 more wins to go...
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headhoops added 09:42 - Feb 23

Wasnt pretty, especially the first half, Warnock must have told them at half time, only one winner once we got going. Helguson is fantastic in the air but we have to stop the route one stuff everytime.
Paddy was as solid as ever, Shittu was and always will be SOLID, Clint Hill just shaded it for me as MOTM - ultra competitive and got that important first goal.
Pity about the late goals against Forest, Norwich & Leeds. LOL.
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franciso added 11:29 - Feb 23

We got out of jail last night as Ipswich were all over us in the first half and we couldn't get the ball.We had loads of corners before we got that vital first goal but wasted them.With all the big men we've got we should be scoring more goals from corners.Delighted with the win as the chasing pack were closing in on us and I couldn't face another draw.Upwards and onwards now and lets hope for a result against Middlesboro'.
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jfk added 11:50 - Feb 23

Wow. Great result, and the only downside on the evening - I thought - was Forest's late winner. Only found out reading the comments here that Preston went back and equalised. Fantastic.

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bstokesaint added 12:47 - Feb 23

Yet another chance missed to put some pressure on Bournemouth, Huddersfield and Peterborough. And yet another win for Brighton at the top. It's not a disasterous result, but yet again proves that Brighton's more direct style works better at this level. That said if we can win our games in hand and go up in second, then maybe our game will suit better in the Championship. Bring on our bogey team..
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LostBoys added 17:27 - Feb 23

Sounded very poor on the radio. I am concerned about our loss of real form at a time when Brighton just keep rolling on. We can just about recover the 10 point gap but we have to do better than this even on a quagmire. I am also worried about certain players producing consistently poor performances.
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winchesterbob added 19:29 - Feb 23

Can't comment on 'certain players' as I was listening to Dazzling Dave Merrington and crew on the radio.... but it is a concern we are not scoring more and perhaps a more direct approach might suit the muddy fields of the north. Still lets hope we can beat the bogey on the lush green of St Mary's this Saturday. COYR
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newgolddream added 21:54 - Feb 23

Thrilled with the 3 points, clean sheet and a long awaited home win over Ipswich. Fair play to Warnock who had the courage to drop both our centre halves and great to see Dan The Man back in the first XI. Clint Hill is an example of what's been missing at this club for a long time. Only 13 cup finals remaining as we strive to win this championship and return to the top tier of English football. U R's.
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PietKB added 16:06 - Feb 26

Gutless performace today. Need to support the defence out!
Move swiftly on.
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qpr1962 added 19:18 - Feb 26

its was good to see Buzsaky start a game and Helguson get two goals would be nice he took the pen for hes hat trick but we all no what Taarabt like . But great win at Middlebro
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pnc4eva1 added 09:03 - Feb 27

should have taken a book to read for the first half.

Second half was better but it wasn't hard to improve on the first half.

Still another point to safety and possibly in leap frogging Oldham
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themodfather added 11:13 - Feb 27

big win...another clean sheet..12 to go, still clear top
another game chalked off.....smiles all around!
the 1st may have been deflected but the 2nd was quality, great cross form wayne and heidar buried it and is our centre forward.
adel hammered home his pen to seal a good win. derry has been excellent and the fans have started to chant his name.
about 1000 qpr there....
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LostBoys added 01:09 - Mar 2

what a joke apart from the fact that everybody who played won (except Charlton) could not hit a barn door
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qpr1962 added 17:26 - Mar 5

Qpr did not play very well but who cares Win a win Good goal by Miller happy Birthday
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NorwayRanger16 added 18:16 - Mar 5

Yes, absolutely massiv win! In time of writing this it's half time in Cardiff and 0-0. Finally a round where our nearest rivals slip up :-)

Goes to show how important it is to have quality on the bench, cause let me tell you something, Hulse would not have shrugged of Bamba and slottet home like Miller did.

It's Miller time! Happy birthday son, you've earned it.
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lee3lions added 18:21 - Mar 5

Just looking at the Leicester team line-up above. First, Matty Fryatt scored the winner today at Forest, FOR HULL!
Jay Spearing has been back at Liverpool since the end of LAST season!
Stephen Clemence hasn't played for Leicester in over two years and has actually retired!!!
Bamba & Bruma played as centre backs today, and are not even listed, same for Waghorn who came off the bench late on.
Where on earth did this team list come from?
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French_Hoops added 20:21 - Mar 5

Who cares lee? We're here to rate the QPR players.
Go to your own home page if you want to rate yours (assuming Leicester has its own LFW page) and as far as I'm concerned, you can put our 1985 line-up if you like.
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themodfather added 11:38 - Mar 6

leics played well, it was a good game and we won, despite maybe ,them the better chances
however i felt we stayed with it and were patient..miller and smith should've been on earlier but the 1-0 win was crucial as results went our way.
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SomersetHoops added 15:17 - Mar 6

For me Paddy Kenney and Wayne Routledge share MOM for this one. Paddy's save from the lob was world class and got loads of fans on their feet applauding and Wayne was outstanding in his terrier like defending and despite being one of the shortest players on the pitch was often seen heading the ball to safety. In the case of Paddy without three good saves and Wayne's pass to Miller we would not have won this game.

Leicester were as good as I expected them to be and bossed large parts of this game. Our performance in holding them off was superb although like most I agree Mat Conolly looked below par. This performance was even better when considering large numbers of the players had been unable to train due to illness.

It was noticeable that Taarabt was suffering from blind side shirt tugging and ankle taps every time he got near the ball often not enough to give a free kick for but enough to put him off the best of his play. Bruma was particularly good at this and had a good game resulting in the AT threat being just about nullified. Adel would benefit from powering through these niggles a bit more, rather than appealing to refs for free kicks that don't often get given. This why Miller was such an inspired substitution as the two defenders on him tried it on just outside the box, but he powered through and scored.

I would like to see Ali Faulin given some of the free kicks as often I think AT gets wound up so much before he takes them that they go completely wrong as happened at least once in this game.

It was a great game of football despite having only one goal and I think right up to ten minutes to go either side and their supporters would have been happy with a draw, so this was a very good win. I don't agree with those who say this was not a good performance from QPR, our attackers spent a great deal of time supporting the defence which made it difficult for the free flowing football some say is more attractive to watch. This was two sides evenly matched, at the top of their game almost cancelling each other out and for us to get 3 points from it is superb.

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stevohoops added 18:38 - Mar 6

Qpr seemed like they were not at their best,but in truth they grinded out a result against top quality opposition,who have quality and power throughout.
It got more tense as the game went on,they passed well,with Yakubu in particular a constant threat.
But the Rs were constantly snapping at their heels,with Faurlin showing he is not just a flair player,but really can get stuck in as well,he was as superb as ever,just not from his usual passing game.
Yes i would love to have seen us pass Leicester off the pitch,
which we are capable of,but all credit to Leicester for not letting us do that.
Yes,I was screaming at Warnock to get Miller on,for some power of our own! Thought he left it too late,but credit to the great man again,he didn't!!
Great game with a great goal for the birthday boy Miller,to round off three crucial points for the Superhoopsa!!
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qpr1962 added 22:39 - Mar 8

Millwall did their Homework on QPR they marked Tarrabt out of the game and the same with Routledge we had nothing up front with just Helguson i think warnock never plays 4-4-2 .well done to Millwall
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qpr1962 added 22:45 - Mar 8

Warnock did not get this match right Helguson had no support up front ok we are 7pst clear at the moment .ithink 20pst to go up out of 30pst
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jfk added 23:00 - Mar 8

Well, you have to lose some time, and Swansea and Cardiff only got a point between them. Good win for Norwich at Leicester, but we're still 7 clear so the night hasn't undone all the good work from Saturday. Really need to do the job against Palace on Saturday though.
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LostBoys added 09:42 - Mar 9

Some excellent football in parts and some of the worst passing I have seen from certain Saints players. Thank goodness for Barney, Lallana and Chamberlain.
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SomersetHoops added 09:58 - Mar 9

Another game where I'm reduced to looking at the live text updates on my phone in between badminton games. Just when I was beginning to think a 0-0 wouldn't be too bad, they scored with a penalty shortly after. I think the game on Saturday took a lot out of them and its probably that which led to loss of concentration by our defenders. Gorks lack of pace probably meant he was never going to get on the ball over the top once it had passed him and we were probably asking too much of Danny to play 90 minutes in two matches in 3 days after just coming back in. I probably shouldn't comment when I didn't actually see this game, but we are lucky not to have been the only ones in at the top to lose points. We need to be on top form on Saturday for the visit of a resurgent Palace where we will need all three points to keep our distance from the pretenders to our crown.
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jdalec added 10:50 - Mar 9

Thought we played some good stuff at times, It is becomming clear that Liam Dickinson is NOT the real deal!!!!! Used more as a traget man during this game the bloke does not look sharp enough for me?? Pilkington injury looked horrendous and i wish the bloke all the best in his recovery. Onwards and upwards now, time to put 2 defeats behind us and give Exeter a good hiding on Saturday. UP THE DALE!!!!
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mr_qpr added 13:16 - Mar 9

Team didn't play well and Millwall probably deserved it but all of that is insignificant when you consider the Millwall fans behaviour and how away fans are treated. How can this club continue to be allowed to play in the football league? How many police were on duty at the stadium and London Bridge, who pays for them, who allows the home fans to practically tear down the gate behind which the away supporter are caged in, who allows these people to throw anything to hand at the away supporters, who allows objects to be thrown at substitutes warming up, who allows the home fans in each corner to behave like animals and constantly taunt and abuse opposition players and supporters and stand throughout the match, who allows the ground to still be open after reports of bottle and coin throwing at the previous two games? All the quotes about a small minority and all the good work the club has done is absolute b******s. You can go to almost any other ground in the country and not have to put up with this - why are they allowed to constantly get away with it and are probably taking a large chunk of their policing costs out of the my council tax to pay for it all.
0


QPRFish added 15:38 - Mar 9

And who allows the QPR fans to "coin" liam trotter when playin up to the camera man behind the goal after scoring the pen? Oh & seein as i was very close to what could've been a potentially nasty incident directly after the game, who allows the rangers fans to throw said missiles back only for them to be returned with interest?? I only point this out as a matter of balance you understand....
0


themodfather added 15:56 - Mar 9

were we too lightweight with adel,buzza and wayne?
the ref allowed adel to be flattened with no action.
maybe starting with miller, pvm,chimbonda may have beefed us up until the 2nd half then unleash the pace/skills of adel and co??

we had a lot of possession but rarely looked like scoring.
not a disaster as still 7 clear and just 10 to go.
0


brady added 20:31 - Mar 9

Another good performance, we now need Barry Murphy and Will Atkinson to come to the party and put in the same effort as Jones and Kennedy in midfield, Chris O Grady was class all night. we looked more threatening when Akpa Akpro came on, Hope he starts on Sat, Liam Dickinson struggled last night but still worked hard I think he just needs a goal.
0


qlrken05 added 22:25 - Mar 9

I just want to say a Big Big Thank you to Keith Hill for taking us into league 1 and allowing the supporters of Rochdale AFC to go to places like the Galpharm Stadium, "which is a premier league ground"and watch our team play some Brilliant football, even though we lost on the night, it was fantastic to watch our MIGHTY Dale play on such a big stage. I really do hope the Huddersfield player who was carried off has a rapid recovery. lets get right behind our team, & lets stuff Exeter on Saturday as well as cheating Notts County next Tuesday.
0


qpr1962 added 18:06 - Mar 12

win is win 10 POINT CLEAR .PALACE WHET DOWN TO 10 MEN QPR JUST SWITCH OFF AND HOLD ON FOR THE WIN
0


barryroch added 18:22 - Mar 12

4 4 2
0


French_Hoops added 18:36 - Mar 12

If Derry isn't MOM then there's truly something wrong! He was once more immense today.
Kenny is a class apart (although he didn't have much to do today) and Taarabt is indeed our talisman. But could he do what does if he hadn't Derry & Faurlin behind him?
0


LostBoys added 18:55 - Mar 12

I could not get a ticket but it sounded a bit ropey to start with but well on top afterwards. You cannot complain about winning 3 1 away at a side above us in the league but I do get tirec of hearing the defence hoofiong it straight to the opposition players in midfield - cant we turn defence into attack or at least hold the ball for a period. Good stuff otherwise
0


Yorkshire_Dale added 19:56 - Mar 12

No such thing as "bankers " in League 1.......but if we are to establish ourselves in this League we do need to be beating the likes of Exeter......I think we all had this down as a game to get something out of......just hope we don't trip up like last season and just stagger over the line at the last gasp.

Come on Dale.......winnng ways on Tuesday,pretty please!
0


jdalec added 20:19 - Mar 12

We've all had that feeling on bonfire night haven't we, you know the one where you buy what you think is a really good rocket that will thrill beyond all expectations?? Then comes the big moment, you light it and guess what?? Thats right it coughs, spits and farts and then falls over. Well that just about sums up Dickinson in a Dale shirt, thought he had perhaps the best performance I have seen him have but lets be honest it isn't going to happen, let him find his 15th club or whatever number he is up to now. Second half was appalling and thats being mild, best end it there before things begin to go downhill language wise.
0


onedalefan added 20:40 - Mar 12

The opposition are going to let us pass it around all day if it's pretty football but constantly going backwards. We are missing a Dagnell or Le Fondre who can 'buzz' around and disturb the defence. Can't rely on Jonah bursting forward all the time. They showed today that sometimes direct and quick is the way to go. Why are we playing wingers who then play in the middle and players who can hold it up out on the wing?
0


billericaydicky added 21:13 - Mar 12

Derry was excellent as was Faurlin, Taarabt back on form, but I have to mention Fitz Hall who I thought was outstanding today - the clearance when he was running back and stretched a leg out saved us a goal in my opinion.
0


jo_qpr63 added 00:36 - Mar 13

I thought all the team played well, for me taarabt was the standout, top class. Totally agree about fitz halls clearance..top draw. Thought our fans were a bit quite but then i was sitting in x block and had palace fans in my earhole throughout the game. Their support was full on but let themselves down by throwing bottles onto pitch..mugs. Good to see the teams around us drop points. C'mon u Rrrs
0


wombleR added 11:57 - Mar 13

Have to say I thought Derry was excellent. Quietly efficient but always in the right place and taking the right option. He even quelled the Palace bottle lobbers.
0


SomersetHoops added 12:05 - Mar 13

I was really proud to be a QPR supporter on Saturday the fans gave the team almost continuous support and it was as good as I have ever heard with the possible exception of the best games of the pre-all-seater times when we could get a lot more people in the ground. After the well discussed problems I hope Ali Faurlin appreciated the particular support he got from every corner of the ground.

I agree Shaun Derry was superb I would also say Faurlin, Kenny, Taarabt, Helguson and Orr all had very good games.

As far as I could see we were, for once, better than the scoreline suggested and if Fitz Hall had been more decisive and hoofed the ball into touch, when he had the chance, for their goal we would have kept another clean sheet. Hall looked as if he was frightened of injury if he went into a tackle that made him look as if he was playing with a yellow and second warning from the ref. If Derry had been where Hall was he would have have gone in, taken the ball and hoofed it away and Dery's judgement calls in each situation is what makes him such a good player. We could easily have scored 4 in this game and I wish we had as it would have helped my nerves at the end.

I think it was very inconsistent of Mr Atkinson to book Taarabt for kicking the ball away after the whistle, when CP did worse without a card. I actually think Taarabt's intent was to deliberately bounce it off the hoarding to the point where the kick needed to be taken, which he did ,so I can't really see it wasted any time.
0


French_Hoops added 20:42 - Mar 13

Somerset, I don’t always agree with your views but on this one, I’m almost on the same page as you are.
I agree that Hall looked passive on Palace’s goal (and seeing it again on tv confirms that). He could and should have done better.
Derry is 1 booking away from a 2 games suspension (which would be a huge blow for us) but that doesn’t stop him doing cleverly his job.
The atmosphere was absolutely fantastic indeed! I sit in block B, near to the opposite fans and everybody went bonkers especially when they started throwing bottles.
And yes, Hall stretched leg was great to see but 18000+ people (included everybody on the pitch) were probably amazed it turned out so well... Proof is that he tried a similar save a few minutes later and it was an awful one, resulting into an evitable corner (where everybody hoped it wouldn’t pan out to be another Bristol City goal, just a few minutes from the final whistle).
He is always stretching his body to the edge (to which his body obviously doesn’t react too well as he is out for 2 weeks every 3 games) and that denotes of his relative inability of properly reading the game and placing himself to a position where he wouldn’t have to on the edge almost every time.
As for Taarbs card, yes CP did the same and got away with it with a quiet word from an otherwise impeccable referee but Taarbs was unlucky to do it too later on. And I could bet my house that he knew what he was doing as there was just enough time between the whistle and the moment he hit the ball. It’s not for him or any Rangers player anyway to bring the ball to the point where it should be taken but Palace’s players responsibility. He did try to hit it on target. Classic example of time-wasting. Thus yellow card. And he didn’t complain about it either.
0


derbyhoop added 08:45 - Mar 14

I thought we dominated from the time we scored our first through to the end. Their only effort on goal was the equaliser. I'm surprised the possession stats only show 55/45 to us and the only disappointment was that, instead of putting the game to bed, we were trying to showboat. At 2-1 that smacks of an unjustified arrogance.
Both Derry and Faurlin were superb with the former shading my MOM vote.
And with Swansea, Cardiff, Forest and Leeds all slipping, it's difficult to see how we can avoid one of the 2 automatic places (subject to the FA charges, of course).
0


YouRs added 11:42 - Mar 14

Yeah I give it to Derry. Epitomised when 30 secs from end of game he smashed the ball into the paddocks to break up Palace's last attempt to get something from the game.
0


jo_qpr63 added 23:20 - Mar 14

I want to sit next to somerset and french hoops, its a party next to them and everyone's invited!
0


barryroch added 22:32 - Mar 15

3 points was the highlight, Good goal x Dawson, Abysmal attendance !!!!!!!!
0


Yorkshire_Dale added 23:29 - Mar 15

Great result tonight.....knew we had it in the bag,felt it in my water this morning.

Very poor attendance.

Oh,did I mention that I don't like Ince or Notts County?
0


French_Hoops added 16:59 - Mar 16

Don't worry Jo: Somerset & I might disagree on a few details but in the end all that matters is QPR!
0


jo_qpr63 added 21:48 - Mar 16

Not worried fella , hav'nt enjoyed supporting QPR this much for a while, and i remember watching the likes of man u and liverpool on the terrace's.Looking forward to next 4 home games in the bundle especially the golden ticket, you know the one...the one where we lift the trophy!!. C'mon u Rrrs
0


qpr1962 added 19:52 - Mar 19

its was first goal at the keepmoat and first win at keepmoat first 3pst at keepmoat so Come on U Rsssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssss
0


barryroch added 19:48 - Mar 31

They deserve a FULL house on Saturday !!!!!!!!
-5


jdalec added 19:09 - Apr 2

One of the best games of the season I thought. Brighton showed why they are on top of the table however they also showed what a physical and dirty side they can be. Never missed an opportunity to maul a Dale player and as for Poyet, he is without doubt the Sammy Macllroy of league 1, he never stopped moaning and berating the officials. Referee had a shocker and thats putting it mildly, he might be ok reffing a game tomorrow in the sunday league!! Good point gained, still in with a play off chance??? UP THE DALE
0


pnc4eva1 added 21:00 - Apr 2

how many penalties did the referee miss
0


pedrodale added 20:18 - Apr 3

Dont think the ref took one
0


qpr1962 added 22:24 - Apr 4

It was very sorry Sheffield Utd team QPR out class Sheffield Utd from start to finishs Wayne tommy alejandro was class all game Come on U Rssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssss
0


jfk added 09:01 - Apr 5

And now you're going to believe us... the Rs are going up! I finally allowed myself to sing it last night (well, I did sing it once before when we were 1-0 up against Forest. D'oh!). Always a bit wary after a 2 week break, but 3-0 is a proper win. Very happy.
0


headhoops added 09:34 - Apr 5

You can only beat what's in front of you and that we did without moving through too many gears. Some slack defending at times would have got punished by better opposition but we were always in control.

Derry & Faurlin were superb in midfield but for me the front three were exceptional in their movement and link up play. Smith, Routledge and Heidar were far too good. Heidar especially, made both goals for Wayne, almost the third and time and time again, won the ball in the air and ground and set up attack after attack. Terrific cut back for Big Pat who showed why he's a sub at the moment.

Three wins to get, bring on the Iron.
0


qpr_ox added 14:54 - Apr 5

Helguson. Man of the Match.
0


legod7 added 11:21 - Apr 6

Why is our new signing Dale Stephens called John O'Shea in the player ratings for the second game in a row
0


eusebio added 13:37 - Apr 6

You think that is wrong check out the charlton side.....Bally Smart !!!!
0


qpr1962 added 17:30 - Apr 9

ONE WORD CRAP
-9


patred added 18:31 - Apr 9

KELVIN DAVIS..a magnificent display 10/10
0


Jayman66 added 20:23 - Apr 9

On another day things could have been so different. Perhaps City used up all their finishing last match. For all the credit given to DeVries for his 2 double saves they weren't exactly the hardest saves to make. Holt and Korey especially should have stretched him a bit more and really shoukld have scored. This happens and it's 2-2 and Priskin never gets a chance.

That would have been a more appropriate score. Both sides obviously had quality but Swansea happened to have the tiny bit extra on the day. Once 2 up they could just defend, waste time and frustrate City.

I would have liked to have seen Pacheco try his luck with the free kicik early in the second half. When Boroni got his it reminded me of the youtube vids of Dani doing much the same.

So a rare defeat but still a lot of quality on show. With QPR losing this was our chance to make the move on 1st but more importantly we're still the team in 2nd place and 1 more game is gone. We were in exactly the same position a few weeks ago but now we've fewer games to go so just keep going guys. OTBC
0


themodfather added 16:34 - Apr 10

wayne is thru..one on one, could make it 2-0 and game over...goalie saves and we know the rest...
not a disaster but we seemed over run at the back...we do need full backs.
where was heidar? how bad is adel's injury?
why did buzza not start for adel?

very keen stewards seemed keen to repel any qpr "fun" ...if the army or un used these stewards maybe there's no war!
-7


qpr1962 added 10:26 - Apr 11

Back four whet a sleep one person i point out in back four was Bradley Orr he was crap he was skin alive .its true without Taaratbt we are nothing .i would like Warnock play 4-4-2 with hulse and millier up front now and again
-6


barryroch added 22:36 - Apr 12

The BEST game of the season by a country mile. Everyone gets 10/10 WELL DONE (shame the crowd was not there to cheer them on)
0


regjenkins added 23:10 - Apr 12

Nicky Adams performance was outstanding tonight amongst team players that were collectivly outstanding. Well Done DALE... crowd did their bit to help.
0


qpr1962 added 00:19 - Apr 13

NOT A PRETTY GAME WIN A WIN AND ANOTHER 3 PST
0


gjc104 added 12:39 - Apr 13

Wasnt pretty, was hard work to watch also, but won the game which is the most important thing right now!
0


SilverDale added 13:00 - Apr 13

Wake me up when the dream comes to an end - and I'll still be a very happy man.
What a great season and the games and team performamces just get better.
Give everyone a 10, and TK a 10+.
When will the Rochdale public realise what a team and high standard of football is there for them to support at Spotland
0


AshteadR added 13:07 - Apr 13

Great result, not a great performance - we gave the ball away so often i lost count....
0


themodfather added 14:36 - Apr 13

the ref would happily have let adel get 3 broken legs, endure surgery without medication and then book him!!
very poor.
how i hoped qpr would get that 2nd..then kick em back!
big win, with big away support....
0


jdalec added 11:51 - Apr 14

Agree with all above comments, what a shame the people of Rochdale and surrounding areas are not getting behind this fantastic era, they'd sooner sit at home with a Man United shirt on watching Sky TV (Sad bastards)
Keep it up Dale, we are in dreamland
0


LostBoys added 18:17 - Apr 16

We have trouble dealing with teams set up as 4 5 1 but we should still have had a hatful but we could not hit a barn door and some of the crosses were dire. But its three points and we needed them with everyone else winning
0


ingham46 added 09:13 - Apr 17

I thought that Grayson made a few mistakes in his line up Howson is not a left sided player as he showed in the Playoff Final v Donny. He persists with O'Brien who clearly has problems talking to his keeper and the other defenders. But why leave Bechio on the bench, Somma is ok off the bench but no more he has no pyhsical presence.Killa by name but not by nature why does he play when BB is clearly a better midfielder. All in all a poor afternoon's performance and a few players seem 2b not bothered about reaching the Premier League maybe they know they are not good enough which on this showing they clearly aren't. A defeat next Friday and we will loose 6th spot. I'm not annoyed because I never expected to be in the top 6 but we need a few players in next season if we hope to reach the Premiership
Keith
0


sidsaint added 12:46 - Apr 17

Lets hope class will tell in the run in. Do Prado's goal was brilliant as was his ball control skills throughout the game. Running at players and taking them on can be just as good a tactic as numerous crosses.

Lets also hope Adam is back soon.
0


qpr1962 added 22:06 - Apr 18

Derby came with game plan and work did not let QPR play
0


NorwayRanger16 added 23:05 - Apr 18

Had this down as 0-0 actually, the optimist in me went for two scorecast's of 1-0 and either Derry or Connolly as the scorer. With those unlikely scorers you see what my expectations where like.

Crap game but one more point accumulated, in the end it's not so bad.
MOM Connolly 8.

But i have to say Derby's tactics were poor and of the dark days.

Gang of thugs disguised as a fotball team is more like it. And with a poor official apointed for the game it just went from bad to worse. I thought DD first half was ok with the exception of him doing nothing to protect Taarabt, you could clearly see the kid was anxious every time the ball came his way. In the end of the game i couldn't believe how Brayford, Ayala or Davies where still out there. Mark of 3 from me, and thats being generous.

It will be interesting to see how the team and staff approach the Cardiff game both mentally and tactical. A defeat in Wales would really test the nerves of both players and fans in the remaining rounds.
0


Steve_T added 00:26 - Apr 19

NorwayRanger16, are you Arsene Wenger in disguise?
0


OldOneEye added 01:00 - Apr 19

For the second time this season, the old boy, Robbie Savage, trussed, parcelled and finally gift-wrapped Abel Taarabt before sticking him in his back pocket.

It wasn't the greatest of games, but boy, did Derby battle, and they thoroughly deserved their point. One poster seems to think that three Derby players should have been sent off. For what?

In my book, a foul on the pathetic Wayne Routledge isn't actually an offence but an act of kindness.

Even Colin in his post-match interview had to give grudging acknowledgement and tacit approval to Nigel Clough's tactics. Well played, Derby - no surrender!
0


Steve_T added 01:33 - Apr 19

Patricia Routledge you mean.
0


NorwayRanger16 added 09:38 - Apr 19

Steve T, thanks for pointing out the obvious, i'm actually a bit embarrased that i sounded like Arsene Whinger :-)

I fully support any team to go out and try to get the best result possible by any means necessary. Had Derby approached this game the same way Sheff Utd did they wouldn't have anything to show for their efforts, and in the position Derby are in who could blame them.
Hell, we have been scrapping for narrow 1-0 wins on the road all season ourselves!

OldOneEye, not that i'm hoping for red cards, just thought a proper ref (Darren Deadman is not a proper ref) should have come down a little harder on several occasions.
First Ayala, 30 seconds before his two footed tackle (which alone is a red card offense) when the ref played the advantage should have had a yellow card. 2 yellow = 1 red.
Re Brayford, idiotic behavior when pushing Gorkss in the back resulting in him hitting the camera, could have caused serious injury, straight red.
Davies, nothing spesific, just repetitive fouling throughout the game. I agree that a red for him would have been harsh.
QPR should have had two stone wall yellow themselves for cynical fouls in the second half (Faurlin and Hill).

I don't begrugde you the point gained, well deserved after a battling display, QPR didn't do enough to deserve a win imo.

Warnock has based his career on the same tactics, of course he can't say anything else :-)
0


OldOneEye added 13:54 - Apr 19

Bias is a wonderful thing - neither of us can be really relied on for an impartial viewpoint, so here's mine....

Regarding Brayford's shove - it was stupid, but take it up with Sky TV or QPR's own 'Health and Safety' people. Just because the camera is there changes nothing. When Kris Commons was shoved off the pitch at Crawley earlier on this season, he ended up over a four foot wall and into the seats. It's the foul that counts - not the consequences. Send someone off for a shove and you will end up with 2-a-side.

Ayala's challenge was not a two-footed challenge - well, not at the same time anyway. It was a lunge worthy of a booking, sure, but the second foot came in scissors-like afterwards. Neither foot made any sort of contact with the player, and it was neither 'studs showing' nor feet in the air. I've just watched it again.

Colin calling for Davies to be sent off is quite baffling when Davies was trying to get out of the way and Paddy Kenny was the one following through after his clearance. His little dig about Pride Park ('The Baseball Ground or wherever they play') just shows what happens when you mix idiots and microphones.

All the best for the rest of the season - let's hope that the FA aren't silly over the Fourlin thing.
0


themodfather added 16:28 - Apr 19

derby seem to be a bogey side for us at qpr, ok it's a pt to the total required
which i have long said 85pts will send a team up ( 83 may do it now if ipswich beat norwich)
savage again tied up adel but he still got in a moment of magic that produced a wonder chip and a great save from their goalie.
we will need to up our game v cardiff.
not a disaster...
0


headhoops added 17:08 - Apr 19

For Derby their only problem was which bus to take on the way home - they came for a point and got it. Let's face it next season if we came away from Anfield, Old T, Emirates and The Lane with a 0-0 minimum, happy days?

Can still think of 23 managers who would swop with Colin.
0


cmbann added 11:08 - Apr 21

this was not an enjoyable game to watch as derby spoiled successfully and deserved the draw.Qpr showed signs that the performance was being affected by the accumulation fatigue effect.Fresh legs are needed to get them over the line.Routledge was effective until he got booked.
Team performance was not of champions except the keeper who i believe is the best keeper in all the leagues.
I predict more fatigue affected games if the same team is chosen in the matches to come.
Defence was well drilled and a clean sheet for Paddy was the positives.
0


NorwayRanger16 added 15:42 - Apr 23

Have your say. What can you say?

Taarabt's to good for you, Taarabt's to good for you!

Yeah, that's it :-)
0


AshteadR added 16:41 - Apr 23

much improved in the 2nd half - a great point which was very nearly 3
0


LostBoys added 19:36 - Apr 23

Well done the lads I thought it was all over with the second half misses. Well done to the lucky fans who managed to get a ticket and go. Roll on Monday
0


DeanoMD added 19:56 - Apr 23

Tough game, defended like wallies in first half but i still think we were better side overall, expected more from Cardiff actually think they are quite an average side and if we were on top form we would have won easily. That said well happy with the point, a lot more so than Mr Miserable Jones who was obviously watching a different game. Second half we looked good value and should have nicked it at the end, Helguson misses a sitter no surprise there really. Support from the R's fans was awesome today, at times they were outsinging the home lot who were mainly just hurling abuse all game. Well done guys great result and the right one.
0


qpr1962 added 22:59 - Apr 23

Cardiff was better side in first half 3 great goals second half QPR was better side and great goal by taarabt and could of nick at the end overall One point was fair
0


Spot51 added 07:21 - Apr 24

I know sod all about the game beyond the result and the scorers - and the fact Brighton and their dago manager have no class.

But I have recorded the FL show and will enjoy watching it this morning.
0


HMHB added 08:58 - Apr 24

Still running around the garden , the wife is shaking her head.
0


qpr1962 added 17:41 - Apr 25

we would won league long ago we have draw to many games this season
0


kilburn added 17:51 - Apr 25

In true QPR fashion, although albeit mathematically promoted (assuming no points deduction), this was a very frustrating game to listen through. All kinds of chances to put the game away, but once again Helguson & later Agyemang were just not able to take advantage of gilt edged scoring opportunities. In the Premier League we will definitely need proven strikers who can get this job done. In the build up to their goal our defence sounded all over the place.
0


Rickster added 20:03 - Apr 25

I do not know where you have got John Bostock (was on loan from Spurs, not anymore), Daniel Cousin (disappeared at the beginning of the season somewhere), Daniel Ayala ( was on loan from Liverpool before Xmas now on loan at Derby), Rowan Vine (was on loan before Xmas for a month, he soon disappeared),Peter Halmosi (went back to his mother country to play), Ian Ashbee sold to Preston in January. A much accurate player addition would be Matty Fryatt, James Chester, Jack Hobbs, Jay Simpson, Cory Evans, James Harper and not forgetting David AMOO! In the Premier League you will get battered and Neil Warnock will still not be getting any Xmas cards from Stan Ternent!
0


newgolddream added 20:51 - Apr 25

Shades of 1976 when a 3-2 Norwich win denied us the championship trophy. Won't happen this time as we will surely get a single point in our final 2 matches to win the title. Could do without the FA hearing on tuesday week although it's looking like a hefty fine rather than a points deduction. Let's finish the job ion Saturday next in Vicarage Road .
0


Lazarus added 06:29 - Apr 26

Why oh why did we not put this to bed when we had the chance? We were totally dominant in the first half, but we seemed to lack the hunger and killer instinct, and were happy to outplay Hull without creating chances. Adel is brilliant, but it is so frustrating watching build up play that repeatedly ends with him "fannying around", rather than seeing the ball being passed to someone else less flamboyant but perhaps more focussed on getting the ball into the net in a straightforward manner. He's a terriffic talent, but not every attack has to go through him, surely?
0


dixiedean added 08:52 - Apr 26

I can't workout why Aggy has jumped above Miller in the pecking order. Compare Aggy's attempted lob with Miller's finish v Leics for instance. No doubt who I'd rather have in the team / bench. Is he injured or just out of favour? By the way Rickster, presume you're a Hull fan so you'd know all about getting battered in the prem.
0


HollowayRanger added 10:30 - Apr 26

millers gone loans over!

so its fat pat or hulse!

personally id have neither and play buszaky instead
0


Spot51 added 13:35 - Apr 26

Ref made this game a lot easier by giving the pen and sending matey off. Once SRL scored it we were always going to win.

I'm not convinced Guly was offside in the first half either. Anyone have a definitive view?

Hartlepool were well organised and the two banks of four (which remained after the sending off) proved a tough barricade. Took two dead-ball situations to undo them but it doesn't matter how you get 'em so long as you get 'em.

Fonte was superb. Connolly looked classy. Adam showed a few flashes but is not back to his best. Kelvin kept another clean sheet.
0


NorwayRanger16 added 17:32 - Apr 30

Yeeeeeeeeeeees! What a feeling, could'nt control my emotions as the whistle went. UN-BE-LIEV-ABLE!!!!

Credit to everyone involved :-)
0


toemasher added 17:50 - Apr 30

What an incredible season! Thank you all you Rangers. The parks of Shepherds Bush are full of kids in blue and white hoops...love it
0


LostBoys added 19:20 - Apr 30

Sounded good on the radio even if we went off the boil a bit in the second half. Roll on Plymouth where I did manage to get 2 tickets
0


qpr1962 added 20:06 - Apr 30

watford play there part in this game once they go to 18 yards area nothing qpr did not play very well but goals count we are qpr we are qpr O yes well done to cerny and clean sheet
0


plymhoop added 11:15 - May 1

are we allowed to vote 10 for every player????

0


MelakaRanger added 11:34 - May 1

Like many here I have waited a long long time (too long) for us to come back to our winning ways. At last a team to rival the one I watched from the terraces in the mid 70s!

Now some 18 hrs later the smile is still on my face. Sweet...........

And for heavens sake the board must stick with Warnock for next year.

0


newgolddream added 15:44 - May 7

Champions at last. Great to get our hands on that famous trophy. Well done Neil and the lads. Roll on next season.
0


ingham46 added 19:58 - May 7

Leeds just left it 2 late to push on to claim the 6th place our overall form deserved. Earlier the F L gave QPR a really nasty slap on the wrist with a couple of fines, after Leeds gave them a guard of honour they went ahead on 40 seconds when Kasper spilt a shot 2 gift them the lead. After a poor 1st 20 Leeds produced some good football resulting in Max grabbing a equaliser on 37 when he met a beauty of a thru ball from Nayls. 2nd half Leeds continued to boss possession and went ahead thru McCormack on 68 a lead they held to the end. Brilliant spoiling their party let's just hope it's us this time next year. M O T 4ever
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jo_qpr63 added 21:40 - May 7

Ha ha, ingham , as if we give a monkeys about the score today. we're 2-1 down ,who gives a f***,we're QPR and we're goin up!!
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NorwayRanger16 added 23:28 - May 7

Ingham are you for real? Congrats on the victory but i wouldn't read to much into it if i where you :-) Would we put Danny Shittu on as a forward replacing our only forward on the field, when we had other attacking options on the bench in search of a goal? Think not. It was just a nice and fun sending off for Danny as i don't think he will follow us up to the premiership. Same goes for Ramage. Just a little disapointed that Hogan was left on the bench as he really deserved to be out there today, would probably have scored as well.

MOM was an easy call today, man of the moment Ali Faurlin.

Se ya'all in the Premiership come august, and to Leeds, enjoy the w..kership for many years to come :-)

COYR's
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qpr1962 added 01:44 - May 8

this what i have waite for 15 years ups and down could not care leeds winning QPR have best team in Championsnips i think FA was not going to take that away from the fans
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legod7 added 11:16 - May 8

Come on Nick where is your report on this game.
Obviously there was nothing negative for you to report,otherwise you would have done it already.
It was a very polished performance to end the season on a high
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winchesterbob added 11:26 - May 8

Jose Fonte was immense in this convincing end of season win. Not only did he take care of his own assignment he covered for the lethargic Jaidi and the somewhat tardy Dixon whose poor position and individual error led to Walsall’s conciliation goal.
Saints had a very bright start and when we were two up inside half an hour it looked like we were in for a hat-full but Walsall never quite gave up and it was a relief when Harding came on to give a bit of surety to the left side of defence. Schneiderlin was a welcome return to the midfield, where he had an excellent game and the icing on the cake.... Oxlade-Chamberlain comes on and scores................
I’m pleased Wasall managed to hang on to league one............ I’m delighted Saints are on their way back up the divisions and can’t wait for next season to begin....Bring on the mob from down the road...
Well done to all the players, to Nigel Adkins and his staff, to all the unmentioned backroom staff, and to the stewards who on occasions have tougher job than is necessary. Thank you to Mr Cortese and Markus Liebherr to whom we shall forever be indebted..
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upthedale added 14:12 - May 8

Scott Hogan?
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ColDale added 15:24 - May 8

dunno what's happened there
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billericaydicky added 21:35 - May 8

Spoiling our party ingham? Did it look like it?

What is funny is Leeds beating us yesterday and it means nothing to you in terms of the play offs and nothing in terms of us getting the trophy.

I think your party was cancelled.

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Lazarus added 13:32 - May 9

It's a shame that we took our foot off the gas after half an hour, but understandable under the circumstances. Leeds still needed an awful deflection to win, and I hope their fans don't read anything into this result. Although a good side for the Championship, tLeeds have a long way to go to be as good as most of the teams above them this year.

Rangers are deserved champions. Let's hope West Ham stay up and Reading get promoted, so that we have a good number of "local" matches to attend next season.
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geraldo added 18:59 - Aug 6

Pretty poor show - much of the blame must go to SE for playing a keeper who was a stranger to the side until Monday and it looked like it. Kean's first half performance was dire, he dropped every cross and let the first goal thru his hands - I would have subbed him at half time.All through the game we never defended balls into the box and a lot of that must go down to the defence having no confidence in the keeper.
SE's tactics were poor and why only one substitution when we were losing??
The Chairman needs to spend some money on at least one decent striker or I fear the worst. Shef Wed won at a canter but they were a very ordinary side............
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squidofdespair added 21:54 - Aug 6

Riveting stuff watching the scores come in on the BBC website. But that's what you get for being on holiday. Upside of missing the opening game is this place is rammed with lay-dees.
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DJI added 09:53 - Aug 7

Nick, I though Paul Wotton had moved to Yeovil and Puncheon was in the reserves? And I don't remember Forte playing either?!
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overtonboy added 10:01 - Aug 7

Still can't get the smile off my face and voice has given out after an excellent day. A natural pessimist, I was hoping for a good performance but fearing the reverse score. The first openning day win I have seen since the early 80's (missed the West Ham and Coventry wins). All my 14 inbreed toes crossed for more of the same :)
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Elad6 added 11:10 - Aug 7

Very harsh on Kean.The lad only dropped one actual cross and got fingertips to divert 2 or 3 others away. As for letting it through his hands it was a powerful header he managed to get a hand to, just unable to divert away. No chance with the second volley either. He also made 2 decent saves first half and was totally composed 2nd half. You're right about the defence, we need at least one centre half with power and height to combat all the high balls you get in L1 football. If we had just one then maybe Jones wouldn't have been a danger and menace all game.
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bigprawn added 11:10 - Aug 7

Have to agree with a lot of what geraldo says. Sheff Wed didn't seem to be any great shakes as a team but then again Megson isn't renowned for putting together pure footballing teams. They were big and functional with only Prutton able to pass a ball with any great skill.

We looked narrow in my opinion, to crowded in midfield and Akpa Akpro isolated up front. He isn't a target man. We need to be playing the ball behind the back 4 for him to run onto, use that electrifying pace. O'Grady you can hit with the ball but not Jean-Louis.

Thought Tutte did well, need Nicky Adams to step up to the mark this year too.

At the end of the day though we weren't quite good enough. It's a game of inches and if Grimes shot hadn't come back off the upright with Nicky Weaver rooted to the spot it may have been a different story. Never mind, no=one ever got relegated on the forst day of the season. There are always reasons to be optimistic.
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durham_exile added 12:10 - Aug 7

An inspired all round performance from the U’s deservedly produced the league one result of the day.

The faithful were in good voice throughout and 242 often outsung the library like surroundings of Deepdale.

Clearly the plaudits will be for the goalscorers and once again the U’s have started with a great win to rival the 6-3 at Saltergate and 3-0 at Hillsborough.

I was particularly impressed with Matt Heath who played the best game for the U’s that I have watched.
But there were so many positives – Cousins after an initial fumble was resolute and stood firm.
Brian Wilson delivered another solid performance. Magnus was colossal and Michael Rose looks a sure fire winner – his free kick will be worth checking out on the highlights shows.
Formation was clearly 4-5-1 but Kayode Odejayi received plenty of support from Hendo and Woody.

John Joe O’Toole ran the midfield and looks better each game. The captain also produced a terrier like midfield performance.
The bench included Rio, Gilly, James, Coker and White – no Goalkeeper.

On the negative side I do wish that Vincent would not fade away in the second half as he often does fitness perhaps or temperament, I don’t know.

I listened to BBC Lancashire sitting in the car park after the game and Phil Brown was scathing of his defence likening them to sunday league players. Now make no mistake the suggestion was once again that Preston played badly to allow the U’s to prevail.

The fact is that Colchester deserved to win and with a little more fortune in front of goal could have scored six with a hattrick for Hendo.

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brunof added 05:58 - Aug 8

negatives,Didnt create much,looked disjointed,
positives,showed good football in bursts,looked fit.
obviously missing dawsons long range passing,we were much more direct than last season,too direct 1st half,my view is that it may take 6,7 games for the group to form mini partnerships together,and more importantly for the new mngmt team to shape the team,we need to keep hold of c ogrady...
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SaintNick added 10:54 - Aug 8

sorry about the problems on here its being sorted.
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qpr1962 added 16:59 - Aug 13

Crap
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qpr1962 added 16:59 - Aug 13

Crap
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HollowayRanger added 18:20 - Aug 13

Did we expect anything less?

dyer injured shock!
hill red card shock!
QPR beat 0-4 shock

not really championship players miss premiership dont ,felt sorry for warnock and players they cant be faulted for trying and we edged the first half but second half we just never got going ,taarabt dissapeard faulin chased shadows defence over run and that against a average premiership team ,just dont get the board they spend dosh to get us up ,but expect us to survive against the big boys with peanuts,dont like the shirts look like zebra crossings dont like the booing but how else can we let the fat one know how we feel ,no sponsor will touch us no one will buy us price must have fallen somewhat after today surely?
reo cokker motm for me a freebie we could have got!!!! but didnt try/wouldnt pay wages ! typical
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Daniel added 18:37 - Aug 13

2 points lost rather than 1 point gained. The U's really should have capitalised of such a dominant first half. Wycombe were worthy of their goal in the second half, even if it did come from the penalty spot, whether it was a penalty is debatable, I didn't get that good a view.

Tactically John Ward got it spot on first half, but when Vincent went off and Gillespie game on, the formation should have changed or Gillespie should have played behind Odejayi. Instead Gillespie played on the wing with Wordsworth in the middle.
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Rob23 added 00:07 - Aug 14

First half nothing between the teams, if anything we shaded it. Only a 1 in 100 shot from Cahill and we conceded at the worst possible time. Then a stupid own goal and deflection killed the game. I think we gave up after that. It's a dreadful result but I don't think we were/are as bad as the result. The only hope is that now teams might underestimate us. IMO Connolly and Gorkks should be nailed on as the centre half partnership and I can't believe it isn't.

Also I like the jerseys!!! Am I the only one?
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MelakaRanger added 07:00 - Aug 14

As 6000 miles away I have only just watched the match. It really was "Men against Boys". Bolton were agressive and free with their fouls. We did not seem to be able to deal with such a strong team. Also whenever we had the ball, Kenny just hoofed it up the field and most every time we lost possession. No one shone, no one caused a threat to Bolton.
As for Dyer - well that was a surprise - NOT
Without 3 or 4 more quality players coming on board and FAST we had better get used to such scorelines.
Its a real shame that we have such uncaring owners. Hopefully that will change in the coming few days.
But as always - Come on your Rsssssss - Things can only get better from now on:)
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Harbour added 09:06 - Aug 14

First half ok held our own
second half not in it
new boys dyer injury what a surprise thought Gabbidon did ok first half - not convinced about bothroyd might get better
DJ needs ball to feet
sorry but i think when we go behind the crowd ours have to try and lift the team not sit in silence Briatorre needs to spend or expect the verbals he got and deserved lets hope we get a few signings and things improve.....thought derry did ok seemed to be giving 100% as usual Come on Urs
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pnc4eva1 added 11:55 - Aug 14

Huddersfield were the better of the teams playing some very attractive and penetrating football.

Dale showed good spirit to fight back twice.

An enjoyable game and good value entertainment
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richranger added 17:07 - Aug 14

I thought we were unlucky not to be ahead in the first half. Before their goal Bolton hadn't threatened at all. Kevin Davies was his usual fouling self. As Warnock said in his post match interview, Davies was penalised 7 times, mainly for pushing, but didn't get booked - exactly when does foul play become persistent??

Their first goal was right out of the blue - a great strike by Cahill - but was given all the time in the world to steady himself and pick his spot. Where was the challenge on him??

The timing of the goal seemed to hit us badly and we never really recovered.

The second half saw Bolton come much more in to it - and they looked far stronger and fitter than us - something I'm surprised to see against us. OK, they may be physically bigger - but lots of our players seemed to be running on empty only after about an hour of the game. Did all the chaos of recent days affect their training?

The second goal was really soft and a real killer. After that heads went down. I don't think the anti-Briotore chants helped either.

Hill getting sent off was just plain stupid.

Was some encouraging signs in the first half - but second half was a mare. We need 3-4 new players at least (including a left and right back before the Everton game) if we are to be competitive at this level.

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rontheranger added 17:33 - Aug 14

I personally think we well over achieved last season and this game was simply an example of how poor (Esp defensively) we really are...
No idea why Warnock thinks we can play 4-2-3-1 in this league.
One of the biggest difference between the championship and premiership is teams are clinical, 1 chance 1 goal (E.G Gary Cahill's goal).
We're gonna seriously struggle this year and unless we get a good set of full backs (Sorry but Hill and Orr are not premiership class) and a Taarabt learns how to work hard for the team.
We cannot afford Taarabt in this league we need Workhorses!
Wonder how long its gonna take until:
1) Taarabt is dropped
2) We go 4-4-2 (DJ and Boothroyd upfront)
3) We are outside south African road calling for Briatores head!

Either way, we need to get behind the players and support them and the manager 110%

When Dyer got injured the atmosphere died and the players seemed to loose their fight.

If its one season we're here lets not let anyone stop us singing our hearts out!
Urrrssssss
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Spanishhoops added 21:19 - Aug 14

Unlucky with a couple of the goals - great strike by Cahill - can't do anything about that sort of strike. Horrible own goal by Gabbidon and nasty deflection for the third. But what was horrible to see was how much space we let them have through the middle and in the final third. Reo Coker had so much time and space - watch West Brom today and although they lost they squeezed the defence and got men behind the ball which made life much harder for Man utd..
I was impressed by Derry but he can't keep pace for the whole 90 mins and Faurlin looked a little lightweight, too easily pushed off the ball.
Positives - Bothroyd looks quality already and until we went behind we looked much the better side. Got to play like that for the full 90 in this league though.

Lets just hope this serves as a wake up call to the FB and BE that we need a couple of quality players if we're not going to get carved apart by better teams than Bolton this year.

Come On You RRRRRsssssss
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Daniel added 22:57 - Aug 16

A fair result against a tidy side who are sitting top of the league for a reason. Unfortunately mistakes from Rose gave them both of their goals and despite having a lot of possession the U’s simply failed to create chances in the box or break down Charlton in the final third.

New loan signing Michail Antonio looked good in the first half, but went missing in the second. Once he was subbed off United lost their pace in attack. Mark Cousins was MOTM keeping the score at 0-2.
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LostBoys added 23:53 - Aug 16

Fantastic stuff I wish I could have been there
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simmo400 added 06:38 - Aug 17

Well done Saints for standing strong after there comeback. Keep that up and were a top 6 finish easy.
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saintgus added 10:46 - Aug 17

Great performance , we had to dig in again 2nd half.Must mention Morgan who I thought was also brilliant when he came on at a time when we were under the cosh. The chip through for the 4th goal was sublime
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qpr1962 added 17:39 - Aug 20

What a win after last week players out with the flu well done to all the team
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newgolddream added 18:36 - Aug 20

A fantastic win and a great boost for the new regime. We have been excellent away from home in recent times apart from the Scunthorpe debacle. Let gets back on track at The Bush with a thumping win on Tuesday night. U R's.
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Yorkshire_Dale added 18:39 - Aug 20

Hands up anyone who gave Trottman or that Referee any more than a 1

Unfortunately,you cannot give any less!

idiots....both of em!
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Doughnut added 19:35 - Aug 20

Good God...never a dull moment supporting the R's
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YorkshR added 19:44 - Aug 20

Great performance by Rangers against a lacklustre Everton team. Apart from one free kick which Paddy was nowhere near to, Everton never really threatened our goal. Smith took his chance well and Derry was terrific in midfield.

Ahead of any marquee signings, this was a great confidence boost for the club, let's hope we can keep the momentum going at Wigan.
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geraldo added 22:51 - Aug 20

Certainly a very soft pen and Trotman has only himself to blame for two needless yellow cards.
What is worrying is how we can dominate for almost 30 mins and not score.Also I think that SE might be out of his depth, he doesn't seem capable of changing anything and to substitute your best striker with a defender when you are two down is just bizarre
Unless we make significant improvements to the squad I fear the worst ( 4 games in which we concede two goals in 3 of the games and only score in 1 tells it's own story)
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MelakaRanger added 23:48 - Aug 20

One word. Sweet
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Dale_Iain added 13:20 - Aug 21

Geraldo in 'being a negative tw@t' shocker...
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saintwonston added 15:37 - Aug 21

I am surprised one of the knockers has not suggested giving ratings for Nick's comments!!
Keep up the good work Nick.
I thought NA got subs spot on as I felt Hammond was tiring and AL was not as creative as usual.
A good result at the end of the day.In previous years we would have lost the game after giving the ball away so many times unecessarily as we did yesterday.
My only cooment on Seabourne is that he tends to play the ball up in the air when bringing it out of defence instead of a pass on the ground.

But remember the sign of a good team is one that wins when not playing at their best.

COYR
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jdalec added 20:05 - Aug 21

Widdowson did not look comfortable when asked to push up the field, i'm not singling him out. Grimes goes AWOL too often, Tutte- good player but getting shoved about too easily. We need to get some teeth up front and start taking our chances. I think it will come but God I hope its soon!!
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qpr1962 added 22:15 - Aug 23

Pile off crap well done to Rochdale came with a game plan and won
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bishom added 23:25 - Aug 23

Load of rubbish. Established squad players treated it as a run out, but the real worry is that players looking to make the final 25 man squad didn't seem to give a shit except from Harryman when he came on. Just reinforces our lack of depth in the squad. The game lacked pace, desire and passion. Very disappointing.
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BasingstokeR added 01:15 - Aug 24

For me it summed the match up that when we had in the 2nd half maybe our closest attempt on goal, instead of cheers - knowing laughs came from most quarters as it just wouldn't go in the net
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G_Dale added 17:18 - Aug 27

Load of crap. Widdowson was our best and only attacking threat and he is our left back
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jannersaint added 17:43 - Aug 27

Who does the stats above? goal on 48 would be a second half goal! Was Seaborne as bad as it sounded on radio solent? Really need someone a bit more solid I think. Fox and De Ridder seemed to make a difference.
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Phil26 added 21:08 - Aug 27

The honeymoon's over now, I'm tired of turning the other cheek and having a stiff upper lip! Hill's gone and we have to deal with it! Players raving to come to Rochdale for Steve Eyre... Shall we start putting some basics together before we start to be fed what we are used to for so long? It really is no wonder that the crowds stay away! What are the players doing individually to make them sharper and better than the opposition? I don't care if the excuse is we are only a 1st division outfit, even that sounds strange! It matters not.. If you want to be the best, you have to work hard and better than anyone else. PPPPP, proper preparation prevents poor performance! I am so disappointed after giving my total support to Steve Eyre. It quite simply isn't good enough. Anyone can talk up a strategy, delivering it is the key to success surely?
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jdalec added 21:25 - Aug 27

It won't be long before some long hard questions will have to be asked of Steve Eyre, we simply cannot wait forever. We have gone from playing like a champoinship team in the waiting to a bunch of sunday league cloggers!!
shit
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Chaddite added 22:16 - Aug 27

Frank FIELDING 5
John BRAYFORD 8
Jason SHACKELL 6
Mark O'BRIEN 6
Craig BRYSON 7
James BAILEY 6
Ben DAVIES 6
Jeff HENDRICK 5
Kevin KILBANE 5
Steve DAVIES 4
Jamie WARD 4
Lee Croft 6
Theo Robinson 6

The big difference between the 2 sides was Charlie Austin,someone who knew how to put the ball in the net!!
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Phil26 added 22:16 - Aug 27

Well pissed off! Hey, kick the ball, pass, no,
pass, for f**** sake. Tackle, no, tackle, for f**** sake. Keep it then make an intelligent decision, no, keep it then make an intelligent decision, for f**** sake, etc., etc. What more can we ask?
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LostBoys added 00:42 - Aug 28

I could only listen on the radio and I have just watched the highlights. We looked poor first have and Seaborne and Richardson looked like spectators with Guly awful. My only complaint about Lallana is that sometimes you have to put your foot through the ball and go for power.
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LostBoys added 00:44 - Aug 28

Soprry I forgot their third goal was just a shove by Bamba. I do not know how the ref and linesman missed it.
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Yorkshire_Dale added 01:02 - Aug 28

Steve says on Beeb "we need a bit of quality in both penalty areas".....I say we need much more than a bit,Stevo!

We were chasing shadows today against a mediocre but hardworking Pools outfit who last season we would have dicked well and truly.

We cannot distribute from the back...Holness & Pim,you know what I mean. Grimes may as well not be up front for the very poor service he receives,talk about scraps! Our subs were very very poor,no options.Well done Tutte for not giving up.

The only good thing today was donkey Trotman was nowhere near the starting 11.....

....come on Steve & Co, shake em up,and quickly!

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ElvaRam added 07:13 - Aug 28

Aerial Hoof it Ball to Little Men was a waste of time. We were far better playing, good on the ground passing ball.
It was Open Day on our Left Side of defence, Kilbane constantly was skinned. Still many positives and well done our half time subs.. They ran their socks off !
Got soaked walking to the car park ! lol
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MelakaRanger added 08:11 - Aug 28

Agyemang needs to be sent to the Knackers Yard. It was embarassing to watch him attempt to perform. For the Love of God never let him wear a QPR shirt again.
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geraldo added 08:21 - Aug 28

I was not in favour of SE's appointment and was slagged off for saying so.
I am struggling to see what he has brought to the club and even the pre match warm ups seem so lacking compared to last year - maybe this is why we concede so many early goals?
Our central defence has looked weak all season but yesterday I thought we were totally over run in midfield with Tutte spending most of his time in the back four - SE's answer was to take off JK who is far and away our best player at closing down.
The team look like a bunch of strangers with half from the KH days and half SE's mates from the City Academy - unless we buy some quality rather than pick up cast offs then we are heading back to the days of Lg 2 strugglers and crowds under 2000.
The only bright note is that JLAA is twice the player he was last season..............
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pnc4eva1 added 09:07 - Aug 28

We need to play with more grit.

Too weak and easily rolled ovber but it will come
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qpr1962 added 11:29 - Aug 28

Hit bar 3 times I think qpr going right way with this new players in we will get better
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Harbour added 14:15 - Aug 28

unlucky not to get a point. defence an issue....and up front
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kirbys added 15:36 - Aug 28

One thing became apparent yesterday - we are a little off the mark in the essential central defence area, where despite the usual biting tackling of Holness we suffered from an almost total lack of ball winning headers in the air, distribution which lacked so much quality it was putting pressure straight back on the side. Up front Akpro is having to work so hard to create something and the lay offs were going no where as Grimes seems to always be running in the opposite direction to his partner ( it is early days to be sure and this may come good in time).
In midfield it was just hard work as Hartlepool moved the ball around quickly and effectively - too effectively as too often tackles were not made or able to be made.
It is early days and on the positives Steve and the staff have plenty of material to analyse and work on - which I am sure they will. We did make more chances than in previous matches and that's progress. I believe the side will be disappointed with that result and will bounce back next Saturday.
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Phil26 added 22:09 - Aug 28

Geraldo, you make a fair comment....I'm still hoping you are proved wrong, as I'm sure you are, but for this to happen the men being paid need to stand up and be counted! Analysis is fine, execution is another matter.
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geraldo added 08:29 - Aug 29

I don't understand kirbys comment about analysis - we have lost a lot of football matches ( remember Wrexham and Crewe as well as the 3 league games) and we need some action.
Does our management team watch the players we get in on loan our just pick from sort of list of who is available - their record to date is pretty poor.
Phil my concern about SE is that coaching at academy level is a million miles away from managing in a tough league like Lg 1 where the physical side of the game is so key.
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Phil26 added 22:19 - Aug 29

I was excited in having a possible link to a Premiership set up. As we know here at Rochdale, there has always been a small group of loyal fans, and a lot of that small fan base is the result of constant poor football over many years, which quite simply people apart from the genuine fans, will not pay to watch, and who can blame them? We have the opportunity to keep away from division 4, arrrgh!
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SheffieldSteve added 09:22 - Aug 30

Agree MelakaRanger, but Agyemang certainly did put pressure on the Wigan defence in the first half, but why HE wasn't taken off second half, I don't know, others must have had injury or fitness problems... Also, and I do like him, Smith couldn't make a pass in the second half, he should have been subbed too...
One of those matches where things didn't go our way, like the Bolton match, the score doesn't reflect the match, but we have to get on with it, still 35 matches, and we're looking like making signings++
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geraldo added 14:10 - Aug 30

I came to Rochdale in 1974 and have watched dale since about 1980 so have seen lots of dross as you have.
I can see that the link to city is an exciting one but to date it hasn't produced anything.
We need to bring in some real experience if we are to stay in this lge - but I am concerned that SE is only interested in young players.
His treatment of JK who is one of our best players sums this up for me.Note that SE consistently scores 2/3 on this forum......
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MelakaRanger added 00:35 - Sep 3

25 man squad announced - NO Agyemang!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
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geraldo added 11:32 - Sep 4

Yet another nail in SE's coffin - he clearly isn't up to the job and is tactically naive.Why go with 3 upfront in a game we couldn't afford to lose?
I don't think SE knows how to win football matches - he is obviously very gifted in coaching and developing young talent but League football is about getting results, not about weaving pretty patterns in midfield.
I expressed this view on his appointment and was called all the names under the sun with "negative" being the kindest.
The real faults lie with Dunphy for appointing someone with no experience and KH for leaving the team in such a mess.
Unfortunately SE and the supporters will be the biggest losers...
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14bowlers added 12:27 - Sep 4

whilst I wish SE all the best, I do feel we need someone with more experience in what is close to being a championship league.There is a massive difference between the junior league at Man City , and the blood and thrust of a very hard Div. one. By all means give him a chance of league football, but instead of bringing in City kids and favourites, lets spend a few bob on an experienced ex manager to help and guide him.UP THE DALE.
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Phil26 added 13:50 - Sep 4

I now see your point Geraldo. I suppose the job of an academy chief in a large organisation is to eventually produce a player or two out of hundreds. If that is achieved then he has been successful. Sadly we obviously haven't got that facility or money to through at it in the hope of producing something. We need action now, to say I'm frustrated is an understatement! Also in any well run team, the players have to chip in and make sure they are the best in their league. If that means talking to others to get us out of this mess then please let them think deeply. Surely if things aren't right on the pitch as you are playing a game then surely they should want to change things! The problem is after a fluke result at QPR they seem to have patted themselves on the back, Season over! Well it may be if things don't change quickly!
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geraldo added 14:02 - Sep 4

Thanks Phil - I think the obsession with ex City players is working against us as there are so many other players we should be looking at.
jason Kennedy must be pig sick after being the first player to be subbed every week - he is arguably amongst our best 2/3 players and yet SE treats him like dirt whilst the likes of Grimes ( lazy) and Tutte ( too weak) play the full 90 every week.
I understand that SE was told there was money to spend but obviously he couldn't find an ex City player to buy...............
There could be mayhem at Bury if we lose next week.
What a waste of all the good work of the last 4 years.
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Phil26 added 15:01 - Sep 4

Absolutely!
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geraldo added 01:39 - Sep 11

Fantaaaaaaastic!!

I have been one of SE's biggest critics but he certainly got it right today.What looked like 3 strikers was actually a very fluid 4 4 2 that worked a dream.
We haven't had a header on target so far but here we score two and hit the bar with another,
Perhaps he could have brought JK on earlier and then we perhaps wouldn't have conceded the second but all in all a master class from SE - roll on Tues.......
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olympicdale added 02:37 - Sep 11

must have missed Ryan lowe playing ;)
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Pops2 added 06:49 - Sep 11

Nah, just cack
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debbiesfella added 11:19 - Sep 11

Whats this Ryan Lowe playing and not scoring !!!
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qpr1962 added 23:09 - Sep 12

THIS SHOULD BE A WIN POOR FINISH BY THE DONKEY JAY BOTHROYD SORRY DJ MUST START NEXT GAME
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baldyhoop added 23:33 - Sep 12

Thought Shaun derry and Ali faurlin were immense tonight. SWP is a class act, full backs were solid, Adel magic, Barton behaved etc. We looked the dogs rather than a club going to the dogs. We need goals but that will come. Two points dropped but hope and optimism abound
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MelakaRanger added 00:47 - Sep 13

Yes we should have won this and Jays finishing was poor. But what a difference to Bolton! next time DJ should start and not Jay.

This was a team of men against men!

We will play worse than this and win many games.

Sean W-P was brilliant.

Onwards and upwards. This team is a team to be reckoned with
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fakekerby added 08:49 - Sep 13

Jay a donkey?

qpr1962 You are either a WUM or just an idiot.
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BlackCrowe added 13:37 - Sep 13

What fakekerby said.
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MedwayR added 18:39 - Sep 13

Top performance, full of optimism.

Boothroyd missed chances but his all-round game & hold-up play was spot-on. The midfield was superb, defence solid, full-backs were very good & looked to attack at every opportunity. MOTM for me was Luke Young.
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antoknee64 added 18:46 - Sep 13

Great performance all round the team,praise to JayB held up play and passed off superb,difficult to be everywhere setting up attacks and finishing! where was our Adel and JoeyB when the ball was flashed across the box.
All in all great result considering Newcastles results so far.
Bring on Wolves (to the slaughter).
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jobley added 19:12 - Sep 13

Just like to echo those that could see the positives of Jay B - I thought he was great. Disappointed he didn't score, his approach to the game was spot on. His finishing will improve, start.... soon. A team as creative as we have well he will definitely start finishing soon.

What do you think of the comments about Traore? Warnock will toughen him up and make him a better player. I reckon less pressure by not playing at home and not infront of the cameras will see us get a result against Wolves. Great to feel optimistic!
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AshteadR added 19:47 - Sep 13

What a great game and superb team performance considering we had 5 debutants. Everyone played their part, including Kenny who made a fabulous save in the first half. Can't wait for Saturday.
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jfk added 20:19 - Sep 13

Alot of talk in the press about the new boys and Taarbs - not suprisingly, and they did play well - but I thought Derry and Faurlin had great games too. Great to see them doing it in the Prem.
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Northernr added 22:17 - Sep 13

Fakerby - it's a little of both I feel.
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onlyrinmoray added 15:03 - Sep 16

Ali Faurlin was brilliant MOM for me. Great to be optimistic but as ever with QPR I was expecting that late Ryan Taylor free kick to go in, after all the chances we missed
I watched the game in Jersey whilst on holiday, as usual from my experience of watching QPR in pubs, there were 4 of us in the bar. One guy at the bar, my missus reading a book, and the barmaid cleaning up. Not exactly a great atmosphere !
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qpr1962 added 17:33 - Sep 17

What a win qpr new look team are play well
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jdalec added 19:38 - Sep 17

I thought we played really well especially in the 2nd half. If we can keep playing like that I believe we will keep our league one status. We are starting to gel as a team now and the future looks a lot brighter since our day out in Bury. Whilst we lack a bit of height up front I think the combination of Ball, Grimes and Tutte combined with the older heads of Jonah and kennedy we are looking good. Fear not the futures bright, the futures Eyre !!!!!
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bamburger added 21:13 - Sep 17

The team never really took control of the game today despite two late goals. The forwards looked pretty sharp at times, with grimes and ball linking up well. Defensively though, we looked all over the place, with the big boot in evidence far too often. The link up play from defence through midfield and on was conspicuous by its absence.
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BasingstokeR added 21:33 - Sep 17

Similar performance to the Newcastle game, but with goals!
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MelakaRanger added 00:04 - Sep 18

Best game so far, though Wolves were very poor indeed. The first 30 mins were magic but I did feel we turned off the gas a bit as the game went on.

But what a sweet victory and we have real hope now for a decent season.

Thank you Tony F!

Come on your Rs!
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ingham46 added 04:26 - Sep 18

Another game where we Played poorly but still won. Paddy ain't the player he was b4 his injury and although redeemed by hus penalty save Andy Lonnergan distribution was shocking.
What bothered the fans most was the lack of spark in midfield with both Clayton and Howson being over shadowed by the returning Kilkenny. Nunez has skill but he ain't a Gradel and although Keogh tried if chances come along like Saturday he needs 2 finish them. A poor show b4 the scum game
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timcocking added 05:42 - Sep 18

Simply magnificent performance. We butchered Wolves. Disappointed with the ref/linesmen; blatant violent fouls from several Wolves players went unpunished all game long, with Rangers picking up bookings for dissent! Ridiculous.
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SheffieldSteve added 08:44 - Sep 18

Crackling performance! Wasn't a poor individual performance among the team, just a lot of very good performances :-)
Traore is showing he can attack as well as defend, was the horror of the Arse v Manure match to do with the zonal system they play? Or because he was playing with worse defenders there than at QPR now? Who knows? What I do know is, that he, along with the rest of the newer signings, have been welcome signings of quality players at a modest price!
The defence is looking solid, and the midfield is looking electric all the way up to the opposing box. Don't want to single out anyone really, as they all played excellently... but Faurlin - Barton - SWP, and Adel for the first half, were scintillating!
Things are looking bright, things are looking Rangers :-D
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pebbles added 10:58 - Sep 18

Seems like the keeper is the whipping boy for a defence without an aggressive header of the ball or a strong tackler.After watching the goals again it seems its free shots almost every week and from every angle.Perhaps the manager's role should include encouragment rather than subtle put downs as directed at Trottman,when he was harshley judged to have given a penelty away.He always seems to be ranting on the touchline at certain players.
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kirbys added 17:48 - Sep 18

Was a good match for the neutral but in truth Dale were up against promotion candidates who always had enough in reserve to keep Dale in check.
Charlton exploited their height advantage all over the pitch and we lost possession too many times to be able to pressurise. Dale did have a shout having clawed back a two goal deficit through guts and endevour rather than guile and skill and for a few minutes the composed Charlton back four were beginning to get rattled.
Credit to Dale for taking it to them in the final stages but tired legs and the lack of a ball winner in the air - with the exception of a bullet header from Grimes - told in the end.
But we won't meet such opposition every week and can score goals - but that soft centre and airial defficiency mean we will have trouble stopping goals against.
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walshy15a added 18:46 - Sep 18

When your own fans are booing you in the first half the writing was on the wall for Wolves,we can only improve with performances of this calibre,we played some sweet football,and our fans singing"Premier League your avin a larf"sumed things up,we`re staying up have no worries on that score !
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AshteadR added 20:27 - Sep 18

Another top performance, but with the goals this time. Never really looked in trouble - could have won by more
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bigprawn added 20:57 - Sep 18

Have to agree with Bamburger and Pebbles. Defensively, in the centre at least, we look frail. Fullbacks look good, especially Darby who looks quality!! Holness seems to be missing Dawson, although I think he is our best centre half at the moment. I'm yet to see Balkestein break into a sprint, far too casual for my tastes and I think Trotman needs to settle and just accept that he's a centre half at a lower league club and isn't playing in the Champions League. I may be being a bit harsh there so apologies. I think the keeper will be fine, you can see Dave Lucas on the sidelines talking to him throughout the match, giving him advice. Sadly this doesn't help with decision making in the game and this is where a keeper makes his name. Yes, from my angle he should have taken the cross that lead to the 3rd goal but he also made a couple of really good saves. He'll save us more points than he'll cost us at the end of the season.

All in all, decent performance against a decent side (not as good as Huddersfield this year or Brighton last year in my opinion) and they'll probably go up. We'll be ok.

Up the Dale!!
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QPRski added 22:20 - Sep 18

Pace, solid defence, creativity, attacking flair, excellent team work plus brillance from SWP, Taarabt and Faurlin.

A repeat of the Newcatle game ; minus the lapse loosing of the ball and a plus of goals scored!

A true joy to watch!
A true away destruction of a weak Wolves performance?
...or did we nor let them play??
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Yorkshire_Dale added 20:26 - Sep 21

So,that's one cup we are out of,beaten by the lowest placed league club left in....great.

If we give away sloppy corners,we should learn how to defend them.

Every Manager in League 1 will know about a soft defence and relish playing us at the moment......action please Mr Eyre.
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jdalec added 13:48 - Sep 24

would have had a dream fixture against Man Utd at Spotland. Typical Rochdale!!!!
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LostBoys added 19:49 - Sep 24

I only listened on the radio and saw the goals on Sky but were the Lambert and lallana misses as bad as they sounded. You will not win any league missing headers from 6 yards.
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a12ranger added 13:18 - Sep 25

The U's bounced back with a Clean Sheet after conceeding 3 at Sheffield Utd the week before. U's started brightly and were playing some neat football around the back. Antonio made problems for Walsalls back four and it wasnt long before the u's put some shots to test former U's Loanie Jimmy Walker. Walsall had 3 ex Colchester Players in there team. including Lee Beevers and Ryan Jarvis. Colchester looked the better of the two teams and looked like they would score first. But when Antonio burst through on goal it was Butler who bought down the speedy winger, the ref looked like he wasnt going to give it but with assistance from the linesman on that side pointed to the spot, which then resulted in Butler seeing a red card flashed at him. Wordsworth stepped up and slotted home for his 6th goal of the season. After this Walsall never looked like scoring and just sat with all 10 players behind the ball. U's passing looked quality but only because they were under no preasure until entering walsalls final 3rd. Antonio was creating chances and Odejayi had 3 really good chances to score, 1 a header from 3 yards which he put over, a 1 on 1 saved well by Jimmy Walker down to his left and then a bullet header from 7 yards from a Wordsworth corner that could have only been reactions from the Walsall shot stopper Jimmy Walker. When Odejayi was withdrawn, Matt Heath played the final 5 minutes up front with Antonio and Duguid beside him. The Colchester back four were solid and Williams first league appearence resulted in a deserved clean sheet. Williams showed confidence through the game, and will now be competing for Mark Cousins number 1 jersey. Even though the u's thought out a comfortable 1-0 win there were a hints of boo's around the ground, but the u's will take 3pts against a team thatat back and made it hard for Colchester to play there football.
Colchester Gazette Star Player : Wordsworth
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qpr1962 added 18:48 - Sep 25

The ref was a total ass wipe never a pen qpr should had two pens I think when Campbell is far better player than that donkey jay
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quickpassrotter added 21:30 - Sep 25

Actually, I thought hat Both ran the line well, particularly in the first half. He held it up well, and brought others into play. Difficult job if we are just going to play with just the lone striker. HH did show him how it's done when he came on, I admit. Wish we could turn the clock back 10 years on HH, but then again he would not have that experience then.He knows how to get the fouls around the box, as witnessed today. Villa played the referee well. Amazing that not one of their players did not receive a second yellow for all their continuous fouls. I thought that we would see a performance like that from him. At least he is persistent - a woeful referee every week in the EPL.
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HamptonR added 22:28 - Sep 25

Match of the Day 2.

Cleverly edited to make Aston Villa the better team, and the ref was one decision away from being perfect?
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NorthfieldsR added 23:51 - Sep 25

HamptonR...my thoughts exactly on MOD2!

Do we have to be so negative about Bothroyd? It's all so reminiscent of how a significant minority treated Paul Furlong for a long time...he holds the line well and the goals will come...don't crucify him
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cranieboy added 12:58 - Sep 26

Bothroyd does well but because he comes wide so much we need one of the supporting cast to be busting a gut to get to the edge of the six yard box for a cross.
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simmo400 added 13:20 - Sep 26

Totally agree with LostBoys. Need to practice heading before Cardiff game. Disgrace missing the whole goal from 7 yards or so. 2 points chucked away on chances made. COYR
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sidsaint added 21:05 - Sep 29

I think its great that we have someone like Nich who can stimulate Saints fans. We are all passionate about our club and everyone has favourites and those that we don't rate. I think its obvious that we should have bought a quality defender and striker. They were available and if the press are to be believed NA's choices were quality but we missed out probably because of poor negotiations. We're doing well and play good football but need more options and a couple more quality players if we want to gain automatic promotion.
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LostBoys added 18:42 - Oct 1

Not at our best with quite a few misplaced passes and overhit crosses and some missed chances but whenever we got into gear we were very good.
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LostBoys added 18:45 - Oct 1

I forgot I was very pleased for Lee Holmes and his goal. It might only have been a cameo performance but the goal will do him the world of good confidence wise
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Yorkshire_Dale added 23:56 - Oct 1

Great start to the month.....well done Dale.

Need to get something on Tuesday night as well, and we are then really on the up!
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winchesterbob added 10:33 - Oct 2

First half was fairly even and we were lacking a bit of confidence until we got the pen, which was a very good spot by the ref. and huge credit to Ricky for getting into the right place to force the error. After the opening goal Saints imposed themselves on the game more and more. Second half Watford were spent and it was all Saints and to be fair 4 - 0 might be seen as scant reward because it could have been 8 - 0 with Lallana and Chaplow both being unlucky not to add to the score line. They won't come much easier that Watford who lacked any heart or endeavour.

Go on have a look! who's top of the Championship?

THE SAINTS GO MARCHING ON.... COYR
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qpr1962 added 17:00 - Oct 2

What pile off crap how mush we paid this over rated players
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eghamranger added 18:36 - Oct 2

money back please! no one played well and Bothroyd, hall and orr were a total disgrace!
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smegma added 20:38 - Oct 2

Hall has always been a disgrace. The likes of Orr and Bothroyd only stoopedto his level. But WHY OH WHY did we make so many changes when only Connolly/Traore were unavailable ? Surely Young should've been at right back ? And this one upfront has not worked, FULL STOP. Can we try 442 please. Sacrifice one of the 5 midfielders and see how we cope because Fulham never got out of 1st gear and still the score flattered us.
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RBLOCKPAT added 00:25 - Oct 3

The Rangers fans were magnificent throughout the game, the players weren't and we have a problem. Neil has to change the formation, Taraabt is wasted playing safe one twos on the left of midfield he is our best finisher and he is getting nowhere near the box. Barton todayl went missing inthe first half and I am still waiting for him to show me why there has been so much hype about him I would rather have Buzsaky. Joey Barton looks very average and he has got to pull his finger out quickly! Hall Orr and Bothroyd look very Championship and just not good enough. What made my afternoon was seeing the return of Jamie Mackie the one man that wants to die for the Rs and I cannot wait to see him team up with DJ Campbell against Blackburn.
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MelakaRanger added 04:21 - Oct 3

You cannot deny we were bloody awful. Not one single player played well. This is the team - albeit with a couple of changes that should have beaten Newcastle and The Villa. This performance was worse than the Bolton game. To a man everyone had a nightmare.
But lets not throw the baby out with the bathwater. Maybe its what we needed as a reality check, especially as many people have recently been talking of a top ten finish. No way Jose! We will still do well to be 5th from bottom and that is all I am expecting.

Our attack force was non existant - as it has been most every game. Once we get to the 18yd line we have no idea what to do. We need more replacements come January and by the summer, assuming we survive, it should be bye bye to most every player from last year. They did us proud then but the truth is that most of them will never ever be of Premiership standard.
Bothroyd was as usual, useless ! The past few matches he seems to lumber about like a guy who is 5 stone overweight and has just had a big Sunday lunch. He is not the man we need in attack. What a difference the Fulham attacking players were! Time now to sideline him and play DJ & Mackie.

Now is not the time to panic. Now is the time to learn and correct. The next 4 games must bring at least 7 points and no more 'thrashings' like yesterday. Otherwise it just might be the time to panic!

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themodfather added 17:54 - Oct 3

from kick off it all went wrong!
stats show we had nearly as many shots on/off target and corners but what matters is GOALS,we had none, they had 6 and it could've been more....with rivals in mind, this is the worst result in the club's history!
i felt fulham were fitter,faster,stronger and wanted it more...
no ref to blame here...cheerio fitz and bothroyd.
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onedalefan added 23:00 - Oct 4

Apart from actually winning, was that a practise match? Just seemed to prove that we have no squad depth and even when not playing at what seemed half speed, we can't do the basics in defence when needed.
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geraldo added 17:50 - Oct 15

Don't understand what SE has against JK - to play Barnes-Homer was inexplicable, he was a passenger for the whole time he was on the pitch.
Today showed just what a thin squad we have- this should have been 3 points even against 11 men, The Chairman needs to get his cheque book out or we will continue to struggle
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newgolddream added 19:12 - Oct 15

Paddy Kenny, Man of The Match against Blackburn. Sez it all.
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SaintNick50 added 21:06 - Oct 15

If you ignore the goal (which you can't) this was a pretty good performace. After Derby's goal Saints had almost total possession and I don't think Derby had a onother shot on goal in the first half. Chaplow an able substitute for the injured Lallana. Man of the match was Rickie apart from the goal his strength and control up front was brillliant. A special mention for Kelvin, his distribution this game was superb and he was even successful with some crosses. And the goal another defensive error?!
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hoops58 added 22:13 - Oct 15

Wrong selection + wrong formation + wrong tactics = wrong result, officials made it worse with their decisions.
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Yorkshire_Dale added 23:26 - Oct 15

We were very poor today,and very very very lucky to get anything from a match against a mediocre team......the FG's gave us some space today!


Please, please Stevo, send Homer back "darn sarf" as soon as possible,we are a piss poor club and cannot afford to pay players for doing sweet fa!


Needs doing and you know it!
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RBLOCKPAT added 00:11 - Oct 16

I agree hoops 58 when are we going to shrug off this championship mentality, it just won't wash, we looked a league or two below in quality today and seemed to be devoid of any composure or confidence and it was more dissapointing to me than the performance against Fulham. Derry and Faurlin keep getting caught out running for a tackle facing their own goal and losing out, Barton sits too deep and looks like he stiil wishes he was at Newcastle, he has hardly been an inspiration on the pitch so far and I wont even say what I think of our central defenders. I am just watching the game between Norwich and Swansea and the approach to the game from Norwich playing wide men and always have bodies in the box, 44 bloody 2 when are we going to give it a try for more than ten minutes, we have the players, Mackie and Bothroyd in front of Taraabt (who was pathetic when he came on) or Smith Faurlin Barton and SWP, come on we have got to start testing keepers, Robinson who was clearly carrying a strain, had bugger all to do and that just isnt good enough at home. Just seen the end of MOD and our game was a complete afterthought, how embarrassing. Next Sunday OMG, I think I will go to church in the morning.
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MelakaRanger added 00:38 - Oct 16

Blackburn were so awful and QPR matched them on every front. Had we played Fulham again this week we would have lost 6 nil again. On this performance the coming few weeks will bring some more high scoring losses.

Barton was worthless - he has yet to show any leadership. Adel was useless. Derry was poor. The tactics were all wrong too. There are no excuses any more.

Our set pieces - well we dont have any set pieces - were of schoolboy standard. And our passing game was more often a few passes and then hoofing the ball upfield and losing posession.

Mackies return was the one good point from the game.

I agree we are still playing with a Championship mentality and unless we improve dramatically thats where we will be next year. Warnock seems to have lost the plot. Maybe he is a great Championship manager but he is proving to be an awful Premiership manager.

The January transfer window will have to bring in quite a few new players and unless things improve fast I suspect that it will be a new manager making the signing.

On todays performance by both manager and players , we are in trouble.





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geraldo added 01:12 - Oct 16

SE needs to get a grip on what management is about - it's not about playing your mates ( Tutte and Benali) it's about playing your best players and today it was crying out for JK or BBM. When you are playing 10 men you need players who can hold the ball and pass it.
I am still not convinced about SE ( and looking at his scores on this forum I am not alone) - he still seems tactically naive.......
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Fan123 added 01:15 - Oct 16

I didn't watch game... nervous wreck. Simply said.

Mackie is back. That is good news.

Support DJ Campbell recovery, everyone's please.
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MelakaRanger added 02:42 - Oct 16

One more thought

Where the hell has that team (spirit/tactics/desire) that played for us against Newcastle gone? It would have beaten Fulham and Blackburn!

Also I just saw Warnock on Sky Sports and when asked about the lack of home wins, especially with our upcoming home fixtures, his reply was that with the upcoming games it might be a good few matches yet before we win at home. Not what I want our manager to be saying...............
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AshteadR added 12:54 - Oct 16

Not good enough. Short of confidence and too many long hopeful balls. Not adventurous enough at home - don't get enough players in the box. Although that could be because we're holding back trying to cover for One Size - truly shocking!
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LostBoys added 13:38 - Oct 16

enjoyable game - played them off the park as conceded by the Derby fans in the pub after the game. I thought Guly was the problem first half - involved in everything but his final pass shocking. Good weekend away
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SomersetHoops added 13:42 - Oct 16

We should have been able to expect our first home win from this game; instead we had a disappointing performance and a result that is not good enough. The stats for passes completed must be horrendous and we generated nothing from the middle. Our players seemed to just want to hoof the ball as soon as they got it without looking up and waiting for the receiving player to get into position. While this may be acceptable for defenders under pressure it not good enough from our centre midfield.

The hoofing of long balls forward from deep midfield when there are no opponents threatening the player on the ball is the wrong choice and Barton was guilty of this most of the game. His pasing conversion rate must have been very poor and I feel unless he can improve his creativity he is the wrong player in this position. I would have replaced him with Buzsaky at half time and brought on Taarabt at the same time. The only player we had prepared to carry the ball prior to the too late changes were SWP and Mackie and they were heavily attended by opponents and left with few options except HH who had a fairly good game. Even Derry gave the ball away too often in this game and He and Faurlin's interpassing accross the pitch does not lead to anything unless they can make an eventual pass to someone with creative ability. Faurlin played quite well, Derry was under par. HH had a good game and Paddy saved us a couple of times and Luke Young looked good. Warnock seems to blame Fitz Hall for the goal, but he is playing with an injury so he can't take all the blame. If we still had Gorkss and if Perone was good enough to play perhaps our defence would be stronger. I'm beginning to wonder if our team and manager are up to the job of keeping us up and fear we should check if our scoreboard can handle double digit opponents scores next Sunday unless both tactics and performance improve.
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jdalec added 15:55 - Oct 16

Worst performance of season (at home anyway) Agree that the sooner someone gives Homer Simpson a list of train times back to Luton the better (Total waste of space) Should have commanded game once they went down to 10 men. Only one real shot on goal in 2nd half and that was jonah's goal (not sure who his post goal rant was aimed at?) It will be interesting to see the outcome of next Saturdays fixture when the team with the lowest goal tally entertain the team with arguably the leagues most dodgy defence!!!
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derbyhoop added 19:52 - Oct 16

No really poor performances. Just far too many average or below average ones.
My one positive from yesterday is that I'm certain we'll finish above Blackburn. We can play a lot better, I don't think they can play better than they did yesterday.
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onedalefan added 20:25 - Oct 16

It was the first time I have just been totally fed up at a home game. We didn't play as a team and certainly didn't appear to want to play for the manager. Tutte is not a player who can take hold of midfield like JK or BBM which what was needed after the sending off. We miss Widdowson more than I expected and need some-one who can command the back, now realise how good Dawson was in leading Holness last year. I agree that B-H should be shown the door and if SE is to stay, he needs to be banging on the chairmans door to be able to bring in a better class of player (who doesn't have to have City connections!!).
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LostBoys added 09:18 - Oct 19

Great stuff - should have had more goals and buried them but top of the league by 5 points. Bring on Reading
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mheaney added 20:51 - Oct 22

Hi. How on earth can one expect to win when Derby dont have a striker!!!!!!!! A cheap owner who wont even spend a few pennies on a striker,seems to be the problem!
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geraldo added 21:14 - Oct 22

yet another fiasco with SE in charge - we concede 3 to the bottom of the league!!

We start with 3 strikers and again no place for JK or BBM - when will he learn ( never is my thought so he must go, and soon)
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geraldo added 21:14 - Oct 22

yet another fiasco with SE in charge - we concede 3 to the bottom of the league!!

We start with 3 strikers and again no place for JK or BBM - when will he learn ( never is my thought so he must go, and soon)
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LostBoys added 16:26 - Oct 23

Very poor performance with some individual shockers but in the end we could have pinched it with enough chances.
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NorwayRanger16 added 19:30 - Oct 23

Couldn't wish for a better win! This beats beating the scum 3-0 11 v 11 LOL

Anton Ferdinand with maybe THE best centre half performance by a QPR centre back, a 10'er today.

Glad to finally get that monkey off our back (home win)!

YOU R's!
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MelakaRanger added 01:50 - Oct 24

I guess you could knock 99% of us down with a feather.

Luckily we only played the 9 man Chelsea team for 45 mins as if it had been 90 mins we would have lost for sure

BUT we beat them. Fair and square. They thought we would be a push over and played accordingly. We wern't. It was a pleasure to watch Chelsea get frustrated and earn all their yellows.

But how the hell do we beat Chelsea and fail to beat the likes of Blackburn? Oh yes this is QPR:)

9 games - 12 points.
36 games - 48 points? If so we survive!
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AshteadR added 09:32 - Oct 24

Typical Rangers - expect the unexpected! Superb win, but talk about do it the hard way in the 2nd half - nerves, what nerves!!
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SheffieldSteve added 10:33 - Oct 24

Agree, NorwayRanger, Ferdinand is becoming a legend already!
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dixiedean added 11:07 - Oct 24

their first defeat against a newly promoted side in 64 games apparently. That's why the likes of Terry & Cole were shown up as the graceless gutter rats that they are.NW has copped a lot of flak lately for " not being a prem manager" but the tactics were spot on regardless of the red cards.The only negative was Adle showing yet again that he doesn't give a stuff about the team, only about himself. Time to sell in Jan window me thinks.
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HamptonR added 11:35 - Oct 24

An amazing game, an incredible result and a very valuable three points.

The work rate was awesome and the tatics good.
My nerves were shredded and my throat is ripped to bits.

BTW the ref wasn't our twelfth man, the crowd was!!!
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newgolddream added 11:59 - Oct 24

Fantastic win 4 the R's. Great 2 c Clint Hill back from his loan spell. Three huge points and a first win in West London since April. This game emphasised what spoiled overpaid brats Terry, Cole, Lampard and Drogba really are. John Terry tried to referee the match all by himself. Mind u no tears this time unlike when he missed that penalty in Moscow. Big games ahead for QPR but as I said b4 the bigger the better.
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Harbour added 12:16 - Oct 24

Great team performance. We deserved victories against Newcastle and Aston Villa and did not get them yesterday we got the result we deserved. They thought just turning up would win the game but the boys fought for victory and got it. Talk about bad losers I thought the abuse they gave the ref was a disgrace.

We must fight like this in all Home Games and we will be OK

Urs
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jobley added 12:49 - Oct 24

So what do we think about Adel - I am begining to wonder if we would get anywhere near the 12mil offered by PSG and also if he is even worth 6 mil? I mean the boy has quality but he is being found out now in the prem and he is not causing opposition huge problems. Ok, great ball to put SWP through on Sunday and a few other good passes, otherwise very average. Also, this mentality of his, what coach wants that? What team mate wants that? I was pleased Heidar and co put him in his place on Sunday. I just can't understand why he can't see the wrong in his actions and tantrums - i'd personally be embarrassed. Passion is one thing but selfishness is another.

Moan aside, great three points. Ok, we would have probably lost 11 vs 11 Chelesea let themselves down badly. We show grit, determination and adaptability.

Roll on Spurs....
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HollowayRanger added 12:52 - Oct 24

loved the way we stood up to them derry v fatboy,smith v terry our boys didnt bottle it ,sure they only had 9 men but we were STILL winning when 11 v 11

credit all the defenders but anton the motm
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SomersetHoops added 12:56 - Oct 24

I delayed my French trip for this game and expected a poor result. So a victory against Chelsea was even more sweet than usual. I was impressed with our team in the first half and how we took it to Chelsea drawing fouls and eventually a penalty. It was clear that Chelsea were just trying to stifle the game with some tackling and tactics which did them no credit.

From the position we were in I was disappointed with the way the team were sent out for the second half and how they performed after the break. We vwere too reliant on Paddy keeping us on top than we should have been against 9 men. I don't remember us winning any corners and our shots on or off goal tally against the depleted opposition and our possession was not good enough.

We were lucky not to have had this game reduced to a draw. In my opinion we should have used thge situation to get Bothroyd in the goals or has Warnock got a downer on him now as he seems to have with Buzsaky. From what I saw second half Warnock was very lucky we didn't concede.
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Doughnut added 16:03 - Oct 24

Never a dull moment with the R's! Very ,very important 3 points where none was expected. Congratulations well in order. The second half though is not to be repeated.
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geraldo added 16:37 - Oct 26

the first half was the worst I can remember since the grim days of Steve Parkin.
Good to see a proper keeper who commands his box - can't see Keane getting back in...........
SE must realise that he needs JK to protect the back line.
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suttonsaint added 17:59 - Oct 26

I thought Martin was commanding all night,they were very wary of Cork's ability and backed off him all night so although i'm a fan of his i thought he could have done a little more.Lots of industry early on but no end product for most of the evening.Forte was static,cumbersome and looked every inch a league 1 plodder who lead the line with all the enthusiasm of a teenager on a family holiday.Our support was exceptional again and there was an almost lighthearted feeling amongst the away throng which made for,apart from the result,a thoroughly enjoyable evening.(and it only took me 40 minutes to get back to leafy Sutton).
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jdalec added 20:04 - Oct 26

Agree with geraldo that Lucas is far more vocal and has a presence that JK does not. Terrible performance again, this score was a let off as far as I'm concerned. We looking over our shoulder now, dark days ahead??
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Phil26 added 22:56 - Oct 26

I wasn't there, but can see it minute by minute, in my mind, in detail!!! Frustration abound.... And... I hear the calls of get behind the team, support and shut up, that's what we're here for.... Why oh why why don't the players support us for a change? Go somewhere please
and practice the basics of your profession and have some pride, not necessarily in yourselves, but for the hundreds of supporters who do have pride!
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geraldo added 00:48 - Oct 27

Well said phil - we lacked the basics like passing to a blue shirt.
What SE seems to forget is that these players are getting paid a decent wage ( more than the average supporter) and they ought to be able to perform the basics of their job
Don't think that SE will be here post Xmas......................
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Elad6 added 11:03 - Oct 27

Chesterfield should have won by 4. Lucas was fortunate (and played well) that poor finishing meant he only conceeded one via a deflection.

Nobody would then be talking about boxes being commanded and presence - Lucas would have been unfairly criticised, just as Kean has been. As it was, Lucas did ok, just as Kean has done, just as Edwards did. Our keepers have been fine.

On the other hand our defenders have been poor all season and our general defending embarrassing, gifting goals that no keeper would stand a chance with.

Actually, same as our home 'support'. Poor and embarrassing all season.
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Phil26 added 14:01 - Oct 27

It's an age old problem Elad. Start the season poor, at some stage they'll put a run together, then a crowd of 3,500 will turn up and then the players in front of the 'new' support will put in a shambles of a performance, back to square one, sadly it's always been thus! I
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jdalec added 18:31 - Oct 29

Anyone believing SE can keep us in this league is now deluding themselves. We are going down faster than the Titanic. Time to make way Steve.
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LostBoys added 19:47 - Oct 29

Very very good and a thoroughly enjoyable afternoon. Excellent football and as good as last Saturday was awful.
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geraldo added 20:14 - Oct 29

I have never wanted SE from day 1 - but what a pity that we have wasted 3 months to prove what a complete waste of time he has been.
This week saw us play 3 teams below us and what happened - one point ( very lucky) out of nine.
Today we played better than Tues but we still conceded our average 2 goals per game and will soon be bottom.
One bright note Jordan looked a class act - why didn't he start???
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ashes added 21:08 - Oct 29

Eyre says that Jordan was good and will start in future! Why has he constantly persisted with the same poor defence especially Trotman? He said that that Lucas was ill and acknowledged Kean hasn't taken his chances. Surely lucas has to be the number one choice from now on. Completely puzzled why he took Darby off, he at least looked good on the wing.
Too early for Eyre to go yet, I just want him to learn and to get the players playing with some fight.
Why have they banned bringing chips in? Do they think that we wiil throw them at the opposing fans? The way we are playing I think that the opposition would be the last place that they would go!
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onedalefan added 22:24 - Oct 29

Sad to see the optimism of the last few years slipping away. Does SE just pick names at random and hope they can work out what to do because he still doesn't seem to know the team he wants. Pity about Lucas's illness as Kean has shown he can't command his area and it's needed when the defence can't do the basics. Tutte is too lightweight for a battle in midfield. Have said it before, we need a genuine target man up because a long ball in the air to 2 small forwards doesn't work. The only pluses, Jordan immediately seemed to have a confidence about him and Jonah still has the drive after 500 games that others could try and copy.
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Yorkshire_Dale added 23:35 - Oct 29

Another shambolic display against poor opposition.....Stevvo said we would be unbeaten in October....eh? (He also said Aldershot were crap in the Carling Cup).......times up surely???

Many fans said last Saturday that we should wait till tonight and then review how we stood,.......here we are 2 appalling performances later and we are well worse off,7 days later.

Clueless.....and a team of clowns with no team spirit.

Do the honourable thing and go now Stevvo!
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winchesterbob added 01:10 - Oct 30

Agree with Lostboys, a splendid football, and I thought Mr Chaplow, in particular, was a very fine exponent of the game. The rest of the Saints team were pretty bleedin’ good as well!
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winchesterbob added 01:12 - Oct 30

*a splended game of football* even!
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simmo400 added 03:30 - Oct 30

Saints played them off the park. Chplow excellent. Nuff said
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jdalec added 08:47 - Oct 30

Think we all seem to agree, the general consensus that Eyre's days are numbered? Agree with most of the comments - Keane is no way our first choice keeper (Lucas is), Jordan looks class lets use his ability, Why was Darby brought off? the only decent player Eyre has brought in???
We can't dilly and dally any longer, we aren't looking over our shoulder any more we are well and truly in the shit with teams like MK Dons and Preston on the horizon.
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MelakaRanger added 02:34 - Oct 31

First half we were headless chickens. Second half much better but Spurs were so much quicker, fitter than us and their passing was vastly superior to us.

Paddy in goal saved us from another 6 goal defeat.

Bothroyd scored but he still looks so lumbering and awkward. Mackie never stopped hassling and was full of energy.

Adel just proved agian he is either A) not good enough against premiership opposition or B) doesnt want to play for QPR . Either way we were a better team without him. Maybe we should play 3 up front next week without Adel again?

Worrying times ahead as another defeat stares us in the face next weekend. So we need to win at least 2 of the following 3 games - ideally draw at Stoke and beat Norwich and WBA - or we will be perilously close to the bottom.
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Kylegraham added 02:56 - Oct 31

A performance which was good both defensively and offensively with one exception, a glaring error by Darren O'Dea allowing the visitors their one real chance in the game. Darren O'Dea claims it was dizziness but this downright foolish error is something that can be expected of such a poor defender. With the exception of O'Brien, all of Leed's other centre backs are more capable than O'Dea.
Everything good seemed to come through the ever creative Adam Clayton and our midfield was good throughout. McCormack was unfortunate today but worked his socks off which is all you can ask. Snodgrass was caught offside one too many times but had a decent game. Rachubka just does not look confident or reassured at all and the sooner Lonergan returns the better.
Becchio looked short of match fitness when he came on for the also decent Keogh. Sam added something a bit more direct when he came on for Pugh late on and his crossing looked consistently threatening. We miss have Nunez to come off the bench in this kind of game though.
Two players that I was impressed by today were Tom Lees and Paul Connolly. I felt that Connolly did an excellent job getting forward and making the overlapping run behind Snodgrass and was solid defensively also. His crossing proved a real threat. Tom Lees was as dominant aerially as you'll see and if we get him a good partner our defensive issues will be behind us.
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headhoops added 08:43 - Oct 31

A game of two halves. Warnocks tactical changes at half time made for a far more balanced second half, Taarabt was awful, he looked unfit, overawed by the opposition and couldnt make a basic 5 yard pass. Derry had one of his less effective days as spuds passing through midfiled was slick and quick.

Kenny was excellent as we have come to expect and Young had a decent game - for me I thought Heidar was exceptional first half - he won virtually everything in the air, just a pity that no one was close enough to pick up his touches when they did second half Bothroyd scored.

If we play like we did second half no problems, easier 3 teams worse than us, like the first half we will be well and truly in the mix to drop.

Not many people will go to spuds and get a result,apart from Man City.....D'oh!

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RBlock added 09:22 - Oct 31

I disagree Melaka, i though Bothroyd was great and made a lot of difference. His movement is better than Heidar's, and yes Heidar won nearly every ball in the 1st half but he flicked on, and we weren't playing that type of football. When Jay came on and was able to hold the ball up as opposed to knocking it on, we improved vastly.
I think spurs play some of the best football you will see in the league when they are knocking it around like that, but im impressed with the character we showed in the 2nd half.
I dont think Anton put a foot wrong all game. Mackies energy was fantastic and when it comes to Adel, the more we can get in January the better... When one player brings down the performance of the whole team you cant play him. He needs the freedom to run at people and to shoot like he was last season. He is passing to often and when he does its lacking, he has linked up with SWP and Joey superbly at times but on the whole its really disappointing.
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14bowlers added 09:24 - Oct 31

I thought from day one that bringing a manager out of academy football into the hard league of div. one was dodgy to say the least, but was prepared to back the boards decision and give it a go.I have watched Rochdale now for 55 years, and I must admit that the last few matches have been as bad as I have seen for a long time. I am sorry to say that now is the time to arrest this situation quickly, please do not let all the hard work of the past few years go to waste . We have to get an experianced manager in place , before we get into deeper shit . We cannot be playing in div 2 next year, fearing we shall lose more supporters than we have allready.
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R_in_Sweden added 10:04 - Oct 31

I have to agree with RBlock on Bothroyd, I thought that he did well when coming on, can't see the "lumbering" myself I thought that we'd shipped that out to Millwall's sub's bench.

I still think that Taarabt has too much talent to write off just yet, let's see what happens if/when he scores a goal to boost his confidence a bit. It wouldn't surprise me if his head's been filled with all sorts of crap from agents who want their cut, "friends" or whoever. His brain must be like scrambled eggs at the moment.
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themodfather added 14:25 - Oct 31

as warnock said, we probably showed them too much respect 1st half..and bale is a top player on top form...
2nd half we really had a go and got back to 2-1 and most thought, "maybe" but their 3rd was quality and killed us off.
no fulham collapse and i felt we did ok.
spurs are a good team, whether it hurts to admit or not...given space and time, awesome. hope we get into man city OR ELSE!
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LostBoys added 09:25 - Nov 2

3 points is 3 points but there were some terrbible performances particularly the full backs
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HollowayRanger added 21:24 - Nov 5

cracking game we so deserved a draw ,but in end their class told we made a few mistakes and got punished their finishing was leathal while we missed a few ,biggest difference in the teams was the benches they had a 2nd team of stars on the bench we only had punchen smith as attacking options
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NorthfieldsR added 22:29 - Nov 5

Time for the impatient short termers to get off Bothroyd's back methinks. Cracking team performance against a team that didn't bottle and look like champions elect. All turned up today...great stuff despite missing out on a a worthy draw.
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sexton added 22:43 - Nov 5

Fantastic game. I kept expecting City to come out and shred us but they never did. Faurlin was fantastic.
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MelakaRanger added 23:06 - Nov 5

Best team performance of the year. Amazing stuff. Finally NW had the formation and tactics that will take us on and upwards. Lets hope we play like this over the coming games against 'lesser' teams. If we do then 7 points form the next 3 games should be very achievable.
I am very proud of the lads, well done everyone!
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walshy15a added 00:35 - Nov 6

We`re getting there, proud as !!!!
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themodfather added 13:15 - Nov 6

faurlin had one of his best games ever for qpr.
so many good performances, one bad pass from traore and we were punished but overall i feel qpr have learnt a lot about the prem lge in recent games and have found their level.
a very good team effort, good support and a feel good all round, despite a loss.
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SheffieldSteve added 14:38 - Nov 6

Very good team performance, pundits say Man cIty didn't play well, but that was a lot to do with the QPR team performance. Faurlin and HH had cracking matches, no-one really bad from the starting 11. Looking good!!
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AshteadR added 19:53 - Nov 6

Very unlucky not to get a point. A very balanced team selection. The top teams really punish any weaknesses though! Great game and great atmosphere nevertheless
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Harbour added 09:27 - Nov 7

Fantastic match draw would have been right result but we showed we are a PL team. Great to see the whole team playing for each other. felt sorry for traore he had a great game other than one pass. Went home happy dispite result.

Liked the match report was talking to loads of Man City fans after most coming up to me and saying best team they have played this year. Just got to reproduce this performance against the West Broms Stokes and Norwichs and we will be ok.
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jdalec added 20:11 - Nov 12

Bradford are a very poor side which only goes to show how poor we are! Dale dominated first half but no end product as has been the case all season. Second half the usual panic set in, the defence looked more and more unsettled and eventually, yes you've guessed it we invited a player into our half gave him loads of room and bang he lauched an awesome shot into the top corner (one of the goals of the first round I'm sure).
Time to make way Steve, it's not working and we really have lost all hope now.
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Yorkshire_Dale added 00:19 - Nov 13

...and so we have bowed out of a 2nd Cup run in a week and surrendered a great income stream to some low down League 2 outfit who could n't buy a win a few days ago themselves.......we really are the pits,thanks Stevvo!

Your position is truly unsustainable and for your own dignity please go now and not hold our piss poor club to ransome.

You know it's a poison chalice here.

I'm off to kick Razz's cat!

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geraldo added 00:54 - Nov 13

first half we played like Barca, second half like Staylebridge Celtic so what happened at half time....????
If you look at the ratings on here then most of the players did OK so why did we lose? Altho I don't think that today was SE's fault there is something very wrong at the club that can only be sorted out by a change in the management team.
What amazes me is that I have learnt that SE was given a 3 year contract ( why/) and we can't afford to get rid of him...............
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alex_roch39 added 23:10 - Nov 14

It looks like we really are in trouble. Eyre has caused irrepairable damage, so even if we sacked him, we'd still have to put up with the current squad untill january and by that time we'll be rock bottom with a slim chance of staying up.
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ATBeaumont added 17:28 - Nov 19

Great result and sone excellent football and goals, only one football team on the pitch, Gerrry should hang his head in shame. Very lucky with the pen, makes up for the one against Villa.

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LancsBushRs added 19:08 - Nov 19

back now... that was gooooood!
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NorwayRanger16 added 19:57 - Nov 19

NW got his tactics and team selection spot on. Drafting in Clint Hill to defend the set pieces better and moving Traore to left midfield which caused Wilkinson all sorts of problems with his pace. Every player stood up to be counted today, subs included, but have to give special credit to HH.
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MelakaRanger added 22:40 - Nov 19

Gritty performance against a gritty team. Helguson was supurb.

Again the team proved to far better without Taarrabt . He is not missed and will not be missed once sold in January

A repeat performance next week will bring another 3 points.

Brilliant!



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newgolddream added 23:51 - Nov 19

Great performance from the R's. Ironic that we would have taken Crouch back to W12 in the summer for a small fortune with HH on our own doorstep and looking surplus to requirements. The man is unmarkable on this form. Two winnable games on the horizon.
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pnc4eva1 added 08:35 - Nov 20

A solid display by Dale that involved battling and some good approach play. Bergkamp made Grimes look more mobile and interested. Bunn was a problem throughout the game. The defence looked more solid.

Jones missed a penalty and Mellor missed an open goal for Preston. The referee actually booked a Preston player for diving and was correct in his decision.
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LostBoys added 10:35 - Nov 20

As usual Poyet only set out to attack on the break and stifled us first half but there was only going to be one winner. The referee is just not worth discussing as you can recruit better in the parks locally. I want to single out the Richardson cross for the first goal - dummies to cross on his right switches to his left and then takes all the defenders out to reach Ricky at the far post - excellent.
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RBLOCKPAT added 11:42 - Nov 20

Fantastic result outfought Stoke bully boys and our new system works a treat when every player fights for each other. I stupidly thought that we might get some credit on MOD but the Three Stooges were having none of it not even a mention! Well its time for us to beat the team that cost us the Championship in '76 next week and we will. Come on u rrrrrs!
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AshteadR added 19:48 - Nov 20

Another great away day. Got a bit of luck with the penalty shouts, but still worth the win.

Good to see you in Mabels Tavern after the game Clive.
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newgolddream added 00:21 - Nov 21

Agree with u RBLOCKPAT bout Three Stooges on MOTD. Dreadful programme and rarely watch it. Invested in the QPR Player and really enjoyed the commentary match yesterday and now looking forward to the highlights. I'm watchin the promoted teams with interest and would love to beat Norwich next week. We should finish above the Canaries and Swansea with all 3 stayin up.
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SaintNick50 added 18:45 - Nov 26

For the first time this season we did not impose ourselves on the oposition. All credit to Bristol City they played really well and were in our faces all the time and gave us no space. We tried to play our passing game but many of the flicks and holding play just didn't come off. Chaplow suffered an injury in the first half and had to substituted by Schneiderlin. Both City goals I thought had an element of fortune but unsually we created few chances. Even the inclusion of Steeeeeve De Ridder (for Guly) and Barney (for Hammond) didn't do the trick. Is this just a blip? I will let you know at 9.00pm on Tuesday night!
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jdalec added 19:19 - Nov 26

Grimes is one lazy little git, came out of the same mould as Liam Dickinson and only at Dale for the same reason....the money! Get shut and lets get people who are interested in.
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philS32 added 20:17 - Nov 26

I never usually question Simons judgement but taking off both Ross and Luciano who are our recognised strikers when we are 2 1 down and we needed the best possible attacking chance to score was madness. Our home form is poor not any where good enough to get promoted and what the he'll is it with first half do our players only think they have t turn up for the second half ? When you put on that White shirt your heart should burst with pride boys I hate to say it but your letting the White shirt down
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geraldo added 01:24 - Nov 27

Thought we were unlucky today very poor decision on the penalty.
Cannot understand why SE persevered with Berghamp who did nothing and did not win anything in the air.
We have lots of forwards but nobody with a real goal instinct.
I am not a fan of SE and feel we are doomed unless something changes ................................
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LostBoys added 09:23 - Nov 27

crap
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onedalefan added 10:57 - Nov 27

Was Grimes on the pitch, never saw him? Bergkamp needs to be told that he can jump for a high ball, not just barge into the opposition and give away a free kick. Barry-Murphy doesn't have the pace to cover as a full back. Holness can't pass properly. The whole team appears to be lacking confidence and who does that stem from, the manager.
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newgolddream added 13:28 - Nov 27

QPR deserved better on the day. Our record in this fixture is poor and would love to beat the Canaries at the Bush next year. One win at home is not good enough and we need three points against West Brom on Saturday. Injuries not helping either.
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jobley added 15:12 - Nov 27

Where is Taarabt and who the feck does he think he is if he is fit and well enough to play? He obviously can't cut the mustard in the prem and as a result will play in the French league - well done Adel really pushing yourself there.
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antoknee64 added 15:25 - Nov 27

The poorest I've seen us 1st half,really looked like we missed Barton and Faurlin covering the whole pitch with Derry constantly giving the ball away.Never thought that a centre-mid player would be required in Jan but now I'm not sure,if we loose Faurlin we are doomed.Everything crossed that Bassong or Bamba sign in Jan as well as Defoe.
Great atmosphere yesterday out singing the home end.couldnt see us scoring twice and saw their 2nd commimg a mile off.can't believe Kenny out for a month.
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kirbys added 09:56 - Nov 28

Clearly this is a work in progress team and Dale fans know this. We were up against a workmanlike well organised side with few weaknesses and yet not an unbeatable side. On another day we would have beaten them by a safe margin on the first half display alone.
I still think progress is happening and we will pick up enough points to escape the drop.
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LostBoys added 10:15 - Nov 30

Unimpressive performance but a win is a win.
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patred added 17:14 - Dec 3

poor tactics...poor selection

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BasingstokeR added 21:53 - Dec 3

Barton you should have put that away mate! :(
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newgolddream added 22:46 - Dec 3

Disappointin result. Second would have clinched it. Well done Heidar. Will have to spend in January. Is anyone interested in Cup draw 2morrow? Would love to end our miserable record with a good draw and of course a win next month.
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NorwayRanger16 added 01:51 - Dec 4

Thoroughly disapointed with just a point, but thats the name of the game if you don't take your chances. WBA should never been in the game at that point, gutted.
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MelakaRanger added 02:56 - Dec 4

Brilliant game. On the attack from the off and Helguson is our on form man.

Unlucky to not win and win well but its the same old story. We are that close to being a really good mid table team but whats stoppinbg us is that we cant seem to convert our chances.

Still, we may get a point or two from the next two games, if only we convert our chances into some goals
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winchesterbob added 08:59 - Dec 4

It was more than a bit grim, Guly is an attacking midfielder, he doesn't lead the line well nor does he hold the ball well. Fox should spend the week practising corners as his delivery was woeful. Someone needs to get a grip of free kicks because without RL it was headless chicken time, and bringing on Holmes didn't work as it looked like he and Richardson were in a three legged race from the amount of time they spent tripping over each other. There is always going to be a disaster match I hope we have got it out of the way now and get back to winning away as well as at home but if RL is going to be out for a while NA has some work to do.
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MickB added 09:56 - Dec 4

Am I alone in thinking that Barton's contribution so far has been massively overrated? He isn't creating much, isn't bossing the midfield and has given away several freekicks in nasty positions on the edge of the area. Yet one newspaper referred to his performance yesterday as 'inspirational'. It looked pedestrian to me with Faurlin once again a more energetic and effective performer. Both could do with a extra bit of acceleration.
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LostBoys added 10:06 - Dec 4

For the first time this season I was not at an away game and could not listen on the radio as I was at a function. Reading the reports we were dreadful again. Even if the they play well you cannot keep loing to bottom 3 sides and hope to win the league. West Ham losing is no consolation.
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birminghamsaint added 14:10 - Dec 4

Agree with Winchesterbob. Guly and Fox were poor today and Richardson was anonymous. Saints controlled the game but there was no penetration and we did not look like scoring. Schneiderlin seemed to be playing further forward than usual , and I just coulden't understand why, when we had Barnard on the bench. De Ridder seems to be gaining in fitness but we weren't playing to his strengths either. This game reminded me of Walsall away last year, when the opposition again had only 1 decent chance and scored from it. We definately need a plan B for when Rickie Lambert is not available.
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LostBoys added 12:39 - Dec 5

I could not go and could not listen on the radio due to a function on saturday but reading the reports of how dire we were all players seem to be overmarked.
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LostBoys added 12:42 - Dec 5

I meant to add after this performance and Hammond's was the worst it appears he is quoted in the Echo as saying he is not worried about our away form He may not be but I know quite a few thousand who are. i could not attend Donny or Coventry but did Derby and Reading and it seems things are getting worse. His form seems to be the most suspect at the moment followed by Guly.
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BasingstokeR added 21:17 - Dec 10

We basically need to learn how to retain the ball more consistently, we can do it but every few games have one like today where the ball looks like a wet bar of soap. Even though HH wasn't in the squad today; I would've stayed at 442, the 5man midfield is something we played for Adel - if he's not playing I don't think we should carry on playing it.
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MelakaRanger added 23:01 - Dec 10

To lose only 1 - nil is a far better result than I expected. But our few dead balls - corners/free kicks were their usual ineffective rubbish. We must improve here and fast.

Good to see DJ back.

Now lets surprise everyone and beat Man U next Saturday.

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geraldo added 23:20 - Dec 10

Looking at the stats we were absolutely hammered so where do we go from here?
We have conceded 40 goals in 20 games so we start every match 2 nil down so how can we expect to win?
The more I hear about how little SE had to do with the real City academy the more I think that he sold our Chairman a dummy at his interview.
I can see us losing to Yeovil next Sat and then he must surely go......
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hoops58 added 21:12 - Dec 11

Poor upfront without Helguson, Bothroyd unable to hold up play, wins very few in the air and didn't look interested when he lost the ball!
DJ looked fresh, hopefully him and Heider together on Sunday.
Agree with BasingstokeR 5 man midfield just did not work, looked like they weren't sure who was picking up who.
Would have been more than 1-0 if not for Cerny.
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off2div1 added 14:08 - Dec 12

Why does everyone give Nicky Adams good marks week in week out he had a shocker cant cross or keep the ball play Tutte or some one else.
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geraldo added 01:44 - Dec 18

I thought we did ok today except we did not score and if you look at the stats with 68% possession then you wonder why we did not score!!
Unfortunately a lot of our play was at the back and we have to stop passing back to the likes of Holness who dont have a clue what to do with the ball...
The truth is unless something changes dramatically we are going down- I almost wished we had lost then SE would surely have been sacked
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MelakaRanger added 00:12 - Dec 19

Just awful.

The defence was over whelmed and the attack (as usual) made chances and (as usual) couldnt take a single one of them. That is unforgivable at this level.

SWP is a winger who needs the ball out on the wing and to run with it. Every ball he got he immediately knocked it back to another player. Either play him as a winger and to his strengths or dont play him at all. He was like a headless chicken for the first 30 mins
Barton needs the riot act read to him. He was awful and so far isnt the player he thinks he is! And what was that free kick right on the edge of the penalty area that he casually knocked to a Man U player. That summed up his contribution!
Bothroyd has never impressed me and again was far too casual and shows that he is not Premiership quality.

Dead balls and set pieces are another major weak spot for QPR. Every one was wasted. We have not improved in this area at all since day 1 of the season.

At least Adel played a bit like his old self.

Warnocks tactics once again were lacking. As I have said before, he is a great Championship manager but a very poor Premiership manager

We really must get 6 points from the next two games or else we are in big trouble.

If we survive the season then the summer must bring big changes - players and management.
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NorthfieldsR added 00:44 - Dec 19

Now looks like the 8 days pre transfer deadline was not enough time for NW and TF to rectify the abysmal situation left by the permatanned tosser. We're starting to limp towards January and the need to buy genuine Prem players. God knows where we will be in the table when the door opens.

The home support was poor. Perhaps playing at 12 noon and not being tanked up prior played a part. Certainly no supportive atmosphere and no animosity a la Chelsea to put off the mollycoddled celebrities.For God's sake it's less than two years since Paul Hart played keep ball with four full backs to hold on for a miserable win. People have such short memories.

All players to my mind put their best effort in but were simply outclassed. Shrek played a blinder bar one or two stray passes much as I'm loathe to say it.

J Barton was the exception. He was abysmal. He should stop listening to the w--ky band he likes and listen to something more motivating! What was unforgiveable was the lack of ball received by AT who was looking sharp. Barton as captain might not like AT, but he should at least make sure he gets the ball when he's on song. he looked the only route to any possible comeback.

In Warnock we should still trust...and without the cameras on Wednesday night perhaps AT might finally step up to the Premiership plate . He has nothing to fear of the professional example set him by Barton in this game.
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MelakaRanger added 04:10 - Dec 19

I really think Warnock is the best manager we have had since Gordon Jago and Dave Sexton. He has done wonders for the team. But I also think he is like Derry.

Both were instrumental and key to us gaining promotion but both are not quite good enough to cut the mustard, now we are there.

For QPR to survive and improve within the Premiership then we will need a proven Premiership standard manager for 2012/13 onwards, just like we will need some proven Premiership players and not has beens like Dyer or wannabes like Bothroyd.
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AshteadR added 10:11 - Dec 19

We were always going to be 2nd best in this game, but what really frustrated was the way we contributed to our own downfall. We gave the ball away far too cheaply (Barton particularly) and once again, didnt take our chances. Cerny kept the score respectable.
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NorwayRanger16 added 13:45 - Dec 19

That early goal didn't help...! But have to say Rooney' the best player we have been up against, better than both Silva and Suarez that both where brilliant. His hold up play, movement and vision was something to behold. The gulf in class from what we've been used to for years is there for everyone to see. That said, this is not the games we should be looking to win, and a lot of what i've seen from Bolton, Wolves, B'burn etc. says that we're in with a good chance of staying up.

On to the players then. Both Barton and Faurlin we're miles away from being competetive enough. Faurlin' poorest performance since the promotion, so many missed passes he should hold his head in shame. He had several like Bartons pass for Carricks goal, only luck that none led to a goal against. And while we're on Carricks goal, how on earth can we let him run a good 60 yards unchallenged??? and let's not get started on Cerny contribution on the goal, should have been a easy save (that apart Cerny had another blinder).

Watching Boothroyd play is massively underwhelming, can not for the love of god see what he brings to the team that neither DJ or Taarabt can do.

Credit should go to Mackie who tormented Evra for 45 mins and Connolly who played well in the circumstances.
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LostBoys added 17:34 - Dec 19

Another below par performance against a very mediocre Pompey
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newgolddream added 23:23 - Dec 21

Disappointing result after a spirited second half performance. Need to be winning games against the Sunderlands of this division and certainly not losing at home (again). One win in 12 matches since our Sky win over Sheffield Utd and that was playing with two extra men. Some poor decisions on the line tonight and am wonderin is NW up to the task of the Premier League. Would love to see him succeed after prevoius failures but will have to deliver sooner rather than later. The transfer window can't come soon enough for our struggling Hoops.
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MelakaRanger added 00:44 - Dec 22

Having just watched the game on TV I am sorry to say that the team is just not the same as it was 2 months ago. Despite the comeback to 2-2, the spirit, the belief we can win, its just not there anymore.

Warnock can no longer use the excuses of the past 3 months - new players, unlucky, silly mistakes etc.

The sad truth is that he is out of his depth in the Premiership. The limit to his abilities is the Championship - where he is very good indeed. The Premiership exceeds his capabilities.

The transfer window could bring another set of Warnock hopefuls who just dont perform. Like Bothroyd, Puncheon, Dyer, Wright Phillips and even Barton is not performing anywhere near the expected levels. The only two decent signings were Young and Ferdinand. We dont need more duff signings that we will be saddled with for 2 or 3 years.

Tony F has some difficult decisons to make over the coming days. If the next 3 games do not bring at least 5 points, then this should bring a close to the tenure of NW. A couple more losses and we will be is big big trouble!



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NorwayRanger16 added 00:48 - Dec 22

If Taarabt starts on the bench next game then thats a sackable offense!
He should have started tonight as well after his positive cameo against Man Utd. Great to see him back to his best, if he stays and keep on playing like this then he'll be our best "signing" this january.
Great and well deserved goal for Mackie but overall, like SWP it's just to much hit and miss for my liking.
Great comeback but overall S'land deserved their win.
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Nov77 added 01:07 - Dec 22

It's actually one win in thirteen, if you count the home league cup loss this season.
Couldn't believe the team when I heard it, smacked of cowardice.
Other than HH the two players most likely to grab us a goal are Adel and DJ so why are they sitting on the bench?
Handed the initiative to Sunderland.
Warnock picked a team not to lose rather than a team to win.
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MelakaRanger added 01:47 - Dec 22

Yes Nov 77. Warnock is losing the plot, in fact he might have lost it!

Once again he has used the excuse of the other team getting 'out of prison'.

His Gaffer report on the QPR web site really sounds like a man with no ideas. He has only himself to blame. He seems to think the transfer window will cure all our ills. It might help to strengthen the squad a little but is he able to coach and motivate the team better than he has done over the past 10 games? I think not.

Tony F is asking us to 'keep the faith'. I AM TRYING! But even the faithful must question their leaders when they are not performing as leaders should.

Trouble is, if NW goes, who the heck is good enough and available to step in?

Big changes needed in attitude, tactics, team spirit & players performance. Changes that must take place before the next match

No boos please, just cheers for the next 3 games. The team needs our support.

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Doughnut added 08:45 - Dec 22

Very, very disappointing result. I fully understand the need to not hype up matches but this, along with the Bolton, Wigan, Newcastle and West Brom matches, was one we needed and could have got 3 points from. Yet again...what a waste!
Prime objective must be to stop the opposition scoring, so we must strengthen the defence, which was weak at the start of the season and is still weak now.
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AshteadR added 09:59 - Dec 22

So, so, disappointing. We set up with a formation not to lose, but were carved open far too easily. We look slow defensively and devoid of attacking ideas - apart from HH. We really need to be more positive at home and go for the win. We looked much better with Barton out of the middle when Taarbs came on.

And then, after all the hard work to get ourselves back in the game, we seemed to sit back and invite them on. You can't defend from corners (although there's were much better than ours) like we did and expect to win! Poor performance and pi55 poor result at home - again!
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hoops58 added 21:29 - Dec 22

Not which was worse, NW team selection and tactics (again) or substitute Ref Attwells decisions!
Games we should win, we play poor and lose, games we expect to lose we play well and mostly lose!
Defense all over the place, opposition getting free headers again and again.
Midfield slow going forward, never pushing up or closing down.
Wide men, well Traore best crosser of the ball.
Forward (yes only one!) can only do so much on his own.
Can't see January transfers making much difference with NW talking of 3 or 4 loan signings.
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LostBoys added 18:08 - Dec 26

Good performance even if we did not hit our best form.
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JTLUFC added 19:37 - Dec 27

This report and the anti Leeds nonense is both one-sided and absolute nonsense. 'Normal service resumed' ? You need to read up on your history fella - we have a very good record against you and as you will know if your a facts man, you've rarely won at Elland Road, where you've had many high scoring pastings and I've been to the BB ground and your Ikea ground and seen Leeds spank you many times...remember 5-0 in the late 90's at PP? Sweet. Quite simply and like a few other non desrcript teams, you've had a decent run against us recently as you play us at our lowest ebb really. I mean, even dross like Southampton and Cardiff have done well against us recently...basically, one of Leeds worst teams in their history is when you seem to do it. Parity will be restored in time and Derby, niot even the biggest club in the East Midlands, will be once again also rans. See the BBC Sport website preview before the game? It was something like 46-24 in Leeds favour on wins.

As for yesterday, if it wasn't for Fielding it would've been a comfortable win. End of the day, promotion or not, we'll finish above you again snd thanks for turning up - We're not Famous Anymore.

MOT x
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NorwayRanger16 added 10:55 - Dec 28

Very important point in the sense that Swansea didn't get three. As I see it as imperative that we have Swansea behind us when may come in order to stay up.
Adel MOM for me, just hope this is him wanting to play for us and not just improving his performances for the sake of a transfer come January.
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GY_QPR added 12:11 - Dec 28

Solid performance without pulling up any trees, it was a bit easier for the back 4 when you only have 1 forward to mark. second half was 100% better than the first when we hustled swansea more and gave them less time on the ball. Thought a draw was a fair result as their goal should have been disallowed for handball but then they should have had a late penalty. we just need to get some positive results and with the run of fixtures after the arsenal game then there are some good opportunities.
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themodfather added 15:49 - Dec 28

we played very well..poor ref
faurlin had some space for once and this is another good result on the road
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MelakaRanger added 22:50 - Dec 31

Poor, lazy passing was rife - yet again - and cost us a point. Set pieces - again - were diabolical.

Bothroyd, again, was weak and useless.

We looked dangerous in the 2nd half once Young started going forward. But we gifted Arsenal so often and paid the price.

I fear the worse come Tuesday.

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snanker added 06:35 - Jan 1

Only managed to view & suffer some brief highlights ("low lights) but that was enough ! Mounting frustration in evidence on the pitch today despite creating some half chances and now to emphasize for all you pedantic R's the Canary game IS a must win ! January sales here we come !
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RBLOCKPAT added 07:05 - Jan 1

Its no good I cant sleep I just keep wondering when our players are actually going to show the world that they are good players and not pretending be. Time to get tough we have too many fairies in Wonderland, watching some of our players sauntering around yesterday put me on a downer for New Years Eve. Sorry but I dont want to see Jay Bothroyd wearing our beloved hooped shirt anymore he has had his chance and is just not worthy. I dont want us play a packed midfield and one up front anymore we havent got the quality to make it work, as we are losing games hand over fist I thought that Neil would have realised that, our defence gets opened up at will anyway so we might as well go 433 or 442 and have a bloody good go, its all going against the attacking principles that Neil Warnock bestowed at the start of the season. I can only think of two games this season where we had a real go, Wolves and Man City, all the rest has been a midfield tippy tappy and no end product which is only a recipe for a return to the hell of the Championship. Our coaching needs to change its got to be much bolder and much strickter on players who are supposed to put a small ball in a a very big net and do it regularly in return for a great deal of money and that when they run to a pitch they are going to give us the fans 110% commitment and desire and not the 60% I watched today. Dont show clubs like Arsenal, Utd, Liverpool etc so much respect they really are not that good, there are a few quality players in this league but as Blackburn proved today if you go at them you will have a chance. The players need to change the attitude they have and most importantly BELIEVE in themselves and maybe Neil thats down to you me old Richmond cocker!
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qlrken05 added 10:10 - Jan 1

An Excellent start for CB and do you notice, we have zero bookings
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winchesterbob added 10:21 - Jan 1

Mother said there would be days like this!!

We do need to start keeping clean sheets on a consistant basis, we didn't deserve any more than a point, as City stuck to their plan, but with some poor goalkeeping and a lack of finishing at the other end, we got none.
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Yorkshire_Dale added 17:18 - Jan 2

Well done everyone.......team,fans and management!

Steve Eyre really left us in the sh*t..........now we need to kick on and get some well deserved points.

Sod his compensation.
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jdalec added 17:20 - Jan 2

That was 200% better than the performances under Eyre. A lot more positive all round, we defended well and with confidence (Holden had a great game) and we went forward with pace and aggression. Thought we deserved all 3 points, frustrating when we had the ball in the net twice in 2nd half and neither were given (Ref had a nightmare) Hope we continue into the new year with this renewed gussto!!
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LostBoys added 17:22 - Jan 2

As you have been saying Nick the wheels have been coming off the bus for some weeks. I could only listen on the radio but it appears likely that the Lallana 'goal' crossed then line and lambert was blatantly pushed in the box and should have had a peno but missed easy chances and poor second half tactics coupled with a threadbare bench have done for us. We are hanging on to top place by the skin of our teeth. At least four signings needed in my opinion.
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pnc4eva1 added 18:27 - Jan 2

Dale were far more impressive. Preston went ahead after the linesman failed to spot a player yards offside in the build up. This resulted in Prsston sending over a cross from a throw in and dale conceded.

Under Eyre there have been too many times when we have conceded in the first twenty minutes and got no points. However, dale appear to developing a little more steel about their attitude.

Bogdanovic scored a desrved equaliser after ir appeared dale would draw a blank after many wasted chances.

The second half continued the way the first had ended, with dale on top. Then started the referee's disaster show. First of all he disallowed Holden's header. This was for climbing and Holden did appear to use the Preston defender as a ladder. However the second goal was disallowed for a foul on the keeper. This was surreal as Bogdanovic jumped to head on and the keeper ran into him. It was either a penalty for a foul on Bogdanovic or should have been allowed to stand.

The next weird decsion was the JK booking. A fifty fifty challenge saw JK win the ball and then get clattered. The free kick went to Preston and JK was booked.

To be fair to the referee his officials didn't help him
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newgolddream added 23:27 - Jan 2

Worst team in division at moment and we r falling behind the top 15 at an alarming rate. Unlucky today but it was still another defeat at W12. Mk Dons next and we need a win 2 lift the spirits. Of course it will be said the cup doesn't count but Itook absolutely no pleasure in being hammered in recent years by Port Vale and Rochdale albeit in the Carling Cup. Come on U R's.
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geraldo added 23:58 - Jan 2

Great to have a real centre forward again and bizarre to think he is being labelled " Barnes Homer" prob our worst ever player!!

Unfortunately I think Bogdanovic will prove too expensive to sign as I believe he is potentially better than COG - certainly he heads better and is much more mobile.
We stlll need to convert more chances and unfortunately Ball looks to have completely run out of steam.I think we need to win at least 8 of the remaining games which looks a big ask....
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MelakaRanger added 05:56 - Jan 3

Indeed we may well be one of the worst teams in the divison but with our players we really shouldn't be! I truely believe we have underperformed big time - hence my previous comments about NW

Still at least for the last hour we showed some guts and determination for once. Thats a great improvement over past performances. But even with 11 men Norwich were as good if not better than us.
Also, at last, the performances of SWP and AT were back up to scratch. So there were some positives to take from the match.

Bartons sending off was a disgrace. The Norwich player should be banned for 3 matches for conning the ref. But Barton should never had put himself in the position in the first place.

To be honest I hope we lose next week so that we can concentrate 100% on survival. I know it will be yet another loss for the team and I woill take no pleasure in that but I do not want us to do a 'Birmingham'. Survival is the only game in town, anything else is a distraction.



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dixiedean added 09:58 - Jan 3

""Joey Barton in red card controversy." Now there's a headline we never thought we'd see. I wish.... Am I the only one not surprised ? If he did what he did while playing for someone else we'd be baying for his blood and saying typical Barton. When he starts performing consistently well on the pitch ( not just on his PC) then I'll cut him some slack,but until then he remains a liability. Yes, the ref was a muppet, which was obvious before the red card,but even more reason to be sensible and not give him the opportunity.Not as bad as Walton was for Wolves though....
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snanker added 10:05 - Jan 3

Gutted to say the least but that loss had all the ingredients of a typical QPR performance of late. Deja vu, undermanned against an average Norwich side ! Barton, the good the bad and the Joey ! "Really" does he fancy he's in a Bunuel movie out there ? He was always going to come of second best in the tete-a-tete with Johnson because he is Barton whether innocent or not. What a mug ! Norwich worked it well. I can't fault the heads down bum up effort after the sending off but the Canary goal before half time was piss poor to concede & why Pilkington (left footer) was given so much time and space is perplexing to say the least given how close to the half we were ! We concede too many goals in crucial pressure periods of games.Paddy wasn't even close and you gotta question if he should get the nod in goal if he is not 100%. What worries me is that we are playing with NO luck ( great free kick by Taarabt turned onto the post ) a sure sign of a relegation candidate and the space Morrison had at the top of the six yard box when he scored the winner was...criminal given how hard we had grafted. Mind you we looked knackered for all that effort. SWP and Taarabt appeared the only one's likely and poor old Ale F. was going up and down on the spot. Its looking a bit Dyer (sic) at the moment to be sure and who knows were the next point is gonna come from ? Things can turn around but we need that crucial bit of luck me thinks.
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newgolddream added 11:23 - Jan 3

Did you say do a 'Birmingham', MelakaRanger ? The way we are playing at the moment that would be very tempting?? Next couple of months will define our season with a very difficult run of fixtures to end the campaign.
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HamptonR added 12:32 - Jan 3

QPR were unlucky yesterday but got luckier in the second half when they worked harder.
Jamie Mackie is 100% but is the end product there?
His recent two goals suggest that it could be but I really do have my doubts.
What is more frustrating is other players who do have the quality but do not always seem to give 100%
One thing I am certain of is that the ref yesterday was very poor, way before the sending off he was giving stupid silly fouls and letting Grant Holt decide what he should do next.
He gave a free kick for the foul on Barton but then ignored that, sent Barton off and ignored the incident that made him stop the game.
He showed how pathetic he was when toward the end of the first half the ball went in the upper loft and straight down the exit, Grant Holt started jumping up and down so the ref told Paddy Kenny to hurry up!
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newgolddream added 17:52 - Jan 7

A result for QPR and just reward for the excellent away following. Keepin my fingers crossed for Faurlin. Lookin 4ward for to the 4th round draw. Pity the replay isn't next week as it would be in the good old days.
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geraldo added 18:22 - Jan 7

What a shocker - losing to a team that has lost it's last 9 home games.
Looking at the stats we had 4 shots and no corners so the bubble looks to have burst!!
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MelakaRanger added 01:30 - Jan 8

Why oh why did Warnock play Faurlin?

I truly hope Alis injury is not as bad as first thought. If it is, we are screwed.

Didnt Warnock learn from last year? Obviously not!

Like I have said before he has lost the plot completely. He is totally out of his depth in the Premiership.






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Ranger78 added 09:01 - Jan 8

There can be no excuses for yesterday's result, it was an embarrassing disgrace!!!

Our best possible team should have been selected from the start and we should have done a number in an inferior side early enough to sub and rest our best players!!

Instead we allowed our already fragile confidence get worse, yet again get forced into panic subs to try and desperately save the game and get our top player injured because he is tired and trying too hard!

We need confidence badly and yesterday was the best time to do that. Our next game is away to a team who jus battered Utd!

There can be no excuses for yesterday and I'm afraid it had to go down as bad management
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MelakaRanger added 10:29 - Jan 8

Ranger78 I agree and yet disagree

We should not have played any of the first team. This was a chance for those on the cusp of the first team to go out and impress. To show the manager if they were hungry for a place in the Premiership team or just happy to keep drawing their wages and not performing. They should have been hungry with a LARGE H. Based on what happend last year, our 'star' players should have been rested. To an extent Warnock did this but why did he play Faurlin - probably our most consistent player this year? Win lose or draw it just didnt matter. What matters is next week and the few weeks after that.

Instead we had a miss-mash. I have not seen the match but having read many reports it seems we were poor. And to cap it all, thanks to Warnocks bad decision in playing Faurlin, we could potentially lose Ali for the rest of the season. Even if the injury is not as bad as first thought , the fact that we risked him is inexcusable.

If Ali's injury is as bad as reported (and I pray it is not) this may well be the final nail in NWs coffin.



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HamptonR added 17:50 - Jan 8

MelakaRanger.
Faurlin being injured has nothing to do with Warnock losing the plot or being out of his depth.
Judging by your previous posts any injury to any player would be due to Warnock losing the plot.

Didn't he learn from last year? - Come on, it happens!

Luckily we are still in the hat and we have just rawn Chelsea (should we win the replay)!!
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HamptonR added 17:52 - Jan 8

MelakaRanger.
Faurlin being injured has nothing to do with Warnock losing the plot or being out of his depth.
Judging by your previous posts any injury to any player would be due to Warnock losing the plot.

Didn't he learn from last year? - Come on, it happens!

Luckily we are still in the hat and we have just rawn Chelsea (should we win the replay)!!
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Bornhoop added 18:59 - Jan 8

I was at the game and found myself rather embarrassed by our performance. Towards the end of the game we joined in with mk fans in singing "premier league your having a laugh" bad display for the "travelling" away fans. I attend most home games for the r's and was ashamed of our display. Let's just hope we win replay so we can face the blue scum. You can stick the blue flag up your a#%e..
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Bornhoop added 18:59 - Jan 8

I was at the game and found myself rather embarrassed by our performance. Towards the end of the game we joined in with mk fans in singing "premier league your having a laugh" bad display for the "travelling" away fans. I attend most home games for the r's and was ashamed of our display. Let's just hope we win replay so we can face the blue scum. You can stick the blue flag up your a#%e..
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kirbys added 19:52 - Jan 8

Huge disappointment to the travelling support. We were well beaten in many ways and in my view were lucky to come away only two goals against.
The line up did not seem to work for us today. Bog on the left, Ormerod central sometimed switching with Ball who played high up in support. It seemed to make it difficult for us to get it out of defence and was constantly being broken down on the wings.
Give credit to a rejuvinated Harlepool who were really up for it and played at a higher tempo than us on this occasion.
No doubt Beechy has a great deal to ponder after this match.
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newgolddream added 20:06 - Jan 8

Just heard the news about Neil Warnock and sorry to see the big man go. However it was inevitable following our dreadful run of results and heres hoping that the board can bring in the right man to rescue our season. I see QPR have Chelsea in round four of the cup if we can manage to overcome MK in the replay. Any news on Ali Faurlin???
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collinge1 added 17:25 - Jan 10

Hi,I was at the game last night nd I have ben supporting Leeds for 30 years.First the support was FANTASTIC even though ESPN may not have liked it.I have memories of Leeds in their heyday but I have to say last night showed the Gulf between Leeds now and the Prem.The players effort was exellent and the stand out players in order were White,Lees O:Dea,Pugh,Clayton,Townsend nd then the rest.I do not understand why MacCorrmack didnt start and I am puzzled at the way Larry chops and changes the team.In my opinion its a case of what do I do next???? I thank him for what he has done but ask is he a his limit??????
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pedrodale added 17:20 - Jan 14

Lost before we'd started so gave them all a zero
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probbo added 13:46 - Jan 16

For the first 20 minutes things looked quite promising but the Derry challenge on Cabaye seemed to act as a wake up call for Newcastle and their fans. Prior to that they could barely string two passed together. Luke Young at fault for the Best goal perhaps, but he took it well to be fair.

Bothroyd's miss in the second half was that of a player clearly lacking confidence in front of goal.

Given the chances we created, a draw would not have flattered us but i'm sure thats been said a few times this season. We desperately need to start scoring some goals. Next seven games will define our season. Come on u R's!
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newgolddream added 14:33 - Jan 16

Another defeat for QPR and relegation on the horizon if we don't return handsomely in the run-up to the Man U game next April. Encouraging performance yesterday but poor finishing as usual undid all our good work. Cup game tomorrow night and we need a win to lift morale for the big tests ahead. Chelsea in the next round is a huge incentive and the Dons game is live on ITV 4.
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RBLOCKPAT added 17:09 - Jan 16

I thought we looked much more comfortable playing 442 its what we should have kept with all season our missed chances reflected the lack of confidence and we missed Faurlin, however the commitment was there Mackie and Bothroyd were excellent and Bothroyd who I didnt want back in the team, actually looked a player and I think that the discipline that Mark Hughes will bring and him having been a top top striker will help our forwards start producing SWP just needs that ruthless streak back because he has more chances than anyone and just strokes the ball instead of banging it and hopefully Hughes will rekindle things for him. We did enough to win and we are not that far away, everyone is going crazy over Swansea but we should have beaten them at the Liberty and we are not that far away and to all the cynics and critcs of TF and MH that I have seen written in the last couple of articles here, just get behind them both I am really excited about Mark Hughes being here, yes I loved Neil Warnock like everybody else but in a way I am glad he went when he did because I would have hated for the crowd to turn on him and there were signs that some were.
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BeauRanger added 22:33 - Jan 16

Good enough start as you might expect under a new Manager & looked more compact in the 4-4-2. All seemed to change after the Cabaye foul & always difficult to come back after going a goal behind. Better defending but still not enough of a goal threat & creativity going forward.

Apparently MH only won 2 of his first 18 games at Fulham....gulp!
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Harbour added 12:23 - Jan 18

Players looked lacking in confidence. Buz and Macheda did ok. Attacking we lacked composure SWP should have done better. At the back and midfield weak , missed AF AT and JB. Signings needed asap having said that great we got a result and kept a clean sheet for first time in months..
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spencer added 13:41 - Jan 18

I nearly fell asleep watching this game....should have watched Holby City instead.At least I was indoors...back to normal on Saturday V Wigan..I can't just nod off
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probbo added 13:53 - Jan 18

It was like watching a League 1 match until the last 10 minutes or so but all that aside, it is a win, the losing streak has been snapped and for that we should all be grateful.

It's funny how things go sometimes - has Ibehre not missed that sitter i'm not sure the R's would have levelled. Gabbidon pre match said that a win could kick start Ranger's season, and he scores his first competitive goal in six years. On such things fortunes can turn, so lets hope with a couple of decent signings we can get some sort of a run going.

And well played MK Dons too - it was clear to see which team was more comfortable with the ball and they will deservedly feel aggrieved they didn't get something out of those two matches.
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francisbowles added 14:19 - Jan 18

We are suckers to the counter attack, I believe we lack pace in the centre of midfield even when Faurlin was fit. Need to buy somone with pace or, if we can't find the right player for this position, play more of a diamond with someone holding in front of the defence.
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BigWilly added 14:32 - Jan 18

Brilliant decision, pure luck, or both? We howled when Hughes subbed Akos (our most effective player) after his superb free kick, and just as he was setting up the corner. Where's the logic there we cried, idiotic, stupid, etc? At least let him take the corner. SWP strolls over to take the kick instead....on Danny's head...goal. What do we know? If he hadn't made the substitution at exactly that moment, we wouldn't have scored. Genius. On such moments seasons are turned. Let's hope his decision making/intuition/luck persists. URRRRRRR's
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themodfather added 20:35 - Jan 18

it's a win...if ugly or undeserved, whatever...a win
at home, at last.
the cup can be a distraction but after a decade+ of losses, we now meet the "enemy", our rivals, a derby.....at home
let the ticket scramble begin.
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BeauRanger added 21:31 - Jan 18

We can't complain as a win in the cup makes a nice change....but I was sitting there last night watching the game thinking how is this team going to get another 25+ points needed to stay in the Premiership...?
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geraldo added 17:06 - Jan 21

Hammered by a team that was below us - I don't know what Beech tells the players but with 3 strikers on the pitch we manage 1 shot on target. I thought SE was bad ...................
We obviously need a new manager quickly but it would appear that it won't be Coleman.
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jo_qpr63 added 20:00 - Jan 21

You beauty!!. I luv em all! up up up the league we go!
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newgolddream added 20:45 - Jan 21

Magic win from the R's and 3 goals as well. Thrilled for Buz 2day as he turned back the clock with a masterful display. 2 wins in 4 days and both at W12 after a desperate run. Well done to all concerned.
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MelakaRanger added 23:27 - Jan 21

The green shoots of recovery have finally sprung to life.

SWP was much better, maybe he is about to shine?

Barton was poor I thought and continues not to impress.

Kenny had little to so but when he had to do something, he did nothing and a goal was scored.

Buz was supurb and hopefully will now be a first choice for the midfield.

Better teams than Wigan would have punished us but all said its 3 points in the bag! Well done to the team.

Now for another 4 or 5 wins from the next 6 games!
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MelakaRanger added 05:01 - Jan 22

A worrying fact given by the ESPN commentator on my coverage. QPR have 40 players on their books at the moment. 40!

Hopefully we can get shot of loads of this 'baggage' come the summer
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AshteadR added 09:14 - Jan 22

A wobbly start but pretty good thereafter
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BasingstokeR added 09:50 - Jan 22

We need to hope things to start clicking a bit more in our build up play, and someone starts gambling around Helguson's hold up play. As those three goals aren't replicable in most games. BUT a win is so good for the confidence.
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budaranger added 09:59 - Jan 22

God we needed that! The first five minutes were pretty nerve wracking, but got it together afterwards...still a few hairy moments defensively and seeing SWP on the left and having to cut inside the whole time is frustrating - but the result is all that matters
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BeauRanger added 12:36 - Jan 22

what a relief...

All seemed to be invigorated after the slow start & SWP looked much more positive in taking players on, DJ looked more mobile than Bothroyd although not much better in front of goal. Can Buzsaky get fit for enough the whole 90 minutes & consistently perform at the that level? Will make it interesting when Taarabt comes back?

Very good goals & a bit harsh to criticise PK on their free kick I thought??
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DorsetR added 13:36 - Jan 22

Encouraging signs, several players starting to play for their places under the new manager. Some with a point to prove maybe , Buzz in particular must seem like a new signing. MoM for two games says a lot for him. Thought Jamie played well too,never stopped running and chasing the ball down.Just needs to improve his finishing :) Tommy Smith seemed to be playing left back when he first came on, thank god he pushed up front and got the well deserved goal.
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Sam_Hoops1 added 01:16 - Jan 23

Much better all round I think. But why am I reading match reports from the likes of the Guardian and the Metro etc that give Barton a rating of 7/10. He was by far the worst player on the pitch. He gave the ball away more times than I care to count and his only real contribution was to get a yellow card for a poor tackle. For all his stupid tweets stating that he plays best when people are against him, he hasn't backed this up with performances on the pitch. The geordies must be laughing their heads off that we've taken his inflated ego and pay-packet off them. He really needs to buck his ideas up. His rant at Warnock was uncalled for, unprofessional and idiotic, and he did nothing to win the fans over on Saturday in my opinion. He must start performing like he claims he can 'cus so far he's been nothing but a disappointment and a waste of time/money. I feel Buz's great performance covered up Barton's poor performance but against better teams this will be exposed. The sooner Taarabt gets back the better. All in all though, a pleasing and well-deserved 3 points. Bring on the Chel-scum.
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quickpassrotter added 17:31 - Jan 23

Lots of different pov's re Barton's performance. I thought that at best he was average on Saturday, which is nowhere near good enough. Buzz was outstanding - hope that Hughes now gives him a good run as his confidence will increase even greater - not much choice in midfield anyway, so good on you Buzz. Tarbs likely to come in for Jamie when back from Africa. Love Jamie dearly but his first touch is terrible. Let's hope for some new signings this week.
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quickpassrotter added 17:35 - Jan 23

Feel pleased for Buzz as he is a genuine skilled player and seems to have gained back a lot of fitness and Hughes has faith in him. Barton seriously need to start playing - he currently looks light weight to me.
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LostBoys added 18:17 - Jan 24

A truly dreadful totally unacceptable performance worthy of the bottom of the table not the top. A poor left backs at right back with the right back on the bench and the squad players called up on the night proved what we all already knew the were not up for it.
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landsdownsaint added 12:05 - Jan 25

Awfull performance and no investment ,I think we are forgetting what a bargain the new 'regime' picked us up for,if we think we can win anything with Hammond,Harding ,Fonte and I'm starting to winder about Cork .whatever we like to say about Brighton they got a chairman with good wealth who's also a fan ,what have we really got?





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barryroch added 20:40 - Jan 28

Excellent performance by all the players. Thoroughly deserved. My MOM was Kevin Long
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Syke_Dale added 09:37 - Jan 29

Fan 'bloody' tastic..........!!!!
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Rooleyblue added 11:17 - Jan 29

From the 1st minute Dale were a different side to the last 6 months, every confidence we will avoid the drop, and I believe that John Colman has installed confidence and belief in the players of their own ability. onwards and upwards up the Dale.
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Rooleyblue added 11:20 - Jan 29

I cant believe that John Colman only has 9.5 on the ratings, someone is expecting better than yesterday, wow their expectations must be high.
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jdalec added 14:59 - Jan 29

2 questions, 1- why are we where we are in the league and 2 - why are Bury where they are in the league ?? Thought we were fantastic today, everybody played well. If we can maintain this momentum we will start to pull away from the danger zone. Big test next week away to Charlton. Come on Dale.!!!
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olympicdale added 18:39 - Jan 29

footballed to death, outstanding from 1-11 well played lads!!
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NorwayRanger16 added 18:59 - Jan 29

Kenny 7
Young 7
Ferdinand 7
Hall 7
Hill 7
Mackie 6
Barton 6
Buz 5
SWP 5
Smith 6
HH 6
Macheda 1
Hulse 6

MOM Hall
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ThermosNBlanket added 23:17 - Jan 31

Battered them second half - tempo far too slow the first.
Foul on Davis for their goal, our full backs distribution let us down and Fox was abysmal and gave the ball away far too ofte.
Someone needs to tell Fox he can occasionally take players on to mix it up not cross from 40 yards all the time.

A fit Puncheon will be a revelation, Tadanari was bright and keen but reminded me of a yapping Jack Russel but can see him a useful 20 minute cameo at the end of games.
Look like getting back to our best against a very good Cardiff side.
Looked 2 stonewall penalties but you need a ref who can get within 30 yards of the play to make the correct decision his position was atrocious.
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SaintNick added 09:29 - Feb 1

I agree with your analysis, however the players clearly are playing to system they are told to do, this involves plenty of 40 yard balls and crosses, most of which last night went astray (not just from fox I would add)

The first half shouted one thing at me, our system has stifled passion and urgency, the players with it were those like Puncheon who had a point to prove
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LostBoys added 10:15 - Feb 1

Should have won based on chances. I am the wrong end of the Kingsland to see if Kelvin was fouled but an Ok performance marred by some dreadful crossing from both wings. I thought Puncheon was excellent. Headers from the edge of the 6 yard box need to be practised and shooting from anywhere near the box not overplaying with the extra pass. Cardiff were ok - solid rather than inspiring with the usual timewasting. The referee was just abysmal. I do not expect him to get all of the difficult ones right but the obvious ones in his eyeline he should - the kamikaze tackle on Lallana in the box being one.
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MelakaRanger added 22:13 - Feb 1

Wow. Amazing first half hour. We were really good and Villa were awful. We deserved to be 2 nil up.

Then Villa started to up their game and from that minute the game changed and it was all Villa for the next 50 mins.

The 'luck' was with us tonight and at other times we would have conceded a couple of penalites and a shed full of goals. Villa will feel they were very unlucky not to win this game.

I though Taiwo had a very nervous game and he gave the ball away often. Mind you many players gave the ball back to Villa far too easily. In fact the game was very similar to the one against Chelsea. Villa had almost 70% possession and we simply kept giving them the ball. We must keep possession.

We looked tougher, fitter and more dangerous - especially in the first 30 mins. Its looking much better than just 2 weeks ago.

But this was 2 points lost and not 1 gained. We could have and should have, won. Still a point is a point and a valuable one at that.

Based on this performance and the players who will be back/available, I am expecting a thumping win on Saturday against Wolves

The green shoots of recovery have sprung!

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BeauRanger added 14:58 - Feb 2

Whilst I would have settled for a point before the game, going 2-0 up makes the draw disappointing & I can't help thinking we should have got more than the 2 points from both games against them this season.
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themodfather added 15:34 - Feb 2

surely a good point? despite being 2up away..before ko we'd have taken a pt and got one...poor ref didn't help either. sitting back and letting them come on in the 2nd half probably helped them but if mackie scores for 3-1, job done.....
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Sam_Hoops1 added 16:04 - Feb 2

Agree with 'themodfather'. If Mackie scores the easiest of chances he had to make it 3-1, I'm fairly certain we would have seen the game out fairly comfortably.
Was very disappointed when arriving at Villa Park to find out Hulse was starting but he didn't do too badly. Overall, I was fairly pleased and I think we'd all agree a point away at Villa is not a bad result at all.
The most pleasing thing for me was that when watching us play I couldn't help but think that the only missing ingredient was Zamora. With him starting (hopefully against Wolves on Saturday), I think he will link up very nicely with Cisse, who played very well last night but unfortunately was lacking decent service. Zamora can hold the ball up very well and more importantly keep hold of it and distribute it effectively, which I think is the main thing missing with Rangers at the moment. Don't know how many times I shouted "keep hold of the ball" last night but I think this problem should be eased with the arrival of Zamora, and also the return of Tarbs. Can't help but think that if Faurlin wasn't injured though that we would be much better in possession. Still, it will be like getting a brand new player when he comes back for next season.
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RBLOCKPAT added 23:17 - Feb 4

It was ashame that we couldnt see this team play the whole game we look like we have the makings of an exciting team. My concerns are that after we scored we shoul really have gone for them but we backed off and let them get into the game. Taarabt came of age and was magnificent in the second half and soon these near misses will turn into goals he needs to show the same performance and commitment next week and his confidence will grow and grow and he could tbe most exciting player in the championship and its sad that Cisse went bcacause Adel has obviously been lifted by the arrival of Cisse and in the second half would have given him the passes he needs to score goals. Im not sure if Zamoro was 100% fit but I think that once Diakite arrives we will have pace in midfield we are desperate for. Tayote looks a bit iffy and will need time to adabt Young really worries me defending he is not good enough around his six yard box. Barton keeps givig the ball away in the wrong area and needs to play in a more advanced role SWP I feel needs that goal to get him going as for Hulse Im sorry I just shake my head as to what he is doing in our squad, Mackie should have come on instead.
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RBLOCKPAT added 23:17 - Feb 4

It was ashame that we couldnt see this team play the whole game we look like we have the makings of an exciting team. My concerns are that after we scored we shoul really have gone for them but we backed off and let them get into the game. Taarabt came of age and was magnificent in the second half and soon these near misses will turn into goals he needs to show the same performance and commitment next week and his confidence will grow and grow and he could tbe most exciting player in the championship and its sad that Cisse went bcacause Adel has obviously been lifted by the arrival of Cisse and in the second half would have given him the passes he needs to score goals. Im not sure if Zamoro was 100% fit but I think that once Diakite arrives we will have pace in midfield we are desperate for. Tayote looks a bit iffy and will need time to adabt Young really worries me defending he is not good enough around his six yard box. Barton keeps givig the ball away in the wrong area and needs to play in a more advanced role SWP I feel needs that goal to get him going as for Hulse Im sorry I just shake my head as to what he is doing in our squad, Mackie should have come on instead.
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snanker added 23:32 - Feb 4

Utterly disappointed to say the least. It's no comfort when the opposition manager states Cisse should not have been red carded and Wolves fans blog how average they were & fortunate enough to get the 3 points ! That's one too many times I have seen Luke Young defend & concede a strike like that but on the positive side Zamora converted and we really looked the goods for half an hour. AT was hungry for it and now its up to management to continue to get the best out of him with more quality players on the park. We continue to drop points from winning positions & our defending under pressure is the main concern at the moment. Luckily other results around us didn't do the R's too much harm but once more we come up against a side next week who had a good old fashioned flogging today & will be desperate to respond in kind. More gut wrenching stuff in store !
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MelakaRanger added 23:59 - Feb 4

We couldnt win from 2 nil up at Villa!

We lost from 1 nil up against Wolves!!!! Even with 10 men we should have won by a couple of goals

After so much promise we again throw points away . No one can deny this is relegation form.

Barton is in no way a leader and he is part of 'our problem'

And Taiwo is flippin' awful too.

If we do not get 3 points at Blackburn then I reckon its 'curtains'
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SomersetHoops added 13:05 - Feb 5

Cisse was at fault for us getting nothing from this game and although there are mittigating circumstances I don't think it was a leg-breaking tackle. I saw the push but looked away for the chin-grab as I didn't expect anything else to happen, so didn't at first understand the red card, but with the rules as they are Clattenburg had no choice. In a previous time it would have been ignored. Not having him available for 3 games will be a great loss.

My concern is the way our midfield continues to give the ball away in dangerous places and Barton is the worst culprit for this. His play is lacking in accuracy and subtlety and I'm beginning to wonder if he has some kind of serious problem. He is certainly not the player we thought we had when he joined us. I thought he didn't really care, but I saw the anguish on his face after several of his many mistakes yesterday so I think he does. On the other hand he gives the ball away and does not seem to attempt to recover it which seems uncharacteristic. Something is wrong there and I hope MH is replaying these errors and attempting to deal with them. He may need some time on the bench if we can find someone to fill the gap.

The positive thing about the game was the return of Adel Taarabt who tried everthing he could to win the game on his own in the last quarter of an hour when he was up front. We expected great things from Zamora and I think when he has settled in he will be great. He got in good positions and looked good, but apart from his goal seemed a bit issolated after we were down to 10 men and particularly so in the second half.

Have we had our share of bad luck now or is there more of it to come? I was concerned that many of our fans thought, with our new team, we only had to turn up to win this game and I had hoped they were right.

I don't think Mick McCarthy could believe his luck in getting three points from this game which we were winning at a stroll until Cisse's moment of madness. We have the team to stay up now, but it will be incidents like that and Barton's sending off that will lead to our relegation unless our whole team get a grip and eliminate them from their behaviour and I hope Mark Hughes will stress that to them in the stongest possible way.


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newgolddream added 13:37 - Feb 5

Very disappointing yet again and relegation is a real concern when we keep firing away points through ill-discipline, turning over ball and poor defending. Mind u when Cisse was red carded we should have had a bigger cushion to see out the match. Currently level on points with Wolves and we could be eight points clear of them after the events of the last two matches.
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NorwayRanger16 added 14:24 - Feb 5

There were three game changing incidents against Wolves yesterday. Up until the first and second of them occured this game only had one winner and everyone was just waiting for our second goal and the start of a rout.

1. The injury to Frimpong.
Wolves and MM came with a very defensive 4-5-1 lineup, and was trailing 1-0 and not even threatened once up until the point when Frimpong injured himself when challenging Barton in the 24th minute. Being 1-0 down at this moment in time MM decided to put on Ebanks-Blake instead of an like-for-like midfielder and changing to a more attacking 4-4-2. The game instantly changed, Wolves got a foothold for the first time in the game, with two up front unabling us to dominate possesion and play the ball out from defence. The first bit of belief started to grow within the Wolves team.

2. Cisse's sending off.
At first I was furious with Clattenburg. But after thinking it through my blame started to shift towards Cisse. In my mind this is not a red card, but the problem is Cisse's actions gave Clattenburg an oppurtunity. By the letter of the law, when you raise your arms towards an opponent you can be sent off. Had Clattenburg used some common sense though, he might, as so many other refs, have settled for a yellow card. Roger Johnson was not getting anywhere near Cisse all game, he decided to make a totally unnecessary challenge with no chance of winning the ball, he wanted to rattle Cisse. And he got more than he bargained for with Cisse's stupid mistake. Now Wolves belief really started to grow, and they ended the half with plenty of encouragement.

3. Early goal in the second half.
I was eagerly anticipating what Mark Hughes had in stall for the second half. But his plans with ten men went out the window within two minutes. Barton gave the ball away and Young showed, like against Newcastle away, that he struggles one against one inside the box. From being a game with only one winner, this was now a game with another winner unfortunately. And Wolves were allowed to run it their way until they got the lead.
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probbo added 16:02 - Feb 5

It's totally dispiriting that we lose at home to a team below us who had not won a match in the last nine. I wonder if QPR are jixed at times, the way we provide a means for players and Clubs to end the 'bad runs' they are on. N'Zogbia hadn't scored in 18 appearances for Villa - QPR turn up and he breaks his duck!

I like Luke Young but as with the away match at Newcastle, his poor defending led to the goal (in this case Wolves's equaliser).

And I just don't see Barton as Captain material - maybe he doesn't see it himself. Perhaps if was given to someone else he might start playing a bit better.

All thar said, i'm confident we will stay up. Cisse will hopefully learn his lesson, Zamora gives us a physical presence up front thats been lacking and Adel had his best game in months. Next week's trip to Blackburn has become a real 'six pointer' but i think we'll be ok. C'mon U R'ssssahhh!
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Royboy48 added 19:55 - Feb 5

I have repeatedly voiced two concerns over QPRs prospects for premiership survival

1) Too many new players
2) Not enough time

Nothing that happened at Villa midweek or W12 yesterday did anything at all to reassure me on either point

Stability, maturity, continuity and consistency do the job every time. I couldn't help noticing both Swansea and Norwich won again yesterday displaying these traits

In recent games the outstanding performances have come from last year's Championship winners Helguson, Smith, Buszaky, Kenny on Wednesday, Tarrabt yesterday. Shaun Derry for all his lack of pace did a great job shielding the defence from O'Hara, once he went off - you saw what happened.

How can Tayote, Daikate, Onuoha, Cisse, Zamora - that's half a team - be expected to forge a winning mentality, team ethic and reliable formation and tactics in 15 games - or 12 in Cisse's case?

Yesterdays game was a repeat prescription of so many games this season. We have the worst second half record of any Premiership club and suffer from a serious lack of on-field leadership. Barton and SWP both seem to have the demons of doubt on their shoulders, Luke Young looks exposed every time there's an attack on our right. Ferdinand is distracted by Terry according to both Sparky and Rio

Are there three teams worse than QPR in the Premiership?
How do get them below us?

In the immortal words of Matt Bellamy - Time Is Running Out

We need some luck and will probably have to rely on moments of individual brilliance recently shown by Buszaky, Tarrabt, Smith and Cisse

Don't think we can rely on teamwork.
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MelakaRanger added 09:23 - Feb 13

If someone from Mars landed and asked '"what exactly does it mean to be a QPR supporter?" I would simply say - 'watch this match and you will know'!!!

After watching the match the Martian would surely ask me "why do you put yourself through such pain and agony. Surely your stress level must be sky high?"

My reply would be "I dont really know why but I'd rather support QPR than anyone else" :)

It just wouldn't be the same would it?
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LostBoys added 19:17 - Feb 18

Excellent performance - i do not want to single players out but Lallana ans Schneiderlin were top class
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dune added 20:24 - Feb 18

Fantastic performance. Great to see Tadanari score too. Onwards and upwards.
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1962saint added 23:52 - Feb 18

I thought Lee was class when he made his first appearance at Millwall and he confirmed it today. We now have incredible strength in depth in the striking department and midfield. Apart from Holmes out on loan we have Barnard, De Ridder, Falque, and Barnard who can't even make the bench. What a contrast to our neighbours down the road.
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winchesterbob added 09:17 - Feb 19

Very good team display against medocre opposition, that said Jack Cork had an outstanding game in the middle of the park and Lee's goal was just what we have been waiting for.
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jdalec added 10:57 - Feb 19

Thought we edged it overall. Defensively we look a lot better than we did Pre Christmas and I think that shows (One goal conceded in 3 games) we kept a very good and proven striker quiet today.A result at Charlton would be nice.....we can all dream !!!!
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SaintNick added 11:04 - Feb 19

Im surprised no one mentioned Fox, created three of the goals and was a thread with his crossing espcially from corners all afternoon
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bigprawn added 12:30 - Feb 19

Good performance. We had to dig in and battle much more than the Bury game. Jason keenedy was fantastic - tackling, energy, passing. Barry-Murphy rarely hit a bad pass and Jonah was Jonah. Even Thompson did ok when he came on and I am not a Joe Thompson fan.

Also, I honestly think we have two quality fullbacks at the moment. Widdowsen is quality and if there is a chance we could sign Darby permanently then I think theboard should be exploring it.

Just missing that 20/25 goal a season player.
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LostBoys added 19:26 - Feb 25

Good performance on a crap pitch. Great on to Leeds.
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MelakaRanger added 21:49 - Feb 25

I would like to say that this season has been good whilst it lasted.

But it hasnt been.

Taarabt can keep soft footing his shots on target for ever more & he still wont score
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RBLOCKPAT added 22:14 - Feb 25

I didnt look forward to today and hated every minute of it, from the kick off you could just sense that there was going to be one organised outfit on the pitch and it wasnt going to be us. It must be a very difficult job for a manager to take charge of a struggling team and unless your name is Martin O'Neil it will take time to get them used to new methods which is possibly why Tony Fernandes should have had more faith in NW. But Mark Hughes is our manager and obviously he might run out of time before he can influence a team shockingly lacking in confidence. To me we seem to play too deep inviting the opposition to pressurise us into giving the ball away and the biggest culprits today and have been for the last few matches, not that than any of the players were sure footed, were Barton and SWP, there is no direct play and nobody wants to take on any resposibility for having a go at actually trying to score its all a bit ' After you Claude ' I had my head in my hands more today than the whole of the season and it just seems that none of the players are on any sort of the same wavelength with any other and where do they go from here. Diakites sending off just highlights the fact that football is getting ever nearer to a non contact sport, however three players missing three games for us at this stage and with all the big guns coming here in the next few weeks doesnt look good for us. I feel incredibly despondant and just pray that the three teams below us keep playing as badly as us and we might just escape.
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MelakaRanger added 06:44 - Feb 26

I feel you pain! I think so many of us feel just like you do.

When the end comes and it surely will, lets just write this season off a stiff lesson and as long as we learn from it and make amends next season, then so be it. We will come back better and stronger. Then the Premiership team of 2013-14 will make us all proud.

Curently though the reality is that we have a team of individuals that are A) playing as individuals B) lacking any confidence and C) many of them are performing at maybe 10% of what was expected.

The summer clear out should include Barton and SWP as since they arrived we have actually got worse. Hopefully we can keep hold of Zamora and Cisse, who should both put the Championship on fire. Likewise Diakite will shine once he gets used to English footie.

Assuming we keep the likes of Onuoha, Traore and Fauline (and of course Hughes) then maybe we just need a new Goalie and a new left back ?
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HollowayRanger added 11:54 - Feb 26

what happened today was exactly what i thought would happen

new player just in from africa where they can still tackle for fun thrown in at the deep end in the premiership,6 fouls in 30 minutes and goodbye to another 3 points

teams dont have to beat us we beat ourselves again!
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themodfather added 15:21 - Feb 26

time for joey and swp to be dropped....diakite was so naive, bedut and all...another flop.
we are whimpering and sinking, WHERE'S THE GUMPTION, THE FIGHT, TEAM SPIRIT,PRIDE?? sorry to sound like a sppech from "cool runnings"...
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newgolddream added 18:41 - Feb 26

Themodfather echoes all our thoughts at the moment. These guys are embarrassin the Blue & White Hoops week in week out. Why didn't Mark Hughes remove Diakite when it was inevitable he was heading for an early shower? Incredible that we are still outside the bottom 3 and a healthier goal difference than our relegation rivals. Circumstances will change for us I'm sure," Hughes told BBC Sport after the match. I really hope u r right, Sparky. Come on u R's!!!!
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coolranger added 22:18 - Feb 26

We looked like a Championship side playing a very competent, well organised Premiership side.

I think we are simply out of our depth.
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e1337prodigy added 23:05 - Feb 26

I agree with all of you. Except maybe RBLOCKPAT last sentence. Wigan have got 5 points from there last 3 matches; which means they might be getting red hot at the right time. Wolves are finally playing to their potential drawing away to newcastle, and blackburn have yakubu who will probably save them from relegation. only bolton seem to be worse than us (and they have the easiest remaining schedule apparently according to a website I read), and we play them in 2 weeks time and will probably lose that too, although we will have cisse back and might win.
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HollowayRanger added 18:20 - Mar 3

Draw was about right we edged it but as usual were too negative last 20 mins more worried about saving a point then winning 3.
And again everton goal came from one of our own (taarabt),best players for me Zamora scored and laid balls off well,back 4 all good but Onuoha the star broke up so many of evertons attacks,biggest flops barton swp taarabt(2nd half).
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MickB added 18:46 - Mar 3

How can the ratings be so generous to Barton? And isn't it ironic that the first candidate for the discard heap, Clint Hill, is probably our moss reliable defender.
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Blenkinsop added 21:38 - Mar 3

I thought the match was pretty poor really. We came needing a win and it started to look likel towards the end of the first half with Antonio begining to get the better of your left back. In the second half we played longer and longer balls that went awry and Dale established themselves as the stronger, more purposeful side. I thought the pen was debateable but I need a second look, my relief whn your boy hit the post. Thought we ay have had a shout as time ran out.
By far the best entertainment of the day was the kids yellows v Blues where the Yellows nicked it against the run of play.

Best news of the day was that Oldham came back from 2 down to dump the Blades in injury time and just to put the icing on the cake Kuqi got the injury time winner.

Your Police, Stewards & Chippy were first class. Hope you get the requisite number of points needed.
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HamptonR added 21:53 - Mar 3

MickB - The answer is simple, Barton played well.
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ShotKneesHoop added 22:15 - Mar 3

When was this?
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HamptonR added 22:52 - Mar 3

Today.

I may be in the minority but Barton played well today, he drove the midfield forward and worked hard.

He may not be everyone’s ideal captain and he isn’t mine but despite what he earns, what he tweets and what people think. He had a good game today.
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MelakaRanger added 23:48 - Mar 3

What a difference to last week! For once we were the best team on the field. Had Cisse played we would have won by 2 or 3 for sure

Thats the best I have seen Barton play for 6 months. SWP was still weak though.

Taarabt could have cost us the game - twice. He is just too casual - lazy -with his passing. He will loose us more games than he will win if he keeps on like that.

Maybe just maybe there is hope....

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MelakaRanger added 23:51 - Mar 3

Hey. I went to do the Players Ratings but couldnt find Squirrel !

He was man of the match!
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geraldo added 00:03 - Mar 4

this was the first home game I have seen in 8 weeks following surgery, so my last game pre-dates JC.
My initial reaction is that not a lot has changed - OK the defence is much better but overall we don't look like winning football matches.
Drawing the remaining games 0-0 will see us go down and that is the best we can hope for unless we get some real creativity.It's not just down to the front men ( altho Symes does look pretty ineffectual) we need skill with the final ball and particularly more out wide.I thought Adams was pretty wasteful with some decent opportunities and Widdowson had a real nightmare defensively so never got forward.If we do go down then I hope that Dunphy has the balls to put his hand up and admit responsibilty....
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RBLOCKPAT added 00:24 - Mar 4

The squirrel was on his own up front for long periods in the first half but no one could find him which was ashame because I thought his movement and energy levels were superb and was very surprised that Mark Hughes didnt send him out for the second half. All joking aside I thought we played very well in periods today and it was just luck that desserted us. I am one of Joey Bartons biggest critics and although he gave the ball away a few times he really did battle for the team. I thought Clint Hill was superb today and looks more at home centrally, Derry played well and there was alot of grit, it will be interesting to see next week whether Diakite comes back and takes the place of SWP who I think needs a rest and can come on as an impact player. Hope Cisse can pick up where he left off before getting sent off.
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RBLOCKPAT added 00:32 - Mar 4

The squirrel was on his own up front for long periods in the first half but no one could find him which was ashame because I thought his movement and energy levels were superb and was very surprised that Mark Hughes didnt send him out for the second half. All joking aside I thought we played very well in periods today and it was just luck that desserted us. I am one of Joey Bartons biggest critics and although he gave the ball away a few times he really did battle for the team. I thought Clint Hill was superb today and looks more at home centrally, Derry played well and there was alot of grit, it will be interesting to see next week whether Diakite comes back and takes the place of SWP who I think needs a rest and can come on as an impact player. Hope Cisse can pick up where he left off before getting sent off.
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MelakaRanger added 04:44 - Mar 4

Yes once again Clint Hill proved his worth. Shame Warnock had him off on loan earlier in the season. He showed a lot of grit and determination.

Might be useful to give him another years contract?
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newgolddream added 10:18 - Mar 4

Great to see Clint Hill given credit for his yet another solid performance. If and is say if we r playing in next season's Championship he would be the first name on my team sheet. Could have done with three points yesterday but its was certainly some consolation that we didn't receive a red card and more importantly didn't lose. Should have a strong squad available for the 'MUST WIN' Bolton match.
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francisbowles added 10:31 - Mar 4

I thought that Hill was outstanding for the 2nd week and if he keeps it up will earn another year, especially if we do go down. I thought Barton was better against Fulham and much better today. All players make mistakes and if he can avoid giving the ball away he is well worth his place in the team. I am not a fan of his either but we have to get behind All the players. I was disappointed that Mackie wasn't pushed up alongside Zamora who had played the lone striker roll very well. Onuoha getting better (and fitter) with every game.
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BeauRanger added 17:04 - Mar 4

Yes definitely another contract for Clint Hill, whatever division next season. If only more of the players had his attitude & application.
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BeauRanger added 17:06 - Mar 4

yes definitely another year fro Clint Hill whatever division next season!
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LancsBushRs added 16:01 - Mar 10


Oh dear.
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francisbowles added 16:02 - Mar 10

I only managed to see the game on the internet with a foreign commentary but, with that restriction, I don't think we could have done much more. The Hill goal, looked a penalty, Mackie unlucky, Zamora hit the underside of the bar and what were the bookings of Onuoha and Diakite for? A brave attempt, 3 subs (although I wouldn't have swapped Taiwo for Traore) to win the game almost came off but backfired. Diakite looks very good but I don't suppose he'll want to sign for a Championship club.
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newgolddream added 16:06 - Mar 10

So disappointing yet again.7 points from 24 against our main rivals is a shocking return and will probably condemn us to to Championship football next season. The new management team has been a disaster so far and a bottom of the table finish is on the cards if things don't change very soon. Have just checked the relegation odds and the bookies are tipping us to go down for the first time this season. The next couple of months will reveal all.
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QPRFish added 16:36 - Mar 10

1997-98 Jamie pollock contributed to keeping us up.

2011-2012 Has bob pollock contributed to sending us down......?
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westealinghoop added 17:37 - Mar 10

How can Barton get a rating of 3*?????
Presumably he got 1 point each for putting his boots on the right feet, and the third for tying his laces up all by himself?!?!?
I'm not sure that Wright-Phillips had boots on today!!
Perhaps he mixed them up with his bedroom slippers????
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hoops123 added 18:12 - Mar 10

Shocking. Woeful and limp. No desire, no passion and not a clue. With the exception of Hill it was relegation material. Barton can't pass for toffee and neither can Ferdinand or Traore. SWP can't trap a ball to save his life. Hughes made a major error by playing SWP down the centre. Buzsaky and Mackie should have been in from the off, particularly with Tarrabt missing. Buzsaky is the only dead ball expert we have. His ability was seriously missed today. onuoha went walkabout leaving their goalscorer unmarked. I make him responsible for at least 4 goals since his arrival - not the player I expected. Hugely disappointed.
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derbyhoop added 20:31 - Mar 10

I now understand why Clive leaves it 24-48 hours before writing his report. I got back at about 4:30 and I was still wondering how we managed to lose.
After the first 10 minutes we were the better side. I thought we controlled the tempo of the game, created chances, hit the bar twice, had a perfectly good goal disallowed. Either bnot good enough or not lucky enough. Today, it was the latter.
What we didn't do was defend properly for the full 90 minutes. We switched off twice and conceded twice. We didn't score when we were on top.
IMHO, Barton and Diakite dominated the midfield and we should have got more out of it.

Before the game I thought the side that lost today would go down and I think we need to start looking at travel guides to Hull and Ipswich.
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jo_qpr63 added 21:04 - Mar 10

Hill, again , had a good game. Barton was good apart from a couple of misplaced through balls.I thought Cisse and Zamora played ok together, there is def goals between them and probably better then mayby Bothroyd and a fit DJCambell.Ho hum..Here we go again! In my opinion SWP has to be dropped, Taiwo seemed very slow but as for Diakite were the hell have we got him from!! Bad Bad signing. got us loads of free kicks in our own area. He just doesnt know what to do with a football apart from run with it or kick people who have it. We played like a team that havnt really played together very much because thats exactly what we are. I still dont think we should be written off yet. For me weakest link is SWP , he should of buried that shot instead of trying a tekkers top corner curler. Again the championship players looked more dangerous, Hill,Mackie, Buzacky . We had a great foundation of players that we should of built from instead of throwing money at some random household names and i think thats where Warnock got it wrong.
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MelakaRanger added 22:39 - Mar 10

Two very poor teams and mistakes everywhere. Park football much of the time

We never really looked like we could beat them yet they were there for the beating.

Bartons passes and spot kicks as useless as ever,

For much of the time we looked clueless and never seemed to make space or to 'be there' for team mates.

Where was the team coordination and spirit that we had last week?

Repeating this performance will bring us zero points between now and seasons end.

I now expect us to go down, bottom of the leage



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phomem added 22:55 - Mar 10

Matty Edwards did well in defence for a keeper
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jo_qpr63 added 23:31 - Mar 10

Melakaranger, diddnt we score from a Barton corner. Agree we was poor but i dont think we should highlight Barton as the main culprit. I still cant belive SWP diddnt score, worse then Buzackys last week.
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snanker added 00:09 - Mar 11

In the 21st century with the money involved in the Premiership it is ludicrous that there is no goal line technology. The linesman said he didn't see it for the bodies in the way and at 5' 5" I believe him. Then it is down to the ref given the reaction of both sets of players to refer the call to the camera. If he doesn't have that option then the call to give the benefit of the doubt to the home side is usually the norm either way. Both the first Bolton and the QPR goals were offside and the R's shout for a late penalty was justified on two counts an initial handball and a foul.To say the officials were poor is a clear understatement.
That established the R's did enough to earn something out of the game but their woeful finishing was again their undoing with Klansic burying an almost identical shot that SWP had blasted well wide (no left foot !) in the first half. The bottom 3 "bad luck" factor is now well and truly entrenched in the side and every year we see 1 of the relegated teams down due to it as much as some average finishing on the pitch. Sadly this year it looks like the R's will be that team. With fortune not currently favouring the brave I don't know how long the players can mentally work to turn this around. The only opportunity left now is to win matches they aren't given a chance in and that makes us one hell of a long shot.
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MelakaRanger added 04:50 - Mar 11

I agree Barton is not the main culprit he is just one of the 'main culprits'

If anyone attempted 50 free kicks, corners, passes then simply by the law of averages one or two would be 'good'. Out of every 50, Barton does indeed make one or two 'good' spot kicks, whereas he should only be making 1 or two bad kicks!

Equally how can anyone of SWP's supposed pedigree be so flippin' useless?

We are as good as down now so we have nothing to lose anymore. So how about benching JB and SWP for 2 games and see how we perform. Things couldnt get any worse and maybe they would get better. Time maybe to start thinking/preparing for next season?

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hoops123 added 11:32 - Mar 11

Our championship winning side of last year would have battered Bolton. Simply no team team spirit or desire with this lot. The effort shown by Mackie when he came on should embarrass the rest of the overpaid clowns. Hill has now been the mom for 3 consecutive games, simply for his never say die attitude and clear desire to stay in the team. Faurlin makes Barton look like a pub footballer.....my patience has finally gone.
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texasranger added 13:24 - Mar 11

hoops123 got it dead right ! I can not believe SWP started while Mackie and Buz were on the bench. And all those elementary mistakes - mis-hit short passes, heavy first touch and lack of passion. Pathetic.
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ElvaRam added 22:48 - Mar 11

A very disappointing effort by The Rams. No Jamie Ward = No Spark ! Theo Robinson lost almost every up front battle, No. 6 had him in his pocket.Carrol, what a waste of rations he is.
Catch up didn,t work for us in this game.
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e1337prodigy added 23:07 - Mar 11

:'(
Finally we look like we are capable of scoring, but then our defence disappears. Maybe next weeks formation should be 1-2-4-3. Have Clint Hill on the line blocking shots because I can assure you he will give 110% to keep that ball out. Derry Diakite just a couple yards in front of Hill constantly side stepping in front of the goal to block shots like some players on table football game. barton, buzsaky, tarrabt (if fit), traore (or Smith). zamora, cisse and mackie up front... and just hope we score more goals than the opposition.
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QPunkR added 11:23 - Mar 12

I honestly believe someone should sabotage Sheidt-Phillips' boots before a game (although the way he plays, looks like they already have!) to stop him being picked as a guarenteed starter. The man is absotively, posolutely useless. He has no redeeming qualities on a football pitch whatsoever, and why he therefore started in the creative space behind our decent front 2 instead of Akos or even Mackie simply defies belief.
We weren't helped by some woeful officiating, but Hughes needs to take a hard look at himself with regards to team selection.
Our predicament summed up in 6 words;
Going down, going down, going down
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RichardMilgate added 18:36 - Mar 17

Starting to think we'll do it :-)
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SaintNick added 11:04 - Mar 18

me too !
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macro added 19:24 - Mar 19

I see Matty Edwards is still starring off the bench - more than just a goalie
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D_Dale added 22:02 - Mar 19

I see Matty Edwards is still starring off the bench - more than just a goalie .

And the likes of Craig Dawson and Fon Williams still appear under 'Ratings Summary for the Current Season' ...
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Andym added 22:56 - Mar 20

Good evening from a wet and windy Valencia. Well done on your victory this evening. I have read a quote from one of our fans that states it was a match between two good teams one who could score and one who could not. Looking at the stats on the BBC we had 54% of the possession, 13 shots to 7, 6 on target to 4, and eight corners to nil but lost on the most important stat of all 0 goals to 2. The rest of the results have gone for you too and with WHU and Reading still having to play each other I am confident that you will be looking to trips to the likes of Old Trafford, Anfield and the KC next season. Despite our defeat tonight I have not given up hope of playing you in the Premiership by which time we should have discovered how to score. Best wishes for the rest of the season.
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geraldo added 12:31 - Mar 21

This was a shocking performance and prob puts us down. But it is also a time to be realistic. There is no one in the team who has cost money so we have a team of cast offs, and there biggest problem is consistency which is why no body else wanted them!! For instance Symes went from world beater on Sat to anonymous last night whilst Edwards looked like a pub team player.
If Dunphy has the war chest he has spoken about then he needs to open it at the start of next season in lg 2.
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ArchersRoad added 17:33 - Mar 21

Yeh, that was the main difference between the sides. Hull had more chances but couldn't hit the target often enough and when they did SuperKelvin was up to the task. Jos had a great game and will probably get the Saints man of the match but for me Spiderman was the outstanding player. He and Jos read the game brilliantly. Hull were a tidy team and defended well - if they can find some scoring boots they've got an outside chance of making the play-offs. Their best player was the No.27, Josh King - I'd try to make his loan deal permanent if Man Utd are willing to sell! Anyhow, full credit to Saints who continued to press throughout the game - a positive performance against a good team. Oh yeh, Steve De Ridder looked class again when he came on, surely he should play more often? And Hammond should have come on much earlier in place of Puncheon, who had another awful game. But no complaints, on this form we could well have promotion wrapped up before Reading come to town! (if Carling ran a football league we'd clinch promotion and relegate Portsmouth all in one match!)
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probbo added 22:33 - Mar 21

Yee-haarrrgghhh - a home win!

What a great come back. The upcoming fixtures still look horrendous but lets savour the moment, for only the third time this season!

I just wonder if MH will be bold and leave Barton on the bench for the next match.
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MelakaRanger added 22:47 - Mar 21

Barton out = the team believed!

The most amazing game I have seen for years

Ditch Barton and believe!
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newgolddream added 22:49 - Mar 21

Fantastic stuff from the Hoops. Wasn't it fitting to see Derry (first for the club), Cisse (against his old club) and Jamie Mackie (a QPR legend already) score the crucial goals to bring us out of the bottom 3. A long road ahead but what a confidence booster for all concerned at W12 tonight.
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MelakaRanger added 22:55 - Mar 21

Proof to the management that we are better without WP and even better still without Barton.

I hope they have finally realised this
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OziRanger added 23:07 - Mar 21

Sorry I can't rate each player... nor provide you with a match report, but sitting here at work in Australia and ready to kick my computer in at around the 69 minute mark I can tell that this IS a momentous win! Nuances aside, to come from 2 down and land three huge hits in 13 minutes is the stuff of legends. It may be "a swallow" of a win but there seems to be new steel in London..?
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SW17_RRR added 23:07 - Mar 21

uuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuurrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrsssssssssssss
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MelakaRanger added 23:34 - Mar 21

Yes woke up at 4am here to watch the match live, At nil 2 down I was slumped in the sofa and dreading the rest of the match.

Then the commentator said Hughes was about to substitute Barton. Mackie came on and I sat up, Within a minute I was on the edge of my seat. And I stayed there for the rest of the match.

That was the most incredible 25 mins of watching QPR that I can remember.

It showed what we have been capable of for the past 6 months but never delivered on. It showed was 'team spirit' can do. The team believed they could come back and they did.

This win should boost their confidence by a million %

Roll on Saturday

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NorthfieldsR added 23:59 - Mar 21

any tw*t tweets yet? boo
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e1337prodigy added 00:17 - Mar 22

We were so lucky in that win. Our defending was terrible as usual, especially the second goal Liverpool scored (or the action leading up to there second goal), 3 players stood there and let the player cut inside. At least Kenny was better. Barton and SWP need to be on the bench, maybe they are tired I don't know. But they are not performing to their ability. C'mon you R's.
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qprmick added 00:44 - Mar 22

Good finish, onward and upwards.
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francisbowles added 10:38 - Mar 22

13 MINUTES where have I heard that before! 1975-76 Wolves 1 Liverpool 0 with 13 MINUTES to go and we would be League Champions but then Liverpool scored 3 in the last 13 MINUTES to take our title! Could those 13 MINUTES last night be the kick start our season needs and be the most important in our history?

Mackie is definitely an impact sub. I would like to see Hughes replace Barton with Buz but otherwise the same stating 11 if injuries permit. Diakite MOM for me, yes he made mistakes but he doesn't hide, he is a very strong runner with the ball and he is still adjusting to this team and this league.

And what about all the feint-hearted among'st us who left at 0-2. Still never mind I'm sure you beat the traffic so you could watch MOTD.
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dixiedean added 11:08 - Mar 22

after 25 mins of his scandalous 'performance' I was demanding Barton be sub'd at half time ( if not before). After 47 mins when he shanked a cross into Loft Upper it was even more obvious. He was so bad I wondered if thee was spot betting going on about how low his pass completion % could go. When Hughes finally summoned up the balls to take him off it lifted the crowd and the team. Surely there's a message there ? I don't like seeing people jeered off ( even though I can't stand Barton and never will) so why not do it at half time when there's a natural break. You don't need coaching badges to see he was/is awful. Oh Ale Faurlin how we need you !
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HollowayRanger added 11:22 - Mar 22

Good to finally see hughes has seen the light theres still a role for swp and barton but they have to earn it not just turn up.Derry should be captain and full marks to mackie his energy gives the team and fans such a lift.
What ever happens now we have two great memories lets hope theres more to come!
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BasingstokeR added 18:14 - Mar 24

I could have stomached a loss against Sunderland after hearing they've not lost many at all at home all season. But the manner of the loss and especially Cisse's sending off is the thing that's making me feel sick...how near fitness is Helguson and does Dj Campbell actually still exist?
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JonDoeman added 18:43 - Mar 24

Sunderland at home I first thought we were going down.
Sunderland away, I'm sure of it.
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newgolddream added 19:26 - Mar 24

Disappointing yet again today. The results at Anfield and The Reebok really rubbed it in. The marking for the opening goal was shocking, Diakite having to be taken off with another yellow card and of course Cisse keeping up his 100% record in five matches (3 goals and 2 red cards). Was thrilled with the win on Wednesday night and still am but let's be honest Liverpool are not even Europa League standard and questions have to be asked about Kenny Dalglish's future at the club. However that's not our problem and we are currently 2/7 to drop to the championship. The Gunners next week and then on to the Theatre of Screams. Four points maybe??????
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SW17_RRR added 20:27 - Mar 24

Cisse Player rating = -1,000,000,000
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MelakaRanger added 00:29 - Mar 25

Dire again. Defence, midfield and attack - dire.

Cisse out until April 21st! What a waste - and on full pay whilst missing 7 games! If he wants to make it up to us then he needs to stay and take the Chmapionship by storm next year and maybe as our Captain?

The table doesnt lie though, no matter how we feel.

On this showing we will be lucky to get another point before season end.

But no point moaning any more, lets just putour trust in TF & MH to make it right over teh summer and to make sure next season is a winning season.

Hopefully we will be back and a much stronger force come August 2013?



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NigelWatson added 10:27 - Mar 25

Jordan wasn't interested. He did not want to run for the ball. JLAA is a fan's favourite - I don't know why! He looks like a footballer, however, he can't play: no footballing brain. He definitely should have crossed for Jones. Tutte played well - he's mobile and he looks like he enjoys playing football. The two centre halves are class. The keeper did nothing wrong, so, Dale were effectively playing with 4 players. McConville looked out of his depth at this level. Kennedy did nothing - a passenger. Jones tried hard, but he's clearly out of form, but unlike the likes of Jordan and Kennedy, at least he tried. A major clear out is needed this summer. I would have thought that many of these guys will struggle to find new League 1, or even L2 clubs, e.g. Kennedy, Jordan, Symes (was he playing????) You would have thought that they would have tried harder to win a contract. Weird.
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AGEREPC01 added 14:16 - Mar 25

I think overall I agree with most: Losing at Sunderland is hardly a suprise. But the other results were a huge suprise.

-Wigan winning....The thing I would point to is Sterling's debut and second Daglish!Sterling looked great. adel did you see? Rasheem, ran, tackled and exposed the Left side. Adel certainly has played like that before and should look to use his skill this way. ...daglish's support for Henderson and Downing over Shelvey and Sterling could put him in the dog house.

-We all thought Blackburn was on their way to safety. Now its back to basics with all 5 bottom teams looking like going to the wire.

- QPR: MH STILL has no formula. Paddy is not a shot stopper. There is no consistency in defense. Luke was exposed indefence, Anton does not control his space and the defensive midfield is badly missing ali. Makie was again shown as a better sub than starter. Hopefully HH and DJ can comeback. and JB is rested. Given the Arsenal game I would go all defense! Cerny, Onuhu at RB, Gabby and Anton paired at CB (hopefully for the season run in), with derry & samba, JB and Adel/Akos Plus HH and Zam. I'd keep mac and SWP as subs.are HH and zam the same? Maybe but HH scores goals and gives a height presence at set pieces.
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e1337prodigy added 17:59 - Mar 25

" Given the Arsenal game I would go all defense!" no way, the way our defense is playing we will be lucky to survive 10mins. Arsenal have to much pace; Persie, Walcot etc will be easily getting behind our back 4 (if you can call them that; Sunderland's 3rd goal only Anton seemed to be in the 10yard box). Mackie to start up front with Zamora (mackie is a striker not a midfielder, and has similar pace to cisse so should link up well with Zamora's heading on ability, strength and holding up skills). Hopefully Barton can play better now in midfield, with Buszaky, tarrabt and diakite. Back 4, I don't think it matters. They are all useless at the moment.
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geraldo added 20:06 - Mar 25

Looks like JC has lost the plot bringing in rubbish players like Phil Edwards and now McConville just because they once played for Accy. I was all in favour of SE going but the bottom line is that we don't have any decent players - on this form we will struggle in Lge 2 - thanks a lot Dunphy, at least you can look at the balance sheet and smile. As I remember it the prices were put up when we got promoted to " invest in the team" what happened.............??????
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probbo added 20:53 - Mar 25

While I applaud MH for dropping Barton to the bench (should have happened weeks ago) with respect to Anton, I thought he was a strange choice for replacement Captain. I'd have given it to Derry or Tarbs. Not sure if it would have made a huge amount of difference given Cisse's latest indiscretion, but just a view.
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ShotKneesHoop added 21:50 - Mar 25

He could always start with Derry as captain this week, at least you can see him talking to his teammates during the game
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ShotKneesHoop added 21:50 - Mar 25

He could always start with Derry as captain this week, at least you can see him talking to his teammates during the game
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probbo added 21:54 - Mar 25

While I applaud MH for dropping Barton to the bench (should have happened weeks ago) with respect to Anton, I thought he was a strange choice for replacement Captain. I'd have given it to Derry or Tarbs. Not sure if it would have made a huge amount of difference given Cisse's latest indiscretion, but just a view.
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stuartcryer added 20:28 - Mar 28

i agree entirely none of mr colemans signings apart from kevin long seem up to much do we risk our money with this man who doesnt seem to know his starting 11
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newgolddream added 18:12 - Mar 31

Superb win and best performance of the season. Results elsewhere didn't go our way but you can expect that from now on. We've given ourselves a fighting chance and will fear no-one on the run-in. Come on u R's!!
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barryroch added 19:45 - Mar 31

STUNNED
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BeauRanger added 20:06 - Mar 31

Wow....has the penny finally dropped!
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Syke_Dale added 20:22 - Mar 31

Un 'feckin' believable.....
Snatching victory from the jaws of defeat.....
And back again...
Absolutely gutted....
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Ranger78 added 20:33 - Mar 31

Wow!!

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QPRski added 21:21 - Mar 31

At last! A brilliant performance from the whole team and three welcome points. What a pleasant suprise and reward. Well done to all.
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amsterdamsaint added 22:03 - Mar 31

Relax , nothing to worry about - Blackpool had a good day and we had a bad one . I am actually more confident now than before the match .A bad day at the office - Atkins will sort it out on Monday . We will take it out on the Skates . Come on you Saints !
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WestonsuperR added 22:07 - Mar 31

Probably best Performance of the season. Couldn't criticise a single player, just hope it's not too little too late.
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amsterdamsaint added 22:11 - Mar 31

Just remembered - 3 - 0 and we're top of the League with 6 games to go ! COYS !
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MelakaRanger added 22:57 - Mar 31

Finally they play as a 'team' and not only that but a team with belief ! Interesting that Barton didnt take the corners and spot kicks. That game was a joy to watch. we were by far the better team

Almost to a man each played their best of the season - although Onuoha seemed nervous.

Shame about other results not going our way. Boy its gonna be tight in the bottom 4.

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snanker added 23:47 - Mar 31

Jekyll and Hyde R's yet again ! Cracking result in the climate of latest general form. We "outgunned" the current best performing team in the Premiership by miles ! Great save by Paddy from RVP at least we are giving ourselves a decent shout.......now for Man U !!
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Sam_Hoops1 added 02:15 - Apr 1

No less than we deserved. Were the better team for almost the entire game. Great to see Tarbs score and the sheer determination of the old boys Hill and Derry made me proud to be a Ranger again. I also think Zamora's contribution might have been over-looked 'cus he didn't score but he was magnificent today. And finally Barton had a great game too. Every player was 200% better than they were at Sunderland.
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Kaos_Agent added 04:12 - Apr 1

Discipline and marking and perseverance the likes of which have not been seen so far. What a joy to watch. And Paddy's big save may just have saved the season.
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francisbowles added 09:08 - Apr 1

Best performance of the season all played really well but Zamora was fantastic, never stopped winning and holding the ball up, for the midfielders to get forward. Unfortunately, we picked up 5 yellows! How close to a ban is Diakite?

What does Hughes do at Man U, only three days before we play Swansea at home? Put too much into Sunday and it is likely to damage the team for the home game. Hopefully he will have Helguson as a back up for Zamora as I don't think he (Zamora) can play that role for 90 mins twice in three days.

U rrrrrrrrrrr's
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SW17_RRR added 09:19 - Apr 1

the whole team 100/10 ++++++++++++++ A fooking1
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shooters47 added 10:07 - Apr 1

Where the bloody hell did that come from?!!!
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MelakaRanger added 10:54 - Apr 1

200% better than at Sunderland!! More like 1000% better!!!!!!!

Yes next weekend is a dilema. Whatever happens we simply must get 3 points against Swansea, that must be the overriding priority. No good going to Man U, trying to win and losing the game and knackering the team and then not beating Swansea.

Man U will not be underestimating our abilities now, so it will be a tough game. A very tough call for MH.

I would be happy with a low score loss followed by a 2 or 3 goal win against Swansea.

But as always, anything now seems to be possible....
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geraldo added 12:04 - Apr 1

Thought Lucas could have done better with both second and third goals.We don't deserve a lge 1 team if less than 2,500 can be bothered to turn up for a must win game - there was only one crowd smaller in lge 2.
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bishom added 12:34 - Apr 1

Best home performance of the season. Every player put in a shift for once. Thought Zamora run his socks off for the team, Diakite broke up there midfield play and then looked majestic with the ball at his feet. Great finish from Taarabt and great save from Kenny. Well done lads!
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quickpassrotter added 13:22 - Apr 1

Brilliant display all round. Each player knew what his responsibility was. We closed them down so well and didn't let them play. Diakite looks a real athlete - ironically reminded me of a young Viera, and he will only get better.
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macro added 13:27 - Apr 1

Arse
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R_in_Sweden added 14:31 - Apr 1

That's more like it.

Really pleased for Adel! (slightly spoiled by the humourless referee's booking for wearing a fez). Diakite is improving with every game. Derry put in a good shift and Kenny's great save from RVP proved to be vital. Get in there.
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Royboy48 added 15:29 - Apr 1

You must be hurting down in Cannes; always easy to be wise after the event. I have to say I was with you pre-game but having been there – well, two miracles in two weeks! The feelgood factor we all experienced going back to the C and S after the game, I regret to say, would have far surpassed any feelings of well-being in the sunshine of the Cote D'Azur!

Only two sayings come to mind

1.repent at leisure
2. lest we forget, it's the hope that kills you…
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themodfather added 17:06 - Apr 1

the whole team excelled and all are motm for me...kenny has started making the saves and looks back to his best, hill is leading by example...and i admit BARTON had a good game yesterday.
the qpr fans again were the extra man, more v swans and stoke and spuds too!!
come on....
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LostBoys added 19:32 - Apr 1

Just got back absolutely dreadful
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jo_qpr63 added 20:57 - Apr 1

Really pleased for Adel, deserved his goal and hopefully push him on. Still made a couple of mistakes when a simple pass would have done but still learning i suppose. As is Diakite who looked a better player then ive given credit for, and took his goal well. Still a bit rash with some challenges but it was just what we needed and got into Arsenals faces well.All the players stepped up and thats all we can do when the other teams around do the same. Still 3rd from bottom but starting to show the fighting spirit we need to compete at this time of the season.I feel a bit guilty for starting to jump on the negative bandwagon and have a renewed sence of optimism that I'm gonna stick too wether we get hammered at Man u or not. If we can beat this Arsenal team we can beat anybody. C'mon u R's
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pompeypride added 18:16 - Apr 7

Hey why no comments from those tools down the road ? Can't hold a lead at home against us again, good game to watch and a fine example of why this fixture should remain for many years to come, may have to be cup games for a bit though ;-)
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geraldo added 18:20 - Apr 7

Another shocking away result and it's season over - JC continually changes the team and I don't think he has been any better than SE.
We shouldn't assume that we will come straight back up.......
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LostBoys added 18:23 - Apr 7

Another poor performance - it cannot go on any longer
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grampy added 20:14 - Apr 7

Saints effectively playing with 10 men till Guly went off, midfield lacking again today. I am sure the pundits will say a draw was a fair result but that was the most important game at St Mary's since Manchester United sent us down and we blew it.
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Zambucco added 08:58 - Apr 8

umm Pompeypride as this is a forum for Saints fans, technically the 'tools' down the road are Pompey! This site is inhabited by the more enlightened fans and we enjoy banter and not merely throwing insults. An opposition fan's perspective is always more than welcome!
You are correct a great game to watch, there would not be many teams who could hold a lead against 2 fantastic goals like that. It seems you saved your best 2 moments of the season for us, how kind!

Grampy yes I agree Guly was not at his best yesterday, but neither was Ricky, I noticed him bitching at a lot of his team mates yesterday, he wasn't enjoying himself. Glad he finally took a free kick that almost went in.
Gutted that Morgan went off so early, as I like the way he now controls the midfield, but thought Jack Cork raised his game and put in a decent show, Adam was back to his best, Deano was ever reliable. Jose and Jos coped very well. I now see why we paid 31.8m for Billy he's not pretty but oh so effective. I would love to see Fox and Razor push in a few more yards to the byeline before they cross.
I was proud of the whole team, they played against a team who were going to fight all the way, play with pride and make it very very difficult for us.

I am going to miss games like this, they don't happen very often, the atmosphere was buzzing, and for a Derby some great football, mostly by Saints. It's a shame that there is a small hooligan element that would spoil it.
But as NA pointed out, yesterday we gained a point that took us top of the league!
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wedontlikeyou added 12:06 - Apr 8

Lallana 8 Sharp 8 Fatboy Lumpit 4
Davis 7(picked the ball out twice brilliantly)
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Spiritof67 added 15:35 - Apr 8

I didn[t realise that Tom Daily played for MU! Let's hope he goes on to get a gold medal at the Olympics!
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walshy15a added 16:19 - Apr 8

The ref <Bolton man Lee Mason> was a disgrace and ruined the game with a disgraceful sending off an unbelivable decision for a so called Professional,the linesman was just as bad as Young was clearly offside what a pair of T*ssers
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Doughnut added 18:30 - Apr 8

Only to be expected from Fergies henchmen; and one with Bolton sympathies too. Just one in a long list of refereeing outrages, this weekend, that make a mockery of the game.
Hopefully, we can still do the business against Swansea.
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francisbowles added 18:42 - Apr 8

Good decision to rest Zamora, hope the rest are not too knackered for Wednesday. We need that intimidate Loftus Road roar again!
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newgolddream added 19:53 - Apr 8

Proud of the R's 2day and we have now played Liverpool, Everton, Arsenal and Man U and are still out of the relegation zone. Shockin decision to give penalty and send off Derry but what do u expect at the Theatre of Screams? Wigan got the very same treatment at the Bridge yesterday. Its hard enough play the self-appointed best team in the world with 11 men but to have to plough on with a man less alongside incompetent officials really takes the piss. Big week ahead for the club and hopefully more points on the board.
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jo_qpr63 added 20:41 - Apr 8

The ref was a joke(again!). Thought we done ok with 10 men against top of the table Man U. Just cant believe the sending off or the pen. I think MH felt we wasnt going to get anything from the game anyway. We are getting better as a team but still giving the ball away in the wrong areas, and simple passes are going astray. Bring on Swansea.
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grenun added 22:21 - Apr 8

hi dale fans, just reading your managers match report, and im afaraid he is way off the mark saying yeovil were flattered by a 3-1 win. if he thinks he was really in the game at all then you really should be looking to change coleman as soon as possible, because with someone like him in charge,making re marks like that hoping the board and fans belive that tosh he is clutching at straws. best of luck for the battle ahead. will always remember, you were our first opponents in the football laegue,hope to be playing against you again next season in league 1.
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MelakaRanger added 00:15 - Apr 9

Yes the ref was conned by a cheater - yet again and we suffered for it - yet again!

But lets just deal with it and move on

The team did us proud as just 10 men against the 'mighty' Manure. They could easily have given up but they fought and soaked up so much pressure, yet we only lost 2 nil. A great result all things considered.

Taarabt was at his normal showboating best, often throwing his arms up when giving the ball away/not getting the ball. And once again he chose to try and be clever rather than hoofing the ball out of harms way! That cost us the 2nd goal and undid much of the good work of the previous 40 mins or so.

Every week we are getting better and roll on Swansea!
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snanker added 02:21 - Apr 9

The side showed a great spirit & brave effort after such a gutless decision by the ref and non decision by the linesman. Lets hope the game hasn't taken too much physically out of the players as we need to bring that same desire and want to the Swansea game. Anything less wont measure up so lets kick the night off with the Loftus Rd roar and get behind the team from the start. Come on u R'sssssss
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qprmick added 05:51 - Apr 9

Unbelievable, two officials could destroy so many people.
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BeauRanger added 14:18 - Apr 9

Rangers really have been on the end of some atrocious decisions this season & yesterday was yet another example. Probably wouldn't have altered the final result but makes it just that bit harder for any of the 10 men who may have to play again on Wed', which was always going to be the more important of the two games. I just hope any red card appeal from the club for Derry isn't considered frivolous?

Hopefully the title race being effectively over may work in our favour, but vital to take 3 points from the Swans who will be playing with no pressure. A repeat of last seasons 4-0 would be nice!
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themodfather added 18:31 - Apr 9

2-0 away to man utd, playing their 14 v our team was not bad....
very keen stewards added up to a rotten day out...
surely all part of their game plan!?
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LostBoys added 09:10 - Apr 10

Very good performance
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geraldo added 22:40 - Apr 10

Total embarassment after a great start - JC meddled with the defence again and they played like strangers, Byrne is obviously out of his depth
There will need to be a major clear out if we are going to do anything in lge 2
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Shun added 01:18 - Apr 11

Can't believe we had Goodwillie on the bench and we didn't use him! Still, Sheff U could afford to leave Kuyt and Suarez on the bench. I can see them doing well next year.
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D_Dale added 10:19 - Apr 11

Dale players as rated in the Sheffield Star report:

ROCHDALE: Lucas 5, Widdowson 5, Amankwaah 5, Kennedy 6, Jones 5, Symes 5, Tutte 6, Holden 5, Obadeyi 6, Byrne 5, Akpa Akpro 6.
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snanker added 01:58 - Apr 12

Great fighting ballsy result, got a headache running the points permutations through my scon for the next 5 games for the bottom 5 teams. All have some tough games against top 8 sides but given our current goal difference advantage especially after tonight's win we are in with the some realistic chance now of beating the drop. It has as predicted taken Hughes and his staff about 10 - 12 games to get the right approach and hopefully it will be in the nick of time. Now for the Albion come on U R'sssssssssssssssssssss !!
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qprmick added 02:35 - Apr 12

The irony is that most of those around us have to play Swansea. Hope they play better for the rest of the season.If we play like this the rest of the season we will be staying up for sure, officials permitting.
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MelakaRanger added 09:01 - Apr 12

I didnt think we were as good as against Arsenal but this results proves we have lost that 'losing' habit . Also a clean sheet for once.

This game coming on top of recent performances must really have put the belief back into the team, who once gain played like a team.

We are not safe yet but a win or draw on Saturday and then a win again against Spurs will set us up very nicely for the Scum and Stoke games.

We need fear no one now. There are mores wins in this team yet.
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francisbowles added 11:22 - Apr 12

Another good patient performance. We kept our shape and discipline whilst we waited for the chances to come. Great time to score the first and we came out strong to defend our lead and wait for more chances.

Again whole team played well and did there job within the system. Hughes changed little things like pushing Onuoha forward to reduce the threat of Scott Sinclair running round him, which greatly reduced their threat.

Another good game from Diakite, I particularly like the way he runs with the ball through the opposition when no pass is on and gets us well up the pitch.

Another poor refereeing performance especially in the first half. I think it was nearly 33 mins before we won a decision!

Going forward does Derry come back in for Buz and later on Cisse for Mackie? I think yes to Derry as it is an away match but Cisse might have to start on the bench the week after.

Lets hope Mackie is fit.

We need to make sure we remember the Sunderland away match and put in another great effort on Saturday.
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NorwayRanger16 added 22:26 - Apr 12

Today we and the rest of the league witnessed how to beat the Swans. Tactical masterpiece from Hughes imo. Let them play in their own half, be patient and don't press to high up the pitch. For all their possesion they only created chances from set pieces. When they go behind they don't have an answer do they? You can't score goals rolling the ball between your center halves, and they clearly showed they're weakness when chasing the game.

I'm not denying how vital the timing of Joey's goal was, couldn't have come at a better time. Credit to the fans as well for not losing their patience and start boing. Both fans and players got the reward when Joey belted in the first goal.

Like against United the whole team performed admirebly, difficult to single out any individuals, all scorers took their goals very well, defence faught valiantly.

All in all a massive win. For once we managed to win a 'must win game' that every QPR fan had pinned down as a win. Wigan's win doesn't take the gloss off it for me. Credit to them, well done, we can't have every result going our way. If we do our job we'll stay up end off.
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Kaos_Agent added 04:36 - Apr 13

Good comments all. There does now seem to be a method in the madness and the long-awaited gelling is going well. One well-played away game will do wonders too. Their confidence is on the up and up.
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winchesterbob added 00:09 - Apr 14

Kelvin Davis must have thought he was back at Sunderland! The back four were shocking. Three mistakes three goals conceded. This underlined what Nick had to say just a few weeks ago, if we go up we need a new defence and a new defencive coach. Their first was a carbon copy of Pompey's second last weekend. Fox not only gave the ball away but was outplayed by Kebe twice for two goals, and the shambles of the last goal was pure comedy.

It's no good having the ball for most of the game if you can't put it in the onion sack, or you leak like a string vest at the back.

Nine points still to play for, COYR
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LostBoys added 09:00 - Apr 14

Wasteful up front and shocking at the back - I have seen better defending in the Tyro
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jonrog added 10:09 - Apr 14

We were mugged and if you walk down a street known for muggers you need to keep a good look out for them.

On the SFC site Butterfield says that if the play like that then we will get promoted. Play like that in defence and we will not get another point
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BlackAngel added 13:07 - Apr 14

It seems to me that whilst Saints have been practising their passing, other teams e.g. Pompey & Reading, have been practising putting the ball in the back of the net.

Still, what's done is done. Still 9 points to play for!

COYR's!!!
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saintandy11 added 13:19 - Apr 14

My worry is this, last night Fonte could not handle Roberts who is not good enough to play in a team that looks like it will be relegated.
When we get promoted how on earth is he going to handle the quality strikers who play in the prem? Even Torres would do well if Fonte was on him.
I think that Hooive would be ok and Martin looks a good squad player but if we don't get in some decent starting central defenders we are in for a very long season next year.
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grampy added 14:57 - Apr 14

Harding must have watched that last night and wondered where the hell he went wrong, made the players team of the season last season but has had to sit and watch Fox make so many very basic errors which proved to be so costly.

End of season shopping list for starters, promoted or not.... 2 full backs, a centre back ( Fonte wont survive in the premiership on his current form) and a winger with real pace. Oh and ball distribution lessons for Davis please.
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newgolddream added 17:29 - Apr 14

Very disappointing result. Unbelievable amount of possession and Ben Foster never tested. We're evens with the bookies to go down with Blackburn and Wolves. The Man City fixture could be a massive game for both sides after today's results. Hopefully we can we can win both our home matches and stay in the EPL.
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newgolddream added 18:04 - Apr 14

Very disappointing result. Unbelievable amount of possession and Ben Foster never tested (second half). We're evens with the bookies to go down with Blackburn and Wolves. The Man City fixture could be a massive game for both sides after today's results. Hopefully we can we can win both our home matches and stay in the EPL.
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SuddenLad added 19:00 - Apr 14

I didn't see Dirk Kuyt or Craig Bellamy on the bench, but as it turned out we didn't need to call on their services. Are they on trial, or were they just guests of the club ?
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francisbowles added 19:43 - Apr 14

Unfortunately, I think it was one of those days. I thought that, like at Man U, Kenny having got to the shot should have done better. Zamora unlucky more than once. We looked comfortable until they scored but were not great after. WBA played well and nothing much went for us. We tried hard but to little effect.

At least it was only 1-0, can't fault the effort and Swansea beat B'burn 3-0.

Hopefully, we are saving our away form for Chel****

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onedalefan added 21:08 - Apr 14

Today sums up everything that makes you a true Dale fan. 75 minutes where you wonder why you bother and then 15 minutes that make it all worthwhile.
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MelakaRanger added 00:03 - Apr 15

I thought WBA were very average and we were just poor. No drive, no urgency and Adel far too casual. They didnt look like a team fighting for their lives. Very disappointing indeed

Then when SWP came on I knew we were doomed to lose. He is a complete waste.

Repeating this type of peformance will bring zero points, its simply not good enough. Hopefully MH will get the grit back into the team for next weeks game.



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AGEREPC01 added 07:35 - Apr 15

I thought Buz would play. We were TOOO defensive minded. We came to get a point. ASt lerast buz should have been on at half time, possibly HH for Mackie.
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Vanwho added 08:48 - Apr 15

Fonte had no aggression in his play, very sloppy and too casual at the back. Same for Fox.
No way can you bring up Davis distribution. It was first class on Friday night, he rolled it out with pace from the back and his kicks reached lambert pretty much everytime (ridiculous comment)
steve played well when he came on, Guly didn’t make an impact but not a lot of time given and the comments around the ground were negative before he even touched a ball. I think he needs to feel loved so let’s encourage with the last 3 games. Since the Guly haters started his form has dropped, can’t be coincidence. As winchesterbob said, 3 mistakes and 3 goals. simple as that. jos, could have had a hatrick on corners as well. Frustrating yes, but lets not let negativity creep in, all to play for still. COYR's!
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walshy15a added 14:01 - Apr 15

We deserved a point at the very least,its a funny old game ,NOT!
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Shun added 14:35 - Apr 15

Dirk Kuyt was playing against us last week! What a traitor!
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icehorsestud added 13:07 - Apr 16

Agree with Grampy. Aaron martin must wonder if he is ever going to get on as well. I would have used him as the last sub to bolster the middle of the defence - then we gave away the second goal. NA seems to have his favourites and plays them regardless of what most of us can see. Fox is just not good enough - stands off too long and allows the cross. Guly is totally out of his depth at the moment. Either NA did not feel the need to increase the forward line when we were 2-1 down or Guly did not follow instructions. He wandered around the middle, never going forwards. If Guly is on the bench as a forward, he should be replaced by Lee Barnard. Fonte and Hoov have been excellent all season so the occasional mare is allowed. Lambert brillant in his distribution. Sharpe is getting better and was unlucky not to get a run. Lallanda is frustrating. Why does he feel the need to double back and beat his man a second and third time rather than attack the box? De Ridder has dazzle but end product not quite there. There are too many long lofted balls and not enough penetrating passes thru the middle, which used to tear opposition apart. Shame about Tadanari.
If we don't go up, we only have ourselves top blame. should have beaten Pompey and should not have lost to Reading. Still hopeing but getting worried.
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derbyhoop added 13:49 - Apr 16

Nobody was that bad but we needed inspiration and, clint hill excepted, nobody supplied that.
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geraldo added 16:11 - Apr 16

Joey T scored a great goal but I struggle to see how he can be MOM
The player who has consistently performed is JK and unfortunately I don't think he will be here next season.
However good the last 15 mins were we shouldn't forget how bad the first 75 had been and what a pigs ear JC made with his choice of defenders.
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pedrodale added 20:28 - Apr 16

Cant argue with that Geraldo but thats how weve performed under mr eerie and Chris Beech 15/20 mins per game
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D_Dale added 18:37 - Apr 21

A scrappy affair, which Dale should have won. Chesterfield's goals were their only efforts on target (apart from a late shot parried by Edwards). Not for the first time this season, it could have been very different, and not for the first time it wasn't.

In the second minute Jones's perseverence put him through with only Lee to beat: he shot across the face of the goal. Then there was an hour of misdirected passes in which Dale fought hard for the ball but did little when they got it. A delected Dale shot hit the bottom of the post, about ten minutes before, out of the blue, came Akpa Akpro's goal. He advanced unchallenged to the edge of the are before drilling a low shot inside Lee's left post. Soon after Tutte had a good chance to make it two, but Lee got down well to save.

As Chesterfield got more desperate, Whitaker who came on as a sub helped to push back a Dale defence that couldn't seem to find Dale players and two quick, scrappy goals followed. Hard to believe Chesterfield still have a chance to avoid relegation. If they do,there's the compensation of not having to return to their draughty characterless stadium.
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phomem added 19:12 - Apr 21

Steve morison and Aaron Wilbrahan have signed I see
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phomem added 19:13 - Apr 21

Steve morison and Aaron Wilbrahan have signed I see
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newgolddream added 20:52 - Apr 21

Fantastic win and another clean sheet. We r fighting 4 our lives and winning at the moment. Very proud 2 b an R 2day.
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antoknee64 added 21:57 - Apr 21

Not worried about Chelscum or Manureshity,bet we loose to Spoke.
Seriously great team performance today,even if that tw@t Kluntanberg was gainst us it was great to see Barton,Derry & Hill giveing him a hard time.
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HollowayRanger added 21:57 - Apr 21

Wow what a win all hands to the pumps all 12-14,000 of us!

i hope to god parker isnt england captain he tried to get onuoha sent off (already on a yellow) parker did a ashley young and thankfullly the ref saw it and YET still didnt book him ,that incedent turned the crowd and team against him
brilliant win it doesnt save us but it means we live to fight another day!

fingers crossed spurs now have to and do beat blackburn and bolton

motm hughes!

christ i hope crouch dont send us down!
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quickpassrotter added 22:14 - Apr 21

Brilliant all round performance. Have already posted how poor Clattenburg was today. How could he not book Parker for diving and for Bale for physically going into the crowd to try and get the ball !
Our support today was outstanding. Need to keep all this going for last 3 games. Still touch and go.
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MelakaRanger added 23:44 - Apr 21

Great team display. No weak link in the team today.

A very important win that keeps the dream alive.

Has Zamora got a 'thing' about having a go at goal. He has seemed very reluctant to 'have a go' in recent games?
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sidsaint added 23:45 - Apr 21

Very disappointed after Reading's draw and our goal in first minute, which meant the Championship looked on. Surprised we let them back in so easily after our goal when we should have put the pressure on. Hines should have gone after the trip on Lallana. But in the end I think they wanted it more. Feel sorry for the excellent Saints fans who were brilliant yet again.
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LostBoys added 00:31 - Apr 22

Unprintable dire in a number of positions,
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jo_qpr63 added 02:10 - Apr 22

Looking solid at the back. Kenny made some great saves and the midfield just kept it simple. Mackie had a great game again. I couldnt workout why Taarabt got sent off but just seen MOTD and thats cleared that up! Apparently your supposed to stand like musical statues when the ref blows the whistle!?. Bit to quick to get the cards out, considering Spurs was trying to get one of our players booked at that time, which was blatant. Great win and the 'Any given sunday' montage b4 the game was a good touch.
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snanker added 02:15 - Apr 22

The recent will & desire to remain a Premiership contender continues to be evident among all involved in this battle for survival at the club.Its making me proud to be an R's supporter seeing plenty of backbone especially these last couple of months. Everyone writing R's of has really instilled a sense of us against them and given the lads great impetus to produce and believe. It aint over yet by a long stretch but we continue to strive to get the required points........with the old enemy next in the firing line !
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francisbowles added 10:30 - Apr 22

Good solid performance, ref soft on Spurs tough on Rrrr's. Mackie mom for me, gave him 9 would've been a 10 if he was more aware of when he is standing offside. (should be simple when playing wide). Zamora also guilty of this. Leaving aside the picky bits, Kenny superb and Hill again inspired and inspiring. Whole team marvelous. Time to get an away result!
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JonDoeman added 11:16 - Apr 22

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saintandy11 added 20:28 - Apr 22

A very poor performance right across the board. On the coach back, when i was asked for my man of the match i had to think hard about who played well. Deano seemed to be afraid of making a tackle. Adam & Jack gave the ball away far too easily. Billy was pushed off the ball far to often and that has to be the worst performance Rickie has put in. He put more effort into shouting at his team-mates than mixing it with the defenders.
Still that's dead and gone. It's in our hands and irrespective of what West Ham do in their next two games we just need to score one more goal than Coventry. We can still do this.
COYR.
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dazhoopa added 20:37 - Apr 22

amazing support at the game and great team perfomance under strain of terrible refereing.I really think the new players are coming good and look like their enjoying playing for us now here's hoping we stay up so we can see diakite and faurlin play together that would be really something u rssssss
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legod7 added 14:52 - Apr 28

No need for a match report. Give every player 10 out 10 the same as me.
Simples
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landsdownsaint added 15:38 - Apr 28

Guly & Schniederline were the difference Nick!
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landsdownsaint added 15:42 - Apr 28

Did you all see the class of Guly today?I bet he still gets a load of negativity from Saints fans!
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pedrodale added 18:28 - Apr 28

Just seen the player ratings for this match, whoever posted them wasnt at the game today just like the players who did'nt want to be there either.
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patred added 19:04 - Apr 28

A very professional conclusion to the season..
Coventry (thus W.Ham) never got a chance to cause an upset.

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SingaporeSaint added 20:34 - Apr 28

Solid performance but we were fairly lethargic in midfield until Cork came on.. Cork's ability on the ball changed the game and it suddenly looked like we had an extra player...

Guly did well as did the Central defenders and being critical Fox will need to close down players if he is going to play in the prem..

All in all a proud day to be a Saint - fantastic to see the Liebherr tributes around the ground and was awesome to be on the pitch at the end... We really are Premier League...
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winchesterbob added 11:43 - Apr 29

Good alround display, Kelvin made a couple of top draw saves, Fonte had one of his best game this season, and it was good to see Adam Lallana get on the score sheet. Saints back in the big league and my head hurts this morning............
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London_Pride added 15:42 - Apr 29

Sorry but this is down to Mark Hughes. it was wrong to put Cisse as a winger in a 4-5-1. It was not the right formation for the rainy conditions and It was even worse to continue with it when it obviously wasn't working. Complete humiliation as a result.
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Harbour added 15:55 - Apr 29

terrible day at least i only had to endure cheshit abuse in the pub felt for the rs fans at SB.. worst performance of the season even bolton h and fulham a better... champinship here we come sad to say.. defense poor midfield non existent up front woeful...where was the fight
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newgolddream added 16:12 - Apr 29

Would have settled for 1-6 after the first 25 mins massacre as it looked like double figures at that stage. Shockin result however and our goal difference advantage is all but gone and we still have to go to City. Must beat Stoke (handsomely) and hope Bolton and Blackburn collapse on the home straight. Come on u R's.
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newgolddream added 16:14 - Apr 29

Would have settled for 1-6 after the first 25 mins massacre as it looked like double figures at that stage. Shockin result however and our goal difference advantage is all but gone and we still have to go to City. Must beat Stoke (handsomely) and hope Bolton and Blackburn collapse on the home straight. Come on u R's.
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jfk added 16:15 - Apr 29

Didn't expect anything out of the game, but disappointing we didn't even make a contest of it. I thought a few players had some good moments - Derry got some good challenges in, Barton looked up for it, Traore too when he came on - but we just kept giving the ball away so cheaply and Chelsea were really in the mood to punish us when we did. I love Buzaky, but he had a shocker. Still need the 3 points against Stoke, and a Spurs result today would be nice too (but unlikley, the way my day's going)
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probbo added 16:27 - Apr 29

My most optimistic best case scenario was an unlikely draw today but that went out the window as soon as we conceded after 45 secs. The first half display was similar to Spurs away, only one team in the game, unable to string two passes together, giving Chelsea all the space they needed to attack at will. At least the second half was a bit 'better' but a humiliating defeat all round. Desperately hoping we get a result against Stoke and results elsewhere go in our favour.
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francisbowles added 16:29 - Apr 29

Bad start, Sturridge got a bit of luck with the rebound but a great finish then HW misses the accused racist climbing all over Hill. Then we were not even on the pitch until about 30 mins had gone. Hill and Derry made to look like average Championship players through lack of pace and for a long time we were dominated in the air as well.

Agree with London Pride, Cisse totally out of it until he very belatedly moved up front, if we were going to play 451 then it had to be Traore on the left.

Need a new approach next week 451 has now been found out and Stoke will just knock it high and log to Crouch anyway.

Hopefully Diakite will be fit, we really missed him and Tarabt today. We let them play to Torres strengths. How about 4231 with same back four, Diakite and Barton holding Mackie, Cisse and Tarabt with Zamorra up top. We need Zam for his height in defensive set plays.

Referee ok but why was Barton the only yellow? Hill and Derry should have joined him. Essien's tackle looked like a red and the accused racist slid in later on with both feet raised as well!

I'm a Spurs fan until Wednesday night!
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jo_qpr63 added 17:17 - Apr 29

Thought the ref was good...
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Doughnut added 18:21 - Apr 29

Yet another full blooded kick between the legs! Hope Man U. beat city, and give them nothing to play for, or we're finished. Can't believe I just said that! But thats what supporting this lot does to you.
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BeauRanger added 19:44 - Apr 29

Lampard was offside for the 1st goal.....but I will have to come back to you for excuses for the other 5???

Of all teams why oh why this lot..
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komradkirk added 22:16 - Apr 29

a sub only on the pitch 24 minutes leading the man of the match ratings
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MelakaRanger added 22:17 - Apr 29

Truely awful performance by everyone.

Hughes got the team, tactics and formation 100% wrong

At 4 nil I was expecting Chelsea to score 10!

Time now to move on and learn from the mistakes made

Got to win big time against Stoke and hope that Bolton & Blackburn implode. Not that likely but who knows.
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MelakaRanger added 06:29 - Apr 30

Just revisited this page and find that the average star score for players has been between 2 and 3 stars. The current MOM is Traore who only played 24 mins and has a score currently of less than 5 stars.

Says it all really.
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smegma added 09:13 - Apr 30

Spineless and gutless performance on the pitch. Clueless performance from the manager and his so called tactics.
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AshteadR added 09:22 - Apr 30

That was a living nightmare. Playing Cisse on the left clearly wasnt working but we were 6 down before e changed it. Lots of rhetoric from the players recognising how much this game means to the fans - and then they produce the worst performance of the season. What an absoulte shocker. They should all be fined a week's wages to pay for all us mugs who paid £50+ to witness it.
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newgolddream added 16:11 - May 6

CISSE is the name of the game in the Premiership at the moment. Fantastic result and news from The Reebok gives us an outstanding chance of staying up. Next Sunday at Eastlands will be awesome. U R's!!!
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BeauRanger added 18:08 - May 6

Merci Cisse!!
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MelakaRanger added 23:51 - May 6

Talk about leaving it late!

At 88 mins I had us in the Championship. Then Cisse scores. Then WBA equalise! Two minutes that hopefully have saved our season .
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Kaos_Agent added 06:11 - May 7

Lord of the Manor of Frodsham? Lord of the Manor of Loftus, more like. The red cards are forgotten now mate. What a finish.
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snanker added 08:46 - May 7

One minute your having a heart attack the next your singing for joy at the top of your lungs ! My ticker can't take much more. So close............................but are the R's still capable of contriving to snatch defeat from the jaws of victory me wonders ? It will require a herculean effort (and lots of luck) to keep City at bay next weekend and I just hope we didn't use up all our good fortune yesterday ? Death or glory..........
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AshteadR added 09:01 - May 7

What a great pair of results and what a celebration in The Green after!
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Cassie12 added 12:23 - May 7

Heart stopping stuff at W12 yesterday. Will b much of the same at Eastlands on Sunday. QPR will take off if we can survive next weekend. Thought ref was good yesterday and not a card in sight. What odds on 5-in-a-row when Liverpool were 2 goals clear at Loftus Road?

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smegma added 13:07 - May 7

Our perseverance paid off eventually as it looked gloomy with 88 minutes on the clock. Great effort by all the team to get the 3 points and end the season with a home win for the first time since we relegated Florist seven years ago. To finish the season with 5 home wins and a draw at home may keep us in this grotty league. Just think , if we'd turned once away from home since beating Sjoke 5 months ago we'd already be safe. Can't wait for Sunday in a perverse sort of way.
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e1337prodigy added 20:28 - May 7

Me and dad screamed our heads off when Cisse scored, and then I said "all we need now is West Brom to equalise", then the next thing we heard on the radio was "West Brom 2-Bolton 2". Dad was to busy chewing nails to hear it. However, that 1 point could still save Bolton. All they need is a win and we are doomed; I can't see us winning away to Man City with them chasing the title that they haven't won for nearly 40 odd years. Draw and I think we are safe but doubtful we will get that either. We just hope Crouch and Stoke do us a favour and beat Bolton; although even that is going to be difficult.
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Rainhamrangers added 20:40 - May 7

Wot a fantastic time to score the winner.
with 88 minute played & looking like we
was going back to the championship early.
Heart stopping moments.
Cissie is a top finisher.

And well done to west brom for coming back from 2-0 down.
To get a 2-2 draw.

And give us hope for the future.

Come on u r'sssssssssssssss.
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francisbowles added 09:33 - May 8

Great effort and solid performance, didn't get much from ref who I thought was very poor (Zamora and Mackie constantly pulled and pushed and sandwiched with nothing given, several tackles through the back not given) I thought it was going to be one of those days and then Ferdinand who had just messed up a header puts one into the path of 'that man' who ghosts in and finishes with certainty.

I keep thinking if only he had played those seven games! But then Mackie might have lost his place and he has been excellent in the home wins.

Stoke certainly didn't roll over on Sunday, hopefully they will put the same effort in and get an early goal to settle their fans. With that hostile backing it will hopefully push them on to end their bad run whilst making it very difficult for Bolton.

Another week of mood swings, bring on Sunday, lets get this sorted! Come on Stoke! and come on u rrrrr's.
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dermyqpr added 18:25 - May 13

Speechless. Cannot believe what I have just witnessed. JB is such a tool. Less said the better but we were magnificant. Would have been cruel on City and far too good for Utd. Stoke did what we needed them to do so enough said. Premiership next season, job done. Bit of a clearout (yes Joey!) and lets do better next season. UuuuuuuuuuuurrrrrrrRRRRSSSSSS!!
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BeauRanger added 18:27 - May 13

Tevez should have sent 0ff as well & Barton should now better to retaliate & then go quickly & quietly (Derry @ Man U)once he got the red.

Mission accomplished though & we would all have settled for that at the start of the season. Perhaps some justice though over the disallowed "goal" @ Bolton?

Very interesting decisions for Mark Hughes now in re-shaping the squad. Onwards & Upwards...

thanks to all @ LFW for all the great articles this season

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probbo added 18:50 - May 13

It's quite ironic that City won the game in five minutes of 'Fergie time' - there was no way that five minutes should have been added on at the end.

That said it was an immense display by the 10 R's - that rearguard action for the last 25 minutes of normal time was the best i've seen, even topped England's vs Argentine in France 1998. Such is the fickle nature of football and being a supporter, I'm totally elated we're staying up but feel slightly robbed we didn't at least get the draw we deserved. They were all superb.

At this stage i have 4 hopes for next season:

- that Barton has played his last match for QPR - what a tool!
- we get the 'old' club crest back and wider hoops on the shirts and a decent awaty kit.
- LFW continues to flourish
- we don't have to endure something like this again.

Tonight we celebrate - U R'sssssss!!
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storm1959 added 18:52 - May 13

So proud of my beloved QPR. I want Jamie Mackie's baby!!! and I'm a guy!!! lol. Yes, we are staying up but sorry, something needs to be done about Barton. He played so well before he got sent off but then goes and loses his head AGAIN!!! Would like to know what Mark Hughes is going to do about him in the closed season. But again, so proud of QPR today - 10 heroes..because I'm leaving out Barton.
COME ON UUUUUUUUURRRRRRRRRRSSSSSS!!!!!!!
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francisbowles added 19:03 - May 13

Thanks Clive, a memorable season for all sorts of reasons. Great performance today, so close to getting something with 10 men. All came right in the end! As for JB I think we may be stuck with him as he has a contract and who else is going to take him?
What a goalscorer Cisse is and I think Mackie shut his eyes and sent Hart the wrong way! Sorry that Adel didn't get on the pitch and hope he stays next year, also, need to sign Diakite and Taiwo.

We are staying UP!
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R_in_Sweden added 19:20 - May 13

Probbo

Agree with your points apart from the hoops, quite like them as they are. And it would be great to revert to the old Hammersmith badge with the three horseshoes from the late sixties/early seventies. We've got to get rid of our silly, generic crest with Flavios hair in the middle of it

Totally drained after today. F*ck the Euros, roll on next season!

You R's!!!!!
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Doughnut added 19:41 - May 13

I'm Loftforwords!!!! All's well that ends well!
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e1337prodigy added 21:21 - May 13

Wow, can't believe it. Amazing that we defended so well and to be leading 2-1, I believe the same when we played Man City at home and if I remember correctly they got 2 late goals that day too. We deserved to get something out of both City games as they all played great. I don't even know what happened with JB, Tevez just fell over from what I could see (not seen any highlights so will watch MOTD tonight and watch in more detail there). Hardly worth a red though, but that is our luck though. He was wrong to act up like he usually does after he got the red though.

Both great goals from Cisse and Mackie, we weren't going to get many chances at Etihad and they took the chances well.

Anyone seen Tony Fernandes' interview on BBC, what announcement is he going to give? hopefully new training ground? and then we can finally work on that damn passing!!
new stadium plans?

Not sure how many away fans went, but well done to them, could hear them chanting.

Thanks LFW for great articles.

Looking forward to summer and next season. Get rid of the deadwood and welcome back Faurlin and hopefully some new faces. Diakite needs to be signed.

Cmon you R's.
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RBLOCKPAT added 21:55 - May 13

Watched it all happen on Sky and we were magnificent. I was raging but not surprised that Sky didnt once show our fans or players after the match finished we were totally ignored. They wont ignore us next season though I think we will now go from strength to strength. Hopefully Joey Barton will get a 36 match ban for next season. I am so proud of the boys even though I watched most of the game through my fingers, ten games ago we were staring at the Championship Hughes is a real leader and I cannot wait for next season.
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RBLOCKPAT added 21:56 - May 13

Watched it all happen on Sky and we were magnificent. I was raging but not surprised that Sky didnt once show our fans or players after the match finished we were totally ignored. They wont ignore us next season though I think we will now go from strength to strength. Hopefully Joey Barton will get a 36 match ban for next season. I am so proud of the boys even though I watched most of the game through my fingers, ten games ago we were staring at the Championship Hughes is a real leader and I cannot wait for next season.
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jo_qpr63 added 22:23 - May 13

I thought the same Rblock. Given it was also one our most important games in our history but hey ..pleased it was city and not united.
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walshy15a added 22:35 - May 13

Well said Probbo and yes Bellend of the year goes to the Tweet Barton !
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HamptonR added 23:32 - May 13

Great display, great effort and wonderful that we are staying up.

Let's not all become Alan Shearer (self confessed Barton hater)Barton tangled with Tevez, the linesman couldn’t see anything other than Barton clumping him (why?) from that point on Barton feels aggrieved and loses his head.
If Tevez had thrown a punch at me I would clump the little shit.
Sad that he couldn't keep his composure but he was off from the moment that Tevez fell down clutching his throat.

"36 Match bans" and "something needs to be done about Barton" ???????? Rubbish!
He has been sent off twice for us, both times after being assaulted (unnoticed) by the officials and both times cost or potentially cost us the match but he is hardly the uncontrollable nutter that he is made out to be, or appeared to be in the past.

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HamptonR added 23:45 - May 13

Great display, great effort and wonderful that we are staying up.

Let's not all become Alan Shearer (self confessed Barton hater)Barton tangled with Tevez, the linesman couldn’t see anything other than Barton clumping him (why?) from that point on Barton feels aggrieved and loses his head.
If Tevez had thrown a punch at me I would clump the little shit.
Sad that he couldn't keep his composure but he was off from the moment that Tevez fell down clutching his throat.

"36 Match bans" and "something needs to be done about Barton" ???????? Rubbish!
He has been sent off twice for us, both times after being assaulted (unnoticed) by the officials and both times cost or potentially cost us the match but he is hardly the uncontrollable nutter that he is made out to be, or appeared to be in the past.

MOTD: Yohan Cabaye has apologised for his part in getting Cahill sent off, so Mr Lineker and friends ignore the incident, which was violent conduct.
Had Tevez said sorry I very much doubt that they would have ignored the Barton red card.
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LancsBushRs added 23:56 - May 13


MADNESS!!!!!
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newgolddream added 23:59 - May 13

Congratulations to all concerned. So proud of Queens Park Rangers FC tonight and wasn't it great to see last season's heroes play a vital role in keeping us in the EPL. Had a gut feeling that Cisse's late goal last week would ulitmately save us and so it proved. Looking forward to next season already.
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Kaos_Agent added 05:53 - May 14

All credit to the ironclad defense! Finally played like they did at home, allowing no time or space. In a strange way I think Our Joey's brain cramp may have stiffened their resolve. And thank you Stoke!!!!!
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snanker added 08:42 - May 14

How did we get away with that ! Ten games from the end of the season and we were cactus. Half time at City and we were down. Proud as punch to be an R's supporter and loads of opposition fans I know seemed genuinely happy we avoided the drop. J.B.....well the penny will never drop in his scon, what a dopey SOB ! Leave it up to Hughes to sort him out once and for all. Now for a real squad sort out and a new era of achievement. Cant wait for t all to begin again in August. U Rrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr's
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HastingsRanger added 09:56 - May 14

Tremendous performance and they deserved to get something out of it. Shame that it relied on Bolton's failure.

As for next season, I cannot see how they can build a team to accommodate Barton. There is no point having a key player who jeopardises the team in a game, followed by the resulting 3 game bans. A midfield of Traore, Faurlin, Derry and Diakite has to be better. Barton to see out his contract on loan?

Thanks Clive and the LFW team for all your work. It really keeps me in touch for the the games I cannot be at!

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Dennick added 13:02 - May 14

What a game, I guess the result was what we anticipated congratulations to those who represented QPR with such a big effort . Clint Hill and Jamie Mackie my joint MOM but really with one disappointing exception i think they all did us proud.
My nerves need a summer break but looking forward to next season already.
City deserved their title and we deserved to stay up, justice all round.
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derbyhoop added 13:22 - May 14

Brilliant atmosphere. Nail biting entertainment. Drama to the last. And we survive on the back of a result elsewhere. Who wrote the script?
Congratulations to city. The best side won the league. Many shook our hands on the way out. Not sure if that would have happened if the whistle had gone at 2-2.
1 sour note was Barton. Sure, Tevez started it, but no excuse for the reaction.4 game ban for 2nd red card of the season. Another ban for the assault on Ager and another for nutting Kompany. He could and should miss half the season. Can qpr dismiss him for gross misconduct?
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Doughnut added 13:36 - May 14

Mackie has to be Player of the season for me. Through thick and thin (and there's been a lot of thin!) he's been up for it. Much as I'm not a JB fan, he has been sent off no more than Cisse, and both times with massive provocation and outrageous over-reaction on the part of Tevez. As for the kick after - well if you're going to be sent off for nothing, might as well make it worthwhile. Can't believe I defended JB - what a weird weekend. Total congratulations to all the team is in order though.
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Spiritof67 added 19:37 - May 14

QPR owner Tony Fernandes stated after the end of the final game of the season that he believed his team "played like lions" against Man City. Well a much earlier generation of soldiers were believed to be lions led by donkeys, a phrase popularly used to describe the British infantry of World War 1 and a phrase used to condemn the generals who commanded them.

So no prizes for guessing who our donkey was, during a complete moment of madness! He is a very lucky guy; his 5 minutes of indiscipline, potentially coupled with an away win for Bolton and things could have got very ugly outside of the players entrance from those of us who had paid out our hard earned cash to support the team, then seeing it all go down the pan. Not that I would condone any repeat of the unfortunate events at Euston station following the defeat at Bolton. So JB appears to be is upset with some of the views of the presenters on MOTD, maybe it’s best he did not hear some of the comments made on the terraces as we watched him leave the pitch, thinking that it was the final nail in the coffin for the end of the Premiership for the R’s. The only thing I have not heard from our captain, is that he thinks he can walk on water! In any other job he would be out on your ear for gross misconduct.

But what a game and expreriencing a very strange set of emotions during and after the game, what a cool finish from Cisse, witnessing a tremendous backs-to-wall display following Mackie’s goal, hearing the half-time score from the Britannia stadium, a feeling of disappointment that we could not hold for a great away win, hoping Ashley Young would not collect a Premiership winners medal, and at the final whistle just relieved that both sets of supporters got the end result they needed.

At the start of the year when studying the final games of the season, things looked dire, but after the recent run of home wins it was great to be in a position where our team could influence our own survival on the last game of the season. Well done the 10 + subs, a tremendous effort.

Can only hope that during the next three months; prior to the start of next season Mark Hughes will have much more time, than was given to NW, to be able to bring in players who will strengthen the team and take us on the next step of the journey. Give me mid table security as a minimum. I don’t think that the old ticker could take much more; then again, it wouldn’t be QPR would it!

A big thanks to you Clive, for maintaining your spirits during this tough season and providing us with many great match reports, detailing the highs, and too many lows throughout. I assume you may have to buy another new fag packet to write your reports for next season, as the existing one must be looking a little worse for wear. Keep up the good work.
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jdalec added 19:23 - Aug 18

Could have been worse. Thought Dale played well against a team tipped to finish in top 3, very difficult side to breakdown. Think they double up as a basketball team (How many were under 6' ??)
Couple of points.
1- Stop Lillis from taking suicidal short goal kicks. The law of averages dictates that we will concede at least half a dozen needless goals from putting our own defence under pressure like that.
2- Stop Kennedy and co from taking stupid short corners and get that ball into the danger zone ASAP.
3- Would like to see Donnelly start up front in the middle and see what he can do from there
4 - Give Putterill a start ???
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newgolddream added 21:19 - Aug 18

Shell shocked to say the least. Can't believe I've had to bookmark our relegation odds on my PC already. Will however be putting a couple of bob on Swansea to go down at 14/5. Our defence was a train crash after Rob Green gifted the lead to the visitors and despite us dominating the first half-hour, the Swans could have gone further ahead. Overall a shocking performance and Paddy Kenny kept a clean sheet in the Championship today as well. Nothing new there then. However we'll keep the faith and trust that Mark Hughe's new broom will pay dividends in the long run and QPR won't repeat the struggles of last season.
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QPRNZ added 21:58 - Aug 18

No need to panic. Performance not as bad as result - although last 30 minutes were pretty awful after the game was already lost. Thought Park and Diakite were great in 1st half winning the ball back every time. This gave Taraabt plenty of freedom - Hoilett also looked good. I know that Cisse is always liable to score but otherwise he is just not involved in the game. I am not sure that he can play the lone striker effectively.
Typical football - look forward to a game for 3 months and totally deflated after 90 minutes!!
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geraldo added 23:51 - Aug 18

I think I must have been watching a different match to the others who have voted on here.With the exception of Tutte and JK we have a team of players bereft of the basic skills of football - cannot pass the ball, can't take a corner, can't cross.Why has Dunphy let the club sink so low - what happened to the " warchest" he promised.Who is going to score the goals?
Donnelly is not a striker and Cavanagh is a pale imitation of Jonah.I will no doubt attract the usual comments that I am negative - just as I did when I objected to the appointment of Steve Eyre last year and we all know what happened after that ....

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Kaos_Agent added 01:30 - Aug 19

All sorts of questions raised by this result. Midfield was generally a treat to watch but that's about all. No finishing, no defensive organization, and the makings of a goalkeeper controversy. That's an ugly trio. It's a long season and one can only hope that this is a wake-up. So much for the ideal summer run-up.
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MelakaRanger added 08:26 - Aug 19

Lets just forget Saturdays game and move on.

No point having a 'go' as the guys in charge know the seriousness of the situation. It was a breath of fresh air to hear MH on Sky Sports post match interview. He pulled no punches and made no excuses - unlike NW a year ago.

I will keep the faith!
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Dennick added 09:20 - Aug 19

Awful ,just awful, three triers, 8 passengers and a clueless bench
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HamptonR added 10:56 - Aug 19

So much expectation and optimism.

I thought it was obvious (from very early on) that we needed to have two strikers.
We started the second half by pushing more players into their half but that just left us light at the back.

Credit to Swansea, they were clinical in front of goal.
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headhoops added 11:39 - Aug 19

Until Green gifted them the lead with what was their first real attack we looked in control. , park, tarbs, hoilet and samba were our best players on the day. Once the goal went in I would have changed our formation to two upfront straight away. Swansea a could have played their tippy tippy to vorm all day - hughesy take note we need two up front especially at home.

Mackie should have equalised and it would have been a different story sadly the back four melted a way as we lost all sense of shape and discipline. We need a leader at the back Mbiia or Chris samba.

By the time Hughes reacted they were three up and game over. And swp at right back?

We will get better and the faith remains
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RBLOCKPAT added 11:51 - Aug 19

Possibly a blessing in disguise and should confirm, as we have all known, to Hughes that Hill Ferdinand Onouha and Green are not Premiership players. The one real thing that does my head in is that Hughes in his era was one of the best strikers in the world but he doesnt seem to rub off that great experience on our forward players. Wright Phillips Mackie Taarabt Diakite Zamora all need striker coaching just like they have at Tottenham in the Premier league you cannot afford that extra touch you need to hit the ball cleanly on target instinctively we dont apart from Cisse who never got himself in any position to yesterday. Maybe Hughes could spend an hour a day just showing them how to kick a ball at goal. Now we have Bosingwa we need a left back is Fabio going to be played solely in that position or Triore and neither are good defensively so its a bit of a worry. I am just so surprised that we havent secured a Centre Back early on because as all Rs fans were aware after last season it was our first priority and we must act really quickly to rectify the problem and seeing as we have only spent 1.5m nett lets spend some real money on some real quality at the back and as for Green I just dont know what can be done but just let him ride it out and hope he gets his confidence back but some of the mindless idiots in our crowd that heckle him dont help.
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Toast_R added 14:52 - Aug 19

Behind any good defence lies a solid foundation know as a goalkeeper. This position is vital as it gives a defence confidence and ensures communication and concentration at all times. Confidence is the absolute key.

Take that away and the defence crumbles.

We saw that happen with Green in 2010 on the biggest stage of his career, yesterday the start of his biggest move to date, he again proved that he just simply ain't up to it, nothing against the bloke personally but as a goalkeeper he stinks the place out.

I stayed to the bitter end and clapped a team off who put in one of the worst sorry arsed performances I've ever had the misfortune to say money for and it will take me a long time to get over yesterday's pile of turd. They owe this club a game of a lifetime next week.
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kysersosaqpr added 17:06 - Aug 19

What can be said that hasn't already been said. Cisse as lone striker is best away from home when we tend to play more on the break. Two strikers at home (fulham pair).
Real concern was lack of midfielders running back to cover in the second half - especially as MH's team blah on about their tough conditioning and training regime!
Ounahu and green looked like rabbits caught in headlights - never seen such nervousness in two players - weird?
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Royboy48 added 21:08 - Aug 19

I 'm having my say and I hope to be proved wrong
Having watched this display with dismay and disbelief, I reminded myself of what I had said to friends and fellow fans during the summer
Too many new players to blend in - no continuity stability or maturity, uncomfortable with buying a new team every six months, this feeding frenzy has never sat well with me.

We have totally squandered the momentum from last season and this disaster will shake the confidence of the entire squad; we shall see wholesale changes in only the second game of the season - more doubt and uncertainty. Last year we lost 0-4 on ending day; but this was with a shedload of new players only acquired a week before - this shedload have been in place since May...

I disagree with the previous poster 's assertion of the manager's candid acceptance of blame. Where. I didn't hear Sparky taking any responsibility, I did hear " performance unacceptable, no positives" I must have missed the bit where he said " Poor selection, poor formation, poor tactics, poor substitutions - my fault, my job to fix it "

We have a disjointed collection of talented and expensive players - a bench with AJ, Zamora and SWP! It feels like Sparky has gone back to January - and we know he's a slow starter

Remember last year - poor start with new players, eventually it was the established players who stepped up and got us out of trouble

For all their perceived weaknesses, I would still rather see Helguson and Buzsaky with squad numbers than Dyer and SWP

Too much change, too much hype, too much complacency

Sparky fashioned a 3-0 drubbing over this team in the Spring; we've witnessed an 8 goal swing and despite this lengthy post, I still feel lost for words

I've had my say and I hope I'm proved wrong

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patred added 07:25 - Aug 20

With a game plan straight from Rorke's Drift, Nigel shocked everyone yesterday.
(Hold out lads, until the relief column comes)
When we saw the first team selection we were all shocked into silence and disbelief.
I admit I thought he's either gone nuts, or his written this game off.
FFS, WTF! I was thinking... this will be a massacre, and in front of the whole world of live TV..
But after 30 minutes of desperate defending, disciplined marking, and the odd probe forward, I started to think we could get lucky here.. Then the penalty save, my thoughts flashed to 1976.. and found myself muttering, hold on, hold on, FFS HOLD ON...
My dream was soon smashed to pieces however when an 'orrble argie scored at the near post from a blatant offside position.
I thought here comes the flood, we would surely fold like a pack of cards... but my skepticism was unworthy of the bravery shown in Nigels red and a touch of white army. They continued to hold out till halftime.
15 MINUTES REST
15 minutes to get a cuppa, have a quick pee, and to listen that out of work Satchel faces son patronise us on Sky...
Now I was ready for the battle..hold out lads, a 1-0 defeat away to the champions isn't that bad, I 'll take that now..HOLD OUT.
NO ONE BUT NO ONE had read the script as Nigel got Ricky ready.. I thought might as well let the lovable scouser have his Premier debut, he's waited so long bless him.
Ricky chants were heard from stands has entered the Premier stage for the first time .. all of us anticipating a 30 minute cameo from the journeyman.
But this man exploded on to the scene as Saints got their second wind, and then the impossible.. Saints fans, and players went delirious as the rest audience were gobsmacked after Rickie prove to be once again the goal poacher no1..
City fans and players stood shocked, even Nigel took a few seconds to realise..
Oh OK ..City will just stroll up the other end and right that...so they thought!
But the tatical genius Adkins hadn't finished, he sent on the experienced midfielder for the 17 year old teenager.. all thought to help out the beleaguered backline.
But the script was thrown away as he decided to have a pop at the England No1..GOALLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLL FFS GOALLLLLLLLLLLLL... I was screaming as I danced around the room.. I am sure the rest of Suffolk heard it, as my son was in two minds whether to call out the men in white coats.
2-1 up at City...end it now ref FFS..Stop it now please.
But dreams don't last 90 minutes..
But it wasn't a dream.. forget the final result. we had actually earned the respect of the rest of the Premier League and announced our return.
And I had seen a very astute, and brave tactician .. or a very lucky man...
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LostBoys added 11:03 - Aug 20

I thought we did well and the elimination of basic mistakes in defence could have caused a real upset. However you have to take into account quality and the cost of the Man City forward line.
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qprtino82 added 11:53 - Aug 20

Rob GREEN - 1
Anton FERDINAND - 3
Clint HILL [64 - 3
Nedum ONUOHA - 3
Fabio DA SILVA - 3
Samba DIAKITE [86 - 5
Ji-Sung PARK - 5
Adel TAARABT - 4
Djibril CISSE [77 - 5
Jamie MACKIE - 5
David HOILETT - 6
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zonehead added 21:36 - Aug 20

so is Fox the new Harding , Nic ?
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Jesus_02 added 18:07 - Aug 25

Adkins was disappointing - no imagination...same meaningless passing with minutes to go. Frustrating
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Dennick added 08:57 - Aug 26

Not quite as poor as last week but I'm still trying to work out what the game plan was, I think Cisse and Traore are too, Apart from " keep it away from Rob Green" there seemed to be no other instruction to the back four and those in the middle had a different plan to the strikers altogether.
We looked like we are one league too high most of the time yesterday , the lack of organisation from the bench is puzzling, frustrating and simply unacceptable.

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e1337prodigy added 18:46 - Aug 26

Traore was most to blame for that goal. He just stood there and then when he did move he was 3 steps behind Jackson. Although our whole defence is still poor, by the end of the September we will be bottom of the league with a tragic goal difference if some players don't step up; and manager/coaching staff. We have games against Man City, Chelsea and Tottenham. I honestly thought with all the attacking players we have, we would at least be scoring goals. Matches should be ending 3-3 well that's what I predicted for the first 2 games. Any news on Faurlin? Last I heard he was getting fit; I take it just not match fit? The only positives from the two games has been Hoilett and Mackie. Cisse I thought would have scored by now. Park and Diakite have been ok.
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Chesham_Saint added 09:19 - Aug 29

A really porr performance. The scoreline reflects the fact that we have better finishers but Stevenage were otherwise just as good, if not better than us last night. Our support was really flat too. All in all a crap game.
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pnc4eva1 added 19:10 - Sep 1

A game in which Dale seemed to stay in first gear. Barnet were poor. At the end it felt like I'd been to watch a pre season game.

However two forwards scored to shut the moaners up for a few minutes. Dale got three points and moved up the table.
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MoonyDale added 20:58 - Sep 1

3 points and a clean sheet must be good for the confidence, Adebola was MOTM by a country mile...
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newgolddream added 23:53 - Sep 1

Brave performance against the champions. Could have nicked a draw before city's fortunate clincher. Need to a win sharpish and the next game would do just fine.
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MelakaRanger added 00:14 - Sep 2

Could have been 2-2 , could have been 6-1. One of those games!

But an improvement over Swansea and Norwich performances.

Wasnt impressed by the Johnson - Zamora partnership even though it brought us the goal. Dyer was OK, Granero looks very good and his spot kicks best we have had all season. Green not as bad as before but still looks very nervous - I still think he will be gone in January.

I remain very positive about this season. Give this team 2 more weeks and things should start to be happening for us
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LostBoys added 20:14 - Sep 2

Great game we should have won but we need to cut out these poor defensive mistakes
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Kaos_Agent added 20:23 - Sep 2

Pretty good showing considering that they have not really played together before. Nice to see Faurlin again, and Granero looks the genuine article. Despite key lapses the R's defended fairly well given who they were up against, and given that they did not simply park the bus.
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francisbowles added 00:40 - Sep 3

Congratulations, every player gave 100% and was rewarded with a decent performance. Overall some mistakes but much better, Hughes 10/10 for selecting players that would run and tackle for this fixture hence SWP m.o.m. for me. Granero very impressive and AJ lots of good runs off the ball and forcing the save from Hart that led to the goal. Best game from Ferdinand for a while as well. Disappointed with away support very quiet but I think the way we were split top and bottom of one section of the end had something to do with it. Good view from top though.
Time for patience and belief.
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landsdownsaint added 06:14 - Sep 3

Unfortunately Fonte and Fox will cost NA his job!
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icehorsestud added 09:15 - Sep 3

Great game, shame that we threw it away at the end again. Strangely enough I would have been quite content if we had lost 2-0 and been outplayed. Losing from being 2-1 up with five minutes to play is bloody annoying!
Sadly NA lost us the game. His reasoning for the subs was fresh energy, fresh pairs of legs. Yes, but it is the defence that is letting us down. If he wanted fresh energy he should have replaced Clyne and fox with Richardson and Seaborne - not take off the 3 best players, including the Captain, which made us rudderless. Guly wandered around without doing anything useful. Watching the replay on the last goal, nobody marked van Persie - how dumb can you get. I fely really sorry for the likes of Morgan and ward Prowse who played their socks off and Rickie was a class act. We will be alright but NA needs to get agrip on his substitution ideas and please can we ship Guly out....PS.I thought he was to be punished for his "offence", so why was he even on the bench?
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geraldo added 09:41 - Sep 3

We won't have an easier game all season - even their kit was crap!!

My concern is that we have turned the clock back 10 years with a mediocre team and crowds back to 2000. Grant looked sharp which was a bonus. cannot see us making play offs though....
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anfer added 10:20 - Sep 3

Totally agree with Icehorsestud....Ricky had worked his nuts off but he was the focal point, NA should do some serious work with the defence in the international break. Oh and get rid of Guly.
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Yorkshire_Dale added 23:41 - Sep 8

It speaks volumes that the best player on the pitch was Marcus Holness.......a player that John Coleman couldn't wait to get rid off in the summer!
Absolute shite from the home team!
Please can I have my money back after that show,Mr Coleman?
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geraldo added 01:05 - Sep 9

This was the worst performance by the worst Dale team in the last 10 years. Coleman has managed to gather together the most inept bunch of nobodys in the league. The only decent players are the 3 left from last season and the Capt Cavanagh is a joke. Mr Dunphy has a lot to answer for...........
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newgolddream added 17:09 - Sep 15

Well done to all concerned. Very unlucky with injuries. However a clean sheet and ending their 100% record will do for now. U R's!!!
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REEDYREEDOREEDZ added 17:19 - Sep 15

A complete defensive embarrassment!
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walshy15a added 17:37 - Sep 15

A good all round team performance,well done lads
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SuddenLad added 17:50 - Sep 15

Three very welcome points, especially away from home and so far South. Well done to the Dale fans who made the journey. Seems that taking off Andy Tutte may have altered the balance of play but we survived long enough to take what we deserved.

Onwards and upwards............
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LostBoys added 19:36 - Sep 15

I could only listen on the radio and that was bad enough. I did not expect a win and would have been happy with 2 zip but we were all over the place. We do not have a squad that can be set up as a defensive unit.
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NPsaint1 added 19:59 - Sep 15

2 oggys, FFS what in the name of all that's holy were they thinking? I wasn't expecting miracles this early on, but hells teeth, there's only one place we'll be going if this carries on.
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ugliest added 20:42 - Sep 15

Have been there and i must say that it was not only a defensive embarrassment.......you cannot expect that 4 defensive players can correct all the mistakes of a lot of their colleagues. Arsenal had total control of midfield; all our midfielders made stupid passes and other mistakes (individual actions where they should not do that). Even our forwards where not in good shape. Take Puncheon for example.........
Remind the fact that football is teamwork, nothing else.
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olderR added 21:01 - Sep 15

Great atmosphere and very enjoyable game.
Disappointed that Mackie got the nod before Adel, Junior or Djib
guess MH set up not loose rather than go for it.
Granero and Faulin are going to be immense.
Onward and upwards.
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winchesterbob added 23:28 - Sep 15

Vacant midfield, poor shape, comedy defending and Arsenal were really good.... Ramirez looked the real deal as did Yoshida and they must both be thinking WTF have I come to......... still on the bright side.....
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MelakaRanger added 23:40 - Sep 15

Brilliant performance by one and all.

Cesar far more confident than Green. In fact the whole team was oozing with confidence. Granero was supurb again.

Let us not underestimate the value of this point against the European champions. We could have won today 11 on 11 unlike last years 11 vs 9.

This was the best performance for a long time.

Shame about the 3 injuries but every week we will just get better and better.

Really think we have a great chance of winning at Spurs next Sat.
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forallthesaints added 01:14 - Sep 16

Desperately disappointing. Where was all the hustling and harrying? We stood back and let them build every time they got possession. Fox gave everyone a free go down the right wing(as usual) but the defence were poor everywhere. Lallana barely got involved in the first half and Lambert got nothing except hopeful punts at him. Puncheon wanted too long on the ball but he was industrious, even if he wasn't sure what to do with it. Yoshida looked nervous but better as time went on and Ramirez looks class. Clyne made some great tackles but was caught out of position a few times. Davis's positioning for the free-kick wasn't great - it was an easy goal and he could have spread himself a bit better for the third but apart from that he was okay. James W-P looked a bit out of his depth. All in all it was men against boys and the men gave the boys a bit of a spanking.
My first visit to the Emirates and it's a terrific stadium, shame the home supporters in it are so utterly boring. It reminded me of the days when Highbury got an overhaul and they had a season with a big picture of fans behind one of the goals. Except the picture made more noise.
Horrible day but we can only get better.... can't we?
COYR
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QPRNZ added 05:40 - Sep 16

It's good to see continued progress. This was the best performance of the season by some way. I thought a draw was a fair result with the only really worrying spell being after we had lost Fabio and Johnson to injury at the end of the 1st half when we seemed to lose shape and our game plan. I thought our midfield were excellent - I love watching Faurlin, Granero and Park, the latter being my man of the match for the way he broke up Chelsea's play . I must admit I thought Chelsea should have had a penalty in the 1st half when Hazard was brought down. Do have some concerns about where goals are going to come from? Also injuries were the other 'downer' - Fabio did not look too serious but Johnson and Ferdinand are more of a worry
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arfurdent added 09:15 - Sep 16

Well at least we know how Derby County felt
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SaintNick added 10:19 - Sep 16

forallthesaints makes a valid point without realising it, saying Fox gave everyone a free go down the right whilst lallana barely got involved, does that not say something about the lack of cover fox has every week, you cannot face teams with the width and pace of Arsenal unless you have proper wide men covering their runs both our full backs got exposed time and time again
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mikep added 11:03 - Sep 16

time for appleton to change showing ineptitude playing backwards does not win games
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HamptonR added 17:26 - Sep 16

Handshakes.

I can fully understand why Anton did not shake the hand of Terry and Cole and I can understand Terry saying "Oh come on" or words to that affect but I will never understand the loathsome individual Cole, who responded by spitting!

The respect campaign is worthless when you have an England international behaving in such a way. I believe the campaign is worthelss and pointless through personal experience but Cole is one low life scumbag!
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Kaos_Agent added 17:45 - Sep 16

Definitely looked like match of equals. Midfield is streets ahead of last year and Cesar does exude confidence.
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SuddenLad added 22:29 - Sep 18

Josh Lillis should be buying Kevin McIntyre & Bobby Grant a few drinks tonight. They got him out of jail.
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geraldo added 18:02 - Sep 22

How one man - the ref - can ruin a game.We were 2 up heading for 3 or 4 and then the diabolic penalty/sending off.
Nevertheless there was still no excuse for the way we capitulated and for JC's negative tactics,,,
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jdalec added 18:31 - Sep 22

Ref was an absolute joke, however we rolled over after the penalty/sending off. We should have been able to deal with Dag & Red even with 10 men ! Why did JC take our best threat off (Bobby Grant) ?? If we have won and got a point at Gillingham next week JC could have had chance of league 2 manager of the month ?
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Yorkshire_Dale added 23:26 - Sep 22

This was a 3 point banker for Dale.... we were dicking Daggers with ease at half time...why did Coleman change things so soon after half time then? Donnelly works hard but offers little...Dele needed to stay on longer to cover their tall defenders instead we let them come onto us and gave the idiot ref the chance to make himself a real tosser.......poor management tactics.

Why disturb a team that was working so well.

Yet another " nail biter" at San Spotty.

We went to absolute pieces after the penalty....no need,just no need!

Come on Coley,get it sorted. It's shit stuff!
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winchesterbob added 09:30 - Sep 23

The key to the win was staying tight at the back which thanks to Yoshida was almost achieved, just the small blip when Clyne and Puncheon had a "no after you sir" moment and the later scuffed the ball to Ireland, unfortunately Fox was thinking about "shall I have tea, coffee or take a dump at half time" and Bent left him for dead. The Midfield looked superb with Ramirez running the show, he really is the real deal. The second half Clyne was a revelation playing further forward on the left and Schniders sweeping in front of a back 3 at times. Great day at SMS, excellent team performance, especially the second half. My MOM Yoshida just gets it from Ramirez
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probbo added 20:58 - Sep 23

Does anyone know why MH keeps leaving Adel Taarabt out of the team - have they had a falling out or are there just too many midfielders to choose from?

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newgolddream added 21:12 - Sep 23

Another gutsy performance from the R's. However the honeymoon is over. We need points on the board and fast.
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MelakaRanger added 23:40 - Sep 23

We were a joy to watch and played as well as I have seen for many years. We were the better team but yet again no points. Spurs were good for 5 mins only but thats all they needed for their 2 goals.

No good saying we played well, if we get nothing from the game.

Very disappointed with the result and Hughes will now be under pressure to deliver a series of wins and quickly. The Chairman and the fans have waited long enough.
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QPRNZ added 08:48 - Sep 24

The match by match improvement continues. A step-up , in my opinion, from last week's performance v Chelsea and really disappointed to get nothing from the game. Midfield once again superb, constantly winning back the ball and rarely giving it away. i guess we lacked a little bit of a cutting edge in attack. For a man coming back after so long out, I would give man of the match to Kieron Dyer
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e1337prodigy added 09:33 - Sep 24

I agree with QPRNZ. Finally we have a midfield, great passing and more importantly all tackling and winning the ball back on occasions. Can't leave all the defending for the last 4. Shame that our forwards aren't getting shots off, and that showed yesterday when Hoilett had a lifetime to get a shot off and then Vertonghen making a superb tackle. Man of the match for me has to be Clint Hill, he made more saves than Cesar! Faurlin would have got man of the match but even though own goals tend to be unfortunate he turned his back to the ball and could have possibly been avoided. They all played brilliantly, shame we got nothing from it. What's happened to Cisse? he was scoring almost a goal a game and now he is a sub. Zamora is great but has no pace, more of a holding player or great player to give assists.
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Lazarus added 14:33 - Sep 24

For most of the game Spurs only threatened from set pieces, and scored their winner from a quick break as we pressed (yet again). I don't think they had the skill to play through us.

A draw would have been fair on balance of play (and stats), but an R's win would not have flattered us.

As others have said, this was an improvement on the Chelsea game (where we were pretty good). We are defnitely the best team in the division not to have won a game. Apart from "Narch", every team we have played this season is currently in the top half of the table, and most of those games have been away.

However, as someone else said, we need a win, if only to shut up the numpties baying for Hughes' head.
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ohsosharp added 01:24 - Sep 26

Thought Steve DE RIDDER WAS 1ST CLASS
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ThermosNBlanket added 09:31 - Sep 26

Gazza 6 two good saves 2 fumbles kicking one of his strengths

Yoshida 7 beaten a few times in the air think he will be better in the Prem than the CC/League 1 would get battered

Jos 7 A few strong challenges.

Richardson 6 a few good runs but poor crossing let him down

Seaborne 6 Poor distribution but battled well considering not played much

JWP 6 Did ok not as good as other games this season

Cork 7 good to see him back , busy, controlled middle with JWP and Chaplow but too many training game passes.

Chaplow 7 busy, good tackling some wasteful passing

Guly 6 Good and bad as usual - missed a good chance

SDR 5 What an enigma...some great wing play followed by nothing - not one piece of end product.

Rodriguez 7.5 Great goal, missed good chance made by his piece of skill, SRL in waiting. No need to rush yet.
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BeauRanger added 14:06 - Sep 27

Very poor result, particularly for Mark Hughes. Let's hope Faurlin is OK.
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slynch added 22:40 - Sep 28

Just watched highlights. ohsosharp you're spot-on. De Ridder bossed that game, could give Lallana and Punch a run for their money!
Gazza like an extra man on the pitch, he's gonna get more assists than all the MF put together!
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Pecky3 added 18:19 - Sep 29

Where was Schneiderlin today - is he injured as not even on the bench??
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regjenkins added 19:50 - Sep 29

How many of us predicted that result today?
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Yorkshire_Dale added 21:09 - Sep 29

Well done Team Dale!

The players,Management and the "99" super fans.

Onwards and hopefully UPWARDS!
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REEDYREEDOREEDZ added 12:28 - Sep 30

Saints were excellent in the first 20 minutes. We looked assured on the ball, confident in possession and had a decent grip on the game. Rodriguez had that great chance to put us 2-0 up as well.
But then we failed to deal with a routine cross from Miralles, when Clyne was left two on one down our left hand side, and just like that Everton were level. Another soft goal.
Then for the remainder of the half we were completely over-run by a rampant Everton. We lost control of the midfield and couldn't stop wave after wave of attacks.
The second goal, Fellaini and Miralles were allowed to play through our midfield way too easy, and maybe a more switched on defender would've let Jelavic run offside instead of Fonte who went with him, played him onside and then never got close to him.
The third goal was no surprise when it came as Everton were in complete ascendancy and they could've easily been up by more at half-time.
In the 2nd half Saints were much better. They regained a grip on the game and created a few decent chances. If Ramirez had managed to put that dinked effort the right side of the post, after a fantastic ball from Lambert, then Saints might have been able to nick a draw.
Mayuka again looked very useful when he came on, its just a shame he only got 10 minutes. He did really well for the chance he cut back to Ramirez on the edge of the box. Maybe he should start up front with Lambert v Fulham. He will cause problems for a lot of defences.
Lallana struggled to make an impact throughout, and Ramirez needlessly and frustratingly gave the ball away 5 or 6 times in the 2nd half.
Ward-Prowse did well for the majority, he has got a big future ahead.
Overall, it was a dissapointing result. Saints did really well in the opening 20 minutes and had a good 2nd half, but got torn to shreds once Everton had equalised.
There are still plenty of postives to take from the game . If Saints can stop conceeding soft goals, and regain control when the other team are on top, then the results will come.
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newgolddream added 00:30 - Oct 2

No end to the misery with yet another home defeat and red card. Hard to believe we are seven points worse off than last season already. One bright spot is the return of Taarabt and what a fantastic strike. All his 3 Premier League goals have been scored in London derbies.
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MelakaRanger added 00:39 - Oct 2

utterly awful

Tony F has given everything Mark Hughes has asked for. Money, time, infrastructure


Time for Hughes to deliver
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QPRNZ added 06:52 - Oct 2

Awful 1st half and terrible defending. Game looked totally different with Taraabt and Diakite who I thought also made a big difference despite his inevitable yellow cards!!
Granero and Faurlin surprisingly poor in this game.
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probbo added 08:27 - Oct 2

I'm not living in the UK at present but caught the match on Sky. A woeful first half display and poor defending for both of the goals. Just looked like a bunch of individuals in the first 45.

An improvement in the second half and a great goal by Tarbs. Diakite's sending off was just like his debut last season!

Hughes has an abundance of talent at his disposal (probably too much) and needs to find a way to get them playing as a team and fast - but just 8 wins from 28 matches in charge is not a good stat by any standard. Disappointing too that we have so many injuries just six games in to the season. At least theres an international break after this weeks game at the Albion.
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antoknee64 added 09:23 - Oct 2

Well done Adel,eyes wide open MH.
Bored with Onuoha,Park & SWP,we need creation and fight in our bellies.
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probbo added 10:02 - Oct 2

I meant to say also, i've absolutely nothing against Park as a player and he does bring something to our midfield but I do not think he makes a good Captain - I just don't see him galvansing those around him. He doesn't seem to say much at all. We need a Simon Barker 'die for the cause' type player as Captain.

Look at Mark Noble last night and compare the two.
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probbo added 10:04 - Oct 2

Correction - Kevin Nolan, not Noble
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quickpassrotter added 10:18 - Oct 2

Not good enough Hughes. While TF obviously wants and needs to back him we can not be cut adrift at the bottom. I'm afraid that Hughes does still not know his best team and seemingly lacks the motivation touch with the players. Very concerning.
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snanker added 11:57 - Oct 2

Amateur first 45 minutes silent mid field, little cohesion, we have to feel sorry for ourselves before making an effort ? 8 from 28 says it all probbo, spot on. Don't honestly know were we go from here cant see a win against Albion or the Toffees just in that "r" word rut already with the only positive being its the start of the season and not the end ! Feeling very average at the moment after that result.
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Doughnut added 12:33 - Oct 2


SWP a dud from day 1, for me, but keeps getting picked.
Midfield over-run, once again!
MH bending over backwards to keep Dyer. Why?
Taarabt on bench yet again. Why?
Why is the defence still a farce?(even with the injured players)
MH has had 2nd half of last season and all Summer so why are we still getting this shite?
Other teams play with drive and forceful determination, to win. This lot don't know what winning means.
Is MH up to it ?????
What more does he need??
How can this team be fixed; new manager????
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ShackletonR added 15:01 - Oct 2

Mark Hughes dosn't know his best team, so who comes in and picks the best team, i dont think anyone would know what the best team is with these individuals. so heres mine i would like to see Park on the right with Taarabt on the left and Hoilett playing off Zamoura, obviously Granero, Faurlin in the middle then what ever defenders are fit but Hill is no left back in the premier league, got turned too easily for the first goal.

Why are we so poor at defending set pieces or looping balls into the box, every time a ball comes in we look vulnerable, needs to have a look at that to start with other wise we will just get peppered with long balls and the percentge game will cost us eventually,

Sick of waking up a deppressed Rs fan after every game, two more defeats then i will be joining the time to change the manager voices.
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QPRFish added 17:14 - Oct 2

I can't really believe what i'm reading here tbh. Six games gone, 32 left & its all going wrong already??? Lets have a little bit of a reality check here. We've lost to the premier league champions away, we've drawn at home against the european champions, narrowly lost away to spurs who then went to old trafford & beat man utd! Those 3 teams will almost certainly be in & around the top 6 come the end of the season. Swansea, terrible result, Norwich, we didnt lose when we probably should've & last night was a poor performance against west ham. We've got injuries in key areas (both full backs) and almost a new squad of players that need time to gel, maybe even till christmas! ffs, where we 4-5 years ago!
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Steviel25 added 22:04 - Oct 2

Outstanding performance Easty Eastmond Outstanding. Role on the next game.
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jdalec added 11:37 - Oct 3

Once Bobby Grant got sent off any hope of winning this game dissappeared, it was always going to be a backs against the wall struggle. What a great 10 man performance to slavage a point against a good side, we defended superb, the challanges were clinical and everybody stood up to be counted. Thought Adebola went to sleep in 2nd half and couldn't understand why the substitution took so long and why when it came it was Kennedy and not Adebola who was brought off ??
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lawrie65 added 13:24 - Oct 3

GREAT DISPLAY FROM COLCHESTER FC. MY MAN OF THE MATCH WAS EASTMOND EVEN THOUGH THE WHOLE TEAM DID THERE BIT.
LOOKING FORWARD TO SATURDAY.
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newgolddream added 18:09 - Oct 6

Spirited performance from the R's but no points yet again. It was a defeat at West Brom that signalled the end of John Gregory's reign at QPR. I wonder will history repeat itself???
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jdalec added 18:55 - Oct 6

Not a classic but 3 points will do.
Still think that when Adebola is playing we are starting with 10 and a half men ! His work rate and effort seem to deplete with every performance ??
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hoops58 added 19:59 - Oct 6

How much longer are we going to SWP out there! He has given us absolutely nothing in every game this season and several last season, yet again the back four struggling to pick up players giving far too much time and space. Only Nelsen, Granero and Taarabt showing any class.
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derbyhoop added 21:17 - Oct 6

We didn't play that badly, but if we defend like that, we will continue to lose games.
0


MelakaRanger added 23:02 - Oct 6

Yet again we give a team a 2 goal head start. Our defence is woeful, truely awful.

Adel had 5 mins of real impact and 85 mins of little impact.

Hoilett impressed. He gave the ball away yet ran back and tackled to recover the ball. Something Adel won't do.

Buy why oh why does SWP start? We would be as good with just 10 men.

Another loss next game and I am sure the various Fora will be full of Hughes Out.

I have been a great supporter of MH and the need for stability but the next 2 games are crucial. Two more defeats and I can see Tony F hitting the 'Panic' button.

I suspect that behind the scene 'soundings out' will start this week
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snanker added 23:52 - Oct 6

Concede late goals, concede early goals ! We seem to have this pattern repeating itself now and as I mentioned before we have to be behind and feeling down on ourselves before playing some genuine football. That's a real relegation mentality that seeps into the mind set and reinforcer's the above mentioned outcome. The players are struggling between the ears and its evident in concentration levels and self belief. Nothing that a couple of wins cant go a long way to turning around though. Not sure any more MH can assist in producing those results. Will TF be as cut throat with the Welshman as he was with NW. Stay tuned...we are AS ever QPR !
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QPRNZ added 01:44 - Oct 7

A better performance in the 2nd half but it is no good to keep saying this, it's results we need. Obviously, awful defending cost us. I don't like to pick on players when they have more talent in their big toe than I have, but I just cannot fathom why you would pick Wright-Phillips. I am sorry but I do not for the life of me I do not understand why you would persist in picking him. I suppose we are a little nearer knowing our best formation. Playing Mbia or Diakite? in front of the back four with 2 out of Granero, Faurlin and Park in the middle. Clearly Taraabt has to play - he provides all of the creativity. Still desperately disappointing
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R_in_Sweden added 10:14 - Oct 7

MelakaRanger not sure what game you were watching regarding your comments on Taarabt. However I agree with you about SWP, he poses no attacking threat whatsoever, I cannot for the life of me understand his continued selection. It's not as if we don't have alternatives there.

Hill at left back is a disaster, we would have been better off with Park there. Regarding Park, he is turning into the new Barton without the tweets, big name, captain's armband with average performances at very best.

When we were 2-1 down and putting WBA under a little bit of pressure I was just urging WBA to score the inevitable killer goal that always comes, just like a predictably scripted naff ending to a Hollywood film.

Two excellent goals from us, two crap ones conceded and a glaring miss from Bosingwa at the end. When I booked my trip for the Everton game I really wasn't expecting us to still be looking for our first win, the subdued arrogance of Hughes is starting to grate on my nerves.
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Doughnut added 10:56 - Oct 7

It's like watching the Amytiville Horror....George always wakes at 3.15am and the haunting starts.......QPR always concede after 5mins and the nightmare continues.
SWP starts again????
I hope, as mentioned above, that 'soundings' have started. How about it Harry, up for a REAL challenge???
Lets get someone in who can get these idiots playing with the talent they actually possess and some co-ordination. Lets have a sensible mature captain, who'll get em in order. Park as captain is about as daft as Taarabt with the armband. At least he showed some fire yesterday after his goal.
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probbo added 14:26 - Oct 7

Poor Clint Hill's slowness was totally exposed by Shane Long for the first goal, while Anton rather gifted them the second - why did he just not blast the ball out of play for a corner? You know, basics?? If Ferdinand's head isn't in the right place he should be dropped.

Its an increasing concern that Hughes appear somewhat lacking as a tactician - he must surely study the upcoming opposition and look at their strengths and weaknesses but can't put a side together to defend and exploit these.

I marvel at the talent we have but despair that they cannot play as a team. No away wins, just eight wins in what, 29 games in charge? I'll keep the faith for now but its becoming strained.
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BirminghamR added 16:08 - Oct 7

Regular reader of fantastic Clive reports - very rare poster.
Considerations from y'day and
Play 4-5-1
Mbia into centre back hole (alongside Nelson)
Diakite def mid behind Granero and Faulin
Tarrabt wide left
Mackie/Park/Hoilett wide right
Cisse centre forward.
Frustration rising about Hughes persistence with SWP. Bit like his insistence on Barton pre Liverpool last season.
Faith in Hughes to get it right - but why do they have to learn lessons all over again.
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francisbowles added 17:45 - Oct 7

Big mistake by Ferdinand. Shame, because he was playing well before his injury. Bit early to be calling for him to be dropped though!

Left back is a real concern, Clint now a CB and glad Traore back but he is very inconsistent and I believe he is better as a wide midfielder. Fabio, when fit? He is better going forward as well. Think it's a position to look at in January as well as an alternative target man to Zamora.

Although, we played well 2nd half, we kept playing to the WBA tall defenders strengths. I know Cisse hasn't been great as a lone striker but, with Tarabt, Granero and Hoilett to feed him quality balls and get beyond him, instead of the odd wayward cross or ball played up to him with his back to goal, he might look better!

Stating the obvious but next game is going to be very difficult as well. Hopefully, with a two week break, we will have better news on the injury front and no nasty surprises from the Internationals. Tarabt on top of his game at present, is he in Morocco team?
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silverbackuk added 20:10 - Oct 7

First game I've managed to get to.
IMO until we sort out the defense we will struggle to win a game. Ferdinand was terrible. Ryan did well but one man & a goalie do not make a defense. We need to play full backs at full back (even if it's one of the youngsters) & not centre backs. It does not work, especially in the EPL. We also need another CB alongside our 'back-up' (yeah right) CB Mr Nelson. At least we didn't play 4-4-2 which is an outdated formation in the modern game at this level....
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Yorkshire_Dale added 00:11 - Oct 14

Dog shite.

We thought Eyre was clueless.......looks like we have done it again!

I repeat,dogshite.
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geraldo added 12:25 - Oct 14

How can Coleman think that Cavanagh is worth a place in the side - we only started going forward when JK came on.
Donnelly does a lot of running but will never score enough goals and gives the ball away too often.
Worse than the Burton performance which I thought was the pits......
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geraldo added 17:38 - Oct 20

Another defeat with Cavanagh in the team - he has not played in any of our wins but all of our defeats.Perhaps Coleman might get the message??
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LostBoys added 10:04 - Oct 21

On top first half but missed opportunities and poor decision making led to no goals. Second half defending amaterish and shipped 4 goals. Dreadful
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newgolddream added 19:24 - Oct 21

Hard to settle for a point after leading and then playing with an extra man. A huge improvement on our last showing in W12 and will have to win our next two home games. Listened to Davie Moyes' post match interview and what a miserable sod. Reminds me soo much of Alex Ferguson who however has won a trophy or two, something Moyes has failed to do in his time at Everton. Couldn't believe he didn't replace Pienaar when the South African received a final warning from the referee. Just our luck we couldn't take advantage.
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QPRNZ added 21:04 - Oct 21

Much happier with the set up of the team . I thought we played well and did enough to warrant 3 points except for dreadful set piece defending…. again.
Diakite was my man of the match and Hoilett excellent too. Blatantly clear penalty for foul on Hoilett too. Park and Bosingwa quite poor, though I am prepared to forgice them as they will come good. Has to be viewed as a step in the right direction.
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Kaos_Agent added 23:12 - Oct 21

A draw against a good team and yet it feels like a loss. Lots to like about the performance and yet so many opportunities missed (or taken away, re the penalty no-call). Poor set piece play will be our downfall if not addressed. And surely MH must see now that Hoilett has to start if we are to develop any credible offense.
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Nov77 added 01:14 - Oct 22

Quote from Martin Jol about bobby Zamora "He hated defence and later said he hated crosses as well and that was the moment I thought 'maybe it is better to sell' and that is what we did."

It was there for all to see today, cost us a goal today.

Thought Granero was outstanding, diakite too.
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themodfather added 06:04 - Oct 22

v 10 men is hard but chuck on an extra attacker...so we bring on 2 defenders and ferdy has been poor for a while, park does little imo
i would have had zamora and park off for cisse and mackie on.
all the nice football, all the possession=no wins and few shots on target, we had a few long range but i can't recall many goal mouth scrambles.
zamora loses the ball too often, he cost us at spurs and it goes on.
hold it or learn to "ride" the foul from behind,like holt does.
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walshy15a added 08:41 - Oct 22

Had to settle for the point against a very good Everton side.
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francisbowles added 09:52 - Oct 22

A much better performance, in midfield/attack! However, Zamora very poor. Thought Park was a lot better and my initial thoughts that he should have picked Faurlin instead were overuled as I think Park adds a bit more pace and aggression which balanced the midfield.

I believe Cisse should have replaced Zamora a little earlier, although he did benefit from the game being stretched when he came on. I don't think that we should have gone chasing the win as we could easily have been picked off AND ANOTHER CONSECUTIVE DEFEAT WOULD HAVE BEEN DISASTROUS FOR OUR CONFIDENCE. As it is we have a point against a very good team and a good performance, although we rode our luck a bit immediately after their equaliser.

We now have to sort out defending, especially set pieces, and go looking for points. I agree the next two home games are vital.
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faggy62 added 12:22 - Oct 22

At least Coleman is playing Cavanagh in his recognised position now. He looked totally uncomfortable and lacking in confidence and pace in mid-field. It was like playing with a back 5. Reckon midfield of Tutte, Kennedy and Edwards is probably our best option at present - more balance and more attacking minded. How Kennedy was dropped is beyond belief. Hopefully he is back for good, in my opinion he is our best player, along with Bennett.
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Harbour added 13:34 - Oct 22

Better showing against top 6 side when we are bottom 6 side. win will come hopefully against reading.awful defending for their goal from a set piece need to stop making school boy errors like this...Hoilett was rangers best player on the day
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geraldo added 14:18 - Oct 22

Thanks faggy but looking at the player scores then Cavanagh certainly appears to have had another stinker even at full back.
If he plays on Tues then I think JC will really get the bird from the crowd - which I expect to be below 2000 and then maybe Dunphy might start to take notice.
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highlandbill added 15:58 - Oct 22

Up to now I have been critical of MH team choice but against Everton I think he put out a strong team, its a pity it was so patchy. There is no "feel" about our team & I think this is because they are a bit like a mercenary army...bought in to do a job rather than "grow" within the club.Not much can be done about that especially with a manager devoid of motivational skills.We played well in the first half but the half time team talk (whatever it was ) seems to have put an end to that.
Cisse looks fed up,Zamora is lumbering about upfield, Park works his socks off but frequently fails.
Of the new "boys" Nelson & Grenaro seem the most committed, I think the former should have been made captain as he is very bossy and gets stuck in with a vengence (but doesnt foul). Is Mackie injured? He is always worth bringing on as a sub as he knows where the goal mouth is , (unlike SWP).
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MelakaRanger added 07:32 - Oct 23

Yes we played well but once again we gifted our opponents their goal. We seem to make a knack of shooting ourselves in the foot. In my mind that was another 2 points given away.

Thank goodness SWP didn't play. Hopefully Hughes has finally got the message now?

I truly hope this is the moment we turned the corner and that we get a point or more at Arsenal and beat both Reading and Southampton.

I am a firm supporter of Mark Hughes and I desperately was him to stay and succed but no matter what Tony F says publicly, if we lose to Reading and Southampton I fully expect he will make swift changes at the top.

Novembers 4 games will make or break the Hughes tenure at Loftus Rd.

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MelakaRanger added 07:56 - Oct 23

My last sentence should have read 5 games not 4. Doh!
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geraldo added 17:03 - Oct 24

3 valuable points and 2 good goals but lets not kid ourselves this was a lucky win against a team that should have been 3 up at half time.
Cavanagh had a better game but still contributes very little and BBM would seem to be a better option as a holding midfielder. Adebole is becoming a liability
The crowd must be the lowest for over 10 years and we need to avoid a return to the dark ages of the 80's - Dunphy needs to start showing a commitment by getting his cheque book out.
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newgolddream added 17:18 - Oct 27

Rousing finish from the R's. Cesar outstanding and Mbia is an idiot. Goal was offside and what more does Mackie have to do to get a start? Will come back here some day with another club and haunt us.
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quickpassrotter added 21:48 - Oct 27

I thought that we handled them well today. Up to the sending off thought that we would get the point. Why can't our players realise that they are going to get physically thumped during the game and accept it - how many more sendings off due to retaliation can we tolerate. M'bia a complete bloody idiot. Sorry - SWP a waste of space again.
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snanker added 23:17 - Oct 27

A typical R's result or what ! A sending off, a disallowed goal, a late (off side) losing goal and two glorious chances wasted at the death. All the pre-requisites luck wise of a team in deep doo, doo & facing the drop ! The worse thing just to rub it in was Wegener stating that the sending off was crucial to the final result. Angry g''rrrrrrrr !
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highlandbill added 00:27 - Oct 28

SWP got a start! Is the man mad? Last time out I said its always worth bringing Mackie on as he has a habit of doing magic,today he showed that he should have been on from the start. Last season I thought we had put up with 10 years worth of bad luck,I never thought we would get more! We are as far as ever from a settled side. We do have heros,Nelson & Cesar in particular but what about our manager? For me he must go if we do not win the next two. Just look at Fulham under Johl he has had less time & similar money and they are well up there. european places
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Kaos_Agent added 00:33 - Oct 28

Could have been a win if any credible offensive prowess had surfaced. Arsenal left the door open. Should have been a draw but for Mbia madness. Could not believe that MH sat Park only to put in SWP yet again. How many times does he need to demonstrate his ineffectiveness in the attacking zone? Am now in the MH doubters camp.
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MelakaRanger added 00:49 - Oct 28

When I saw SWP trott onto the pitch I just knew we were not going to win.

Picking SWP come what may will be the downfall of Hughes.

M'bia should be ashamed, he cost us the match due to his nastiness.

But another typical Hughes QPR performance of gifting the opponents the game.

Even though Hughes did not play for the win we deserved the draw. But Arsenal were there for the taking, had he set us up to win we could have. He set us up not to win, and we didn't.

If we lose next week I think Tony will hit the eject button
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francisbowles added 01:07 - Oct 28

Oh dear! Pressed the self destruct button again. Biggest problem is not the dropped point but the three game ban. Having put up a decent defensive performance, we now have to find an instant new partnership in central defence for the games that we simply MUST WIN.

Unfortunately, I have to agree that SWP was very poor again. When he does sometimes get it under control and/or beat a man, he then follows it by giving away the ball. Surely, Faurlin should have been in instead! As for JM, I believe he is usually very effective as an impact player but less consistent when he starts.

Mbia's 'performance' was an unfortunate reminder of Barton and Cisse last year.

Cesar is a great shot stopper but he spills a lot that he should hold onto.

Please, please win next week1
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Dennick added 02:12 - Oct 28

I cant believe SWP got a start, no room for Faurlin? The change up front came far too late Zamora looks lazy a lot of the time.
Cesar, Nelson & Mackie gave it everything as did Granero but he was lucky not to go off.finding it difficult to have faith in the mangement team despite a good last 5 minutes or so.
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smegma added 17:23 - Oct 28

31 votes so far and SWP has less than 4 marks. We can't all be wrong can we ???
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hoops123 added 17:32 - Oct 28

The patience ends now. It's do or die next week or Hughes will Start to cop for some serious grief. Faurlin on the bench with another start for SWP. No longer acceptable.
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frannybill added 19:51 - Oct 28

It obviously escaped the attention of the management that both goals against Oxford arrived via a player making the by-line and crossing!! No change in tactics against Fleetwood, perhaps not surprising since we don't appear to have a natural wide player in the squad!! Whose fault is that then? Despite Geraldo's plea for cheque book, unlikely that the money would be well spent I'm afraid!!
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Doughnut added 20:41 - Oct 28

This has at least clarified things. There can be no doubt now, that anything short of 2 wins in the next 2 matches, must mean a managerial change (Many a Premier league team would have given MH the long before now). For if we hold on to him until Christmas, still playing SWP, still with a timid and shaky defence, still allowing players to think that getting sent off is just unfortunate, then come May, or probably a long time before that, we will be Relegated! Mbia should be hung out to dry for that yesterday. Is he on Wenger's payroll or something?
9 matches, 3 draws, 6 defeats. No further comment necessary!!!
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QPRFish added 21:35 - Oct 28

There's obviously a number of our support who must think "The Four Year Plan" was a spoof documentary about Queens Park Rangers Football Club......
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winchesterbob added 07:45 - Oct 29

More comedy defending and a clown keeper first half. Second Half Saints worked harder to keep the ball against a tiring Spurs. Mayuka came on for Puncheon and at last we had a player with enough desire and boll**ks to get the ball into the Tottenham box. Not the 6 nil drubbing many were predicting but still no points.
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1MoreBrightonR added 08:37 - Oct 29

I hate continually being negative about a player and first half, i though SWP defensively battled a bit and won the ball...he still did nothing going forward though. However, second half he was awful...and i mean seriously awful. He looked like he just didnt want to be anywhere near the pitch...he just cant start him anymore.
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jonrog added 09:04 - Oct 29

Game of 2 halves, we really needed to be able to rate the players differently for each half.
I didn't understand why we brought on Guly when we had great momentum and needed to maintain it. Hardly an IMPACT player in these circumstances.
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saintsoldboy added 09:24 - Oct 29

I feel sorry fo NC. He can only work with what he has got. Some players might ultimately be good enough to step up to this level e.g Clyne but others have been found out already. Puncheon is an example. We can play football but we are not clinical finishers and at this level that really shows. I have no idea whether Boruc will be good enough but he certainly doesnt look so at the moment. Great goalkeepers are a real bonus in the Prem and with our sieve like defence they are a necessity.
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LostBoys added 12:48 - Oct 29

Probably the worst first half performance since Blackpool last year (which cost us the league title) and then one of the best. I have to say the game analysis on MOTD was scary as it showed just how crap we are at defending as a team.
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jonnycooper added 13:22 - Oct 29

Fleetwood were lucky to escape with a draw as the ref was absolutely shocking,,he penalised them for almost anything and did everything he could to help rochdale,including sending off the wrong man..Well done codheads for getting a draw when even the Ref,s playing against you..
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LostBoys added 13:11 - Oct 31

Well done the Sainyts fans who went - they deserve a full reffund and first priority on away tickets. I think that it told us what we already knew - the youngsters are not ready and the squad players are not good enough
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patred added 16:56 - Oct 31

I want to report a fault in the rating.. it starts at 1,and there were a few that didn't deserve even that!
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highlandbill added 19:35 - Nov 4

OH dear! It just goes on..we played against a very poor team today.They had only one game plan & stuck to it throughout the match & it worked..mainly because Rangers did not come up with a way of dealing with it or indeed a game plan of their own.
I was so pissed off near the end I was almost hoping we would lose so that Hughes would get the sack & we could get the agony over at this stage rather than at some inevitable point in the future.
Has there ever been such a talented squad in the Premiership which just cannot win games? How on earth can a Manager fail to motivate & organise so many skilled players? We are now a joke for every other fan and club. Who can we beat? I am beginning to fear the worst in the Southampton game. OK we had enough chances to win today but so did Reading. The result was fair but pathetic when you consider their resources with ours. I reckon Messi would fail to score in our team because the Manager would put him in defence or something equally stupid. Roll on the tumbril!
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Doughnut added 21:43 - Nov 4

Well if this is the so-called 'stability' that we need by sticking with Hughes, then Id rather sack him and have chaos. Like Bill, and for the first time ever supporting QPR in 35 years, I actually wanted us to loose so we could get the pain over with and move on. What a sorry state of affairs we've come to. If the 'stability ' merchants can tell me where a win is going to come from, this season, let alone in the next few weeks, I'll throw in my hat with Hughes.
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MelakaRanger added 22:27 - Nov 4

Well at least there was no SWP or Park!

But in the first hour hour we had maybe just 2 mins when we were on top and Reading had 58 mins! Hence the booing as the team went off at half time?

Then we scored and the tempo increased by 100%. QPRs effort and resolve increased 500% and for most of the remaining 30 mins we were by far the better team. Had Taarabt not been so selfish/showboating on a couple of occasions then we could easily have won.

But once again it was a case of we should have won but didn't win.

Forgetting where we are (bottom and winless), its seems unbelievable that in a home game against a team who has not won this season and shipped 7 goals earlier in the week, we were unable to score more than one goal and unable to win.

No doubt Tony F will be full of praise on Twitter and I'll back his decision on Hughes, whatever it may be even if personally I dont agree. BUT its plain for all to see. Hughes is not the man he claims to be. His shortcoming have been exposed at QPR and he has shown himself to be an ineffective manager.

There is something fundamentally wrong at QPR of this bunch of very talented players, play so poorly and preside over the most unsuccessful start we have had to any Premiership season ever. Even the 'out of their depth' team of '69 won 3 games in their relegation season!!!

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highlandbill added 22:32 - Nov 4

Doughnut ,I started going to Loftus Road in 1965,there has been some low points along the way but I cannot remember a season that appeared to promise so much and delivered zilch (so far). I am no fan of millionaires but I almost feel sorry for Tony Fernades. He is a new boy compared to you & me but as the owner he has opened his wallet & done his bit . We pay hundreds ,he has paid millions, we have all been let down by managerial incompetance . I hope he has kept enough dosh back to tempt Rafa Benitz!
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newgolddream added 22:40 - Nov 4

Not good enough I'm afraid. Can't believe we r struggling so badly. I'd say a lot of money was won on Gorkss scoring today. Bookies will soon have us in their bottom three especially after results this weekend.
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francisbowles added 00:14 - Nov 5

Talented squad? Yes the midfield is extremely good and played well today but defense? Bosingwe had an absolute stinker and what was all that dancing about? Did he also have a sulk when he stopped running back? The attack is not great either. Cisse good in patches, hopefully will improve with games, confidence and familiarity with Granero, Tarabt etc etc, but he also has to have decent service from wide positions. Traore not bad but Bosingwe very poor and Onuoha also one footed and chippy,floaty balls which give the attack little chance.

All that said, and even though we were both very poor and very good, I felt that we would have won but for their keeper who was excellent.

Keep the faith and where is Keiron Dyer?
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QPRNZ added 01:00 - Nov 5

Clearly a poor result and again poor defending for the goal when we had a total of 4 chances to clear the ball. However, a much improved 2nd half performance has left me not knowing what to think - not total despair but still lots to worry about. Taraabt was inspirational and hard working, covering masses of ground. But, many of our attacks appeared to be individual efforts rather than working as a team. I thought the midfield did not play well today - I don't see why Faurlin is not playing with Granero and Diakite. Nevertheless, relieved to that SWP was given a rest . And for goodness sake, our defenders need some heading practice - did we win any from Reading corners?
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Kaos_Agent added 05:02 - Nov 5

The good: starting selection, lots of attacking opportunities, some very good near-misses, better discipline. The bad: service and shot quality still not good enough so too many wasted opportunities. The ugly: defending set pieces, yet again. Honestly don't know whether the bad and the ugly are due to poor management or over-rated players. Probably both. I'm conflicted about this result. Disappointed and yet encouraged. We will score goals but if we continue to defend like this it won't matter. The set piece defending will be surely tested at Stoke. And I have no idea whether MH, his assistants, or our players can do anything about it.
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R_in_Sweden added 07:45 - Nov 5

Time to go Hughes! This just isn't working. I just hope that Fernandes has a suitable replacement lined up. The team lacked spirit, cohesion and fight for over an hour yesterday, bar some exceptions notably Taarabt, Nelsen, Diakité and Granero. I expected them to come flying out of the traps.

Frankly I'm sick of the sight of Hughes and the ex-Chelsea keeper's (who's name I can't spell) miserable faces on my TV screen every time they zoom in on our bench. One advantage of being at the game is that you avoid this. Also sick of the sight of a more and more disappointed looking Faurlin going to waste, what was it Tony said when Faurlin was on the road to recovery - it'll be like making a 15 million signing.

Just read that the genius and sound sleeping Hughes has pinpointed an area for improvement after yesterday's game - defending set pieces!! I think that a career move into marketing matresses for insomniacs would be most advisable. Rant over.
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derbyhoop added 09:24 - Nov 5

Too many players turned in inadequate performances. Yet we managed to draw against a side who had 1 attempt on target in 90 minutes and very few attempts from open play.
The foundations are there but the intensity has to step up all over the park.
10 games in, no wins. Make no mistake we are already involved in a battle to avoid going down with Reading and Southampton.
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ozranger added 09:59 - Nov 5

For those of you who are baying for the gaffer's head, we have missed our chance of one interesting option as a replacement. Ollie was just picked up by Palace. Now, I wonder how he would go with this lot? Haven't had a chance to see the game yet, so won't comment until then. Only good news was that SWP was on the bench throughout.
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HollowayRanger added 11:06 - Nov 5

hughes average rating for the season 4.51 gee

9 players averaging 4.something
7 players averaging 5.something
4 players averaging 6. something
3 players averaging 7.something

not good is it
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snanker added 11:22 - Nov 5

Time to say ta Taff but it just ain't working ! You've had a decent crack and fallen short so on your way and thanks for the heart ache. Ta Kaspar knew you'd be worth a punt ! As H.Simpson says, the irony, ah the irony, no really the irony !!
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Dennick added 11:52 - Nov 5

I reckon Doughnut & Bill are on the money, how the hell does anyone think we can survive this critical year, clubs trying to get back up and stay up next year have no hope. we're in big trouble and "loyalty"to a hopeless management team is not going to save Tony's millions or QPR. we're dogged by poor selections, ineffective game plans and a total lack of application by management during the game. the players seem to lack interest or motivation most of the time ( with a few exceptions) no wonder they get boo-ed off at half time.
Frustrated? dead right I am, for Christ sake even Brentford are starting to look interesting.
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welwynhoop added 13:38 - Nov 5

The big difference between the teams yesterday seemed to be the work effort when possession was lost. Reading worked extremely hard when they lost the ball but, apart from Mackie, the other QPR players didn't really do enough. Having said that I still think Taarabt was man of the match.
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e1337prodigy added 19:55 - Nov 5

Completely agree with Kaos agent, not taking our opportunities will cost us by Feb/Mar when we are still in relegation zone and the games are running out. Although credit to their goalie, we would have won if it weren't for him.
I don't think we are getting much luck at the moment either, seeing Mackie get completely man handled in the penalty area or a few players from the opposition who put in great performances. I bet the Reading Goalie doesn't put a performance like that next week.

That safety margin is getting further and further away.

Fernandes won't get rid of Hughes, he was the guy he brought in and won't admit he chose the wrong guy.

Like others have said, why not play Granero, Faurlin and Diakite in midfield, Hoilett and Taarabt on wide areas and Cisse up front (not keen on Zamora - doesn't score enough goals), or even mackie up front, he is a striker after all and can finish chances, the amount of times he has come off the bench and scored for us. The great header against City last season. Don't care who he puts in defence (wouldn't matter anyway; can't defend to save their lives).
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e1337prodigy added 20:05 - Nov 5

I'll just add on
"Like others have said, why not play Granero, Faurlin and Diakite in midfield, Hoilett and Taarabt on wide areas and Cisse up front (not keen on Zamora - doesn't score enough goals), or even mackie up front, he is a striker after all and can finish chances, the amount of times he has come off the bench and scored for us. The great header against City last season. Don't care who he puts in defence (wouldn't matter anyway; can't defend to save their lives)."
I can't see how this could fail - with the team in possession Granero can gradually move forward into an attacking midfield (shooting from outside the box or putting through some great through balls to cisse with his pace he can get on the end of them), taarabt and hoilett on wide areas whipping in crosses or sometimes cutting inside and shooting from outside the box which they can both do. if we get caught on the counter our full backs can try to slow the counter down and/or either diakite or faurlin to come in to help while the other one stays in central position. hopefully hoilett or taarabt can get back by then. we also have great counter options ourselves with the pace of hoilett
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Ddobsy added 23:53 - Nov 5

A poor attacking display where the Baggies were man for man better at the back than we were upfront. However that. Didn't stop Saints having plenty of possession and playing descent footy. The real problem lay at the back with individual errors giving West Brom plenty of encouragement. Fox was at fault for the second goal and passive repeatedly. He doesn't stop the cross, cut out the pass or force his man backward. Lallana wasn't short of effort but was over powered. Ramirez looked off the pace and generally we looked smaller and slower across the park. A return to 4-5-1 is needed along with throwing Shaw in at the deep end. Maybe in Jan we can sell one of our numerous expensive centre forwards and bring in an international centre half.
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LostBoys added 03:26 - Nov 6

Very poor display - West Brom simply sat back and waited for us to f**k it up. We never competed anywhere on the park and some of the defending is onlt parks tandard. Swansea and QPR are vital wins. The away support was fantastic and I will be there at QPR
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R_in_Sweden added 17:25 - Nov 10

Immensely frustrating to watch, yet somehow inevitable. Played the better football, had most possession, created most chances. Picked the side that most posters on this site wanted. Still came away empty handed. Where do we go from here?
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highlandbill added 18:01 - Nov 10

Yes I was happier with the selection today but would have preferred Hill & Mackie to have been in the mix. This more ballanced side has more or less evolved rather than be chosen by the manager.All other teams picked up a point or 2 today so we slip further adrift. I expect to see MH go during the course of the week & if not after the Southampton game unless we win by a bundle.Good to see a bit of backbone come into our play. I guess that despite poor morale some of the players are now playing for personal pride.
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LostBoys added 19:46 - Nov 10

A really crap piece of defending together with some poor finishing costs us 2 points. Biggest let down in my opinion was Lallana again.
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BirminghamR added 19:56 - Nov 10

Hughes has just got to stick with it - and hope for some luck before the elbow
His team was the best poss today ( Diakete, Granero, faurlin together)and set up tactically ok
However if we are playing with one up front we need one of the three mids to do a Kevin Nolan and bomb forward to add support in the centre.
Seems like tempramentally each of our mids prefer to stay centre park and pick a pass. Problem is - to whom? Suggest Diakete is best placed to do a Vierra and add some support to Cisse with strong runns from mid.
Sparky- you're hangin by a thread. Hope your luck turns
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gobbles added 21:15 - Nov 10

Can't see how anyone can see that as the best possible team. We lack bodies in the box and some threat in front of goal, yet persist with a lone striker. The very brief period that Zamora and Cisse played together last season they looked fantastic. Yet Hughes doesn't seem keen on that possibility at all. Faurlin, Granero and Diakite look great passing sideways, I'd rather have players who stick the ball in the net.
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snanker added 21:24 - Nov 10

Gee a goal conceded from a set piece the usual lack of fortune, the same old Hughes blurb, the same old relegation ingredients, please Southampton score a late equaliser next week and give the R's board enough spine to rid us off this amateur hour shite ! How grim does this has to get before someone at the top makes the call on this "management" team ! Nineteen games without a win ! For crying out loud !
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MelakaRanger added 22:12 - Nov 10

We had the greater possession yet come the 18 yard box we were gutless, as we have been all season.

Taarabt currently fans MOM. No way!

Once again his selfishness cost us at least one goal. Does he ever look up to see who is around him to pass to? Does he ever stop showboating? Always trying to be too clever.

I haven't heard the after match press conferences but I am sure it will be full of the usual excuses. I have been a supporter of Hughes throughout but enough is enough. Hughes is utterly clueless on how to get this bunch of players playing as a team.

There is no way Tony F is going to sack him this week. He would look completely stupid in light of all his recent comments. But I feel anything but a win next week against Southampton will see him go

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Nov77 added 00:33 - Nov 11

Melaka, who do you think set up the chance for Granero?
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MelakaRanger added 00:39 - Nov 11

True at times he has a spark of brilliance but far too often he is selfish and doesn't think. He should have scored last week but chose to be 'clever'. He should have scored this week but chose to be 'clever'.

If we were in the top 10 you could perhaps excuse such behavior but rooted to the bottom we need team players not showboating individuals.

We will only get out of this mess if we play as a team, so far Adel and regrettably many others do not play as members of a team.
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Kaos_Agent added 00:54 - Nov 11

Lots of possession means nothing if we can't create scoring opportunities and then finish them. This team has looked unconvincing all season in the final third. The result is particularly annoying given that MH finally fielded the side that we wanted to see.
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Dennick added 01:58 - Nov 11

Agree with Melaka on Taarabt, Bosingwa frustrates the life out of me he gives the ball away so often and I doubt the chairmans "total support" speech will feature again for the current managment group. I'd like to see us get Raheem Stirling back or someone of similar talent and age and build a team round them, to many playing for their retirement to do QPR any good at the moment.
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MelakaRanger added 05:19 - Nov 11

Yes Dennick. Bosingwa blows hot and cold. Its like he is simply here for the ride. He looked great on paper but in real life hes shown to be less than satisfactory.

There's a reason why the 'stars' that QPR have picked up recently have not had their contracts renewed or have been let go - Barton, SWP, Ferdinand, Bosingwa, Green, Zamora, Park to name but a few.

But in all of this I feel for Tony F. He has backed the manager, he has backed the players (paying them fortunes) and tried his best to encourage Hughes and his entourage, yet bottom with no wins is his reward. If this performance had been from Air Asia staff and management I am sure they wouldn't still be employed by Air Asia!!

Next week is looking even more like the make or break game for this season. Even Tony is saying its a 'must win' so I guess he too is considering it to be decision time next weekend

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QPRNZ added 05:50 - Nov 11

You would normally say that this was a good away performance, and that QPR deserved at least a draw, but the preceding 10 games colour this feeling. At last we got the line-up everyone has been asking for with Granero, Diakite and Faurlin all in midfield. To me it seemed to have the desired effect, although there still seems to be a dearth of clear cut chances produced up front. I thought we defended well although once again an awful goal conceded where we had at least 3 chances to clear. I feel less despondent this week despite the result although time really seems to running on whilst we wait for the results to come. If we carry on playing like this surely results must start to come!!???
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snanker added 10:58 - Nov 11

QPRKiwi......wishful thinking,fingers crossed scenario is a sign of the times desperate reach coz if it wasn't for your compatriot showing antipodean spine we wouldn't even have 4 points on the board ! Hughes is rapidly on his way to becoming the new Brian Robson in managerial terms ! What's Brian up to these daze, maybe MH can touch base for a pep talk !
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Doughnut added 11:21 - Nov 11

This team haven't got a win in them. You can see it every weekend. We've been playing since early August and STILL haven't won a game! I actually didn't feel the usual hurt yesterday, I've become insensitive to defeat and that bothers me. What does it take for the penny to drop?? This guy's a loser and will take our team down with him if something isn't done very soon. Yes, 'much more possession', 'right team'....'not getting the results we deserve, 'unlucky''....blah blahh...blah
We've played 11 games, nearly a third of the season, with MH. Can't afford to squander any more. A new manager is a must, but a haunting thought, that troubles me more and more every week now is.... is this team good enough?? I know on paper it should be, but is it?? Or do we have a team not good enough for the Premier League, despite all the millions lavished on it?
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e1337prodigy added 16:14 - Nov 11

Same old story. We are not taking our chances. Saw Swansea's highlights last night, Nathan Dyer had one chance and took it. We are not taking ours, either poor decision making or just terrible shooting/ball control. Also there were a few times when a QPR player would run at Stoke defence and no other players would support him. Just all stand there ball watching. MH did nothing wrong as far as I can see, picked the right team, right tactics. Everything was going well, just one poor mistake and Stoke take there chance and we didn't take ours.
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derbyhoop added 19:39 - Nov 11

Our season in 90 minutes. Good possession football, not enough threat, one mistake, one goal conceded. Game over.
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frannybill added 11:53 - Nov 14

A total disgrace!! Toothless forward line, artless midfield, too narrow all night! Not 1 shot on target all 2nd half, despite chasing an 'extremely important £18000 for a win'. Perhaps the players should have been told this, rather than the supporters? No other manager in the league would offer Cavanagh a shirt, let alone pay him wages!!
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jmart391 added 21:42 - Nov 14

Did we test their keeper ,if we did I didn,t see it.It was a terrible performance and I don,t want to sit through that again.Does Coleman think only scousers can play football if so why does he keep signing the ones that can,t.
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Kaos_Agent added 17:00 - Nov 17

Omnishambles.
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R_in_Sweden added 17:15 - Nov 17

Considering the so called importance of the game that was undoubtedly our worst performance of the season. The third goal was an even bigger shambles than the first. A team with no heart apart from a few signs of life notably from Taarabt (again). And now the classier players like Granero are even being sucked into the quicksand.

Hughes has no choice but to resign after that utter disgrace, we were taken apart. I just hope that Tony has someone suitable lined up.
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newgolddream added 17:36 - Nov 17

We R a laughing stock. 4 pts from 12 games and Man U next on the list. Mark,please don't embarrass this proud club and yourself another further and RESIGN!!!!!
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e1337prodigy added 17:58 - Nov 17

WTF was that!? All this talk about "must win game" and we looked worse than ever, I would love to know what pregame talk MH gave... MH can't be blamed for all of this, the players have to take responsibility too. That's twice I have heard commentators say "why do teams play zonal marking, it doesn't work", and they are right.. Reading won too, at this rate we might be relegated before February, at least we will break a record for the quickest team to get relegated from the premier league. I was going to buy my dad a ticket for Christmas, but now that just seems mean; I'll just give him the money and he can get that black and decker drill instead. Pathetic.
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quickpassrotter added 18:04 - Nov 17

That was an absolutely shocking performance. We have gone further backwards. Versus Tottenham, first half a few weeks ago we looked like a good outfit - now we look like a complete shambles. Whilst certain players are simply not playing for the shirt - no surprise, what do they care - Hughes has got to take the blame overall. He has to go - and if Tony is really smart he should do it now and give a new Manager just a little chance of starting to save our season, although I think already it is too late.
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Doughnut added 18:16 - Nov 17

Hughes OUT NOW!!!!!! Harry IN NOW!! Before someone else snaps him up. Every week with Hughes is another nail in our coffin. Get rid of him TF and give us a chance of survival!!!
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BeauRanger added 19:06 - Nov 17

Well looks like MH et al have not so much lost the dressing room as cast it adrift on a desert island! He say's the team is too passive & lacks intensity, where do they get that from I suppose??? Get them running run the scrubs @ 7:00am on Monday morning that might wake them up a bit!

How many are Man U going to get next week, Ashley Young probably won't have to bother diving..?
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BasingstokeR added 21:21 - Nov 17

It's worrying that players with genuine class like Granero seem to be getting worse under Hughes :(
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Rowanranger added 21:24 - Nov 17

can't rate them cos I could'nt watch...
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newgolddream added 21:38 - Nov 17

LATEST ODDS FOR SACK RACE AND RELEGATION

Mark Hughes 1/6 1/7 1/3 1/7 1/3 2/7

QPR 4/6 8/11 4/7 4/7 8/13 8/11

Forty seasons following ths great club and we might even finish BOTTOM of the table for the first time. Sort this mess out NOW please!!!!
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nat_tv_griff added 01:51 - Nov 18

Completely Loftforwords.
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Nov77 added 01:51 - Nov 18

Truly abject, players looked like the decision has already been made, didn't play at all. Only three players to emerge with credit from that game were cesar, nelson and taarabt.
I'm not sure Hughes and his Tafia could motivate a dog to wag its tail, get harry In now, if we're going down , let's go down fighting, not waving a white flag.
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MelakaRanger added 03:22 - Nov 18

Bottom - Not for the first time! We were bottom in 1969 but at least that team had guts and pride. I went to every home match that season and at least they tried their best every week. But they simply were not good enough - most of the players had been in the 3rd division team just 18 months earlier!

But they went down fighting. Unlike this mob!

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LostBoys added 04:48 - Nov 18

Good performance great day out in London
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QPRNZ added 04:58 - Nov 18

If that performance does not get Hughes the sack, then he has a job for life. All the usual complaints - shambolic defending with 6 chances to clear for the 1st Southampton goal, disjointed team play with no goal threat at all. Bosingwa has to take the claim to the worse performance by any QPR player this year - did he do anything right at all? But it would be wrong to pick out any one player - this was a team effort (or lack of). The only reason I can think of keeping Hughes now would be for Fernandes to cut his losses and refused to pay good money after bad. 3 months into the season and absolutely no sign of improvement.
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Harbour added 08:29 - Nov 18

awful performance we were never in the game credit southampton they were the better side for whole 90 mins. seemed rs had lack of fight or invention devoid of game plan when the r block starting singing your only here for the money apart from adele nelson mackie and derry they were right
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sexton added 09:17 - Nov 18

It's got to the stage now where I don't know who is a good player and who isn't. Granero was fantastic earlier in the season but now he's shot of confidence/sulking out on the wing.

Are they suddenly all bad players? Could they not give a fcuk?

Southampton's movement was excellent. What on earth is this 'meticulous preparation' that Hughes prattles about? They look like a bunch of players who haven't even been introduced.
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winchesterbob added 09:49 - Nov 18

Thought I had logged into a QPR site by mistook!! All the sad comments about MH. Nothing about the excellent performance of the Saints......... At last the football flowed and the Saints were unstoppable. Puncheon could have had a hatful
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francisbowles added 11:00 - Nov 18

It`s happened too many bad results and confidence and desire now totally shot. Now is the time to change manager.

New man would have two games where nothing is expected and time to review the squad before January`s window.

Players might care a bit more if they have to prove themselves to a new man.

What is Dave ` Harry` Basset doing these days? Think he might be up for a challenge? Only joking! I think?
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EssexHoop added 13:26 - Nov 18

I've now set up home in the "hughes out" camp. Was all for stability previously, but its clear the players are not playing for him anymore. Hughes said we can't get any lower than this, i fear we can!
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Cablestation added 16:09 - Nov 18

I live in Ireland and only get to see the extended high lights on Sky. Yesterdays game confirmed to me that the players aren't playing for the manager. I don't belive there is anythong Mark Hughes can do know, there are too many players just going through the motions and collecting their wages.
I don't believe Harry Redknapp would be the long term answer, why not take a risk and try and get Ole Gunnar Solskjar? He would be a lot cheaper than Redknapp.
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highlandbill added 17:40 - Nov 18

For me Ryan Nelsen was a hero among cowards. He fought & fought (always cleanly) & even got up to goal scoring positons when he could. Why is heart so big when he was a minor signing we all thought would be a backup player?He must keep the captaincy as he is the only credible candidate.Mackie to be Dep.
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highlandbill added 17:50 - Nov 18

At times on Saturday I just could not look.In the 2nd half it was so obvious that the players did not have a clue as to what they were sent out to do. At half time my mate said MH would have to give the teamtalk of his lifetime.Maybe he did not bother as he was too busy looking in his full length mirror. I guess the owners are reluctant to sack him due to the financial knock-ons.Theye need to bite the bullet as he has made it clear he will not resign. "I will fight on" !!! He has not shown fight in any game yet so that is bollocks.Adel,Jamie & Ryan played with passion and anger (the anger no doubt generated by some of the others on the pitch.) We need a clear out of all these free loading "footballers". Look at WBA,Swansea,Norwich & West Ham...we should be ahead of them on paper instead we wallowing in the merde. Hughes out for me.
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rolex750 added 17:32 - Nov 19

What I saw at palace Saturday was not a nice sight, yet again we play one up front, we looked clueless and and second best all round, It looks to me that mr Clough and co have run out of ideas if they ever had any in the first place. !! it is plain to see under this board and management we are heading nowhere, I can't see a point out of the next two games the way we are lining up with one up front, Salmon is not the answer, mr Clough it's time you gave Tyson a run up front with Robinson they can't do any worse, so come on Nigel wake up and smell the coffee!!!
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jmart391 added 10:36 - Nov 20

a much improved performance,the defence looked tight with Phil Edwards my man of the match.We still don,t score enough goals and finish teams off but we do look better up front with Grant playing.
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macro added 15:07 - Nov 23

When grant plays well, Dale play well
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newgolddream added 18:43 - Nov 24

A gusty performance from QPR and losing 3-1 was no disgrace after keeping Man U scoreless for over an hour. Might be a blessing than Harry witnessed our dreadful defending from set pieces and that playing a centre half at full back doesn't work. Incredible that Traore had to go off yet again leaving Mark Bowen with no options from the bench. Roll on Tuesday and the start of the fightback!!!
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e1337prodigy added 19:00 - Nov 24

Almost... watched the 1st half, missed Mackie's goal and started watching... then realised it might be best if I didn't watch in case I am some sort of unlucky charm... Still we lost... at least I know I'm not unlucky and I can watch them on Tuesday.
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antoknee64 added 21:46 - Nov 24

It was quite noticeable that when Traore went off that they exposed Ferdinand and took full advantage,shame it took AF 10mins to realise that fact.
Otherwise great performance and easy to swallow a defeat when we play well.
Well done Keiron Dyer showed hes class today hope & prey he gets a run of games,showed spirit ala Hill,Derry & Mackie.
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MelakaRanger added 22:06 - Nov 24

The game changed when Ferdinand came on for Traore. Until then we were looking comfortable.

Dyer very good. Hill, Traore, Nelson. M'bia again all good. Mackie never gave up

A good gutsy performance by most everyone. Shame Adel still cant kick a decent corner for love nor money. Still thats been a weakness of his game since day 1. We have got to stop wasting corner kicks!

OK we lost but at least its something positive for Harry to work with.

Same team for Tuesday?

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jo_qpr63 added 22:47 - Nov 24

Just been watching match choice.
Great seeing that team selection. If only Taraabt was on form. Mackie is great, a real handfull for defenders. Hill, Derry, the old pro's that will get in oppositions faces, wont take any rubbish from any one. Faulin bit classy.
We just don't punish teams.Clear to Rednapp as when we scored he didnt celabrate and seemed to say "watch out". He new what was coming next. But then again so did i ,and i know sweet FA.
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loftinoz added 02:02 - Nov 25

newgolddream
Did you mean 'gutsy', or were you refering to the weather?
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loftinoz added 02:06 - Nov 25

newgolddream
Did you mean 'gutsy', or were you refering to the weather?
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Kaos_Agent added 04:51 - Nov 25

That was the old Ale Faurlin playing. Sharp passing and wonderful tackles. Great to see. Overall a very encouraging performance by him and the Championship era players. Need some tall strong defenders next transfer window.
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Royboy48 added 08:47 - Nov 25

The replacement of the brittle Traore by Ferdinand changed the game – not the United substitutions.

It's all about the Al Pacino inches – a bit more from Cisse and Tarrabt and it was a possible point. Instead we got the steak knives.

No disgrace in this defeat, if Traore is fit then same starting 11 on Tuesday please


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Royboy48 added 08:55 - Nov 25

Seeing five of Warnock's winners starting the match reminded me why we won the Championship in the first place

Lest we forget last week, I'd also like to see Bosingwa training in Wormholt Park...
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newgolddream added 10:38 - Nov 25

GUTSY loftinoz . Good point bout the weather though.
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Dennick added 11:20 - Nov 25

As others have noted the loss of Traore changed the game, the performance of Derry , Mackie, Faurlin and Hill cannot be ignored they put some heart and backbone back into the team. Taarabt is not my favourite but none the less he is a tryer of late and his frustation is evidence of his will to win and lack of solid support.
Big Job for Harry to keep us up I fear, but I have some hope now where I had none last week.
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bishom added 12:02 - Nov 25

Great effort from the lads that played. Defence were superb and kept their shape well until the change. Since I saw the YouTube clip last week I can't get John Sitton's quote out of my head "You could light a Bunsen Burner under Anton's big toe and he still wouldn't sense danger." Never has a true word been uttered!
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francisbowles added 14:29 - Nov 25

That's more like it! Plenty of effort and fight. Being Picky Cisse needs to work all of the time not just now and then in a lone striker roll. Faurlin looked much better but he has always worried me when we lose possession he seems to tread water chasing back. Derry played ok but I think we need Diakite or Mbia alongside/behind Ali.

Typical Mackie performance full of guts, running and surprise.
Wonder if Harry and his coaches can improve Ferdinand and get the best out of Tarabt.

Seems like Sunderland used up their quota of mistakes yesterday, in a home defeat. It will be very hard on Tuesday as they will be anxious to avoid another.
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welwynhoop added 17:20 - Nov 25

Was wondering if anyone else thought Scholes was lucky to not get sent off? Commentator thought there were 2 bookable offences in the first 10 minutes.
Fingers crosses for Tuesday. Shame Arsenal and Newcastle didn't do us any favours this weekend.
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francisbowles added 18:38 - Nov 25

Just heard that Dave Sexton has died aged 82. He was one of our greatest managers with our 75-76 "champions for 10 days" and our first European campaign. Gerry Francis even tried to bring him back as a coach during his second managerial spell. On this weekend when we played another of his former teams Man U. those of us who are old enough will remember his achievements and what he did for our club.

Genuine condolences to his family and may he rest in peace.
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kingfisher added 19:56 - Nov 25

Bringing back the likes of Mackie, Hill & Derry added more metal into the team. Did so well right up until Anton Ferdinand came on. As soon as I saw him ready to come on at 1-0 up, I knew we would lose. 2 mins after he came on, Utd scored.....5 mins later we were 3-1 down. He really excelled himself this time! :-) I don't like to knock players, but still don't know why we let Gorkks go and replaced him with Anton Ferdinand. He has been one of the worse players I have ever seen in the Premier League and at QPR. Send him out on loan to League 1 or 2. Don't think he would get in a Championship team. Crazy, that all the money we have spent on players and it's the old guard that give us the most effort and are most effective. Hill is too slow at full back but still a great centre back for us. No fuss or ego, just gives his all. Like Merson said, he will run through walls for you.
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winchesterbob added 08:55 - Nov 26

Continuation from QPR against slightly better opposition. Toons hardly had a sniff against a very good Saints team effort. difficult to choose a MOM. Football played the way we all like it....very slick.
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LostBoys added 09:57 - Nov 26

Great all round performance - not the finished aticle by any means but superb effort
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MelakaRanger added 22:05 - Nov 27

Just watched live on TV 6am here

Not the team selection I expected but at least we kept a clean sheet.

Sunderland were a poor team yet we were pretty toothless once we got to the 18 yd box. I never saw us as dangerous once we had the ball. I just cant see where any goals will come from

I thought we played better on Saturday

But its a point. Its a start and now on to a win on Saturday
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AussieRs added 22:37 - Nov 27

Like MelakaRanger, watched it early here. Dire game. Guardian's MBM report descended into long discussion about worst games ever watched which gives some indication....
Glad somebody told Harry about Samba quick enough to get him off.
We clearly need somebody to put the ball in the net, tho Djib all alone for long periods.
Granero's passing has been poor over past few weeks. Where was Faurlin? Mbia starting to look almost YaYa like. Another great effort from Mackie.
NEED SOME GOALS.

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newgolddream added 22:39 - Nov 27

A solid start for QPR and Harry. A clean sheet away from is always very welcome. Massive game at W12 on Saturday next. Come on u R's!!!
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ozranger added 23:25 - Nov 27

I got to watch this from work. I must say I was starting to fall asleep at times. Our boys were playing the ball at an incredibly slow pace. When Sunderland woke up in the final few minutes we were punished for this. Cannot disagree with what has already been said.. we need someone to finish for us.

There was also a lot of walking around instead of chasing, ala Mackie. Why was SWP brought on instead of Hoilett? I also cannot understand why Mbia was moved to the midfield, even though he had a decent game there, when he was doing real well and enjoying himself at right back. Bosingwa again showed why he is incapable of playing at this level, unable to win any balls (did he not watch the game last week?).
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SonofNorfolt added 23:39 - Nov 27

Normally a decent point, but, they were there for the taking. I'll bet Hughes must be shaking his head.
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antoknee64 added 23:48 - Nov 27

Cant grumble at our first away point since Norwich.
Lot of positives to take from the game and plenty of chances.
Negative is as mentioned putting the ball in the net and god forbid anything should happen to Cisse.
Mbia was obviously happy to play hes proper position and ther he should stay.
Diakite needs working on,maybe play Ali instead on Saturday.
Would like to see Dyer (if fit) for Bossingwa.
Thurs & Fri shooting practice please Arry.
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Kaos_Agent added 06:08 - Nov 28

A dire game to watch. Two anemic offenses with few ideas. Why don't we just press forward all the time when we get midfield possession? This constant stopping and back-passing just kills any momentum and we frequently lose possession anyway so why not press ahead?

And well done Rob Green. You boosted your confidence and saved us a point.
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snanker added 09:00 - Nov 28

Ta for the reports all..............glad I didn't drag myself out of the cot for this one. Good mate (Gull's supporter) told me it was worse than woeful and thought an own goal each would have been a truer indication of both sides ability ! However as the already mentioned cliche goes it is a start & a clean sheet on a looooooooong road to redemption. AF not playing, Bosingwa on the pitch and SWP gettin anuvva sub run was a bit of a mystery ? Savin' the best for Satdee Arry ? Lets give u the benefit of the doubt. U must excuse my natural managerial questioning !! Ere's to knocking over those Villians as the next step forward !
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francisbowles added 09:38 - Nov 28

Saturday is a big day. It's a fresh start for everyone, fans included.

WHOEVER Harry picks lets give them a chance, our full support and not get on their backs at the first mistake. Confidence is low, recent events may have helped a little BUT it is still very FRAGILE.

If we don't get behind them we are doomed!

Remember those five home games last year and other games Chel**** etc when we have made a massive difference.

COME ON U RRRRRRRR's
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highlandbill added 13:42 - Nov 28

Now its over I have a negative feeling about last night. Did not see the game (listened on radio) but I understand that the team played with more energy but nevertheless played in the same way as before. I guess this was inevitable as a new Manager cannot change a style overnight.I have been trying to ignore the posters who are saying we will be relegated but after last night I find myself contemplating this as a possibility. I guess I had hoped/expected 3 points last night on the basis of a Harry "bounce" .We didnt get it, the big positive was the clean sheet. We desperately need that "bounce" and ASAP, the more time that elapses without a win the more we will be in the merde (for Joey).
For this reason I feel that Saturdays game is a season decider and the most important match so far . Lets all do our bit and make sure the noise lasts 90 minutes. If we lose I fear we are doomed...so Come on Superhoops!
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Doughnut added 18:52 - Nov 28

Onwards and Upwards with Honest Arry! Only heard it on radio myself last night and Messrs Green & Nevin seemed impressed with our performance. Still had a couple of near misses though,for our two gaolies to deal with, but sounded much less panicky apart from that. Defence seems more stable, as does the midfield with heavies Mbia & Diakite, doing the business. Just need some firepower up front, for that elusive win.If anyone can get us out of this 'merde', though, it'll be Arry.
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LostBoys added 09:33 - Nov 29

Very disappointing. Some poor performances compared to recent games. It was basically two men in Ricky and an extra man in m idfield and we couild not get round it. I am not convinced lard tub Holt warranted that number of defenders and Snodgrass was well maked by mt man of the match Luke Shaw
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winchesterbob added 10:15 - Nov 29

The one highlight from the match for me was Luke Shaw giving the bullying Snodgrass and Holt as good as he got. He is a very special talent.
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tsbains64 added 22:06 - Dec 1

great to see the spirit back in the Rs but shame its taken so long.
Should have won had the chances but just dont have that clinical instinct.
Cant understand why the defence just dont believe in each other-their goal was given to them!!
Mackie..can I add any more,greta spirit and led the way
I still have the faith and think that if we keep this spirit we can survive
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geraldo added 01:07 - Dec 2

Just seen their 3 goals again on TV and they were all a joke - time for Lillis to take a long rest methinks!!
How can JC take Kennedy off and leave Cavanagh and Edwards on the pitch?? I also think it is time to say goodbye to Adabola he just restricts the way we can play whilst adding almost nothing in contribution. We made York City look like Man City so I think the writing is on the wall for Coleman.........
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ozranger added 06:48 - Dec 2

Mackie needs to get more fitness. He was running out of energy towards the end :-) Yes there was some more fight to the team, but really, what else could we expect. The problem, however, is not the inability to score, which we all know about but the slowness of the passing. This is what put me to sleep with the Sunderland game (and that was at 7 in the morning). Villa must have seen the midweek game as they new exactly what was happening and took advantage of it. Still do not like either Bosingwa or SWP, but today they had some good points. Taarabt was poor in the first half and I actually thought he may have been subbed at the break. Still, his one real effort towards the left corner post in the first half was something to remember. As we all asked with MH, what is the story with Ale? Finally, hope Mbia is okay.
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Kaos_Agent added 08:08 - Dec 2

Lots to like about the performance but disappointing that all the possession did not yield more scoring chances. With hindsight I wonder if we should have brought on Cisse. For a change we spent a lot of time in the opposition end, and that's what he thrives on.

Under MH, not very good and not very lucky. Under Harry today, good but still not very lucky.

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LostBoys added 10:50 - Dec 2

Very disappointing we sounded very poor on the radio. Fair play to those who went.
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francisbowles added 10:56 - Dec 2

Great performance by Mackie. However, he must cut down on being caught offside

Surprise team selection but 10/10 for effort. Much improved performance from Bosingwa & SWP

Adel poor 1st half but very good 2nd.

On the negative side. What is wrong with Granero? Didn't look interested and rightly taken off.

Shame about the injuries as it upset our rhythm and stopped any chance of Cisse playing off Mackie, which would have been interesting.

With regard to AF lack of pace in the defence is a worry and Mbia & Diakite are much better at getting back. Derry is probably better at holding the position in front of the back four. After Granero's non show recently maybe Ali will get a chance in a more attacking role.
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DelBollo added 12:07 - Dec 2

One thing was made crystal clear yesterday: Something has to happen come January! 1: We need to bring in an experienced keeper that can handle the pressure of playing in the PL. 2: We MUST bring in a central defender with a bit more pace and composure than those we got. Both Yoshida and Fonte could do well alongside another quality defender, but the two of them together just isn't what is required at this level. 3: PACE! We must have someone with real pace, both up front and on the wings, if we are to pose any threat on the counterattack. And lets face it; countering will be our only weapon in most of our away fixtures this season. On the upside, Gastón really looks to be the real deal! Just needs to learn not to try and do everything by himself. The two youngsters, Clyne and Shaw will be real quality with just a bit more experience. Anyways, hope we absolutely murder Reading next Saturday! COYR!
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Royboy48 added 12:57 - Dec 2

Gary Lineker noted on MoTD that Harry had yet to Light The Blue Touch Paper

Lighting Blue Touch Paper is only relevant if executed before 5th November; it's now 2nd December...

It's Honeymoon period, but this marriage is Quick Wedding, Short Honeymoon, get home and fix the house. We're already boarding Easyjet back to Luton

From Team Selection it seems clear that Harry wants to try out everyone in Match conditions -so we are no closer to finding our best XI or best formation.

Seems to me Cisse couldn't come on because of Diakite's enforced substitution

But where is Faurlin ? - more effective and committed than Granero - not even on the bench.

Ozranger's observation on Mackie's fitness is way off track; try running for 90 minutes, up front, on your own, flat out. He's fit OK

Next up, Wigan away - after which there are 22 games left. Oh me of little faith - let's prepare for relegation, gratefully trouser the parachute payments - and get straight back up.

Well the Mayan 2012 calendar didn't work out - yet; let's hope I'm a similar failure as the Prophet of Doom
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musicandy76 added 13:49 - Dec 2

Awful, woeful performance. The only player wearing a Dale shirt yesterday was Rhys Bennett.
The football that is being played is nothing short of atrocious. Three incredibly weak goals; I try and support the team and not complain anymore otherwise I would just be another "Mr Angry", as its counterproductive, but even I bellowed my head off when that first goal went in!
In the end of the day, last season Coleman stated in inteview "Its my team that has gone down". If you use those words, then you are stating you are to blame. He inherited a very bad situation that Eyre left behind so gave him his due. But Im sorry, my patience is now running out. Under HillCroft, he was bringing in players that may have started average, and they were developed, and maybe sold on for a good fee. Who in our current team would you sell on? There is no development at the club at present. And that is very worrying. Fans in the Sandy no longer "go ape" when we score, its like watching pre season friendlies. The atomsphere round the ground is fading.
There are two possiblities here. We bring in fresh players in January and give Coleman till the end of the season, or we sack him. But to be honest the style of football is awful...
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highlandbill added 18:04 - Dec 2

Was surprised by the line up.Especially Mackie up front but he was OK. Yet again performance was patchy, Grenaro in particular just spluttering along. V surprised and a bit annoyed to see SWP on from the start,was there no alternative. He was a bit better than before & should have scored with only the goalie to beat. More all round effort, which is to be expected under a new manager,Boswinga in particular was much improved and several times realy put in maximum plus effort.
Tonight is seems that both injured players are OK,what a relief as Mbia & Diakite were our best players. Adel a bit quiet, nelesen ,a rock as usual,Clint Hill ditto.
I was really disappointed with the result as I felt a win was essential not just for the points but for morale ,which will not remain perked up unless that win comes ASAP. beginning to contemplate relegation but really there is still lots of games,we simply need to become a quite different team. easy eh Harry!
On the way home I met a bloke who has been going to matches since 1943..amazing!
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30yarder added 18:38 - Dec 2

Improved performance, getting a little worried about Mbia and Diakite though, both players look like they're one tackle away from either being sent off or injured, especially Mbia who for a big bloke, needs to man up.
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Harbour added 19:10 - Dec 2

mackie diakite ran the show shame we could not get second swp has a problem in front of goal he just cannot finish although hitting the post was unlucky noise around LR was fantastic lets make that noise every week. we lost our thread when mbia and diake went off
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WestEndBoy added 19:37 - Dec 2

Disappointed Mayuka didnt get on when we had nothing to lose-Especially when Carragher came on.We definitely need a commanding centre back in January,Yoshis distribution is poor and puts us under pressure. Fonte has improves greatly in the last few weeks but needs help.
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frannybill added 09:34 - Dec 3

Once again we are undone by reasonable play from the wings!! I ask again, when will the manager realise that a club without any wingers on the park are too easy to contain? The midfield continually had no outlet once in possession, other than to punt the ball upfield to an inept Adebola. We thoroughy deserved to lose that game, and that is very sad to see at home!!!
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14bowlers added 12:54 - Dec 3

I have been watching Rochdale afc for about 60 years now, but the football that is being served up by Accrington Stanley oops sorry I mean DALE, is probably the worst I have seen for a long long time. There is no purpose at all in how we play, what with no wingers to cover back, and without doubt one of the worst captains I have ever seen at Spotland. Cavanagh is not fit to play on sunday mornings in the junior league. Why oh why did he take JK off and leave his best mate on , nobody in the sandy could believe it.
I understand that we cannot keep banging on about Hillgate, but since he has gone ,we have gone down hill fast. three managers employed, not one of them with enough experience to keep up the enthusiasm that was created by hill.
If you take off the York contingent, our crowd on saturday was around 1900, surely not enough to pay the wages .
I agree with music andy76,and his comments re JC. The sooner something happens the better for Accr. sorry Dale.
Up The Dale
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jdalec added 13:46 - Dec 3

Totally agree with all previous comments, truly woeful. York City are a youngish side who cover ALL areas of the pitch, their left back was outstanding delivering cross after cross, that is what we need wide men who can take people on and deliver. Agree with comments regards Adebola...just not good enough. He puffs and pants about game after game and has given us very little (He has even stopped winning anything in the air !!) As for Cavanagh- well its a joke, why JK was taken off Saturday is unbelievable. Time for Coleman to ask some serious questions of himself
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slynch added 18:02 - Dec 8

Possibly the most one sided 1-0 victory I've seen?
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Royboy48 added 18:55 - Dec 8

Well done Rob and Ryan - men of the match for me. Rob Green saved us the point today.

Liitle more to praise though.

Defence under perpetual pressure because no there was no creativity, authority or possession in midfield - this is supposededly our strong suit.

We badly need more leadership in midfield, we need creativity, we need punch up front, we need to retain possession for more than 5 seconds and we need Bosingwa to leave and quite possibly another 10 to leave with him. I'll name them if you like, Harry. Not your fault they're here, but you are stuck with them. Are they faking commitment in training? Because it doesn't seem to show on match day.

On any other day a 2-2 away in Wintry Wigan would have been OK, but this was the third consecutive weak team we failed to punish.

What will happen when we come up against a good team?

Ten wins from 22 games? Not a chance.

PS another brace for DJ as our exiles and ex-es continue to flourish away from W12.





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LostBoys added 19:04 - Dec 8

A good performance and we dominated a poor Reading side. My only criticism is another game where our chances conversion rate was blow par. Happy bunny tonight.
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Clawsfour added 20:06 - Dec 8

Good result. Good performance. Good reaction by the crowd to the moronic booing of Guly do Prado.
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MelakaRanger added 23:12 - Dec 8

Wigan were a weak team yet they outplayed us easily

Again we never really looked dangerous within 20 yards of the goal

Bosingwa was playing like Wigans 12th man. He cost us the first goal by giving away a needless free kick. His attitude throughout was of 'couldn't care less'

We were very very lucky not to loose by 2 or 3 goals.

BUT that is 3 games unbeaten!

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geraldo added 23:23 - Dec 8

another very sloppy defensive display and how can anyone make Cavanagh MOM - BBM would be much better but then he is not a scouser so he has no chance It's time we gave another keeper a chance cos Lillis is an accident waiting to happen,
We are going nowhere with Coleman or Dunphy as Chairman - this duo have put the club back 10 years.
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Kaos_Agent added 03:00 - Dec 9

Nelsen MoTM for sure. Provided half the offense and generally carried the defense.

Cisse is the only one who looked convincing in attack. He reminded us that he is a scoring machine if we can just devise ways to feed him.

Oh wait a second, we knew that didn't we?
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Yorkshire_Dale added 12:08 - Dec 9

Paul Tisdale is far too clever for our resident thicko manager...he gets the BEST out of his players. Cureton was marvellous.Coleman blames Rafferty for the defeat!


All our lot were shite to a man.

Coleman has lost the Fans,the Players and most of all...his marbles!
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R_in_Sweden added 12:27 - Dec 9

We are truly f*cked with this squad and I think that Harry has already started to realise this. It is so painful having to watch this all unfold. Respect to the fans that made the journey. Ryan Nelsen is already player of the season, how can anyone surpass him now?
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musicandy76 added 12:57 - Dec 9

In Dunphys defense, he got us promoted! So I dont think Dunphy is entirely at fault here.
If Coleman needs to leave, I'm sure Dunphy will arrange that, and if that brave decision is made, then costs have to be thought of (i.e. terminating his contract etc, whether a payout would need to be made). Its not just as simple as sacking someone.
I have tried to stick by Coleman, but to be honest my patience is running out. Mainly due to the fact that he is saying we played WELL yesterday. That to me has alarm bells ringing
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jdalec added 15:51 - Dec 9

Shite, simple as that.
Hope Father Christmas brings Mr Dunphy a pair of bollocks then he might tell Coleman and Bell where the nearest bus stop is !!!
Cavanagh is a sunday league player at best.
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themodfather added 16:03 - Dec 9

green made many excellent saves..i said when it went 2-2 their guy was off, many said bosingwa played them on. but highlights i was have watched just now had their number 14 in front and in the 6 yard box, so interfering. just our luck!
nelsen was very good too. swp continues to let all down.
many expect wigan to be easy but even with a "weak" team, they never roll over
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francisbowles added 10:14 - Dec 10

The most disappointing aspect was that having taken the lead we gave it away so quickly, having completely lost our shape! That was very poor. Still I expect it's a situation we are not used to!

Apart from the defensive blunders not too bad performance wise, although outplayed for long periods we did hang in there.

Bosingwa, after getting better in the last match or two was back to his normal self here. SWP still trying, still frustrating us but the best pass Cisse has received this season and the closing down that led to it the probable reason that managers pick him.

Great performance by Nelson and he hit the target! But Green was excellent and mom for me. The big question can he overcome his nerves at Loftus Road?
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geraldo added 13:01 - Dec 11

Just read Dunphy's defence of Coleman in the Observer - it
looks like we are stuck with the bald headed scouser

Rumours abound that Jk and Tutte are going in Jan so we will be left with nothing but the Accy Stanley school of big boot and no width at all.
Seriously thinking of packing it in after Xmas......
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oddson added 17:39 - Dec 12

At last I could see saints play as they did against Man u,and Man c, I think its in there head,they are more afraid to loose than win.so I reale hope they can stand up and played good attacing football.
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geraldo added 17:42 - Dec 15

Yet another disaster against a team at the bottom - we will be lucky to get 1500 on friday
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newgolddream added 21:56 - Dec 15

Well done to all concerned. We were the better side by a country mile. Nine more wins required to seal the deal. U R's!!!!
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snanker added 23:43 - Dec 15

Our father who art in...........thank you for that slice of luck that has been avoiding us all season ! Desire,want,determination bring their own rewards and Harry and the team really deserved that win today as testament to recent results and a much improved general change in attitude. AT, well as long as he is on the park u never know and what a catalyst these 3 points could be leading up to X-Mas and the new year. Lets get the bit between the teeth and let the Premiership know we are QPR & here for the long haul. U R'sssssssss
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geraldo added 01:26 - Dec 16

Sorry to post again but i have just seen the goals on tv and it re-inforces the point that Cavanagh should not even be on the pitch let alone be capt. In addition we also have so many players who are just not good enough ( Donnelly and M c Intyre) but who make the team because they once played for accy. This management team are a joke but the biggest joker is Dunphy who is letting this situation persist. I will not go on Fri ( why should I) and will prob not go again until we rid ourselves of this accy/ scouse curse
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MelakaRanger added 02:26 - Dec 16

Finally we played as a 'team'

Fulham just didn't turn up today. They were on the pitch in body, not in mind.

After the first 10 mins I thought this was going to be the same old QPR just not taking their chances but finally we seized the opportunities offered to us.

Lets not get too carried away yet but hopefully this will do the players a power of good and they too will start to believe.

If Tony still has doubts about the sacking of Hughes the past 4 games vindicate his replacement and the fcat that he should have gone even sooner.

3 draws and a win from 4 games. Well done Harry. Well done team
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ozranger added 02:56 - Dec 16

Could not agree with you more Melaka, Fulham were absolute sh*te. It was only that we were in this predicament that they were even in with a sniff. Now that the monkey is off our back, there is a desperate need to consolidate. First stop is Newcastle.

And as one who is very much anti-SWP, he definitely had an above-average day for sure. Still a long way to go, but I will be the first to admit he wasn't all too bad. Good to see Ale play, but he needs more time on the field to get his mojo back. Overall a decent performance, but, as said above, nothing to get carried away with.
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Kaos_Agent added 03:45 - Dec 16

Today we finally got some bounces going our way. Huge win for confidence and team-building.

Good outing from AF. Hope he stays in, as there would have been no quality service forward without him.
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14bowlers added 10:51 - Dec 16

agree 100% with geraldo
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R_in_Sweden added 10:57 - Dec 16

Great first 15-20 minutes, then the passing got scrappy and the game stumbled towards half time. Full credit to the team for picking it up again after the break. Nice to see Faurlin involved and finding his feet again. All of this just shows what a total incompetent Hughes was. Fulham weren't at the races yesterday and were very poor.

Oh and of course great performance from Adel with a fantastic finish for the second goal. He should also be able to choose the African Nations without a guilty conscience, although there are many of us that hope he doesn't.
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francisbowles added 12:20 - Dec 16

Good summary by R in Sweden. AF though gave the ball away far too much and is too slow to track back as shown with their goal. Onuoha seems very nervous with the ball and can't wait to get rid of it but still a huge improvement on Bosingwa.

Tarabt almost a ten with great performances also from Mbia, Nelson and Hill. SWP and Green very good. Good performances and effort from everyone.

Fulham totally surprised with our line up, I thought that they would adapt and cut down Adel's space but they didn't seem to!

Can Adel play like that again?
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bloberts added 12:38 - Dec 16

What a performance! Every player played their part and worked hard for the team.
Was worried after Mackie missed that sitter and i think that effected his confidance during the game as he didn't have his best game on the ball but as always worked brilliantly off it!

Its only the start but if we can stay unbeaten until january i will be well pleased against three teams short on confidance!

Just as hout out to Mbia, met him before the game, what an absolute gentleman!

UUUUUUUUUUUUURRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRR'SSSSSSSS
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quickpassrotter added 17:21 - Dec 16

What a relief. Thoroughly deserved. All the players worked really hard. We will only get better further, under Harry. We have given ourselves a chance after this.
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bradleydale added 18:13 - Dec 16

I haven't yet seen the goals against Rochdale and if I'm being honest I don't want to.

I'm from Bristol and travelling up north next Thursday and fully intend to watch the match against Cheltenham. I fully understand the frustrations of all the fans but I do feel it's important to support the side.

Infact, I've got an idea that might help Mr Coleman and no it's not to tell him to hand in his resignation but simply this: why don't you give the players your half time team talk before the start of the match. It seems to me that Rochdale do not start playing until the second half begins.

Rochdale have always been my main team, as for me I'm from Bristol and my second team is the Rovers. I mention this as you may see a very distraught fan wandering in a complete daze if Rochdale lose and Barnet win on Friday.

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Doughnut added 18:26 - Dec 16

Hope springs eternal. Note that non-hacker Bosingwa was not even on bench! It's made for a surreal weekend.....a Win....not sure I know how to handle it? But I am doing. Good old Arry. Still far to go yet though.
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highlandbill added 18:32 - Dec 16

Whew! I turned to my mate at the end of the match & commented that this had been our Cup Final & Harry has echoed this feeling.Our best performance this season and at last we have a Manager who knows about players and how to get them doing their best. He has been in charge for only 4 games & already he has funadmentaly changed Adeles positioning and his role. Hey presto! He is once again the exciting and creative player we saw in the Championship. I wish to hell that Hughes had gone 4 games earlier as then we would maybe not be spending the rest of the season in a state of nervous tension.
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MelakaRanger added 23:59 - Dec 22

Oh dear

How different to last week was that?

So much sloppy passing. Granero just didn't want to be there. Ferdinand showed how poor he is too. Cisse is so off form and Adel made as many sloppy passes as good ones. Green is still a disaster waiting to happen

And as usual once we got within 20 yards of goal we were toothless

As usual Nelsen was a pillar of strength. MOM!

Yes the conditions were awful and for 80 mins we contained them but we never ever looked like scoring a goal. A fair result at the end

Last weeks team had better turn up against WBA or we are in trouble
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Dennick added 00:38 - Dec 23

Not much to be encouraged about after another sub-standard display, defended Ok at times but failed to hold the ball in the middle and I dont think we were able to really worry Tim Krul at all. Nelsen is the most consistant performer in the team and Mbia puts in a decent effort but the rest are not showing enough to play league one. The reasons for playing Granero and Ferdinand are not obvious but the reasons to move them on in january are, along with Bosingwa, Cisse and Park if anyone will take them.
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LostBoys added 02:10 - Dec 23

We were really poor today against an even poorer side who tactically outmanoeuvred us. Very disappointing
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QPaRmchair added 07:16 - Dec 23

My first live game of the season. Finally got to see a different point of view on a game than having to rely on shoddy internet streams and biased MOTD highlights.

Thought the game overall was extremely poor. The Championship game between both sides in 2009 which I was also at, offered a better 90 minutes of quality than the dribble we saw yesterday.

You can tell both sides lacked confidence.

I thought Nelsen and Hill had Pappiss Cisse in their pockets. It was only when Ameobi came on in 2nd half that the game had some life to it.

Fabio got turned easily too many times, but also made 3 important challenges, one superbly in the first half to prevent a one-on-one with Green.

Mackie's workrate was superb as always and Mbia provided a good link in deep midfield. He did try and get us to keep the ball at times, but our transitional play into the final third was abysmal.

I don't remember us having a shot on target other than Taraabt's free kick in the last minute.

When we did attack, everyone made bad decision after bad decision.

Mackie did his best to lead the forward line after Cisse went off for us but we could really do with a bigger man up front. Like a Peter Crouch or a Kenwyn Jones for example.

As poor as we were, I thought Newcastle were pretty bad themselves and if it wasn't for Ameboi, this game would've been 0-0 regardless of how long was played.

Can only think 'Arry is waiting for January to make some neccessary signings this team needs. We need a solid spine. Personally, I'd love Chris Samba or Michael Dawson for defence, Crouch for up front with also DJ Campbell getting another chance too.
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Kaos_Agent added 07:37 - Dec 23

This team leaves its mojo behind every time it gets on the train. When we had possession in good areas we either gave the ball away, went stupidly offside, or else for no apparent reason passed it back and lost all momentum. Atrocious passing. Thought we would eke out an ugly draw mainly courtesy of Nelsen, but did not deserve it, frankly.
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johnno added 10:13 - Dec 23

I can't argue with any of the points made. In the defensive third we battled hard (and rode our luck) . In the middle third were poor and the top hird was pitiful. Clearly a single goal conceded costs at least 2points and more often three.

The task ahead appears much more difficult than it did a week ago. Not because we dropped another three points, more the off field dramas that are becoming more public and certainly very divisive. Harry and a number of his charges are on a collision course.

Reading Wigan and Southampton face the same challenges but appear to be far more together than the R's. With the possible exception of Guthry at Reading, they are behind their managers. I think Harry has lost a number of the players (not a criticism) and will need to ring the changes in January if we are not to get more of the same. In closing I honestly believe Harry and his management team are the right people for the task,although they might consider assigning the post match interviews to someone else. Harry is to raw immediately after the final whistle.
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Royboy48 added 11:59 - Dec 23

Looked like a poor game on my Sky Bulgaria feed or whatever it was I found on Wiziwig

Puzzled by some selections, why not start with last weeks X1?

The problem with Granero is he only looks good in brief moments of inspired passing, otherwise he looked lazy and there were too many sub-par performances from Ferdinand, SWP, Mackie, Cisse and Faurlin

Tarrabt looked like he put in a real shift - but only once turned on the switch marked 'magic'

2 steps forward 1 step back
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daveB added 16:11 - Dec 23

I thought we were well organised and hard to break down but looked like we had settled for a point before half time, a bit more attacking ambition from the players in the second half and it could have been different.

Can't fault the effort but we don't look good enough
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bradleydale added 16:19 - Dec 23

A very comfortable win, could easily have been two goals up before the two spectacular goals went in prior to half time. I very good performance, some of the attacking play was very impressive and Dale will always score goals if they maintain that style of play.

I thought Dele was very impressive, in as much, he's a footballer who knows how to deal with the long high balls played to him. I'm glad he scored and it's a pity he didn't beat the goalie when he was through on him.

I don't know why the long high ball was played to Dele's replacement, George Donnelly, as in my opinion he will struggle
against a centre half.

My only real concern was the attendance, there is no way a club can survive on crowds of 1600.

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wjohn228 added 15:43 - Dec 26

Poor team selection from Warnock contributed to throwing away 3 points. Starting with Austin was a mistake. Dropping Norris was a mistake and starting with Brown was a mistake. Becchio had a great chance to,head. the ball down to Diouf who would have had an open goal to make it 2-0. As often happens with Becchio he made the wrong decision and the chance was lost. Lees made some poor decisions nd was at fault for two of the goals. Sorry but Tom will never be a top class. central defender. He could walk into any League 1.team but that's as far as it goes. Diouf and Thomas were.anonymous. Tatead his worst game in a Leeds shirt. He is far too slow. Deity and Green acquitted themselves. Forest were very. average but were quicker than Leeds. It's worrying that with so many old legs in the team we always run out of steam with 20 minutes to go
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Dennick added 02:09 - Dec 27

Stephane Mbia could end up as a cult figure, huge effort from him today and some interesting characteristics.
Overall a fairly disappointing first half (again)whatever Harry has been saying at half time needs to be said before the game, good to see SWP getting back to some reasonable form and Hill & Mackie as usual put in a decent shift, I thought we deserved at least a point and all three would not have been "nicked"
Foy (and assistants) were dreadful throuout which I find unusual for him, he's fairly solid as a rule.
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jo_qpr63 added 03:03 - Dec 27

Bad ref/linesmen decisions.We had our chances but we did not take them. As for the Rob green goal, it was a foul on him but i think Rob greens rep went before him and the the ref thought he bundled it in. Strange goal because if had someone pushing me back as the ball dropped towards me on the goal line ,i would of punched the offender in the back of the head. Lightweight goal.
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ThermosNBlanket added 09:01 - Dec 27

It took 78 minutes for the manager to see what nearly everyone in the crowd could see that the shocking tactics were not working.
Lambert cannot play up front on his own in this league, none of our midfield are capable of getting beyond him for any headers he wins.
Jayrod should of come on after 60 minutes at least and we may have even won this game.
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francisbowles added 11:26 - Dec 27

Having watched it again on MOTD, Green should have been stronger but it was definitely a foul as the attacker was sticking his backside into him. From my position in SA Rd I initially thought that Green was slow to get down for the first goal but it was a great strike from a player who has always been a threat from similar positions. Green actually had a reasonable game as did SWP and even Ferdinand.

First twenty minutes we shaded it and then a goal from nowhere. We then started giving the ball away and WBA looked a good passing team.

Great finish from Cisse, shame we can't give that sort of ball more often and we really should have got something from the game. Handball looked pretty obvious but they defended like we used to in Championship days i.e. getting bodies in the way.

Like last season we aren't making it any easier by losing the games we need three points from.
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30yarder added 12:23 - Dec 27

No lack of effort but sadly not much quality.
Green is always one shot away from a mistake, Fabio and Traore couldn't get forward,Ferdinand's shot to pieces, Faurlin's walking in quicksand,Taarabt had an off day, Mbia is red mist man, theres no forward on the bench and our best player in this match began his carear in 1997 playing for Tranmere.
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REEDYREEDOREEDZ added 17:27 - Dec 29

Awful result in the end. At 3-1 up we should never have drawn this game. We had a whole season's worth of luck in one game and it still wasn't enough for 3 points. Very worrying.
A fantasic cross from Guly for Lambert's opener, and then a huge amount of luck for our 2nd and 3rd goals.

In the 2nd half, why did we keep pumping long balls forward when there was an easy short pass on? Surely Adkins should've told them to try and keep hold of the ball and slow the game down? Adkins' tactics in the 2nd half we're questionable to say the least! It seems he has no clue about how to see a game out.

The turning point was the open goal that Guly missed. It was an absolute sitter and would've put us 4-1 up. Then a minute later Stoke had pulled one back and it was 3-2.
We had even more luck when N'Zonzi was sent off and then moments later Stoke should've had a clear penalty for handball by Fonte.
This is why we are going down. More dropped points from winning positions. We should've beaten Man Utd, Swansea, Norwich and now Stoke. We keep throwing points away and its going to catch up with us. In the bottom 3 now and in serious danger of going down. Can't keep throwing points away.

Saints must buy a keeper in January. Davis was shaky again and his kicking was atrocious!
At least Jack Cork is showing what a great player he is. Tremendous once again in the middle.
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slynch added 18:10 - Dec 29

REEDYREEDOREEDZ is mainly correct :-/
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slynch added 18:10 - Dec 29

REEDYREEDOREEDZ is mainly correct :-/
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LostBoys added 18:15 - Dec 29

Nothing to add to the earlier report apart from taking off an attacker against 10 men leaving them to reduce at the back as well. This could prove to be a crucial 2 points
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joetaylor added 18:29 - Dec 29

There should be a way of registering minus numbers for the likes of Howard and McLeod
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Bulgarian added 22:18 - Dec 29

I fully understand the disappointment of the points dropped and 2nd half performance, but in terms of football logic this was a good point gained and an OK overall display.

It's very very easy to point what tactics NA had to introduce halfway through the 2nd half, but he had a clear game plan and everybody stuck to it. All we can do is accept their equalizer as it was - just stunning, out of nowhere (as we accept our 2nd and 3rd).

The penalty: it was definitely not foul play by Fonte - at least to the extent the press reports say. It was definitely unintentional as Fonte didn't move his arm towards the ball and Jones's head was right there, probably making contact with Fonte's hand.

We still got to learn in the Prem and we all should give ourselves a little more patience and mature as fans: yes NA could have tinkered with players/tactics but I think it would have had an even worse effect - Stoke were really determined and wild in the air, absolutely motivated, their fans were (like ours) amazing and it was their wondergoal that did them justice. However we are not far away from showing a mature, professional display from start to finish. What I like in our side is that in most of the games we show real spirit, no one can deny that and that's really important. Results will come, believe it or not.
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geraldo added 23:35 - Dec 29

what a great display and credit to JC that he went with 3 strikers When we played the ball on the floor they had no answer to our forward play and we scored 4 cracking goals. JK totally shut out Jonah and Cavanagh had the best game I have seen from him so far.The defence is still a worry tho and the first pen should never have happened as Lillis already had the ball in his hands!!
If rumours are true and JK is on his way out then we will lose the best midfielder in this div.
The second good news of the day was Hill's sacking as he was always too big for his boots....
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REEDYREEDOREEDZ added 14:19 - Dec 30

The Fonte handball was a penalty. You can't jump with your hand above your head. He was very lucky to get away with it.

Looking at the fixtures, in the coming weeks we've got away trips to Aston Villa, Wigan and Newcastle. We can't afford to lose any of these games and we probably need to win two of them.
The games against Arsenal, Everton, Man Utd and Man City can be seen as a bonus if we get a win in one of them. 4 points would be a great return.
By the end of February, we could be cut adrift in the bottom 3, or be heading towards safety. Some big games coming up!


Premier League Southampton V Arsenal Tue 1 Jan

FA Cup Southampton V Chelsea Sat 5 Jan

Premier League Aston Villa V Southampton Sat 12 Jan

Premier League Southampton V Everton Mon 21 Jan

Premier League Man Utd V Southampton Wed 30 Jan

Premier League Wigan V Southampton Sat 2 Feb

Premier League Southampton V Man City Sat 9 Feb

Premier League Newcastle V Southampton Sat 23 Feb
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MelakaRanger added 01:38 - Dec 31

This was a "team" that wouldn't even be able to compete at mid Championship level

This just isn't a team

Harry has been asked to do an impossible job with a club that has been destroyed by the actions of its previous manager

I know we should 'never say die' and the manager should try to get the non / under performers to perform. But most of them refuse to and so he will not be able to.

Mark Hughes' 10 months in charge have set the club back 3 years, as that's how long I think it will take to build the team back up and gain promotion again

But I expect Tony F to have a last throw of the dice in the window. I only hope that for every one that comes in, at least one goes out. Otherwise we will go bankrupt! Why? Well Tony F may be a rich man but he's not that rich and his wealth has limits!

In 50 years of supporting QPR I have seen inept players, overpaid players, under performing players and players who couldn't give a monkeys. But never have I seen so many of these at the same time, in the same squad.

The table never lies and we are by far the worst team. January and July must be times for massive clear outs and the start of a gradual rebuilding exercise

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highlandbill added 09:15 - Dec 31

Oh dear! I go to each game hoping to see the spark of revival and go home with my heart in my boots.
Our performance was so so poor, Rednapp is clearly having difficulty with this disfunctionable bunch of players. God knows what the dressing room is like but on-field they just dont want to know about each other. SWP & Cisse were terrible! As usual only Mackie,Hill,Nelsen & Mbia (+Derry when he came on) were remotely interested in playing with some pride if not skill.
It has to be admitted that Suarez (who I loathe) was on fire. He is the best player I have seen all season.His desire is something to behold. Even in the 2nd half when the rest of Liverpool were just strolling around he was hassling and buzzing about as if they needed more goals to win.A top top class player,pity he is an arsehole. On the latter subject we have quite a few of those among our supporters. Do "fans" really think it will improve matters to slag of their own team with "ironic" chants? It really pisses me of when frustration is expressed in a way which is bound to add to the teams lack of effort/morale.
Harry is still talking us up, admirable but I fear he must feel like the rest of us...totally gutted.
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shooters47 added 10:39 - Dec 31

Highland Bill, agree with most points but could you tell me how the so called "fans" should react?
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qprninja added 10:43 - Dec 31

Upsettingly bad performance yesterday, our Championship winning side would have given liverpool a tougher game than that, the lack of effort and application is shocking. You could tell by the demeanour of the players as they stood waiting to kick off that they weren't up for it, Cisse was utterly disinterested all game. I cannot stand the petulant miserable look on rob greens face as he sulks on the bench. Looking down the squad list it's hard to pick many players that I'd want to keep and the ones that I do want to keep are from the championship team . Not since the days of Ray Harford have we had so many mediocre players on undeservedly long contracts, now we can't get rid of them. I'm worried about the clubs plans for January as well, rednapp talks about not spending if it's not worth it, I just hope the paper talk of 20m being spent is just talk. Here's hoping for some miraculous work by Harry in the transfer window because with this current lot we're knackered.
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probbo added 11:13 - Dec 31

Harry was remarkably upbeat about our prospects after the game and credit to him for staying so positive after that display - but unless he can get a couple of inspired loan signings in the transfer window, its all looking very bleak for the R's. Chelsea and Spurs up next - doesn't get any easier!

Good point above Meleka about one in one out - I just can't abide the prospect of having any more overpaid losers bloating the squad.
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francisbowles added 11:24 - Dec 31

Better to say nothing than some of the comments/songs? that were heard yesterday. I am frustrated like everyone else but it lacks dignity and doesn't help those who are trying.
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ozranger added 11:29 - Dec 31

Not wanting to labour over any of the points already made here, there are some other interesting items that should be mentioned, if not gleaned from this match. First off, the ref was very poor, and that is basically hidden by our own pathetic display. I only counted three hand balls he chose to ignore and numerous other incidents where I felt he was wrong. Secondly, Granero was probably put on by HR as his last chance, which he, of course, blew. He could be one of the first to go and certainly there will be teams interested in him. There will be a loss to the club (remember he came in on £9m). Thirdly was the SWP situation. My guess, but I cannot read HR's mind, is that he really did not know what to do with this fool, or for that matter, who to replace him with. There cannot be any other answer as to why he was still on the park until the 80th minute. While the team itself was abjectly horrendous, SWP more than epitomised the state of the season and the self-nutmeg was the perfect exclamation point.

Yes, I too read of the potential £20m. Personally I would rather go looking for some youngsters and commence rebuilding. While I see everyone is praising HR, I will restate my belief that he is not the right man and that when he arrived it was too late - the team was already poisoned and any real chance of survival was pretty well extinguished. I really wonder if HR will want to manage in the Championship for a couple of seasons while we rebuild back to the Premiership?
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cranieboy added 11:38 - Dec 31

It was all very embarrasing, esp' mbia`s theatrics. Traeore was left very exposed and Liverpool didn't have too difficult a pass under no pressure to find the spare man. It improved with Derry coming on, at least he got on the ball and moved it on simply and kept possession, though he did get caught a couple of times, at least he was there. Nobody,in the first half, except Tarabbt wanted the ball and almost all ran away from the play instead of coming into it, leaving each player on the ball to try and run with it and then lose it. Add to that some very bad decision making with killer/final balls and we had very little to get us out of our seats.
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R_in_Sweden added 12:03 - Dec 31

I think some fans have adapted a Life of Brian - "always look on the bright side of life" stance. We were crucified in the first half yesterday. I personally cannot blame people for being ironic with their chants, maybe it's the only way to make the penny drop for some of these intellectually limited, overpaid, spoilt losers.

Would love to see some energetic, talented, heart-on-sleeve players moving around Taarabt.

Harry's post match optimism belies our predicament, either he's a great actor or he's got something up his sleeve or maybe it's hallucinatory drugs in his system.
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hoops123 added 12:10 - Dec 31

That's really, for me, the straw that broke the camels back. We need to strip out those clearly not up for it and replace them with those that give a damn. Agree with ninja, Green's expression is one of total disinterest. I would suspect he gets perverse satisfaction with every goal Cesar concedes. SWP put effort in yesterday, but simply isn't capable of skinning players the way he could 5 years ago. Not good enough. Love Makie's work rate, but he simply hasn't got the class or guile that we need. Championship player. Bring in DJ for Pete's sake?!!

Change the formation. New centre halve to accompany Hill and Nelson (preferably Dawson) and play two wing backs. M'bia,Diakite and Granero/Faurlin in the centre.

Tarrabt too much of a luxury. Waiting every game for him to make the difference is killing us. His shooting lacks venom, hence a piss poor conversion rate. At some point he will come good, but we simply can't afford to continue waiting. We are not solid enough with him playing IMO.

SWP, Tarrabt, Green, Ferdinand, Mackie, Cisse need replacing but for different reasons. We know who we want at the club going forward and those that quite frankly.....we don't.

The cause is all but lost, let''s not throw good money after bad. Take a breath and face reality. if we are to get relegated, let's put ourselves in a position to build again without carrying excess dead wood.

Out of all of this, TF will not abandon us, but he needs some seriously good advise from someone with a head on their shoulders. Perhaps you should give him a call Clive, you talk more sense than most.

Thanks for sticking with it Clive, it is much appreciated by all. Regardless of what the next 12 months brings, I will continue to support our plight. We all will.....it's what makes us what we are. Urrrssss.
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themodfather added 14:39 - Dec 31

i won't swear but think of the word "hit" and add an s.
greatidea to stand off them and let them play, with time,space and not a tackle in the game! or so it seemed but hey don't let sense ruin a rant.
swp must go, now! and others can join him.
tf is to blame, cos he backed hughes and entrusted millions...hughes had to go after wba away, the new man had 2 weeks to get together with the team and sort things out, it's too late and always was. hope, yep it's a word alright.
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komradkirk added 15:10 - Dec 31

just shocking,no fight and when we tried harder the lack of ability was shown.
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smegma added 16:37 - Dec 31

I too don't agree with the 'ironic' chants during the game. After 90 mins is when the paying public should vent their collective spleens.
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30yarder added 16:39 - Dec 31

I know everyone is angry and frustrated with the R's at the mo and that is totally fair, especially after that performance against Liverpool. But i really really hope Fernandes does...well nothing much actually. Doing "not much" doesn't sound very exciting but it will be for the better in the long run...no Remy, no Cole, no Lampard, no Anelka (dear oh dear) no more overrated superstars please. If you want to add a centre half or a forward by all means do it. Maybe a loan defender and DJ back from Ipswich, but no more, throwing money at it is not the answer, surely everyone must know that by now...if Fernandes had just thought about it a bit more and done nothing last January, Warnock might still have been here.!!
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frankgrace added 18:13 - Dec 31

bad was worse in years not worth ticket money warnock guided players away from the fans at the end of the game he new how the fans felt sold out every were we play but not 4 much longer if we continue 2 play like we have in last 2 away games time 4 a change they r n w team how long will fans get behind nw i dont no
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McSmall added 09:11 - Jan 1

We have alaways prided ourseives on being a family club, with a rapport between the players and supporters.Due to the clear failures of Mark Hughes, this has now gone and is unlikely to reappear.
Sunday's match marked a new nadir in which a number of players showed no commitment or interest, despite the fact that most of them earn more in a week than most supporters do in two years.
It is one thing to buy a number of individuals, and another to meld them into a team, and to motivate them.This is the role of management and Harry cannot be expected to do this when Hughes lacked the fundamental skills of any manager in any profession.
I am dreading the prospect of Stamford Bridge on Wedenesday;it will feel like visiting a sick relative in hospital.
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sidsaint added 09:21 - Jan 2

I think this performance showed that we can make it in the premiership. A pity about the sloppy own goal because so many players worked their socks off yesterday particularly the defence and midfield. Some players had their best game in a Saints shirt. But we still desperately need a goalkeeper.
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tsbains64 added 10:36 - Jan 2

How bad can the team get?. The first half was absolutely hopeless. Less the attitude more the lack of skills that were displayed. Love Hils attitude but he needs to direct his players not just berate them! Second half was lot better but Liverpool just wanted to defend luckily. Whats worse is that Liverpool arnot that good-yet they tore us apart.
Whats the story betwwen Adel and Granero-they wernot not communicating on the pitch at all. Come on guys we need to pull togther...oh if only Barton could get his boots back on
Atmosphere was great but soon descended to the negative stuff. Think it will take a while to turn this team around-but if any one can then Harry can!Lets see who he brings in a coup,e of wins and we will be in touching distance of safety-COYRS!!
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LostBoys added 16:32 - Jan 2

Very pleased with this and some better shooting would have left us easy winners. The fact is that we stopped Arsenal from playing. Very good.
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bloberts added 21:50 - Jan 2

UUUUUUUUUUUURRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRR'SSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSS
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probbo added 21:57 - Jan 2

Wow, what an amazing result, and SWP of all people too! Funny old game! Joy after all the misery - its a great feeling!
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Addinall added 22:04 - Jan 2

Come on you Rangers!!!!!!!!!!
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cranieboy added 22:12 - Jan 2

SWP I still don't believe it. As Basil Fawlty would have said "We'd better have him stuffed"
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ozranger added 22:28 - Jan 2

Fully agree with you cranieboy. One goal does not make a player. The team played much better than against Liverpool, but still gave away the ball in the midfield or in their own half too often. Granero played a lot better. But when SWP came on I though down to ten men for 75 minutes. I think that there should be an enquiry as to why Hoilett did his hamstring so early in the game. Either he did not warm up properly or someone stuffed up. This should not happen. BBC were saying Taraabt was MoM, but I felt Fabio did real well at LB while most of the others were solid.

Nice finish, great result and if it (a) turns the club around and (b) turns SWP around, then we all cannot be happier.
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Grasshopper added 22:31 - Jan 2

Clive, judging by the end of the Liverpool report you should start predicting again.
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Doughnut added 22:46 - Jan 2

Madness !!!!!
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R_in_Sweden added 23:27 - Jan 2

Can't wait for Clive's match report, his brain must be in shreds.

You R'sssssss!
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UPPERLOFTNZ added 23:38 - Jan 2

I apologise. I was wrong! So happy about it oto!
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MelakaRanger added 03:37 - Jan 3

Unbelievable! Watched it live at 4am here.

Lets not underestimate how poor Chelsea were and the fact that we are still guilty of far too many sloppy passes and giving the ball away. SWP was poor for 85 min but magic for 1 min.

But a much better 'team' performance and I hope this is the beginning of a renaissance in our fortunes.

Lets also hope that by Saturday week we have one or two new proven goalscorers in the side.
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Kaos_Agent added 04:43 - Jan 3

Fairytale ending for SWP. Great to see how his mates celebrated with him. Can only hope that the confidence pays off. Impressive play by all, especially the back line and Adel, and we found some luck for a change.

Lee Mason MoM! No major errors and he pretty much gave us a free ride after he perhaps realized he should have produced a red card for the early foul on M'bia. Perhaps there is a greater plan after all, that he was to oversee this historic away victory.
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qprmick added 05:32 - Jan 3

First time I have seen SWP hit a ball while balanced, think Harry had a word with him about not rushing things.
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snanker added 07:31 - Jan 3

Stupefying Rangers. Just when u have about given them up for dead they pinch this result with that magic ingredient hard graft brings.....deserved lady luck ! This win will deliver further belief amongst the playing group and hopefully become the catalyst to go next at West Brom & then beyond ? A great West London victory for the R'sssss. On ward and upward roll on 2013 !
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geraldo added 09:16 - Jan 3

Can't see the point of bringing Donnelly on as a sub - he offers nothing and perhaps significant that they scored their first goal soon after.......
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HollowayRanger added 10:30 - Jan 3

great result for us finally a away win

but couldnt help feel that was about as good as we can play with those players ,while chelski were way way below par.

derry and fabio our two best players for me but good efforts from them all

and maybe finally we will get an improved swp from now on
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Dennick added 14:04 - Jan 3

I thought Chelsea were well below their best, while most of our players showed more heart and commitment than they have for most of the season.
Harry out-coached Benitez today
Taarabt was brilliant.
Hill & Mbia top effort.
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jdalec added 17:16 - Jan 3

Slightly disingenuous comment, Donnelly never stops running and offers some much needed muscle. It could have been worse we could have brought Adebola on !!
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smegma added 17:48 - Jan 3

The fans were owed that performance after the last 2 home games.
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bcfc1875 added 17:22 - Jan 5

Best wishes to Will Packwood who according to LC broke his Fibula and Tibula in today's game, gutted yet another injury.
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mattlegod added 17:46 - Jan 5

I dont think my nerves can withstand another game with Boruc in goal - he is a liability. A mate of mine was listening to 5 live extra says the commentators were very uncomlimentary about him questioning him as a Premiership keeper.....
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frannybill added 18:01 - Jan 5

Nothing short of a complete disgrace!!!! Seen better games in Sunday Pub League at Firgrove!!! Feel sorry for those spending their hard-earned cash today.
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jdalec added 18:38 - Jan 5

INVITATION TO ALL LEAGUE 2 TEAMS:
Please feel free to come to Spotland and help yourself to 3 points whenever you like !!!!

Regards,
John Coleman & Jimmy Bell(End)
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pnc4eva1 added 18:45 - Jan 5

Awful
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francisbowles added 19:24 - Jan 5

A bit of an unadventurous game with the teams pretty much cancelling each other out. A draw the fairest result.

An average performance from nearly all our players Caesar probably the best.

Will be interesting to see if Keiron Dyer is fit enough for the next game.

100% on the prediction front this year, Clive. Can you give us the score draws for next week, please?
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Royboy48 added 19:43 - Jan 5

I think Harry must have told the players " you can play where you want" such was the bewildering array of formations - definitely 3 at the back for a while in the first half while the second half delivered a cunning 4-2-2-2 for a while - which puzzled all of us in FL block.

A lot of this can be explained away by MBia's utterly bizarre display across the entire 90 minutes - duplications, errors and omissions overlaid on a rampant puppy-dog runaround punctuated only by ground-writhing from imaginary fouls

These performances remind me so much of David McCreery, a 1970's signing from Man Utd - totally dissimilar to our dear Stephane in stature but he was a player who would - in common with our new so-called 'cult hero' - approach every game with all the subtlety of an air raid.

Cult Hero? Bit premature that...

Anyway we're in the hat for the next round thanks to the second in our new series "Goals from the Unexpected" - a last gasp but very neat finish from Kieran Dyer.

Well done him!
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Yorkshire_Dale added 22:32 - Jan 5

Yet again Coleman and his mates let us all down....just not up to the fight again and again........this against the bottom of the league at home!

Coleman please leave now with a tiny,tiny bit of dignity!

You signed this lot...the buck stops with you!
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geraldo added 01:00 - Jan 6

Last week we totally outplayed Bradford by having 3 men up and supporting them from midfield - today we played one up against the bottom team and managed just one strike on goal!!
Why oh why do we bother to bring Donnelly on he is sxxxe and should not even be at the club.
I don't want Hill back but today was the pits and JC must go.....
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jonrog added 08:37 - Jan 6

What idiot designed our stadium so we have to give away our 12 man singing end on cup matches.
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Harbour added 09:29 - Jan 6

felt like a freindly match atmosphere at LR was non existent thought DJ and Tal did ok Cesar played a binder and saved us from certain defeat WBA are a good side with some quality. enjoyed Dyer scorng at the death shut up the smug wba fans
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SaintNick added 10:28 - Jan 6

It isnt the design of the stadium, its the fact that people choose to be next to the away fans
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LostBoys added 12:12 - Jan 6

Very disappointing second half performance. Mata had so much room he must have thought he had a personal freshness problem
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tsbains64 added 14:07 - Jan 6

Cesar was by far the best player and made a number of great saves-he is world class. Good to see DJ and Dyer back Surprised at Ben Haim did not want to attack the open spaces by perhaps Harry has a plan for him. Disappointed with Park-seems to lack confidence and is a sahdow of the M Utd player
Fair result but like another comment seemed like a friendly match If Rangers had dropped the prices further perhaps we could have got more kids in.
Feeling good for the future-I for one think we are on the right track to gte to 17th place by May
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faggy62 added 14:46 - Jan 8

Agreed, Geraldo. In my opinion, we are far too defensive at home with the midfield playing too deep and lacking creativity. As a result, our strikers are isolated and we invite the opposition to attack. I haven't watched Dale playing away this season but it looks like we put out the same line-up (and formation?) away as at home. Don't the most successful managers vary selection and tactics for home and away games and in the light of the likely opposition line up? In short, at home we play like an away side.
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Bulgarian added 17:27 - Jan 12

Villa looked dead and buried in the first 7 minutes of the second half. We didn't score a second and that is worrying - we gifted them the initiative carelessly, as you can't be 100% concentrated throughout the whole game. So this lead to Villa's desperate push in the closing stages. It looked as if their destiny was to kill themselves - had a couple of their changes were finished "normally", it could have been our logical and deserved undoing. A very lucky win indeed, but I hope it would work wonders for our confidence.

The Chelsea result makes me expect two scenarios on Wednesday: they will either take us by storm with a 3 or 4-0 ending, or will struggle to motivate themselves, thus giving us a chance for setting something of a surprise.

We really shold improve our attitude towards a second goal in matches of that type - otherwise it will be a very stupid loss of points this season. I don't expect so many heavenly gifts in the remaining games.

Nevertheless, a good approach from NA. I was somehow expecting to see Tadanari in the closing minutes, however given the circumstances De Ridder was the right substitution.

Final conclusion: we should really have more belief to keep calm and score more goals when having the lead.
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mattlegod added 17:32 - Jan 12

In contrast to last two weeks - well done Boruc - great performance!!”
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leedsalltheway added 17:38 - Jan 12

We are going nowhere. things need to change and fast.losing at barnsley says it all.team is not good enough.gfh need to do one
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francisbowles added 17:39 - Jan 12

Very good performance by team especially defence. Cesar and Fabio were exceptional.

The right set up and plenty of grit. Park getting slightly better especially as the game went on did his job and didn't lose possession very often. Harry right not to change it better to take the point against a very good team who we stifled rather well.

Lost our shape a bit at the start of second half as they put us under intense pressure but rode out storm and got back on track.

Only problem is Mbia another yellow and strange antics from the crazy Cameroonian. Harry needs to have a word as he is getting a reputation with referees and we don't want any repeat of last season's post Christmas red cards fiasco {Cisse, Barton. Diakite etc)
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leedsalltheway added 17:39 - Jan 12

We are going nowhere. things need to change and fast.losing at barnsley says it all.team is not good enough.gfh need to do one
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themodfather added 17:45 - Jan 12

i left very disappointed...if this was under hughes, it would have been unsatisfactory. and the boss would've had stick, no subs!!!
no forward, we were slow, m'bia just falls over all the time, park was useless...cesar saved us and swp missed a sitter
nelsen and hill were good and onouha actually did excellent v bale, kept him under reasonable wraps but we were at home, needed a win.
some seemed happy leaving, now with results going against us, we're bottom ( as usual) i felt we could've nicked this with some passion and attacking options. park had to go off...and m'bia cannot stand up for mins in a row.
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LostBoys added 17:55 - Jan 12

A few heart attacks later but we got the three points we needed. Well done the fans who travelled - you sounded immense on the radio. SFC tweets and whispering Dave are not good for your physical and mental well being
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GK10 added 18:17 - Jan 12

A solid disciplined display, the right tactics considering the strength Spurs had on the pitch. A bit frustrating that we did not create too much, but two league games without conceding against Top 5 teams is good.

My only complaint with team was J S Park who did not seem to be able to control the ball or win a tackle (which invariouably he needed to do after his first touch). Why is'nt Faurlin playing? A far more effective player.
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ibnumber10 added 18:19 - Jan 12

This was a great performance against a very good Spurs team who have destroyed other sides this season. It also was the first time they have failed to score away from home since they played us here last season.
M'bia was immense (still a bit raw), Cesar's double save was world class. Fabio & Onuoha were very solid. Hill, Nelson, Mackie, Derry and SWP all put in a massive shift. Park was a bit off but still worked hard.
Adel was great worked hard and mixed his game up, if anything we missed Granero's class
Harry was happy with the point.
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quickpassrotter added 18:20 - Jan 12

If we had played with this organisation and commitment earlier in the season, when MH was still manager, we would not be down that end of the table. Tottenham are a seriously good side yet we prevented them from playing and if we had taken a chance or two we would have nicked it. Great to see the attitude and drive today - and I was pleased with the point. Clearly as the squad currently stands we are not an attacking force - and Harry has to get the best out of what he has been handed - which he is doing. Still think that we will not get out of it but at least we look a team now - and obviously a shame that Harry was not brought in about 6 weeks earlier than he was. Don't think that many if any will fancy coming to us though in the window. Still a way to go yet and others being sucked in and it will go to the wire like last season imo.
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N12Hoop added 21:17 - Jan 12

If we'd tried attacking we would have got torn apart. Harry called it right given the personnel we had available. It's a clean sheet and a point against one of the strongest squads in the country. I do worry though how we will set out against supposed lesser teams when we need goals since we have no creativity other then Adel.
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MelakaRanger added 22:50 - Jan 12

Mixed feelings. A point against Spurs, if we were not bottom, would be an OK result. But we need wins, not draws

As ever our attack was toothless and I cannot see more than one or two goals coming from this 'attack' over the next 10 games.

Its our lack of scoring goals that has cost us so dear this season and will cost us our Premiership status come May.

Cesar was supurb. I cant see Green getting back in on merit again. Park was poor and Derry made a number of poor passes. Adel far too selfish and blinkered today.

But a good 'team' performance. Something that was lacking under Hughes.



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Kaos_Agent added 06:56 - Jan 13

I thought everyone did pretty well today, and that under the circumstances a draw and a clean sheet against a very good offensive team are good results. Cesar MoTM for me. This is another layer of much-needed confidence for the lads. What a treat to watch the deft touches from Tarbs. His passing in attacking situations has improved but we're not taking advantage of it. Hopefully we will get Cisse on the receiving end - he's still the only convincing finisher we have, so we must find a way to get him involved.
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highlandbill added 09:36 - Jan 13

I might have my rose tinted specs on but I get a feeling that game by game Rednap is improving team performances. Spurs are packed full of talented players and 3rd in the table proves they are a very good team. On saturday they failed to break down what was one of the most error prone teams in the Prem.
OK there was a few goalmouth panic moments but we kept them out, quite an achievement. The other very noticeable change is that players are working harder,even Mackie is working more despite already being high octane.
I thought the whole taem did well with the exception of Park who ran around a lot like a dog in the park chasing a ball and never getting it.
Fabio was so good I thought maybe Man Unt had somebody at the game checking on how he was doing. The answer was he was doing very well. The usual suspects threw themselves into the mix, Hill ,Derry,Taraabt,Mbia,Cesar.
All in all a very encouraging ,if uninteresting match.The glaring weakness is up front where time and again we made nothing of opportunities because no-one was there to take advantage. I hope Harry gets 2 signings in the window, a Centre half and a tall front man.
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R_in_Sweden added 10:52 - Jan 13

As strong a performance as any this season. Agree with other posters - Harry's no mug and he played the right tactics, we were forced to adopt the position of a battling away team against a very good side.

I though we did excellently in nullifying there wide men, the attitude of the players was admirable compared with what it has been. Fabio was impressive, Onuoha stable, Cesar superb, some great passes and hold up from Adel (plus some bad free kicks). Park showed enthusiasm but not much else. Still waiting for the right man up front to be signed where I feel things need to click if we are going to dare attack more against the stronger sides.

Oh and Mbia is great at muscling people off the ball but is still a nutter, another bout of amateur dramatics in the second half had the Spurs keeper grinning knowingly as he's probably familiar with this kind of nonsense from when they played in the French league.
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HollowayRanger added 18:51 - Jan 13

GREAT EFFORT by the team

but final 10-15 minutes we should have had cisse on for park and taarabt drop in behind him,spurs were going for it and leaving holes at the back ,id rather we gone for it in those final 15mins and took the risk of losing a point in the hope of stealing all 3
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watford_dale added 14:06 - Jan 14

The defence was non existent, the team morale is constantly on a knife edge and as soon as the opposition bang one in we proceed to lose any shred of confidence we had in the first place. On Coleman's xmas list should have been defenders, defenders and defenders.

Good to see BBM back in the fray, Grant did well to set up the goal and where was Adebola for the last 10 minutes? Apart from that wasn't too bad.
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bloberts added 16:05 - Jan 16

Wow what a turnaround there has been this year!
Another excellent gutsy performance from us and fair play to Jay Bothroyd, he's been written off by I think probably everyone, but was excellent last night. However I do not think he could play in the premier league, particularly now we have the god that is Remy <3
Can't see Cisse playing for us again which is a shame because he is a class finisher, but hopefully Remy will be able to work harder for the team.
Rob Green made some astonishing saves as well which reminds us that we have got two world class keepers.

Roll on the off-form hammers!!
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BushRangerW12 added 17:38 - Jan 16

Fantastic result and superb support. Kept the momentum going, great start to the year -Read about our good start to the year on my latest blog Beat about the Bush Ranger: #19 A Glimmer of Hope http://beataboutthebushranger.blogspot.com/2013/01/19-glimmer-of-hope.html?spref …
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LostBoys added 00:36 - Jan 17

Great result - sloppy goals given away but a great comeback for a valuable point
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Bulgarian added 09:07 - Jan 17

Great display - an incredible boost to our self esteem.
However the pattern is there: we shouldn't look surprised and scared when gifted the ball in attacking positions. From JRod's inaccurate shot in the 2nd minute to the end of the 1st half we had some 4-5 attacks that could have been better developed. We should kick with more beleif and this is one of the things NA should emphasize in preparing the team mentally for the rest of the games, especially with the big guns. Here we come!
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dune added 09:08 - Jan 17

If Adkins had picked the right team at the start we could have won.
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themodfather added 17:47 - Jan 19

cesar was brilliant and nelsen and hill too. you just can't sit back and let wave after wave come at you.
draws are not enough but improvement? yes.
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Nov77 added 17:50 - Jan 19

The back five were heroic against the evil Sam's Luftwaffe, the midfield didnt protect the defence or link with the attack.
Adel was superb first half, and remy started brightly but faded badly.
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quickpassrotter added 18:56 - Jan 19

Started brightly but we were absolutely battered in the second half - so will take the point. Normally would have been pleased but games are slipping away now I'm afraid to say.
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e1337prodigy added 19:20 - Jan 19

Before the results today, we were 6points off safety. Now with the draw today and Reading winning (again, 2 in a row for them now). And Aston Villa (winning at the time of typing this) we are 7points off safety. We NEED to win these games.
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MelakaRanger added 20:08 - Jan 19

We remain unbeaten this year but draws are no good. I would rather win 1 then loose one. Remy brilliant first half then very quiet

Cesar by far MOM

Still think we have left it too late to survive
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Doughnut added 20:26 - Jan 19

We are still holding on to salvage a point. Wouldn't it be marvelous to watch a match that we dominated and put 2 clear goals between us and them,(Fulham game excepted...as it was still a nail biter for the last 5 mins.) a game where Cesar wasn't always our man of the match!
Defence seems to be sorted, attack is in the process of being sorted....but what about the bit in between. Would love to have a midfield that bosses the opposition and relieves the pressure on our defence.
There is no doubt about the massive improvement under Arry, but the fact he is having to re-construct the 3 elements of the team, shows just what an incompetant farce we had before, under Hughes. Hope there's still enough time?? Still, 5 points is very do-able.
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francisbowles added 02:10 - Jan 20

Really difficult to get a true perspective on the closeness of the players to the ball down the far end as to quote a recent linesman 'it was a bit murky'.

However, having now watched the highlights we gave Jarvis too much space which allowed far too many crosses. Apart from that the defence as well as Cesar and Mbia were heroic!

Remy started well, and a very cool finish, but faded which was to be expected as he hasn't played much recently.

Thought Harry got the subs wrong, especially taking off Mackie and putting Remy in the wide right position. Almost immediately we conceded from that side which we may have prevented had JM still been on. If he felt it necessary to bring on Bothroyd, he should have taken off Remy or Adel.

Some promising link up play between Tarabt, Remy and Mbia in the first half. We could do with Granero being available soon as he would add quality to the team or bench.

Remy needs minutes so I think he should get an hour against MK Dons and see if he can get some goals and improved confidence.

All things considered, we should be pleased with the point as we survived intense pressure and the good run goes on BUT why didn't Mbia go for goal at the end?
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malcolmd added 12:00 - Jan 20

A good point well deserved on the second half showing. Two ***** goals. Well done Ricky and Jason. Still no real commanding figure at the centre of the defence.
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malcolmd added 12:00 - Jan 20

A good point well deserved on the second half showing. Two ***** goals. Well done Ricky and Jason. Still no real commanding figure at the centre of the defence.
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Hoopsa_Carts added 15:30 - Jan 20

Certainly a game of two halves. I thought we looked pretty comfortable in the first half with the defence looking reasonably solid and Taarabt & Remy presenting a constant threat to the Hammers high defensive line.

An absolute contrast to the second half where it became a complete seige on our goal. Difficult to watch at times (literally as well as metaphorically given that most of the view came from a 100 yards away through a snowy haze) but credit to Rangers who really gave a resolute performance in defence.

Cesar undoubtedly my man of the match but I thought Fabio and Mbia put in good performances during that second half blitzkrieg.
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sidsaint added 22:51 - Jan 21

A good point but it could have been 3 if we had taken our chances in the first half.Nice to see another clean sheet and Boruc was excellent. Mid field worked socks off yet again.

Thought team selection and substitutions were as NA would have made. Off to Barcelona to get to know the manager better and possibly a couple of new signings to strengthen the squad. Looks good but again NA would probably have done the same except going to Barcelona.

Dignified response from supporters,
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Bulgarian added 22:53 - Jan 21

Two things can be said about this tricky game:
1) The players showed real determination under complicated circumstances, so it was very pleasing to see their response on the pitch;
2) It was nice to see the will to shoot and try half-chances. Even though we didn't score, the fact is that more players tried Howard. Let's hope this will become a tendency.

A very mature reaction from the fans, it seems the most difficult part in the situation is behind us. We simply must continue to back the team, especially with ManU's game next. However it was just strange to experience several moments of complete silence during the game - I can't remember such quiet moments at SMS in the last years.
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DelBollo added 23:06 - Jan 21

Good effort in the fist half, not so good in the second. Yoshida, man of the match in my view, another solid performance from the two young fb's and Hooiveld by far the weakest link in the chain.
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LostBoys added 13:41 - Jan 22

A good performance and outplayed Everton for long periods. Some of the chances missed were poor and we could have done with the extra two points.
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darthvader added 10:01 - Jan 23

hi new to this 1st post, in my view , a point at stoke is a point gained considering their home form, we did have a bit off luck yes ,however people talk of the wonder goal, which indeed it was , but a second or two before he struck it ,our old mate crouchy brought down the ball with his "chest" to lay it off to the scorer , but in doing so used both his arms to do it . my first though was handball ,and the goal should have been disallowed ... watch the replay and see what you think ? .. nit picking i know but if they should of had a pen ,then this goal should not have stood .
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darthvader added 10:27 - Jan 23

i cant get to every game but when i do im normally a northam enderer , i had an unexpected free seat in the itchen, close to the home dug out ,a friend couldnt make it so gave me there seat .
Anyway i was very happy with our performance not so happy with the refs seemed to be looking after everton players . When a couple of time Curlylocks didn't get his own way he looked at the ref as if asking him to blow for a foul , and he got it.
shame about the chances we missed but at least we were in the right place for the chances if you know what i mean .
3 or 4 up by half time if we took them ? the whole team were excellent the new manager and his team of interpreters look like they know what they are doing , and we seemed to play more prem like . the crowd were great , showed respect to our nige and also to the new guy .i forsee that gaston and guly will thrive with him in charge , maya is quality now and doesnt take any shite from anyone, love puchs "shitbreak" moment .
After friday i was in complete disgust at what had happened to Nigel i almost hated sfc for about 48hours and pretty sickoned that he didnt even get a mention in the programme ?! , it took monday nights performance to make me love and adore my club again . not that i will ever forget .
In summary a very enjoyable (but bloody cold)point gained against a quality team in 5th pos.
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ShotKneesHoop added 21:35 - Jan 26

No one deserves to be man of the mach for this.

Good to see Jude the Stadium Cat prowling around, and that sums the game up. I nominate him.
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ShotKneesHoop added 21:35 - Jan 26

No one deserves to be man of the mach for this.

Good to see Jude the Stadium Cat prowling around, and that sums the game up. I nominate him.
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Dennick added 04:04 - Jan 27

The last thing we need is a cup run,I'm glad its over ,also gave Harry the chance to asses some of our lesser lights ready for the clear out during summer.
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e1337prodigy added 09:59 - Jan 27

I wish I put more money on them to lose, still I won about £18.

@Dennick - that's if we stay up. We might have to stick with some of them because if we don't stay up we will definitely lose some of out better players.
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probbo added 10:11 - Jan 27

I appreciate that a run in the cup was clearly not a priority this season but even so, a second choice team should have given the MK Dons a better game than that. Tony Fernandes must have been sitting in the stand thinking 'what is this monster I have created'?!.

Anton's Ferdinand's defending for the second goal was the type of amateurish misjudgement you seen out in the parks every Sunday morning. Surely our worst centre back since Ernie Howe??
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tsbains64 added 11:12 - Jan 27

Fantastic support from the visitors and the Dons derserved to win. Felt Rangers were disjointed and lacked leadership-Granero has the skill but just doesnot step up to the mark. Liked his effort but did not get much help. Traroe accellerated like a Ferrari -highlight of the game for me. Really looked forward to this game as wanted to see some goals -shame they were in te wrong end!
Well Done Rnagers for pricing this correctly-great to see so many kids
Fantastic support from MK-I for one think that the demise of Wimbledon was the best thing that could have happend
Good luck in the next round
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JACKCY added 16:51 - Jan 27

Congrats to Leeds on a well deserved victory, outplayed outclassed Spurs.
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jokerthief added 18:04 - Jan 29

1 vote absolutely scandalous, for a guy living 6,000 miles away..Like to be informed..I remember when Cal used to post the highlights on F.B. ....maybe its not important anymore..
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MelakaRanger added 22:39 - Jan 29

A creditable performance and a good result.

The only weak link being Granero whose passing was poor, free kick and corners pathetic! He is there in body but not in mind.

Otherwise a very good 'team' performance against an obviously 'superior' team.

This '11' is entirely capable of beating Norwich on Saturday and win they must
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Nov77 added 23:03 - Jan 29

Granero was poor first half but thought he improved second.
Cesar and Adel streets ahead of anyone else.
Back four were all solid.
Will need a different game plan Saturday, draws against the likes of Norwich no use to us now.
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quickpassrotter added 23:38 - Jan 29

Brilliant game tonight. Very tight at the back. Cesar was outstanding - also Adel again. Liked the guard of honour at the end for Nelson. ManCity will not drop many points against teams outside top four for rest of season, so a well earned point for the R's.
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Kaos_Agent added 06:36 - Jan 30

All Hail Cesar again. He sealed the draw. Nelsen did his duty, as did the rest of the back line. Tarbs brilliant as usual and worth the price of admission. Derry and Mbia solid again. Granero at least made amends later on. Good all round performance in difficult conditions, and a great result, but still no sign of capitalizing on promising offensive situations.
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R_in_Sweden added 07:08 - Jan 30

Good backs to the wall performance. Agree with fellow posters Cesar and Taarabt had excellent games, in fact everybody put in a good shift. Granero was poor in the first half but picked up in the second.

Apart from getting the two penalty shouts right I thought that the referee had a bad game.

Three clean sheets against three of the top sides, time to start hitting the net on Saturday!
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francisbowles added 08:59 - Jan 30

Cesar brilliant again and everyone put a shift in. Mbia worked extremely hard. We will be grateful for the extra day's rest.

I thought that Granero had a good game although I was worried for around 20 mins as he seemed to be lacking concentration and constantly complaining about decisions. He did improve his passing and made some good tackles. Hopefully, this will be a turning point for him as he seems to be here for the duration. Harry needs to try and reduce the negative aspects and bring out his obvious class.

A slightly different approach needed for Norwich. Much depends on the next 48 hours and who we have to select from. Can we play a higher line without being exposed as we were unable to do so with both Nelson and Hill?
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highlandbill added 09:16 - Jan 30

Phew! I wanst looking forward to this game as I feared a massacre.Instead we saw a rednapp masterclass in dealing with a far superior army.
A few things taken from the game.
1 Cesar is still world class & won the point for us last night.
2 Tarbs gets better with each game,in a different team he too has the potential to be world class.Why did he fade in the 2nd half?
3 Grenaro was shit in the first half & terrific in the 2nd. What did Harry say?
4 Sad to see Nelsen play for the last time. Only part of a season with QPR but he will now enter the hall of Hoops legends.
5.We can beat Norwich and if the spirit shown last night can be maintained the fat lady will remain mute.
It wasnt pretty or exciting but a very satisfactory performance and result. The crowd were terrific & did their bit.
Onwards & Upwards. Come on you R,S!
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Doughnut added 11:31 - Jan 30

Agree with Bill...Nelsen now a legend. Hail Cesar too....best goalie in Britain! 4 points from this and the weekend and we're BACK!! Hope the Twitterati leave off TF too...he's done everything he can and deserves praise not slagging.
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themodfather added 13:36 - Jan 30

the qpr fans played a big part, a much better atmosphere and the team are lifted by it.
a dire ref, couldn't count 10 paces??
cesar's saves were vital, adel was amazing at times...m'bia still falls over too often and granero was a liability in the 1st held yet somehow we held on, nearly had a penalty.
4pts from the English and euro champs, that's improvement.
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smegma added 20:47 - Jan 30

Just played 3 of the top 4 and didn't concede a goal. Onwards and upwards.
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BushRangerW12 added 21:14 - Jan 30

Fantastic performance from the R's, worked so hard. Harry starting to turn around.
Reas more on the last 2 weeks of QPR on my latest QPR blog Beat about the Bush Ranger: #20 A Tale of 2 QPR Teams http://beataboutthebushranger.blogspot.com/2013/01/20-tale-of-2-qpr-teams.html?s …
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Clawsfour added 23:21 - Jan 30

I appear to be too early to give player ratings so I'll put mine here. And since it's a game of two halves 1st/2nd
Boruc 7/8
Clyne 5/7
Maya 6/8
Jos 7/8
Foxy 6/7
Punch 4/-
Cork 5/8
Morgan 7/9
Gaston 5/-
Jay 5/8
SRL 6/8
Davis -/7
Adam -/8
Luke -/8
Manager 9/9
Fans 8/10
Best of all was watching Fergie looking at his watch urging the ref to blow for full time.
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LostBoys added 02:46 - Jan 31

Game of two halves - not so good in first half and the defence away at the races for their goals. Second half played them off the park most of the time but finishing was not good. Lallana impressed on his return but still will not put his foot through the ball. Gloss on second half display taken by Reading's late equaliser.
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davepid added 21:54 - Jan 31

Ok .Great second half performance . But if thats our best ,the most we can ever hope for is a nil nil draw, 1 point a game probaly not enough to keep us up. No point being pleasing on the eye if we cant score or barely score .
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HollowayRanger added 15:58 - Feb 2

NO REMY no goal threat

we were toothless apart from mackie winning a pen though hard graft great save by keeper will post it in a mo but pens shouldnt be saved

never wanted remy and stand by that ,class player but made of glass
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e1337prodigy added 17:11 - Feb 2

Townsend impressed me, I don't know much about him but he played well. But here we go again, draw and yet all the teams around are us equaling or getting better results; either we are unlucky that they are beating teams that they shouldn't be (ie Reading beating Sunderland, Newcastle beating Chelsea, Aston Villa almost beating Everton) or they just want it more than our players. So here we are again 7 points from safety (as Reading have better goal difference) exactly what we were about 2 months ago if I remember correctly.
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e1337prodigy added 17:13 - Feb 2

I keep hearing (or reading) once we get a win we will put pressure on the teams around us, but at the moment they are all winning and putting massive pressure on us.
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BeauRanger added 19:04 - Feb 2

Certainly a better 2nd half performance than 1st & Zamora provided more presence up front & won plenty of headers. So frustrating to miss a pen' & Cesar had a few important saves to makes as well. Latest in a series of "must win" games that haven't been won.
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Doughnut added 21:32 - Feb 2

No goal threat and Cesar saving the day, yet again. The rest of the teams around us obviously 'want it more', ours haven't got any 'umph' which is why we're going backwards again.
Norwich, at home, all the money spent mid week, bottom of the table by 4 points and only 13 matches remaining. What more motivation does this team need???
Obviously most are in it for the dosh and couldn't give a shit about QPR. We've got players from far and wide banging on the doors (almost literally P.O.) begging to be signed up, to a club that's bottom of the league. Strange ???
I feel as deflated as I did at the start of the season; all the summer signings, expectations high....and then the anticlimax of some of the worst performances I can remeber. Wigan, Reading, Villa, Sunderland...etc all play like their premiership survival depends on it, we don't......and it shows!!!
Hanging on against Tottenham, Man City etc won't be any use if we can't put the likes of Norwich to the sword!
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Lazarus added 21:58 - Feb 2

Am I right in saying that every single Norwich booking was for a foul on Mackie? I was at the match, but can't remember of one of them was for a foul on someone else.

We let them dominate the midfield in the first half. SWP was ineffectual, and gave the ball away in daft positions a couple of times. Townsend looked great, and Jenus oozed class. Taarabt should have wellied that penalty instead of placing it. Both goalies played blinders.
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MelakaRanger added 22:21 - Feb 2

Utterly toothless attack. I couldn't see how we were going to score

Adels free kicks, corner kicks generally pathetic as they have been all season.

Ceasar stopped at least 2 certain goals.

New boys did very well but where are our goals comings from?


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MelakaRanger added 22:26 - Feb 2

And I think this tells it all..

In 5 of the last 7 matches, the Loft for Words MOM has been Cesar! ( and he did not play in the other 2 matches)
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snanker added 23:29 - Feb 2

Cesar saved our bacon again with the best open play save of the game while we got a fortunate penalty I thought The ref missed blatant holding on Samba in the area in the 2nd half that should have earned a spot kick.

Our Israeli was lucky with his push on Becchio at the death and while all the huff and puff & defensive effort was commendable / solid we looked average again in the final third. Zamora made a difference in the second half but he looks like he could break down again at any moment. Scoring is the name of the game and to be honest we still don't look likely ! Tic,tic,tic.........
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LostBoys added 02:04 - Feb 3

Overall a good performance let down by poor finishing and defending. The two centre halves look well out of their depth
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Dennick added 02:32 - Feb 3

I have to agree with Melaka, Adel wastes more opportunities than he creates too often, someone else must take over the set pieces and corners.
Good to see Traore continuing to improve, Cesar was brilliant and the new boys contibuted well.
All is not lost but we must keep our stikers fit.
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tsbains64 added 07:15 - Feb 3

Cesar MOTM and that sums up the performance
New players contributed well but need to win especially as others around us a picking up points
We were toothless upfront and dont know where the goals are going to come from
Mackie will run into the wall for you-but thats about it!!
Impressed with Townsend-great attaching and tracking back
Just need a couple of 1-nilers!!
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Hoopsa_Carts added 09:49 - Feb 3

Mixed feelings on this one. Credit to HR for the huge improvement in team performances since the lamentable Hughes was given the bullet, but I thought we were far too negative with the formation in the first half and were slow in implementing the changes which made us more of a goal threat. Much better second half when we played with the two up front but I can't help but feel that we only gave ourselves half a game to get a (much needed) win.
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ozranger added 10:53 - Feb 3

Agree fully with most of what has been said above. My two pence worth is the change after Zamora came on was because of his ability to get his head, or body, to ball sent downfield. I am sure that Clive will explain this better, but in the first half every goalkick or boot up forward was met by a Norwich head and whats more was that they got second ball as well and thus one of the reasons they began to pressure us after 15 minutes. Thus, with Zamora up there to put his head, and body, about, we were now participating in the play. Hence, the need for him to heal quickly from his hip surgery. I am not all that convinced about Fabio not playing LB, which is where he did so well before. Fabio is being used as a general fill-in person, but I am concerned it may affect him. I hope Onouha is back quickly. To MoM, I would actually want to give it to Townsend. In his first game, with only one practice under his belt and without playing with his new team-mates he seemed to play as if he had been here for quite some time. He will not be a saviour, but I think he will fit in well.. oh and he has some silky skills which were on show, and a powerful shot.
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derbyhoop added 16:02 - Feb 3

Lotd of average performances, not enough good ones. First half was a dreadful game of what passes for Premiership football. Second half we stepped up without ever threatening to score. I thought we were slightly the better side but they had the better chances. Their resilience made the game too stop start for us.
Pluses. Another good performance by Cesar. Fabio and a half fit Samba did well. Taarabt, like the curate's egg. Good in parts, but some poor errors of judgement. Jenas looked tidy. Zamora as well, although the other attackers were rarely on the same wavelength. Best player was Townsend.
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highlandbill added 18:17 - Feb 3

Came away disappointed (Again!),I had hoped that at last we would have a win by 2 or3 clear goals.Instead,it was as before. The spirit obvious on Tuesday was missing, perhaps the crowd lifted matters under the lights.
Much impressed by Townsend,he can the kind of debut you expect from a new keen young player.Jenas,s touch on the ball was very crisp and I am surprised to read comments about him on this site as he strikes me as classy.
Tarbs had an off game but despite the fact we had no slackers we were toothless, time and agin ther was no-one forward to pass the ball to.
We also had our usual bad luck, there was the penalty and then it seemed as if Norwich players had a ball magnet attached to them as scores of loose balss fell to their feet.
I AM UP and down like a yoyo,after Tuesday I thought we were on our way at last, after Saturday I feel as glum as I have all season. 13 games to go and quite a few winnable on paper, but that also applies to past games which wre not won.I am once again looking down at the Championship.
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themodfather added 06:24 - Feb 4

how did they end up with 10 on the pitch? every attack saw them foul qpr..endlessly breaking up play....and we won't mention the diving about either!!
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simmo400 added 06:44 - Feb 4

Luke Shaw.........told to stay on the post wht didnt you ?
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simmo400 added 06:44 - Feb 4

Luke Shaw.........told to stay on the post wht didnt you ?
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pedrodale added 17:32 - Feb 4

Have to establish the fear factor again as no one is afraid of us not even the match officials.
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QPRNZ added 03:05 - Feb 10

Far better performance 2nd half, seems like 1st time I have seen QPR playing some football for a long time. Created plenty of chances and unlucky to 'lose' 2nd half 2-1. Seems to me that we have to play 4-4-2. Got torn apart anyway playing defensive 4-5-1. Have to play either Remy/Taraabt or Zamora/Taraabt up front. Granero has to play. Our only chance is to somehow get our 'class' players performing. Having said that I am resigned to relegation.
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MelakaRanger added 03:55 - Feb 10

A bad day at the office.

And Harry now says he will give Boothroyd another go. Oh dear!

I too am now resigned to relegation. There is no way this team will be able to score more than the odd goal here or there. We just haven't had any form of attack for best part of 6 months now. Remy is 'crocked' and even of he comes back next game he is likely to miss as many as he plays. Hindsight is wonderful but we would have been better off paying 8 million for Crouch and Odemwinge.

Whatever we do in the summer we must buy some quality forwards or we will not be getting back up

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Kaos_Agent added 04:44 - Feb 10

Again not very good and not very lucky; not the ticket for an away game against a confident, structured, and well gelled Swansea. Cesar's reliance on the punch-away save cost us dearly on the first two goals. I don't overly blame him for the 3rd goal as he had to watch the near post and I reckon Hernandez could try that cross 100 times and not score on 99 of them. 4th goal Cesar had no chance. For us to have any hope he has to be brilliant every time out and that's unlikely. The loss to England won't have helped his confidence.

And yet despite everything, with a well deserved penalty and a little luck on M'Bia's and SWP's and Tarbs' shots, it could have been much closer. Still not convinced about our offense though.
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probbo added 10:16 - Feb 10

The Man U game aside, i'm looking at the upcoming matches and thinking they are 'winnable' but the fact is we've won just two games all season and (Villa aside) all these other teams seem to play better football, by which I mean passing, creating chances, being competitive and just playing as a team.

I saw the highlights on MOTD last night - a poor performance from the back four. In fact there were 7 R's shirts in the box for Swansea's third goal and they still managed to scope. Samba was made to look a bit of a mug for the fourth but in fairnesss he's probably still getting back to match fitness and Mitchu is razor sharp.

We have a losing culture which is feeding on itself and will only change with back to back wins but I just can't see where the goals will come from.
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HastingsRanger added 12:56 - Feb 10

It is a grim prospect. We can hold teams but if we fall behind or need to win, we're just don't have it. We just can't make up the gap now. Relegated in early February wasn't quite my expectation this year!
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LostBoys added 13:26 - Feb 10

Great performance all round - bit more clinical finishing and it could have been a rout - it took a few Stellas to get my voice back last night
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LostBoys added 13:27 - Feb 10

I nearly forgot wasn't the referee pants - slightly better in the second half but really bottled the cast iron peno
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sandy added 13:51 - Feb 10

Great result rewarding a fantastic performance. Interesting that Davis mentioned just how hard they have to work to play that type of pressing game successfully. We looked pretty leggy in the last 15 minutes, and couple of chances went untaken. Question is whether Saints can sustain that type of work rate till the end of the season.
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winchesterbob added 13:58 - Feb 10

manager got it spot on and city looked ordinary. The two centre backs who are "not up to the prem" were top class, Fox, deputising for the injured Shaw had a good game if we ignore the two errors leading up to a soft goal for City and the other couple of times he gave the ball away cheapley. Clyne was good on both sides of the park. Schneiderlin, Cork, and Punch were on fire as was the big number 7 and J Rod. Davis S would have got a 10 from me if not for the mis-placed corner that led to the score at the wrong end. Boruc made some top draw saves at crucial times. A good day to be a Saint, long may it continue. I for one like this approach to football.
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e1337prodigy added 14:16 - Feb 10

To be honest it was over last week, we had to win the Norwich game. It doesn't help that all the other teams are playing well; or it's just us playing s***. Southampton, Reading etc all getting surprise wins and draws; they seem to play their oppositions on an off day ie like Southampton yesterday, Man City were poor but then Southampton are playing well. When any of those teams play us they are on form (or we just make them look good). I just hope Wigan and Aston Villa get relegated too, mainly because the Wigan stadium is never 50% full when watching it on the telly, not exactly a great look for English football and Aston Villa because they are so dull.
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newgolddream added 15:34 - Feb 10

Dreadful result and ends our unbeaten start in 2013. Our five game run saw us drop eight points, score two goals and park the bus for long periods in all those matches. During that run we missed a golden chance to reach the last eight of the FA Cup, let DJ Campbell go to Blackburn and invested heavily in the transfer market yet again. We've also made Swansea look like Barcelona under two different managers this season with Wayne Routledge more than playing his part in both matches. Another player surplus to requirements at W12 was Jason Puncheon who is on fire this season. As it stands, we need at least twenty points to stay up which equates to top six form for the rest of the season. Thats as many as we have amassed in our last 28 games. Loaves and fishes, wine and water come to mind. We all live in hope.
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RonisRs added 16:43 - Feb 10

I must say the writing is on the wall. The only way we have a chance is to take chances and play the rest of the season offensively, regardless of the results. At the moment we are relegated, thanks to MH's great vision.
In a perverse way i am looking forward to us playing in the Championship, at least we should win a few more games, giving one the satisfactory feeling.
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Doughnut added 22:11 - Feb 10

I must say that I feel a tiny sense of relief, as this season and the last has taken its toll on me as a supporter. If this is us in the Premier league then bring on the Championship. Our premier league campaign has been an abortion from the off!!
Hope we can off-load the dead weight now, as the inevitable is upon us, after this latest joke of a performance. I think we just have to face up to the fact that we support a crap side. If, by some unheard of miracle we managed to survive this season, it really would be a travesty, as we are probably the worst team in the Premiership. Harsh words, but enough is enough! How much more are we supposed to take?? If Ihave to see Michu's gob once more FFS!! Odds on we'll be mathematically down by Easter, so at least we won't have to endure the last few nail biters as we did at the end of last season. Hope the finances dont kill us, that's the real worry!
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geraldo added 01:00 - Feb 11

Looks to me like no difference - I was against JC but I feel Hill is no better - 2 points from 3 games is relegation form. Are we seeing " Emporers new clothes" as Flitcroft seems to be doing really well without Hill ?
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schatfield added 01:36 - Feb 11

Saints fan here - sorry to chip in on your site, but had a couple of comments. I watched the whole match and its easy to see whats wrong with your team. Confidence is first, as soon as you let in a goal the whole teams heads drop. 2nd, has he been injured? Zamora still looks quality. If he could play every week, it would be superb. 3rdly, sorry but Harry aint all that. He took us down and has a severe lack of tactics when you have been found out. No plan B.
I dont mind QPR, but you guys must be worried at the amount of cash you have paid out on players if u go down...
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Dennick added 06:59 - Feb 11

League tables dont lie, we're a crap team and we showed how poor we really are at Swansea.
We have not done well in any "winnable" game this year and I cant see any hope of that changing, we'll be playing at Griffen park next year by the looks of things.
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daveB added 15:58 - Feb 11

We were far too easy to play against, Swansea did their homework, realised we had no strikers so played a high line with the ball and without it so when we did get the ball we couldn't get out of our own half and were always giving it away. Poor team selection from Redknapp for this one, once he brought a striker on it was a different game but one we still lost
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jezemondo added 20:58 - Feb 17

As with every game, we convince ourselves that today will be different. We might lose but City will know they have been in a game. Within about 4 minutes it was obvious that we would not be able to compete.
We needed to keep a clean sheet for at least the first 20 mins and work our way into the game, but it was men against boys. We didn't get close enough to them, gave the likes of Yaya Toure too much time to pick his passes coming forward, and we didn't make opportunities for ourself.
Leeds have let Ross Barkley go back to Everton, Becchio go to Norwich, signed no-one who is going to make a difference, and the manager is winning no friends in the crowd with his tactics.
We are a team who just try to stop the other teams playing, we are direct on the rare occasions we go forward, and have a very negative approach. If we come up against a team who pass the ball around with movement across the park, we have no answers.
In my opinion, even though i don't necessarily agree with the fans who think Warnock should go, I think this game sees the writing on the wall for him.
We were embarrasing today, much like at Barnsley a couple of weeks ago, and these performances hurt the fans who just will not accept them, and the clamour for change now rather than the end of the season is becoming deafening.
As a foot note, I thought both sets of fans were terrific today. We sang a lot more than the City fans but they were up for the craic, well, I suppose winning so easily helps.
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jezemondo added 19:54 - Feb 23

Just got back from the match, frustration on the terraces as we couldn't do much with the posession web had. For the laST 20 MINS fans were wanting a change to the team up front, but I couldn't see anyone from the bench improving things.
I thing Deouf has done well for us and holds the ball well, but today we had a bit more pace and attacked faster causing their defence problems, and bringing on Deouf would have slowed things down too much.
On the whole a good performance, lacking a cutting edge and not too many clear cut chances.
I think the players give their all but when it doesn't come off for them the last thing we need is criticism from the crowd. This affects the individual, the team and the whole club in such a negative way, and its getting worse. Web need to tart getting behind the team and management more.
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francisbowles added 20:00 - Feb 23

Pretty much as expected a professional approach from them, we were average and they were too strong for us. At least we avoided a heavy defeat. Run in starts next week! I'm not expecting but hoping that we can start to win.

It was the most inept piece of refereeing I have ever seen. Constantly in the way and even headed the ball at one point. Vidic fouls his opponent every time before the ball gets to him and never gets penalised.

Strange subs by Harry, firstly why did Zamora come out for 2nd half after the way he finished the first and all that has been said? Why swap Jenas for Granero who had been ok and looked the most likely to play a good ball in? Why take off Townsend when he had been the most successfull attacker?

Remy looks class but we couldn't get him in the game. If we are due any luck he will stay fit and not be a waste of money.
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tsbains64 added 20:40 - Feb 23

The team got hyponotised by the Utd fans-what ever they were singing -it could not get the ball back!!
We looked good in the second half but could not make many opportunities-we miss that cutting edge. Remy made a difference but the Utd defence nullified his play
Good performances from Townsend,Granero and Traore
Their first goal was a wonder goal but we could not capitilise when we were in the ascendancy
Its going to be tough but we need to win next week
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enfieldargh added 21:30 - Feb 23

tarbs gave the ball away leading to their first and Jenas was indecisive as to either kick the ball, pass the ball, ackowledge the ball was there which led to their beakaway 2nd goal.

Keep BZ and LR fit for the run in and you never know.

Granero took a knock early in the 1st half and tried to run it off.

BZ played well although resembled a one legged man.

Evra and Nani go down like sacks of sheet, Bobby Zamora he stays on his feet
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Kaos_Agent added 06:05 - Feb 24

Good work from many but the usual poor ball control and anemic offensive finishing. Glimpses of positivity but it looks nowhere near enough. BZ looks done. Remy simply must stay fit and Tarbs has to play a lot better than in this outing.
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highlandbill added 12:56 - Feb 24

Made the 60 mile journey home with a feeling of dispair. We had most of our new boys on the pitch but it just seemed like the same old team. Everyone turstatues as soon as they got 20 yards into the Man U half.
The first goal real knocked the stuffing out of the crowd and for long periods the ground was almost silent,as if we were at a funeral, & perhaps we were? Nobody was rubbish but then no-one was terrific. Credit once again to Mackie for his fighting spirit. Zamora gave us glimpses of the player he could be if his body was not letting him down. Cesar was helpless in both goal situations. jenas looked nothing special. Man U played the entire game in 2nd gear while we were almost in reverse. A sad ,sad day. Its not over yet but my heart is in my boots.
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Hoopsa_Carts added 15:58 - Feb 24

Plenty of effort from Rangers but United never really had to break sweat in order to see this game out. We still seem to be incapable of holding the ball long enough to allow any periods of sustained pressure to develop which is not only frustrating but is also becoming tortuous to watch. I'm still holding on to hope but having one or two meaningful shots per game alongside a few hopeful 30 yard lashes is not filling me with much confidence at present.
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izlingtonhoop added 16:03 - Feb 24

highlandbill

Hernandez was rubbish, despite his childish, and stupid genuflecting to his imaginary-friend-in-the-sky pre-ko.

Look Chikkicheeto, if there is a god she certainly didn't do you any favours. So ether there was no one there to hear you, or, it doesn't like you, either way your pleading didn't work.

Yes, he was rubbish, he didn't connect with a single cross, his mate fell down a hole, and he was rightly hauled off on 61, filling my atheist heart with joy!

Still, he's got a lot more money than I have.

Perhaps that's it, for 'it is easier for a camel to pass through the eye of a needle, than for a rich man to enter into the kingdom of heaven'. Matthew 19:24, read it and weep, Javier, young man...

As for Rangers, I can't wait for us to score again!
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LostBoys added 17:59 - Feb 24

I could only listen on a the radio but a game we could have won should have won and threw away with piss poor defending again.
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QPRNZ added 18:37 - Feb 24

Expected result but still disappointing. Townsend was my man of the match. Someone who will run at players and make them take a backward step. I know Zamora is injured and not fit and there is not really a replacement but I thought he was totally ineffective. Did he win a single ball in the air? I cannot remember one. Otherwise lots of players looking clumsy on the ball - Mbia, Samba, Mackie in particular. 5 premier league games at home in a row without a goal.
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Harbour added 19:58 - Feb 24

impressed with townsend some world class saves from cesar we created very little strange to see adel out on the wing. they could have scored 1 or 2 more we might have got one back. performance not bad considering the opposition. next few games will decide if we have any chance of survival which looks unlikely.
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winchesterbob added 20:21 - Feb 24

I'm considering changing a life long conviction....... and supporting fox hunting!!!
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themodfather added 21:23 - Feb 24

will cesar ever learn to hold the ball..great saves but too often they go straight to the oppo and in our net
ref did all he could to protect man utd players...
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rjh added 22:28 - Feb 24

Frustrating. Game was there for the taking. Poor defending cost us big time.
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javro added 19:42 - Feb 25

very good debut by Garmston
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Yorkshire_Dale added 00:45 - Feb 27

How embarrassing......they have n't won since New Year's Day and dick us at home with 3 goals!

Making us look proper c*nts again.
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Bulgarian added 17:25 - Mar 2

What a sad day. But one we should always keep in our minds - imo it was not about individual errors. It was about not being really prepared for the game. Call it complacency, lack of concentration, over-confidence - we never really clicked for the whole 90 minutes: a decent if not good side being blatantly disjointed. As if we were expecting QPR to beat themselves offering us easy opportunities to shine.
I'm really not keen to criticise the tactics and game plans. It's more the mental inconsistency we show towards the opposition that worries me. We had the momentum early 2nd half and we lost it. So a tough dogfight awaits. So be it.
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geraldo added 17:31 - Mar 2

Another shocker - wonder what Hill's excuse will be this time..?
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DaneloCruz added 17:33 - Mar 2

Vorm 7
Ashley 7
Leon 6
Michu 6
Pablo 8
Nathan 6
Wayne 8
Gary 6
Luke 8
Jonathan 7
Angel 7
Ki 7
Ben 7
Management 8
Fans 8
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patred added 17:55 - Mar 2

SOMEONE NIP DOWN TO NIGELS HOUSE AND GET HIM OUT OF THE GARDEN
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REEDYREEDOREEDZ added 17:56 - Mar 2

Oh dear! What an awful performance.
We had 60% possession but did nothing with it. We were so poor in the final third. Samba bossed Lambert, and that's the most ineffective I've ever seen Rickie. Just shows how much we rely on him.
Puncheon did nothing all game. We needed a creative spark but it rarely happened. Ramirez was subdued and apart from his goal he didn't do enough. His delivery from deadball was awful too.
Lallana looked lively before he unfortunately had to go off and Rodriguez was our best attacking player when he came on.
Our defence was pathetic once again. Fox got caught out by a simple ball for the first, and then instead of closing the shot down he went to the goalline giving Remy the chance to steady himself and pick his spot.
Yoshida was at fault for the 2nd goal, he slid in on Park and didn't win it. If you commit yourself in that position then you have to win it. He didn't and Park had loads of time to pick out Boothroyd for a tap in. If we don't see Forren come in for Yoshida now then something is wrong. Does Poche not rate Forren? He wasn't even on the bench today!
Pochettino has his work cut out now. We need a plan B if Lambert is taken out of the game. We need our creative players to create something! Saints were too slow in possession today. If you want to play your way through teams then you need to do it quickly. Much improvement needed to stay up.
A hugely dissapointing display.
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Doughnut added 18:12 - Mar 2

We can see what it feels like for the other side now...see above!!! Expecting us to beat ourselves and look good in comparison. 3 Points...Onwards and Upwards!!! URss
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RonisRs added 19:04 - Mar 2

Happy Birthday Harry
come on u R's we can do it........
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R_in_Sweden added 19:20 - Mar 2

The players need to get away and go out on the piss more often. Still a very tough call, but we were fairly resilient today.
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francisbowles added 19:39 - Mar 2

A better performance, no one outstanding and no one really poor. Still lots of individual errors but lots of good things too. Well done Park, I thought that ball was lost and then a good ball in for Bothroyd to tap in. Well done Green too a top save near the end.

My first visit to St Mary's good atmosphere in our end, good banter and the best set of stewards that I have come across. They were very friendly, helpful and no over the top security searches.

Come on City on Monday and it could be down to a 4 point gap!
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e1337prodigy added 20:02 - Mar 2

Well that was lucky. Honestly, we didn't deserve to win that but then there are games we have deserved to win and came away with nothing. That's football I guess. Maybe our luck is changing. The QPR players are getting my underwear bill, those last 10mins (actually 16mins!! because of the ridiculous amount of injury time) were torture. Still a few moments of complete disbelief; I think Clive has mentioned this before in one of his analysis's (SP); we can't keep the ball for more than 2 touch's when we win a throw in. In fact we couldn't keep the ball at all, terrible passing by some, but then great passing by others particularly the assist from Hoilett.

Anyway, I can finally go into work Monday with a smile on my face. Come on you R's!!
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LostBoys added 20:04 - Mar 2

dreadful performance and amateurish defending
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newgolddream added 20:52 - Mar 2

All these Saints fans on our site. Its a bit like the Rivals one now.
Well done QPR and three life saving points. Looking forward to MOTD. Did i really say that?????
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Patrick added 21:08 - Mar 2

When I saw those QPR on the p**s reports I remembered the way the genius duo of Clough+Taylor won their first trophy. For those too young to remember, they opened the bottles the night before. If the Rs follow this up with a win on Saturday, I'll book return tickets for the team to Dubai myself. Keep the faith. It's game on.
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saintandy11 added 21:17 - Mar 2

Pochettino got his tactics totally wrong today. It was so obvious before the game that QPR where going to play a physical game. So putting our over priced lightweight (Ramirez) in the middle was asking for trouble. Davis would have been a much better choice for today's game as he would have help Cork and Schneiderlin in the midfield battle instead of hitting the deck at every opportunity. And as for Fox, well I would never boo any player who is wearing Red & White but now the game is over BOOOOOOOOO.
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Kaos_Agent added 08:11 - Mar 3

Best game from Park so far. Nice to see Hoilett click with Remy. And what a pleasant surprise Green was. However it's lunacy to think we can rely on him and Cesar for acrobatics every game. Anyway well done lads - keep the confidence growing.
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quickpassrotter added 13:01 - Mar 3

Pleased with the performance. We kept our shape all game. Bothroyd put in a good shift and JSP did too. Though that Mbia would eventually pick up two Yellows but calmed down just enough.
Surprisingly poor performance from Webb - thought that some of his decision making was below his normal high standard.
I like St Marys. Nice wrap around stadium - a good model for our new eventual home.
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scummerlou added 14:22 - Mar 3

Im only a lowly UEFA B badged coach, but trying to work out from what coaching manual it was to set the team out to deliver a high ball every attack to a 6ft 6" centre back....??? SRL didnt have a chance vs Samba.....and yesterday was also the day when virtually the whole team had an off day....
Did expect to see Steven Davis in the midfield as this was always going to be a bruising match, and we were, quite literally, kicked out the game....
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aceofthebase added 19:04 - Mar 3

Just can't see what the POX has done to improve the Saints. Defense is still dodgy and even with plenty of possession we are not creating penalty box chances.

Just hope the Pox doesn't do for the saints what Harry did
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RonisRs added 17:42 - Mar 9

at this stage, all i can say is awesome stuff. pity Villa won.
6 points in 2 ganes from the 20 so far.........
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CheshireJack added 19:29 - Mar 9

Great game, poor ref though, gave them a dubious penalty, which was well saved, denied us a perfectly good goal - radio commentators and both managers said it was a good goal - and denied us a penalty right at the end. Poor substitutions from Laudrup though, I wish he would drop Hernandez, Dyer is ten times better than him. Ki played well, but needs to keep building his confidence. Moore had a cracker.
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Bulgarian added 19:32 - Mar 9

As I told last week: we're not a crappy side, it's the mental approach and concentration that was lacking in the QPR game.

Unfortunately, the lack of striking prowess made a hard-fought battle look like a dull one. So we must be thankful to Artur for saving the day.

Next 2 games are not to be written off moaning wise: we must keep the focus, players and supporters. Here comes the real crossroad: we will either materialise the fighting spirit or be sinking. Hope MoPo shows his real character by then.
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francisbowles added 20:07 - Mar 9

Before last week, I didn't think it was worth going to Villa but went straight to box office after the match and got the tickets.

A really good performance, just a bit slow for the start of 2nd half but rode it out and got back on top. Full credit to Harry and his staff for selection and subs even though it wouldn't have been the popular pick, it worked.! Shame about Tarabt not even on the bench, anybody know why? When you analyse the subs they made sense. Harry put on Mackie and SWP because we were winning and he knew they would work hard and close people down.

We need another good result next week, both teams will be feeling confident after today. Probably important that we don't go behind.
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smegma added 20:15 - Mar 9

Apart from the first 15 minutes of the 2nd half, I thought we were in control. And after going behind against the run of play, we kept our shape/formation and belief. What Colback or Larsson had to do to get a yellow card is anyones guess considering Sunderland committed 19 fouls to our 4. Actually thought the score flattered them , not that two of my mates were worried as one put £20 on 3-1, the other put £10 on 3-1 at 18/1.Villa is now absolutely massive next Saturday.
C'mon You R's !!!!
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francisbowles added 20:37 - Mar 9

I forgot to say Bosingwa was amazing!
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Yorkshire_Dale added 21:18 - Mar 9

A great day for Dale....well on the way to secure League status with that performance. Fine TEAM show well done.

Good to see Soft Lad's influence on Accy is developing!

Come and watch Dale now,see how footie should be played.
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MelakaRanger added 22:20 - Mar 9

Best 'team' performance of the season.

At 0-1 down the heads did not drop!!!

No real weak links. Bosingwas spot kicks seemed to be better than Taarabts or Graneros have been (crazy eh)

In fact I think we are a much better team without Taarabt.

Three great goals - THREE GOALS, who would have thought?

Hope the same team starts at Villa. This 11 is capable of beating the drop


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LostBoys added 22:45 - Mar 9

Very disappointing with a couple of wreched performances frankly Lallana was a waste of space. Very disappointed after dominating the game. The referre and the lino in front of us were very poor.
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ozranger added 23:41 - Mar 9

I find it fascinating that our feelings against Bosingwa are stopping him from being MoM in this match. Yes, Townsend played quite well, but our RB did a lot more, in attack, set plays and defence. Also don't forget he played a major part in Remy's goal. Are we going to see Taarabt again?
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qprmick added 00:24 - Mar 10

Solid defence from Samba and Hill. We started to have some effort from midfield in regard to scoring, that is where the goals should be coming from with the odd one from Samba from set pieces. Things are certainly looking up.
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Kaos_Agent added 00:26 - Mar 10

Agree, another good game from Bosingwa, good on him for turning his play around. Park and M'Bia solid up the middle (well done Stephane, no yellow card this game). Two goals from the wingers, and Hoilett almost made it three. Very positive. It's ideal timing for Townsend and Jenas to get a confidence boost as the dogfight heats up. Remy clinical again; the man can strike.

Well done lads, "the gel" seems to have set at last, and the dressing room should be buzzing with two wins on the trot. Now go after Villa!
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qprmick added 00:29 - Mar 10

If we are looking a better team without Taarabt, it is because Hoilett and others are now contributing. With Adel the others seem to just sit back and let him do all the work. Park looks like a lightweight 12 year old, there must be a better solution.
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QPRNZ added 00:58 - Mar 10

What joy after all the crap that we have had to endure this season. It was like watching a different team at times. Hoilett and Townsend were both excellent. We seemed to give the ball away less often when playing out of defence. Still not entirely convinced with Zamora - he does not seem to win many of those high balls pumped forward that he is supposedly there for. For me, man of the match has to go to Jose Bosingwa- I think that it takes some balls to come back and play well after his previous misdemeanours.I though he was often responsible for the good play the ball out of defence. (For me this is the key difference in the premier league, a defender cannot just boot that ball out of defence - he has to find one of his team mates). Also one fabulous piece of defending in the 2nd half when he shepherded a Sunderland player out over the touchline when he could have dived in.
Now there is hope where there was none!
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Kaos_Agent added 01:02 - Mar 10

Miss seeing Adel out there but have to agree with Melaka. Communications and possession have arguably been better without him. He's this tornado whirling through the pitch and nobody seems to know where it's going to veer and deposit the ball. Great things may happen and giveaways too. Surely there must be a role for him, but how is he going to break into this midfield that's been doing so well lately?
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TreeHugger added 05:11 - Mar 10

Good performance, just lacked the goals today. midfield completely dominated again. Lambert seems to be a bit tired at the moment, his body language looks different to me.
Boruc had a very solid game and it does help having a keeper who can catch crosses. No disrespect to Davis but Boruc seems to have a bigger presence in the box which I think takes some pressure off the back four. Never a penalty, not much more you can say about that. Gaston needs to improve. He is so controlled on the ball but i feel he could be doing so much more. Jay Rod is getting better every game and I think his pace is needed at the moment. Lets not forget how young some of these players are still. Shaw, Clyne, Gaston, JRod, etc…..even cork, Morgan and Lallana are still developing.
Great support again from the away fans. I think the support is what will carry us over the finishing line. Keep getting behind them, 6 points from Liverpool and Chelsea!
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sl500x added 05:28 - Mar 10

Rodriguez is improving and played well today tried hard made good runs down the channels but should work now on his finishing all next week he could have won it for us ..We have to get points this month in March or we could be back in the bottom 3 come April.

Gaston needs to pick it up and start repaying the fee we paid hes not delivered only in glimpses all season and been off the pace for most games .

Cork and Schneiderlin again were excellent . Kept us with a good shape protected the back four as always and link up and get up to support the attackers always and reduced Norwich to very little and kept Snodgrass and Johnson very quiet .
They get through so much work .Break up so much play and cover every one else on the pitch .We really are lucky to have them in there every game .If they dont play you see the difference immediately .

Ricky did ok but as someone said was marked out of it by the excellent Turner.
Hes still a class act gets through a mountain of work each game is so intelligent in all he does and has to be close to an England call up ..Great vision and has that Sheringham brain sometimes too quick for those around him .

Adam is trying to hard i think, maybe to impress Ponch who maybe doesnt see what weve seen the last 3 - 4 years from lala and maybe thinks Ponch doenst seem convinced he has what Ponch wants . .

Center halves did ok .

Luuuuuuuuuke is immense going forward ...a 10 million price tag already(Arsenal ) at 17 but still can learn on his positional play when defending .But he is 17 ,ok !
Was it a Pen ?
yes!

Yoshida good couple of saving tackles .Going forward my Nan (93) could have crossed better than he did trying to pick out any of our forwards .

Ging Gang ..never been a fan ,hes not Prem quality.He was poor when he came on and dint give us anything different in his play .

Goalie . Great job Great save great point at least in the 92 nd minute to stop a Pen Woohoo.... You got and earned us a point anything less would have been a robbery the way we played and took the game to Norwich .

Overall we played really well as we have every game since Ponch came in .

I didnt think we pressed as much today and saved energy and didnt look as vulnerable or tired in the last 10 minutes as we have the last few months .We seemed to pick and choose when we pressed high or middle of the park and we benefited from that today .

But we have 6 points from 21 since ponch came in ..Its not enough .We need a decent March haul of points or we could go into April in the bottom 3 which will be hard to get out of when we play some tough games from then til mid may .
we need 10 points from somewhere from our last 9 at the rate we are scoring we wont get there..
We have to win at Reading beat West Ham @home and win one more and one draw somewhere .

QPR are going to have bumper month and claw back the gap to be within a point at least if not off the bottom by end of March .

Wigan are like us play good football and can beat top teams on their day .But they know how to stay up they have done it before .

Villa are good going forward but cant stop conceding and Reading are down out and own unless they can get a win or 2 quick have lost all momentum..

We have to win that one at Reading its now A MUST WIN AWAY !

But again I come back to the same question .If Punch doesnt start today @ Norwich why didnt we bring him in on instead of Ging Gang ?????
What did he do wrong and why didnt he play ?
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probbo added 11:03 - Mar 10

I think that was a performance we've been waiting all season to see, especially you guys who go week in week out. I watched it on 'Football first' last night and it was a vast improvement all round - we actually looked like a 'team', reasonably comfortable in defence and actually quite menacing going forward.

I'm a fan of Adel but sometimes you have to think of the team and not an individual trying to do everything. I'm sure he'll be picked for upcoming matches against teams where Harry feels his presence will be needed.

Any result away at Villa next week and its game on!
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cranieboy added 12:27 - Mar 10

It was just fantastic to have a cohesive unit of a team and carry a threat all game, and to see us score goals again was wonderful. Mbia stayed on his feet mostly and he and park actually worked pretty well in the middle, just giving protection and giving the ball simple and quickly to get the wide men involved. Lets hope we carry it on to Villa now.
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Duncan_McCockin added 16:06 - Mar 10

awesome simply awesome 100% RECORD watching rochdale.

him who scored 2 is a real assett to team
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batmanhoop added 17:55 - Mar 10

green 7 bosingwa 7, fabio 6, hill 6, samba 6,
townsend 8, mbia 7, park 6, hoilett 6 , zamora 6, remy 6


the big difference for me is Park, Bosingwa and Hoilett are putting in a shift. Townsend has been a revelation, capped a fine display with a cracking goal
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tsbains64 added 20:54 - Mar 10

Two fantastic goals,great crowd and great to see Rangers playing some free flowing attacking football. Townsend contributed well but more impressed with Bosingwa. At last these guys are getting their act togther and playing as a team.Agree with a lot of the comments -missed Adel but his repalcements contributed to a brilliant result considering the position we are in. R block were back to their awesome best-though when we went 0-1 down some dissenting voices were heard-stick together and get behind the team especially when we are losing-thats when the tem need support. Great rousing finish form the Spurs old boys!! Yes-still think we can stay up just compare our run in to the other teams near the bottom
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Harbour added 09:54 - Mar 11

Awsome still on cloud 9... great to see the Rs playing well and getting another win on the board. Fabio Townsend Zamora Remy excellent a great all round team performance fingers x for villa
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geraldo added 14:06 - Mar 11

Duncan can't have seen Dale very many times if he rates Donnelly - he might have got two goals but his performances normally are abysmal!!
Great performance from the lads and particularly impressed by Henderson who put Donnelly's first goal on a plate for him!!
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jdalec added 15:29 - Mar 13

Drab. York City are a team we should have beaten. Best chance of the night fell to Georgie and he fluffed it.
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Bulgarian added 17:14 - Mar 16

Oh so sweet!
Big big cheers to everyone involved with the win. Having in mind how we started - the early gift from Shaw and a couple of scary slip ups - it was a great day underlining our spirit, so long may this continue.

Imo we won the game after the first 15 mins of the 2nd half. Huge credit to the boys for managing to close the opposition. After that it was the pure pleasure of seeing everybody in home shirts maturing on the pitch.

Credit must go to Liverpool - they allowed us to play football and I guess it was a very nice game to watch for the neutrals.

Incredible result, glorious team effort. Must work wonders for the remaining games. But tbh it was partly because LFC's style was not too different from ours. Chelsea is going to be a very, very big ask.
Oh so sweet.
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izlingtonhoop added 17:19 - Mar 16

Should've capitalised, goalwise, on a great first half's performance...
Can't help feeling Cesar coulda done better.
It all looks grim now...
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dangould added 17:32 - Mar 16

Thought we was top class 1st half keeper come out for cross but by then the should have been won we should have been at least 3 goals up and half time 2nd half forget about it
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e1337prodigy added 17:44 - Mar 16

It's over now, especially with Southampton beating Liverpool. Who was that QPR player who had the last shot of the game and blasted it over?! He had the chance of a lifetime to become a hero and the time to place that. Sidefoot it! don't punt it!!
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silverbackuk added 18:23 - Mar 16

Somehow wish we hadn't won the last two...I wouldn't feel as gutted now. Talk about the best team not winning. If Villa stay up it'll just be wrong!
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ShotKneesHoop added 18:37 - Mar 16

We murdered them, but failed to deal with the three rare times Villa threatened. Cesar had a real mare. Taraabt was jaw dropping amazing with the five gorgeous defence splitting passes to Remu. He came on way too late. How the foook did Villa won that - they were awful.
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geraldo added 18:58 - Mar 16

Earlier this week Hill said lge 2 is a rubbish league - so far he is proving to be a rubbish manager with 4 losses and just 2 wins. This is relegation form so just as well he didn't come till after Xmas!!
I think we should look elsewhere for next year's manager......
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RonisRs added 19:13 - Mar 16

its a sad day, a point at the end would have given hope, but i think we are done.
unless we win 5 of the last 8
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LostBoys added 20:50 - Mar 16

Excellent performance and we had Mr Illingsworth come and sit at the end of our row for a period. Thinking of moving?
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aceofthebase added 20:53 - Mar 16

Why didn't Puncheon come on as substitute? Has he fallen out with the POX? Any inside knowledge?

What an incredible result for Saints, I wondered where they were going to get any points from, now I think that they can get points from all their remaining games, home and away.
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no7saint added 20:54 - Mar 16

Some big performances today, agree with Bulgarian about the maturity, particularly Schneiderlin who is becoming one of the best midfielders in the PL (made Gerrard look ordinary). He was immense today and for me just edged MOTM over Boruc who put in a commanding display also. Plenty of other good performances (Clyne take a bow), great result and great atmosphere. COYR!!!
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MelakaRanger added 22:18 - Mar 16

Should of /could have been 3 nil up at half time. Only ourselves to blame for not being so far in front that the game would have been killed.

Bosingwa was a major weakness from the off and should have been subbed well before half time. He cost us the first goal for sure. He was awful (except that post hitting free kick)

Afraid to say, we are done for now.
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Dennick added 23:51 - Mar 16

Their goal keeper kept them in it and ours was at fault for their first two, we could have had three up by half time and parked the bus.
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Kaos_Agent added 03:15 - Mar 17

A very bad time for Cesar to lose focus and for our back line to lose its cohesion. Samba was great but I can't help but think that this is the sort of game where Nelsen would have saved a goal or two. And possibly Green as well. Well that's water under the bridge. Kudos to the away support. A great nail biting game to watch.

On the bright side our offense showed up for the third straight game. Townsend and Jenas are a revelation. Remy good but unfortunately not great today. Hoilett made some sublime attacking passes, as did Adel. Wonderful to see Taarabt's magic again.

The table certainly looks bad but we must go all out for wins now, so it should be enjoyable watching us attack the rest of the way.
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johnno added 05:59 - Mar 17

The goalkeepers were the difference!

It's a concern now that in consecutive games we have conceded through length of the field breaks after we have lost possession from attacking set plays. What a pity that we can't get Diakite playing to his full potential, I believe his athleticism and pace could provide the xfactor for the current line up and plug some of the gaps in these breakaway situations.

Bosingwa was caught out on a number of occasions although he was up against Villas best player GA. I still think Harry is right to play him. We are definitely working the ball out of the back much better now and he is a major part of that. He definitely has defensive fralities, not a news flash, so needs a worker infront of him. This way, when Traore is in the lineup we generally only have one of the back four consistently "lumping" the ball out of the back!

Can't fault the effort but the result was bitterly disappointing.

Samba,Mbia, Townsend, Jenas were the pick for me and a nice cameo from Taarabt.

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Harbour added 08:28 - Mar 17

From only seeing the highlights on mod it looked like we were very unlucky not to win given hitting the post and several world class saves from guzan in first half . bad defending on all their goals. 5 wins from 8 games looks like a big ask but at least under HR we are seeing a committed team fight and give it a go. if we go down i hope HR stays his signings have been superb and he is clearly a great motivator
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winchesterbob added 10:41 - Mar 17

3 points in the locker, a game to remember for all the right reasons and fifty quid off the bookies. I had a good day.

Trouble is we get a head of steam,and then its a week off and we are generally poo after a break of any sort, enjoy the moment!!
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francisbowles added 11:02 - Mar 17

Even though Villa never had a chance until first half stoppage time, we struggled early on with Remy on the right. He provides very little in front of Bosingwa who really needs a strong worker in that position. Then Harry switched it and Tonwsend swapped flanks and we looked more secure but had just moved the potential weakness to our left which is where their first goal originated from.

In the second half we brought on Hoilett and moved Remy up front on his own. Then we had the problem that the ball wouldn't stick and the momentum was very much against us. We didn't quite see out the hour before we were behind.

We then moved to three at the back with, I think Samba, Hill and Bosingwa on the left! Enter Tarabt. Suddenly, the ball not sticking was less of an issue as we started to play through them and playing balls in behind for Remy to tun onto.

We get to 2-2. Harry changes to a back four again. Eventually we concede third and again revert to a back three this time with Mbia on the right Bosingwa central and Hill on left, I think! Samba moves up front and near the end Mackie comes on.

We were far superior in the first half with Guzan keeping them in it. Second half first 15 was Villa's and then it became an end to end terrific battle in which we couldn't quite finish the chances that we created with Remy's header, Hill's last gasp effort (will he ever score?) amongst them.

Obviously, it becomes extremely difficult now. We have to find a way of accomodating Remy's strengths. Whilst strengthening the defense. It is the same problem we had with Cisse. 4-5-1 or 4-4-2 doesn't quite do it. Perhaps we should try 4-2-3-1 again
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francisbowles added 11:14 - Mar 17

Continued from above. We could start Remy in the three and when BZ comes off and the game opens up move him up front and get Adel playing through balls. We have a host of options for the other midfield positions in the three and the two. It was our preferred system in the Championship winning season and was probably only abandoned because we didn't have enough quality players to use it in the Prem.


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Doughnut added 11:39 - Mar 17

I'd given up before the Southampton game. 2 back to back wins and I was being enticed back in. Then yesterdays result. I should have known. Lift a little....give hope....then Drop! A day in the life of a R! But can't fault the commitment. If only it had started acouple of months earlier.
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tsbains64 added 13:33 - Mar 18

Based on the Saturday highlight-admiral display in the first half should have been 3-0 up but great kepping by Guzan
Fought back well in the second half which shows the attitude the Harry has instilled in the team
Almost got an equaliser-if only Hill had kept the ball down
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geraldo added 12:48 - Mar 20

Some great football especially in first half - altho we should have had more goals.Donnelly scored a wonder ( lucky?) goal but after that was guilty of some rash finishing - Grant seems to have gone off the boil since Hill came and what has happened to Tutte?
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jdalec added 20:10 - Mar 29

Dire performance against poor opposition. Will never understand why Hill brought Thompson back, he is crap. Hats off to the travelling support who never stopped singing and getting behind their team despite being stood on the trapdoor of the football league
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geraldo added 21:24 - Mar 29

Don't understand why Hill made no substitutions, it's as tho he was happy with a draw against the bottom of the league. Both thompson and Grant had poor games and there were ready made subs on the bench in Haworth and Grimes, why are we playing a totally left footed player at right back - it means he cannot attack cos he can't cross the ball!
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aceofthebase added 17:01 - Mar 30

Fantastic team performance, Saints look a quality side. Now let's beat Reading, sorry Nigel.
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Bulgarian added 17:07 - Mar 30

What a brilliant team effort! We have every reason to be happy: again, it's great to be a Saints fan today.

Everybody that played deserves high praise, and special cheers to all our fans who again proved SMS to be such a vivid ground!

It is however a strange, strange game: so much effort and team spirit and we still could have easily drawn or even lost: the costly lapses of defensive astuteness, both our keepers' kicking, Lampard's freekicks - it wouldn't have been fair, but it was a real possibility till the 90th minute. So let's not get carried away: Reading will be very tough, we should back the boys right until the very end even if the score is not in our favor.

But after all - let's just be happy! Hero status to SRL, Spider and Cork, rising careers for JRod, Clyne and Shaw, incredible support: today we proved that we are definitely a club on the up. Thank you guys!
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LostBoys added 18:48 - Mar 30

Great game great support very pleased I cannot wait until Reading
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Yorkshire_Dale added 19:44 - Mar 30

Please Hilly,don't get all stubborn like Soft Lad.....No Subs when the game is shite and Plan B might just help.

Soft Lad alienated the fans by this sort of display,keeping all his favourites on the pitch when we all could see they were crap.
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grumpyoldsaint added 19:52 - Mar 30

according to the press we keep beating top teams who are having off days do these journos actually watch games
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MelakaRanger added 22:38 - Apr 1

We gifted Villa the 3 points

We wrapped it up in gold leaf and gifted Fulham 4 goals and the 3 points

The team was nervous throughout and only Townsend and M'Bia seemed up for the fight.

Hill had a nightmare and Samba too

The commentator never used the word 'Remy' in the first 30 mins!!!

The past 2 weeks have summed up our season and I reckon there will be a good few more 3-2 defeats over the next 7 games

Roll on next season!
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MelakaRanger added 23:43 - Apr 1

4 goals!!! Wow what a typo and no way of editing post!!

That's the trouble with waking at 3am to watch the match live over here :)

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Nov77 added 03:04 - Apr 2

I wonder if the reason we defended so deep first half was to accommodate hill's lack of pace. When onuaha came on we pushed up, squeezed the space and stopped fulham from playing, but of course by then it was too late.

Radio commentator said about samba, '"£100,000 a week? I wouldn't pay him one pound a week on that performance".
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MelakaRanger added 05:56 - Apr 2

Samba had a 'Mare'. Hill had a 'Mare'.

Besides our gifting of the 3 goals, Cesar had next to nothing to do all game.

Samba had a very very bad day at the office but can still be at the heart of our defence next season. Regrettably, though I feel that Hill just doesn't have the legs to last beyond maybe 20 odd games next season. He has been a great servant to the club but his best is behind him.
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probbo added 08:36 - Apr 2

I'd hoped that after a two week break and given the situation we are we'd have come out all guns blazing against an admittedly in form Fulham. Yet we hardly saw the ball in the first 30 minutes. The first half can be summed up in one word - Samba!

We were much better in the second half and on the balance of play and I harboured hopes of a draw but three goals proved too much.

I thought Jenas did very little hast night and would have taken him off for Hoilett rather than Tarbs. Townsend was my man of the match but i'd have liked to have seen him switched across to the left side when Traore went off (or sooner) - I think he could have caused Riise problems and crossed much better with his left foot. He was going some great work down the right wing but his deliveries were not great last night.

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Kaos_Agent added 09:49 - Apr 2

Cannot stay up with defensive outings like that. Far too much time and space allowed, as well as the sloppy footwork. With Nelsen on board we'd be six points ahead by now.

M'Bia was everywhere and played cleanly. MoM for me.
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Doughnut added 10:37 - Apr 2

Curtains!!! Seeya in the Championship.
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EssexHoop added 13:01 - Apr 2

Embarrassing first half, gave fulham way too much space, 3rd goal no one put in a challenge. I actually felt a bit of relief as that faint bit of hope i had was extinguished. But then a much improved second half display went and raised my hopes again! Actually came out looking hungry for it and looked like a team that felt they could win. Tactics still concern me. cesar is clearly not comfortable kicking, yet we insist on making him launch it (not very far) I dont like seeing remy out wide, he was bought to score the goals to keep us up, yet he's stuck out on the wing first half. second half more central, scores and should of at least hit the target with another. But the biggest mistake was the 2nd+3rd substitutions, we seemed less likely to score from that point on
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izlingtonhoop added 14:43 - Apr 2

MelakaRanger
I genuinely had no idea - or had forgotten - Remy was playing until the moment he stepped forward to take (if that is the word) the penalty.
An awful night, humiliation then hope, but not really.
If it were done when 'tis done, then 'twere well
It were done quickly
But no doubt we'll beat Wigan on Sunday just to drag out the agony... :-(
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double_m added 16:10 - Apr 2

Harry complained about Samba going up front for the last 10 minutes and going on about us being a passing team. Well chris obviously had no one to pass to in the lead up to their second goal and i think this points to our problems in the first half. The players just didn't look comfortable with the formation in the first half and that was obviously Harry's call.
Looked a different team in the 2nd half winning a corner after 7 seconds and the defensive frailties of our attack minded full backs not apparent.
Basically with Adel failing as an outlet in the middle of the park, our defensively weak wide pairings being called into question was always going to put pressure on the centre halves.
They couldn't handle it and Harry fails to counter curse of Mark Hughes again.

Hopefully he's more clued up as to what he can and can't do. Here's to back to back wins starting on Sunday.

UUU RRR'SSS


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Dennick added 12:39 - Apr 4

Like Melaka up at 3am but after the first 30 mins I went back to bed, disgracful display I,ve seen better pub teams. we're rubbish and we're going down-league tables dont lie.
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Bulgarian added 15:18 - Apr 6

Another great win with accomplished performance. What looked like a potential heartbreaking clash with NA turned out to be a pretty uneventful encounter on the touchlines.

However, we have to thank Reading's toothless attackers for giving us the 3 points without more fight.

About the penalty and goal shouts:
1) Funny, one site just reported Hooi's tackle as "agricultural" - now, I have never been a big fan of Hooi's, but to be fair he did nothing wrong - a good challenge with absolutely no real reason for a pen.

2) Boruc - maybe at times today he looked over-confident, but he managed to push the ball off the line in the last dying moment: great decision. Absolutely no goal: and I'm trying to be truly unbiased here.

Overall: despite our defencive frailties (if not the panic would have been funny), what a joy to watch the guys going forward. A little more concentration/accuracy and we will be smashing.
COYR
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ugliest added 20:15 - Apr 6

It looks like we have lost with at least 3 goals difference, looking at the ratings.....real supporters again!
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SaintNick added 22:05 - Apr 6

This was a functional win rather than a dominant one, we did what we had to do, we didn't fire on all cylinders, if that doesn't make me a real supporter then so be it
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ugliest added 22:47 - Apr 6

So you must have been making these ratngs all alone?!
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dirk_doone added 11:52 - Apr 7

I don't think it's Nick's fault. It appears that a few people, who are not necessarily Saints' fans, are sabotaging the ratings, as no matter how well the team plays, the ratings are never very good. Of the 35 players listed only two of them average over 7 for the season.
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ozranger added 19:08 - Apr 7

Was Jenas playing in the second half? I hardly ever heard his name and the one who was winning the tackles in the midfield was Mbia, not Jenas. I am a bit worried that he is a "Harry player" and thus will get to play no matter what. Townsend was MoM with Remy a close second. Bosingwa also played quite well and actually went in for some contested headers.
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probbo added 19:25 - Apr 7

I'm totally numb after watching that - how can they keep doing it to us?!!

The ref had little choice with Zamora's 'high boot' and it was a good showing with 10 outfield players, esp in the second class. A world class strike by Remy betrayed by the most moronic of fouls conceded by M'bia at the end.

And a fair point Oz about Jenas - I thought he was pretty quiet against Fulham too. Another great showing by Townsend - it would be great if we could get him on a permanent signing but I think we'd need to stay up.

So the agony goes on but i'll be at the Everton game next week. I'm going over for the weekend with my wife so it will be nice to see the match and share in the pleasure and pain first hand!

As an aside I was quite disappointed with Wigan - I thought they'd have gone for the jugular after Zamora's dismissal but they were pretty poor in the second half. Results elsewhere didn't do them any favours either.
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probbo added 19:44 - Apr 7

..9 outfield players.
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probbo added 19:52 - Apr 7

..9 outfield players.
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LostBoys added 19:59 - Apr 7

Good performance if a little below recent weeks but more than enough for a poor Reading side. I was a bit worried about asome of the poor clearances by our central defenders but hey ho another three points is great. I though the Reading support was poorer than any away game I have attended and there seemed to be a huge number of empty blue seats. Song of the day 'was Nigel Adkins - he's too good for you' which hit home.
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RonisRs added 20:20 - Apr 7

i am gutted
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EssexHoop added 22:16 - Apr 7

sickening, another chance slips away. Thought we were the better side, but didnt create enough. Remy goal aside dont think we had another shot on target? Townsend was superb again and it turns out he can cross with his right! samba and hill looked shaky at best in contrast to onuoha who did really well when he came on. We don't win enough headers in the middle of the park, puts us on the back foot from their and our own goal kicks everytime.
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HollowayRanger added 23:13 - Apr 7

wigan were woeful but yet again someone steps up to the plate for us and stabs as in the back its amazing how we always seem to be able to find a way to blow a match
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Doughnut added 23:21 - Apr 7

70mins with 10 men, 3 mins to hold on, with a 1-0 lead...and........once again, snatch defeat from the jaws and give them every chance by conceding a free kick! Sickening again.
Writing on the wall i'm afarid. Doesn't do your health any good supporting this lot every week.
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MelakaRanger added 23:50 - Apr 7

Sadly as many time before, we shoot ourselves in the foot.

Mbias last minute push that got them the free kick was totally unnecessary.

We gifted Villa 3 points, we gifted Fulham 3 points and we gifted Wigan 1 point.

Without our rank stupidity we would be 8 points better off - just from the last 3 games - and would most probably be looking at certain survival.

Sad.
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Dennick added 07:09 - Apr 8

I felt sick when Mbia clattered into Mahoney, you could see what was coming, i think the loss of Zamora was a killer blow that we did well to recover from and there were some good performances out there today.
We have made ( and ruined) our own luck this year, there are few occasions when we weren't responsible for our own demise and today was no exception.
Personally i dont care if Zamora and Taarabt are never seen in our colours again, Townsend is a star and Bosingwa is rehabilitated.
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MelakaRanger added 07:59 - Apr 8

Strong sentiments Dennick!

Maybe the club should bite the bullet and send Zamora off for his hip operation now. Then allowing 6 months recovery he will be available very early next season rather than Xmas time.

He could be very useful in the Championship
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dixiedean added 10:05 - Apr 8

I feel sorry for Townsend who is tirelss and has been in every game he's played. Mackie with skill basically. He has brought a great attitude and vigour since he came and has shown a few people up . Pity we won't keep him next season. Pity there are a few others we'll probably have to keep :(
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RonisRs added 10:07 - Apr 8

Yup, BZ is suspended for 3 matches, so might as well have his op and give somebody who is fitter, in one piece and should be given a chance ie Bothroyd.
6 games to go - 18 points, with Stoke in freefall, Sunderland tough run in, Wigan surely cant beat it yet again.
One can only dream. .........
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highlandbill added 10:23 - Apr 8

It was torture! In over 60 years of watching football the last 2 seasons have provided so little joy. Great strike by remy but only a small consolation for the end result. R's must be the unluckiest team on the planet. I am beginning to accept that we are just not good enough. Perhaps the most depressing factor is that our best player (by a mile) is only a loanee. There is no way Spurs will let us have him,he is destined for greatness, what committment & spirit he shows. Among the rest only Mackie comes close ,its such a shame he does not have the same skills as Andros. I am going to find it very difficult to do my usual 120 journey for the remaining games but will not give up hope until the maths are impossible.
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geraldo added 15:50 - Apr 8

This was a fantastic performance and Dale never looked in any danger.There was a great fluidity going forward and the two central defenders were rock solid.I am finally seeing the benefit of having Cav in the side as it allows JK to get further forward and what a strike for the 3rd goal!!
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e1337prodigy added 19:22 - Apr 8

@MelakaRanger - I was upset before but now I am really sad. That's a really good point, those 8 points better off would have given so much confidence and also made all the teams around us start to panic.

I know I shouldn't, but as soon as we scored I had to put a bet on Wigan equalising. So at least I won £50, which might just pay for a ticket in the championship.

Also, why is it that almost every loan player we get seems to play with more heart than our actual contracted players. Townsend and Walker (when he was on loan to us). Such a shame we couldn't sign either of them. Look at Walker now!!
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Dennick added 05:39 - Apr 9

Melaka
Strong sentiments maybe but not based on one match,I have doubed BZ's commitment and desire to play for us for some time, disinterest is the term that springs to mind most often in his case.
Taarapt is the most frustrating player we have had since Stan used to wander round looking for lost betting tickets, but not in the same class and the amount of times he wastes the ball is not compensated often enough with good moves or great goals to make him valuable in my book.
That said I would love to have to eat my words some time soon, your last line may well be true if he wants to play.
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probbo added 18:01 - Apr 13

We were extremely poor. Bizarre choice to start with Park and Granero. Held our own for 30 mins and the first goal was a wicked deflection but after half time only one team came out. I was in the top balcony down the away end of the ground and had a great view of the travelling Rs fans. Credit to you all, you deserve better.
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Dennick added 01:58 - Apr 14

Another heartless display from a group who look like they have never trained together, dont like each other and cant get home quick enough, no wonder Harry's angry - isnt everyone?
In truth we were probably too far gone by the end of January and a change of attitude was going to be as important as a change of players,we got the players but no change in determination,pride or the guts to have a go.
I cant watch anymore, dont want to-its depressing.
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QPRNZ added 05:37 - Apr 14

Have Everton ever had a more comfortable win? Men against boys, team with its spirit broken.
The only players showing any class are Remy and Townsend and they are very unlikely to be present for long. You have to worry even about next year in the championship - where is the semblance of a team that can compete?
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LostBoys added 06:37 - Apr 14

Should have won against a dreadful side. Needless free kick given away.
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silverbackuk added 09:08 - Apr 14

We are like a rabbit that's been hit by a car. Someone needs to get a big shovel and put us out of our misery...
Let's get this season out of the way, let Harry sort out the team in the summer and av a punt at getting promotion back up next season.
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QPunkR added 11:01 - Apr 14

Has there ever been a more lilly-livered midfield 3 than Granero, Park and Jenas??? Honestly couldn't believe he'd started with those, we were up against it from the 1st whistle to the last
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francisbowles added 13:38 - Apr 14

I think that Harry went with the best that was available with Mbia missing out to avoid a ban. The start was ok until we conceded. The timing and nature of the first goal were crushing. After that Everton showed there class and killer instinct. If they had a stronger squad they would be even higher in the league.

With Diakite not having played for ages it would have been a huge gamble to have started him, he did ok when he came on. Granero obviously picked for his ability to play through balls to Remy but it didn't happen enough.

We also seemed to find ourselves overwhelmed physically which should improve when Mbia returns and maybe we will see more of Diakite.
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MelakaRanger added 08:24 - Apr 15

Silverbackuk

I am with you on this

Not one player earned his money. I know I am painting with na wide brush here but the attitudes were all wrong. BIG changes are needed. Lets leave Harry & Tony alone to do whats they believe is best to fix things and keep the faith in both of them.

But kudos to the fans. The small band stuck in the far corner out sung the home crowd and even at two nil down sang ' the finest football team the world has ever seen'....... They must have been freezing, wet and disappointed but they tried their best to raise the team.

Sadly the team didn't seem to give a toss.

But I was proud to be there. Not because of the team but because of the supporters. I was lucky to be under cover in a 'posh seat' and was able to keep dry. My hat goes off to them, one and all. They deserve better. Hopefully next season it will be delivered

COYRs




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daveB added 11:23 - Apr 18

it was crap
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Harbour added 19:27 - Apr 20

Awful game we and stoke looked like championship team's thought green could have done better with first goal but pulled off good save before that . Was in upper loft so did not see our shout for pen or the one given to stoke hope relegation confirmed on Mon so we start planning for championship
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LostBoys added 21:26 - Apr 20

Could have won should have won but so could they. I am worried by the piss poor form of Lallana we cannot keep carrying him. Well done to Fox dreadful at times against dyer but overall did well.
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francisbowles added 22:10 - Apr 20

Over the years this has become the script, start brightly, go close but don't score early on and then concede against the run of play. Then proceed to get worse and not get the win.

As well as the above, pitch was awful. Before anyone says it is the same for both sides, only one was trying to keep the ball on the ground. (unfortunately, failing to control it)

I will also be glad to see the end of this season. Nothing seems to be going right. Going a goal behind and then losing our two most creative players to injury. Ref was very poor as well. What happened when Tarabt was injured in the first half? I thought he had blown for a free kick and then he restarted with a drop ball!

I want to see the highlights tonight before I mark the players as I am not sure who was culpable for the first goal.

Please give us a win before the end of the season!

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MelakaRanger added 00:43 - Apr 21

A sad performance indeed. At 70 mins the TV showed Goal Attempts. I think it was QPR 23 Stoke 4. What the..... 23 goal attempts of which maybe 1 or 2 could realistically be called 'attempts'

Loads of off target shots from 25-30 yds instead of stopping, thinking, looking and then passing or carrying on.

Our passing was rubbish, our spot kicks rubbish. Indeed we were rubbish and Stoke were not that much better at all.

Hoilett was forever brushed off the ball, he just has not got any strength or presence. Hill gave away a stupid penalty. That's 3 own goals in 3 games for him effectively. Samba not the man mountain we have been told he is. M'bia had a quiet game too. Strangely Boswinga didn't have a 'bad' game

I cant see us getting another point this season. I cant see this team doing well in the Championship without major surgery.

I too hope that before next weekend we are down as that will change the line up and maybe Harry will play just those who will be staying and start to rebuild from there.
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Dennick added 03:40 - Apr 21

We made Stoke look better than they are simply wth poor passing, shooting from a long range and failing to hold the ball in the middle again. The truth is we dont have the talent to stay in the PL and never have had. I hope the sell off starts soon and a young side built around two -three outstanding youngsters is the way we go even if it takes an extra year or so to get back .
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probbo added 10:03 - Apr 21

It was inevitable we'd lose to a team who prior to the start had only won once away this season and that Crouch, one of our allegged January targets, would score only his second goal in 27 matches. Its a shame Diakite didn't get a start after coming on last week but I don't think he'd have made much difference.
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TreeHugger added 11:10 - Apr 21

Bit harsh on AL. he did ok, just as everyone else did. No one really played that well, can hardly pick AL out. He has just come back from injury, prior to that he was making Ramirez look like a shower of sh*t. England call up, bagged a few goals, scored on his return from injury….the boy is class. That was fox’s best game this season. He is a half decent squad player that might be worth hanging on to come end of the season. Lambert looked knackered, so did Jrod. Puncheon didn’t offer much when he came on but I just think it was one of those game. It’s good to see that Poch is making subs a lot quicker than Adkins would. He is also making more of the right ones from what I can see. Great save from boruc at the end as well.
Only negative was Poch’s jeans, too short and too tight. I think him and NC were going on the piss straight after the game
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probbo added 12:23 - Apr 21

It was inevitable we'd lose to a team who prior to the start had only won once away this season and that Crouch, one of our allegged January targets, would score only his second goal in 27 matches. Its a shame Diakite didn't get a start after coming on last week but I don't think he'd have made much difference.
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Noelmc added 13:36 - Apr 21

It was a game when we needed to score first to lift the players and the crowd and we started reasonably brightly with Adel posing a real threat. However Stoke had obviously done their homework and realised how poor we are on free kicks in promising positions and cynically fouled to break up threatening attacks, aided by the lenient Chris Foy who kept his yellow card in his pocket. They then easily coped with the resulting free kicks.

After Crouchie's goal our remaining hopes of geeting back in the game went with the departures of Townsend & Taarabt through injury. Any creativity went with them.

Hoilett was once again very poor and it seemed that every time the ball went to him we lost possesion. He's far too lightweight in my opinion, another SWP. The low mark so far for Samba however seems a bit harsh as I thought he was reasonably solid apart from the first goal and had a couple of very decent goal attempts.

The only bright spot for me was meeting and chatting to the LFW crew in the Crown & Sceptre before the game. This website and their efforts with it, have been by far the best thing in this depressing season. Keep up the great work, Clive & all.
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tsbains64 added 14:48 - Apr 21

if only......that sums up our season really.
We started so brightly-if only one of those chances had gone in
Remy was delightful to watch,Taarabt was impressive and Townsend was his usual incisive self.
Shame we went 0-1 down to their only attempt on goal but was there a foul in the build up...if only
Second huddle was a good idea but why did Mackie not join in?
We hustled and bustled but Stoke were the better team. Hill looked innocent but was guilty like hell
If we cant beat an Stoke then the Championship is the only option
Looking around I wonder what the line up will be in August?
I hoe a few of the bug signings stay...but if only!!
Delightful support from the fans from Norway....shame about the result
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SaintNick added 08:20 - Apr 22

Contary to the belief of some, Im not that great a fan of Fox, but I find myself sticking up for him just because of the pack mentality that surrounds him, on Saturday he did well and perhaps lostboys would like to consider that the times he looked dreadful was the times he found himself exposed due to Adam lallana not covering back.

In Fridays preview I was lambasted for daring to suggest that Pochettino might not automatically put Shaw straight back in the team, personally I thought that maybe he should have, but the manager made the decision not me and it turned out to work
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LostBoys added 10:09 - Apr 22

Fair point but as an example when Dyer cut inside him and Fox thought he was going outside which Dyer rarely does. Other than a few lapses I thought Fox had a really good game and I would not like to play behind Lallana and it became obvious when Swansea changed their shape with Routledge coming on to exploit right midfield.

While I accept that no one except Cork had a really good game, I thought Lallana was dreadful in and out of possession and the lazy backheel in the first half when we were 4 on 3 was poor. also I do not like him remonstrating with the full back whether it be Fox or Shaw when he is the one that has given the ball away or has not tracked back. I would not have made him skipper and I think he should relinquish it until he gets his form back.
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aceofthebase added 16:29 - Apr 27

Sack the POX and bring back Adkins. The POX has no ideas
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LostBoys added 22:02 - Apr 27

Pretty awful stuff as the defence except Clyne struggled to deal with the West Brom attack. Below par performances by most of the team except for Schneiderlin, Davis and Clyne. I do not eant to single anyone out or debate the Ramirez sending off after being fouled by Long three times but Fox and lallana were both piss poor. Lallana seems to have lost his form completely.
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LostBoys added 22:06 - Apr 27

I forgot - if you have had a really crap game and have been pulled please dont go on the radio and tell us how disappointed you are - there were 28,000 Saints fans more disappointed than you.
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ugliest added 23:44 - Apr 27

Just bad all over the place, nobody reached his capacities
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winchesterbob added 13:22 - Apr 28

WBA came with a good plan and gave us a lesson in defending and attacking. MoPo had no plan to cope or counter. Apart from that completely agree with LostBoys.
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RonisRs added 18:42 - Apr 28

Barton's comment on Twitter about JB sums it up, lets hope he and the other slackers are out of there come summer clearance time.
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smegma added 19:27 - Apr 28

I cannot believe after 12 votes there are 6 or 7 players on 5+++. Traore was our best player on 6, followed by Hill and Green on 6 also. The rest ?? 4 maximum with Jenas/Betty on minus scores. Today is the 40th anniversary of my first game ( we got promoted !!) and never in 4 decades have I witnessed such an insipid, couldn't care less attitude. I hope they all f*ck off bar Remy & Hill.
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W10Lad added 19:57 - Apr 28

The facts about Bosingwa laughing in the tunnel are immaterial. He exemplifies the lack of effort and interest but he's not alone. The responsibility really rests with Hughes, who brought in a bunch of mercenaries that just took the money and ran. Unpopular though this comment will seem, the fans who constantly moan and barrack players have had a part to play. As abject as the performance against Stoke was it was wonderful to hear the Loft singing with support and pride. I wish I could say the same for all the fans. We haven't been that smart but I do believe the owners have a plan - we should get behind it (even though it may not be obvious) and the team. Up the Rs! I'd love to shove that up Hughes and his meticulous planning.
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probbo added 20:59 - Apr 28

Now that we have succumbed to the inevitable, i'm looking forward to next season. Hopefully the Club/Redknapp will have success offloading some/all these underachieving prima donnas and get some young blood in who can both play and are prepared to die for the cause. It may take a season or two and there may be further pain along the way but hopefully we'll get there and come back stronger for the experience. I curse Hughes for everything he did to our Club but we need to look to the future and move on.
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harrapuk added 21:09 - Apr 28

Thank goodness for Spurs late equaliser at Wigan.

Next 2 matches look very difficult so could still all go to the last day.
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simmo400 added 06:17 - Apr 29

A very poor day at the office.
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redblooded added 08:15 - Apr 29

I think our blaming our own team is taking a lot away from WBA. They obviously knew the boom ball over the top is our weakness, and they had two players up front with the quality to exploit this. And to be honest WBA were just as good with the ball on the floor and the passing game.

Their scoring first was the clincher, WBA could then defend deep and catch us on the counter attack. Which they did with regularity and quality.

Our attack was ponderous, there was little movement off the ball and you could see the game slow down every time Saints got the ball, there was only ever one pass open to our player on the ball and that was inevitably a back-pass.

I think this is just a blip for our team. We have to be more canny and defensive at the start against quality teams, and WBA are a quality team, no doubt. Saints need to score first as it suits our style of play to have the opposition attacking or chasing the game.

It is unfair to constantly blame the defence as they are usually left to handle attackers on their own due to the mid-field being to high up the pitch. As much as we hate it the "boom-ball" is our Achilles heel, and we need to find a way to counter it.
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LesVivian added 09:33 - Apr 29

Nothing has been said about the dreadful substitution at half-time! Taking off Jack Cork, if he was not injured, must rate as the worst tactical decision since Nigel took off Lambert, Puncheon and Lallana against Manchester United! Jack Cork is one of the best midfielders of his type in the league - pinching the ball, letting it run in order to make space, and laying it off to colleagues in good postions. Terrible decision!
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Dennick added 12:12 - Apr 29

What rubbish from two of the most useless teams ever in the PL, Sky should refuse to broadcast crap like this.
Harry's comments about the game are starting to make me wonder about his judgement, if he thinks spineless turnouts like this are acceptable then he can go with most of the second rate scivers that turned out for us this year,bloody disgraceful.
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harrapuk added 18:57 - May 4

Absolute agony. The inevitability of the Wigan win and the equal inevitability of a late Spurs winner (almost as inevitable that it would be Gareth Bale).

For weeks now we have waited for the final life-saving win that would guarantee safety and week after week has passed with teams around us closing in ominously.

I am astounded that you can get as big as 30/1 on us going down on Betfair as the way I see it we are in the thick of a relegation battle.

If we don't win at least one of our next 2 matches - which are now must win as opposed to would be nice to win - then we have a real chance of going down.

As for rating the players, well we totally outplayed Spurs first half and early part of second half. How did Clyne miss the target when clean through with just their keeper to beat - a hugely costly miss?
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redblooded added 21:02 - May 4

Saints again showed some fancy football and for large amounts of time in the first half looked the far better team, but in the second half that was their undoing. Too many times Saints played the "pretty" game, rather than the direct attack route. This led to Saints losing the ball going forward far too often, and allowed Spurs, who had been previously stifled to get back into the game. Even then Spurs looked toothless and lacking in penetration and ideas. But having a player like Bale he needed only one chance and took it. Hats off to the player of the year, but again Saints are left to rue their untamed chances. The difference in the PL between a good and a struggling team, can be chances taken or squandered. I hope we are the former. Ps, good away support.
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aceofthebase added 22:47 - May 4

If the POX takes us down i will be fuming.

We just did not deserve to lose this match.

Bleedin Bale, what a cracker
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BoondockSaint added 01:34 - May 5

Right you are harrapuk. I'm of two minds:

The calm one: Well, on paper we knew this was going to be hard ask to win or maybe draw the way Spurs and particularly Bale (where would they be without him?) are playing. When he was kicked in the box, it should have been a penalty so maybe the late goal was justice.

The one watching the game: Ok, a draw is good. Maybe we don't want to score too early and wake them up. Punch-Drunk coming on??-We could lose this now. MP changing a line up that was hanging in and getting chances--didn't NA get sacked for that?
Will someone just trip Bale up? He's outside the box-GOAL! AGGH! Sort of knew that was going to happen.

Why do I have to spend the last month of every season screaming "JUST WIN ONE GAME! JUST ONE! PLEASE!" ?
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tsbains64 added 09:52 - May 5

Recovered well after such a disastrous start. Some good performances from Green,Hill and Ben Haim.
Jenas seems to light weight in the midfield-surely Granero can do a job there-he seems to be making all the right noises for next year.
Impressed with the Gunners fans-think we were second best
Getting to like Onuoha-think he would make a great partner in defense with Hill or Samba-if he stays.
Usual darting runs from Townsend-do any of you think he will stay?
Still cant get used to the idea of Barnsley and Millwall coming to visit us next year
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montecristo added 17:54 - May 12

poor poor game Saints came for the point and eventually got it although to be frank it would have been no surprise if they had gone and lost this one. They were negative, offered little going forward and were sluggish in the extreme in the final third. I was screaming for Puncheon to be brought on with half an hour to go thats how important he has become for Saints. Llalana had a really poor game and were it not for the fact that there is only one more game to go Id leave him out of the team next week.
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londonscottish added 18:00 - May 12

Shambles.
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izlingtonhoop added 18:52 - May 12

I'm a little drunk right now.
So control oneself.
And I think I've thought Bosingwa can't really be that bad...
But today, oh, I'm not a man of violence, but I want him hurt...
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landsdownsaint added 19:29 - May 12

Sunderland we're poor ...if we had a prolific striker we'd be top6 ...fact!
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bloberts added 20:20 - May 12

All the fans booing are team are disgraceful, they are the reason we lost today. Half of them wont be here next season. SCUM
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N12Hoop added 22:21 - May 12

A truly sh1t day to end a truly sh1t season. Harry's got his work cut out.
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MelakaRanger added 23:30 - May 12

No skill, no heart, no fight and couldn't even trouble 10 men.

Once again we gifted points away.

Bosingwa sums up entirely what Hughes has done to the club

This team needs major surgery to avoid the drop next season too
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Dennick added 23:53 - May 12

Have to agree with Melaka, we need major changes to survive next season. Harry has his work cut out over summer to put a decent team together, there should 'nt be many survivors from this shower.
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HollowayRanger added 00:30 - May 13

THERE really should be a minus option!
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LostBoys added 01:32 - May 13

I could only listen on the radio, watch the MOD highlights and read the post match comments of the stars who were able to go to Sunderland. I think this is a bit ground hog day - did not play that well - should still have won easily - struggled to get a draw. Their goal was typical - Bardsley in huge space left by Lallana and the shot deflected past Boruc by Hoooiveldt moving back towards his goal line. Seen it all before. Worried by apparently another piss poor game from Lallana - making him skipper has ruined his game - one of Nigel's worst decisions and needs to be rectified for next season.
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TreeHugger added 06:59 - May 13

have i missed something??? we just secured safety, we are now staying in the premiership!! this was a great point. we dominated the first half and if Jrod and Lambo had there shooting boots on we would have wrapped it up. Sunderland were always going to come into the game and made the most of their 10minute spell by getting a goal. Credit to the players who didn't panic, carried on and got a vital goal to secure safety. if we had played amazing and lost, we would all be saying its not about the performance at this stage, just about the points. When we get the point you still moan. We can now enjoy Sunday knowing we are safe. the boys will want to win the last game of the season lets enjoy the day! looking forward to some new signings in the summer and will give a big thanks to the guys leaving as they got us here.
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probbo added 08:38 - May 13

The league table doesn't lie.

We need to (as far as possible) clear the decks and start again. I don't want to tempt fate but after plumbing the depths that we have this season, there's hopefully one way to go.
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walshy15a added 09:01 - May 13

Boswinga deserved every insult he got ,gifts 2 goals to the toon ,A truly terrible so called professional
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RonisRs added 09:26 - May 13

What a shocker. I remember the last Newcastle game, when we at least tried and nearly came a way with something. Not much to play for this coming Saturday for both teams, so hopefully we wont get a complete drubbing.
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izlingtonhoop added 09:28 - May 13

Of course I meant to use the word 'to' in front of 'hurt'. In a non-physical manner... No actual bodily damage. Yuk...
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tsbains64 added 11:11 - May 13

Shame on the people boo-ing Bosingwa. I know he played poorly but to turn on your own player is not what real fans do!!
A number of players played under par-did they get any boo-oing?
It seemed so promising after going 1-0 up-Hoilletts only contribution in this match.The second of their goals was a poor kick up from Green rather than the right backs fault.
Great to see Derry and Fabio make a difference in the second half.To be beaten by a poor Newcastle team was very disappointing but sadly par for the course this season. The players should have got a lap of achievement if not honour at the end .
Will we get any full houses next season?I for one will be there
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Imelda added 11:44 - May 13

Whilst I agree that both Bosingwa and M'bia (disapointingly in my opinion) have proved themselves to be the overpaid mercenaries they are, I don't think they should have been booed when they were playing. Make your feelings known when the teams were read out but I would never do that on the pitch because it affects the rest of the team as well.

They were utterly stupid to think that they could get away with their attitude and their tweets - do they really think that this is going to impress other clubs if they want to move on? And other fans?

I am just looking forward to the clearout now over the summer and a fresh start next season
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quickpassrotter added 15:33 - May 13

We were poor ..... as usual. No invention in midfield , and I mean the middle of the park - not meaning coming in from the wings where AT always looks a threat. Junior's ball control and retention in non existent. It will take at least two seasons to wash through this squad and rebuild with something decent. If we get top ten next season then I will be surprised. Two other observations -1. How can Adel change a game with 6 minutes play time. Ridiculous.
2. I will never, ever, ever boo a player in the R's shirt regardless of how bad he is. What is the sense of this ?
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Royboy48 added 00:35 - May 14

A dreary end to a dreary season

Being peed upon by drizzle in F block Paddock East is a suitable metaphor for the entire season

I can't be arsed to Rate The Players, they are not worth assessing

Worth noting that Danny Gabbidon made it to Wembley tonight

Say Goodnight To The Folks Gracie, in particular

Traore
Johnson
Hoilett
Diakite
Ferdinand
Park
Cisse
Wright-Phillips
Onuoha
Mbia
Dyer
Zamora
Cesar
Granero
Bosingwa
Barton
Hulse
Samba


Thanks Remy, Townsend and Fabio - you'll go too

Good luck in Canada Ben Haim, Nelsen and Ephraim - we could have used all of you

Please stick around, Adel
Stuck with Jenas
Welcome back Ali F

Leaving us with

Green
Derry
Hill
Mackie
Murphy
Campbell
Bothroyd
Andrade
Balanta
German
Harryman

Make of that what you will...


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walshy15a added 17:56 - May 19

Good performance ,Fu*ck the result ,well done Harriman ,roll on next season !!
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MelakaRanger added 23:46 - May 19

Well done Harryman!

Toothless attack yet again. Many times Townsend threw his arms up with 'where is everyone' look - because there was no one moving forward, making space.

Cant see why Harry thinks Zamora is exactly what we need next year. He has been quite for many may weeks now. What exactly does he do?

How many that started today will start first game next season? Maybe 4 or 5?
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Dennick added 05:02 - May 20

its almost a relief that's over, we all need a holiday.
Harriman had a very good game, well done , quite agree with Melaka re Zamora but frankly we have hardly had a forward worth his place this year with the exception of Remy, really sorry to see Townsend go.
Clint Hill solid performance most of the year and Ryan Nelson sorely missed.
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bermudajack added 21:06 - Aug 17

A strange game, not a 4-1 mauling that will be in print tomorrow, some great work and long periods of dominance during the game. However, out thought again tactically by Moyes, but alarmingly some schoolboy defending cost us this game. How RVP was allowed so much space and time I don't know. On times we were carved open with ease, some excellent showings today from Canas, Britton and Dyer I wish Bony, Hernandez & Ki had played the whole game as they looked threatening once they came on.
Lots of positives from the game, but very concerned about our defence today.
Onwards and upwards after a difficult opening fixture
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tsbains64 added 09:48 - Aug 18

QPR had the opportunities and the class to win this easily but the finsihing just wasnt there. In the end it took great last minute goal to seal the points-good to see one of the youngsters get an opportunity
Green played well despite the barrakcjing from the away fans. Nedum was a towering prescence and Dunne showed his expereince but why was Clint a left back?
Barton again showed his class -hope we keep him until Xmass anyway. We had the edge in this game and its 3 points in the bag but we need more creativity-quickly . Liked ONeils contribution and is a shrewd buy
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Phil_S added 15:22 - Aug 18

I do think that the 4-1 scoreline flattered Man Utd. At the end of it the stats show very little differences between the two sides (yeah I know bar the one that mattered) but they took their chances with clinical ease when it mattered whilst our chances were either saved or blocked.

We still have a tendency at times to pick the wrong option and even trying to score the perfect goal but there was more than enough in the game to suggest that there is another good season ahead.

Big positive for me was Bony who played excellently when he got onto the pitch and he took his goal like the striker we all want him to be. A few silly defensive mistakes didnt help but we will bounce back from this and there will be sides completely outclassed by Man Utd this season. Something that we weren't
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Dr_Winston added 17:03 - Aug 18

The final third of the pitch is where the difference told between the teams. At the end of the day we didn't defend well enough against one of the top forwards in World football.

Still, it's early days and there's enough positive signs to suggest that it'll be another decent season.
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Darran added 17:39 - Aug 18

It was slightly disappointing not to see Bony on the team sheet but hopefully we'll see a lot more of him,he took his goal very well too.

On yesterdays showing we will be beating the lesser sides out of sight and we should be looking to another good season.
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hjkqpr added 20:31 - Aug 18

QPR played fantastically. A few chances wasted, but all in all it was a good performance. Ipswich gave us a challenge with some great challenges and chances. It was up and down attack wise. Ipswich had a chance, then the ball got cleared up the fielde and QPR had the chance. Player ratings?
Robert Green - 9 - made some fantastic saves throughout the game and was very tactical aware.

Danny Simpson - 9 - Simpson put in a solid performance whipping in the crosses, playing in some fantastic balls and putting in some crunching tackles.

Richard Dunne - 10 - Absolutely brilliant performance in his first game at Loftus Road as a QPR player. Put in some life saving tackles, very strong and lead the back line. Had a few chances at goal too.

Nedum Onuoha - 8 - Onuoha was a bit quiet here and there. He put in some good tackles, played a few good passes and was decent in the back

Clint Hill - 8 - Good performance from our captain today. Good tackles, ran up the wings to attack a bit and had a few chances.

Joey Barton - 9 - Great performance from Barton today. Put in some great passes and very good, risky tackles too.

Shaun Wright Phillips - 8 - SWP had a decent performance. Great skill, great passing, great speed, but got a bit Adel Taarabtish near the end. Didnt pass much near the end and his confidence went a bit high trying to take on everyone.

Karl Henry - 8 - Good performance from Henry today. Was solid and lead the midfield and put a few balls into the attack today.

Junior Hoilett - 9 - Surprising performance from Hoilett today. Was the complete opposite player he was last year in the Premier League. Fabulous skill amd great runs off the ball and great crosses into the box leading to a few chances. Had a few great shots on goal too.

Bobby Zamora - 4 - Terrible performance again from Zamora. Forgot he was on the field at one stage in the game. We were really missing out on AJ today. Zamora didnt get stuck in, he didnt get the ball much. Dont even think he got a shot on goall. He made a few terrible passes too.

Charlie Austin - 8 - Decent by Austin today. Got loads of shots on goal but could'nt convert them.
0


Molliemick added 19:31 - Aug 19

We seemed to do okay for the first thirty minutes but once Man Utd had scored twice in two minutes, heads dropped and the result was a foregone conclusion. The end result was very disappointing as Man Utd hardly broke sweat and played in merely second gear. The match showed the huge gap between the top teams and the others.
I hope we can improve on what was in fact a hammering!
0


Phil_S added 22:15 - Aug 22

We eased off towards the end which - whilst understandable - was disappointing to watch but overall another totally professional performance that will see us through to the group stages and some lucrative displays. Disappointed with the crowd given its a European fixture but some good performances again on the pitch - would love to see Pozuelo start on Sunday, there is some real class about him
0


Paul_Soton added 17:27 - Aug 24

Watching through dodgystream.com, it definitely felt like a first game of the season at home. Crucially unlucky at the start for their goal. Most of the possession, most of the shots, at least 2 headers that went straight at their keeper.

It'll improve over a couple more games. We just need a little more concentration and maybe a little luck. That's 2 goals now that have been ruled out so it's the little details that could have meant another 2 goals so far.

0


dirk_doone added 02:24 - Aug 25

Saints were robbed of two points by a shocking decision by the officials to disallow a perfectly good Rodriguez goal for offside. If it had not been wrongly disallowed, Saints would have gone on to a comfortable victory.
0


MelakaRanger added 03:20 - Aug 25

Lucky this was on live here.

Above all else it was a win! We were sloppy many times and regularly gave the ball away unnecessarily to Bolton. A better team than Bolton would have punished us!

Not a particularly good advert for Championship football and how the heck did we earn 6 yellows? That was not a dirty or physical game.

But we persevered and in the past 2 seasons this is the type of game we would have clutched defeat from the jaws of victory.

This team is only going to get better. No one really bad nor really good today. Austin quite, AJ despite the goal not at his best. Green made a few great saves. It all points towards a team playing for one another and wanting to win.

None of us can complain at 3 wins and 1 draw from the 4 games. Happy days are here again!

Leeds next week will be the toughest test so far. A point from that game will be a good result.
1


winchesterbob added 11:53 - Aug 25

After giving away an, 'help yourself goal', it was always going to be a difficult game, with Sunderland content to hold on to a one goal lead. With Di Canio's men doubling up and closing down well, especially in the first half and my fiver on a 2 nil Saints win already added to the litter in block 34 after only 3 minutes.

The second half started with 2 changes for saints with Schneiderlin and Shaw off, (Schneiderlin less effective playing further forward and Shaw, more worryingly, perhaps suffering from a heavy knock in the first half) and replaced Clyne and the new 15 million-man Osvaldo. The football became much more open with the visitors perhaps having used all their energy in the first half, but even with the later introduction of Ramirez Saints were struggling to find the net. Indeed as the game trudged into the last 10 minutes I mused with the chap next to me about who would get the blame with no Gully or Fox on the pitch. We didn’t have to wait too much longer as the loud mouth three rows behind us started to berate J Rod… ironic really as personally I thought the only red shirt on the pitch who looked like he could score was J Rod.

Even more ironic, the saving goal came from a defender. Jose Fonte, who, perhaps many might have thought, myself included, was a player about to be replaced in the squad, but who seems to have rolled the clock back three seasons and has been back to top form in the opening two matches this season got us out of gaol.

Two lessons from this one, Saints need to defend set pieces better and need to score more from set pieces.
0


Phil_S added 18:27 - Aug 25

Disappointing afternoon we clearly arrived for a point and when we went a goal down we pushed on and looked the better side. Pozuelo deserves a start definitely and no no complaints over the result
0


joedelan added 19:00 - Aug 25

Very disappointing as there was a point to be had. Wonder why Bony sat 70 minutes?
0


Royboy48 added 19:38 - Aug 25

Poor atmosphere at the Reebok - where was everybody? No Dennis The Menace shirts - red and black does not clash with White?

Bolton were frankly as poor as Ipswich - and like v Ipswich, we weren't all that either

10 points from 12 and we are still in first gear..

Full marks to Rob Green faultless all day except one throw out - and to Clint Hill who clearly had ghost goal revenge on his mind all afternoon

Great bunch of Bolton fans round the Nat Lofthouse statue after the game

Why is it always so chilly at the Reebok?
0


crmedia added 22:14 - Aug 26

http://crmedia1992.blogspot.co.uk/
0


tsbains64 added 09:46 - Aug 28

An opportunity for the fringe players to show waht they can do and apart from Mo S-the others did not quite deliver.
Can put it down to the LC being a low priority but still we should beat teams from lower divisions. Highlights-Mo Sahrif and a few crosses from Suk Young -why exactly did we buy him . Austin was disapointing up front-how much did we pay for him>
Faulrin was a shadow of himself-this sort of game should have been right up his street
Away fans were a lugh though
Oh well put it down to experience or the lack of it
0


Harbour added 10:09 - Aug 28

first half we were dire... swindon worked hard to close us down and won the midfield battle and was not surprised when they scored as we did not seem able to get the ball out of our half...missed henry dunne and barton as diakete faurlin and jenas had no cutting edge..second half better we missed a hatful of chances and am getting concerned about austins finishing.......second goal was a farce...need a striker midfield and another back before window closes or we will struggle against better teams
1


probbo added 10:41 - Aug 28

Another season another Cup nightmare. I felt during the recent Ipswich game that we could do with raising the tempo a bit - our pace of play was quite sluggish at times. Hopefully this will serve as a wake up call.

I know its still early days (and obviously no complaints with the league position!) but the general lack of goals so far this season is also a bit of a concern.
0


Patrick added 11:48 - Aug 28

Think people are being a bit harsh on Faurlin who was trying to be a one-man midfield, outnumbered and overrun. Jenas as usual looking for a space where he will be unlikely to bump into an opposition player. Diakete, well what can you say, did he send his twin brother in his place (the one who can't play football). Out of position but embarassing. At least SWP could see what was happening and moved in to help. But one goal in 2 years for "Sooper" and at this rate another two years to wait - dreadful attempt when through. Neither Austin or Johnson added to their reputation, shots and headers all high wide and not so handsome. But no midfield at all, must have been introduced to each other before the game. Harry's post match regret very amusing. Leeds on Saturday obviously No1, 2 and 3 priority.
0


ronaldtheranger added 17:22 - Aug 28

There was a lack of invention and pace. The midfield was very poor. Not as much commitment as Swindon. The feed to the front two was virtually non-existant. Having said that, I thought we at least deserved to equalise in the last 15 minutes, which might then have allowed us to go on to win in XT.
0


Phil_S added 22:41 - Aug 29

Disappointing night on the European road again but was always going to be low key after the destruction at the Liberty last week. Some players were given the chance to shine but did little to add to their credentials moving forward. Needless bookings could cost us at some stage in the competition but overall it is job done so far and now for the group stages and the next 6 games.
1


Azzuriswan added 20:48 - Sep 1

just a short note that todays support was probably the most vocal since the first season in the premier league. More of the same please.
0


JOEQPRQPR added 20:52 - Sep 1

against leeds they were very good defensively but at times they overplayed it and it could have cost them a couple of times. It would have been much better if they played long ball with austin up front. There is still a lack of a major goal threat and at times you could see johnson and austin haven't completely jelled and there is a slight misunderstanding between the pair at times. But on the whole it was a very professional performance with them holding the ball very well at times.
0


jackofftomatch added 21:19 - Sep 1

A big improvement in how we played the game today, more positive game plan from laudrup but he must sort out our declining discipline...
0


marko added 22:17 - Sep 1

Thought it was a very average game, disagree with tim about Barton's contribution, thought most of his passes pinged wide before he got lucky with a bounce to set up their best player on the day, Hill's winner, the fact he was their best player says it all, QPR came for a draw and nicked the win. I thought we were very stand offish and dare I say in awe of their big names. Creativity was none existent until Diouf came on but we failed to attack his crosses. Noel Hunt, well I tortured my eardrums and listened to Radio Leeds again (West Yorks Sport to be politically correct to those saddos from Udders and Bratfud) and they saying be a matter of time and luck for him, I think he looks a poor signing and still on his honeymoon. Ps at least Yorkshire Radio focused on LUFC entirely how I miss Eddie and Thom in the car going home rather than failed football manager Andy Ritchie and Adam Pope whoever he is?
0


bilbobaggins added 23:39 - Sep 7

we showed some poor tackleing today which could of cost us the game we were lucky in the first half to only lose one player for rash tackling ,we need to learn the art of defence tackling and when not to dive in . on the whole we contained a poor bury side which showed in the result 1-0 we were lucky to get away with it . and hopefully hilly will sit in the stand and see what we see some day donnally should have gone off earlier and we might of got another goal as it was obvious he ran himself to a standstill
-2


tsbains64 added 19:18 - Sep 14

Gritty 1 nil game that was frustrating to watch as we played a team that we should be picking apart. Barton was his usual sparky self and looks tottally committed to the cause.
Good performances from Onhua and Dunn at the back and great to see Austin chalk up his first
Tom Carroll had too m many misplaced passes but lets give him a few games
Sadly Zamora looks past it-it was at time embrassing to watch and when he was substituted the flow of the team improved.
Second in the league can we ask for more............I think we should
0


Harbour added 10:30 - Sep 15

another ugly win we were solid at the back very. Brum shaded first half and should have scored as had at least 2 decent chances. SWP coming on made a difference and he had a good half. we can and will get better.
0


francisbowles added 11:37 - Sep 15

Midfield all over the place in the first half, Barton kept getting caught in possession, O'Neil kept going into the middle to help out leaving no one on the right. I thought Zamora did ok. Only a couple of mistakes.

We were lucky not to concede at least twice.

2nd half better. It seemed to be a 4-1-4-1 with Barton protecting the back four and he had a very good 45 minutes.

We still found it difficult as the opposition were really up for it and closed us down quickly all over the pitch.

A hard fought and welcome three points, but 'boy, did we ride out luck'.
0


bloberts added 11:55 - Sep 15

Another poor performance against a poor team.
No creativity and Barton was just awful, O'Neil seemed to be our only good player.
Hoillet must have hamstrings pulled together by elastic bands.
Very worrying for the season ahead
0


MickB added 13:34 - Sep 15

The defence played well but we still could easily have shipped a few. Was Barton supposed to be a holding midfielder? If so, Lord help us, govern the number of times he lost possession. I don't see Zamora doing much wrong, mainly because I don't see him doing much at all.
So have we now got Wright Phillips and Left Phillips or Wright Phillips and Wrong Phillips? If the latter, I put my money on the wrong'un.


0


Royboy48 added 15:01 - Sep 15

1-0
1-0
1-0
1-0

Metronomic progress, football for narcoleptics

We are riding our luck; we cannot continue to play like this and expect to get results - woefully short of creative strike power; all these 1-0s have been scored pretty much on the goalline

Back five looking solid as they generally cover each other's errors - and Ned looks a mighty player this season.

Injuries to Hoillett - again - and Johnson - again - rapidly dilute the quality quotient. Does Harry pick Zamora in the hope it will scare defences?

Pleased Austin got on the scoresheet - we bought him for these opportunistic goalscoring instincts

All the new boys - and there's loads of them - will take time to blend in. We criticised Mark Hughes for precisely this team turbulence last season - lets hope we can keep results rolling.(Sticks in my craw that Stoke are getting traction this season)

Finally Barton... well, whatever you may have thought about his behaviour two seasons back, there's no denying he is the class of the team - and probably the division at this point

Tick, tock, tick, tock - can we engage third gear v Brighton on Wednesday?
0


stevec added 18:16 - Sep 15

With so many sides playing 5 across the middle think we may just have to get used to grinding out results.

Quite liked the bravery of us going 442 for most of the season but suspect there is going to be some attempt to build the side around Carroll, a change of formation, and on yesterday's showing I am not convinced he's the prospect we've been told.
0


rellimjim added 12:12 - Sep 16

Clearly Poch will need more time to get the new players to the best system. West Ham came with only one intentent to stop a side that they were worried about.
0


francisbowles added 23:30 - Sep 18

Much better performance, just missing support for Austin. If Austin is playing as a lone striker, imho he should not go any wider than the penalty area. Too many times he was missing from the middle because he went wide and there was a lack of support from midfield. Hopefully, we will see a great improvement when Kranjar is ready,

Brighton quite a good side but never troubled Green.

On to Yeovil and let's hope Onuoha is back soon as I don't think we have an real alternative to Hill and Dunne.
0


WokingR added 08:31 - Sep 19

Think we are going to have to get used to teams coming to Loftus Road looking for nothing more than a point and keeping all 11 men behind the ball.
Doesn't make for an interesting game but it is up to us to break them down and if we can't then that is our problem.
0


Harbour added 08:58 - Sep 19

better performance than saturday was behind the goal at school end at Austin missed a sitter ...akkoto looks good. once again Dunne Hill O'Neil awsome but going forward cutting edge missing still another point but feel we need to improve to see off likes of Leicester Forest etc
0


headhoops added 09:11 - Sep 19

They came for a draw and got it - we will need to get used to teams coming to hit us on the break and sticking 10 behind the ball. With just one player up top we should replace the defensive holding midfielder (Henry) with Krankie when fit or a second striker to sit alongside Charlie.

Can't help thinking that if we had Hoilett last night some of the balls over the top that found Phillips/SWP he would have got a half decent shot away.

Back four and Dunne were once again very solid.
0


QPunkR added 11:06 - Sep 19

Awful, turgid game.
Austin needs one other player within 20 yards of him otherwise he has absolutely no-one else to pop the ball off to, and becomes ineffective.

Someone remind me, what's the point of Jenas??
0


BeauRanger added 12:59 - Sep 19

The longer it went the happier Brighton were to settle for a draw. Interesting to see them playing out from the back so much, which seems a bit risky but with only Austin up front they got away with it...most of the time.
Although Barton's delivery is better than previous seasons still a bit inconsistent to me.

JJ is the invisible man...
0


Royboy48 added 13:45 - Sep 19



1. Selection

Spot on at kick-off given injuries etc.

2. Formation - conditioned by injuries

I'm never happy with 1 up front at home

With 5 across the middle why didn't we get in more crosses with their twitchy defence ? - the few deliveries from the bye line always resulted in corners or possibilities

3. Substitutions

BEA's debut was, in the context of the game, outstanding; looks fit, slotted in seamlessly, good going forward and confident. Nice one Harry

If you asked 100 QPR fans to name 100 QPR midfielders, Jermaine Jenas would be Pointless.. Faurlin would have delivered more

Traore the right sub for the tiring, not-yet-fit Phillips - who, BTW, looks the business..

B&HA

Wrong to say they were typical Championship side looking for a point, they have an appealing passing game. Defence jittery in the first half, couple of unforced errors could have cost them. They only hit the keep-the point-button in the last 20 minutes; great travelling support

Overall

After 70 minutes I felt we ran out of ideas and they wanted the point.

Lack quality without AJ, Hoilett, Johnson injured

Another clean sheet so Green & Co (Defenders) Ltd are happy

The most underwhelming top-of-the-table moment I can recall in decades of hooped fan-dom - except that it primes us with anticipation





0


felixstowe_jack added 08:18 - Sep 20

Good display in Valencia. As we played a lot of the reserves in Valencia, Britton, Williams, Davies, Shelvey and Routledge all well rested so should be fresh for Palace. Great game we could even sunbathe while we watched the match as the ground was uncovered at we were at the top! Nice to be cheered and clapped by the home supporters who were all waving white flags and hankys as there own players. Not sure what happend to all the Valencia fanatics behind the goal. They completely cleared their seats at half time and only came back when we scored our second. Funny time to take a fiesta.

A new chant from the Swans' as their player was sent off adios adios adios.
1


tsbains64 added 11:39 - Sep 20

Improved performance from the Brum game. Just needed a bit of luck infront of goal. Austin does a lot of work and looks like things will fall into place for him
Felt we needed some more creativity-not sure where that will come from Defense were solid-Harry has bought well At last Phillips looks to be alive
This was two point lost-Brighton were not very good and are a shadow form the Poyet team
Appreciate the warm appreciation of the Under 18s from the away fans-Well Done
Oh yes Barton was greta -he lost a few passess but great to see him fight to get the ball back-was close to a sedning off

What a great atmosphere for a mid week game and we are top of the table!!
0


Support added 17:02 - Sep 21

I had this down as a home win, I must confess! Well done, and up to fifth as it stands.
0


ardashuxford added 14:09 - Sep 22

Liverpool 0 Southampton 1

The televised Saturday 3pm kickoff match throughout Africa and the other not so important non UK countries in the world was Liverpool, and because support throughout the world is still based on the 2005 “big four” the bars and restaurants were packed yesterday with fans ready to witness the re-emergence of a sleeping giant, this was the day Liverpool would establish themselves as true Championship contenders. However, what they had not taken into consideration was that this Ugandan correspondent was wearing a Southampton shirt shrouded in magic, stored for 13 years, signed by the mercurial magician himself, Matt Le Tissier, and worn proudly for the very first time. Liverpool were powerless against such a force.
Of course there will be the Scouse whingers, “we should have had a penalty”, “Moses didn’t fall over every time he got the ball, he was fouled”, and the ever popular “if we had Saurez, he would have bitten them”, but the truth hurts, Southampton are class and Liverpool aren’t. Liverpool fans should be grateful that they now have a goalkeeper who can keep the defeats to a respectful margin.
As for Southampton, the defensive frailties that dogged them last season have dissipated with the arrival of Lovren, the competent Boruc in goal has resigned the calamitous Davis to the bench, the exciting England U21 full back pairing of Clyne and Shaw, and the surprising emergence of Fonte, cool under pressure and a master at positional play. In front of them are the steel barrier that are Schneiderlin and Wanyama, those that sniffed at the latter’s price tag are now asking why their club didn’t invest in Kenya’s star player. Midfield is completed by the skilful Lallana and the penetrating running of Rodriguez, while up front the pairing of England’s Lambert with Italy’s Osvaldo is still in its infancy, but the potential is there for all to see. The Manager, Pochettino has added another dimension to the team Adkins designed by the astute purchases of the missing pieces, a top class centreback and a midfield enforcer, Cork had the passing ability but not the muscle of Wanyama. But where Pochettino really scores over Adkins is his ability to read the danger signs and make substitutions to counteract the threat. A talent that was wasted against a Liverpool team that couldn’t create a danger sign, let alone a goal.
0


Phil_S added 15:29 - Sep 22

There seemed little doubt that we would win this after the great start and Michu's goal. We were in control from this point forward and a thoroughly deserved three points and the end of a fantastic week on the pitch. 7 points from 9 now in the league and back in the top half of the table. Roll on Wednesday and Birmingham
0


SonofNorfolt added 01:21 - Sep 23

Bloody hell we were poor.

However, Green is looking now like the confident keeper he once was, Dunne is a monster, perfect for this division, and credit to Austin who has kept battling, and was spot on with the penalty.
0


WokingR added 08:17 - Sep 23


0


dermyqpr added 12:31 - Sep 23

Affectionately know as "The Honey Monster" from his time at citeh.
0


winchesterbob added 07:10 - Sep 25

Scrappy encounter and hardly worth my £18 with far too many passes going astray. 2 nil was almost an injustice to Bristol who pressed us back particularly in the second half.

Gully missed a sitter when the ball got stuck under his new bright yellow boots in the six yard box. It must have been the boots as Gaston seemed to be struggling with his similar foot ware apart from his sublime opening goal. If this was a runout to to help their case for inclusion in Saturdays line up the pair of them should either burn the boots or book a holiday.

Highlights were Kelvin Davis and the back four with some special praise for Fox who had a blinder at left back, (not often Dan catches my eye). Man of the match for me though was JWP who challenged for everything and touched every blade of grass


0


Phil_S added 22:31 - Sep 25

Disappointing night but with ten changes especially a complete defence it was almost predictable. As much as I enjoyed our run and victory last season this was always likely to be our lowest priority this season given the League, Europe and the FA Cup. Was a little surprised I guess at the extend of the changes but we move on. We don't become a bad team overnight
0


Azzuriswan added 08:20 - Sep 26

Very disappointed by the performance overall. The players seemed to treat the game as a training exercise and to be honest not many of the players put on a show to impress the manager let alone the fans.
0


Morfa_Same added 11:26 - Sep 26

A very complacent performance with no real urgency or effort. First half we could have been 4-0 up without really getting out of first gear. The second half we fell apart as Birmingham upped the tempo and pressed us all over the pitch. The performance became littered with mistakes and they almost always dispossessed us before we reached the halfway line. An embarrassing result really and one which is best forgotten as quickly as possible.
0


crawfleeds05 added 17:12 - Sep 26

Newcastle game gives us a true reflection on the squad at the moment.

Outplayed by a premiership team who have spent far more than us in recent time hence their premiership status. But it did give us Leeds fans a chance to see who can make the step up.

Austin who has been fantastic for us this season looked inert of the early season form again a far superior midfield. His passing is clearly in consistent. Almost cost us a goal but one positive from the midfield was are youth product Mowatt. A shinning light in the Leeds midfield who looked heard and shoulders in the middle of the park. If Luke Murphy can find some form which saw him score at Brighton we could really have a good championship midfield in Mowatt Austin and Murphy, with Green and Tonge as back up.

Upfront is clearly a weakness and this showed last night. Smith and Poleon looked lost out there. A strong Newcastle defence dealt easily with are front two with only McCormack looking like he could break their barrier.

We are evidently a work in progress but there are certainly signs that with a few more quality signings we could see us challenging with best in the Championship because the Premiership certainly needs a Leeds United with their travelling army again a shinning light in the club. One league we no doubt will be top off at the end of the season is the away following, a feat McDermott certainly appreciates.

Onwards and upwards for Leeds and the future looks bright. MOT.
0


tsbains64 added 12:02 - Sep 29

Atlast a performance to be proud of .At time the passing and possesion was scintalating-we should have won by 4 or 5 goal
Nico is a class act and I can see why Harry has brought him over-he purrred like a classic car-he is a great addition
The whole team performed a notch above the Brighton game
Barton shone and his commitment was 100% Carroll struggled but it was good to see Harry leave him on th epitch to gain confidence
Green has been a revelation from last year and he was ably helped by the frugal defence. The introduction of Max Ehmer was refreshing to see-good to see a youth product being given a chance
Atlast the rest of the league can see why we a re top of the league
0


francisbowles added 16:35 - Sep 29

Although it was a much improved performance let's not get carried away. We really should have put the game to bed. Towards the end I was getting a little uneasy as a few Middlesborough efforts went close to our goal. Had they scored the game might well have imploded on us.

The passing was great at times but we went a bit 'Arsenal/Swansea' and overcooked it. Passing for passing's sake doesn't have an end product!

However, I am very pleased with another 3 points, clean sheet and a promising performance. The squad is beginning to show it's quality and it was good to see Faurlin and Caroll get much better in the 2nd half after shaky first 45 minutes. It was better but we still need to get more support in attack for Austin.
0


Royboy48 added 21:12 - Sep 29

Good stuff

Not sure 1 up front will work when we finally get to play top half teams - but we certainly went up a gear against a rather unimpressive Boro

But there are clearly.more gears to engage

We have to be patient with Austin, Faurlin, Kranscar, Carroll, Philips....

Nice to walk back to the car with that feelgood factor
0


loftuspat added 21:29 - Sep 29

It was a very enjoyable afternoon. Boro never looked liked they would trouble our back four or Green. While we may need more cover the back four that started looks like it could be very strong. Cannot remember being as confident about our full backs since the 90's. Barton and Nico looked a class above anyone in boro shirt. Carroll did well despite giving ball away a few times early on. As for our forwards it was good to see junior get on for 10 minutes and hope we can have. His pace in the side more often. Glad to have Austin on the books but wish his first touch was better. He would score lots of goals if he could control the ball better first time. Maybe extra training with Nico and Joey Is needed for Charlie
0


ronaldtheranger added 15:37 - Oct 1

At last the enjoyment of being at Loftus Road and seeing a more confident display and a couple of deserved goals. The second certainly helped us play to our best.

However, against hte top sides, I think we will have to do better. There was plenty of possession in the middle of the park, but not enough incisive break throughs on goal.

Some would say that better promotion prospects would have scored 4 or 5..., so why didn't we - against a very poor Boro side.
0


tsbains64 added 09:29 - Oct 6

After the prevoius weeks highs-we came down to earth with a gentle bump. Yes we won got the points and scored some goals but it was not done the way I was hoping it would be achieved
Some one said we have a team of midfeilders-it some it up
A boring first half with a smattering of chances-second half cahnged with Juniors introduction but still felt a bit dissapointed with the show
Barnsley werenot too bad but dont have a cutting edge up front-it will be interesting to see what we do when we meet a team that does have a sharp striker
I reassured myself that the most improtant thing is to win ,score goals and saty top of the league
Well doen Greeno for your record-Defence were great but not really tested. Comeptent midfeild with no one showing any creativity and Austin was valiant up front
0


francisbowles added 09:59 - Oct 6

A tight game of few chances. Barnsley defended very well and played a very high line which restricted the space in midfield. Nevertheless, our midfield passed the ball around very well and Carol and Faurlin were excellent. The best Ali has played since his injury. Butland made three excellent first half saves which otherwise may have opened the game up for us.

The fullbacks didn't get forward as much as in the previous match and we lacked any real pace to get in behind their back four. Hoilett was the obvious tactical change and it had the desired result. Think this is the sensible thing to do with Hoilett for at least the next three away matches as we will need to be solid, maintain possession, he is
fragile and we don't have any other fit wingers. Coming on and making an impact will help his confidence as well.

Good to see Charlie scoring a proper goal and the defence record as well!
-1


Bulgarian added 17:05 - Oct 6

So important in terms of our process of going places and maturing as a team: keeping tight, trying to hold concentration and ruthlessly exploit our chances. Today it worked, a big thanks to Boruc and the defensive department. We still lack the extra creativity up front though.
0


Royboy48 added 18:43 - Oct 6

Well it's another 3 points but I still have this nagging doubt that we are not yet singing at concert pitch

Plus points? Carroll greatly improved, Austin hard working and effective - really warming to him; right to be patient

Negatives? BAE and Hoillett looked too casual for me, Kranscar average compared to last week, central defence - whisper it - looked occasionally shaky. But that's being really picky

3 straight away games to come will be the acid test - inc. the league leaders in the frozen North

Would play Henry and Faurlin in the defensive midfield roles keeping Hoilett and Carroll as impact pacey subs when O Neill runs out of puff

No game at W12 for a month - when we entertain McLaren's undoubtedly rejuvenated Derby followed by another tricky away day at Reading

Wouldn't tamper with anything else - need to pick up 5 pts from these 3 games

Am I right in thinking that 40 years ago Burnley and QPR finished 1st and second in this division? 2 years after that promotion we missed out on the big title by a whisker.

Repeat prescription please..
1


johnpaulqpr added 00:33 - Oct 8

Yes you are right about qpr and Burnley, I saw the home game which we won 2-nil, I am sure Dave Thomas scored that day against his old club.
0


pnc4eva1 added 18:52 - Oct 12

stunning, superb, footballed the opposition to death
0


Harbour added 09:45 - Oct 20

first visit the new den for me. getting in no problems other than train delays at London bridge... staggering number of coppers in the walkway leading to the ground. we were the better side throughout and when nico hit the post first half very unlucky. but 2 poor defensive errors cost us dearly and the last 10 minutes we seemed to switch off and for that wall got a point..nico, austin excellent ..glad HR is still trying to get the team to play patient passing football just need a bit more fluidity and movement overall a good point ...which could have been 3 .... getting out held back 20 minutes could not get on the train and coppers made us get on train going opposite direction got off next stop then at South Bermondsey a load of Wall fans got on thankfully 3 next to me were friendly chatty sort !
0


LostBoys added 19:38 - Oct 20

I thought we played well and should have won. A view shared by some of the more intelligent Man U supporters in the bar after the game. Some of their players performances were very poor led by Carrick and Nani Evra and the funny little brazilian bloke who has a brother as a worse player. The quality up the front for them shone through with Van Persie and Janusaj and particularly Rooney who put a real shift in. Loads of highlights but I loved Spidermans tackle on Bambi Welbeck. Beware Man U have got their eyes on a number of our players accoprding to their fanzines. Great weekend away
0


LostBoys added 19:46 - Oct 20

Sorry I forgot - what rubbish fans Man U has - totally spoiled on success and poor support for their team who were being played off the park at times.
0


thairanger added 20:51 - Oct 20

The police completely useless and if could of ended in tears I left at half time there was more fans then seats and no beer at half time.First and last to the den
0


GloryHunter added 23:47 - Oct 20

Agree incredible number of coppers, including police spotters at the bottom of each walkway. As if WE were going to be the problem . . .
0


geraldo added 13:10 - Oct 23

Overall a poor performance but a great last few minutes and another 3 points.
Dicker is no where near good enough and Dale only showed anything at all when Tutte came on. Although he got the winner ( goalie should have saved it) Donnelly is no answer up front but then neither is Cummins - hopefully Hogan will be back soon....
0


SuddenLad added 15:07 - Oct 23

No idea which game Geraldo was watching, but he wasn't at Spotland.

A well deserved win for a table-topping team who deserve to be where they are by sticking to their 'footballing ethos', working as a team, rising above the time-wasting tactics of the Cobblers and scoring more than their opponents.

Maybe not the best performance from a Dale side this season, but good enough against a disciplined, hard working Northampton team who gave a good account of themselves. Sadly for them, they weren't good enough and Dale were the rightful winners.

3 hard-earned points, a banana skin safely negotiated and despite a moaning tvvat in the stand, Dale are top of the pile. Long may it continue.
1


geraldo added 15:43 - Oct 23

Sudden lad misses the point it was 3 hard earned points but a performance that was well short of what they can do.Read what KH thinks about the game in the MEN - he thinks we got out of jail too!!
0


442Dale added 20:09 - Oct 23

So is Dicker really "no where near good enough" or did he just have an off night?
0


geraldo added 12:17 - Oct 24

Dicker is at best pedestrian and at worst ( as on Tues) a liability - his passing was woeful. I saw his debut at Accrington and he has not improved.
0


SaxonDale added 13:46 - Oct 24

Are you ginger by any chance Geraldo?
0


442Dale added 20:47 - Oct 24

Pretty much everyone has seen the difference Dicker has made since he came into the side, with him playing well we dictate games. Did he not play well against Wycombe and Newport?
Surely he's doing something right if we've won 6 out of his 7 games?
0


nordenblue added 21:36 - Oct 24

The minute i read "Dicker is nowhere near good enough" the post lost all credibility,is this the same player who's performed consistently well 2 leagues above our current position,but suddenly is no good for league 2!! Peoples views sometimes genuinely are senseless.
0


Bulgarian added 21:28 - Oct 26

Brilliant win in more ways than one. It's the whole team playing its game for the whole 90 minutes. You can only expect a bit more ruthlessness, as well as trying to avoid the question "how long can in last this way". It's just great to be a Saints fan these days, thanks to everyone: NC, MoPo and staff, the players and supporters.
0


LesVivian added 08:51 - Oct 27

Who needs Osvaldo? He's done nothing, and now he's 'injured'! Lambert and Rodriguez did the business up front, MS was brilliant, Wanyama showed us that he CAN pass! Outstanding: JWP - surely could go to Brazil? Fulham gave up at 2 - 0, although they shut-up shop effectively second half! Both full-backs played like wingers and left the defending to L and F. Lallana excellent! Great display! (Boruc will be needing some practice during training, or he will forget how to be a keeper!)
0


Bigears added 14:06 - Oct 27

Burnely got there tactics right from start to finish, and controlled this game from the start. QPR started the game with the same possession football that had seen us go 11 games undefeated. Burnley tactics were to hold a high line, the forwards and midfield close us down and pushed u back, not giving us time on the ball to move forward. This resulted in us doing too many sloppy passes, giving the ball away too cheaply and in danger areas. This lead to two good chances in the 1st half both which Burnley missed mean while Henry missed our best chance and infact apart from the pen, was the easiest of the game. Austin was isolated and ineffective has he had two players on him all the time, and by the time management changed it the game was gone. Poor performance from the team and Management as hardley any choices we made that day were right. Onwards and upwards.
0


Phil_S added 19:09 - Oct 27

The safe backwards pass is in evidence too often. This has almost become our first instinct instead of looking to see if anyone is making the run into space. Two decent chances all game could have seen us win but in truth the draw was a fair result given the overall balance of play.

our form isn't as good as it could be but we are ticking along and getting results and the return of Ash and Pablo are big pluses from the game for me.

Onwards towards next week
-1


Royboy48 added 21:21 - Oct 27

All of bigears plus two other failings

2nd to the ball every time
Way too narrow in the second half until the too-late substitutions Never stretched them on the flanks

Just wondering if the McLaren factor is missing. Barnsley - regressed, Millwall - late lapse, Burnley - way too casual way too sloppy

Were the first 8 games a mirage as we suspected?

Wigan will be telling
0


AussieRs added 22:59 - Oct 27

Probably just grumpy because of 1am kick off downunder but I thought this performance was abject. Credit to Burnley for high pressing game. But our passing was abysmal, slow and inaccurate. Not sure I have seen a professional game where one team passed the ball directly out for an opposition thrown in so often - our passes were not even close to the mark. First real test of season - fail. Hoilett only bright spark. Kranjcar invisible, Barton on edge of red from early on, Austin alone. Got to be better than this for promotion.

0


pedrodale added 19:56 - Oct 31

only one person from Dale saw this game as confirmed by the ratings
0


tsbains64 added 20:04 - Nov 2

Great to have football back at Loftus Road-it seems ages since we were last here and last won. Good solid performance,despite the score we had the edge and class over the Derby boys.
At last Phillips showed why Harry had invested in him and he looks like a great buy. Jenas was a match winner-about time too-he could easily have had a hatrick
Barton was back to his resilient self-boy did we miss him at Wigan-he is a class act
I feel that despite the tags of favourites to go back up and the position in the league there is a lack of confidence-the last 15 minutes we should have nailed the thrid goal but our timewasting allowed Derby back into the game and aalsmost steal an equaliser.
Fanstastic crowd support and the away fans contributed too.
Anenjoyable and competitive game
0


tsbains64 added 20:06 - Nov 2

Just want to add that it was sad to see Ale being taken off-fear that the injury is pretty serious
And a great perfromance from Charlie Austin-he puts a lot of work in for the team and should be appreciated
0


francisbowles added 09:27 - Nov 3

A much improved performance and deserved win. Jenas was superb, didn't see that coming! The attacking midfield players offered a lot more support to Austin and we created a great deal by using the width. Hill solid and dependable, Barton solid and showed great vision with his passing. So dissappointed for Ale just as he was showing some real form.
0


Harbour added 16:04 - Nov 3

very pleased to see us move the ball much quicker and this produced a much improved performance against a good derby side. could easily have got a third...but glad last minute equaliser was avoided as at millwall.got to watch giving away free kicks in dangerous areas.. thought ref had a bad game some awful decisions one foul on barton could have been a red but the ref gave the derby player nothing.. excellent atmosphere and lr crowd really got behind the rss second half... shame about ali really hope its not as bad as feared... he had a good game up to then and beautifull delivered free kick for the second.. well pleased with phillips his best performance to date and unlucky to hit the bar after excellent work. great afternoon
0


francisbowles added 18:33 - Nov 9

A very bright attacking start with Hoilett and Phillips going both inside and outside the fullbacks and only a mixture of missed chances, good goalkeeping and bad luck prevented us from taking an early lead. After about 25 minutes of total domination we allowed Reading to muscle their way back into the game and they created a few chances. We rallied in the final minutes of the first half but once again were denied taking a lead.
Having been forced into two substitutions by half time, we were limited in options for the second half. I thought we continued to look the better and more dangerous team but Reading were physically very strong. After about an hour Reading scored out of nothing. McCleary found a bit of room having wrong footed Barton and let fly with a great long range strike, which was perfectly placed to beat a diving Green and go in off the post.

We then started to chase the game and within a few minutes Harry took the gamble of replacing O'Neil with AJ for our final substitution.
AJ looked very lively and, despite being booed by the Reading rabble on every touch, he gave us a lot of movement against a tiring defence. Of course the injury curse struck again and yet another hamstring problem for Hoilett left him a virtual passenger for the rest of the game.

With about 10 minutes left Austin was fouled by Gorkss in the 'D' and Barton curled the resulting free kick through a wall being disrupted by Kranjcar and EA and it was too strong for the hand of the diving McCarthy.

So in the end a point was rescued and, with Burnley being held and Leicester losing at home, it was a good day for the Rrrr's.

If we can get a better final ball and improved finishing then someone could get a hiding.
1


winchesterbob added 10:11 - Nov 10

Hull were not the pushover that the score suggests. Saints worked hard and played some exceptional football at times for this result.

All the pre-match talk of manager of the month hoodoos was dispelled as a load of bullocks. Hard graft and wonderful football from the whole team but especially Clyne, Ward-Prowse, J Rod, Lambert and the outstanding Lallana won the day and Hull had no answer.

The only sour note was the, help-yourself, goal given away by Wanyama in a momentary lapse of concentration, but Boruc perhaps should not have put him in that position in the first place.
0


Bigears added 14:00 - Nov 10

Reading from the first minute showed there plan, which was to press us at the back and shut down our passing game. However unlike Burnley we had a plan B, quick balls, over the top and attack them with pace, this forced them back, we had lots of possession in there half, and resulted us in dominating the first 25 minutes were to be honest we should have been 2 or 3 up. Reading then had their best spell of the game for 10 min, then we took control again.

The second half was more 50 /50 with us edging it, but with injuries to Jenus and more importantly Dunne open the space up for there goal, good strike from 25 yards but unlike Hoilet effort which hit the bar and came out, theirs creeped in of the right hand post. Som people are quick to point out that Green feet are not the best and feel he should have saved it, but if you look at it agan it was a strong shot, that bounced just before him and IMO not to blame. The injuries, lack of cover for the space the player drifted into and more importantly the linesman who gave the wrong throw in were.
We never let our heads drop, we kept pluggin away and reward soon arrived after Austin invited the challenge on the edge of the area and then toe poke the ball away for the foul. Up stepped Barton who curled the ball around / through the wall into the corner, no more than we deserved. In fact IMO AJ should have won this game that we deserved to win. The players, management and coaches all got this game right, and the only injustice was Reading getting appoint.

Good performance
1


codge added 17:42 - Nov 23

This mistake by Artur has been coming for a while, he has won us a few but this was one that changed the game for us.
0


codge added 17:49 - Nov 23

Artur has a habit of being too cool sometimes, but this was a dumb mistake that changed the course of this game.No doubt he has won us some but this was one of the most uncalled for error's I manageable.
0


ginger2202 added 17:55 - Nov 23

Cracking and well deserved win surprised at the team selection and subs used but played well well in possession and territory still need to be better in the final 3 rd atleast chico didnt fall over today lol
0


tsbains64 added 19:59 - Nov 23

We should be beating these sort of team 3 or 4 nil . But happy that we have won. Austins goal was stunning and well desreved-he puts in a lot of work,especially off the ball. Barton was his self and the defense was strong but simpson had a few nervous minutes. I know we need to keep possesion but sometimes we dont taqke advantage of situations in which to attack and create opportunities. Great to have a good win at last
0


MelakaRanger added 23:31 - Nov 23

I agree. We should be winning these games by 2 or 3 easily. I thought we were solid from the back but as usual, come their 18 yd box we really didn't threaten too much. The problem of playing with just one striker??

Thought Henry was pretty good once he came on. In fact cant think of a weak performance from anyone .

Seems the season will continue to be games of very few goals scored by us and even less against us. Hardly 'electric' but actually quite effective.
0


Juzzie added 11:27 - Nov 24

it's a results business these days we're told and it seems getting the result is paramount. Well, of course it is but a 1 goal advantage is too nevy. Look at the Millwall game, thier 93rd minute goal wouldn't have mattered had we been 3-1 up. Same at Reading and they got a 95th minute corner which could have punished us.

1 goal leads are too risky. especially as we have the ability to get the 2nd. It's not as though we're clinging onto a 1-0 lead at Chelsea.

We seemed to have more chances in injury time than in the whole of the 2nd half. Johnson made a difference. When Austin is outside the penalty area by the byline working hard, at least we had someone in the box to collect. When Austin is the lone striker, there just doesn't seem to be any support into the penalty area.

That all said, if we get promoted no one will care but it makes for a nervous season.
0


francisbowles added 16:23 - Nov 24

It seems it's all about shape and staying in position. Harry getting boring and unadventurous in his old age! We were, though, unlucky not to add a second. Another good goalkeeper and a post keeping us out.

Another solid performance from Clint Hill. I don't think he made a single error. Best goal so far from Austin, should further improve his confidence. All the subs did very well when they came on.

We now need to take advantage of the next three fixtures before the four against top opponents, of which three are away, which complete the year.
0


probbo added 15:21 - Dec 1

Losing to a team from up North who occupy a lowly position in the League has been a hallmark of successive QPR teams for as long as I can remember. The whole thing had a nasty inevitability about it.

I'm not complaining with our position in the League and hopefully by this time next week we'll be 6 points better off but clearly we are not a stand out side and perhaps there is still a hangover from last season. Its a purely hypothetical point but with this team, the current management and the style of play, I wonder where we would be were we still in the Premier League.

It will be interesting to see if Redknapp dives in to the transfer market in January. If he does, i'll seriously be wondering if he's lost his ability to manage. After all, he had 10 weeks in summer to flush out the deadwood, build 'his' squad and get them to gel and play as a team. He succeeded to a degree with the former but the jury's out on the latter. The lack of goals remains my biggest concern.
0


LostBoys added 19:29 - Dec 1

very disappointing low key performance by everyone
0


tsbains64 added 13:47 - Dec 5

At last a performance that has been promised for a while. Impressive Austin and Phillips delivered. Barton was his usual powerhouse-winning balls and delivering deilicate passes. Hoilett took a awhile to get going and great to see he still has an eye for goal
Strong defence
Shame the ref did not show up-should have been 2 reds against the Cherries
Impressed with their fans-to travel for amidweek game and still applaud their team-got to take my hats off to them
Lets see if we can guild on this game against Rovers
0


tsbains64 added 21:23 - Dec 7

Frustrated with the draw but thnk we got what we deserved
Should have scored through Phillips but the keeper made a fantastic save. Great industry from Barton and ONeil when he came on and was even impressed with Carroll.
In the past we have nicked 1 nil in these sort of games but it was not meant to be this time around
Defense was solid -Hill and Dunne were like rocks.
Will be interesting how we raise our game in the next few games against teams near the top of the table
0


francisbowles added 21:26 - Dec 7

A good performance but Blackburn were very 'disciplined' and proved too hard to break down. Strange time to take the wingers off as I thought they were beginning to get into the game. However, the changes had a good effect as both Kranjcar and O'Neil did well in the narrower midfield. Then the introduction of Traore was far too late for him to have a few runs down the outside of their right back. Thought Barton and Carroll had very good games.
0


Harbour added 21:29 - Dec 10

Blackburn worked hard for the draw and could have nicked it.. we had 2 good chances Phillips and Austin and on another day they would have gone in... a draw a fair result
0


codge added 17:31 - Dec 14

Was a little concerned with our starting lineup, thought Fonte and Adam should of been in at the start.Osvaldo and Lambert did not work on at the same time, but the switch at the start of the second half made a big difference. Another error cost us big but things like that happen, in the end a fair result in my opinion....
0


geraldo added 15:56 - Dec 15

We are going to have to stop playing a lone striker and why did Hill bring Cavanagh on when we needed to go all out for a goal!!
0


tsbains64 added 18:35 - Dec 21

there were moment of sublime skill but we just were not ruthless enough infront of goal. Overall a solid performance but just missing the finsihing touch upfront. The Foxes had 2 shot s and were clinical with one of them. Even then we had chances to get soemthing out of this entertaining game
The Barton incident- he shoudl have known better and walked away-but perhaps he wanted Xmas off
Dissapointed for sure but I liked some of the attacking football and I think this setback should make us stronger-the games against Forest and Watford will be a real test
The Ref-was out of his depth-surely they could get soemone better for a top of the table clash
Great turn out from the fans but we were too quiet in the second half
0


LostBoys added 21:35 - Dec 22

Very poor generally and its no wonder Lovren was going berserk at the inept displays by Gazzaniga Fox and Hooiveldt
0


hoopstilidie added 23:29 - Dec 26

For what it's worth QPR came away with just about what they deserved. That second goal of Forest's was a joke though, lino called the offside early enough, then confirmed to the ref that it was offside only for him to again over-rule him. Poor that.
Starting with both Zamora and Henry was a massive error for me. Zamora is shot, he constantly bottled every 50/50, his decision making was horrendous and he couldn't lay a pass off to save his life. I'm not one for a boo boy but I genuinely don't want to see him in a Ranger's shirt ever again.
Much better performance 2nd half when Henry and Zamora were replaced by AJ and Junior, actually carried some attacking threat then. But boy we need someone to put their foot through the ball and have a pop at goal.
Could have got ourselves back in it second half given the rub of the green maybe but that second goal pretty much killed it off as a contest.
Forest are a decent hard-working side.
Hurry back Austin, was sorely missed.
1


francisbowles added 11:06 - Dec 27

Schoolboy stuff! The Linesman is the referee's assistant. Therefore he doesn't make the decisions, the referee does! Hence play to the whistle. Assou-Ekotu should be left out immediately as he is lazy at the best of times, culpable for both goals and is clearly going through the motions ahead of a return to Spurs.
0


winchesterbob added 09:33 - Jan 2

Chelsea, were the best visiting side I have seen at SMS this term so far. The blues got everything spot on, especially substitutions and tactics, but it helps when you have world-class players warming the bench and itching to prove a point.

Saints were simply toothless up front, JRod and Gaston were just not at the races and the blue defence, especially Terry and Cahill, was very resolute. When Cork and Davis came off the midfield was overrun and the back four were exposed to some wonderful football from Willan, Tores and Oscar..

I’m afraid Saints looked very ordinary…
0


tsbains64 added 13:04 - Jan 2

The team only got going in the second half. The first half was poor due to the tactics. Midfeild was too lught weight -so no surprise when Yossi got pushed aside and the Rovers raced down and Robinson scrored-great pass from Macheda.
We could and should have been a couple of goals up but the finishing was too lightweight-Rovers deserved their lead and could have had a couple more. Harry changed the setup with 2 upfront and a stronger midefield. ONeil and Barton started bossing the game and the equaliser was no surpirse. Good to see Phillips amongst the goals
Despite all the huffing and puffing we were poor upfront but Rovers were no better
A perfect cross well into injury time at last landing in the right spot for Austin to head in a winner. His celebration spoke volumes!! but it was Simpson cross that should have been appreciated more
Felt sorry for Rovers but relief at getting the points
0


BouncesCZ added 15:10 - Jan 4

Live in Czech tv Nova Sport yeas yeas
1


LostBoys added 20:29 - Jan 4

some good goals but astonishing defending - all over the place
0


pedrodale added 11:44 - Jan 5

Simply Awsome
1


Yorkshire_Dale added 17:27 - Jan 9

My son rang me from Sydney Australia asking "where you there?"

Best match ever.......fantastic.

Later, Best Man at my wedding also rang(have n't seen him for years)........ remarking on Hendo's goal, superb!

Then my sister who lives in Bormuff,knows nowt about footie! also rang,
0


jfk added 11:31 - Jan 12

0-0 a decent reflection of first half. They had some chances, but mostly gifted by us - a couple from misplaced or miscontrolled passes at the back/midfield, and two from OUR corners!!!. To be fair, we ultimately saw off the danger each time, including a good save by Green (although it was hard to make out what was going on in that scramble 'til it was on TV later). They gifted us one chance in return, but we also made a couple of our own, including one which resulted in a great save off Austin.

Second half started in a similar, fairly scrappy way, but once Niko had scored we started to play with more purpose and Ipswich really lost all belief. The first goal was a good individual effort, but the other two were "soft" defensively.

I wouldn't say we won it as a result of high tempo, high quality football, but all-in-all a good day out and QPR fans in good voice all the way through

1


francisbowles added 20:23 - Jan 18

A new formation 4312 with Kranjcar in the hole behind Charlie and AJ. We struggled in midfield where we were outnumbered and gave the ball away far too much. LTC played some excellent balls but more poor ones, needs to be less complacent.

Great save from Green but we were fortunate that it flew off his hands and over the bar.

Good substitutions Phillips and Traore both added pace and width and made chances for the team.

Yet again we grind out the first half and are more dominant in the second. Huddersfield played nice football but struggled with the final ball and the finishing. They will be difficult to beat for our rivals. A good three points.
1


tsbains64 added 09:07 - Jan 19

Huddersfeild were impressive and should have been a couple of goals up by half time. Poor finishing let them down and a week Rs midfeild did not help
If Robbins had a bit of money they would be promotion challengers
Second half Rs display improved -Austin was clinical with the first one but at one nil we were still on thin ice.
As expected Town equalised with Wells-he seems a good buy!
That only encouraged Rs to put int their best passage of play -Phillips and AJ should have done better with their opportuinites but it fell to Austin to make a brave header for the points
Felt we were a touch forunate to gte the points and think Town will affect the promotion teams.
Great to have Phillips and Traore speeding down the wings-they could really run havoc
Got a weak link with Carroll-just seems too laid back but did not let his head go down and made a fine tackle towards the end
Really missed Barton
Fantastic away support -prob the best of the season
2


davman added 09:08 - Jan 19

A routine win in the end, but the team's shape was wrong first half. Town exploited our lack of width well and should have taken at least one of their two or three clear chances. Second half, it felt as if there was only going to be one winner, even after their equaliser.

Individually (player for player) we were streets and streets ahead of them, but I'm still concerned that Arry hasn't translated that to the team - there wasn't actually much between the teams in the end.
2


pomanjou added 09:43 - Jan 19

Very fortunate Rangers.

Huddersfield won the first half in a canter in all aspects except scoring.

The use of width and speed in the second made all the difference and we were at least able to move up a gear after they equalised in order to nail it.

Individual superiority is not being fully translated into team performances. Harry, time to up your performance fella.
0


MickB added 10:20 - Jan 19

I wonder if Rangers would have had a better shape with New at the back. Huddersfield seemed to find lots of space between our midfield and defence. And the flat midfield? Carroll might look better (and his mistakes might look less threatening) further forward and Henry slow movement of the ball would matter less if he played deeper.
1


bloberts added 11:27 - Jan 19

We're still trying to find a formation to suite our style, when we play 4-2-3-1 we play boring short pass football, while when we play 4-4-2 we play extremely direct football, a middle point would be grand, but not complaining too much, we must be safe from relegation now!
I actually thought Henry was our MOM because he did a lot of the dirty stuff and was much better with distributing the ball to our better players.
Hill and BAE weren't particularly great today defensively, although I think BAE had one of his better attacking performances.
Good result anyways!
Oour fans still p*ss me off mind
1


francisbowles added 00:33 - Jan 29

The same as usual, opposition in our faces, we find it hard to get into a rhythm and give the ball away frequently. Opposition fail to take early chances and Green watches one long range effort hit the crossbar. So we survive the first half and even go one up. Second half we start much better score a second, opposition runs out of steam for a bit, we look like we will score at least one more but on numerous occasions the final ball lets us down. We don't and, with one eye on Saturday, Harry withdraws Austin and Krancjar. Bolton are rejuvenated by their own subs and go close a couple of times, score a late goal and we endure another nervous finish but get the three points.
A great effort from Phillips who ran up and down the right wing and kept two or three of Bolton's players occupied trying to stop him. A brave performance and a deserved goal from Austin and just hope he is ok for Saturday. Good to see Henry score to add to first goals for O'Neil and Traore this year.
I will happily settle for the same again but we will probably have to play a bit better to beat Burnley.
PS Did anyone see what happened to Charlie and was he to blame for the first minute injury to their defender?
0


MelakaRanger added 02:33 - Jan 29

Yes same old same old (for this season)

The removal of Charlie and then Niko really adversely affected the team.

SWP still cant keep on his feet.

Carrol and Henry deteriorated greatly in last 20 mins.

Better teams would have punished us in those last 20 /25 mins.

Thought Dunne and BAE did well. Phillips too. Charlie was, well, Charlie.

And surely its time that BZ was put out to stud???

Need to up our game somewhat for Saturdays 6 pointer
0


westsurreyR added 09:11 - Jan 29

Well ok - we won. And if we were in the bottom six and struggling I would have that down as a gritty and valuable 3 points. But of course we're not. I thought the first half hour was dire, as bad as the City Ground on Boxing Day, and I lost count of the number of times Karl Henry was caught in possession. So when Charlie Austin got injured I was expecting a similar outcome.

But then we got a goal - which started with Tom Carroll (who was my MOTM) being strong in midfield to keep the ball and get it out wide to Matty Phillips. And of course it was a great header.

Bolton are clearly short on confidence and the second half was a bit better. Carroll looked the part in midfield, BAE grew into his unfamiliar role playing on the "wrong" side for him and Phillips and Traore (who I thought had a good game albeit with one defensive blunder early on) marauded down each wing to some effect.

And of course I'm pleased for Karl Henry - it was a great strike from what, 25 yards? - but the shouts of "shoot" around me every time he got the ball anywhere on the field after that rather summed up what we all thought - one great goal doesn't make him a decent player.

I know Joey Barton isn't everybody's cup of tea on here, but from what I've seen there is a stark difference between what we look like when he plays (a decent team without enough cutting edge), and when he doesn't (mid-table scrappers at best). So I just hope he's fit for the next three games. Our record against the top six so far this season in case anyone's forgotten - P5 W1 D1 L3.
0


HastingsRanger added 09:47 - Jan 29

The first 30 minutes was very casual and another team would have punished us for this. However, from the build up to the goal for the next 45 minutes I thought we played well and really had control of the game, with good movement and understanding. We should have buried the game then but a refusal to go for goal seems to pervade.

The substitutions were understandable, especially Austin, but it was always risky at only 2-0 as the midfield was weakened now.

I cannot see the point of SWP, am I missing something? He offers nothing in any department and severely weakens the team. I thought BZ did quite well. Not sure if that is because he has been so bad previously.

Saturday will be interesting!
0


izlingtonhoop added 16:27 - Jan 29

The Championship, on the evidence I've encountered at LR this season really is crap. One powder-puff team after another turns up in hideous away-kit (last night; second to Leicester so far) carves our defence apart a few times in the first half, misses most or all of their guilt edged chances and we get one more goal than them in the second. It's boring, although I do like the winning feeling.

The Doncaster game. They really should have been 4-0 up, truly lamentable finishing scuppered that.

Hastings, you say "another team would have punnished us for this", and I know what you're getting at, but which one!? Even Leicester only scored one, which meant our usual 'score one more than them' was still eminently feasible, it just didn't come off.

Last night. They had two maybe three chances that should, or like the bar strike could, have bulged the onion bag but this is a really low standard of football. And then Greeno did a great job with anything else that came near.

It's preposterous what these blokes get paid, yeh they can all do it better than I ever could, but it's really Not Very Good.
0


tsbains64 added 19:31 - Jan 29

Away fans summed it up-they were crap but we were not much better
Carroll seems to be abig liability and loosing faith in him fast-what does Harry see in him?
Great to see Henry get on the score sheet and put in a shift in the defence
Austin wa a star but think injurys are catching up with him and he may not be fit enough for Burnley
Liked both Traroe and Phillips maruding runs but why make us suffer with the late jitters
If Bolton had a bit more faith they could have had a share of the points
Roll on Burnley-a real test of what we are made of!
0


francisbowles added 16:33 - Feb 1

A good result, how good we will know later on! A very open entertaining game in which we started very well.
Just as well we didn't play BAE at rb as they targeted him and ala Mackie forced him into errors one of which led to the third goal.
Good performances all round and two debut goals and a first for Dunne.
Doyle had a superb start to the game, worked hard and was very good in the air. Understandably, he tired a bit in the later stages. A very good signing on this performance.
Maiga, well he scored and won a few headers. Needs to get to know his teammates and didn't get that long.
Defensively, we are now making mistakes and the early season solidity, and luck, has gone.
Yet another serious injury, this time to Phillips. Hope that Hoillett, who looks much better on the right, and Traore can recover from their knocks otherwise we will only have SWP as a winger!
2


tsbains64 added 18:55 - Feb 1

What a great game! Both teams put in a perfromance and there were plenty of us biting our nails before Maigia got the equaliser.
Great to see a team come and play for a win. Our luck ran out there are other times when away teams doninate but cannot convert there chances-this time they did
Surprised Burnley scored with their first attack-Grren could have doen better
Doyle was impressive liked his attitude and stamina. Barton coming
back made a real difference
A reals urprise with Dunne making it 2-1 but he has had a number of opportunites to open his account in other matches-notably Burnely away
But again Burnely came back and got the equaliser with a nother fine toe poke
Second half dominate dby Burnley-like what BEA was trying to do but credit to the attacker his chasing down forced BAE into a mistake and we were trailing
Hoilet was gettting a lot of stick from where I was sitting but his persistence paid off with his attach down the right and the cross gave Maigia a perfect debut
Harry seems to have bought well and they paid him back today but we need to tighten up at the back
Impressed with Barton,Traore and Dunne and they new players were good
Excellent game and a fair result
1


geraldo added 01:10 - Feb 2

what a flat performance after the two cup games and I think KH must take major responsibility for it.Why play a lone striker at home and then when we go behind he ends up with 3 strikers on the pitch. The miss by Donnelly in the first half says everything about him as a player......
-1


MelakaRanger added 02:44 - Feb 2

Excellent game. Electric from the start. The draw was a fair result.
The Rangers of old would have not come back from 1-2 down but to fight back twice is a credit to the team spirit Harry has created.

Doyle looked good. Not so sure about Maiga though. Junior had one of his better games for us too.

Looks like Leicester are pulling even further away so it is probable that in reality we are all playing for 2nd place.

Repeat today's performance at Derby and we will be good for a point or even more.

2


MelakaRanger added 04:50 - Feb 2

Of course I meant fight back from 2-3 down!! Doh!!!!
1


essextaxiboy added 14:35 - Feb 2

Burnley played us on a good day . Austin unfit and losing. Phillips after 5 min , Doyle not quite match fit , while they enjoy a settled side . Dissapointed to not win after leading twice , some good finishing and a defensive error means 2 home points dropped for me.
2


RonisRs added 08:38 - Feb 3

Good result under the circumstances. Not the best time to play the Burnley with a solid strike force. While it would have been good to win, the draw was fair given the changes that were forced on us and the unfamiliarity of the new team members. if we can build from here, it will be good.
as for BAE, wtf & then nearly lost it for us in the dying minutes ..........
0


Jackfath added 23:18 - Feb 8

We were great!
1


bishjack added 23:19 - Feb 8

A great all-round performance today from players, management and fans. The motivation that was lacking in previous matches shone through. After an explosive start from the swans the first half was a typical welsh derby first half with both side redistricted to few chance but Swansea edging it. In the second half Swansea's quality started to shine through with quick build up and dynamic passing. Hernandez with an inch perfect pass and Routledge with a superb finished opened the score. And Dyer with a well placed diving header got the second. Bony then completely sealed it with a fantastic header that showed his immense talent.
The fans today showed passion that brings games of the like of Forest to mind. The east stand bouncing is a sight that will stick in the memory for quite a while. And being a south standian I was surprised by the amount of singing that was done today in my stand despite it being a derby. All round great day that was perfectly summed up by a stranger that turned to me after the final whistle and said "This is better than winning the lottery".
0


codge added 23:40 - Feb 15

This was a disgraceful poor performance for a Saints team.Not to put out a team that the FA Cup deserves anymore is not fair to all fans especially the ones who travel 700 plus miles roundtrip.With a place in the last 8 and not to much to play for in the league anymore this should of been a priority to win for sure.I have supported Saints for over 50 yrs and this was such a disappointment to watch our team put in such a woeful performance. This was a game we could of won and should of.
0


darthvader added 00:39 - Feb 16

Shiite
0


darthvader added 00:40 - Feb 16

Thankfully the score wasn't quite that bad . But we sorely missed boruc in goal
0


asaintsfcangel added 11:49 - Feb 16

Check out my full match report here: http://asaintsfcangel.wordpress.com/2014/02/15/sunderland-v-southampton-the-blac
0


RonisRs added 19:41 - Feb 16

I thought the team that we put out would have beaten Bolton. unfortunately Reading were a lot better, and with a week midfield, We were taken apart by the better team.
lets hope we don't have another TV game coming up anytime soon, as we seem to do very badly in front of the cameras.
0


MickB added 21:33 - Feb 16

An unmotivated, shapeless, nervous and ponderous team packed with elderly loanees on whapping salaries.
Harry for England. Or just about anywhere else in fact. Just not here.
1


francisbowles added 21:38 - Feb 16

Our defence and central midfield has been well and truly found out and is now being exploited regularly. Reading were just the latest to capitalise on our lack of pace and cover as well as our mistakes. Green's confidence is being eroded as he had another shaky game

On a positive note Hoilett was the best we have seen him and Traore was also good on the left flank. They did what we had needed to do at Derby, get around the back and get the ball across the goal. Unfortunately, we couldn't convert what they created..
0


tsbains64 added 09:14 - Feb 17

Once they were down to 10 men we had opportunities to bring the socres level but we just could not capitalise. Reading had the edge and did score a fantastic goal but there was not much between the teams Traore was fantastic and seems to have go his zest back playing for the hoops.
Upfront Doyle was busy but Keane was non existant was hammpered our chances. At the back bot Hill and Dunne were dominant but am concerend at Greens performances
Dissapointed at our support -we need to get back behind our team when were are down ! Hopefully get a response against the next 2 teams befroe we are back on Sky
Reading did play well but were not a1-3 teambetter than us-if that makes sense
0


LoftusRob77 added 16:12 - Feb 17

Having been beaten by five of our promotion rivals you’ve got to ask yourself do we want to return to the top flight?!
A few positives from yesterday but yet again the hungrier and ultimately best team won. For the majority of the game we were off the pace and rarely first to the ball. Kranjcar’s fitness is poor. Traore stood out for me as did our talisman Hill and Dunne. Barton solid but his yellow means suspension. Hopefully Doyle will continue his good start. Green is beginning to look nervy, which is an obvious worry.
Harry’s post match interview was an honest appraisal of the game but making excuses for missing key players is clutching at straws and is an indication he’s run out of ideas. Yes we’re still in the mix but it’s not exactly convincing stuff. Tactically we didn’t do enough to take advantage of Gorkss red and the introduction of Zamora clearly divided opinion in Ellerslie Road as fighting broke out in Block W. Warnock made some interesting comments about the make-up of the squad, especially the loanees. Got to agree it’s about time we built a team for the long run or we’d be better off staying put!
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RblockPrior added 17:30 - Feb 17

A game that could of turned out so differently if we continued the way we were after our first goal, in my opinion a midfield 4 with Kranjcar in it does not work as he leaves the other central midfielder alone to defend! Positives were Hoilett Traore and Barton all 3 didnt deserve to be on the losing side. Hill won 99% of headers against Pog but left his man for the 2nd, Assou Akotto is prone to errors and clearly does not take critisim well.
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062259 added 04:22 - Feb 23

Watched the game on a stream. Lively enough for a while but very soon ran out of ideas. No shots on target says it all. Redknapp must know the game is up. He has been found out and it is now blindingly obvious that it was the influence of McLaren which created such false and misplaced optimism. Harry will not find another job in football after this. He has built a team which under his influence has underachieved massively. Poor old Charlie Austin. What has he done? Here's what. He's walked out on automatic promotion with Burnley under a dynamic, progressive coach like Sean Dyche and into a team managed by an out-of-touch, one dimensional manager and his one dimensional coaching staff, and is now staring down the barrel of another season in the Championship. And speaking of proper coaches, what about Uwe Rossler? Wigan are only 7 points behind QPR in 7th and will easily catch them before the end of the season at this rate. Never mind automatic promotion....they're not even going to make the play offs. Then it's goodbye Harry and for my money, let's get Tim Sherwood and Sir Les when Spurs boot them out at the end of the season.
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Harbour added 10:47 - Feb 23

Awful game both sides lack quality. could not understand second half subs......last 10 minutes seemed inevitable they would grab an undeserved winner..... Maiga and Morrison should have scored.. when will we play the same team 2 weeks running..
0


smegma added 17:30 - Feb 23

Why is there no 0 (zero) on the ratings page ?
0


stneotsbloke added 22:25 - Feb 23

Firstly, let me say that I've missed only a handful of home games since 1967 and in that time have, with a couple of notable exceptions, always supported our manager and blamed poor performances on the players. But ........
Harry couldn't keep us up last year and, with some justification, blamed the players he inherited but, when you really think about it, he didn't really make any positive impression and we were relegated with precious little fight. He cleared most of the dross out but has brought in another load of big names who well past their best and when you couple this to his illogical tactics I have to ask if we've actually gone backwards or forwards in the past 12 months.
Anyone has a pair of eyes in their head can see that Harry and his seemingly clueless coaching team have completely lost the plot and they clearly don't know what, or who, to try next.
Promotion is clearly off the agenda now and it's clear that if by some quirk of the play-off's we do get promoted, we'll be going up with a worse squad that we have when NW took us up in 2011, this worries me more than having another year, or three, in the Championship.
I suppose Harry will lumber along for the rest of this season and pick up a few wins on the way and he can keep on blaming injuries for what will end up being a dreadful season rather than his awful planning and player selection. Surely he should then go and leave us to start again with a younger and more technically astute manager who will hopefully believe in our youngsters and start building something positive for the future.
A repeat of the recent dismal performances against Leeds and it could get very nasty for Harry ...........
Our supporters and Mr Fernandes deserve better than this !!
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062259 added 12:52 - Mar 1

Sitting here half an hour into the game, losing 1-0, and there is no change whatsoever to what we have seen these past few weeks. QPR are pedestrian, lacking ideas and creativity, unable to execute. Leeds are pacy, aggressive and direct. We're looking at a heavy defeat...0-3.
-2


francisbowles added 19:41 - Mar 1

A poor start, didn't look like a penalty but seems that Bond says it was.

Overall, thought we were just about the better of two pretty average teams. No outstanding performances, Traore dangerous but gave away free kick, with stupid challenge which led to their goal and missed a chance to put us 2-1 up just after half time. He also picked up an injury near the end which is a concern. Morrison looks promising, if he doesn't go off the rails! Doyle worked hard and looked lively. Jenas had one of his rare decent games. Green saved a penalty but it was a poor effort and he continues to look shaky. Onuoha adds a bit of pace and strong play to the defence. Hughes still hasn't impressed since he arrived. Henry was pretty solid but got a yellow card for a very late challenge when Kebe was going away from goal.

For Leeds, Kebe looks like he has lost his pace since his Reading days and McCormack apart from his free kick, looked pretty ordinary. On this showing, he doesn't look like he has the pace for a higher level.

The five loan limit is a problem as all the fit strikers are on loan and that takes up three of the five. Add in Morrison and it leaves one other space.

Rot stopped. Barton back next week. Hopefully, he can team up with Morrison and we will see an improvement. We need it with four of the next five away!
1


codge added 22:37 - Mar 1

Again failure to take our chances in front of goal cost us once more. Same story of more than the opposition in possession but nothing to show for all the passing of the ball around.Adam was all class and a sure bet to go to Brazil, we deserved more from this game but sadly we got zip.
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tsbains64 added 08:08 - Mar 2

Great goal from Jenas -showed flashes of class but was not quite consistent
Leeds looked averge but Wickham and McCormack looked good . Gone are the days when we were guaranteed clean sheets looks like other teams have worked us out or is age begining to tell?
Looked like d apenalty but it ws one of the few mistake Dunne made
Really impressed with Traore and Doyle-like the latters hard work off the ball and won anumber of headers that should not have been his
A second goal ealry in the second half from Traore could have led to all three points but that was the best that it got in the second half
Morrison? Did not show much of the brilliance that I have heard about but we still have a games for him to convince me
Dissapointed -for sure but I still believe in Harry without those long term injuries we would still be in second place
The next few games will be the making of us -play offs look like th ebest option for us
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winchesterbob added 10:21 - Mar 2

codge got it right. Poor strike force, poor ref, poor substitutions. Not impressed with Lallana's dive in the area, not impressed with Swarez dive over Fonte in the area.
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webberg added 10:38 - Mar 2

Essentially it came down to quality of strikers.

Suarez had one half chance and buried it. Jay Rod and Lallana had better chances and failed. Getting caught on the break for the second was understandable BUT.. I thought the defence - with the exception of Chambers - had poor games. We made more Liverpool chances than they did. Shaw has not done himself any favours yesterday in terms of playing for England.

Ramirez was great for the first 10 minutes of the second half then disappeared. Wanyama is just not good enough in possession to play the style MP wants. (He was unlucky to get booked for a perfectly good tackle).

The ref was vague and never in control but he was equally bad for either team. Time we looked at adding a quality finisher because I fear that without one, we are a mid table team.
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francisbowles added 10:38 - Mar 2

Did Green an injustice. Having seen the highlights, he was down very quick to save the penalty, the free kick took a big deflection which I hadn't seen and the save where he pushed the ball out was better(safer) than I thought.
1


RonisRs added 12:58 - Mar 12

so many chances - no goals ..
1


francisbowles added 15:38 - Mar 12

I thought we were well on top and 2-0 definitely flattered Brighton.

Nice ground easy access and exit and comfortable seats with plenty of leg room. However, my seat was in the corner and low down (row J) even though I got from box ofice just an hour or so after it opened. It made it difficult to get a perspective on what was happening at the far end and at times to work out if it was Hill or Dunne who was making challenges.

Transport links and car parking difficult for remote location. Hope we can do better, in future, but always going to be a major headache. We are so lucky with LR.
1


tsbains64 added 21:50 - Mar 15

Got the result .Some great play involving Ravel and Niko,Solid at the back with Dunne and Hill. Both Jenas and Traore are getting better and more committed-the latter looks like he will be out for wahile and will be missed
Always felt that we could win against the Green army but it took a lot longer than expected and only when Zamora was back
Keane is young but does not read the game well-why was he loaned?
Impressed with the away fans and the game could have been completely different if the shot that hit the crossbar was slightly lower
Great to have a win again but think that the play offs willl be the best that we get with the top two more consistent than us
0


webberg added 08:15 - Mar 17

I would call this a game of 4 parts.

In the opening 15 minutes or so, we threatened to run up a massive score and played well. The choice of a single striker which looked odd on paper did not seem to make much difference.

Then a period of endeavour and effort but no penetration. I did not detect any Norwich tactical changes, but the Saints just seemed to lode their way.

The second half and especially after Ricky came on and we were a bit more direct saw us pick up, score twice and were cruising.

The last 10 minutes or so we did our best to throw the game away. Against a better team we could have converted 3 points to 1 easily and that sort of sloppy approach has to be nipped in the bud. How many good teams win matches in the last 10 minutes? Most of them because they play for the whole 90.

Referee was inconsistent and on another day I suspect that Norwich could have been down to 10 or less.

Perhaps 7/10 but concentration needs to be better.
0


062259 added 16:55 - Mar 22

Krancjar and Morrison both very fortunate not to be sent off for second bookable offences.

Another performance lacking any real sign of goal threat. Keane is willing but a powder puff presence. Hoillet never seems able to execute, despite the many promising positions he finds himself in. Morrison is in another league but needs the supply that nobody is good enough to provide.
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asaintsfcangel added 16:19 - Mar 24

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http://asaintsfcangel.wordpress.com/2014/03/24/tottenham-hotspurs-v-southampton-

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tsbains64 added 08:38 - Mar 26

Probably the best game of the season . Wigan were great and I can see them only getting better but we shaded it
There were strong performances all over the park in particular Green, Zamora and Barton.
Great to get an early goal which should have settled the nerves but Wigan came back strongly and dominated the first half
Not a fan of Carroll but he put in a good shift though some of his passes went wayword. Sevral fine saves from Green including one deep into injury time meant that we leap frogged in to 3rd position
Proud of the ways Rangers performed especially after the Sheff Weds debacle-hopefully this will get us on a run and into the automatic positions but will be a tall order
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Recoilboss added 08:40 - Mar 26

Definitely rode our luck at times - Green outstanding - but effort levels from everyone much improved over last two games. Been advocating Yosi’s full inclusion since he arrived, he’s a class act. Never panics on the ball, excellent control & decisions, creative player (ludicrous red card, thx ref). Carroll’s a liability - tried hard, did some ok things but naively gives the ball away far too often in terrible positions & almost cost us a goal (Faurlin would be such a good replacement for him - if only). Hill played well although missing in action a couple of times at left back. Even Bobble Z did ok holding up the ball although clearly held together by sticky glue - any half decent forward would have lashed that opportunity home. Well done R’s - too late to catch Burnley, bollocks. May have to play Wigan a couple more times - won’t be easy.

Bottom line for me is that everyone put a shift in, which is all you can ask whatever the result. This has to happen EVERY SINGLE GAME to have any chance of promotion. Philips & Austin back and we could just make it. Wish Harry had launched the teacups a bit more often this season.
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HastingsRanger added 08:48 - Mar 26

Great team effort against a very good team. All you ask for really. Quick passing and further up the field, gave Wigan plenty to think about rather than the ponderous build up.

Hill was outstanding at the back - loved the chant of 'It's like watching Clint Hill'. Dunne looked a bit vulnerable on the ground against this type of team. Cannot understand what happened in the sending off. Nearly lost it with Gomez going down so easily on the edge of box.
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MickB added 09:19 - Mar 26

Can't complain about the work effort last night with several players visibly knackered towards the end.
I do feel that part of the reason why Wigan sometimes dominated the midfield and looked threatening was that with our elderly defence, Carroll in particular but also Barton are not best suited to playing in a 4-2-3-1 formation which requires the '2' to focus as much on ball winning and retention as creativity. The problem is exacerbated when the full backs are 'protected' by the lightweight Benayoun and the ponderous Kranjcar.
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WestBerksHoops added 09:47 - Mar 26

1st Half: We need to address the RB spot ASAP, Hughes struggled in the opening 20 mins! Playing 4 Center halves along the back was quite evident and even Hill was caught for pace a few times. Kranjcar obv. carrying an injury is off the pace, but, LM is this his best position? Great to watch Morrison, get the ball and just run at the opposition, it makes such a difference.

2nd Half: Couldn't believe the opening 5-10 mins we just let Wigan run at us, how one of their chances didn't go in was beyond me. Have to say Hill's tackle in the box was top class but he was clearing up our own passing mistake.

Plenty of positives last night, but, I would like to see the passing accuracy increase and some decent long range efforts on goal. That said, Morrison's free kick was top drawer, such a shame it didn't go in.

Was dreading the free kick in the last minute, I had the memory of last year re-occurring. MOM for me was Green, made some fine stops!
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francisbowles added 09:52 - Mar 26

When I was on my way to my seat in SA rd and heard the team read out , I was not a happy man. Harry had done it again. BZ starting after a bright sub appearance. Yuk left out after a good performance. Dunne recalled after a shaky period. Hughes still at rb.

However, after a bright start which forced Wigan into making four fouls in the opening minutes, led to a very good performance against a very strong team. Moving the ball better, only going backwards and sideways when necessary. We did have a shaky start to the second half when Wigan ran straight at the heart of our defence on several occasions and went very close to scoring. We also conceded several free kicks near our box in the last few minutes which had a 'deja vous' feeling about them. Otherwise, we competed well throughout and deserved the points.

Benayoun was MOM for me. Never stopped running and was everywhere including in the six yard box, for the second match running, to apply a strikers finish. Added the energy that has been absent. Very unfortunate with both yellows.

LTC had a good game. Very involved and also adding energy to the team. Yes he misplaced a couple of passes but which player didn't give the ball away at least once or twice?

Morrison didn't really get going but he was occupying their defence and making room for others. He also was extremely unlucky with a late free kick that came back of the underside of the bar.

Very good performances from Hill and Green and even a better performance from Hughes.

On the negative side knocks for Barton and Morrison, Krancjar subbed at ht and a one match ban for Yossi. How are we going to get another game out of BZ so soon? Thank goodness it's a four day gap and not three. Saturday may be very tricky. We may need a little luck on our side! However, we have 69 points and we need to keep going, play offs almost in reach and Burnley play Leicester with Wigan still to come. It's very unlikely but their is still a chance.

Well done Harry, on this occasion you got it right! (Get BZ to put his feet up for a couple of days)

Come on u Rrrrrr's
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dgt73 added 18:25 - Mar 29

Very good
0


lifelong added 19:06 - Mar 29

A very good overall performance resulting in a well deserved 3 points.
Top performances from Bony, Routledge and Vorm.
Norwich simply couldn't handle Bony who just seems to get better with every game.
A comfortable first half where Norwich posed little threat, 2 excellent goals from JDG.
When the second half started you couldn't help having thoughts of the recent West Brom and Palace games. Norwich came out very strongly and had a couple of chances in the first 5 minutes. We settled soon afterwards and a brilliant third goal by Routledge set up by the excellent Bony, sealed the 3 points.
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LesVivian added 13:54 - Mar 30

Newcastle - bunch of mainly frenchmen who did not want to know! Nothing to play for that they cared about and it showed! However, our three foreigners had nothing to do, and left the work to our England hopefuls! Based on this match, and several previous matches, I could see Jack Cork sneaking on to the plane because Wilshire is injured and overrated, and Cleverly is not good enough either!
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tsbains64 added 15:29 - Mar 30

We only started playing in the second half and did enough to win the game
Great goal from Hoilett-sadly the the oter strikers did not have the same nous to get past Gilks
We are just too inconsistent but to be fair-we have lost a number of playyers-Barton was sorely missed
Keane is a strange one but did improve from a very poor first half
Great to see Simpson back and his runs made a big difference
Ravel was classy while the defence sttod strong apart from their goal in the first half-think Black pool could have nicked it late on
With Burnley loosing we missed an opportunity to close the gap-think we should get ready for the play offs now
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asaintsfcangel added 15:40 - Mar 30

Check out my full match report here: http://asaintsfcangel.wordpress.com/2014/03/30/southampton-v-newcastle-england-t

Don't forget to vote in the poll down the bottom, thank you!!
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webberg added 09:57 - Mar 31

Difficult to tell whether we played really well or Newcastle just didn't turn up. Perhaps some of both.

Started really well and if we had been 3 or 4 up at 20 minutes (because the strikers actually put their foot through the ball rather than trying to walk it in), nobody could have complained. As it was, no score and after 25 minutes the tempo drops. Normally, against a team who want to work and try against us, that's the signal for some slightly worrying tendencies to creep in. Newcastle were not that team however and didn't seize the opportunity to bring the game to us.

Scoring just before and after half time (thanks Ricky) was what we needed and the result was never in doubt. Lallana scores from 25 yards? can't remember him even trying from that range this season. Confidence or the fact that Newcastle just stood off? Good finish from J Rod at the end.

Difficult to assess the form of our England candidates as they were not tested here at all. I did think Cork put in a shift and Chambers (who took a battering) was impressive. Unfortunately for the latter I suspect Woy has already inked in the Skate at Liverpool for that role with the Spurs boy as back up.

Cork for Brazil? Probably not. Gerrard seems to be reinvented in that role and is perhaps a bit better at the inventive pass forward (although a bit worse at tackling).

It may also have been the lack of interest from the opposition but good to see us trying from longer range and not always wanting to walk the ball in.

Good professional job but hard to say how good as the French boys from the North East are already on the beach.
0


Harbour added 11:55 - Mar 31

poor display first half terrible defending for their goal...back post ball same tactic as Charlton goal where was hughes again? second half better... something wrong with BAE..reluctant to take anyone on slow to cross... when we do get crosses in neither Keene Maiga or BZ attack the ball near post just sit their and wait for their GK to make easy catch... relying on individual to score with bit of magic JH...RM...
missed Benyoon and Barton in middle...
0


MelakaRanger added 04:33 - Apr 6

One word

Dire
1


tsbains64 added 17:53 - Apr 12

Flttered by the score but atlast we delivered
Great to go a goal ahead but it seemed that we invited Forest to get back into the game. Which they did with an easy header from a corner
Step up Junior to make it 2.1 and thought we would go on to win easily . Same again slack marking from a conrer and 2.2
Fantastic attitude from Nedum to smash it 3.2 and we almost got caught out from a corner again
Fantastic skill from Ravel to be inovled in the last two goasl-to leave us delirious on a Sat afternoon
I can see why Forest are where they are-great to see the warm welcome for Mackie
Think we should be able to get some momentum with 3 of the last 4 games winnable-then its a lottery
0


geraldo added 11:04 - Apr 19

Looks like 2010 all over again - surely we can't play as badly again.Hope Scotty not as badly injured as it looked - Donnelly is a joke!!
1


frannybill added 17:35 - Apr 19

Don't understand why Hill doesn't play Reece Bennett instead of Done, never let him down and a natural defender, NOT a converted winger!! Also Mr Hill needs to accept the fact that the people in the stand behind him have paid £20 of their hard earned money to sit there and, as such, are perfectly entitled to vent their displeasure/frustration at that sort of performance. He should concentrate on improving the performance, not arguing the toss with fans.
1


Recoilboss added 07:11 - Apr 20

BARKING UP THE WRONG TREE - a QPR dissection
by Alan Wilder

http://qpr2014.recoil.co.uk/qpr/

Happy Easter!
0


smegma added 02:58 - Apr 22

Got out of jail today but on the plus side IF we end up getting a result like this in the semi final or even at Wembley, would anyone be moaning then ??? Fair play to the players for plugging away even when they probably knew they werent having the greatest days at the office. That perseverance may just see us through in the coming weeks.
0


tsbains64 added 10:03 - Apr 22

The value of paying good money for skilled players paid off with two sublime moments that ended up as goals for Barton and Austin
At tiem we were played off the park by an impressive Watford but they lacked the cutting edge-when they did score Dunne got caught out-perhaps time is catching up with this old warrior
I liked Doyles industry but it seemed to lack in end result but he does put a shift in
Nedum and Hill were strong at the back and the return of Barton added some steel to the midfeild
Traore is a revealtion and is amrouding runs pushed back Watford

The goals were a relief but we have done waht was needed and the focus is now on the 3 playoff games
Impressed with Watford the Italian plays some good fottball but they need that cutting edge. Their fans were loud and proud and added to a great Easter atompshere
0


Stanisgod added 12:57 - Apr 22

Sorry, but there is no way Barton and LTC works in a 4 man midfield, never has never will. I'd prefer Henry in front of the back 4 at the expense of Doyle, he can mop up when LTC loses possession or passes it to the oppo yet again.
0


asaintsfcangel added 19:23 - Apr 26

Check out my match report here:
http://asaintsfcangel.wordpress.com/2014/04/26/southampton-v-everton-generous-to
0


tsbains64 added 13:33 - Apr 27

With very little to play off I am not surprised at this perfromance. Millwall just wanted it more. We were second best for most of the second half and we could and perhaps should have been a couple of goals down Can see why Millwall are fighting for survival their finishing was very poor
Simpson and Hill put in good fperformances but the Austinn shone with his industry and the penalty was taken with aplomb
Green at time makes great saves but every now and then does somehting un expected and so we gifted the Lions an equaliser
Enjoyed the atmosphere their fans were impressive despite the the threat of violence in the air

Good to see Holloway get a warm reception but thought his ranting and raving was in apporpriate
Agree that Barton should be Player of the Season but the other award should have gone to permamnet QPR player
Great to see Bowles back but had he spent too long in hospitality?
0


Harbour added 16:34 - Apr 27

they created much more first half and had at least three good chances to score. second half we were better but lack of width really helped them..big difference when junior came on .....why did he not start? Dunne a big worry lack of pace and not winning headers. Lucky to get Penalty as handball did not look deliberate...awful goal we conceded but after CA went off we did not seem to be able to keep possesion and kill the game was not a surprise when they scored....very much like the game at the Den...big improvement needed for Play offs
0


ShotKneesHoop added 22:04 - May 10

Rangers!
0


smegma added 09:42 - May 11

Just found a copy of yesterdays SUN at work. Im convinced the the reporter wasnt even at the game as his ratings for our players was as follows : Green7/Simpson 6/ Traore 7 (Doyle 5) /Morrison 6 (Kranjcar 5) /Dunne 7 / Hill 6 /Austin 6 /Onuoha 7/ Barton 6 /Hoilett 7 (Suk Young 5)/ O'Neill 5.

Boyce was the STAR MAN as well with 7 !!!!!
0


Burnleyhoop added 10:35 - May 11

I thought O'Neill had an assured display in a tight and tense game. Made very few poor decisions and retained possession well. Traore on the other hand can't find a pass to save his life......seriously flatters to deceive. Benayoun would be better option for me. Still fancy us for Monday.....cum on boys.
0


BromleyHoop added 11:18 - May 11

Burnleyhoop your rallying call of "cum on boys" could get you in trouble with the law!!

I thought Barton was MOM with Onouha not far behind. Traore and Hoilett should have swapped wings as Traore has no right foot.
0


smegma added 06:45 - May 13

For those who turned up late and missed it, Charlie Austin was presented with 3 awards before kick off. Goal Of The Season (versus Charlton), Players Player Of The Year & Supporters Player Of The Year. During the game he demonstrated why he is so highly regarded by EVERYONE.
Also, Richard Irland was presented with his Supporter Of The Year trophy by Kevin Gallen and Paul Furlong.
Congratulations to both Charlie & Richard, both richly deserved.
1


Recoilboss added 09:14 - May 13

A fantastic night - R's have had all too few of them this year & I'm worried that might be it for the season. We don't really deserve to go up and rob Derby (the worthy 3rd place team) but last night Kranjcar in particular was outstanding, Loftus Rd - spine tinglingly electric, & Clattenburg was brilliant - put the usual incompetents who officiate in the championship to shame.
How great it would be to see R’s play with that amount of intensity, pride and determination every week. And a soaked Bloodhound pumping his chest - priceless...
0


RonisRs added 09:35 - May 13

what a great evening that was. we thoroughly deserved it.
0


HastingsRanger added 10:10 - May 13

Great stuff and pleasing to overcome the time wasting antics, not least Carson's mystery wrist injury. The team got better as the game went on and Zamora outshone his previous cameo roles. For once, they looked a force to be reckoned with. Great to get to Wembley! Several great performances out there, Barton as a committed footballer included. Yun looks a great long term option too.
0


quickpassrotter added 12:55 - May 13

I know a lot is said about Clattenburg and his preening looks and approach etc but he is a first class referee. Brilliantly handled the match last night. A referee right on top of his game.
We got stronger as the game went on - a true team effort. Our big players stood up and were counted last night.
I think that if we set ourselves up in the right way then we will beat Derby at Wembley.
0


Phil_i_P_Daddy added 13:05 - May 13

Anybody impressed by 'arry's manly refusal to put a waterproof coat on?
God, he must REALLY love the R's after all. T'rrific!
0


tsbains64 added 13:41 - May 13

Just terrific as Arry would say. Once we got going there was great passion and fight-that has not been seen for a long time
Impressed with Nico some great touches that should have been rewarded with a goal. Wonderful and vibrant atmosphere really did raise this occasion to cup final levels!
Even the grumpy old men behind me who disliked Austin-loved this show
A spectucular night where we finally delivered. Now onto the Rams......
0


DaleView added 18:41 - May 23

A carnival afternoon hosted by Newport County, Dale's last opponents when Newport were relegated from the football league 25 years earlier. Newport had nothing but pride to play for having enjoyed a comfortable return to the football league the previous August. Dale were in carnival mood since securing promotion the previous week and within their grasp, albeit rather optimistically, was the possibility of becoming champions of the division. This relied upon a win for Dale and a defeat for Chesterfield, the current leaders who were playing at home against Fleetwood. The early exchanges seemed promising for THe Dale and the lead was taken midway through the first half shortly after news of Fleetwood beating Chesterfield came through. Elation in the visitors' end at Newport. The mood was somewhat subdued towards the end of the first half as Newport equalised. Late in the second half it looked as if Dale were going to do their bit when they were awarded a penalty. No names will be mentioned but the penalty was saved. Late on the bubble burst when the ball literally bounced off a Newport player's head an foiled the reach of Dale's keeper. That ended the championship possibilities and news came through that Chesterfield had turned round their deficit and beat Fleetwood. In any event that would have denied Dale their ultimate ambition. The Dale fans still applauded their team at the end, recognising a magnificent season that ended with a tinge of sadness but with much elation at their promotion.
0


Harbour added 17:46 - May 25

fantastic day at wembley a day i will never forget...after sending off we defended well... was great play from junior to win the ball back get the crossin and a brilliant first time shot from bobby that will make him part of qpr folklaw for ever.... great being there with all my family and 40k other rangers fans a joyous day.ursss
1


francisbowles added 18:35 - May 25

Zamora's strike must go down as the most memorable strike in my 44+ years of watching the Rrrr's, moving above Clive Allen's FA cup semi final winner at Highbury.

What an unbelievable moment!
1


tsbains64 added 19:15 - May 25

Unbelievable! What a way to return to the EPL. Zamora rose to the occasion and hit the ball true to hit the top corner of the net. There was a moment of silence,disbielf and shock ...and then the eruption of joy and euphoria!!
Band of Brothers as Barton said -I saw it at Wigan and today-fantastic
alsomost 40,00 fans shock the house down
Hats off to Mclaren and the Derby boys for staying and appauling the wiiners-it must have been diffucult.Well done Harry
1


bollockchops added 19:55 - May 25

To actually walk away from Wembley after your team has won,is a new feeling that i have never experienced in my 47 years as a fan,and it was great to share that experience with my neice (the next generation),very emotional and very drunk,i now need a new camera and a new pair of jeans after celebrating the goal.Prior to the game what i was most impressed about rangers fans was there willing ness to get others tickets.
3


RonisRs added 12:08 - May 26

That was one phenomenal experience being there to witness the pain and the gain.
The team were superb, sticking together as one tight unit. well done to Harry, Tony, the whole team and us fans.
0


smegma added 15:19 - May 26

I've seen us win at Wembley at last after four attempts !! Life doesn't get any better for a Rangers fan.
0


willyekerslike added 21:26 - Aug 9

for the first half hour , pool were made to look like amateurs , but after that , they seemed to gel together better . in the second half , pool were as good as forrest , with some half chances , tings look promising for pool this season , not play-offs , but safe in mid -table , well done guys !!!
0


WindyMiller added 22:09 - Aug 9

I just think that the whole pre-match registration news, Pearce's welcome, the pre-season lack of time to gel, players out of position and two great goals undid us. Wish we would have gone for it a bit more but in fairness the result was about right. Not the one sided game that Forest fans made out and enough to feel we won't be the worst team in the league but I hope the Club Secretary is sat at home writing 100 lines of 'I must register players before a game'!!
0


HarwoodSeasider added 09:23 - Aug 10

Started 4-5-1. Forrest applied all the early pressure however we were undone by a speculative long range shot that surprised Lewis and the rebound off the post was put into the goal by Antonio which was far from easy. The second goal was an excellent curling left foot strike by Burke from outside the box. This could have led to an avalanche but the score remained 2-0. This was primarily due to it being hot and the first game of the season as well as Forrest tiring. But we changed formation to a 4-4-2 in the second half and enjoyed more possession and competed far better. I am still seething at the lack of registered players, heads must roll for this calamitous school boy error. A worry that Riga thought is was better to play a midfielder,in Perkins, who does not know how to play left back than a poor left back in Dunne. Overall, some flashes of how Riga wants the team to play which is far better than last year but the fact we are suffering from a lack of pre- season there is no doubt. The fact we didn't ship 5/6 goals is a bonus. Get the signed players registered to add quality to the side otherwise it could be a pointless August. MOTM was McMahon who also captained the side well followed closely by Lundstram. The biggest worry is where will the goals come from? Bizarrely, all the signed unregistered players came and sat with the away fans and were in front of me in the first half including Cubero, Orion twins and agent which was interesting, let's hope the other one signs, three others and Davies. UTP
0


ColDale added 10:16 - Aug 10

Good game I thought. Two decent passing teams and the game was played at a million miles an hour at times. Key thing for me was the comparison with our first eague One game back in 2010. We were outclassed by Huddersfield that day, and they were a side that we deemed to be our equivalent. We all know Posh are a much more experienced and funded side, but I felt we matched them. They got the break, we didn't. If we play with that intensity and confidence throughout the season, we'll do alright.
0


zxcvbnm added 10:33 - Aug 10

Always felt that Peterborough has a goal in them, it was a shame that defensive hesitancy was punished and then the spoiling tactics took over breaking up the rhythm of the game.
0


tazzydjr added 12:21 - Aug 10

Decent Match but as per usual the Villain's end up getting an win because of an referee what played to the Posh crowd
1


geraldo added 12:52 - Aug 10

Agree with the others that it was a decent match/performance, but always thought their attack posed a bigger threat. Tanser looks a real find but until we get a proper striker we will struggle to compete.There has been a lot said about GD already but having seen his woeful performances pre-season I was amazed to see him start the game.IMHO he is probably the worst footballer in this league and KH needs to shift him out on loan!!
1


pedrodale added 19:25 - Aug 11

Game was ok I supose, player ratings not working
0


geraldo added 23:16 - Aug 12

another 90 mins and no goals or real attempts on goal,We had a sack load of corners but nothing came of them. Another pathetic performance from GD - when will Hill wake up to the fact that he just isn't up to it!!
0


Tangerine_Cabbie added 01:12 - Aug 13

Basically the Blackpool players looked like strangers.... having no pre season and getting them in lastminmcom is blatantly obvious 😠
0


Dale1940 added 08:14 - Aug 13

Why did we not switch Bunney to the left and Vincenti to the right , it seemed as if we were trying to handicap ourselves? I would play Tanser at left fullback as he is the best crosser of the ball.
0


billynomates added 08:22 - Aug 13

From a Blackpool perspective 2 words NOT GOOD.
Shrewsbury good little side do well in league 2
0


dalefan1uk added 13:17 - Aug 13

Well our 2nd game of the season and if we could stick the 1st halves of this and the Peterborough game together then we'd have a great result. We started the game with a few changes from Saturday with Joe Bunney, Peter Vincenti, Calvin Andrews, Bastien Hery coming in for Allen, Done and Donnelly and Rafferty. Vincenti and Bunney were patrolling the wings whilst Andrews was up top. The first half was controlled by Dale and our chances came from Joe Bunney who's cross come shot clipped the crossbar and went out being our best chance. The game was turned on its head just before half-time when the ball was bundled over the line by Preston, the heavens opened and the players walked in with there heads down. The 2nd half started and on 48mins came Prestons second goal, the ball wasn't cleared from Dales box and fell to Kilkenny who rifled the ball home from near the penalty spot. Dale were now fighting an uphill battle against a defending Preston side and the elements. Changes were made but we just couldn't get back in the game. All told we don't do well in the Carling cup and can now concentrate on the league, I feel we need a striker asap even though it's early days.
1


off2div1 added 15:55 - Aug 13

how do you see average of every ones rating
0


pedrodale added 17:28 - Aug 13

Shyte
0


Wizaard added 19:41 - Aug 14

For me it became clearer that try as they might, the team just consists of individuals at the moment, and we're even short of those.

There's an international break in the first week in September. Before that we have four games. Given where we are, in effect, that's our preseason. Pick up anything and it will be a bonus. Once we get to Sept 13, the season starts in earnest.

Until then the team and manager need to be given time to sort the mess out.

Last night, we struggled for cohesion understandably with a back four who probably hadn't even trained as a unit. Unsurprisingly we struggled all evening.

The positives were that Miller is still the player who used to terrorise us. If he stays fit he'll be a real force. Clarke was solid all evening and can be the leader the defence need.

The support did exactly that and backed the team throughout while understandably giving the Oystons some grief.

I went to a new ground. That's it as far as I'm concerned.

For self inflicted reasons, we're playing a 40 game season compared to everyone else. We need to be supportive and I still believe Riga can give us a season to remember for the right reasons.
0


Sheffieldjack added 16:35 - Aug 16

Wow! Just Wow! A great start to the season. Fabianski was confident, the back four solid, the midfield ticked over well and we really threatened on the counterattack. Sigurdsson played well in the right position for him. Well done Monk/the Board for resigning him! Montero and Gomis settled in quickly and played well when they came on, and even the much maligned Tiendalli did a good job for us as a substitute for Taylor. With a few more signings to strengthen further, and no Thursday evening Europa Cup games to stretch the squad, we might even finish higher than last season. And who knows - a Cup run again? And we were singing..................
0


willyekerslike added 18:40 - Aug 16

great improvement today from pool , if it was'nt for man of the match robinson , pool could have won 3-2 , am looking forward to tuesday's match , brentford look out !!!!!
0


willyekerslike added 18:40 - Aug 16

great improvement today from pool , if it was'nt for man of the match robinson , pool could have won 3-2 , am looking forward to tuesday's match , brentford look out !!!!!
0


HantsR added 19:40 - Aug 16

A very promising start with newbies looking comfortable and a promising return for Faurlin. Thought we closed them down well but seemed to tire out in 2nd half. Subs were justified as midfield was starting to show its lack of pace and creativity. To be fair, Hull defended well and some last-ditch tackles helped them keep clean sheet. We had chances to draw or even win near the end but t'was not to be. We must make more of crossing and set pieces.
0


clarkestattoo added 20:13 - Aug 16

Thought that we looked decent and hopefully with the addition of Orlandi and Ranger by Tuesday it should bode well against Brentford.
0


pnc4eva1 added 08:04 - Aug 17

The game was all about Mr Boyeson
0


ozranger added 08:25 - Aug 17

Many will hate me saying this, but... we played Championship football against a Premiership team. Hull were not that good, but when they strung passes together it showed that they were a Premiership team and, more so, a team that was ready to play as of Day 1. We, unfortunately, will take another few weeks before we can gel into a real Premiership team, as much as everyone is hyping us all up. The continuous pumping the ball up to our forwards with the rare ball down the wings just showed why our style requires significant refinement. Let's see what Spuds game produces; more of the same and we will not survive at all.
0


ozranger added 08:26 - Aug 17

Many will hate me saying this, but... we played Championship football against a Premiership team. Hull were not that good, but when they strung passes together it showed that they were a Premiership team and, more so, a team that was ready to play as of Day 1. We, unfortunately, will take another few weeks before we can gel into a real Premiership team, as much as everyone is hyping us all up. The continuous pumping the ball up to our forwards with the rare ball down the wings just showed why our style requires significant refinement. Let's see what Spuds game produces; more of the same and we will not survive at all.
0


HollowayRanger added 13:12 - Aug 17

remy caulker Ferdinand a class apart from the rest , wingbacks were very poor and offered nothing going forward and for gawd sake get someone in who knows how to take a set piece ,at a guess id say 50% of goals these days come from set pieces ie penalties corners freekicks we need someone better then barton taking then
2


bigrob68 added 15:53 - Aug 17

better team lost
2


TijuanaTim added 16:28 - Aug 17

Clatts could spoil a new €unt....attention whore
0


SaintGeorge added 16:28 - Aug 17

Very positive. Gave Saints a higher rating than Liverpool because I genuinely thought we played better footy. Tadic & Bertrand outstanding, Wanyama / Mignolet MOM.

Did Johnson play? Could've fooled me.
2


1teeminants added 16:39 - Aug 17

Bertrand, Wanyama, Tadic ,Fonte
all excellent. Best team lost.
3


codge added 16:52 - Aug 17

Very pleased overall, alot to look forward too, Tadic looks very useful and hope we get to keep him permanently.
1


areasix added 18:04 - Aug 17

A draw would have been a far result great to see Morgan play with heart after only one weeks training unlucky with the shot that hit the bar coyr
1


Harbour added 18:07 - Aug 17

Good first half like the formation. with a bit of luck could have won this, but poor defending by rio for their goal cost us and he had great chance to score second half....felt simpson could have come off earlier he seemed reluctant to take anyone on... barton corners and freek kicks not great. AF first half good second half tired...felt for Charlie worked his socks off chased down their goalie and put insome assists...his run up for the penalty gave the goalee a good idea of which way he was going to it it and far too soft. He will score goals in the Prem. REmy must stay to give us a chance of staying up best player on the pitch when he had the ball...
0


MooCowTheThird added 18:17 - Aug 17

I thought Lambert used to play for us ;(
0


rjh added 18:18 - Aug 17

Wanyama outstanding.
2


ElSanto added 19:07 - Aug 17

Very pleased with Fonte!

Not sure about Pelle, but I'll give him time.

Where the hell was Ramirez?

Good boy, Clyne.

Wanyama impressed. Haven't seen him that good since the start of last season.

1


LostBoys added 19:26 - Aug 17

Liverpool bid in for Clyne and Wanyama
0


keith_gatebroth added 20:35 - Aug 17

Ref did his best to let Man U win,but they still couldn't beat us despite his help.
0


tazzydjr added 21:46 - Aug 17

The Referee spoiled the match
0


IanRC added 00:02 - Aug 18

Great to see Morgan playing with so much passion, really unlucky not to equalise in a game which, if there was any justice, we should have won. Strikers a problem still not convinced by Long or Pelle. Hope JRod is mending well and his head is in the right place.
0


SaintDownUnder added 05:20 - Aug 18

We grew as the game did. Positives - best game i've seen Wanyama play, he was immense. Tadic looked lively and will get better. Good to see Morgan start. Negatives - Pelle looks a yard or two off the pace and whilst hes a handful in the box he didn't hold the ball up or run the channels that effectively meaning we looked blunt at times. Clynes error for the first, although he made up for it with his goal. Our failure to capitalise when were on top and had Liverpool on the ropes - Davies being the obvious culprit here.

On the whole, decent display, poor result, reason to be optimistic.
0


tsbains64 added 08:49 - Aug 18

Saw a lot to be excited about . Strong at the back and created plenty of chances . Should have fgot a point but the thats the differenc between this league andthe Championship
Impressed with what Arry is trying to do . Austin could have saved it for us but the missed penalty was unchararistic. Dissapointed but looking forward to the games ahead
Crowd was muted but good to see a full house
0


pnc4eva1 added 23:47 - Aug 19

Awesome.

Chased down every ball
0


tony56 added 08:22 - Aug 20

This. Was a good win. For Pompey. Northampton are a poor side. James dunne had a good game in midfield with atangana. Two good goal's from Wallace & westcarr. So it's three home win in a row. For the blues. P. U. P .
0


montecristo added 17:20 - Aug 23

Dreadful game, right result. Saints have an awful lot to do, they looked ponderous. where is the slick passing from last season, the players looked as if they were running on empty, and as for Pelle, what can you say he looks dreadful slow clumsy cant turn and yards off the pace. Without Wanyama and Schneiderlin we would be stuffed. Frankly I am extremely worried, because if this is the quality we can expect from Saints this season we will go down its as simple as that. We need a top striker, Hernandez for instance and a winger . I kept thinking Gallagher would have done better than Pelle, but he wasnt even on the bench. Not impressed at all. Shane Long 12 million?? yeah right....
0


Huw57 added 17:56 - Aug 23

A win is a win. Another 3 points, and Fabianski was fantastic. All good.
0


corkcitysaint added 18:29 - Aug 23

Poor game, disappointing result. Teams looks unbalanced. Miss the neat, slick passing / inter play of last season. Seems to be no guile up front. Too direct with the balls lumped up to Pelle with his back to goal to whole time. One positive point is Tadic. Would like to see a decent striker and CB. We only had 2 attempts on target… It's a point on the board but a long road ahead.
3


Phil_S added 18:37 - Aug 23

Scrappy wins are vital in any season and this was a scrappy win. Was always a potential banana skin after last week but we came through it and lie 2nd. I'll take that ;-)
0


Windy_Miller added 18:53 - Aug 23

Fabulousiansky - MOM for me today
0


UplandsJack added 19:07 - Aug 23

Fabianski / Ash - MOM for me
0


aceofthebase added 19:18 - Aug 23

Monte the voice of doom has resurfaced!
2


Hugh_Jarce added 19:40 - Aug 23

Yes Pelle seems to have a lot to improve on at this level but the loud ironic cheers from the muppets in the ground when he finally managed a header are really going to help his confidence
1


phact0rri added 20:16 - Aug 23

The Swans had a really strong first half, a lot of good passing and relay from the back. The pressure going forward seemed a little off. Loads of good chances that seemed a bit sloppy at execution. The nice breaking stride with a superb cross from Gylfi gave dyer the much needed break through so it wasn't all for not. Burnley just sat back and waited for counter attacking which didn't do well against our fierce line.

The second half was a different story. Swans went down to first gear and let Burnley take possession way to easily. The swansea mid field seemed to break until the very end, with Burnley taking a great hold of the chance. Fabiansky did well to craddle the blows and the superb partnership between Williams and Taylor did well to keep us a clean sheet.
0


sidsaint added 21:02 - Aug 23

very poor after the second half at Liverpool promised much more. Bertrand is no Shaw, Tadic no Lallana and Pelle certainly no Lambert. Schneiderlin and Wanyama and Ward-Prowse the only reminders of what we saw last year. Little pressing, little balance and little idea as to how to break down a 4-4-1-1 which all but the top teams will probably employ against us at SMS. At least we have a first class goalkeeper and it looks like we will need him. 10 days to strengthen otherwise it looks like it will be a very long season.
-2


darthvader added 21:43 - Aug 23

Yawn . Hopefully Sam Gallagher will be fit and ready soon to show Pelle how to compete . On the up side some good performances and although Maya gets a lot of stick he had a vastly improved performance imo.got stuck in followed fonte s lead and did most of the simple things right .
0


andymcrowe added 21:53 - Aug 23

They can't all be classics. Early days; plenty of time to get the blend right.
0


smiffdub added 22:40 - Aug 23

Saints had nothing in the final third of the pitch and although WBA were well marshalled they were never in any real danger. Saints's 21 million attacking duo looked like they should be playing on a local park somewhere near you on Sunday
0


BoondockSaint added 00:43 - Aug 24

Much like the past couple of years: playing to level of the opposition. Pelle needs to learn he's not going to have much time to move the ball. Forster really good-calm, grabs the ball and holds on rather than just knocking it down, puts his foot through it when needed.
0


SaintGerard added 00:55 - Aug 24

Boring game and the right result although rather disappointedly I would give WBA extra points for effort even though they came for a draw.

WBA are becoming like a lot of other sides in the Premiership who not only dive or die like the sniper bullet has hit them (when the offensive play is against them) but are also wasting time at every free kick, goal kick and throw in; it's getting very boring even if it might be a highlight in the european leagues.

Ref very pernickety and if he had exercised control from the off, the game might have been more fluent.

From the back, Forster very strong and confident and good for defence.

Yoshida, a liability. Get a replacement.

Bertrand is good and Clyne is better but please both, try and get past the last marker.

Fonte solid, and Yoshida not so solid; the latter tries hard and heads everything but more marks given for effort rather than PL skill.

Morgan, Davis and Wana doing their bit but got bullied off the ball like everyone else.

WBA know their place and know where they stand; they're physical and apart from endless time-wasting' they dived at every opportunity a La Liga or Serie; it got extremely boring......but a point is a point.

Pelle up front was a waste of time (and hopefully not not money because he can improve.....hopefully!!!) Dawson (WBA) took him out as did every other WBA player even though Pelle has about four to six inches advantage on everyone. For the few headers he did win, the direction was aimless.

And moving on, Long did not know his rightful place when he came on.

Tadic tried hard but to no effect.

Seems to me that a load of our new signings have no idea of the physicality of the PL.

They are going to have big up because lots of our new continental breakfast lads were mugged and bullied by (dis)honest pros from WBA who have been around the blocks with ASBOs attached (to ankle in sock).

JWP for me was excellent again.

Not sure about spiderman; jury still out.

Saints were passing a lot but many passes short and many hospital passes; also a lot of passes going amiss.

And while I can criticise the players, the home crowd were't so great either; the stadium today was as quiet as the library Saints were accusing LFC of having.

And finally, and this really annoys me to say this, WBA won todays bore draw for playing for the shirt.

I never mind about the end result but only if the side I support tries their hardest.

I didn't get that today and it was worse from one players than other.

WBA wanted the game; I didn't get the feeling that Saints did.

And if this continues, it won't matter what the fans, the Liebers, and Koemann want; it will be back to square one.

But hey ho, I've been around for forty years and the roller-coaster has never been any different.

It would help if I knew what RK wanted to do.

Before committing suicide I will wait until Christmas.

COTRs!!!

0


irememberivor added 08:30 - Aug 24

Why do we tend to put ourselves under so much pressure in second halves at home? Crystal Palace and WBA last season and now Burnley. We sit so deep and seem to want to let the opposition run at us and our passing skills go out of the window. The subs made no difference at all. Didn`t really test Heaton at all in the final 45 minutes. Still, we won, and we did provide an excellent first half of football. But that was an awkward and bum-clenching second half to sit through.
0


bigrob68 added 09:18 - Aug 24

boring, not entertaining, lazy game.
0


winchesterbob added 09:40 - Aug 24

Very dull game.
0


halftimeorange added 09:54 - Aug 24

Not an unexpected result against a predictably determined opposition but a disappointingly lacklustre performance, particularly in the second half. My friend has said that he would settle for mid-table mediocrity this term - well, he got the second bit right. I personally don't think that Saints will pick up until Christmas. The one thing that got me was why play Long on the wing. Pelle should have been taken off (and needs to stay off and watch a few games to understand what is expected of him) and, as we were desperate to create something, RK should have put Isgrove on, not Jack Cork, much as I like him. The big plus was Forster - very alert and dominant.
1


SedgleyAlbion added 10:56 - Aug 24

Thought I'd give a bit of balance from an opponents view. Saint Gerrard, don't blame the away team for your own shortcomings. Opening day last season you beat us at home comfortably, this season I thought your performance was insipid. Considering it was your managers first home game, there seemed no urgency in your play, with very little quality. Poor game I agree, but I honestly believe we had the better chances, especially in the second half when our new forward came on (who incidentally looked miles better than either Long or Pelle) I genuinely hope you do ok as I think what happened to you in the summer was poor, it goes to show clubs like ours will always have a ceiling, good luck for the res of the season
1


SedgleyAlbion added 11:05 - Aug 24

Thought I'd give a bit of balance from an opponents view. Saint Gerrard, don't blame the away team for your own shortcomings. Opening day last season you beat us at home comfortably, this season I thought your performance was insipid. Considering it was your managers first home game, there seemed no urgency in your play, with very little quality. Poor game I agree, but I honestly believe we had the better chances, especially in the second half when our new forward came on (who incidentally looked miles better than either Long or Pelle) I genuinely hope you do ok as I think what happened to you in the summer was poor, it goes to show clubs like ours will always have a ceiling, good luck for the res of the season
1


Graham9 added 20:18 - Aug 24

Wigan dominant in the first half and could have been 3 up by half time against aBlackpool team struggling with the defensive formation set up by JR 2nd half Blackpoolplayed a more attacking game alleviating pressure on the beleagured Oriol and with the introduction of Miller and Ranger might have snatched an unlikely point on the day though a Wigan victory was all too deserved and in truth 1-0 flattered Pool not Wigan
0


quickpassrotter added 21:48 - Aug 24

Nothing really positive to say. Can't tell how good Spurs were because we were shocking. Most of the teams we will play will have better individual players, therefore we need to compete - tackle, put ourselves about and show energy and commitment. Overall we didn't. Work hard to create a chance(s) and then take it - we didn't work hard - we created a few chances and then squandered them. Harry, like all Managers, will have players he will not favour. Ale is one of them. Came on - won the ball, kept possession, kept it simple and found his man. He will not be selected next Saturday however. Pace is essential at this level all over the park. Ned has that in abundance, and can play and defend well - again not favoured by Harry.
Get beat 4 nil by a better team Away - OK, understandable - but certainly not in the manner of a performance like today's. Unacceptable.
0


WestonsuperR added 11:37 - Aug 25

The fact that we are goal-less, bottom of the league and have just lost 4v0 to a good Spurs side doesn't massively concern me at this very early stage of the season. What does really concern me was the dire performance, reminded me very much of the opening day demolition by Swansea. This could easily have been and possibly should have been 6 or 7. When you consider the performances of the teams likely to be in the relegation scrap with us I am even more worried, for example Burnley were decent v Swansea and Leicester seemed to give a good account of themselves at Chelsea.

I am also surprised that Harry seemed fairly clueless as to what went wrong, seemed to be a suggestion that the players didn't want it enough or were off the pace.

All very worrying.
0


romfordranger added 15:10 - Aug 25

Very disappointing and Arry will no doubt persist with a formation the players don't believe in, and also continue to pick his favourites! The extremely poor attitude for a local derby, and so many players out of form and lacking confidence so early in the season is a major concern. I hope Fernandez keeps his hands in his pockets and refuses to fund any panic purchases. Make the management team work with what they have, get them fit, motivated, and organised, and pick the in form players. Its not rocket science, but why Dunne over Onucha, and if Fer isn't match fit, why play him? Poor Faurlin will hardly get a look in, and Mutch was so poor and shouldn't just get picked purely on the money we forked out for him. Too early to panic, but if another 3-4 games in, and we are still win less, and getting outplayed, Arry will need to ditch his 3-5-2, go back to a 4-4-2, and start picking players on merit and not just his favourites. Its going to be a long slog this season without making life harder for ourselves! Hoddle may not have to look far for his next management role otherwise. Yesterday almost felt like a return to the Mark Hughes days, when the team looked uninterested and clueless!
0


madjacksdad68 added 12:00 - Aug 27

Given the opposition, I think Swansea could have dominated more but that would be over critical as they did control the game for long periods. Missed a few opportunities when in attack two occasions of note coming in the first half when Tiendalli drifted off side to collect a pass from Dyer, when in a strong attacking position. Stand out players on the night, for me, were Tom Carroll, who worked hard and intelligently to link play and Kyle Bartley who covered well and on one occasions in particular intervened Ashley Williams like, when opponent beat Richards coming into the box from the right, in the second half. Towards the end Bony missed a few chances, that we have become accustomed to him taking, but in all a satisfactory night and role on the next round draw.
0


Oldjack added 18:50 - Aug 27

YOU CANT ASK FOR ANY-MORE AFTER MAKING WHOLESALE CHANGES
0


Recoilboss added 09:23 - Aug 28

Carefully orchestrated defeat with the added design of completely ostracising those that are suspect in attitude & talent, those that are not up to the premier league as it is fought in this day & age. Of course, the Spurs offenders could have been made to repent, but we really want out of this Milk Cup (or whatever it’s called these days) don’t we. Better to destroy the confidence of the rest in the process before it’s too late.

That is not to excuse the inexplicable missing man-management, fitness levels, preparation and tea-cups from our ‘boss’. Excuse my sarcasm but why are we surprised to see R’s struggling - didn’t we watch Harry at work for most of last season? Under the current set-up, 6 wins in the big boys league this season will be a surprise. Strap yourselves in.
2


romfordranger added 22:45 - Aug 28

Our Arry knows what he is doing, these plans and strategies and forward thinking is for the younger managers. Old Arry knows if you cobble some players together it will come good eventually. Sod having a clear vision on the right team, formation, and set pieces, leave that for the youngsters. Just need more players, chuck a few more players into the mix, not sure yet what position we play them, whether they are any better than what we have, but good old Tone will back him. Warnock had a plan, a basic one, not sophisticated, but at least had some idea of his best team and how they would play. old Arry never looks any further forward than the next game, the players look unfit, unorganised, and de-motivated. Something has gone badly wrong, and I predict our points tally won't be in could figures by Christmas, call me a pessimist, but I predict a disaster this season, come on Glenn, sit down with the old boy and see if he has thought it all through, is there a cunning plan!!
0


Olliewog added 17:46 - Aug 30

2nd half southampton were dominant
0


Royboy48 added 19:10 - Aug 30

Match rating 8 because of its importance and the 3 points

Sunderland desperately wanted something from this game

We have to learn how to take control of games, last 10 mins was like a Wembley replay.

Fer has to be fit enough for 95 mins.
1


Phil_S added 19:21 - Aug 30

One of our most complete performances in the Premier League - clinical and brilliant finishing and top quality performances all round
0


pedrodale added 19:28 - Aug 30

Both teams pass the ball well we were decent except for a 10 minute spell
0


smegma added 19:59 - Aug 30

Great all round performance from the whole team. Fer and Mutch stepped up to the plate at last and showed why we bought them. The dynamic duo of Hoilett and Phillips running at their defence had them in sixes and sevens at times and Barton and Mutch ran the middle of the park. Isla looked liked he enjoyed himself although his tendency to bomb forward at any given opportunity sometimes left a gap at the back but he seemed to calm down after an hour. The BEAST that is Caulker and his sidekick Rio did a great job stemming the tide and Clint Hill gave everything as usual. A clean was a very welcome return on the effort put in by every one of them. No longer bottom and our next game is against a side below us so onwards and upwards !!
0


corkcitysaint added 20:15 - Aug 30

Did we just come back from losing to win a match?? We reacted positively from going a goal down which was encouraging. Played much better with a higher tempo 2nd half. Hammers didn't have a sniff. Good goal from Pelle. Was unlucky to have one ruled offside earlier. Should do a lot for his confidence. Forster made a great save from Vaz Te at close range. Thumbs up to the travelling support too.

Overall, a good win against a Hammers side that admittedly lacked a few regulars. Nice to get one over Big Sam at last. Maybe he should stick to the long ball.. Pity there is now the international break as it may lead to a loss of momentum for us. Still, 3 points woohoo!

P.S did anybody think Morgans celebrations were a bit muted??
0


halftimeorange added 20:44 - Aug 30

I agree that Morgan's first goal barely raised a smile to his lips but he did seem to enjoy the second and his subsequent comments on Sky Sports (which I obviously didn't see but have subsequently read) suggests that he's here for this season at least.
Other points to note - Graziano Pelle looked a completely different player to the one who faced WBA. Steven Davies seems to be back to his energetic best. It was a bit difficult to rate our defence as they had very little to do. Bertrand looks to fit in well with Tadic. How Clyne missed out on an England place is beyond me.
The Hammers went from poor to bad to absolutely clueless. I doubt that such a heartless second half performance has ever been seen before at the Boleyn. Allardyce won't let them get away with that. Extra training tomorrow.
On the downside, just like at Millwall midweek, although we played well up to their penalty area, in the first half we generally looked as though a goal was beyond us. We must start games as we finished today.
Shane Long is unfortunate in being played out of position. He harried and was a nuisance to West Ham but we are not likely to see him at his best until he plays alongside Pelle and we buy or loan a winger. Redmond provided an assist today. We have the money. It's a no-brainer.
0


Yorkshire_Dale added 21:25 - Aug 30

Bringing on those two useless strikers after the Bantams scored was like throwing the towel in!

Well done Fenelon for trying though.
1


tsbains64 added 21:55 - Aug 30

Great performance from the Rss. Solid at the back and contolling in the middle.Upfront we still look a bit bare but Austin did well
We should an dcould have won this more easily but 1-nil will do for now
Can see Zamora playing a influential role comming on late-made a difference
Good to see the crowd and players paying tribute to Ale
Finally sad to see Adel not aknowledge the fans at the end......a poor farewell to this once fine star
0


kingfisher added 22:02 - Aug 30

0


hirstian added 22:17 - Aug 30

For me the difference was Millwall looked as though they know what they were doing, particularly in the final third - neat triangles, one touches, confidence....

We were lightweight in midfield and then over anxious when we pushed forward. Also no-one prepared to run at the defence and shoot a al Tom Ince....

Ranger was good, Miller didn't want to be there. Fonz doesn't work on the wing...

0


BoondockSaint added 23:46 - Aug 30

Yeah, first thing I noted-would it kill Morgan to be happy he scored? (Although that first one looked like Pelle got his head to it) I mean, OK he's mad at the club, but the players are his teammates, most of whom he's marched up the leagues with! If nothing else, the more goals, the more money he'll make when he goes to a team with "ambition"- you know, like Sunderland!
Anyway: Beat Sam for a change. Their only goal was a deflection. Pelle hopefully on a roll. Gaston got some playing time. Three important points in the bag. Well done!

Only minor quibble-when the ball comes out of the box, fire it back in! It seems, like last year, that Saints hold it, and allow the opposition to set themselves up. Keep the pressure on them-they'll make mistakes!
1


BoondockSaint added 23:46 - Aug 30

Yeah, first thing I noted-would it kill Morgan to be happy he scored? (Although that first one looked like Pelle got his head to it) I mean, OK he's mad at the club, but the players are his teammates, most of whom he's marched up the leagues with! If nothing else, the more goals, the more money he'll make when he goes to a team with "ambition"- you know, like Sunderland!
Anyway: Beat Sam for a change. Their only goal was a deflection. Pelle hopefully on a roll. Gaston got some playing time. Three important points in the bag. Well done!

Only minor quibble-when the ball comes out of the box, fire it back in! It seems, like last year, that Saints hold it, and allow the opposition to set themselves up. Keep the pressure on them-they'll make mistakes!
0


irememberivor added 08:11 - Aug 31

Our best overall performance for quite sometime. Terrific from everyone
0


aceofthebase added 08:38 - Aug 31

This was a performance that was equal or not better than anything seen last season so who needs Fatty Shaw, Self glorified lallana and slimey Lovren or the 'one game' tactic that was the POX. Pelle now looks like he can be the equal of SRL. Tadic plays with more penetration than Lallana and Bertrand puts over better crosses than shaw. RK shows that he has the experience to turn a game around.
This is going to be a good season for the saints.
1


WestSussexSaint added 10:29 - Aug 31

Schneiderlin - the new Gerrard or Lampard?
1


gpsgm added 11:41 - Aug 31

2nd half rating 10. Morgan would have been 11 but lost possession for their goal
0


tazzydjr added 12:47 - Aug 31

We got had an strong 20 minutes before first goal were scored by the side what look set for the Play Offs, Referee didn't know what he were doing awarded goal kick, When it were obviously an corner and Many other error's were to The Football League get these people? The substitutions were rather shocking
0


hedgeend61 added 20:51 - Aug 31

Worried for 44 mins that we would once again drop points to a poor West Ham side, and our bedwetters would be predicting relegation.

Second half bossed it, outplayed them, Forster had nothing to do. 2nd half rating 10. Important 3 points with International break next week.


Walking up the Barking Rd after game, their fans agreed, best team won
0


quickpassrotter added 20:56 - Aug 31

Made amends for the Tottenham game - and in complete contrast everyone battled away, competed and worked very hard - plus a lot of skill out there. That is what we are going to have to do. Was particularly impressed with Isla and Fer.
We played with energy and moved the ball quickly. Whilst Sunderland had a lot of possession in the second half they rarely threatened - and Green did his job when they did. A second goal would have calmed the nerves but I'll take the one nil. Was disappointed with the referee. Thought he never had a total grip on the game. Looks like we have some seriously good professionals at Prem level now - and they wanted it, important. I'm sure that we can only get better as the team comes together and plays more. Left the ground on a high and my optimism was back.
0


Phil_S added 18:06 - Sep 13

For the first twenty minutes Chelsea had no answer to our play and we could (and possibly should) have been 2 or 3 up at that stage. However, this is a side that will push for the title all the way and there is no disgrace in the result that we had. Another win next week and we can kick start another winning run. 9 points from 12, I'll take that
0


warrior87 added 18:07 - Sep 13

chelsea to strong for us
0


libertyjack22 added 18:26 - Sep 13

No disgrace losing to them, if only we could have put away those other 2 chances first half...
STID
0


aceofthebase added 18:34 - Sep 13

This is a team that will score goals in open play. corners and free kicks will add and if the referee wears specs we may get a penalty. We looked dangerous and I expect we will give the top teams a good game. Poor old Pardew, what a thankless task he has.

Southampton continue to improve under the guidance of the best Dutch manager in the Premier league.
2


LostBoys added 21:01 - Sep 13

Excellent Southampton performance
3


gpsgm added 22:28 - Sep 13

Total entertainment !
2


codge added 23:25 - Sep 13

So impressed , to finally see us attack and shoot instead of trying to pass a hundred times with no end result.Been supporting Saints since 1954 at the age of 10, I am really enjoying the Saints more and more, coyr.
0


smiffdub added 01:25 - Sep 14

Tempting to get very excited about this team right now, except for the fact that Newcastle really offered little resistance. So little, in fact, that Saints's defence hardly needed to turn up.
1


darthvader added 09:50 - Sep 14

Quality and great atmosphere . Feel good factor again who the duck is potichino ? .
Brilliant game .loved it and I took another first-timer and she is now hooked .
1


Stmike added 11:27 - Sep 14

Lets not get carried away but this could be a great season. Its fantastic to see entertaining football knowing that we can compete against any of the other teams in the league. We're a better team than last seasons.
0


winchesterbob added 11:36 - Sep 14

Saints not only creating chances but scoring goals as well!! There's a novelty...... Fab game and fab entertainment, topped off with the return of Franny Benali, truly top bloke
0


saintsade added 12:02 - Sep 14

Great game interesting to see us adapt as the game went on, credit to Koeman for that. Tadic looked creative and all the players looked comfortable on the ball. Nicest thing was the clinical finishing, something we missed last year. Onwards and upwards.
0


Bison added 13:03 - Sep 14

Very difficult to pick an out and out MOM from Forster to Pelle everyone did the job. So refreshing to see our Midfielders getting into the advanced positions , but Pelle just edges it for his work and goals.
0


progressfan added 09:22 - Sep 15

The team is improving with each game a solid performance with a better second half than the first and with a bit more composure from Nile Ranger we could have taken all 3 points.Ranger did'nt look fit yet but will only get better the more games he gets under his
belt.Peter Clarke for me was man of the match with some brilliant saving tackles and goal bound stops. The crowd got behind the team and Riga which drew a great reaction from the team, sadly however there were allot more empty seats today.
t
0


dixiedean added 09:23 - Sep 15

Traore continues to confound. Park player at Spurs, to looking like the only player with any threat going forward at OT. So he'll start v Stoke and have a shocker ?
0


quickpassrotter added 10:00 - Sep 15

Obviously a disappointing result but it was the performance that was a concern. Harry complaining that his players are not fit - well he and his staff need to get them fit and quickly. Glad that ''Hollywood'' match is out of the way - get back to it next week against Stoke.
0


progressfan added 12:29 - Sep 15

The team is improving with each game a solid performance with a better second half than the first and with a bit more composure from Nile Ranger we could have taken all 3 points.Ranger did'nt look fit yet but will only get better the more games he gets under his
belt.Peter Clarke for me was man of the match with some brilliant saving tackles and goal bound stops. The crowd got behind the team and Riga which drew a great reaction from the team, sadly however there were allot more empty seats today.
t
0


barryroch added 12:14 - Sep 17

Brilliant all round. Shame not many saw the best all round game of the season.
0


qlrken05 added 19:12 - Sep 17

sheer 100% all round quality
0


Recoilboss added 15:17 - Sep 20

Can’t help but feel that was two points lost, despite 'man of match' Nico's excellent rescue free kick. Really needed a win from this one.

What is really worrying :

Rio’s defending - looks off the pace, doesn’t tackle or track his man properly, doesn’t get up and win enough headers. It’s a continuing trend and he is becoming a liability. What has The Chief got to do to get a game?
Isla - gave the ball away far too much and in critical areas.
Austin - looking out of his depth in this league.
A lack of clear opportunities created (again) plus woeful shooting - dreadful all round (apart from one man).
2 hamstring injuries for players already carrying strains. Why were they risked & what’s going on with the fitness/conditioning at QPR?

What was encouraging :

Nico Kranjcar - outstanding.
And Fer - to an extent.

What was well out of order :

At least 3 definite penalties denied with Shawcross blatantly all over Caulker in the box.
A clear & obvious foul by Crouch for the first goal.
A USELESS, weak referee who refused to deal with any of above.

TF - better pay that fine soon.
0


MelakaRanger added 15:24 - Sep 20

Ferdinand was well poor and contributed to both their goals. He is well past his sell by date

Austin as Recoil says, seems out of his depth.

Nico was the star by far.

Shawcross created foul after blatant foil but got away with murder.

Overall. Lucky to get a point.

Continue like this and we will be back in Championship before we know it
0


WindyMiller added 17:53 - Sep 20

Couldn't get there today but have just spoken to a mate on the phone who said it was back to the wall stuff especially when they added on the 6 minutes. Said the keeper was exceptional and the who back four played well but said we lacked any sort of quality or movement in midfield and looked content to defend for much of the game. I suppose it's what you want at the moment away from home just to build confidence and get some points on the board.
0


corkcitysaint added 17:53 - Sep 20

Wow, talk about a game of 2 halves..! Swansea dominated possession in the first half and had 2 great chances. One off the bar and one off the line. Well done Plastic ! Would have been happy to escape with a point at that stage.

Sending off changed the game completely. 2nd half, naturally we dominated possession. Got a bit worried when we seemed to be too reliant on the crosses into the box. Goal came with a nice bit of interplay down the right. Good finish from Wanyama (strong toe poke..!) A bonus 3 points after a tough first 40 minutes.

Thank goodness Levy & Rodgers took the deadwood out for us in the summer :)

Roll on Arse nal.
1


DwightYorkeSuperstar added 19:49 - Sep 20

Poor from Garry. Bottled the second half.
0


dickythorpe added 20:40 - Sep 20

Ref ruined the game
-1


halftimeorange added 21:14 - Sep 20

Saints played the first half like a team which didn't know each other. Misplaced passes, poor first touches, no assuredness, lack of telling crosses. I felt sure we'd go in at the break one or two down. Then Bony got sent off. Fonte was lucky not to follow, although his second bookable offence was in the opponents penalty area. Second half all changed. We dominated. Swansea flickered but then surprisingly took Dyer off. Then their flame went out but we still weren't our ususl swaggering selves. Tajic tried to set Pelle up on a couple of occasions but the big man's control was poor. The JWP got injured and Wanyama came on. He immediately imposed himself on the game. He made the difference. Have to say Gardos looked very composed. We'll have easier games.
2


Mr_Rusty added 21:42 - Sep 20

Although I agree with the other comments, my major concern today was that in the first half we were to slow in our play and easily picked off by Stoke.
0


aceofthebase added 21:52 - Sep 20

Job done! No-one has mentioned the assured performance of Florin Gardos. He looked completely in control of his game and his position
1


Streety1996 added 23:13 - Sep 20

Great win for the Dale
1


smiffdub added 00:28 - Sep 21

Saints played unusual game in the 1st half, sitting back a lot. And then it was Swansea's turn after the sending off. They really sat back. Most teams, even a man down, would have been a shade more enterprising. They let us play around them all the second half. The goal had to come and it did, from the most unlikely source. I though Clyne was our star...both defensively and in attack. Gardos made an impression too...very composed and careful, even if not tested much.
0


perazi added 04:36 - Sep 21

A game we were fortunate to win - Swansea really bossed the first half and obviously the sending off (justified) changed the course of the match. Second half changes in midfield were key to better showing, Davis and especially Big Vic made a big difference. Special mention to both CB's who played a half each. Yoshida for taking the brunt of Bony's aggression and stood firm and Gardos who despite being under little pressure looked composed and athletic. Bertrand man-of-the-match.
0


bigrob68 added 07:03 - Sep 21

jwp needs to speed up
0


birminghamsaint added 10:28 - Sep 21

I thought too that the Ref ruined the game. I'm not sure why Yoshida was replaced at half time (injured possibly) but it would have been the right decision anyway from Koeman, as Yoshi had been booked in the first half and I reckon the Ref might have tried to even up the red cards. I think we missed Steven Davis in the first half, as our ball retention was really poor.
0


thehat added 11:11 - Sep 21


Entertaining game there are good points and bad points and today was defiantly a good point.

Unfortunately now we have gone back to a flat back four the selling of Simpson has left me scratching my head?
0


tsbains64 added 11:44 - Sep 21

Great comeback but we could have been out of it by half time. Rio does look suspect at the back and Isla needs to raise his game . Liked Nicos perfromace and the goal was one of the best Austing played hard but seems to be off the pace. Great to see Traore making his runs
If we had kept the the teams that started we could have gone on to win but loosing Barton and mutch weekend up Disappointed crowd but enjoyed the game and the comeback
0


romfordranger added 14:14 - Sep 21

Pleased with the point in the end, great free kick from Kranjcar, looks fitter than last season and carrying less timber. The defence looks very weak, Isla had a nightmare and Ferdinand looks like he should have retired last season. With these two playing we are always going to be up against it! The midfield is solid enough and we have pace, but suffer a chronic lack of striking options. The midfield are all going to need to chip in with their fair share of goals. I do think Austin has it in him to be a premier league striker, he can finish, is good in the air and has a terrific work rate. He just needs more support. No other club in the league has less strikers on their books as us, I just don't understand Redknapps logic here, or selling Simpson. I just hope Ferdinand picks up an injury and Onuoho gets reinstated to the team. As for right back, Isla really does need to sort himself out, he was woeful yesterday. Its going to be a long and painful season at times, but hopefully we can grind out enough points to finish 17th in the table, always an optimist, me!
0


SaintGeorge added 18:09 - Sep 21

"Long" time no see - I hope.
Forster
Clyne Fonte Aldi/Florian Bertrand
Vic*
DAVIS (DAVIS DAVIS DAVIS) Morgan Cork *or JWP
Tadic
Pellè

SELL SHANE LONG he's nowhere near, absolutely nowhere near

Man of the match Fabianski - unbelievable sense of positioning and safe, safe hands. Sign the fùcker now!
-2


Yorkshire_Dale added 20:20 - Sep 21

Stay away fans are missing a treat at San Spotty right now.......the Team are fantastic and well,well worthy of support.

Great game again yesterday.

Miss it at your peril!
1


Royboy48 added 21:11 - Sep 21

Sorry, Rio, nothing personal, but it's just not working

It didn't work with Ji Sung Park either

Class players playing alongside class players Rio with Vidic, Evra, Rafael etc: - Works well

Class players, especially class players past their best, alongside players of less ability - well, we all saw it for ourselves..

I don't doubt his sincerity or commitment - it's just too hard to adapt to the ordinary after years of relentless success with a world giant like Man U

Mistake repeated I'm afraid.

Agree with Recoilboss about this early injury crisis - must be something to do with training

Strange that the pre-season stars Hoilett and Onuoha can't get a start. Remind me who signed them?

Barton redemption has been the highlight of the last 2 seasons - remind me who signed him?

Simpson sold a week before we ditch 3-5-2 - why?

Last minute trolley dash again - Harry admits it. None of them fit, two can't speak a word of English.

4 transfer windows; still no continuity, still no stability and still no maturity; only 4 Wembley heroes on the pitch yesterday....

Trying to keep the faith in the face of bewildering signings, baffling selections, weekly formation changes and knee jerk substitutions

Other than that, it's fine.




0


warrior87 added 18:11 - Sep 27

our problem at the moment is we are not scoring enough goals eight in six games ,need to concentrate on getting goals
0


Consigliere added 18:16 - Sep 27

Well I hate to say "told you so" but Ca Plane Pour Moi! (See last post about Plastic Bertrand). What a little gem this player has turned out to be. However man of the match for me was the manager. First half Saints struggled to break down the offside trap, but he changed the formation and an exciting second half followed. After the second goal we seemed pretty composed but let no-one tell you this was a easy. To their credit QPR dug in and played well in the second half. This is the sort of game we would have lost last year though not making changes when they were needed.
4


gpsgm added 19:38 - Sep 27

A hard fought victory against a decent looking QPR. Stand out goals from Bertrand and Pelle. I can't believe how quickly these guys have become a team that fights for each other. Bertrand outstanding, Pelle always contributes even when he isn't scoring September's goal of the month and Mane is going to provide a lot of entertainment for us this season, he just loves to run at defences. We missed Victor when he went off and I was worried they were going to breach our defence once the man-mountain wasn't there. Shane Long needs a goal to boost his confidence. It won't be long.
1


halftimeorange added 20:02 - Sep 27

Scrappy for much of the first half and we stuttered after the injury to Sandro which disrupted the play for six minutes. Tadic hit the post and Schneiderlin should have scored but missed from a close-range angle. QPR tried to play but weren't a threat until after we scored. Then we were opened up straight through the middle and Austin scored as he usually does against Saints. Pelle's overhead kick was spectacular but he was much more than that with some lovely lay-offs and he held the ball up well. I thought this was his best performance for us. QPR tried even harder and Hoilett and Zamora caused us a lot of problems after Wanyama had surprisingly been taken off for a less than convincing Cork. Targett came on and plugged some awful gaps that were left by both Bertrand and Mane, who is a livewire but isn't a tackler on this showing. Mane reminded me of Papa Weigo. Very nippy but unable to look directly across the pitch to check whether he's onside. Long came on for Mane and gave QPR a lot more to think about. A win but not the most convincing win.
-2


winchesterbob added 20:21 - Sep 27

Harry parked the bus and the game was a struggle, especially against Clattenburge who was determined to give us nothing. Sadio Mane struggled with the high line but showed loads of promise. Wanyam had a commanding game and Bertrand looked good all match. Long changed the game when he came on and Pelle scores again. 3 points and still second in the BPL whats not to like.
0


Recoilboss added 20:37 - Sep 27

A nothing special performance from Southampton proved good enough to collect, deservedly I guess, all three points.

After the comedy festival week at Loftus Road (celebration injuries, cheesegate, clapped out motors and the like), those that are all too familiar with the law of sod (me) fully expected a complete surprise away win today. But nope - not even Sod could save us. There were one or two positives: we didn't lose 4-0, Troare looked quite energised & focused (despite the daily Big Macs & Fries), Niko didn't get injured but couldn’t quite match last week despite another exquisite free kick which might have rewarded us again with an underserved point if honest. Charlie’s excellent goal out of the blue gave us at least 2 minutes of blissful joy, while Karl Henry did a reasonable job again after he sub’d for sick note Sandro (head injury this time but there’s a pattern emerging).

However, still worrying, in order of concern, is the Chilean connection. Isla looked suspect again and Vargas - well, I haven’t worked out what he actually does yet apart from peddling backwards a lot and getting caught in the process. Rio continued his underwhelming season - a really half-hearted clearance started the panic which led to Saints first goal for example. Fer, who does have some undoubted skill is currently flattering to deceive with his one step-over trick, looking off the pace when it really counts. Philips - falls overs a lot as he gets the ball caught under his feet before considering doing anything significant with it. Similarly, Hoillet, on as sub, produced a display very reminiscent of many of last season's cul-de-sac outings. You know the one: He collects the ball… "promising… promising… where’s he going?… shit…"

The overriding thing I noticed, apart from the usual lack of pace & spark when attacking, is that the players just don't seem to care much when we lose. A resigned shrug, some handshakes. No recriminations or heated on-pitch debates. No apparent frustration - just back to the coach, the Xbox on and FIFA 15 underway. Virtual escape replaces virtually escaped… with a point.

Talking of the law of sod, comedy week also included our resident gobshite philosopher who, of course, put the mockers on the immediate future by slagging another pro again (from the comfort of his sofa) who possesses infinitely more talent than his Lordship. Law of sod (which failed us today) therefore says that this childish, transparent & calculated provocation will almost certainly result in a wonder goal from Balotelli in our upcoming Liverpool fixture. Thanks. New reformed Barton - proving once again that you can take the boy out of the gutter, but you can’t take the gutter out of the boy.
0


irememberivor added 11:48 - Sep 28

For the second league match running we have been harshly treated by the ref. Routledge fully deserved a penalty decision and Rangel`s second yellow was very harsh. One thing the game showed is that we have to start with Bony upfront. He gives us so much more than Gomis.
0


Bobtheretiredbroker added 11:40 - Oct 4

Tremendous team performance the like of which we have not seen since Holloway left. Even more impressive if you consider that Lewis, Clarke, Cubero, Orlandi all absent and Joan Oriol substituted in first 15 minutes.
Of course, we should not get too carried away by one win (out of eleven) but we are improving match by match and it is abundantly clear that the players, coaches and manager are really up for it now.
Best moment of the night for me ? Jose Riga's expression at the final whistle, closely followed by his post match interview. Never heard him speak so eloquently or for so long.
Last night might turn out to be the high point of a wretched season, who knows, but for two hours I was once again proud to be a Seasider after all the s**t we have had to take from the rest of the football world in recent months.
1


irisaln added 19:25 - Oct 4

A free header from a corner gave Barnsley the lead. Dale then missed three good chances to score but the shots were blocked by a resolute defense. Vincenti blasted the ball high over the bar when in a good position to score. Barnsley also had a couple of good breakaway chances to score as Dale pushed forward in numbers leaving gaps at the back.
The second half saw Dale have more of the possession but fail to breakdown the Barnsley packed defense.
A great run by Barnsley's Cole saw him brought down in the box and the resultant penalty saved superbly by the Dale loan keeper Logan. It was a good contest with the hard and quick tackling of the Barnsley team proving too much for the more lightweight Dale side.
1


tazzydjr added 22:02 - Oct 4

It felt like a repeat of posh at home apart from Barnsley's Ross Turnbull being the most unprofessional time-wasting keeper, I've ever seen aswell as another set of very incapable official's being one sided, we couldn't score some the easiest chance's we had this match. Hopefully it's just a bad at the office
0


Yorkshire_Dale added 22:55 - Oct 4

Barnsley were nowt special,trouble was neither were we........if you are chasing a game and have only Bunney and Andrew to bring on as Subs,then you know we are dooooomed.

Hopefully,a better show on Tuesday?
0


halftimeorange added 20:15 - Oct 5

This game didn't live up to its billing as a potential classic. Saints seemed somewhat out of sorts. Adebayor tormented our defence every time he had the ball. Clyne and fonte were jointly at fault for the cross resulting in the goal. Tadic was largely ineffective and couldn't get his crosses working. Pelle had nothing to feed off. Mane should have scored once, possibly twice. Forster wasn't his usual safe pair of hands. Sadly, Spurs seemed to want it more than us and, on this showing, we still won't beat any of the top six. Also, Koeman is in danger of upsetting the fans by his ill-advised comments regarding Pochettino's welcome. A most unsatisfactory and disappointing outing. We do, however, have a fairly easy run until December, at least on paper.
1


quickpassrotter added 23:58 - Oct 5

Nothing original to say. We were very poor. Did not compete. Can't defend. Never really look like scoring. I have no idea what our game plan is and what our tactics are. Also, can't see how the current management team can possibly turn this around. My only fear is - the various names that have been banded around that just might come in as potential new Manager. Does not fill me with confidence.
2


perazi added 03:33 - Oct 6

It looked as though we were playing the Saints of last season - Spurs harried and pressed us for most of the game and we struggled with the intensity of the game. Second half better with Wanyama and Bertrand the pick. Not a disaster but something of a reality check.
0


WestSussexSaint added 07:34 - Oct 6

Wasn't the worst performance in the world but we were lacking in one or two areas and that made the difference. Wanyama reapeatedly seemed to lose Ericcson which ultimately led to the goal. Thought Mane was very bright in attack but really should have scored. Apart from that not much to choose between the sides. Small things make the difference at the top.
0


SterlingArcher added 11:17 - Oct 6

0


whittocksRs added 12:03 - Oct 6

Terrible game made excruciating by Rangers.
0


probbo added 15:25 - Oct 6

It looked like a training session for West Ham, they hardly seemed to break sweat and once ahead never looked like losing. And more pathetic excuses afterwards from Redknapp about players not being fit.
0


romfordranger added 22:12 - Oct 6

The only consolation for me was that I didn't pay on to attend the game, but had a free ticket through the kindness of a West Ham mate. I had access to the legends lounge, met Phil Parkes, and watched the game from a padded seat right on the halfway line. That's where the enjoyment ended! The game itself was predictable as a typical QPR away performance under Arry, clueless, spineless, and embarrassing. West Ham played with a real sense of purpose, made good use of the flanks, and have real pace up front. We have no goal threat, too slow in percession, and don't play as a team. Once we went two down, heads dropped and old Arry looked more bored than angry. Clearly unable to motivate the players anymore, even Fernandez can't keep failing to see the obvious, we badly need a change in team manager. If he ran his airline like he runs his football club, he would be bankrupt by now! How the hell can Fernandez talk of a long term plan with a manager who will be 70 next birthday. If Redknapp stays in charge it will be one long painful season and certain relegation, Fernandez must make the obvious decision now before its too late!
1


tazzydjr added 13:44 - Oct 8

The match seemed one sided, Walsall had done their homework and Fully deserved to be in the Football League Trophy Area Quarter Final.
0


geraldo added 16:55 - Oct 9

A repeat of Barnsley game except a worse performance. The experiment of playing without a recognised striker works away but not at home. Out of 8 home games we have scored in only 3.
Don't understand why Lunt didn't get a game as Cannon was an embarrassment.
0


Bulgarian added 17:20 - Oct 18

Player ratings are flattering to Saints. Despite this astonishing and record breaking win, Saints won in this fashion because Sunderland were absent from the South Coast for the whole afternoon after the 12th minute. This fact does not diminish our achievement, but it's not helping the realistic evaluation of our players.
What a proud moment to be a Saint today!
Instead of boasting the fantastic team we have, let's concentrate on the next game and wish for other 3 points.
0


frannybill added 17:26 - Oct 18

What a toothless display!! Keith, you need to admit that Andrew is a mistake, confine him to the reserves, and try Muldoon. Hendo could have played all day and never scored!!
-2


Consigliere added 18:41 - Oct 18

So, after the most exciting afternoon any of us can remember at St Marys, time for a bit of calm reflection.

That our new stars turned up and performed well there can be no doubt. That Sunderland gave up in the second half there can also be no doubt (though they were a potent threat in the first half). That we had the rub of the green with the own goals is also true (though you make your own luck and they were all forced errors).

What was really striking however is how good our old players Shniederlin, Fonte, Clyne, Davis and Cork have become. Each in their own way has been a revelation. They have grown in confidence, shown skills I would never have believed they had and played with a determination and cohesion that was unthinkable a year ago. Clyne in particular must surely be the player of the season and why he is not a regular for England is a complete mystery to anyone who is seriously interested in the game. He is like an having extra striker in the team.

Today's performance is a lesson to everyone else in the premiership about team performance and the potential to shine when those around you are prepared to make the same effort.
3


WestSussexSaint added 18:52 - Oct 18

Enjoy the win tonight lads. But tomorrow star to focus on Stoke.
1


corkcitysaint added 20:17 - Oct 18

Wow, what a game! 15 mins are so in I was thinking a point would be a good result..! Sunderland dominated. But what an opening goal. A striker would be proud of that. Penalty anyone?? I might be biased but he did lose control of the ball before jumping over Forster ... A total capitulation by Sunderland though.

I can see teams coming to st. Mary's from now on being very hard to breakdown after this result.

One slight worry I have is I'm surprised that Forster is a bit "flappy" when it comes to crosses. Also, he seems to spill the ball a bit also. Maybe I'm being over critical on the guy.

And so our focus switches to the next game and 3 points hopefully. Onwards and upwards.
1


birminghamsaint added 21:18 - Oct 18

Well we cruised into a 3 goal lead in the first half, without playing well at all and Sunderland did not look that bad.. I thought we played well in the second half but difficult to say how much of that was down to Sunderland giving up. A mention for Shane Long today as he seemed to win everything in the air today - what a leap he has! Even without scoring he was a constant nuisance to Sunderland. At the end of the game we had 3 Africans on the pitch - probably a first for Saints?
0


aceofthebase added 23:52 - Oct 18

A poor start to the game but who would have guessed the outcome. I love this team.
0


gpsgm added 00:15 - Oct 19

The difficult thing with a big win like this is every goal you score makes the opposition appear more crap so everyone says "but Sunderland were awful". But look at their results, they haven't been this awful before, we made them this bad because we played so well. We just kept scoring until their heads dropped ... and then scored some more.
1


halftimeorange added 10:20 - Oct 19

Before we get carried away it should be noted that we did not start well but, Koeman has picked up on that. We did not start well against either QPR or Spurs so, despite this overwhelming win, it is something that has to be addressed before we meet the 'elite' clubs in December. Pelle certainly should have scored one more, perhaps two but, after our second goal it would be churlish to criticise anything. Should Forster have been sent off - well, that's difficult to say. Referee Mariner got a lot wrong (especially O'Shea's constant holding down of Pelle which he never penalised) but, I personally think that Fletcher jumped into Forster. Forster had stopped so Mariner was right. For Sunderland only Fletcher and Larsson performed, the rest were hapless. A couple of other points - it was good to see Koeman urge our players on to more goals when we were 6-0 up and, also, Mayuka beating the ground in annoyance after he'd missed a half-chance. I am relieved that our team appears to have got through this game unscathed against what is undoubtedly the dirtiest side in the Premier League. Man of the match - Tadic.
0


blackvincent added 11:41 - Oct 19

Very frustrating all around. Not our day but we do need to capitalise on such dominance and certainly so many clear chances. Surprised to see Rose play though he played very well but feel Hery does bring an energy and imagination which we could have done with second half in particular. Sometimes seem hesitant when chances occur rather than being decisive. Similar with some mistakes at the back though we were good today in that department, you could say Bennet should have cleared decisively. Andrew isn't a Dale player and contributes little in my view to the way we play at our best, in fact he disrupts it.
Understand why the ref was booed as I sat in the main stand and saw him give two throws the wrong way one after the other right in front of me, the second of which led directly to the attack where they scored. Lines man on Wilbutts side also made mistakes, one howler when Hendo was released down the left in dangerous position. Ref let himself down with one or two other odd decisions which then of course get amplified so do understand frustration with him. Can't blame the ref though, should have taken chances!
2


geraldo added 15:47 - Oct 19

Very frustrating, and we could write it off as "unlucky", however this is not the first time we have struggled to score at home.The problem is that we are relying on midfield players to be strikers and it isn't working.Away from home it is a different story as we can play on the break.
With a half decent striker we could have had six - when will KH accept this and get somebody in?
0


highlandbill added 09:54 - Oct 20

Out of my seat more times than all 3 previous home games. Exciting football,real fight from our team,manager off his arse. But...a sad sad end..went home in shock.
0


Geoff78 added 10:24 - Oct 20

Fabulous performance especially compared to recent dross. Whole term worked hard, no obvious weak links, although Phillips disappointed when he came on. Thought Sandro MoM, with Bobby not far behind. Sandro's energy, tackling and commitment terrific to see, best of all when helping out Caulks when caught 1 on 1 against Gerrard. Unsurprisingly, Bobby faded markedly in 2nd half and could have been substituted earlier. Terrific cameo from Vargas and good to see his potential - possibly a threat to Charlie's place. Not totally convinced by Leroy although this was his best match. Seems too easily dispossessed and misplaces too many passes and, of course, missed a sitter. Needs a bit more devil about him. And a word for Karl Henry who has done much better in last few matches than I feared, tackled well, distribution has been good and tracked Liverpool runners.

But Liverpool were poor all over the pitch. Poor old Balotelli had a 'mare.

Key questions are can we repeat against Villa and maintain against Man City? And is Vargas the answer to our goal scoring problems? Mustn't be too down hearted. COYRS!!
0


dixiedean added 10:38 - Oct 20

the feeling at the end was on a par to feeling disembowelled after the Man U game all those years ago which Clive often refers to, when the ref let the game run on for 2 hours until they scored. Hopefully this season won't end up the same way as that one.
0


enfieldargh added 13:18 - Oct 20

Exciting game with a kick in the teeth climax.

Things like this happen in football.

Don't be down hearted, hope the players keep the momentum, push on and learn from their mistakes. Some great performances and again we are hampered by significant injuries. Every player gave their all. Liverpool were very poor and we were punished for not taking our chances in the first half.

Derby fans will be rubbing their hands with glee....what goes around, comes around
1


romfordranger added 21:26 - Oct 20

At last Redknapp finally awoke from his slumber, perhaps finally realising his job is on the line, and he has taken Fernandes for a mug long enough! When the manager finally shows that perhaps he does care, the team responded and we saw some rare passion and an exciting game. Was it enough to save him from the sack? No, not in my opinion. His premier league record for us is woeful, 5 wins, 10 draws and 18 defeats. It is a cruel game, but Redknapp bought the players, this is his team, and they are simply just not good enough. Players like Fer and Caulker got in the losing habit last season, Sandro can't last a full game, and striking options are thin on the ground. Surely Redknappp 's time is finally up, he can take his place in the Sky studios, and someone can try and salvage something from this awful mess and get the team organised and playing with some pride on a regular basis.
1


Consigliere added 19:52 - Oct 25

This was never going to be another eight goal thriller (although our friends along the road fulfilled that south coast tradition) but in many ways it was a more satisfying game because it showed that we can break down a very well-organised and athletic team. Notwithstanding there was only one goal in the first half I thought that the Saints were actually playing better than there were against Sunderland in the first half last week, and carried more of a goal threat. We were unlucky not to have been two up by the time the whistle blew for the break and but for a very smart save from their goalkeeper we would have been.

An old habit reared its ugly head for the first part of the second period, with our players not keeping their attention nor playing to their best, but a good decision by the manager to bring on the force of nature that is VW seemed to settle the team and a second goal seemed likely. As the game wore on though the chances of an equaliser loomed large and the nervousness of the crowd seemed to transmit itself to the players. Fortunately, Tadic and Mane continued to keep the Stoke defence on their toes and both looked exhausted by the end.

I won't pretend we weren't all grateful for the full whistle but it never really felt that this was a game we were going to lose. So, to all of you who feel a bit disappointed, the message is that this was in many ways a more impressive result than last week's. Anyone can win against a team that decides to lie down and die. The mark of a really good team working together is one that grinds out a result against a determined and aggressive opponent. For that we must be truly pleased this evening. It won't make the first game on MOTD but hell - who wouldn't trade the indifference of the broadcaster for second in the league!
3


Winchsaint added 20:01 - Oct 25

So if last week was a knockout blow this would have been won on points although by a comfortable enough margin. We created a hatful of chances in the first half hitting the bar and the post and forcing some smart saves from Begovic who was by far their best player. However second half Stoke Rugby team became more physical and slowed the game down repeatedly which frustrated us and the game went a bit flat. Pelle didn't have one of his best games and Tadic though excellent and full of tricks for 60 mins looked knackered by the end. Not sure why we only made two subs as he could really have done with a rest especially if he starts on Tuesday. Great support from the fans in particular "you're only here for the weather" to the just over half full away end. Not the most inspiring afternoon of football but an ultimately satisfying one nonetheless.
1


LostBoys added 21:06 - Oct 25

Stoke were just on a damage limitation exercise - not interested in playing football
1


aceofthebase added 07:30 - Oct 26

Perhaps Gardos should have been in the starting line-up. Crouch always won the high ball and often Stoke won the second ball. A very tall defender like Gardos ,who is also a fine player may have been the answer, but we won so what the heck
0


Bobtheretiredbroker added 08:41 - Oct 26

Nothing to say about the first half other than it was very poor. Their opening goal came when Obita lost his marker, Delfouneso, from a throw in and from his cross, Murray's header somehow got away from Lewis.
The second half improvement, such as it was, was entirely due to the arrival of Ranger, who looked sharp and has a better first touch than anyone in our squad. For 15/20 minutes there was hope that we could rescue a point against a Reading side out of form and short on confidence. Even Delfouneso raised his game, but the few chances we did create fell to the wrong men, with Oriol and Clarke firing inches wide and Clarke and Lundstram failing to make any meaningful contact. I did not really see their second, but got the impression that Lewis could have done better, and the third was a clear penalty committed out of frustration by a player who seconds earlier had fluffed his lines in their box.
Ranger certainly made a difference. Surely he must start alongside Miller against Ipswich. Almost anyone could have gone off at half time to make way, and Zoko was no worse than many others. The decision to play arguably our most effective player Perkins at left back makes no sense to me, and even less to keep him there after he was booked. What message does this send to Dielna,who spent his afternoon on the bench ? I don't see what Lundstram or Mendy bring to the party and Delfouneso is not the promising England Under 21 international of two years ago. There is just a lack of quality throughout the squad.
After Cardiff, I thought we could get out of this, but now I can't find three teams to finish below us.
0


ericofarabia added 13:37 - Oct 26

I thougt Pelle was superb all over the pitch, except for his finishing. Even then, he has hit the woodwork twice. How he got to that header beween 2 Stoke defenders was just brilliant, but then missed the target with an easier heade. Some of the long range efforts were wayard, maybe he was too tired to run any further forward, having run himself into the ground, always being available as an outlet from midfield, and then having received the ball shielded it superbly well and some of his passing was top notch. Wouldn't be surprised if he gets a breather on Weds. Fonte and Morgan looked a bit jaded 2nd half and were quite sloppy in possession several times. Another 2 to have a rest maybe? Long, Gardos and Big Vic covering ain't too shabby at all.
What a masterclass Substitution bringing on Big Vic was.
0


Poolman added 22:05 - Oct 26

Decent report from Bob
0


Phildo added 12:04 - Oct 28

A poor start before the hoops began to wake up to the fact that Villa - Sanchez excepted - were a very poor team and getting amongst them might well result in a victory. Honourable mention for Austin who is some ways was not having a good game - but he kept plugging and two fine finishes followed.

Unfortunately i missed 15 minute of the second half as my eyes were obscured by tears of laughter over the fat bloke in the front of the Villa supporters -1 Losing his rag at the ribbing 2. being assaulted by his missus 3. his missus being removed 4. Oops she left her bag for him to take 5 his eventual departure. I have been a moaning git about the Rs this season - hands up - but that 15 minutes of hilarity enjoyed with my 12 year old son restored me and reminded me why i usually enjoy going to a game at loftus road.
0


Winchsaint added 09:36 - Oct 30

Pelle gets 10 for celebrating with the fans!
1


Consigliere added 18:30 - Nov 1

It is quite hard to comment on this game having only watched it on a pretty jerky dodgy website (albeit with Dutch commentary which was great fun to listen to - in so far as I could understand it they seemed to really like the Saints) but for what its worth I thought that the team looked pretty comfortable for most of the game and for some lengthy periods, especially in the second half, were playing some very silky football. The most reliable account is probably in the Telegraph (they don't hate us unlike the Grauniad and the BBC) and their reporter through that Saints were good for the win and that it was a well-deserved result.

I would be very interested in hearing what those actually at the match thought.

One thing is for sure - the only crowd noise on the Dutch feed was from the Saints fans!
0


Streety1996 added 18:39 - Nov 1

Great game, up to fourth
0


corkcitysaint added 18:45 - Nov 1

Also had p poor streaming but at least it was English commentary. ! Missed the goal… Did manage to see replays though. Great control by Vic. Many players get a rush of blood in a situation like that. Angle from behind the goal really shows the spin on the ball.

Overall, another grind out win but Hull never really had a sniff to be fair. Again, we looked solid at the back and more in control then against Stoke. Gave Hull more possession than most teams but I assume that was the tactic to try to draw then out and catch them on the counter. Pity Mane missed a sitter. Like the Spuds game. Maybe he's better outside the 6 yard box..

Hull's tactic seemed to be to put pressure down our left side in the first half as that kept Tadic out of the game , came off with 15 or so minutes to go. Not his best match. I hope he's not injured from the rake down the heel by Diame who wasn't even booked.

A good win and a deserved 3 points. More of a solid defensive display this one rather than the usual attacking display. Signs of a well rounded side.

Well done to the 1500 or so fans who made the trip and were in good voice!

We march on!!
0


Yorkshire_Dale added 19:53 - Nov 1

Caught the train from Bradford which bizarrely filled up with PNE fans in Hebden Bridge (came in on the Blackpool Line and changed)......it was heaving. To a man they were saying what 3 easy points were theirs, and 3-0 scoreline was suggested.........but oh how they were wrong!.....We walloped 'em good.


Oh and Whitey is right.....Scott Wiseman is indeed crap. Nightmares tonight!

And Garners has just fallen out of O'Connells pocket.
4


rochdaleest1907 added 00:33 - Nov 2

Exceptional performance from a really together team. Think big, Dream the dream and let them get on with realising the dream. AllHailTheMightyDivision1Dale!⚽️❤️👍
0


Harbour added 09:35 - Nov 2

great team performance all 11 worked their socks off for whole 90 minutes, limited oppo to very few chances...class goal from charlie nothing green could about their first..hard to see foul for pen from lower shed but seeing back on mod...seemed harsh oscar jumped into vargas and then fell over...great support from us outsang their lot by a mile....seems jose agreed with us is this a library!....standing ovation from us well deserved if we perform like this consistently we have good chance of staying up...special mention dunn and greeno
0


irememberivor added 12:13 - Nov 2

Swans should have got a penalty, and Alcaraz sent off for a blatant hand ball. If that had been the case then we could should have won at least 1 nil, because, for all their possession, Everton never really tested Fabianski who had another really solid game. Our defence (particularly Williams and Fernandez) was immense and coped superbly against those tricky strikers Eto`o and Lukaku
0


romfordranger added 13:38 - Nov 2

Much better over the last 3 games, they now seem to have a system and a plan, and the players are showing some fight. A much better team since Suk Young came in at left back, and Dunne replacing Ferdinand. Austin has found some good form and his confidence must be high. Not sure once Barton and Mutch are back whether it will improve the team. Henry has surprised me, really didn't think he could perform at this level but not looking out of place. Just relieved we didn't get stuffed yesterday, and unlikely to get anything out of the Man city game. Just need to make sure we don't drop points from the likes of Leicester, WBA, Burnley, and Palace and scrap out of the bottom 3. It is going to be a long and tough season but certainly feeling more hopeful after the last 3 games. Greeno was great yesterday, on top form and kept us in the game.
0


tazzydjr added 14:39 - Nov 2

After first goal had went in it were game over for our PNE friend's they were terrible i dunno how they are favorites for Promotion, Conrad Logan were class fully deserved 10/10, Matty Done is still on fire scoring goals, Thankful for Blackburn sending us Jack O'Connell hope it gets made permanent

My Man of the Match would be Matty Done all day long
0


birminghamsaint added 09:47 - Nov 3

Hull was a great day out and I can only compliment the Hull fans for their friendliness before and after the game. As for the game itself, I’ve never seen a game where our keeper had so little to do!
I thought Hull were a good side and despite the above remarks about not testing our keeper, they did look in the first half of being capable of getting back into the game but just lacked the final through ball. Second half however was a defensive master class from Saints in defending from the front, as Hull were closed down completely as an attacking threat.
Steven Davis seems to have upped his game from being a 7/8 every week to being an even more consistent 8/9 in recent matches, but everybody else also worked hard with Shane Long being unlucky not to get on the score sheet from 2 good chances. Toby Alderweireld had a great game at the back and just made it look so easy. The Saints fans were also in good voice for most of the match, after Victor had silenced the locals in the 3rd minute.
0


forallthesaints added 12:26 - Nov 3

Great atmosphere created by the Saints fans, especially the 15 minutes of Oh, When the Saints at the end of the first half.
As for the game - we started a little slowly, a couple of minutes of passing between the back four and Forster then Wanyama's sublime finish woke Hull up. Hull looked good and strong in the first half with Diame and Ben Arfa making some good runs and crosses. They looked dangerous until they got near the area when the Saints defence snuffed everything out with hardly any moments of panic.
Second half we created a lot more and should have had another couple of goals at least. Mane's miss was incredible, Pelle came close and Steve Davis should have hit the target in the last seconds but blasted over.
Another blood pressure increasing 1-0 but it's very telling that Forster had one very easy save to make and no crosses to deal with. Six clean sheets out of 10 EPL games - haven't seen many pundits talk about that.
A good day out - especially as I was staying with family in Yorkshire so had a lie-in as well on matchday!
0


Bobtheretiredbroker added 15:15 - Nov 6

Pleasantly surprised at the inadequacies in the Fulham defence which gifted us two goals, but we have not taken similar chances in previous games so well done Messrs Miller and Murphy. We could have gone 3-0 up, had Miller not scuffed a good chance straight a the 'keeper. The turning point was obviously McMahon's dismissal, which has already been covered ad nauseam in previous posts on various sites. Suffice to say, he should forfeit the captaincy in favour of Peter Clarke, who is a leader on the pitch.
Daniels was to blame for their first goal and Lewis, maybe, for their second, but both deserve enormous credit for their overall performances, especially in the second half when the ball only came out of our half a handful of times. Lewis made some outstanding saves to keep us in the game, including a superb diving interception at the feet of Rodallega in the first half. Dunne, Blackman, Perkins, Clarke, and Orlandi were OK for me, though I would like to see more from the Spaniard. He is a better player than he has shown us thus far. Even Lundstram showed some improvement, but is still a weak link, in my view.

Jacob Murphy is quick, enthusiastic, and has a few tricks in his locker. I would have left him on for the full 90 minutes, as his pace offered us a much better outlet than Miller or Ranger. He certainly didn't look as knackered as Miller, and nor should he, at 19 years old, and so close to scoring the winning goal on his League debut.
As for Fulham, they play at a high tempo and pass the ball well. Our strategy, especially after the break, was to allow them time and space to cross the ball, and then put our bodies on the line when the ball came into our box. A risky ploy, and certainly not to the liking of some fans sitting near me, but it almost worked. The outstanding Fulham player was Scott Parker. Always in the game, wanting the ball, setting up the play. Still a quality player, and sadly, we have no one like him.

Two games into the Lee Clark regime, and I wonder if it is significant that members of our "foreign legion" are slipping down the pecking order. No involvement in the match for the Oriol twins, Rentmeister, Zoko,
Dielna, etc. Maybe Mr Clark feels that home-based payers will have bigger hearts for the formidable task ahead of them.
0


corkcitysaint added 17:59 - Nov 8

Well, we ground out another 3 points with a solid defensive display throughout the side. Dominated possession but just lacked the final quality ball today. only a couple of half chances and was looking like a frustrating goalless draw for 74 minutes. Leicester were solid in defence and were happy to give us possession. We found it very tough to breakdown.

Am delighted for Shane Long. Took both goals well. Showed good touch for not being on the pitch for long (no pun intended). Pity he didn't get a hat trick with the last chance of the game. Should be a confidence boost for him. Lovely ball over the top by Victor too.

Leicester did have a good chance, their only chance, at the end and blew it. Might have been a nervy last few minutes. Didn't think Tadic had his best game today. We had a lot of short corners that didn't really pay ff.

Overall, a very satisfying 3 points to get before the international break. A point would have been a bit deflating. Instead, we enter a tough run of games ahead with our tail well and truly up!

We march on..
1


SaintMaw added 18:35 - Nov 8

Forster had nothing to do again. Solid defensive display. Cork as silky as ever. Wanyama was as strong as ever. Shneiderlin was all around a general. Mane was great but I felt that he hindered Tadic. You could tell Tadic wanted to switch sides as he continued but Mane wouldn't let him probably because was doing so well on that side. Overall Tadic didn't have the best game. His final balls were off every time he tried to play it with his right foot. His magic comes from when he plays with his left. Pelle was snatching at chances but he was solid as usual holding possession and distributing constantly. He played his part. He NEEDS to score his next game. Long was the definition of a super sub as he allowed Tadic to switch constantly confusing the backs. He also provided that extra bit of pace needed to reach the balls to score. I commend him for that. He has gained much respect at the camp most likely. All in all, a solid win. We grinned it out. MOTM: Long. Honerable Mention: Bertrand. He was amazing. Taking the ball down the left and crossing the ball with pace and setting up the best chances in the first half. Clyne was underwhelming offensively but defensively was amazing as usual. Geat game. Happy we go into the break with a win. Now we have Aston Villa next. Hopefully we get another win. We March On. #COYR.
1


WestSussexSaint added 18:59 - Nov 8

Long will get the headlines and rightly so for the impact he made but my MOTM was Wanyama who dominated the centre of the pitch. Tadic was much more effective when he switched to the left and that was helped when Long came on. Leicester were organised and played well in patches but we're woefully short of a creative influence. Quick mention for the ref who was clearly watching a different match as missed everything and then blew up for fouls that weren't there.
1


grampy added 19:22 - Nov 8

Leicester kept a high back line and frustrated Saints, our final pass was let us down in the first half. The terrible weather served to neutralize Saints superiority over a poor Leicester side who had nothing going forward. Good win though, pleased for Shane Long.
1


Consigliere added 20:56 - Nov 8

Well, it wasn't pretty but it was very solid and you can't argue with the result. I have seen some criticism of our players on other sites but I don't think that they are fair. The conditions were atrocious and both sides were slipping over and making unforced errors as a result. It felt as though a goal was coming for a long time, and sure enough, the excellent tactical substitution of Shane Long made the difference between the sides. Respect is due to Leicester - they played defensively but they weren't here for the draw and it was a full blooded match with tackles flying in from both sides. Thoroughly enjoyed the chorus of "We're not going down" at the end, though reluctant to join in the hubris of "We're going to win the league!" We won't make the lead game on MOTD this evening and for once, that would be the right decision, but softly softly, we are making an impact that no-one expected.
0


saintandy11 added 21:59 - Nov 8

Good to see that we are capable of breaking down teams that have been set up for a nil nil draw. it's all good taking apart teams that want to try and out play us but we have always struggled against teams like this.

for me the MOTM was Big Vic. we are finally getting to see why the Celtic fans where raving about him. He totally controlled the midfield and looks solid and unflappable.
1


tsbains64 added 10:57 - Nov 9

What a night of football ! Great performance from the team.Loved Arrys attacking intent just a shame that we came up against Aguerro-he was superb
Citys passing was something to behold but the passion and desire from the Rs should and could have sealed the game
Impressed with this set up we just need to hold onto the ball for longer
Initally not impressed with the ref but after MOTD think he got the Harts error goal spot on and he should have got some help from the lino with Citys first goal
Loved the atmosphere and the driving rain added to the spectacle
Curious why City fans were so quiet perhaps it it the prawn sandwiches?
0


SaintGeorge added 11:07 - Nov 9

Poor old Frazer is gonna get dropped by England for lack of match time.

Has to be said that when Woods went clear through, Frazer simply psyched him out by the power of the Force. "This is not the goal you are looking for."

MoM Morgan for me. Tireless.
0


Jackfath added 19:36 - Nov 9

That was good.
0


tf_jack added 19:48 - Nov 9

I watched on tv.It's never the same.Need a panaramic view to have a full judgement.
-1


dantheswansman added 20:26 - Nov 9

Anyone that gives Montero less than a 10 is clueless ,
-1


blobby2 added 20:30 - Nov 9

Great comeback after going one down . Carroll and Montero outstanding, Bartley impressive considering his lack of game time. Solid and entertaining performance, great to see gomis get his first premier goal.
Leon back an added plus.
Happy jacks everywhere tonight.
0


cockneyswan added 21:00 - Nov 9

Coming back from a goal down to get a win showed great team spirit. Also losing Wayne, Nathan , jonjo and Fernandez before ko looked very difficult , but just goes to show what a great squad we now have. Also great to see Leon back on the pitch. Well done the swans!!
0


lifelong added 23:03 - Nov 9

A solid first half performance followed by a great second half come-back.
0


1jack added 23:19 - Nov 9

We won.
0


Gowerjack added 23:24 - Nov 9

We shoved it up the Arse....
0


jacktar added 09:22 - Nov 10

Fantastic win, fantastic atmosphere ................................................just FANTASTIC!
0


jacktar added 09:25 - Nov 10

Fantastic win, fantastic atmosphere ............................................ just FANTASTIC!
0


gpsgm added 12:05 - Nov 10

I love watching this team adapt to whatever challenge they face. Every game is different but they keep working out how to win. Intelligent players and an intelligent manager with more plans than you can shake a stick at. Now lets see how we do against the so called 'top four' teams.
0


Recoilboss added 09:05 - Nov 23

If you don’t buy a ticket… etc.

You could say Harry sent out a team of battlers and we were unlucky, but the truth is we got exactly what we deserved. Playing for a draw has got us precisely 0 points from 6 away games this season (plus a 7th defeat at Burton). What is to lose by having a go? I naively thought Harry had finally seen the light but this was a reversion to his tried & tested disastrous approach when travelling this season. Nothing learnt, no willingness to get forward and attack with purpose, pace & width, or crucially, set up with the creative personnel to give us those options. Why wasn’t Krankjar or Hoilett included from the start instead of essentially 8 defenders and two slow strikers getting negligable service as a result? Certain players did ok yesterday and the fitness has improved, but it’s nowhere near enough with a line up where invention & imagination is given little chance, where the mindset is basically negative, when we only try to score in ernest once we have conceded.

QPR never looked like getting on the score sheet yesterday and the red herring of the two up front does not convince me we particularly wanted to. The intent from above was to try and stop a team who may be in form but are quite average in fact, and who gave us plenty of space which we didn’t have the quality to capitalise on. A better side would have comfortably mugged Newcastle yesterday. Frustrating and depressing after recent improvement.
1


nightwish added 21:35 - Nov 23

Recoilboss your report is spot on exactly the same as I saw things against Newcastle.If I had written a report I would have written it word for word the same as you
0


geraldo added 00:04 - Nov 24

we were always second best today even though we scored so early on. If they had been 3 - 1 up at half time we couldn't have complained they were so much quicker to the ball and their passing was immaculate. However our 2 centre backs looked as tho they had never played together before and they punished us down the wings.
The sending off changed the game but I felt that Hill threw in the towel- we gave them all the posession and they were bound to score which they duly did. After they scored their second why didn't he throw an attacking player on. KH needs to find a plan B
0


WestSussexSaint added 00:50 - Nov 25

Poor game, poor performance, but could prove a valuable point come the end of the season.
0


LostBoys added 01:14 - Nov 25

dire performance against a totally defensive set up Villa. Goal conceded was very poor.
0


corkcitysaint added 07:27 - Nov 25

Shocking match, no atmosphere at the game. Looked like none of our players were up for it at all. I thought our tempo was too slow and we never really got in behind Villa apart from the goal.

Was surprised to see Schneiderlin take so many corners. With all the corners we had, we never threatened from any of them except a soft header from Fonte straight at the keeper. I think it is a part of our game we need to improve on. We have the height. Look at Chelsea and how many goals they get from corners.

Villa never really looked like scoring to be honest. Mistakes will happen from time to time and at least we clawed our way back. A point is better than none but this is a game we needed to win and to show some intent.

Not so much of a "marching" on after this performance, more of a "stumble"on...
0


SaintGeorge added 07:32 - Nov 25

Sadio Mané is not all that....

He set the tone five minutes in when our first neat build-up—what at the time promised to be the first of many—fell to him on the left of the box and he casually sliced it across the by-line. Oh dear. From there on in everything he touched turned to shyte. All that running, all that speed, and not a single shot on target or decent pass into the box. Dreadful.

There was a massive loss of creativity playing both Mané & Long which could have been corrected by playing Cork from half time at least. We sorely missed Davis, and Forster's error was Borucian in magnitude - he'd better not do that again.

MOM was Clyne, of course, the on-form guy had a fantastic game. He read Bertrand's pass brilliantly, and Bertrand showed real genius spotting the space and placing the ball as he did. Wish the rest of the team had played at the same level as our full backs.
0


aceofthebase added 07:58 - Nov 25

Tadic has been going off the ball since Mane burst on the scene. Now they are both having poor games.
Pelle is not getting any service and is therefore just making up the numbers.
Wrong starting lineup and system and subs too late so not a good match for Koeman either. (Didn't like saying that!)
0


aceofthebase added 07:58 - Nov 25

Meant going off the boil!
0


simmo400 added 11:19 - Nov 25

We were as bad as the Villans. Draw a fair rsult.
0


aceofthebase added 11:58 - Nov 25

Meant going off the boil!
0


SaintMaw added 14:02 - Nov 25

It was a OK game. We had the ball the whole time. Our formation was a 4-2-3-1 and it was good but bad at the same time. With that formation and Shane as a CAM, we dominated possession forcing them back. We were susceptible to the counter attack therefore. After a huge error we let up due to a counter attack. The game wasn't as free flowing. I don't think 4-2-3-1 should be our system right out of the gate. I think it should be the system when we want to be more direct and offensive. We should stick with the freedom 4-3-3 comes with. Since we were so offensive, we didn't bring out their defense. By bringing out their defense, we give Pelle more space and he can control it easier layoff and we can score. The only way to have done that is to have gotten rid of the CAM position and brought on another central midfielder aka Jack Cork or we should have played direct soccer but I know that is not Koemans style. Jack Cork should have started and we should have played 4-3-3.Tadic kept switching from the right to the left because he knew that the right side wasn't on. again Mane neglected to switch to the right side. I don't think Mane gets it but it will only come with playing together more often. Regardless....I think Graziano is due a goal at the moment. MOTM Clyne....got us the point. Bertrand was amazing all game....either of them deserved it. Fraser has to step it up. The defense can't be perfect every time so that's when you come in. In the end it was his fault but I think Toby could have handled it better.
0


SaintCliff added 14:49 - Nov 25

Saints played badly but got a draw against a poor team Villa. Lucky they were not playing a top team or they would have lost
0


aceofthebase added 23:45 - Nov 25

Ok let's see how our defence handles the pressures of the next few months. No easy games for a while, however I'm hoping that we are the ones applying the pressure.
0


jonath1 added 19:53 - Nov 29

Great game of football. Could have gone either way but not ashamed we took the points. Lots of good performances but special credit to Stephen Caulker for his extended periods up the pitch. Brave and effective. Nedum's distribution needs to improve, too many failed passes to the midfield, and Joey really should leave the shooting to others, but overall a gritty showing with plenty of quality too.
0


Recoilboss added 20:09 - Nov 29

Pulsating. If R’s could only play with that amount of positive commitment in every game (home AND away), we would surely pick up plenty of ‘bonus’ points. Today was proof that we need to retain that level - and slightly worrying that everyone had to play at absolutely the extent of their energies to just squeeze past what is now the bottom side in the league. Although Leicester are better than that and arrived in Shepherd’s Bush with exactly the attitude that our lot have been lacking on our travels - i.e. they played at high tempo, without fear and with attacking intent. Vardy proved a constant threat and the pressing & speed of movement forward was impressive.

Nigel Pearson will feel hard done by but we rode our luck in defence, were due some good fortune and things fell our way for a change. The win was deserved for the desire shown to actually grab a game by the scruff of the neck rather than just hope to survive, as per last weekend. Surely that lesson is now learnt?

The signs were positive from the team selection but why has it taken 12 games for Harry to realise that playing individuals in their natural positions reaps dividends? Fer was given the kind of role he obviously thrives in and, as a result, we saw the best of him, capped off with a fine goal producing a celebration smile which said “I’m finally enjoying myself!”. A couple of wayward shots aside, Barton generally played quite well with two or three really astute defence-splitting balls backed up with enough non-Hollywood pragmatic decision making (been reading the forums me thinks). Another reliable & solid performance from Henry, while Ned, although constantly flirting with disaster, held his own playing centrally, looking more at home than at right back. The Chileans both made good contributions providing the much-needed right side balance, with Vargas always gnawing away at Leicester’s defenders, while Charlie, always a presence, managed to get himself in the right place/right time again - it’s an uncanny knack. (I know BZ has his uses but personally, I don’t miss him.)

Those that say the defending was comical underestimate how good Leicester were at times. We can’t have it all ways - if we want the team to go for it, attack and press, try to score goals, then we will sometimes get caught out at the back. It happens. (We get caught out at the back anyway, no matter what approach we take!).

R’s got this result because they wanted it badly - and I want to see the team & management take that confidence & belief into every game. That’s the basic template.

PS Refreshing to see both teams getting up to take quick, intelligent free kicks - no messing about - all facilitated by a decent ref who I felt appreciated the no nonsense attitude. Made for a brilliant exciting encounter, enhanced by a fantastic atmosphere. Nail biting.
0


WestSussexSaint added 16:29 - Nov 30

Outclassed I'm afraid. The really disappointing thing was to concede 2 more goals when we had superiority in numbers.
3


codge added 16:49 - Nov 30

Just lately we seem we have trouble stringing more than 2 passes together, no fluidity to our game hopefully just a temporary thing.look for better things on Wednesday.
2


corkcitysaint added 17:19 - Nov 30

Disappointed we didn't make a better showing of ourselves. Weathered the first 15-20 mins before we finally getting into the game. How the ref booked Aguero for a dive ! He was chopped down to be fair. Was disappointed with Mane. Gave the ball away too many times and never looked a threat going forward. Thought Long showed much more energy when he cam on. Wanyama I thought was poor also. Gave the ball away and was too slow in possession. The same can be said for the team overall I think. Too slow with the ball and often looked to just pass the ball back to Forster instead of going forward. Tadic too was sloppy in the first have with his control.

The biggest disappointment I think was that we didn't make City look like they had 10 men. I think maybe we showed a bit of naivety and went too gung ho too soon. With 15 mins or so left we had time enough to get one back and I think City would have gotten nervous and fallen back deeper the later the game went on. They did look a bit shaky at the back at times today.

Again, I thought we were disappointing with our corners and free kicks. If we are going to find it hard to break teams down in open play then we need to make more of these situations.

We didn't deserve anything from this game. Hopefully, Wednesday will be more positive.

At least we are still top 4!

C'mon lads!!
2


bbotty added 17:30 - Nov 30

Augero what a player shame we couldn't handle there class, thought we played well in the first half but kind of lost the plot in the second
3


Consigliere added 17:58 - Nov 30

An odd game in that Saints gave City far too much respect. In the first half when we were playing well there were plenty of chances to dominate the game and even a few good goal chances but they weren't taken and instead, City were allowed far too much time and space. That was a considerable pity because at least in the first half, their defence looked shaky, especially the goalkeeper.

When Schniederlin went off things went very wrong for us though. The midfield failed to make connections and although Wanyama still looked quite good, there was a serious loss of linkage. The first goal didn't seem to upset the team but the second really did and it was a matter of time before the third went in. I can't say that city didn't deserve their win because they plainly did but the margin of the win was avoidable and should have been avoided.

As for the penalty argument that was one of the few decisions I thought the ref got right - the incident was right in my eye line and I also thought that the melodrama of the fall to the ground deserved an award for play acting!
0


aceofthebase added 19:25 - Nov 30

Best team and best players won.
0


halftimeorange added 19:40 - Nov 30

As I've said before , we have been looking jaded recently, most noticeably Tadic - he looks all-in and his crossing today was truly woeful with no variation. Forster gives me less confidence the more I see him. If/when Schneiderlin goes we really will need an urgent replacement as we didn't function when he failed to reappear for the second half. We were bullied out of this game which would not have happened with Morgan on the pitch.Davis looked not quite fit second half but the biggest disappointment for me was Clyne. Did he have any studs on his boots. I don't know how many times he slipped. I fear that we will sink to our true position of seventh, eighth or ninth. The referee today was quite possibly the worst we've had this season but at least he handed out poor decisions equally. Pity Jack Cork was unwell.
1


SanMarco added 20:15 - Nov 30

I felt today was 1. about the depth of our squad (we finished with Mayuka and Yoshida on the pitch - players who would struggle to make any prem or even top championship team) and 2. about how tough it is at the top. Man City had open away matches at West Ham and QPR and took just one point. Today they paid us the complement of stopping us playing rather than simply thinking their superiority was bound to win out in the end. In other words they took us seriously.

That said we were still in the game with 10 mins left against 10 men. Instead of passing it around and patiently creating 1 or 2 chances we simply threw it away.
1


SanMarco added 20:16 - Nov 30

Paid us the compliment even...
0


smiffdub added 20:50 - Nov 30

We looked like the away team for the first 1/3 of the game--that was bad tactics and, I think, nerves. After that, a good fist at it but no real threat up front until Long came on. Our goalie never makes saves...what's that about?
0


smiffdub added 21:28 - Nov 30

We looked like the away team for the first 1/3 of the game--that was bad tactics and, I think, nerves. After that, a good fist at it but no real threat up front until Long came on. Our goalie never makes saves...what's that about?
0


saintandy11 added 21:35 - Nov 30

Can't argue with the result although i don't think the scoreline was a fair reflection of the game.

they taught us a lesson today on how to control the spaces and how to close teams down. hopefully its a lesson we will take on board.

Can't help but think that RK made a mistake with the 1/2 time substitution. Our back 4 has looked good and settled so why break it up and unsettle the team? Ok Morgan had to go off by why not drop Davis along side Wanyama and bring on Long to support Pelle (who was very isolated).
1


LostBoys added 00:31 - Dec 1

mistake after mistake after mistake and punished for every one

lowlight Lampard waddling o the edge of our box unmarked and being allowed to shoot
0


SaintMaw added 01:48 - Dec 1

I would say in a nutshell....we started badly; we found our footing; we ended the half strong; we started the second half ok; let in a cheap goal; Koeman put everyone on offense; let in 2 more goals as consequence. The ref was terrible in the first half....should've been a PK...sorry but I honestly think it was. And some fouls given against us were just stupid.

I felt that Fonte and Toby were good in the back. Clyne and Bertrand played well...Bertrand played better. He tends to take on defenders more than Clyne. But Clyne can get into better positions. Our organization during the first half in defense was perfect. Schneiderlin had a great game....bossing the midfield Wanyama was Amazing in the midfield. Davis was quiet in my opinion but he doesn't make mistakes so that's good. Tadic had awful first touches in the game but looked good once he settled the ball. He needs to have more tenacity out wide. Pelle was good. But pelle needs to score. Like HAS to score soon.

I feel that tactically we were as organized as possible I feel like we have the offensive to defensive organized movement down packed...it's almost impervious but if someone doesn't fully understand the system then that is a maaaajor problem. That happened today in the second half and we lost it. Today Schneiderlin got hurt mid game and we put in Yoshida and switched Toby. I think that Cork should've came on he would've done a better job at pressing than Toby who is a better tackler. Yoshida shouldn't have came on. Tadic and Mane actually switched back and forth in the first half which was great and caused a lot of problems....I am now starting to think Long should start over Mane. I think. Finally Pelle needs to SCORE!

My question is......why hasn't Koeman played Cork recently....he is a great player IMO
We need to not choke against the big clubs.
We can't let Rodriguez go....we really need him on offense. I would rather sub him on to play than Mayuka...I think I would actually start him along side Tadic and Pelle if he finds his form.

This was the first team we actually "lost" to so yea I accept that and i am extremely dissapointed but we are still 3rd and we have beaten Arsenal before so I'm excited to watch that game.
0


SaintMaw added 02:05 - Dec 1

I was wrong...Jack Cork wasn't on the list of subs. Didn't realize he wasn't there. We could've really used him today though. Hopefully he will be back for Wednesday
0


winchesterbob added 06:23 - Dec 1

Saints got a masterclass. City were just too good
0


simmo400 added 09:46 - Dec 1

Men against boys. Inefective display.Lost the ball too easily.
0


redwight added 14:39 - Dec 1

The reality check that we feared. Of the bright spots (not many), Wanyama in the first half was outstanding.
-1


Harbour added 17:47 - Dec 1

very enjoyable if nervy afternoon lets be honest we could have lost the game but credit the players for not giving up . Green Austin Caulker & Fir special mention for saving us. We have to get better to stay in the league but heartened by the 110% effort the whole team put in a shift more please Tuesday and Saturday. Great we got the 3 points
0


tegid13 added 00:32 - Dec 3

An all-round strong performance from the Swans, not one player was at fault throughout the game. Exceptional in defence and attack, just a shame they couldn't put a few more passed Rob Green (who also had an outstanding game) - Bony with several scoring opportunities.
0


superhoopdownunder added 00:52 - Dec 3

If it wasn't for Rob Green we would have lost 4 or 5 nil.
1


Recoilboss added 07:59 - Dec 3

Do you know what - can’t be bothered. If I’ve posted any other away day reports, just read those. Groundhog day.
0


QPunkR added 09:03 - Dec 3

Just two questions. Leroy Fer; why? And Jesus Barton; why the ****??
0


dixiedean added 10:24 - Dec 3

negative mindset fro the off. Barton's only passes to QPR players were backwards ones. On the rare occasion he passed forward it went to opposition. As for the full backs- shocking. Easiest man of the match decision of the season
0


WestonsuperR added 18:23 - Dec 3

Another pathetic Away performance, we havent deserved a single point Away from home all season and if this sort of effort and tactics continue we not pick any up for a while longer.

Some credit should be given to Green and Dunne did quite well to contain Bony but other than that not one player came out of that game with any credit.
0


dirk_doone added 22:27 - Dec 3

We deserved a draw in spite of the fact we had four of our players kicked off the park. Oh well, that's professional football: it's a contact sport. There were some excellent performances from our defence: Forster, Clyne, Fonte, Alderweireld & Bertrand. And Wanyama was great in midfield as usual.

1


SaintMaw added 22:48 - Dec 3

Very evenly matched game....heartbroken for Cork. We truly missed him....arguably the first 30 mins with him on was when we felt most comfortable....I hate the fact that soo many players are getting hurt...we deserved the point but unlucky to not get it.

Defense was solid even with Yoshida in who played great. Up until the end when we got overpowered by the lack of midfield.

Midfield....well everyone got injured except Wanyama and Davis....this is going to be a tough stretch for our midfield.

Forward. Tadic had a better game....Long was amazing! Mane underwhelmed....he needs to stop flaunting and just play the game. Pelle missed an open shot which he should have scored....Mayuka needs to go...he is not a top quality player honestly....he just makes me think we need Jay Rod even more.

Post match thoughts....I think we need to keep Gaston Ramirez...to add to our depth when he comes back from loan next season. I think we need to keep Jay Rodriguez as well. We need to buy another Central midfielder and we need to buy a back up outside back. We need to try and keep Bertrand and Toby as well. All we need is depth. And we can survive tough stretches like this. We can't lose against Manchester United or we can kiss our top 4 credentials goodbye....we need to at least tie to bring the confidence in the players back up.
0


SaintMaw added 23:02 - Dec 3

Very evenly matched game....heartbroken for Cork. We truly missed him....arguably the first 30 mins with him on was when we felt most comfortable....I hate the fact that soo many players are getting hurt...we deserved the point but unlucky to not get it.

Defense was solid even with Yoshida in who played great. Up until the end when we got overpowered by the lack of midfield.

Midfield....well everyone got injured except Wanyama and Davis....this is going to be a tough stretch for our midfield.

Forward. Tadic had a better game....Long was amazing! Mane underwhelmed....he needs to stop flaunting and just play the game. Pelle missed an open shot which he should have scored....Mayuka needs to go...he is not a top quality player honestly....he just makes me think we need Jay Rod even more.

Post match thoughts....I think we need to keep Gaston Ramirez...to add to our depth when he comes back from loan next season. I think we need to keep Jay Rodriguez as well. We need to buy another Central midfielder and we need to buy a back up outside back. We need to try and keep Bertrand and Toby as well. All we need is depth. And we can survive tough stretches like this. We can't lose against Manchester United or we can kiss our top 4 credentials goodbye....we need to at least tie to bring the confidence in the players back up.
0


SaintMaw added 23:03 - Dec 3

Very evenly matched game....heartbroken for Cork. We truly missed him....arguably the first 30 mins with him on was when we felt most comfortable....I hate the fact that soo many players are getting hurt...we deserved the point but unlucky to not get it.

Defense was solid even with Yoshida in who played great. Up until the end when we got overpowered by the lack of midfield.

Midfield....well everyone got injured except Wanyama and Davis....this is going to be a tough stretch for our midfield.

Forward. Tadic had a better game....Long was amazing! Mane underwhelmed....he needs to stop flaunting and just play the game. Pelle missed an open shot which he should have scored....Mayuka needs to go...he is not a top quality player honestly....he just makes me think we need Jay Rod even more.

Post match thoughts....I think we need to keep Gaston Ramirez...to add to our depth when he comes back from loan next season. I think we need to keep Jay Rodriguez as well. We need to buy another Central midfielder and we need to buy a back up outside back. We need to try and keep Bertrand and Toby as well. All we need is depth. And we can survive tough stretches like this. We can't lose against Manchester United or we can kiss our top 4 credentials goodbye....we need to at least tie to bring the confidence in the players back up.
0


tsbains64 added 09:44 - Dec 7

two championships teams battling it out in the Championship....on no I mean the Premiership. Poor quality lots of missed passes from us but a lucky deflection and a great second goal secured the match
I see potential we just need a bit more consistency Green and Dunne were outstanding and made the difference but we need to improve if we are going ot stay
Great crowd
0


Harbour added 10:39 - Dec 7

great game green saved us again. Dunne fantastic at the back controlled ings. Fer and Henry solid. fantasic well worked second goal kranjar isla vargas austin poetry. charlie unlucky second booking first he deserved
0


SaintMaw added 23:58 - Dec 8

Morale of the story...finish your chances.

We dominate most of the game 1 goal from 15 and Man Utd 2 goals from 2. We gotta finish

Bad mistake by Fonte...pretty sure he's well aware that he messed up bug time. Otherwise the defense was decent. You can tell that the chemistry with Fonte and Alderwiereld is better than Fonte and Yoshida but that just comes with experience....Notice how we have let in 6 goals without him at back....thats half of out total goals against...and those all happened these past 3 games....anyways..solid with the 4 besides that...I think Gardos should play more tbh

Midfield was Great Hesketh was actually a great sub..MILES better than Mayuka.

Forward....Soo happy Graziano Scored! he really needed something to build off from Tadic was better. Finally Mane is getting jaded. I feel like he hasn't matured as a player yet...He has immense skill and Immense talent but I feel like since he has came he feels like he doesn't have much to prove. No hunger. But I think when Jay Rod gets back he will challange for a spot and then we will see that competition and hunger from the players.

All in all, We lost the game ourselves. It will feel humbling. Either we will come back against Burnley in full force or there will be not much confidence. Hopefully we are back at full force.
2


LostBoys added 09:19 - Dec 9

very disappointing with the Fonte error and the immobile watchman Forster
2


sidsaint added 10:21 - Dec 9

Very disappointed with result and gifting another goal like at Villa. Yoshida's best game this season. Hope Toby back on Saturday to partner Wanyama so that Davis can move forward. Thought Hesketh had good debut. So some positives but disappointed we did not win against a very poor United side who were there for the taking. Surely we have more self belief after such a good start to the season.
0


corkcitysaint added 17:25 - Dec 13

Woefull..

Hard to think of a positive from this performance. Probably Hesketh for the first 20 mins. That's about it. Only for 5 or 10 mins after the penalty miss did we look to get amongst them and threaten anything.

Need to pick ourselves up fast for Tuesday. Lose that one and I think our confidence will be rock bottom with a tough run of ages to come. It's time to roll up the sleeves and fight !
1


codge added 17:59 - Dec 13

This has to be the worst yet, why we start Mane who has done nothing to justify Millions spent on him baffles me.And Tadic
has been a shadow of his self these last few games.
Another bad mistake cost us AGAIN,the penalty miss well what can you say that happens, although we got spoiled with Lambert and Tiss....
0


SaintGeorge added 18:27 - Dec 13

One sometimes wonders why one is interested in Association Football. What a diabolical match.

As for the performance, Mané is like the plughole of the team - every clever move, pass, run, dribble, and idea eventually falls at his feet and goes straight down the drain.

1


SaintMaw added 19:08 - Dec 13

That was awful.....The game can be pretty much summed up by looking at Tadic's Penalty miss. The game was there for our taking but we let it slip....

Defense was solid UNTIL that slip in concentration. Bertrand played amazingly. I want to keep him

Midfield...I thought Wanyama was HORRENDOUS in the first half. He picked it up in the second half but that only brings him up from a 4 to a 5 -__- completely horrendous Davis was good. He seemed like the only focused player on the field. Hesketh was great...he was like a breath of fresh air. am sooo Gutted that the kid didnt get to finish his full mtch debut. I feel that he is a great player. Ward-Prowse didnt do much for me. He didnt make any impact but he didnt mess up either. Some deadly balls were played from him though..That is something we surely missed. I am sure he will be back to his best form in a few games

Going forward. Mane was awful today. He should not start. Long should start. Not once in this game did Mane and Tadic switch. Trippier shut him down all night. Tadic played well but he shoulda scored the PK. honestly. Pelle played great but no service again

We all know what must be changed. We need Jay Rod back fast...We need Schneiderlin back to help our cause. Long should start over Mane for the time being. We need to add depth to the team in January. And we need some belief....I'm sure Koeman would be furious with the players. I know I am angry we lost.....
0


Consigliere added 10:01 - Dec 14

I wasn't there so am reluctant to comment too far but having seen the second half online, I think that SaintMaw has pretty much nailed it in terms of intelligent analysis. The problem is that success breeds success and failure spawns failure, and we have had a few bad results recently. Let us hope for a good performance on Tuesday to start the turnaround - I damn well hope so because its a long way to go and I'm told that its usually cold at Sheffield's ground so taking plenty of pullovers for this trip!
1


AhmedIsa added 18:17 - Dec 14

We made same mistakes, but the quality in the attack was good.
1


tegid13 added 18:40 - Dec 14

Unlucky to lose in the final stages of the match. We did not deserve to concede so late on. We should of scored on several occasions during the game. At times, very sloppy in the 1st half (especially in defence), although we dominated in the 2nd half, but lacked the finishing in the final 3rd. Poor communication between Jazz Richards & Gerhard Tremmel at the end, which cost us the goal.
1


Dull1Thomas added 19:31 - Dec 14

An exciting game that was lost as soon as Shelvey was introduced. Jazz will get all the stick for one poor clearance but he's a player that passes the ball and there was no one to pass to. Even so Spurs still had to get the ball in to shooting opportunity and with hole left by Leon's absence they had all the time in the world.
A match that we should have wrapped up within 60 minutes yet the 'top two inches' let us down again.
Our defence of corners reminded me of the state we used to get in when Roberto was in charge - not clue.
I love watching Montero but again he had scoring opportunities and didn't attempt a crack at goal and to be honest, while more exciting than Dyer, he is simply not as effective.
If Michu is fit to play in January, and Napoli don't want him, he has to be back in the team.
0


baglowz added 23:00 - Dec 14

Poor first half, allowed spurs to press high and unfortunately we had no plan b. Second half terrific display from Swans. Unfortunately same old 'didn't put the chances away'. Thought Jazz was sold short by Tremel and although played his way out of a tight spot, he was a bit stranded as there was no white shirt to pass to. Shelley made a similar error a minute later and last week Britton gave the ball away in front of goal. These things happen to all players so I wish people on FB and Twitter would get off Jazz' s back. He's done really well when he's come in, just needs a run in the side. Got to start taking our chances otherwise we'll start slipping out of the too 10. Another great season in the PL....who'd have thought that 10 years ago? A small club punching its weight in the best league in the world. Well done Swans
0


superhoopdownunder added 01:26 - Dec 16

I agree with your comments on Barton.
He is a liability and was at fault for the first 2 goals.

He can't pass, is slow and is not up to the Premier League.
He should not be in our team and should never be captain.

I would much rather have Henry and Sandro in the team.

Dunne should be captain.

Phillips proved again he is not a Premier League player.

Everton were there for the taking tonight and we blew it.
1


batmanhoop added 13:56 - Dec 16

we got what I expected, nothing. The only positive Everton were not at their best, otherwise it would have been a right drubbing
0


TimSaint added 02:45 - Dec 17

What a joke. I and 4000 others made the long journey to witness that utter rubbish. Game after game of late, Koeman has said how we must learn from our mistakes, but either he is not making the team learn or they are not listening.
FF - some great saves but should have held the shot that led to the goal
NC - poor game and never given the chance to get forward
MT - looked out of his depth despite good games at Arse and Stoke in previous rounds
JF - did not lead, won most headers, but passing and crossing was abysmal
FG - did not want to be there and was scared to pass forwards and justified red at the end
MS - did well enough and was always an option, but needless card means he misses Everton
VW - battled well and was good driving forward, but also got a stupid card is misses Everton
JWP - looking stronger but drifted in and out of the game. Davis in for him with a full squad to pick from
RB - the gamble of playing him left mid did not work
SM - offered little again and summed up his night with 2 glaring misses
SL - ran his socks off, worked back and in the channels and won headers. Little supply or support.

LI - started quite well then dropped out of the game
EM - didn't see him do anything apart from try to turn in the box, fall over and concede possession
TA - should have been on at the start. Will need to be our holding mid v Everton now we have 2 suspensions, unless Davis recovers.
Where was Tadic ? Perhaps not game best suited for him, but bench him at least ???

As some of the players have already publically apologised, perhaps they would like to offer us fans a ticket refund, like their Sunderland counterparts did - as this defeat is as embarrassing as losing 8-0 to a premier league rival.

See you all on Saturday and hopefully we will have learnt from our mistakes this time around !!!
3


corkcitysaint added 07:42 - Dec 17

I was expecting to hear sleigh bells this Christmas but now it has morphed into alarm bells...

What a shocker of a match. We were poor all over the pitch, lacked drive, motivation, no creativity. No speed or urgency about the passing and movement. Forster flapping at crosses again, Mane hacking down players. Ill discipline throughout the team last night. Now big Vic & Morgan missing for Saturday. Gardos sent off. What a horror!

It seemed we really lacked a leader last night.

Where have our team gone?? Confidence is down the toilet at the moment and you'd wonder when the next win or even clean sheet is going to come.

Am worried and frustrated!!
5


10i added 10:04 - Dec 17

Wow, watching that was horrible...

In fact Koeman should bring Boruc back. He's a genius making 2 horrendous mistakes a year. Forster's average and makes significantly more of them...

Mane - as an Austrian I was just wondering why... Didn't like him at Salzburg (saw at least 15 games featuring him), now I like him even less... Kampl would have been the far better choice to buy, but even there would be some doubt about the physicality... Embarassing...
And then we have to substitute him and bring Mayuka who's even worse...

I hope noone will ask any more for Gardos to play over Yoshida... Yoshida at least works hard and tries even if he's not getting everything right. Gardos is slow, weak in positioning and unable to properly pass the ball (how could he ever play DM?).

Isgrove... Oh my god, he's just not up to it - and you can see he'll never ever be... At 22 he's not a talent any more. He's just way off...

JWP - him getting injured months ago was finally nothing too bad for the team - only featuring in the win at West Ham, the Swansea-game was won when he was already off. Way off in a physical way and so he is playing just for dead balls as he has nothing else to offer (as an offensive midfielder in the centre of the park!!!!) .

Bertrand is no midfielder.

And then there's the question of resting(?? what should he be tired of?) Alderweireld - while playing both DM with 4 yellow cards. Just to get sure that we don't have any chance on saturday.
Hopefully Davis will get back - otherwise I guess I'll bet my car (ain't got a house) on Everton to win this...

Having said that I have to praise Long - as he worked very hard and went for every header, though he is a very limited player. As for Fonte, he's at least committed...

Frustrating night - that showed us that we need Tadic and Pelle - even if they're far from their best...
2


DENZY added 11:10 - Dec 17

Garbage.
1


overtonboy62 added 11:18 - Dec 17

Frustrating, annoying, agree with most if not all comments...but I want to say that I have not witnessed so much racial abuse at a ground in years.

I didn't travel or sit with the away fans as I was up in sheffield collecting my daughter from University and went with her as a last minute decision. We were sat in the south stand (row k) behind the United dug out and the language from home fans of all ages/genders towards Clyne, Wanyama, Mane, Betrand, Mayuka was unbelievable. Thought I had gone back to the 70's.

Said nothing as an away fan sat amongst veciferous home fans with my daughter and even afterwards said nothing to stewards who were very friendly with some of the main culprits.

I takeaway one bright spot from the night, at least my club has moved on from the past and is multicultural...SUFC, seems to be well in the past and poorer for it.

0


SaintGeorge added 14:15 - Dec 17

I'm impressed. I thought the Burnley match couldn't be topped for sheer ineptitude and lack of desire.

The worst thing has to be watching Saints playing-out the last ten minutes so they could get on the bus home. A real shocker.
0


dirk_doone added 14:43 - Dec 17

Gardos obviously didn't want to wait that long, George.
1


TimSaint added 15:33 - Dec 17

Having been back for over 13 hours now, i have had time to dwell on the result, but unfortunately stick by original posting from 2am this morning.
It seems that the media is today focusing on Koeman not shaking hands with Clough after the game. This was apparently down to a lack of respect and also the Sheffield United bench swearing at the Saints bench and 4th Official - even as alleged on talksport this morning, using the C word.
Now I am not sure whether this is a 'Moreno-esque' diversion tactic from Koeman as we lost, or whether they were calling everyone C's, the fact is, we as a team showed United no respect and most players, despite thinking they just had to turn up to win, played like a bunch of C's and have screwed up of team selection for Saturday.
No Morgan or Vic as suspended.
Possibly no Tadic unless rested last night.
Probably no Davis
No Gardos - not that he has shown prem qualities yet
JWP may be back but is no where near back to his best

Pelle is back yes, but we have nobody giving him any ammunition.

0


TimSaint added 17:09 - Dec 17

Having been back for over 13 hours now, i have had time to dwell on the result, but unfortunately stick by original posting from 2am this morning.
It seems that the media is today focusing on Koeman not shaking hands with Clough after the game. This was apparently down to a lack of respect and also the Sheffield United bench swearing at the Saints bench and 4th Official - even as alleged on talksport this morning, using the C word.
Now I am not sure whether this is a 'Moreno-esque' diversion tactic from Koeman as we lost, or whether they were calling everyone C's, the fact is, we as a team showed United no respect and most players, despite thinking they just had to turn up to win, played like a bunch of C's and have screwed up of team selection for Saturday.
No Morgan or Vic as suspended.
Possibly no Tadic unless rested last night.
Probably no Davis
No Gardos - not that he has shown prem qualities yet
JWP may be back but is no where near back to his best

Pelle is back yes, but we have nobody giving him any ammunition.

0


TimSaint added 17:22 - Dec 17

Having been back for over 13 hours now, i have had time to dwell on the result, but unfortunately stick by original posting from 2am this morning.
It seems that the media is today focusing on Koeman not shaking hands with Clough after the game. This was apparently down to a lack of respect and also the Sheffield United bench swearing at the Saints bench and 4th Official - even as alleged on talksport this morning, using the C word.
Now I am not sure whether this is a 'Moreno-esque' diversion tactic from Koeman as we lost, or whether they were calling everyone C's, the fact is, we as a team showed United no respect and most players, despite thinking they just had to turn up to win, played like a bunch of C's and have screwed up of team selection for Saturday.
No Morgan or Vic as suspended.
Possibly no Tadic unless rested last night.
Probably no Davis
No Gardos - not that he has shown prem qualities yet
JWP may be back but is no where near back to his best

Pelle is back yes, but we have nobody giving him any ammunition.

0


TimSaint added 17:22 - Dec 17

Having been back for over 13 hours now, i have had time to dwell on the result, but unfortunately stick by original posting from 2am this morning.
It seems that the media is today focusing on Koeman not shaking hands with Clough after the game. This was apparently down to a lack of respect and also the Sheffield United bench swearing at the Saints bench and 4th Official - even as alleged on talksport this morning, using the C word.
Now I am not sure whether this is a 'Moreno-esque' diversion tactic from Koeman as we lost, or whether they were calling everyone C's, the fact is, we as a team showed United no respect and most players, despite thinking they just had to turn up to win, played like a bunch of C's and have screwed up of team selection for Saturday.
No Morgan or Vic as suspended.
Possibly no Tadic unless rested last night.
Probably no Davis
No Gardos - not that he has shown prem qualities yet
JWP may be back but is no where near back to his best

Pelle is back yes, but we have nobody giving him any ammunition.

0


Consigliere added 17:43 - Dec 17

Back in civilisation and regret to say that I have to agree with TimSaint even after plenty of time to reflect whilst on the train. Let there be no doubt about it - Sheffield won because they were the better team on the night. I wouldn't have minded losing so much if our lot had been up for the fight but they weren't. Worse, I actually thought that they were pretty dirty, and that is not the Southampton way. Back to the drawing board methinks. Some of the poorest performers - Mane in particular - should be left to fester for a while. Sure, he can run at a hundred miles an hour but so what? Lambert would have lumbered into the right position and then done something useful with the ball in front of goal.

Rant over. Time to get b behind the team for the next outing.
0


Consigliere added 19:02 - Dec 20

I know I've made this point before but nothing succeeds like success - the transformation in the team after the first (own) goal was almost palpable. Gone was the nervousness and we always looked like scoring a second, which from where I was seated looked a bit scrappy but will reserve judgment until MOTD. The third goal was a striker's finish from a player - Yoshida - I have always rated even when others were criticising him earlier in the season. Clyne seems to be back on form and the Pele/Long combination has real promise. As for the youngsters, some genuine raw talent there which should make for an exciting future. I was thoroughly cheesed off after the Sheffield debacle but the best way to assuage the disappointed customer is to over-perform next time, and by that token Saints have done all the right things. One swallow does not a summer make but it does feel as though we are back on track. Great support from the fans as well, and respect to Everton who turned up in large numbers to support their team.
3


danvaughan89 added 19:21 - Dec 20

Good display - glad to see RoKo switch things up (finally!) and play three at the back.
Everyone played well today, especially Reed. Give the boy a run in the team after today.
The main thing was the effort and commitment for me - RK freshened things up and it showed. Wasn't an amazing performance, but we battled and out fought Everton. Not many can say that over the years so it's good to see us do it.
We should have had a penalty in the first half and Forster was reliable. Special mention to Yoshida who once again proved that he is good enough. Let's hope those moaning about him will pipe down!
2


MoonyDale added 19:25 - Dec 20

Without doubt the most inept officiating witnessed for many a day, there should be a minus option for the ref in the ratings as he didn't deserve a positive mark at all. Gutted at the result against that obnoxious crew and gutted for Conrad with a nasty injury. Same old County, always cheating.....
3


corkcitysaint added 19:34 - Dec 20

Tuesday's Sinners become Saturday Saints.

I must admit I was expecting the scoreline to be reversed before the game. I thought the team was a lot more upbeat today and had more of a hunger about them then we've seem for a few games now. Everton weren't great today but take nothing away from our lads. I thought there was a freshness about them today. Long & Pelle led from the front and looked hungry. Was a pity Long didn't get his goal in the 2nd half. Reed did well in the centre, Davis had a great cross for Yosh to head (shoulder) his goal. Fair play to him. He gets a fair bit of stick but I'm delighted for him tonight. Forster looked more commanding in his box too. Great to keep a clean sheet today.

It looked like we might be in for a tough time when we didn't get an early penalty but we stuck at it. Fans were in great voice from the start which I think helped the team too.

Hopefully, we can build on this and kick on again. Still a tough road ahead but am a bit more confident than I was pre kick off.

1


TimSaint added 20:02 - Dec 20

Much improved - how refreshing to see a more committed and dedicated side. Having the youngsters maybe gave the rest a bit of a kick.
I don't think many expected a win, let alone something as emphatic - but lets be honest, the toffees were poor and were not up for it as much as we were.
I suppose we got a bit of luck for the first goal and boy were we due some after the recent games, but hey, Everton always score for us at SMS. The ref didn't help us either and he must hate Shane Long. He could have easily given us 4 free kicks and a penalty, all against Long, but we got 1 free kick - despite 2 of them being just a little short of assult (gareth barry !!)
Interesting that Mane never got on, but to be honest we didn't need him and he probably would have got booked anyway - speaking of which, I think that is now Fonte out of the Palace game, but at least we should have a few more coming back.
Thoroughly deserved win and we were hardly testred apart from 2 shots in the 2nd half.
Martinez made me laugh though, saying we had changed our set up to accommodate a dangerous Everton team. No Roberto, we changed our formation to accommodate the only players we had available for selection .......and how handsomely it paid off !! :-)
1


stuartcryer added 20:45 - Dec 20

County wasting time at 0 0 tossers
1


TijuanaTim added 21:05 - Dec 20

Great work RK
0


winchesterbob added 21:06 - Dec 20

Saints had to beat Everton and a very poor ref. Justice was done with the Lukaku og which should have been a pen with Jagielka being carded. In fact the poor ref galvanised the crowd who got solidly behind the Saints and in was splendid that the second goal went in as 'When the Saints go marching in' was ringing around the ground. Just shows what positive support can do. Harrison Reed, what a game he had, just edges my mom in front of Yoshida, Clyne and Davis
2


sidsaint added 21:09 - Dec 20

What a great way to bounce back. Superb all round display showing determination, patience, commitment ,professionalism and quality throughout the team.
1


blackvincent added 23:22 - Dec 20

Despite a poor first half where County had the better of the game we deserved better after a second period which we dominated, could and should have scored more. Again comment must be made of the referee. Again a shocker, gives what he imagines he sees as opposed to what actually happens and costs the Dale 2 points with a shocking decision to allow their final goal in the 5th minute of 4 additional minutes. Just wonder why we shut up shop late on and didn't continue to take the game to a team which was looking well beaten. The old adage of playing in the opposition half still holds for me. Not keen on having to comment on referees but it happens too often I'm afraid, some shockers!
0


saintandy11 added 01:11 - Dec 21

Oh my, a manager that fits the tactics around the players he has available and not forcing players to play roles they are not used to playing because he has no plan B......... wouldn't have happened last year.

Good result against a good team. I believe they are one of the teams we will be fighting with for a European place at the end of the season so 3 good points.

Nice to see us passing the ball around again and you could see the confidence coming back as the game moved on.

Great game for Harrison Reed, not the most gifted with the ball but he sure knows how to make a tackle and what an engine he has. very impressed. My MOM
0


ashes added 12:26 - Dec 21

worst officials I've ever seen.
1


Consigliere added 20:14 - Dec 26

Have I been proved to be wrong over Mane? Well, up to a point Lord Copper! Nothing like a spell on the bench plus some new boots for Christmas to get a striker back into form. An excellent pass from JWP but he still had a lot of work to do to score the first goal, and credit where its due, he did very well with it. Thereafter, confidence seeping through his veins, he got better still. The Telegraph says that the Palace were awful but having watched the game, I can't say I agree. We were certainly better than them but they carried a goal threat throughout the game and deserved their consolation goal. Looking forward to Chelsea now - what odds do you think I would get for a three-nil win to Saints?
2


halftimeorange added 21:08 - Dec 26

Good win. We dominated immediately after the break and it paid with two goals. No doubt about it, Mane looked far better today than I've seen before (in England). The way he turned Ward for the Bertrand goal was brilliant. There were some worries. Yoshida was very careless with some of his passing. Clyne got caught out of position towards the end and Palace did cause us some problems. Had it gone to 2-3 I think we might have folded. Forster had one of his "Should I stay or should I go games". Gardos didn't convince me however, I'm not a Fonte fan - he gives 100% but he is prone to make errors and mistime tackles. Bertrand had possibly his best game and it's a shame he's out against Chelsea. Pelle worked tirelessly, held the ball up well and generally bossed Palace in the air. The star of our show was Alderweireld. Unlike Schneiderlin he was interested throughout the game. McCarthy is another competent youngster. We might succumb to Chelsea but Arsenal is a fair target for where we are now.
-2


enfieldargh added 22:29 - Dec 26

How we were only 1 down by half time was a surprise. Niko was awful until we got the man advantage.

Mutch was appalling and offered us nothing in every aspect of his game. There must be a decent footballer I there as mates were saying what a great player he could be.

So players who were given an opportunity to shine could not rise to the occasion. So frustrating but we should have got a point in the end
0


aceofthebase added 07:07 - Dec 27

Halftimeorange Your report was nearly spot on but I think your criticism of Gardos,Yoshida and Schneiderlin unfair.
0


gpsgm added 09:16 - Dec 27

At last I've seen a Saints team that can play 3 at the back ... and it works because of Toby playing the sweeper so well. Well done to Maya and Florin too for looking so good. We were were good when Nat & Ryan got forward and looked vulnerable when they hung back and let Palace come on to us. Sadio answered his critics today, JWPs dead ball play excellent. RoKos half-time talk won us the game by stimulating the 2nd & 3rd goals after the break. Great day out and thanks to Saints for cheap coach travel, free lunch packs and Santa hats
1


sidsaint added 20:17 - Dec 28

Some luck yes. But great defending throughout the team. Well organised, putting bodies on the line etc as good a defensive performance as I have seen from Saints in a very long time. Another great goal from Mane.
1


batmanhoop added 21:56 - Dec 28

awful game of football, Palace were dreadful, but were the better side
0


batmanhoop added 21:57 - Dec 28

awful game of football, Palace were dreadful, but were the better side
0


Winchsaint added 22:01 - Dec 28

I came to St Mary's with trepidation and low expectations but left absolutely elated! Having been at the same fixture almost a year ago when we lost 0-3 and it bucketed all day, both the weather and the result were a wonderful contrast. I think that winning 6 points from out last two fixtures meant that the pressure was off a little bit as we had halted the slump and turned things around and this allowed the players to be more confident and play with freedom. Having scored a great one on one goal at Palace the other day Manè showed lightning pace and great feet to score an even better one today (against a better keeper too). He seems to be an instinctive player as later in the game when he got into the box and had to think about what to do he left it too late and the momentum broke down. Still, overall a good performance from him and he was rewarded with a full 90 mins as a result. Our other attacking option Pellè had to do more defending than attacking in the end, and was very important at winning headers, holding up play and tracking back. I just hope he wasn't too disheartened about his lack of goal chances, he will get plenty more when we aren't playing the strongest team in the league. The team defended like lions in the second half and Yoshida, arguably this season's biggest improver had another very solid game game and Matty Targett did brilliantly on his debut. Schneiderlin took one for the team at with a second yellow at the end, but his presence throughout the game could be the reason why we drew with Chelsea but lost to City, with him and Wanyama matching Chelsea's physicality. Unlike City, Chelsea also managed to be dirty (committing 23 fouls to our 14) and diving at the same time (Fabregas) and bemoaned every decision that didn't go there way. We managed to keep Costa quiet but not Hazard who was their star player, luckily we learned from our mistake against City where our defenders were drawn to Ageuro like a moth leaving huge gaps for other players to fill and were much better organised, so credit also has to go to big RK who deservedly receive much love from the home fans. Fourth at New Year, what a start to the first half of the season!
2


gerrysaint added 22:13 - Dec 28

Great result considering we were without two of our main defenders. Mane took his chance brilliantly without much praise from the Sky team. Shame about the sending off, we will need Morgan in the next few game. Targett very solid in his first start he would have been very harshly treated if a penalty had been given.
All hands to the pump in the second half but a tremendous team effort to share the points.
COYR
0


winchesterbob added 22:15 - Dec 28

Very well organised defensively, Alderweirledis a class act, and Yohsida was top draw playing out of position. without two pacey full backs to push the game up the park we were under the cosh for long periods and often there wash't an out ball which didn't make for an entertaining game. A point against a very good team was well earned.
0


romfordranger added 22:32 - Dec 28

Awful game today, really need to beat Swansea now otherwise the Christmas/new year period a complete disaster. Can just write off the away games, the players attitude away from home just stinks, beaten before they start. Hopefully a few useful additions in the transfer window, could do worse than Carlton Cole, give Austin a target man to play off. Not much money available for old Arry to waste, so it is only likely to be other clubs rejects, but it would be good to see Townsend back on loan from Spurs. Finding it hard to get excited about seeing either Defoe or Robbie Keane in a QPR shirt.
0


Consigliere added 23:00 - Dec 28

To hold Chelsea to a draw requires every man in the team to play at their very best, and that is exactly what we did this afternoon. Until the equaliser I was beginning to believe that this was a game we could actually win, and until the sending off it was a game I didn't think we were going to lose, such was the commitment to defence. The last few minutes were pretty stressful it must be said but in the end, true grit won out. What a fantastic performance - the game of the season for me. Never have I been so pleased to see a scoring draw! Playing like this we stand a really good chance of beating Arsenal. Can't wait. (Oh and yes, Mane has continued to prove me wrong in previous comments - he really can do something useful when he gets hold of the ball in a good position).
2


TijuanaTim added 23:10 - Dec 28

Great result, the current Chelsea team are one of the best Prem teams I've ever seen.
0


corkcitysaint added 08:58 - Dec 29

That 2nd half seemed so long I thought we were in 2015 when it finished. Great result and great character shown from the whole team. Couldn't fault any one of them. It looks like they have their mojo back again. Can't wait for the Arsenal game now.

Well done to Mane. He took his goal well. It would have been easy to panic and blaze the ball over the bar. Pity he's heading off to the African cup now just when he's hitting a bit of form. Well done to Matty T also. Not an easy game to come in to and brought a bit of luck with him..

Overall, a gritty, determined effort with a lot of back bone. Well done lads.
0


superhoopdownunder added 09:23 - Dec 29

Terrible performance and game.
One we could easily have lost.
Man of the Match for QPR was either Isla or Henry who were both stand outs.
Mile Jedinak of Palace would be a terrific signing for us as he is an excellent player. They will miss him for a month (as he will be captain of the Australian team in the Asian Cup) which is great news for us.
Barton was terrible again - he can't pass, is slow and his set pieces are a joke. He should not be good enough for our first team - never mind be the captain.
Vargas is playing so poorly compared to when he first got into the team.
Hopefully this transfer window we do our deals at the start of January not on the last day. We need some injection of quality amongst the dross that we have in our team/squad.
0


forallthesaints added 19:21 - Dec 29

The referee was dreadful from start to finish (I gave him a 2 for turning up on time). It seems we are the dirtiest side in the league when I feel we are the most naïve, constantly getting caught by the diving and whining antics of the bigger clubs. As a result I have rated every Chelsea player that dived or made the most of any contact in order to get a free kick as a 3/10. There were 8 of them. We may have got lucky with the penalty shout but Fabregas was in the ref's face all day so he got what was coming to him.
As for Saints - we defended brilliantly except for the goal when people stood back from Hazard, the best player on the pitch on the day. All those in the back-line deserve great credit and Targett is a great prospect. Maya's first touch was good and Toby and the good Jose were as solid as ever. Mane is an enigmas... he can really turn it on and be breathtaking but his concentration drifts and he should be hassling the defenders a bit more. I felt for Pelle yesterday - he seemed a lonely figure with no one reading his nods even though he won most in the air.
All in all a terrific defensive display under intense pressure and our players did well to keep their cool when the Cheatski prima donnas were falling all around them at the slightest breath of air.
0


tsbains64 added 15:41 - Dec 30

poor game but got away with a point as I thought Bartons tackle was worth a penalty at the end
Great crowd and thought the players gave it their all
Mid season -this is a good place to be but need to collect a few scalps away from home while getting wins at home-going to be toough but it always is for the Rssss
0


Dennick added 17:51 - Jan 1

What a disaster, we were bloody awful last time out and for much of the second half today not much better, this should have been put out of Swansea's reach before the hour mark . Most were no doubt happy ( as I was) at half time with a team effort so much different to the wasted opportunity against Palace.
Content with a one goal lead it seems we made the game one that was there for the Swansea to take and with only fifteen to twenty minutes of real effort on their part they could have done and very nearly did.
On balance early on we probably deserved three points up until and when Zamora was substituted when we in effect played with ten men, Routledge's dismissal simply evened the status quo.
When Swansea lifted their tempo we failed to respond, overall 4 points from the last three games is an abject failure but that's all that can be expected by simply belting a long ball out of defense at every opportunity as is our current strategy( or lack of it) all to often . very disappointed, no game plan, not much on field leadership.
0


corkcitysaint added 10:48 - Jan 2

Best result of the season, IMO. Team showed great character and this should be a huge confidence boost for the games ahead. To a man they couldn't be faulted. A huge pat on the back for Mane. Great goal. Even the Invisible Man (Tadic) got a goal.. Only critique and maybe I'm being greedy is I thought we should of had at least 2 more. JWP in the first half and Pelle in the 2nd.

We defended really well and never let Arsenal get in behind us. I heard Whinger saying they had the better chances but I don't believe that. A couple of long range efforts that Forster dealt with comfortably. They had more possession yes but they never really threatened and we didn't look shaky.

I don't think we'll get the praise we deserve from this game. Had we lost, the press would have again mentioned how we haven't beaten any of the tops clubs etc etc. Now that we have, it's all about how Arsenal made mistakes.

Still, let's hope we remain under the radar!
3


sidsaint added 10:49 - Jan 2

Great all round performance. I've never given higher ratings throughout the team. I thought Wanyama was immense running that area of the field on his own. If Pelle had had his shooting boots on we could have won by 4/5. Now we know we can beat the top 4 teams. What a great couple of weeks we have had.
1


rangers74 added 10:57 - Jan 2

Felt like a defeat at the final whistle, and two points dropped. But on reflection with the Green incident especially, we could have been down to ten men very early, it might turn out to be a point gained. The small section of fans booing when Hoilett came on were disgraceful. Really helped his performance didn't it? I tonight Harry could have "broken up" the three mins injury time by making at least one change, Onohua or Ferdinand for Vargas, just to halt Swansea's momentum. Isla and Henry had their best games in QPR shirts in my opinion and I thought Dunne was outstanding too. Charlie looked tired and was not at his usual very high standard, but I think we can let him off that after all he has done so far this season. Definitely need a good winger and a pacy striker in this window, to compliment what we have already. It's going to be a rollercoaster between now and May, lots of ups and downs, so buckle up and enjoy the ride!
0


paulfuller added 11:20 - Jan 2

Great result and well deserved. Struggled to keep the ball on occasions (as did Arsenal) and on the plus side created lots of chances and could have had 4 or 5 goals. Key moment Forster save from Cazorla (?) downfield to Wanyama touched onto Davis equisite control before passing across 6 yard box poked home by Tadic. Wanyama my man of match after getting booked a quarter way into match however, was a man mountain afterwards and didn't put a foot wrong - him and Davis most improved players this season. Fans were fantastic and must have given the players a boost.
2


tsbains64 added 11:43 - Jan 2

Great game just a shame about the result but in the past we have been lucky so it was about time things caught up with us ie Palace late penalty shout and WBA hitting th epost in the dying seconds
Great goal from Fer who had a great game Impressed with Henrys and Bartons work rate in midefield if only their passing was better....
Swansea had the opportunities to win this easily and their late goal was derserved
Watched this from high in the T block -pretty supportive crowd!
Seen enough to ensure we stay up but it will be close as no one else seems to be giving up
0


jameslastfan added 12:17 - Jan 2

0


SaintGeorge added 12:26 - Jan 2

Fantastic match - best this season. Vic was MOTM easily but I thought JWP was absolutely superb - he and Tadic really understand each other (did you see that little sequence of one-twos down the wing?).

Davis brilliant, Bertrand brilliant, Gardos brilliant (and well lucky), Toby brilliant, team effort brilliant. People say Arsenal were crap but that's because we made them look crap.

VERY happy to have to eat my words about Mané - he's bloody BRILLIAAAANT!!!
3


Geoff78 added 13:24 - Jan 2

Battling defensive performance. Thought we held out well until Bony came on and needed another central defender then. Charlie and Bobby had a poor day but can forgive them that. And of course Greeno lucky to stay on the pitch. Good to see Clint doing OK against Routledge. Thought that might have been a mismatch.

Main problem was poor passing and lack of mobility in midfield, although Joey and Karl worked their socks off. Although he was awful when he came on Hoillet does offer something different when we're under the cosh and we needed to change things.
0


SaintGeorge added 13:47 - Jan 2

Fantastic match - best this season. Vic was MOTM easily but I thought JWP was absolutely superb - he and Tadic really understand each other (did you see that little sequence of one-twos down the wing?).

Davis brilliant, Bertrand brilliant, Gardos brilliant (and well lucky), Toby brilliant, team effort brilliant. People say Arsenal were crap but that's because we made them look crap.

VERY happy to have to eat my words about Mané - he's bloody BRILLIAAAANT!!!
1


gpsgm added 15:10 - Jan 2

Some stand-out performances in defence with everyone contributing. Victor held the whole thing together in the middle and on a yellow for 70mins (unjustly) which is amazing. JWP involved in both goals I think. Steve D never stopped. Sadio was on fire, amazing goal. Pelle's link play was good, but he REALLY needs to stick the ball in the net. Harrison Reed is clearly a Duracell Bunny in disguise and can think, tackle and pass.

Re: Saints in exile, Theo never plays against us, I think he was happy we won. Alex shows a worrying lack of loyalty by looking like he's trying to score against us and why does Callum get booed, what did he do different?
2


TijuanaTim added 02:40 - Jan 3

Professional win, with better finishing it coulda been ugly for the Arsenal
0


superhoopdownunder added 05:48 - Jan 3

Green very lucky not to be sent off
We needed to take one of the plenty of chances we had after taking the lead.
Charlie Austin has looked tired and out of sorts the past few games.
Glad Bony did not start the game.
Happy to take a point against Swansea although disappointing the way the game ended.
0


Swissdale added 20:14 - Jan 3

Very happy with the result. Forest were dreadful though, set pieces for them in particular were a shambles.
0


builthjack added 21:35 - Jan 3

Plenty of Swans support, a good atmosphere in the away end. 9 changes made by Monk, but there was only one team in it for the majority of the game. Tranmeres goals were a mistake by Tremmel, and poor marking for their 2nd. The Swans took their chances well, Gomis looking hungry and strong, and Tiendalli stepping into the left back slot to put pressure on Taylor for a starting place. Some of the young lads showed some positive signs, I am sure a few will feature more as the season goes on.Routledge came on midway through the second half and did well on the left, causing problems for the home defence. Carroll had a solid game in midfield, will surely be in the starting line up next week.
All in all, a good solid performance by the team, and a well deserved win.
0


Geoff78 added 16:15 - Jan 4

Abject and humiliating performance. Sheff Utd passed the ball well, usually to someone with the same colour shirt in contrast to the Rs, and showed pace and mobility. The most worrying thing was it looked like Harry wanted to win given the substitutions he made.

The whole team were poor. Only ones worth this weeks wages were possibly Phillips and Vargas.

But I should have known and stayed at home on a brass monkey of a day. Can't be worse away to Burnley... can we?? Err think I may know the answer to that.
0


romfordranger added 16:46 - Jan 4

Made the right decision today and stayed at home, didn't see a cup shock happening, that is QPR actually winning. Our FA cup record over the years is truely awful, why do we even bother. Most of the players couldn't be bothered either, a mate had my ticket who supports Dagenham & Redbridge, and we reasons even they would have beaten us today. Just the league relegation battle to look forward to now, how do we improve our away form. I don't honestly think Arry knows what to do, the players just look beaten before the end of the game on our travels. We have a chronic shortage of striking options and he was wasting money on Sandro and McCarthy rather than bringing in another striker before the season started. Now he needs to bring at least two loanee strikers in but the whole squad looks poor. Today showed that, no one out of the first team really making a case for a starting position. It looks grim at the moment and with WBA and Palace likely to see an improvement in form under new managers I just can't see 3 clubs below us come end of season. By the way, Happy New Year to all Rss fans, sorry to be such a miserable git.
0


WestSussexSaint added 18:32 - Jan 4

The performance wasn't that bad but Ipswich were well organised and decided to play for the draw in th second half. If we were guilty of anything it was over playing the flicks etc in the final third when at times being a bit more direct may have produced a better result. I think we will win the replay as Ipswich will come out and play a bit more so there will be more space to exploit.
0


BromleyHoop added 21:32 - Jan 4

I think these are the lowest player ratings I've ever given. Hoilett a 3!! MOTM today was Henry omly because he kept it very simple and played his role as a defensive centre mid reasonably well. He was by no means spectacular and had a minimal influence on the game but he was cleRly our best player. Ferdinand was really surprisingly bad. Pace gone and lacked any authority at the back. Very frustrating and sad to watch.
0


Royboy48 added 22:48 - Jan 4

I can scarcely bring myself to rate this bunch of witless wasters

An insult to us fans

Well done Blades, you maxed out on the opportunity
0


Burnleyhoop added 23:20 - Jan 4

Not sure how Harry can blame fatigue, seven of this team have been sat on their arses for most of the season. One team wanted it more than the other....all too familiar and unless we show up at Burnley, we are in for an embarrassing spanking. Shocking but not remotely surprising.
0


aceofthebase added 08:33 - Jan 5

Overtime needed!
0


Consigliere added 09:41 - Jan 5

Apart from JWP being a bit off the pace, there was nothing really wrong with Saints' performance in this game except that it was - well a bit boring frankly. Most of the press reports have made the same point - that Ipswich parked the tractor - and that is true especially in the second half where any shot on target was unlikely to hit the back of the net simply by virtue of the mass of bodies in the way. This is a game we ought to win on the replay, especially if Clyne is back to unlock their defence, but I don't think that many of us will fancy the long trip to East Anglia (and Ipswich is even less attractive than Sheffield if that might be thought possible). Full marks to young Master Isgrove by the way - a raw talent with masses of potential. The management must strive to hold on to him.
2


halftimeorange added 09:41 - Jan 5

I think the team was set up incorrectly for this match. James W-P certainly isn't a right back and looked to be a fish out of water. Playing Long on the right wing was a waste of what talent he has. Pelle consequently had no-one running off him (not that he won too much in the air) and when he did it was invariably Steven Davis. Davis was my man of the match for Saints but he's no opportunist. I thought Morgan's display was lethargic and goodness knows what's happened to Tadic! Maybe the pace of English football has taken its toll. After twenty minutes he was largely ineffectual. Another nice cameo from a younger player, this time Isgrove. A sort of footballing Sonic. It was obvious before half-time that we couldn't beat Ipswich in the air so why all the high crosses. Their GK didn't have to come for anything. But the real problem was no width or pace on the wings until Isgrove appeared. James W-P wouldn't take on his man and did what Fernandes used to do ten years ago - always cutting inside and running up a cul-de-sac. Have to say that Martin Atkinson was one of the better referees we've seen this season although we might have had a penalty for a foul on Long given outside the box. Wanyama and Bertrand tried hard, sadly Fonte made a few errors in passing again but they didn't cost us. Ipswich will come at us in the replay and if we play the ball on the ground and start with pace on the wings we should have too much for them. Mings looked a good prospect. Pity he's not a RB, would have been good cover for Clyne. I presume Toby didn't play RB as he was being saved for MU.
2


Harbour added 11:28 - Jan 5

awful performance. dreadful defending for the goals and all round lack of effort skill by the rs Sheff U played well and deserved the win. dreadful atmosphere in LR crowd dulled by performance other than great support from the away end who supported their team for whole 90 minutes. Caulker had a mare. Hoilet could not get a cross in and Rio Mutch and Mc Carthy looked more League 2 players . other than sitting in SAR in platinum seat with leg room instead of upper loft for the first time was a dreadful waste of an afternoon
0


SuffolkHoop added 12:40 - Jan 5

This performance was about as disinterested and lethargic as it is possible to be. One of the worst QPR performances I've ever seen live for a number of reasons. Totally outclassed and out thought by a team from two divisions below. An embarrassment to behold. Would playing the kids have done Redknapp any harm?
0


tsbains64 added 15:01 - Jan 5

got blown away by a more committed team. QPR put a good team out but they just didi not gel-surprised as I thought Rio would have brought some leadership
0


toboboly added 15:18 - Jan 5

I went. We were terrible, not lethargic, just completely inept.
0


stneotsbloke added 18:59 - Jan 5

I don't think anyone was expecting much but this was just dreadful. In my 47 years supporting R's I have never given any manager any real stick but when is everyone in the football world going to realise that Harry R is an old school manger who simply can't build or motivate a team. I was delighted when he came here two years ago but apart from moving on the dead wood what has he really achieved - apart from bringing in more dead wood !!.
He's regarded as a hero for getting us promoted but let's be fair, we should have walked into the Prem last year and were lucky to get over the line. R's will never move forward while Harry is in charge and we're heading for a very rapid return the Championship.
And as for Hoilett (or should it be Toilet !!) he has never produced anything of note for Rangers and, together with several others, should be banished forever.
Notwithstanding all that, I'll be there as usual cheering and supporting the team against Man U.
0


gpsgm added 21:04 - Jan 5

I find this a difficult one for ratings as we played 'ok' and this was a tricky tie with a confident championship team. I've seen us play much worse in similar games and win. So the issue is really that all our defensive players were fine and Victor MOTM for me again. Steve Davis really industrious and had a good game. EXCEPT we didn't score the 2nd goal and that is a failing in our attacking play. Usually Prem finishing beats Champ work-rate and that didn't happen. I love Stevo but he missed another one-on-one and Pelle can't score for toffee. Mind you I haven't watched the highlights yet and I'm expecting to see 2 cast-iron penalties that Shane should have had. What have refs got against the boy? He gets kicked all over the place and barely gets anything.
0


062259 added 22:03 - Jan 10

http://www.bbc.com/sport/0/football/30663821

Check out Redknapp's interview on the BBC website, linked above.

He has the gall to say that QPR finished behind Burnley last season and they are behind them this season with basically the same group of players. How stupid does he think we are?

Harry, compared to Sandro, Mutch, Fer, Isla, Vargas, Ferdinand, Caulker, McCarthy and Zarate, who exactly have Burnley brought in this season?

Did I hear you say George Boyd?

Harry, you are not fit to lick Sean Dyche's boots.

Fellow fans, get used to the bottom three. We're here to stay.
0


superhoopdownunder added 00:57 - Jan 12

For some reason there are no player rating options available - only the referee and match rating - can this be fixed please?
0


smiffdub added 15:22 - Jan 12

Tactical perfection from Koeman, holding the line in midfield for most of then game and then springing Tadic. Tactical silliness from MU, playing di Maria upfront and leaving Wanyama and Schneiderlin to run the midfield, which they did almost without breaking a sweat. The two subs, Gardos and Tadic, my MOMs. In a weekend when everyone is complaining about the standards of refereeing, this one was (and often is) especially poor. How did Rooney go unpunished when he cut down Davis from behind? And why wasn't Smalling caught for all that holding that he has to do to disguise the fact that he's just not very good? But ref aside, major and historic win for the Saints coming at the perfect time.
4


SaintGeorge added 16:20 - Jan 12

Superb display - all the papers banging on about how rubbish Utd were, but the truth is Saints were just better. The defence was as close as I've seen to a perfect performance in any match ever — one wayward kick from Forster following an unnecessary pass-back being the only error I can recall.
3


Bison added 16:51 - Jan 12

Brilliant performance and result , did think we played within ourselves a bit. There was more in the tank for sure.
1


VancouverSaint added 17:38 - Jan 12

What an arrogant ass LVG is. He was out classed/played by RK in both our matches. Said we were lucky, I didn't see any luck in our goal at all, it was well executed. Van Persie was the lucky one in our last game. LVG just hates Ronald outdoing him. We have certainly the team to keep us in the top four, barring major injuries or suspensions. Like to keep it going with a win at Newcastle, then it gets a little easier for a while. Still would like more firepower up front this window. Elia looks like he could be a handful. He looked confident and well suited to fit in. I loved the congrats he gave Tadic after the game, looked genuine.
Onwards and upwards!
5


IanRC added 20:47 - Jan 13

Sniff dub agree entirely about the Davies challenge and Smalling's, bet we wouldn't have got the benefit of the situations had been reversed. Needless to say no comment on the media of those 'challenges' and MOTD didn't even shown the Rooney sycthe tackle. Just as well Davies not seriously injured.
0


patred added 22:19 - Jan 14

wasn't pretty, but we got Palace at home next round, and that's what counts.
0


sidsaint added 22:52 - Jan 14

Not a great game but we were composed and controlled it from start to finish. Great reaction by Long for the goal. Wanyama injury another concern.
0


TimSaint added 10:23 - Jan 15

We did enough and only Jose, Vic, Davis and Long were the stand out performers.

There were too many that didn't look interested and too many that were looking uncomfortable on the ball, due to conditions and the lack of time on the ball.

I am not sure why both Targett and Bertrand were playing. The first half at Sheff Utd proved that they can't both play in the same team. This time Matt moved to the midfield role, but failed to get into the game and made very little impact.

I know the conditions were not great and the pitch had been ploughed and watered before the game, but we should have done a bit more all round.

Maybe it was part of Koeman's master plan - show the nation and Newcastle how poor we are and then take them to the cleaners !! :-)

Job done - We March On !!
0


halftimeorange added 13:33 - Jan 15

To say that some players looked disinterested is hugely incorrect.Gardos and Reed were also up for this game and of those who didn't shine there was an excuse for Targett as he is not a midfielder, anymore than Ward-Prowse was a right-back a couple of games ago and Forster had hardly anything to do. It's a wonder the bloke hasn't caught a chill standing arounde in the last few games. There is something wrong with Tadic. Although he scored at Old Trafford he is not the same man as he was two months ago. He seemed to have a back or hip injury yesterday. The referee was the best we have seen all season in my opinion.
0


PezzaSaint added 14:25 - Jan 15

Mounting injuries again becoming a worry, particularly as they are being sustained by a lot of our big game players, Alderweireld, Schneiderlin and now Victor Wanyama. Not sure Jack Cork, JWP or Steven Davis can do the enforcer role in midfield like Morgan and Vic do? Step up Harry, your time has arrived!
0


gpsgm added 16:56 - Jan 15

Well, job done but I can't say I enjoyed it. Can't criticise much defensively, but going forward, apart from Shane's constant work rate and well taken goal, I can't really say anything. So many players didn't look comfortable in their roles - Ryan as a CB, Matt & Nat as wing backs, Dusan in the front 2. Don't know why, did we miss Morgan that much?

Interesting to see how we cope without Morgan, Victor and Toby for a few weeks. Our top 4 position is going to be tough to maintain without them. (Please no more injuries!!!)
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corkcitysaint added 18:34 - Jan 15

A woeful match to be honest but it was really just a case of getting the job done and moving on. Well taking goal by Long. Very instinctive. I didn't think he had actually scored as the reaction seemed a bit muted. After that it was just about keeping it tight.

Didn't think the formation worked too well. Seemed a bit unbalanced in midfield to me. Strange to see 2 upfront !! Full credit to Long, chased and harried all night. You won't get many doing that on a cold, windy night !!

Good to see Gardos get some game time. Needs to work on his passing / distribution from the back though. Has a tendency to "hoof' the ball forward and give a way possession imo. Also, I believe he is a bit error prone but I think he will improve with more games.

Losing big Vic is a blow for a few weeks. It also looked like Tadic, Long & Bertrand had a few niggles at the end too. Let's hope they are nothing serious.

Onwards and upwards.
0


WestSussexSaint added 20:23 - Jan 17

Another solid display, controlling the game and doing just enough for the win. Elia was very impressive not just in the way he took the goals but his overall work rate.

For fear of sounding like a stuck record, Harrison Reed impressed again.
1


sidsaint added 21:12 - Jan 17

Not pretty but job done yet again. A disciplined, controlled confident team performance. Elia looks an excellent signing, great substitutions and Koeman's stock rises yet again. What a manager.
1


gpsgm added 21:43 - Jan 17

So no Morgan, Victor, Toby and yet we can still match a good Newcastle team away from home.
Great team performance, particularly Jose, Harry Eljero.
Ron plays it right again.
Bit drunk, very happy.
0


Consigliere added 21:57 - Jan 17

When reflecting on what seemed to me to be a pretty evenly contested game with some mistakes by Saints players, I thought it might be worthwhile to consider what the other side thought about it. With this in mind I have just read the report (and a few of the fans comments) in the Newcastle Chronicle, and boy, are they unhappy! Not, as you might suppose, with the claim for handball against Fonte (it wasn't) nor about alleged fouls given or not given, but rather with their own management and team performance. The dismissal of Pardew has not been not universally welcomed in the north east and the performance of the team has less than impressed the locals. In short, they blame their management for secrecy and short sightedness and their players for poor performance, and I detected more than a grudging respect for the Saints from the blogs. Many (perhaps even most) of them regard us a very good side indeed and are rather pleased that Southampton are mixing it with the big boys. It is sometimes easy to under-estimate your own team's performance and to see faults when others see success. So, before anyone posts anything negative about today's game, (and I can't imagine that anyone seriously would do so) take a moment to think about how others see us. Then celebrate another famous win!
1


TimSaint added 08:06 - Jan 18

OK so some desperate defending at times and we got a little bit of fortune for once, but another great win - without many key players !!!
We got a little lucky with our 2nd goal and we gifted Newcastle their goal, but considering our resources, this was a well planned and well executed win at a place where it is difficult to pick up points.
Lots of people in the media and on forums mention the penalty and yes, it should have been given. It does not mean that they necessarily score from it though and if you remember back to the SMS game, Shane got punched in the head by Krull in the box, for a definite penalty and perhaps and red card - so things perhaps do even themselves out.
Good to see Swans lose yesterday, so hopefully we can dish out a similar result to them in our next league game :-)
People are beginning to finally believe we are the real deal at the top, so let's push onwards. It was just a shame that none of the other results went our way yesterday :-(

0


davepid added 08:41 - Jan 18

This was a similar performance to many of late - accomplished rather than dominant - but well deserved. And this was done without Morgan or Wanyama , Our defending on the edge of the box is fantastic , meaning Forster has virtually nothing to do. Positives - Reed came of age, Pelle was a very good front man, Long a super sub , Ella's goals well taken and Cork is back.
Concerns - Forsters lack of control for their goal ( did he shout). Didn't cost us today but could have done.
0


sfcdaz added 08:50 - Jan 18

Wasnt a great game to watch but we had enough quality to see off a team that didn't really show much competition, deserved 3 points (just) but after 3 tough away games we walk away with 6 points and 4th round in the cup, bring on palace and another tough test against an unpredictable swansea side
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Harbour added 09:09 - Jan 18

put a shift in bit unlucky to not get anything goalies kept both sides in it. austin unlu cky not to score. why no zarate...tarat did ok fer had a mare.
0


TimSaint added 09:11 - Jan 18

Oh I forgot to mention that having now reached 42 points, THE SAINTS ARE STAYING UP !!!

.........and staying in the North East area, it reminds me of the article that was based on an interview / quote from Adam Johnson, the Sunderland player. He said just after we had put an unanswered 8 goals past his team, that Saints were still very much in a relegation battle and one good result didn't make them safe or exempt from the relegation battle.

Let's take a look then Adam. We have 42 points and are safe. Yes you scored the winner in the victory at Newcastle (but hey, who doesn't win there !!), but your team has 20 points from 22 games and with only 16 left, your current points to games ratio may suggest you will struggle to reach the magic 40 point mark. Maybe you will be safe, come the end of the season, but I think you now need a very large slice of humble pie with regard to your Saints comments :-)
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corkcitysaint added 09:44 - Jan 18

Had the match ended 1-1, it would have been Krull on Saints (pun intended..) Freaky goal and I wonder did Forster shout? In that kind of situation, you'd expect the keeper to come and take out the ball and players. Maybe I'm being overly harsh.

Overall, another confident, solid, professional display, miles away from home in the cold. Newcastle whilst they huffed and puffed never really threatened. A lot of high balls in but that was it. It was quite an open game and the ref let a lot go which was good to see as it wasn't a dirty game. As for the "penalty" I think it would have been harsh. With the ball being shot at Fonte from close range, it is a tricky one. Well done ref..

Again, another signing that has seemed to slot straight into the side and hit the ground running. Elia looks a decent player and seems to be quite humble in his interviews. He could be a big player for us in the run in.

I felt sorry for Pelle. He has really grafted in the games gone by and has done an excellent job that whilst it isn't really glamorous, the hold up play is very important. I would have loved him to have scored yesterday and hope he will soon.

A big mention to Harry Reed. For a young kid to come into the side and play like he's a seasoned pro is impressive. Keeps his head down and gets on with it. What impressed me most yesterday was he was "switched on" when Newcastle looked to take a short corner. He was the first Saint to react and run out to close down. Good match awareness.

And to end, nice to see the yellow shirts!!
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SaintNick added 09:57 - Jan 18

Having had the benefit of TV replay two points to note, firstly Forster did the right thing and would have smothered the ball had Gardos not cleared, Gardos was doing the positive thing he was just unlucky that it hit Gouffran who got lucky because he hadn't really tried to get the through ball, he had given up on I.

Secondly the penalty was nailed on Fonte although at close range stuck his hand out to stop it, when the guy shot his hand was by his side then he stuck it up, sorry nailed on penalty, however it is about time we had Some luck lol
0


bermudajack added 10:42 - Jan 18

Outclassed, outfought, outhought throughout, no complaints with the result, gifted them 3 goals, heads dropped, no effort, no clue. 😡😡😡

Monk needs to take a long look at himself after this. Selling Bony won't help his cause, Gomis completely different type of player to Bony... Adjustments needed and no shots on goal for 90 mins in a home game where all the pressure is on Chelsea and we have nothing to lose... Says it all 😳😳😳

Worst home performance in years
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olderR added 12:35 - Jan 18

The first half intensity was almost to the standard of the last few home games of Hughes's first season.
We couldn't maintain it in the second half and their change of formation gave them the edge.
Would have liked Adel to have started to have go at them a bit more as it was always a game we would struggle to get something from.
Play like this every week please.
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kirbys added 15:53 - Jan 18

Once the conditions were tested, it was at times so one sided we spectators deserved a rebate and the Crawley bravehearts should have their travel expenses paid as their team spent 70% of the match getting behind the ball and admiring the passing abilities of Dale.
A brief flurry of ambition came when Saunders decided to give his subs a training run in the snow, but it was a very one sided affair. Highlights were the midfield dominance of Camps, Bennet and Dawson plus the best showing from Andrews since joining Dale.
0


10i added 15:38 - Jan 19

Right Nick - Forster did right in coming out on the through ball, just don't know if he did have the confident shout he should have made. On the other hand Gardos tried to clear it, which is very understandable as the defenders learn how a GK plays and reacts to situations. Forster often stays on his line with crosses and through balls that he may go for, so the defenders learn that they need to deal with these balls as the GK doesn't...
Maybe bad luck - but yeah, really good footballers should be aware of what his teammates are doing, even if it might be "unusual"...

And yes, it should have been a penalty...
0


tsbains64 added 18:26 - Jan 19

A good performance but Utd seem to have the edge in the second half Good to see the crowd appreciate the effort. Shame Vargas did not square the ball.....
Play like this and we will have a great chance of staying in this leage
0


Consigliere added 19:25 - Jan 24

A very disappointing outcome and a missed opportunity given that Chelsea, City and Spurs all lost. The reasons we lost are largely twofold: (1) The midfield were not up to scratch and (2) Palace were very good. Its when we don't have Wanyama, Alderewald and Schneiderlin in the team that you realise how very important they are. The net result was that Clyne and to a lesser extent Betrand couldn't afford to get into advanced positions, and the attacking options were mostly snuffed out. That being said, congratulations are due to Palace - well set up in defence and aggressive in attack. Pardew has done well in the short time he has been there.
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halftimeorange added 19:55 - Jan 24

Are we looking for scapegoats? Our midfield didn't perform, our defence was bullied, our GK didn't hold the ball when he might have done. On the plus side, Pelle tried very hard, Elia really wanted to win as was shown by his display of temper when Hennessey saved his rasping second-half drive. Unfortunately, a number of our European colleagues fell over far too easily. The fight needed against an aggressive Palace just wasn't there. What has happened to Tadic? He just isn't doing it. Things perked up a bit with Long's arrival. Such a shame about his injury. In hindsight Reed might have been a more hostile defender than an off-colour Jack Cork. A bad day at the office.
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sidsaint added 11:46 - Jan 25

Well done to Pardew and Palace. Set up with attack in mind and plenty of speed our defence were poor and we didn't seem to have the concentration and tightness that we usually show. Lets hope we get back to normal next week as Swansea also look to be in disarray at the moment.
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gpsgm added 11:55 - Jan 25

We missed Morgan, Victor and Toby big-time in this game. Amazing we have done so well without them. Maybe a mistake to play Corky and not Harry given he always takes time to get back to match fitness. A lot of mixed performances here but best players for me were Jose, Graziano, JWP and Elia. Elia really shouldn't have been stuck on the touchline all the time, he's just scored 2 against Newcastle through the middle, what was he doing out there? We gave the ball away under no pressure at times and often when Nat & Ryan were forward so we were immediately stretched. Dusan? If things aren't going well then work harder and they will get better. Big job for Ronald to get him back in form. (You missed a sub Nick - Ryan Seager)
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Bobtheretiredbroker added 17:14 - Jan 25

Orlandi's goal was well taken and reflected a bright opening by 'Pool. After that we went into our shell, and rode our luck as Watford pressed and looked increasingly dangerous, but just could not find their final pass.
Parish looked competent and Peter Clarke was as determined as ever, even if he is not the defender he once was. Our second goal was a major surprise and very much against the run of play. A good cross from McMahon, arguably the only thing he got right all afternoon, and even then Davies nearly squandered the chance before slotting home at the second attempt.
A straw poll of those I spoke to at half time showed the majority would be happy with a point, which says a lot about the state of our club with a two goal first half lead for the first time this season.
In the event, even that relatively downbeat assessment proved to be over ambitious after a horrendous start to the second half with three goals conceded in the first nine minutes and two more in the next twelve !
All the goals were at the far end so it was difficult for me to pinpoint individual errors but as a defensive unit we were simply overrun, our tackling and marking was non existent and every attempted clearance went to a Watford man. Peter Clarke was taken off after colliding with a post trying to keep out their third (shades of Gary Briggs) and his reluctance to leave the field was a tribute to his commitment. You had to feel sorry for Niall Maher, his replacement, coming on for his debut in such circumstances.
I really can't find the words to describe it, but "abject, irresponsible, incompetent and totally inept" come to mind. I have seen many bad defeats over the 50 plus years I have followed the 'Pool, including the infamous 0-7 at Barnet, but nothing quite like this.
The cancer that exists at the top of our club has now spread to all corners and I am humiliated and embarrassed to have witnessed yesterday's debacle. As I left the ground I chatted to a young lad, who I think was a pal of Islam Feruz. His take on our second half capitulation was that it was akin
to match fixing !
In a sense, he was right. The Oystons have fixed it so that all our hopes, dreams, and pride in our beloved club have been destroyed and I fear it will only get worse in the months ahead.
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TimSaint added 20:37 - Jan 25

Far too many under-performers On the pitch, no fluidity, nobody staying back in the defensive midfield role and giving the ball away far too cheaply. This together with a Palace wanting it more, gave us the inevitable result.
We have done well without Toby, Vic and Morgan previously, but this was just a bridge too far and because others were not performing, their absence was further highlighted.
At the time I was gutted to lose, (especially with who is left in the last 16) but I am over it and now we can focus on not only the league, but getting our depleted squad back to full fitness.
Hopefully Shane is not too badly injured and won't be out for too many weeks, but this may force Koeman into the transfer market. Yoshi will be back to England this week. Mane played on Friday, so hopefully he is fit now and will be back to continue where he left off. There is a!so the potential that Toby, Vic and Morgan will be back for Swansea or the week after.
Let's all march on with one common goal

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Recoilboss added 06:18 - Feb 1

(⌘ c) Copy , (⌘ v) Paste.

Harry Out…
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corkcitysaint added 19:41 - Feb 1

Naturally, a disappointing result. Again, failing to take our chances cost us. I wish JWP had got a pair of scoring boots for Christmas… A dominant display in the 1st half but we really needed to score during this period as you knew Swansea would change things at half time. I thought with them coming at us a bit more it would open the game up which would suit us as we find it hard to break teams down. The final ball again missing for us. It can be a bit frustrating at times as we seem to want to walk the ball into the net. Again, we failed to take advantage of any corners or free kicks. In defensive games like this one, a set piece can be the difference but we never game close.

To be fair to Swansea, they defended well, were well drilled and scored a good goal. We had a warning earlier when they hit the post as we failed to close them down. A real sucker punch goal. As for the sending off, harsh I thought.

A bad weekend all round unfortunately what with the other results. I hope we don't get a bit nervy now and feel the pressure. It is a case of having to remain confident and grind out the wins. I'd settle for an ugly win. Next week would do..

c'mon lads!!

1


WestSussexSaint added 19:52 - Feb 1

If JWP is going to play in the "no. 10" role he has got to be more clinical in front of goal. He had at least 3 good chances to put us ahead. Had at least 1 gone in then it would have changed the game and forced Swansea to come out and play. Tadic in particular was wasteful with the final ball.
2


TimSaint added 21:03 - Feb 1

Further frustrations following the flop against Palace, but at least we managed to score in that game.

They say goals change games and how spot on that was today.

Early dominance and not taking our chances allowed Swans to get back into the game, albeit on the break, but we watched as Shelvey fired in a warning shot against the post, then the same thing happened and he gave FF the chance to make the only save he needed to make all game. Nuff said.

We again thought that we only had to turn up to win, but we were too patient, too predictable and played into their hands far to often.

Tadic needs to be dropped. He was so poor in 2nd half and always cut back onto his left foot and crossed either at the keeper or behind everyone. He was so slow when we tried to break quickly and usually cut back in, waited for a pass and then allowed the defence to get back. Mane should start next week and perhaps Tadic can be an impact sub, like he was at Old Trafford.

Seeing the Bertrand incident from my seat in the Fam Centre, i didn't think it was a foul as he played the ball first and having watched it on tv, he did get the ball and then the man, but a booking would have been harsh, let alone a red. I expect an appeal - especially when you have Vertongen getting away with strangle holds in the cup in the week !!!

Koeman said on the radio that the luckier team won, which is fair I guess - but it was similar to what we did to them in Wales, or to Man U at OT perhaps. At least he accepted it graciously and didn't have a whole list of excuses - like Monk always does and LVG at Man U for that matter :-)
2


aceofthebase added 22:17 - Feb 1

Tadic is useless on the right, and maybe even on the left. He should not be in the starting eleven.
We need to get some more shots on goal and JWP needs to learn how to put the ball in the net.

We outplayed The Swans but they got the goal. To think that I said during the first half that this was the best I had seen Saints play for some considerable time. Apart from the above our team played well, second half we started too casually but surely we should have won this game.
1


sidsaint added 22:53 - Feb 1

Goals win matches not possession. Good defensive display, midfield should have Morgan and Victor back next week. Pelle needs support, someone to knock balls down to who can score, if we do not get a forward in on Monday and something happens to Pelle then the lack of depth in the squad will be clear for all to see.
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TimSaint added 23:57 - Feb 1

Further frustrations following the flop against Palace, but at least we managed to score in that game.

They say goals change games and how spot on that was today.

Early dominance and not taking our chances allowed Swans to get back into the game, albeit on the break, but we watched as Shelvey fired in a warning shot against the post, then the same thing happened and he gave FF the chance to make the only save he needed to make all game. Nuff said.

We again thought that we only had to turn up to win, but we were too patient, too predictable and played into their hands far to often.

Tadic needs to be dropped. He was so poor in 2nd half and always cut back onto his left foot and crossed either at the keeper or behind everyone. He was so slow when we tried to break quickly and usually cut back in, waited for a pass and then allowed the defence to get back. Mane should start next week and perhaps Tadic can be an impact sub, like he was at Old Trafford.

Seeing the Bertrand incident from my seat in the Fam Centre, i didn't think it was a foul as he played the ball first and having watched it on tv, he did get the ball and then the man, but a booking would have been harsh, let alone a red. I expect an appeal - especially when you have Vertongen getting away with strangle holds in the cup in the week !!!

Koeman said on the radio that the luckier team won, which is fair I guess - but it was similar to what we did to them in Wales, or to Man U at OT perhaps. At least he accepted it graciously and didn't have a whole list of excuses - like Monk always does and LVG at Man U for that matter :-)
1


TimSaint added 09:44 - Feb 2

Can't wait for Toby to return. We were too light weight in defence and despite often 3 men close to Gomis, we usually stood off him and allowed him a free header/chest/control every time. With Gomis, Shelvey and Williams, the Swans had 3 good performers in the spine of their team. We did not have these, despite creating enough chances to win the game. Hopefully we will look more solid in the upcoming fixtures against more physical opponents :-)
With Morgan and Vic back, Shelvey would never have had a clear run for his shot against the post (Reed just trotted back with no challenge, when everyone else in the stadium expected a shot) and Vic / Morgan would have been closed down the goal too. Ron had gambled for the win by then though, taking off Reed for Mane, in the hope we would get that vital goal. Ok it backfired, but can see why he took the risk.
Seeing some of the prem stats this morning, we were in the top 5 from all teams, in terms of possession, shots, shots on target and passes - but no result - which was often the case under, dare I say MoPo :-)
The media are really having a go today as well. Typically the anti-Saints writers are back. We lose a game we should have won and despite it being our first loss in 7, our bubble has burst and now Arsenal, Spurs and Liverpool are all going to overtake us and we will be lucky to finish 7th !!

On to the transfer window and sky sports say Ron will definitely sign 1, if not 2 today - no surprise to see these are the Serb Djuricic (loan) and Dutchman Tonny Vilhena (somewhere between £3m - £5m).
I guess we will go for Jordie Classie in the summer then :-)
0


halftimeorange added 09:45 - Feb 2

RK got the tactics wrong against Palace and, in trying to win, did so again on Sunday. By taking off Reed he opened the door for Shelvey to boss the midfield. Tadic should have gone off. He was static too often and didn't earn his money. With him and Clyne, whose head seemed to be in Manchester, we were toothless on the right. JWP is no Morgan when it comes to distribution. Bertrand's red was retribution on his part for some of the treatment he received in the first half, all ignored by the hugely disappointing Michael Oliver. If the main men aren't going to be back next week we certainly need reinforcing. Although his kicking hasn't improved (going by his display against Watford) there must be a case for recalling Boruc!
0


forallthesaints added 10:24 - Feb 2

Almost more upsetting than the Manure robbery. At least they took it themselves - Swansea had it gifted to them by Michael Oliver who seemed to be working harder for them than Monk was. A particular occasion early on was when Jose was penalised for blocking the Swans player just outside the box and then Bertrand was fouled in exactly the same way a few moments later but got nothing. Pelle was being assaulted almost every time he was up for the ball which he won on most occasions. And yet, every time a player in white fell over and squealed he got a free kick. Oliver is a dreadful ref with little or no control or sense. He panicked and blew the whistle for the trainers to rush on only to turn round and see their player had bounced up, completely unhurt.
We did not play brilliantly except in flashes - there were some really sublime movements in the first half but no one to finish them off. Sometimes JWP just needs to hit the bloody thing.
The team got a bit jittery once an early goal had not arrived and Tadic especially seems to suffer and his precision goes all over the place - he's like a golfer with the yips at the moment and perhaps needs a break from the 1st XI.
Defensively we played okay but allowed Gomis to bully us and he somehow managed to get quite a few free kicks. And we were ripped apart easily by Shelvey's goal which was an identical move to the one just before when he hit the post.
I'm certain we're not a dirty team (not that many bookings and only one ridiculous red) and yet it seems we give away more fouls than almost anyone else. We're just not canny enough to win free kicks and get suckered into giving them away. How Mourinho can complain about a campaign against Cheatski on a day when his diving divas won more than 20 free kicks against us is beyond belief.
Sorry for the rant but I'm just sick of seeing a game I've been looking forward to ruined within a few seconds by the realisation that we'll get nothing from an incompetent referee. As soon as I saw in the programme that Oliver was in charge, my heart sank. He's awful and should be removed from the list. The problem is the others aren't very much better.
1


TimSaint added 10:46 - Feb 2

Forallthesaints - agree with many of the free kick comments you make, but I think there was a little more to the Bertrand incident. The 2 players seemed to have a few little spats throughout the game, so maybe this was the end result - but even so,he got the ball and it was not a yellow, let alone a card.
The funniest moment for me was Gomis the tank, being "felled" or pushed off the ball by Mane, a guy literally one third of his size and weight !! It really was a David and Goliath incident and obviously Gomis feined it and even more obviously, the ref bought it !! :-)
0


lotus added 11:21 - Feb 2

Forester was the blame for this defeat as he could have stoped the shot but instead push it more deep.he can make great saves but at the same time make stupid mistakes like those vs Palace and shfield
0


lotus added 11:23 - Feb 2

Forester was the blame for this defeat as he could have stoped the shot but instead push it more deep.he can make great saves but at the same time make stupid mistakes like those vs Palace and shfield
0


Consigliere added 11:57 - Feb 2

Having slept on it, its still difficult not to be cross about this match. The problem is obvious really - our players want to walk the ball into the goal instead of having a shot. Its all very well playing pretty football (and yes, we did that all afternoon) but if there is no product what's the point? I'm not asking for the Big Sam hoof-ball style but at least have a go when you get near the goal!

I don't agree with some others about Forster's failure to save the goal though - its was a superb strike and there was nothing much he could have done about it. I also don't agree with the red card defenders either - it was a silly late challenge, born out of frustration over the continual niggling in the other direction all through the match.

Ho hum, lesson learned, onwards and upwards!
0


simmo400 added 12:15 - Feb 2

POOR GAME. Tadic so overated cant even cross a ball. Feels like were playing with 10 men on the park at times. Felt sorry for REED as he played well and subbed for an attacker when one of the wide men should have came off. This probably cost us as SHELVY jogged forward to shoot.
1


grampy added 14:10 - Feb 2

The writing was on the wall in the first half when they showed they could shoot (apparently we can't). Pelle did well receiving and holding up but with no support. Need a forward and another goalkeeper asap.
1


LesVivian added 14:43 - Feb 2

You have to take your chances! Shelvey is a known threat from distance - taking Reed off allowed him to get around the pitch easier, eventually leading to their goal! Forster should have had the Shelvey shot, good though it was!
1


D_Dale added 23:16 - Feb 2

Odd-looking ratings: 8 Coventry players score better than 7.5, only 3 Dale players do, and every Coventry player is rated more highly than his Dale opposite.
0


curleigh added 18:17 - Feb 7

A much better performance today, compared to recent weeks, it was a poor goal to give away letting Defoe run 30 yards unopposed, and Gomis should have scored at least one of his opportunities first half. Completely dominated second half without creating too many chances. Stand out player for the Swans today was our scorer Ki, shows how much we missed him the last few weeks, just class.
0


BasingstokeR added 21:56 - Feb 7

Poor quality match, but like our earlier game against Saints; they played much below the standard they've reached this season, but were still better than us and took the three points. Closer this time at least, Caulker passes that ball just before the goal a bit harder and we get a point. Happening too often that kind of thing.
0


perazi added 22:15 - Feb 7

The sustained brilliance and work rate of Mane got us over the line today.
1


snanker added 00:34 - Feb 8

Vargas for Dunne sub ?
0


Taliesin added 00:52 - Feb 8

Nice to see Ki back we are a better team with him, but Cork looked lost in the midfield but that will come as he plays himself in and Nelson looks some player to me. Note for the coaching staff - could you please run some sessions designed to passing the ball in front of Jeff to run on to. We have a frightening amount of pace that we don't seem to get the best out of
0


1jack added 07:18 - Feb 8

Robbed by a dodgy offside decision from a linesman who didn't see that nearly all sunderlands goal kicks were taken from 1ft outside the six yard box.
0


Gowerjack added 08:52 - Feb 8

Tis a good job that Bony didn't leave last summer as without him we seem devoid of goal scoring threat.

Gomis trap a ball further than most can pass it and runs around a lot to little effect.

A dull game very little evidence of our former passing style & swagger.

We are starting to appear very ordinary.
-1


corkcitysaint added 09:31 - Feb 8

An ugly, late win but a win. Great result in so far as we kept going and showed out mettle. Should give us a boost against the Hammers now and on to Liverpool. A draw would have let the nerves creep in some more. I loved Roko's celebration and that of the bench of the goal!

I thought it was interesting that both Mane and Elia played more throughout the middle. Certainly, Mane seemed to be enjoying this a lot more than on the wing. his confidence seems to be growing. Elia also looks better cutting into the middle as his goals against Newcastle showed. Pelle by contrast looked isolated and not in the game at all. I thought this was the poorest I have seen him for a long time. He seems to be playing much deeper now rather than in the box trying to get on the end of something. His hold up play was poor.

Again, would like to see us do more with set plays. Had a number of them but only Fonte came close.

Great reflex save by Forster. He seems to be a great at reactionary saves rather than crosses or shots..

Overall, generally a poor performance and fortunate to get all 3 points. Need to do better.
0


halftimeorange added 10:05 - Feb 8

I agree with the comments already posted here. Forster's save from Austin was a brilliant reaction. Mane never gave up. His unabated running won us this game but, don't forget Yoshida's defence splitting pass that put him in. All too often our players wanted one touch too many. Dunne could have been sent off for bringing down Elia on the edge of the box but Eljero bounced back up and carried on. Equally, Dunne could have been sent off for kicking Elia when he was on the ground. Pelle looked a man who had played one game too many. Davis is currently not at his best and once again displayed some woeful shooting. The mystery to me is JWP. Apart from his crossing ability he isn't as good as he was last season. All in all this was a lacklustre performance against a slow and elderly team and we'll have to play better in our next two matches. When QPR go down we really should consider a bid for Charlie Austin.
0


aceofthebase added 10:41 - Feb 8

Is it time that we play without Pelle and Tadic? Mane and Elia pose a real threat thru the middle. Pelle played quite deep and did his best in that position but he is not a midfield provider to M and E, possibly when Toby is fit that is where he should play and keep Gardos as CB

I didn't think it was a poor match or perfoformance, there was lots of end to end moves and it was quite an open game. Maybe we didn't deserve the three points but that's football.

Good to see that performance of VW, MS a little way to go before on top form, picking up too many yellow cards recently.
0


tsbains64 added 20:10 - Feb 8

Battling performance but got edged out by a good goal by the ever dangerous Mane. Good shifts from Barton and Dunne were the highlights but we seems to let it slip late on Could have got an equaliser but it was not to be
Rs have the basis of a good team but too many sloppy passes and crosses have cost us
Good to see different personel in the team though Phillips crossing was poor while Adel was skilful without any end result
Zarate looked dangerous
0


Supertk added 10:25 - Feb 11

Good display by most of our players,thought Green,Barton and Fer were very good,Green with some unbelievable saves gets my vote for mom.
Thought Isla was a liability in the first half,missed passes and seemed uncomfortable. Yun also seemed a bit rusty. Rio had a good game. Actually think SWP had an ok game dispite his first cross hitting Isla in the head,worked hard and showed some effort in going forwards.
1


dixiedean added 14:20 - Feb 11

Agree with all that supertk says - I like Isla but he has a tendency to play suicidal passes in our half of the pitch and play us into trouble. I mentioned to Clive on the way out after the game that giving Green MOM ( which he deserves) might make people think that this was a smash & grab raid, which it most certainly wasn't . We were on the front foot from the 1st minute and outplayed them. What a difference when the team has a game plan, tactics and the players know their individual responsibilities . Shame it took 13 games to find out such basic requirements. A win away, a win away........
1


PezzaSaint added 07:00 - Feb 12

The lack of JayRod and Shane Long is beginning to tell now. Graziano was always going to have a drop in form at some point and injuries have meant we haven't been able to give him the rest that it looks like he needs. Hopefully the 10 days he has got now will help?!
0


jonrog added 07:37 - Feb 12

0


SaintGeorge added 08:09 - Feb 12

Saints primary tactic in the last three games has been pass-move-neat run, turn-pass, lovely chip, nice take-down, look up, PASS DIRECTLY TO OPPOSITION PLAYER IN THE BOX, over and over and over again.

It's simply not entertaining to watch - it's like, I don't know, a Justin Bieber concert - you know everyone on stage is a highly trained and well-paid professional, all the notes are exactly right, but the end result is infinitely predictable and really irritating.

Koeman has to get the lads in front of some goal posts at staplewood and have them spend two solid weeks just blasting the ball into the net.
0


Consigliere added 08:46 - Feb 12

GROUNDHOG DAY! Lots of pretty football, more possession that I can remember and yet no product. To be fair to the team, the sheer mass of W Ham bodies in the way of goal meant that it was difficult to get the ball over the line but nevertheless we the supporters pay good money to see some shots on goal. Now I know that Sky regards us as mere unpaid (actually paying) extras to give a backdrop to their television broadcasts but we do have to be thrown a bone occassionally. Come on Saints, start scoring again!
0


smiffdub added 14:47 - Feb 12

Disappointing again (as last week with Swansea). Pelle's new deeper role means he will be even less productive than he's been (plus he definitely is out of form--he doesn't even seem to be able to win a ball anywhere on the park, let alone find the net!). Elia achieved nothing yesterday, nor did Tadic when he came on. And on that brief showing Djuricic looks like-for-like with them. Only Mane looked likely to score, and he was subbed. Defensively we were once again very solid, obviously, but the current set-up isn't going to score you many goals...because if the top 3 can't score , nobody else can! None of the midfield trio knows how to score and of the three only Davis even has any creative ability. JWP is more creative but he is maybe even more woeful a sniper than anyone on the team. Something missing in the midfield right now while the front three are ineffectual.
0


chesterbfc added 08:58 - Feb 15

Will go down in Blackpool,s history
0


MelakaRanger added 17:40 - Feb 21

Thank you Joey for reverting to type. Other than Caulkers assist for their first goal the remaining 10 men & subs were immense. Furlong very impressive

Once again we let in a cruel very very late goal. Its our Achilles heal.

I'm very positive about the remaining matches

0


forallthesaints added 00:20 - Feb 23

It's starting to sound like a stuck record with two sides. The A side is called For Christ's Sake SHOOOOOT! The B side is a sad melody entitled We Always Get Shit Refs. I thought the bad decisions were supposed to even themselves out over a season. Not so. Three strong penalty appeals denied, two of them nailed on. The one in the first minute was almost identical to the one won by Harry Kane for Spurs against West Ham. Why didn't we get one? Kevin Friend's atrocious performance aside, we still can't have a go on goal unless we've passed it at least 23 times. A very depressing afternoon not made any better by the sad treatment of Lallana. I know he left the club under a cloud and he regrets the way he handled his transfer but let's remember how well he played for us for so many years and what a big part he played in our success last season. Lovren can go to hell but Lallana did well for Saints and should be remembered as a major past player for the club. I will not boo him and I applauded him off.
1


TijuanaTim added 06:20 - Feb 23

Friend...what a joke
0


simmo400 added 06:36 - Feb 23

another poor effort
0


Consigliere added 09:01 - Feb 23

Yes, the referee was awful, the weather was awful, they got a lucky goal and an unstoppable goal BUT that doesn't answer the same problem we have had for weeks - a nervous unwillingness to strike when within shooting distance of goal and a preference for passing backwards when attack would be more productive. Pele needs to spend less time complaining and more time getting on with if. We all know the referee made an awful decision but neither he nor the linesman are going to change thier minds. Get on with it, you are being made enough money for heaven's sake!

Some positives from the game - Vic Wanyama was magnificent in midfield as always, Yoshida is a model of calm composure in defence and it was great to see Clyne getting forward as he used to do. On a level playing field on another day, who knows.....
2


darthvader added 12:19 - Feb 23

Abysmal refereeing sapping confidence , coupled with our inability to finish ,causing me to almost have a heart attack .. again.
Much like the last few home games .
1


TimSaint added 14:37 - Feb 23

Same as last 2 home matches. Frustrating beyond belief - at players and officials alike.
We should have had 3 pens and Joe Allen and Mignolet should have been off.
1 quality goal and 1 gift.
Need some wholesale changes in the front 3rd.
No urgency to get back in the game despite losing. We need to get our full backs flying again - creating and scoring and all our forward/midfield options are too similar. Maybe Shane can be the answer in a change of formation.
Pelle needs to start winning headers and pass it properly, instead of doing these stupid flicks that give possession away. I'm backing him to notch at West Brom next week :-)
2


winchesterbob added 18:55 - Feb 23

Very poor refereeing and lino completely inept. Having said that, if you don't score you don't win. We really miss Bertrand pushing up the left, that petulant red card has really cost us, Lovren on a yellow card should have been pushed much harder.
0


inthenet added 21:12 - Feb 23

Joe Bunny run his socks off , have faith in the Hopper
0


grampy added 16:04 - Feb 24

Need to score to win even with a shite ref. Was disappointed with team selection. I think Reed should have started instead of W-P, and thought where the hell was Mané. Also would have preferred to see Long come on instead of Tadic. Lallana earned enough credit over the years to have deserved a bit better, he's a Liverpool player now, move on. People around me booing him got up and went to the bar 35 mins in and far too many up and left when the second goal went in. It a game of football not a pub crawl for christ sake. Sit in your seat (or stand) and get behind the team till the ref lets you know it's over.
0


bigrob68 added 17:41 - Feb 28

Pelle, Tadic worst players on the pitch today by far, Pelle should of been off at half time, move Mane to centre and Long next to him. Tomorrows training session should only be shooting, the continuous bimbling around the box is sad, SHOOT FFS
2


smiffdub added 19:49 - Feb 28

Very early goal again, with our huge keeper still just beginning to stir his limbs. A top class keeper has to have a better save percentage than Forster. In response the defence reverted to a flat 4 and then it looked as solid as ever, even thought WBA didn't test it much. Midfield was disappointing...Schneiderlin looked as if he was just along for the ride while Wanyama did all the hard work. With only one of those two active, we were never going to help the eager but ineffectual 3 stooges, Tadic, Elia, Mane. Their lack of precision on final passes lost the ball just as often as their miscontrolled first-touches. (In the end, aren't those three too similar to be playing together?) And then, oh dearie me, the worst yet from Pelle. He surely can't keep his place for the Palace game. Something--anything--has to be be done.
1


smiffdub added 23:48 - Feb 28

Very early goal again, with our huge keeper still just beginning to stir his limbs. A top class keeper has to have a better save percentage than Forster. In response the defence reverted to a flat 4 and then it looked as solid as ever, even thought WBA didn't test it much. Midfield was disappointing...Schneiderlin looked as if he was just along for the ride while Wanyama did all the hard work. With only one of those two active, we were never going to help the eager but ineffectual 3 stooges, Tadic, Elia, Mane. Their lack of precision on final passes lost the ball just as often as their miscontrolled first-touches. (In the end, aren't those three too similar to be playing together?) And then, oh dearie me, the worst yet from Pelle. He surely can't keep his place for the Palace game. Something--anything--has to be be done.
0


aceofthebase added 10:20 - Mar 1

Saints playing with only nine men do not stand a chance in this league. Yep nine men as Tadic and Pelle are no longer contributing. Pelle missed a sitter but this is not the first time that he has failed to connect or convert a cross from in front of the goal. Doesn't he keep his eye on the ball! We must get this sorted otherwise everyone will be downcast for the rest of the season.
Come on RoKo sort it out, tho it would have helped if the TX loan period had brought in a goalscorer.
Perhaps Gardos could be converted to a centre forward
0


SaintGeorge added 11:08 - Mar 1

Tadic on the right again eh? OK Ron - how's that working out for you?
2


codge added 15:22 - Mar 1

Same old problem again most posesion but lack of finishing.Until we get that sorted out we will continue to struggle l am afraid....
0


corkcitysaint added 09:20 - Mar 2

After a few days of reflection, trying to find some positives, I can't... The engine has really stalled on this plane and we are now in a dive.

If with all the possession in the last number of games we had troubled and tormented the oppositions defense / keeper and been hammering on the door without the ball going in I would be more positive but we have been truly awful in attack. It seems we have no ideas once we get to oppositions penalty box. Too intricate play takes us nowhere. Corners / free kicks fly over our players heads. We never seem to peel off the marker to try to create a bit of space.

We lack incisive / cutting edge passing on the attack. it's all too slow and gives the opponent time to get back into a tight, defensive unit. Mane at lest tries to break the line.

I'd like to see Tadic take on more of an Eden Hazard role and go and run at a defense. At the moment, he's lost! Our shape is too east to defend against at the moment.

We need the ball to go in against someone's backside on Tuesday! Any bit of luck will do.
0


codge added 22:49 - Mar 3

The one word to describe this game awful, l just don't get it how far we are from the team that was playing so well not that long ago, l still love my Saints and always will but this was really bad to watch. Still I'll take 3 points and the only way is onward and upward COYR......
1


gpsgm added 23:05 - Mar 3

A goal at last !!! Particularly good performances I thought from Maya, Ryan, Vic, Morgs, Sadio.
The ref had a good game (and I thought that before we scored) which is unusual for us.
I think we proved we can play with Shane at the front and take some pressure of Pelle.

A goal, 3 points and a clean sheet. Perfect
1


WestSussexSaint added 07:40 - Mar 4

It wasn't pretty but it was probably the best 3 points of the season. 23 shots with only 3 on target tells its own story. Pelle wasn't the only culprit. Maybe the Echo was nearer the mark than we wanted to admit!
1


aceofthebase added 07:56 - Mar 4

Not awful at all. Pity that the 'more shots' was interpretated as shoot from anywhere and not at the goal. Times we could have entered the penalyt area wasted by very optimistic shooting.
Great result but what has happened to ward Prowse, his game is dreadful and thankfully his weak shot was put in by the enthusiastic Mane. WP nearly gave the game away with dreadful passes and clearances.
The result is what matters and those three points were well fought for. A bit lucky in places but we had a good game.
-1


PezzaSaint added 12:11 - Mar 4

Agree with West Sussex on this, probably the most important three points of the season. It will make the 10 day break all the sweeter now, which wouldn't have been the case had we have drawn or even lost. We can go to Chelsea now with no real expectations, but with an element of pressure off which will help our play. The Chelsea game is just the sort of game where we can go and simply try to get back to our football of earlier in the season.
0


simmo400 added 14:24 - Mar 4

Made it such hard work but an ugly win. Shame we didnt repeat this result for West Ham, Lverpool and the rest.....
1


tsbains64 added 09:32 - Mar 5

Pretty even first half but their class killed us off in the second . Great saves by Green but was also at fault for the second.
Battling performance but little mistakes let us down
Not use Niko is up to it was too lightweight-where is Adel?
Furlong is a good prospect but needs time
We matched them for most of the game but need to make more of your opportunities
0


quickpassrotter added 20:26 - Mar 5

In it up until around 60 minutes (well, until the first goal anyway). Bizarre substitution with Niko coming on - not mentally tuned in and certainly not physically up to it, let us and himself down badly. Charlie was Charlie - just gets better and better, great strike. Nedum's injury early on did not help us - dropped a couple of yards deeper to accommodate Clint. Matty Philips going from strength to strength. Karl Henry playing out of his skin - what a pro.
We have to keep going. Must get something out of the Tottenham game.
( Can we have a complete new set of Prem League referees and assistants next season please)
0


GK10 added 20:09 - Mar 7

Never felt there was enough energy in the team. Looked heavy legged from the off. With a noticeable gap in class between the two sides, we needed high tempo and a willingness to close the ball down.....oh and a referee without a visual impairment (again)
0


parker64 added 20:41 - Mar 7

Lots of effort to just about keep Spurs within distance. But the gulf was massive. A fairly depressing feel to the game. Generally too old and not mobile enough.

Need to hear what's happened to Zarate, Vargas and AT.

I have no idea as to the thinking behind bringing SWP on in the 93rd minute.
0


Harbour added 09:07 - Mar 8

2 poor goals to concede but 2 stonewall pens we put a shift in austin should have scored him and bz hit bar and post no luck
0


tsbains64 added 16:51 - Mar 8

Unlucky with some of the referring decisions-the second one was a def penalty
Good game but once again their class shone through . Impressed with Sandro abd the battling qualities of the team
If we play like this then we should pick up enough points but need to keep the tempo up as well as take chances
Great saves from Green but should have doen better with the first goal
Yun was almost undertsanding and dissapointed at the negative criticism of Rio-we pay him good money because TF has agreed to it-its not Rios fault...
Still feel positive but time is running out
0


MelakaRanger added 16:36 - Mar 14

Once I saw the team sheet I knew we were beat before the start. This was a bad , inept performance and worthy only of a relegated team. All the hope of the past few weeks gone.

All SWP could do was fall over and proved us all correct is our belief that he is an absolute waste. No one performed even to a mediocre performance. Phillips goal and soon thereafter shot on target, the only few seconds of any decent performance.

Then taking untill 86th min to bring on attacking subs - and then Niko instead of Vargas.

I know he has inherited a poor squad but todays selection, tactics and subs show Ramsey has lost the plot

Wit
0


snanker added 02:39 - Mar 15

Christ that was hard to watch, slow, inept and just gong through the motions Rangers at 57% possession falling for the 3 card trick and playing into to Palace's hit them on the break scenario ! We stalled on the first goal thinking that just because CA was nearly choked to death by Dann this ref of all ref's would award the most blatant foul possible and got caught out when he did his best blind Freddy and Palace skinned forward only for Yun I suspect to get the final touch into the net ? We then went into the sheds mentally 6 minutes ahead of schedule and conceded 2 appalling goals ! Time for Rob Green to have a break as I'm getting fed up with saying the keeper could / should have done better especially when he has the Seaman super glued to his line blinkers on !! SWP......................does CR not want the gig any longer ! FFS ! OK so we won the second half with a freak goal with their 2 better players going off the park injured and there was a bit more spine with Hill coming on but this is way below what is needed to avoid the drop. CA put both his reasonable chances straight into the keepers gut and with Fer out if Charlie doesn't score well.........I thought Phillips and Henry battled manfully and Sandro put himself about a bit but as for the remainder........

PS Another unbelievably perplexing refereeing effort by the dope in charge !!
0


AlanBall added 09:15 - Mar 15

We lost the match 4-0. Pittman scored a hatrick.
0


gpsgm added 19:45 - Mar 15

Matched the champions elect on their ground. Not bad. Just lacked a winner. Mane was awesome 1st half. I thought Chelsea were tiring. Sadly they weren't. Kept Hazard pretty quiet. Great saves from Forster. The Long/Mane strike force looks good to me.
0


aceofthebase added 20:42 - Mar 15

Wow! What a game, end to end stuff and a thoroughly good watch even thru' my blurred computer stream.
A dampener is that we still haven't managed a goal in open play but the positive is that we looked dangerous and capable of scoring. we won the first half and Chelsea the 2nd but we were never outplayed.
It doesn't pays to anticipate complete success but dig in boys and we can regain a few places in this league.
1


blackvincent added 22:26 - Mar 15

Failed to create chances in dominant first half. Poor second with odd substitutions but understand need for Cannon to come off. Poor game, Fleetwood were spoilers but we lacked shape in second half. Cannon looks the real deal, looked strong at the back. Up front final pass creating chances is the issue. Brandy very poor, Bunny not up to it physically. Can't understand RNL/BH remaining on bench when goals needed. But we are in a far better position than we could have hoped. Hopefully Dawson return will bring some drive. We are strong but where are the goals going to come from?
0


smiffdub added 23:02 - Mar 15

Great point! Saints looked like the home team for most of the first half. Then when they were forced to defend they looked like Chelsea defending a CL final! Great stuff. The only negatives for me were: 1) the complete cluelessness of both tadic and Long in terms of finishing (and Mane wasn't much better there but played a great game otherwise); and 2) the subs...JWP was awful once again, Pelle didn't seem to have benefitted from sitting, and Djuricic was off the pace. But who's complaining?
1


smegma added 12:07 - Mar 16

I think it's time to have a minus figure just in case SWP is on the pitch
1


SaintGeorge added 13:37 - Mar 16

Happy to be proved wrong - brilliant performance and a fair result. I think the three subs reduced our potential but fresh legs were essential to keeping the Chelsea out at the death.

COYR :o)
0


Consigliere added 20:07 - Mar 21

SHANE LONG shall henceforth be known by me as "the bionic ferret." What a difficult man he must be to play against! The moment you turn around, on him he is up your backside making a nuisance of himself and he just won't leave you alone. It was delightful to see him score a goal (though that probably makes Pelle feel even wo
1


Consigliere added 20:11 - Mar 21

Oops techno problem - as I was saying that probably makes Pelle feel even worse about himself, but even without scoring he is just so valuable to have on the pitch, because he forces errors and allows other team-mates to get into a good scoring position. Pelle's confidence - or loss of it - is becoming an issue though. You can almost feel his desire to impress but until he does, he won't get back into winning ways. You just feel that with another tiny bit of effort he is going to get there, but the problem is in his head, not in his feet. So long as he hangs on just a bit longer it will all come right for him.
0


dirk_doone added 20:35 - Mar 21

In the 2nd half, Saints were back to their best, controlling the game and playing really entertaining football. I gave both our subs a rating of 9. I can't recall ever doing that before. But, Wanyama and Davis really were superb.
0


PezzaSaint added 07:41 - Mar 22

Shape didn't look right in the first half and Burnley had to much possession in the middle of midfield. I thought Tadic and Long were cutting down the space that Bertrand and Clyne would normally run into, but could understand what RoKo was thinking with the formation, let's try and score an early goal. You could argue that it worked with extra players forward when Long scored and of course after half time being a goal up allowed us to not have to press the game, Burnley had to come on to us and this created extra space.
It always amazes me what a goal does for confidence and in the 2nd half we were pretty untroubled.
Keep the faith with Pelle, his hold up play was good again yesterday, he just needs that goal. The crowd were willing a goal in for him yesterday.
0


aceofthebase added 08:20 - Mar 22

Great game, great performance, hugely entertaining.
Does Pelle need or wear glasses? He constantly just misses crosses or gets only a glance when he should be making full contact. This has been noticeable through the whole season. Even our goal came via a complete mis kick from Pelle. The diving header was close but not good enough, and the header that was on target had no power or direction. Having had my little moan I still think he is an asset to the side but we can play without him and he should not be the first name on the team sheet
Tadic had a better game, which would not be difficult!
Well done Saints, a great team performance and a good prezzie for RoKo. What a pity we can't buy Kane, That would be one in the eye for the POX
0


gpsgm added 11:06 - Mar 22

A goal that resulted from a short spell of actually shooting gave us a 1st half lead and the chance to control a game from a leading position for the first time in months. A spirited response from Burnley but we outclassed them and should have won by more. Well done Kelvin for a few good saves. He gets MOTM for me for that and being an inspirational club captain. Grazziano? Master of the art of false No9 in a way noone could predict. And Shane Long makes Billy the Whiz look slow.
0


corkcitysaint added 11:47 - Mar 22

Great game, delighted with the result. To give credit to Burnley, they played very well and were perhaps unlucky not to get a penalty. Fonte has had a couple of wobbles now recently and has been close to conceding penalties.

Great performance by Kelvin with some crucial saves. It looked like he had been playing all season! Delighted for Long that he got a goal that his work rate deserves. I really feel sorry for Pelle at the moment. It looks like the poor guy is cursed not to score.. A mention for Bertrand too who I thought had a great game.

2nd half we looked a lot more solid but still needed the 2nd goal I felt to kill off Burnley. Only downside really apart from the injury is we had 20 attempts but only 3 on target. Still, 3 vital points and we march on !
0


romfordranger added 19:34 - Mar 22

I must admit to not attending today's game, I just can't stand the heartache. What finished me off for this season was the first half disgrace at Palace and also seeing SWP play. It struck me that perhaps Ramsey has an ego or complete clueless like the rest of them at our shambles of a football club, that somehow his coaching skills were so miraculous he could get SWP to resemble a footballer. All he did was put us at a huge disadvantage and we were well beaten before we started. That did it for me, and I swore that stupid loyalty would no longer mean I keep wasting my hard earnt money watching that shambles of a team. At least no end of season tension, we will be dead and buried long before then.
0


Harbour added 08:23 - Mar 23

all persperation little inspiration. adel did well in cameo but should have scored in injury time shocking defending for first goal we just not good enough and have no luck a cruel combination. 1st half far too slow they were rubbish we were worse....all over for prem now
0


snanker added 00:47 - Apr 5

As Mr Reed once enunciated a Perfect Day, you just keep me hanging on.......
0


Dull1Thomas added 01:36 - Apr 5

Sleep walked in to that win. Once Hull went down to 10 we looked liked the side with a man short. And once again we had a decent (but disjointed) first half but sat back and got pummelled for much of the second.
Our midfield seemed to forget how to play in the second half with Siggy, Shelvey and Routledge being well below what should be expected and Ki suffering from the additional workload.
Another game where the substitutions were baffling (Rangel excluded as a like for like replacement.
Three well taken goals against a woeful Hull.
Pleased with the 3 pts but the jeering from large sections of the crowd for long periods of the second half told the story of a game between two teams incapable, on the day, of producing sustained quality football.
0


corkcitysaint added 09:12 - Apr 5

Disappointing result. Didn't create much once more except for Pelle's effort (great save by Howard). Had we gone ahead, I think we would have won. JWP had a good shot with a good save again by Howard. Conceded a very, very poor goal. Defence got caught ball watching really and were slow to re-act. Apart from that, Everton never looked like scoring so it's a real kick in the teeth. Same old story though, we go 1 down and it's pretty much game over.

I was surprised to Elia start. Apart from his game against Newcastle, I don't think he has contributed much to any game he has been in.He always seems to be on the periphery. That's not to make him a scapegoat for todays result but based on his performances so far, I wouldn't buy him in the summer. I'd like to see Elia get the ball more and run at the defence and make runs not the box. He seems to be lost / isolated on the wing and doesn't move from there. The same goes for Djuricic. He hasn't done much at all.I realise it may take time for them to adapt a la Mane (who should have started) but they need to contribute a bit more at least.

It's a pity we lost as it would have been great to leap frog Liverpool. Oh, to finish ahead of Liverpool and Tottenham!!
2


tsbains64 added 12:18 - Apr 5

atlast a performance that we have been promosing for a long time Great goals ,solid defending and a wild away support.A perfect wayto kick off the business end of the season 3 more wins and we are there
0


SaintGeorge added 13:11 - Apr 5

Typical saints performance - almost the defining match of our season. Possession, pretty football, solid defending and an inability to score so deeply embedded the groundsmen might as well have dismantled the opposition's goal posts and gone home. It's getting so boring. I liked it when we leaked goals aplenty and scored masses - Matty, Shearer, Rideout and the Wallaces slammin em in. Sigh.

Having said all that, Howard the mad mullah pulled a couple of amazing saves out of the hat didn't he? Buy him!
2


1949er added 19:49 - Apr 6

cheats dont prosper ,usually.
0


1949er added 13:32 - Apr 7

whats this about hilly being linked with the pie eaters vacancy? once bitten twice shy as the saying goes.
0


aceofthebase added 18:01 - Apr 11

A game of two halves, love that statement of the obvious!
0


Consigliere added 19:08 - Apr 11

A CLASSIC IT WAS NOT nor even a particularly good game, indeed it would not be unfair to describe the first half as frankly boring, but it came to life after the penalty and it never really felt that we were going to lose thereafter. A section of the crowd around me were just starting to sing "If Pelle scores we're on the pitch" when he did just that, and it felt like a moment of liberation. It is unfair to criticise Pelle for the goal drought since Christmas because he has been trying his best, but football, like all sport, is 90% about confidence and he just hasn't had it of late. The breakthrough achieved, he started to play like a man re-born and you could almost feel and taste the sense of optimism flowing back into the team. With the final whistle blown, the mood on the terraces was of a corner turned, and when the stadium announcer finally told us that Spurs had lost at home, relief turned to joy. It is probably too early to start packing my sombrero but I am certainly thinking of getting it down from the loft.........
0


halftimeorange added 20:45 - Apr 11

Odd tactics from RK once again. It is pretty obvious that Mane needs to play through the middle off Pelle so why not do it? Shane Long set the tone for a dismal first-half display when he lost control of a breakaway chance in the first minute. He went on to have a poor game but not nearly as bad as Steven Davis who, apart from a couple of interventions, had a mare. Jose spoilt an otherwise faultless performance with one of his reckless back passes, something Mane tried to emulate after being denied the chance of taking the penalty. Pelle was one of the few players who actually seemed interested from the off. Ryan Bertrand spent a lot of time shaking his head but did save us the embarrassment of conceding a goal with an off the line clearance. The team looked fresher when Ward-Prowse, Tadic and Elia came on but we can't start angainst Stoke or Spurs like we did today, and against Burnley. Rumour has it Clyne was on the bench due to being seen talking to Man U representatives at a charity do. After his recent performances he wasn't missed. Hull was one of the worst teams to play at St Mary's this season. Every chance they'll go down. Another less than satisfactory referee but I did think the Wanyama booking was reasonable.
1


SaintMoose added 21:11 - Apr 11

Strange game and an odd decision to leave out Clyne, but Yosh coming into the back four didn't let us down though he showed on a couple of occasions his lack of pace.
A lot of passes went astray and we showed a lack of ambition in that final third. Pelle seemed to be sinking lower and lower... until the goal. Hopefully, the cork has popped now for him... and goals will flow again.
Did appear to be a lot of pumping the ball forward aimlessly at times where Pelle was getting continually bumped and harrassed (Not surprised he reacted and was a little lucky not to have seen red)
Second half much improved and with Prowsey spreading the ball nicely. Good bit of leadership, him being given the penalty from Mane. And he showed a ballsy penalty - much more confident than if Tadic had taken it I felt.
Let's face it. 3 points. School report reads... Could have done better but got the job done!
Super Kelv at the back very solid though his clearances aren't as good as
0


Dull1Thomas added 23:55 - Apr 11

Two poor sides playing poor football. Our inability to keep possession or pass was highlighted again today. One or two players having an off day is one thing but 9!!!
Siggy, Routs & Jonjo all appeared wander around without much cohesion and Ki, Ash, Fed and Rangel looked like they'd never seen each other before. Our play lakes pace, accuracy or endeavour (apart from a short spell at the start an send of the game.)
IMO, the performance summed up our season - "It's better to be lucky than good,"
0


gpsgm added 17:22 - Apr 12

Very disappointing 1st half and I have to admit I got quite negative. Much improved with JWP replacing Victor. Some games just don't work with Morgan & Victor, we end up with a six man defence against teams where we don't need it. 2nd half much improved, pleased to see Graziano getting angry as it really seemed to motivate him. I think his hair almost moved at one point.

Jose and Maya had really good game. Toby offered more threat than Clyney of late. Kelvin gets a clean sheet.

Europe beckons.
0


SaintCliff added 02:55 - Apr 13

At last the monkeys are off the back of JWP and Pelle
0


Harbour added 10:10 - Apr 13

Great performance by the team and bar the lack of concentration in the 88th Minute we would have got at least a point. CR has clearly got the team organized and motivated. Was pleasing to see every player giving 100% and challenging for every ball. Phillips and Austiin had clearest chances to score and but for their goalie we could have had 2 goals....they had one clear chance and scored. Felt gutted at the end as well as exhausted voice gone...thought crowd did a fantastic job for the whole match gave team great support....shame about the idiots at the end....was pleased we gave Rob a Greenoo shout at the end he looked crestfallen head in hands...whilst a poor kick for the goal we were poor in getting back ...isla was looking the wrong way and got caught and fabregas beat three defenders
0


simmo400 added 10:48 - Apr 13

first half horror show. second half marginally better. Steve Davis worst ive ever seen him play cant believe he wasnt subbed.
1


tsbains64 added 10:53 - Apr 13

100% commitment on display but got done by one mistake! Sadly is it s pattern for us this season
Great performance and crowd but jsu did not have enough tp hold one for a precious point
Overshadowed by the minority at the end
Probably the the best performance at home this season
0


codge added 17:23 - Apr 18

Very disappointing result, Kelvin big mistake and Davis in midfield struggled with his passing once more,Tadic seems lost out there again, did not understand the starting line up this week, not a lot of positives and Toby getting injured could be costly, still need a good result next against Spurs, it has been a great year so Coys....
5


corkcitysaint added 18:17 - Apr 18

Oh the frustration!! Very, very disappointing result. I have to admit Kelvin was poor for the first goal and maybe the second if he could get a clear sight of the shot as he seemed to dive for the ball as it was rebounding out of the goal..

At the moment, Tadic couldn't even assist me with the shopping! Davis' passing was poor. Credit to Morgan, I thought he was man of the match for us today. He was active in getting the ball from the back and trying to create or get it forward and control things. I thought Long might have come on earlier to mix things up. Not much point in bringing Elia on.Contributes little.

Did Toby dislocate his shoulder? Out for a couple of matchs anyway assume.

Like I say, very frustrating!!
4


SaintBrock added 08:48 - Apr 19

Hard to take but we looked disjointed all afternoon and only Schneiderlin played to his usual high standard. Sadly Kelvin looked his age and was caught napping for both goals, his confidence will be rock bottom after today. A pity that the best defence in the league is hitched up to what may be currently the worst attack that never seems able to get command of the final third. Quite embarrassing really that it was our defenders who conspired to fashion our only goal.
2


owderrammy added 19:22 - Apr 24

we made a good start and Zac Whitbread gave a 5 star performance and made some amazing tackles and held our defence together until his injury. After that our defence went to pieces and gave away silly goals as usual. I believe we currently have the worst defence in the division with Grant and Christie again showing ability no better than conference players. The forwards gave a decent performance with Ince looking very good although Bent seemed to be out muscled by their centre back. Dawkins had a good match and may have found his true position in midfield.
0


codge added 15:49 - Apr 25

What does it take for Steven Davis to be on the bench,if only he could learn to put the ball in the net once in awhile
and string a few passes to our own players we might have won this game going away.Mane and Pelle looked really good today and deserved to be on the winning side,as a whole one point not good enough but we move forward and hope Schneiderlin will be ok Coyr....
1


halftimeorange added 15:49 - Apr 25

On the way to the ground I voiced the opinion that "Hopefully, Steven Davies would have had several hours shooting practice" as he often gets himself into shooting positions. Oh dear, it's not often I'd say that one player cost us points but today that was the case. Maybe it's time he became a squad player and Harrison Reed stepped up (he wasn't afraid to shoot in the U-21 final). Mane's persistence resulted in the first goal but RK should suggest that he doesn't fall over so often. It is somewhat embarrassing. Kelvin had little to do except pick the ball out of his net but there were two somewhat worrying moments - one when he allowed Morgan to cajole him into a chancy game of passing the ball back and forwards between them - and the second when he casually watched a ball pass his right-hand post when it might have been more appropriate to palm it away. Other than that I thought we played better than we have of late and Pelle's second goal showed what he can do if he's fed the right sort of ball - which hasn't been the case all season long.
3


corkcitysaint added 18:02 - Apr 25

Such a shame we couldn't keep it tight at the back for a win. Unlike us to concede 2 goals. Whatever about the first being lucky for them, the 2nd, I felt Yoshida was exposed for pace and I thought Kelvin should have done better to cover the angle.

Spurs didn't deserve anything from this game. Better finishing would have seen us cruise this one. But that has been our issue recently. Fantastic 2nd goal by Pelle and great persistence for the 1st too. Mane really needs to look along the line to avoid being caught offside. He has the pace so I feel he can hang more behind the defender. Clyne was very quiet going down the wing in contrast to Bertrand who I thought had a great game. Hopefully Morgan will be fit and hasn't done his knee in.

Leicester & Villa won't be easy games I feel now as they both seem to have their tails up.

With Liverpool drawing today, had we won at Stoke and again today, unfortunately it's all "ifs , buts and maybes"...
2


TimSaint added 19:03 - Apr 25

Feels like we lost. To throw the lead away twice is extremely disappointing, but perhaps expected with a keeper in poor form and 2 or 3 outfield players well below par. This many out of form players is hard to cover, but just think what could have been if we had 2 more playing well.

Think Yoshi will be dropped next week - don't feel comfortable when he is on the ball anyway.

Kelvin should retire in 4 games time - he was good against Burnley and Hull, but awful today and v Stoke. He has cost us big time and it is not coincidence that we have started losing points from winning positions, now he is back in goal.

S Davis cannot buy a shot on target, let alone a goal. Better distribution from him today though and plenty of running - but stupidly got booked after giving the ball away cheaply.

Great that Pelle got a brace and that Kane didn't even have a shot !!

Mane dived a couple of times, but was getting kicked all day - should have had at least 1 penalty.

Gave the ball away, or straight back to them a lot, but overall, pleased with the majority of the performance, but not quite with the result.

0


gpsgm added 19:36 - Apr 25

Great game, could have won it. Spurs are a good side we should be proud.
Maya was excellent, Morgan & Toby v.good in the middle, Sadio worried the hell out of their defence, possibly his best game yet. Steve Davis excellent except he has an ass / banjo malfunction in front of goal. What a miss the first one was! Pelle back to scoring, the header was a thing of beauty. Can't believe one of Joses headers didn't win it for us. Who knew Elia was so good at dead balls. Ever one created a chance.
0


aceofthebase added 19:58 - Apr 25

I enjoyed this game tho' the result was disappointing.
I don't blame Kelvin for any recent results, the pity is is that our opponents have managed to get a few shots at our goal which they were denied in earlier games,
Steven Davis had a good game but those two extremely poor shots were so costly. Does he shoot like that in training if so his days are surely numbered.
Well done Pelle and Mane, a few dives by the latter and Eli looked very tricky. Bertrand excellent and all our defenders played well. Yoshida played well but he will know that the second goal was his fault, Incidentally Pelle could have been blamed for the first when he brought down a difficult ball near the half way line and then tried one of his hopeful backheel passes that enabled Spurs to break down the right and subsequently score.
The biggest congrats go to the Saints supporters who shouted and entertained everyone and hopefully our team were encouraged.
0


sidsaint added 23:05 - Apr 25

Great game of football which I feel we shaded and certainly created the better chances. If we play like today for rest of season we can make it into Europe. I think that this is the first time this season that we have let in 2 goals in successive weeks.
1


Consigliere added 10:00 - Apr 26

I have a theory that Saints' performance in any given match is inversely proportional to the position of their game in the MOTD running order. For those of you who couldn't be bothered to wait up, we were next to last. Sure, the result was disappointing but the game was an excellent display and the goals against us represented no more than the fine margins by which these things are decided. You could citicise Yoshida for being overtaken for pace just before the second goal but that apart he had an excellent game and I would certainly play him again next week. Mane must learn to stay on his feet, but his commitment was a joy to behold, and Pelle has come good in the end as we all thought he must. I think the only managerial decision I would question was not bringing Shane Long on 10 minutes earlier - we needed the bionic ferret to make a nuisance of himself as he always does, and it paid off.

Finally, it was a pleasure to observe how most of the fans simply ignored Pocchettino, it being a waste of breath to jeer him. Where the national newspapers got the idea that he was given a hard time I can't imagine - presumably their reporters hadn't bothered to turn up and simply wrote their stories beforehand.
3


tsbains64 added 20:12 - Apr 26

just did not have the cutting edge despite being awarded a penalty Hammers Keeper was outstanding but Green made some great saves too.
Players gave it all Great to see Fer back-he could make all the difference with the run in that we have but feel that other teams have raised their game and looks like we have left it too late
Oh if only the penalty had been dispatched........
0


MelakaRanger added 17:43 - May 2

This team has given up. Gutless, no fight, no skill, no ideas, nothing good to show.

Nedums two yellows summed up the whole clusterf++ck

Only Green earned his money. This team wouldnt even manage mid table Championship.

0


SaintBrock added 17:57 - May 2

Sadly a very disjointed affair, we are clearly all at sea at the moment running around with no real purpose. We never looked like scoring despite all the huff and puff. The wheels really have fallen off big time and with Morgan out and probably gone we are not half theme that started off so well. Can we beat anybody in this form?
3


DPeps added 18:42 - May 2

Thank God Swansea still have to play Arsenal and Man City!
4


corkcitysaint added 20:10 - May 2

What a shocker of a performance. Up there with the defeat against Sheffield Utd for me. Nobody played well. I thought we lacked a leader on the pitch today. Someone to get riled up roll up the sleeves and get stuck in. It looked like we were of the belief we just had to show up to win.

Long who is normally so industrious did nothing, Pelle got no service at all, Fonte looked rattled Elia & Djuricic for me add nothing to the side and I hope we don't waste money on buying them. Clyne didn't bomb forward.

Yes they got 2 penalties and we had a player sent off but we did nothing to warrant anything from this game in my opinion. I'm now looking over our shoulder at Swansea... Villa and Leicester both have momentum now with City on the last day. I'm getting nervous...
3


062259 added 21:23 - May 2

Well put, my friend.

Did you notice they started the second half with NINE players from last season in the Championship, five of whom are well into their 30's.

Is it any wonder?

0


LostBoys added 00:41 - May 3

Just dreadfull
3


redandwhite56 added 18:52 - May 3

Saints never really took control of this match and thaty meant Sunderland were always going to have chances - which they gratefully took.

We only came alive after JWP was sent off, the players seemed to respond to this by upping their energy and we then dominated the game. Unfortunately for us we couldn't create the equaliser. In fact despite having lots of possession we didn't create enough chances. Pantilimon was only really troubled in the last few minutes of the game.

This was always going to be a difficult game but we didn't rise above the mediocrity of Sundelrand but rather we matched them and then paid the consequences.

Not many positives other than this was a new ground for me. Locals were friendly but still not confident that they will escape relegation - what with Arsenal and Chelsea aways as their last 2 fixtures.
1


SaintBrock added 17:00 - May 9

Inept, ineffective and complete tosh. Time for the coaches to stand up and be counted. They're not as good as they think they are. Thank goodness we had points on the board earlier now we look like ending 8th!

8th !!!!
1


codge added 18:43 - May 9

Shambolic,if l showed up to work and put in a shift like this l would be fired. What a pathetic performance, didn't think we could deteriorate this much in such a short time.l wonder if they really want to play in the Europa League,no one really came out of this game with any credit.Both goals were poorly defended and should never of happened,we're we go from here is any body's guess.Supported Saints since 1954 and can't remember such a lackluster display from our team.
1


codge added 18:56 - May 9

Shambolic,if l showed up to work and put in a shift like this l would be fired. What a pathetic performance, didn't think we could deteriorate this much in such a short time.l wonder if they really want to play in the Europa League,no one really came out of this game with any credit.Both goals were poorly defended and should never of happened,we're we go from here is any body's guess.Supported Saints since 1954 and can't remember such a lackluster display from our team.
1


leighsaint added 23:56 - May 9

Why did we let Jack Cork go he would have been our saviour today. We were dire in every department the only one I think really stood out was Reed and he was at fault for thee first goal. This must have been the worst performance of the season do this team want Europe.
2


SaintBrock added 15:51 - May 10

Full marks to the wag who a few weeks ago suggested that Saints, Spurs and L'pool would be fighting out for 7th to avoid the Europa League. We know Poch hates the thing and is now doing his best to avoid it, seems we are as well. At least tell us the truth Ron so that this charade can be put to an end. Obvious our players don't care and it's beginning to look l;ike the coaches don't either.

If that's not the case, then there is something really bad going on in the dressing room, surely Ron has not lost it?
1


MelakaRanger added 16:54 - May 10

Gutless. No fight, no running, no plan, no energy, no ideas, no leadership. I could go on.

This was supposed to be a team fighting for its life. Unlike 3 yrs ago when the team fought, this team didnt give a toss. And the manager obviously couldnt motivate them either. I feel for the fans who travelled, luckily I watched on SKY.At the very least the players should reimburse all fans who attended their ticket money and travel costs.

The players should hang their heads in shame but what do they care. Many will be off in the summer. Even Chaz seems to have given up.

Will Tony F echo the sentiments of us fans or post some more positive propaganda.

And hey Joey. You claim some players have let the club down. Name names!

A total clear out is required., top to bottom.

But then we all know that, do the owners???

1


aceofthebase added 21:13 - May 10

Are these the same players that thrilled us at the beginning of the season? We are not defending as we used to and our attacks quickly become laborious. Fast breakaways slow down until the opposition have set up their defences and then we can pass the ball around as much as we like but we are not going to gete a goal. I too think that Jack Cork would have threaded a ball thru or created something. Too late now tho'.

Points not picked up have cost us, L'pool and Spurs not exactly doing well and we have wasted a golden opportunity.

I normally score 7-9 for our team but this week my highest score is 5 for Harrison Reed and that may be generous
2


snanker added 05:13 - May 11

I'm honestly loft for words, care factor appeared zilch. What a spineless effort. We get everything we deserve, shameful shemozzle.............................clear the decks..................
2


superhoopdownunder added 12:05 - May 11

Disgrace
1


codge added 15:26 - May 16

After the last few games it was so refreshing to see all the players back to early season form.Hopeing this will carry over next week, a shame we conceded another sloppy goal but all in all a great improvement.
1


DPeps added 17:14 - May 16

BOOM!
So glad for Mane, Pelle, and Long. They've taken some stick this season, but all quality of their day. Shout out to Villa too for the defending - presumably we won't be after Vlaar again!
2


gpsgm added 18:07 - May 16

Difficult to understand how the team that gave us Leicester away could give us this. Several notable performances. Pelle so much better again, Long has had his Duracells recharged, Mane made me smile so much Paulo did well and made a couple of good saves and catches. Awesome, lets enjoy it.
4


corkcitysaint added 19:05 - May 16

I was speechless after last weeks horror show against Leicester.Today, I'm speechless after today's performance (first half especially). Where has that team being hiding?! Not a day for negative review or criticism though.

The pitch looked great, the sun was out, the fans were in high spirits and full of voice. We played high tempo, attacking football. We wanted 8 but got 6!

What a goal by Long! and "Catziano" got the cream!

Oh happy day!
4


saintandy11 added 19:26 - May 16

Thought Pelle & Mane had great games but Long was MOM for me. Yes his goals were good (his 2nd was one of the best) but his overall contribution showed his true worth to the club.
4


TimSaint added 11:47 - May 17

How refreshing to see a great performance again, after what has been served up of late.

Should and could have been the 8 or 9 that we were all craving - Pelle was onside for his early disallowed goal, Pelle could have had a couple more and if JWP had some pace, he would have been clean through, but had to check back, but still managed to get a tame shot in.

Disappointing to concede in the manner we did and right before half time. Fonte should have done better, but there were 2 other defenders and a keeper close by, but Benteke still managed to head home an uncharged down cross.

After the break, we sat back a little,but I guess that was only to be expected. We still managed to create a few other great chances, including the superbly worked goal for Pelle, whilst at the other end, Gazza made a couple of good saves.

Anyone else see the clear handball from a corner in the second half ? Nothing much made of it at the time, or spoken about since, but a few of us thought it was nailed on :-)

Little did it matter though, as we had already blasted them away with our attacking play in the first half. Mane was superb, not just with his goals,but his passing, crossing and tiresome running. Likewise Long put in his best performance for Saints with 2 goals and 2 assists. The build up for Mane's 3rd was nothing short of sublime, with Long and Bertrand exchanging passes and Long exposing their flank with pace. Long's 2nd goal was superb, robbing the Villa midfield and firing home from fully 35 yards (or more !).

A pleasing day indeed, especially when one of my best mates is a Villa fan !! Despite them staying up, hopefully this will wipe that stupid smirk off that skate Sherwood's face. Still can't forget him spitting in Magilton's face at the Dell, when he was playing for Blackburn !!

Let's see what happens today and next week, but at least we may have a Euro lifeline of wishing Villa another performance like yesterday - in the FA Cup Final !!
2


Harbour added 19:19 - May 17

a win at last but in a meaningless fixture. first half both sides awful caulker and holiet had a mare. the nufc goal was a terrible piece of defending by caulker. second half we looked brighter and yun and grego cox made a difference. Great cross by Charlie for Matty Phillips to head in nice bit of movement by Greco in the box as well. again nice piece of work by phillips to win the ball and pass to Fer to bury in great style. In truth both sides looked bottom of the table....heartened to see us put a shift in...Nice to see Greeno on the pitch at the end after the head injury and Clint....is this his last time at LR? also Charlie and his son having a long kick about at the end.... see some of you in August...
0


tsbains64 added 08:51 - May 18

Two poor teams that have failed to deliver this season A fantastic goal raised this game but the second half was a lot better for the home team
Barton was immense but was lucky to stay on the pitch-sense prevailed from the ref
Mcarthy made soem good saves but was lucky not to be punished
Will be sad to see so many of the players leave -I dont think there were many mercenaries unlike the last time we went down
0


DPeps added 17:26 - May 24

OK, good season. Great season if you consider the summer we had. But, how good would it have won this game and finish above Brenda and co.?
0


SaintBrock added 17:55 - May 24

We are not quite there yet, a young team versus a very experienced team of top internationals and experience won the day quite easily. Fantastic support 'though and if we can keep this team together they should learn from afternoons like today and can only get better next season. Just at the moment there is too much exuberance and not enough craft and that's the difference between a very good side and a top side. Not surprised at the result, Too many of their players were taking a final bow and were born d to have been up for it although they were all cream-crackered at the end.
0


codge added 19:53 - May 24

We had the chances to get something but back to the bad habits of not being able to finish.This game could of been 5-5 but a lack of finishing has hurt us once more, overall we can hold our heads high this season and look forward to the next one, Coyr.
0


corkcitysaint added 21:21 - May 24

Strangely, I thought we seemed a bit flat today and didn't seem to have much of a game plan. City played well but I think we played in such a way as to make them play well if that makes sense. Just like the game at St. Mary's we didn't pick up the runners up coming from midfield. That seems to be a big difference between us and City. When we get in positions out wide such as they did, we try to find Pelle or "the front man" whereas City play the ball back and have runners coming in from midfield which they score a lot of goals from. Sadly, we find it hard to even hit the target..

I was pleased for Kelvin that he pulled off a couple of good saves today. Mane & Wanyama had a good game overall I thought.

Delighted to see Stevie G and the boys get hammered 6-1. What a way to go out!! Looking forward to watching the highlights of that one...

It's going to be a long summer but can't wait for next season! COYR
0


SaintGeorge added 22:42 - Jul 30

Gotta hope its gonna get better than that. Specially Clasie - Mr Invisible or what?

Nice to see Graziano fail to blast it over the bar - maybe the luck of the angles will be with him this season.

Cedric looks quick, Juanmi looks interesting, everyone else looks like they picked up exactly where they left off last season.

Impressive show Vitesse fans.

-1


gpsgm added 23:58 - Jul 30

Very impressive start against a team that might have troubled us ... but really didn't.
Must pick out Matt Targett for special mention. Another young star from the academy.
Stekelenberg very solid and great kicking. Victor was a rock. Maya has improved so much under Ron. Mane unplayable. Dusan's best penalty so far. Clasie was very quiet and will take time to fit in.

A great night for Saints. Hope we can finish the job next week and move on to the next challenge.
2


Ddobsy added 00:27 - Jul 31

Saints did a professional job, showing lots of promise and keeping Vitesse at bay. The team missed Morgan and Toby, in a glaring way, given their role in the spine of the team. Yoshida was himself, meaning good with a couple of poor decisions and beaten for pace when turned. Clasie lost almost all his 121's and 50-50's. This wasn't so important when he pushed beyond the awesome Victor, but he didn't show for the ball as post overly as Morgan used to.

Mane was unplayable at times until he tired, and how brilliant to have Shane Long to come on. We weren't at last years level, but plenty to be pleased about.
0


WestSussexSaint added 07:51 - Jul 31

Apart from Claisse who looked off the pace and will take time to settle in the rest of the new boys all looked impressive on debut. The rest all looked like they have had a good preseason and played well without ever excelling. Exception was Wanyama who was everywhere.

A solid if unspectacular performance but a nice way to ease into the new season.
1


DPeps added 08:13 - Jul 31

Impressive for our first competitive game of the season. Took our foot off the gas in the second half, but understandable. Back four played well, but Mane and Vic were the stand out performers for me. Classie wasn't at the races but needs time. It may take him months to get up to pace, so I hope fans give him time. Some fans criticised Mane last season - now look at him!
1


NorwegianSaint added 09:20 - Jul 31

The Stek made a great save and looks a reasonable pair of safe hands with good kicking.
Jordy was obviously off the pace but he has been travelling back and forth to Netherlands and the birth of his daughter has probably taken its toll.
Maya played ok but was nearly at fault for the Vitesse chance by just heading it back into play when in row D would have been better.
Fonte was great... and that move that left 2 of their players looking around for the ball was brilliant.
Matt was solid and never did anything wrong
Davis had a solid game
Tadic was good but I felt a lot more confident when Rickie was taking the penalties
Great Goal by our Pelle, worked hard and seemed to be right up for it with his italian temper.
Big Vic was excellent again as was Mane who on his day is electric but Cedric just gets my star player award. His speed and willingness to get up and back makes me forget Clyde

Who's next for a 3-0 hammering?
0


winchesterbob added 09:42 - Jul 31

Considering, that normally we would still be in pre-season and the spine are new to each other, it was a good display if a little flat in the second half.

Mane and Victor were immense, Matt Targett has a fabulous curling long ball forward and Yosh looks more comfortable than ever.

Room for improvement but it is early doors.
0


Consigliere added 12:57 - Jul 31

Being old enough to remember the last time we played in Europe (Stau Bucharest) with all the disappointment that brought I can't tell you how much that game meant to me, and I'm sure to many other supporters. Sure, there were some things that could have been done better but overall, this was a fine performance from a thoroughly entertaining team. What we like to see is flowing, attacking football and that we saw in abundance. Difficult to pick a man of the match but as others have said, Mane and Wanyama are probably the stand-out men. Looking forward to see J Rod play on Sunday.
0


welhamdowed added 14:11 - Jul 31

1st half acceptable but 2nd was poor. I know only like a pre-season so can forget this game really and the result only Important thing. Some players played well, some OK, some poor. Until we're properly tested jury out on how good they are.
0


grampy added 16:26 - Jul 31

Saints allowed to get into the game in the second half as they looked for an away goal. Best game I've seen Wanyama play in a Saints shirt. Mané was a joy to watch, he will be a target for some strong tackling again but if he stays injury free he will give any opposition a hard time.
0


TalkingSutty added 08:01 - Aug 9

A game of two halves and we dominated both. I suspect Borough are a decent team but we ran them off the pitch today and they couldn't match our tempo. Jamie Allen my man of the match.
2


codge added 16:10 - Aug 9

First game we still look nervous at the back, thought Cedric pled very well and looks like a good signing. Some good signs going forward though.Need Bertrand back as soon as possible though, all in all not to bad for the first game.
0


DPeps added 17:02 - Aug 9

Threatening going forward but poor defensively. Even Fonte had a 'mare. Cedric summed us up really: attacking he looks great, but he was caught wrong-side so many times and was lucky not be sent off. Wise decision to sub him, even though his assist for Pelle was excellent. Newcastle looked decent but I'm concerned by how many times we have the ball away in midfield and by the shakiness of our defence. Another CB is a must
0


SaintBrock added 18:25 - Aug 9

An odd line up saw us playing more or less 4-2-4 in the first half and consequently were frequently over-run by the Geordies attack. Luckily Davies & Wanyama soaked up a lot of pressure and gradually wrested midfield away from Colbeck & Co aided I suspect by bringing Long on in place of Rodrigues. Under pressure Soares looked very shaky and you cannot but wonder if he is taking this "step up" to the PL too seriously, it seemed to be weighing on his mind a bit. He was skinned regularly by Gabidon and others found it quite easy to get in behind him and of course their first goal came form that side. Jay didn't really get into the game at all and it was strange to start him when clearly he is not yet match fit or combative enough. Matt did not enjoy his best game today and on this showing isn't really another Luke Shaw. Jose was out of sorts all afternoon but got better support from Martina who took some pressure off second half.

The forwards were erratic as ever but if we don't boss the midfield what are they supposed to do with hurried balls lobbed straight to them? For the brief period towards the end when we did take command of midfield probably because the Geordies tired quicker than us, with the ball held up our strikers were able suddenly to weave their patterns and of course it led to our second goal and what should have been our third. Can't blame Mane for his glaring miss he'd worked his socks off against cynical defenders all afternoon and must have been pooped when at last he was through on goal.

Overall not an auspicious start to proceedings and one can Imagine Ronald being literally hoping mad this evening, certainly days off this week.
0


SaintBrock added 18:27 - Aug 9

Overall not an auspicious start to proceedings and one can Imagine Ronald being literally hopping mad this evening, certainly no days off this week lads.
0


SaintGeorge added 10:01 - Aug 10

Flakey - gonna need a new schneiderlin
0


welhamdowed added 10:58 - Aug 10

Defence looked shaky at times, passing was generally off throughout the game. Played badly and got a result, and could/should have won it. On the face of it not so bad. Once Ron tweaks it and we tidy up we're on the right track still.

Cedric needs support defensively, but going forward he looks decent Thought Cuco did OK when he came on. Jrod needs some games to get that sharpness back. Tadic continues to frustrate with some great play mixed in with sloppy moments. Jose not the usual assured performance we expect from him.
0


rafc1984 added 23:57 - Aug 12

This finished 5 - 3 on pens
0


PezzaSaint added 15:29 - Aug 15

Blimey, do we miss Schnederlin or what! Davis simply can't do that holding role. Hopefully Romeu will prove to be a good acquisition because I think Clasie is to small for the Premier League. Perhaps bought for the Europa League?Everton's forwards bullied us today and we were outnumbered in midfield in the first half. Both Tadic and Long don't bring enough to the team to warrant playing both of them in the same game. Think Long is an impact player only and flatters to deceive when he is played from the start. Pelle did well against a well organised defence. Mane not as effective when out wide, must play off Pelle. We are far to open at the moment and Ron has some work to do!!
4


DPeps added 15:40 - Aug 15

Everton did to us what we were doing to sides last season. For me, first 20 mins were important: if Mane or Pelle score then I'd have fancied us to win 3-0.
Problem is, you can't give sides like Everton a goal head-start, which is essentially what their first goal was. What's especially annoying is that it was almost identical to Newcastle's second goal last week - counter attack and further defensive frailties exposed when the two CBs are upfield.
Midfield was fairly poor. I don't think Vic and Davis works as a partnership. Romeu looked ok when he came on, but all shows how vital Schneiderlin was.
Only positives I can find are in the performances of Mane and Pelle. Ok, they missed chances (especially Pelle), but at least they were doing something.
And to round it all off: still need a CB
4


aceofthebase added 16:44 - Aug 15

I thought that both full backs were very poor and failed to stop fast runs and crosses. Romeu had a reasonable first start, pity about the early booking which may have restricted him.
Evertons fast powerful breaks just overwhelmed us, what a pity we cannot do likewise. Mane and Pelle tried throughout but others such as Tadic were inefff#ective.
We need Bernard urgently plus a lot more. Not a good day.
4


halftimeorange added 17:37 - Aug 15

It was obvious from Newcastle that Targett needs support in front of him so what do they do - they put Shane Long in and what happens is that Targett is hopelessly exposed and bullied. His confidence must have taken a real battering. So, twice the way the team is set up is at fault. Romeu looks as though he can do a job but he should have been on after fifteen minutes as the problems were glaringly obvious. Crossing practice is a must - Cedric, please note. Wanyama and Davis could not cope with their line of four behind Lukaku and what has happened to Jose? He's been a shadow of what he was last season in both opening games.
We're off to a poor start and we have to hope that we don't get into a real slump before the cavalry arrives in the shape of Clasie, Bertrand and a proven CB. So many of the clubs that we would expect to beat have strengthened whereas the Saints are looking weaker than we were. Let's hope it's a temporary glitch. Hope our Danish opponents weren't watching because they're likely to employ similar tactics to Everton.
2


Allan60 added 18:38 - Aug 15

Comfortable win, not much opportunities for palyers to really stand out as the game was played more like a training session.
0


SaintGeorge added 22:16 - Aug 15

Totally outclassed today. Seventh place will be an astonishing achievement if this is what our new improved squad has to offer.
2


saintandy11 added 22:31 - Aug 15

Very poor performance all round. mind you we were playing with just 9 players (Long & Davis just as well have sat in the stand for the use they were).
Only plus I could see was that Romeu looks a good prospect, can't help he must be thinking WTF have I got myself into here?

Hopefully just an all round bad day at the office
1


SaintGeorge added 23:09 - Aug 15

Totally outclassed today. Seventh place will be an astonishing achievement if this is what our new improved squad has to offer.
0


Royboy48 added 23:58 - Aug 15

Shambolic pre-season, unfit players, shed load of new signings, bewildering substitutions, conceding late goals

Lessons learnt? Seems to me we have been here before..

More worrying: Surrendering a 2 goal lead at home will give every championship side the confidence that we can be easily beaten home or away

And right now it seems we can

On this evidence we won't get anything at the Molyneux Wednesday. 1 point from 3 games.

Patience....
0


winchesterbob added 09:54 - Aug 16

I's already been said, Targett too slow, out of his depth and offered no cover from Long, who drifts into the middle too often. Yoshida works hard but struggles with Targetts indecision. Cedric gets forward but leaves gaping holes behind him that Tadic cannot cover, which in turn exposes Fonte. Davis is much better linking play than breaking up the opposition. Romeu looked better next to Wanyama.

Referee looked fairly intent on giving Pelle nothing.

Everton executed a good game plan and worked at our weaknesses.

Indeed there is some work for Ronald to do.
0


tsbains64 added 12:00 - Aug 16

Strange decision making form the coach undermined this game Went into a 2-0 undeserved win and could have won it by 2 or 3 more
Great goal from Cardiff to equalise-was on the cards as Ramsey went defensive with 25 mins to go
Saw some pormise but also a lot of poor control and passing which handed the game back to the visitors
Could have been the last we see of Austin -worked tirelessly
Liked Luongo and Gladwin although the latter faded badly
Think the rebuild will take time -lots of time

0


WestonsuperR added 12:53 - Aug 16

There is no denying we were lucky to be ahead, the late equaliser was the least that Cardiff deserved and a win for us would have masked bigger problems. We lacked a lot of cohesion and seemed disorganised for much of the game, a lack of energy appeared to be an issue as well especially towards the end of the game. Totally understand why there is a call to give CR time but he doesn't help himself with odd substitutions and some poor post match interview's which suggest to me he may find it hard to motivate the team. Definitely in for a tough season just hope Ramsey has the tactical nouse to see us through but his lack of managerial experience really worries me.
0


MelakaRanger added 16:07 - Aug 16

Another year where we will be on a relegation scrap.

Fully expect us to be in bottom 3 by Christmas, then we will see if Tony F is still interested in the club or whether he will leave club to just see what happens? If we go down again I fully expect him to throw in the towel.

Tony F is a great businessman but his venturing into the sports arena has been nothing short of a clustf++k whatever he has got involved with. If he had run QPR like he runs AirAsia we would not be in this mess

He's a nice bloke, truly a very nice bloke but thats been his weakness throughout his tenure at QPR. We have needed someone as hard as nails and someone who knows football, who knows what QPR is about. He isnt and he doesnt.

I worry for this season

0


Harbour added 16:23 - Aug 16

First viewing of the new look Rangers I spent a lot of time trying to get to know the new players and it seemed they need time to get to know each other. The team as a result seem to lack confidence in each other. Play was very fragmented and we just hoofed it up field at every opportunity. Cardiff were a little better but much...by half time I had neck ache from constantly looking up ! We went ahead against run of play and scored second with a hand ball assist so very lucky...at 2 up we gained confidence for a short while but soon came under pressure and you could see them scoring. It was a sickener to concede in 89 minute.....Was not impressed with perch or konchesky...both phillips and JET and Charlie should have wrapped it up with good chances....think we will see a lot of these type of games this season .... But think we will get better as season progresses.
0


sidsaint added 17:10 - Aug 16

It's all been said. The only bright spark I think is Romeu who looks a proper footballer. Now we know why we kept Schneiderlein last season, boy do we and Wanyama miss him, also Clyne and Alderwerald to a lesser extent. Last year our defence was outstanding with a massive positive goal difference, after 2 games we have let in 5 and are minus 3. Get the cheque book out Les.
0


1949er added 22:46 - Aug 18

No creative midfield.running around like headless chickens.do we want to win a game of football,or are we happy not losing?
Great performance from Walsall and their manager dean smith.they will finish higher than us guaranteed.change of midfield personnel required.
-5


TVOS1907 added 23:12 - Aug 18

FFS, we've lost one game out of four and just been beaten by a side who have won at Nottingham Forest and Southend in the last week.

Talk about over-reaction.
5


geraldo added 16:32 - Aug 19

Think that KH picked a team not to lose. With Bennett in a forward position the midfield had no flair going forward and we lacked the pace and zest of the previous two home games. At times we had 6 men in our final 3rd when we were supposedly on the attack!! Don't know why Allessandro is on the bench as KH seems to have no intention of playing him - preferring JB and CA and the ball continuously in the air.On the subject of Hendo - he looks like a player with his mind somewhere else (Barnsley?)
0


SaintBrock added 23:26 - Aug 20

Very much a work in progress. Players should take some time out to get to know each other. Romeu looks to be quite decent. Belle worked his socks off. Lots of huff and puff from JWP but what's the use of a midfielder who can't tackle. Takes good corners 'though and the Caulker goal was legal.
1


corkcitysaint added 07:09 - Aug 21

First have was very pedestrian for our part. Too slow in moving the ball which allowed the opposition to sit back soak up any chances. Was disappointing to concede a goal when we did. Second half we played better, moved the ball quicker and seemed to have more intensity about us which should have been there from the start.

Thought Caulker's goal was legit, Congrats to J-Rod took the penalty well after been left to wait to take it. Targett had a better game last night, JWP actually had some good crosses / corners / free kicks last night. Mane was jinking around as usual, Romeu had a good game but may have suffered a little from picking up an early booking. Bic Vic had a poor game I thought.

Best prize of the night though goes to Midtjylland for time wasting...
2


DPeps added 08:05 - Aug 21

Not sure what's up with us at the start of games at the moment. That's three games in a row now where we've been pretty poor in the opening 45.
Overall we weren't terrible but that's only because the opposition were pretty limited. To be fair Midtjylland had a game plan and it worked. Actually reminded me of some games we struggled in last season where the opposition put up two banks of four that stifled our attacks (e.g. West Brom). Good West Brom-esque time-wasting from Midtjylland too.
Here's where Ron and co earn their money, as we need another plan for the second leg other than lump it up to Pelle (who was excellent by the way).

Lastly, Fonte. Don't know what's happening with him but hope he can get some form back. Thought Yoshida had a better game than him, even playing massively out of position at RB
1


Jesus_02 added 12:03 - Aug 21

Unsure about Caulker, got a good goal looked a threat and seemed solid. But kep t launching the ball forward. I hope that wasnt his instructions and that he can develope into a player that can make and recieve a simple pass. If he can he willbe class if not he will limit the rest of the team.

Sadio Mané, Oriol Romeu looked class and I have rated Yoshida quite highly because he was out of possition but very solid. He has a good understanding with Fonte and nothing looked like troubling the pair of them down the right. He was completly toothless going forward, but then he IS a CB

JWP just isnt good enough
0


gpsgm added 15:18 - Aug 21

Steks kicking superb, Maya gets the blame for defensive midfield frailties, Caulker improving, Long off-day, Mane became more assertive as they tired, but so did he, Juanmi came on in the centre and we decided to go wide at that point. JWP & Pelle joint MOTM.
0


corkcitysaint added 20:18 - Aug 23

Both sides huffed and puffed. Both sides lacked quality.

Todays match reminded me a little of last years home game to West Brom. Defensive but lacked creativity.

Today was about not losing and ideally keeping a clean sheet too. However, our lack of guile in attack was disappointing. Had Mane stayed on, maybe we would have got something as his pace did seem to cause Watford problems. Aside from that, we resorted to long ranges shots that never caused any problems.

Romeu and Fonte were the stand out players for me followed by Cedric.

A point and a clean sheet at least gives us a foundation to build on. I am a tad worried that we do not have enough about us at the moment to break down a determined, defensive Danish side though. We really have to come out of the blocks in that one.
1


SaintBrock added 00:06 - Aug 24

Better defensively but at the cost of no link up play and only scraps for the strikers to work on. No doubt Ron was back to basics to try and regain some defensive cohesion and consistency and opted from start for a clean sheet draw. Once that is established with perhaps Bertrand coming back in after the break and Soares looking better we can at least get a settled back four and with Romeu looking a class act in midfield perhaps by the end of September we will be getting back closer to where we were last year. Of course if it is really true that Wanyama doesn't want to be here, the chance of establishing a settled excellent midfield defensive partnership with Romeu will go out the window.

For now we are in the relegation zone with no immediate prospect of getting away from it.
0


VancouverSaint added 03:43 - Aug 24

I know it's early days but today was against Watford! Scraped into PL. I know we will settle down eventually but we need a shot of confidence. Clean sheets are good but everyone loves to see goals. Goals win games. I've been saying for months that we need Charlie Austin. Proven goal scorer (4 already) and an excellent alternative to our one and only true big man, Pelle. He is there waiting for someone to pay £15m for....a bargain! Get him and Van Dijk and we are set. Probably £25m for the two, but we can afford them. Caulker and Romeu look to be good pick ups but it's a long season. We need depth, cover and alternates for the injuries that are bound to happen. Next week we need to win in Denmark and win in the league on Sunday but at this point in time I'm not confident of either.
0


10i added 08:56 - Aug 24

The only thing I'm quite happy with, is that our matches are easy to bet. In the first two PL-games the Formation made it obvious that it would mean some goals and with yesterdays formation meant there hardly could be more than one... Going for clean sheets of course isn't the worst thing, but if you play Watford and put on a 7-1-2 formation than this is somehow worrying if you think in terms of ambition. With a team and tactics like that you can't complain lacking creativity or goals, I doubt that having Messi or Ronaldo alone up front would have managed to change that - so for sure Austin couldn't neither.
If you start looking for a point in such a game then you surely accept that avoiding relegation is the only goal. Every made substitution underlined this. Watford looked far more likely to score than us despite this and with the injury of Mane there was noone left but Pelle who you could hope for to score. And when I was hoping for Tadic or Junami to come on and try to make a difference with one of the 7 defensive Players making way, there came JWP for Davis to make the team (and our offense) even weaker...
I personally rather watch a 2-2 at Newcastle with a formation that at least shows ambition even though it won't ever keep a clean sheet than being bored to death with this tactical approach at PL-Giants Watford...
0


10i added 09:18 - Aug 24

The only thing I'm quite happy with, is that our matches are easy to bet. In the first two PL-games the Formation made it obvious that it would mean some goals and with yesterdays formation meant there hardly could be more than one... Going for clean sheets of course isn't the worst thing, but if you play Watford and put on a 7-1-2 formation than this is somehow worrying if you think in terms of ambition. With a team and tactics like that you can't complain lacking creativity or goals, I doubt that having Messi or Ronaldo alone up front would have managed to change that - so for sure Austin couldn't neither.
If you start looking for a point in such a game then you surely accept that avoiding relegation is the only goal. Every made substitution underlined this. Watford looked far more likely to score than us despite this and with the injury of Mane there was noone left but Pelle who you could hope for to score. And when I was hoping for Tadic or Junami to come on and try to make a difference with one of the 7 defensive Players making way, there came JWP for Davis to make the team (and our offense) even weaker...
I personally rather watch a 2-2 at Newcastle with a formation that at least shows ambition even though it won't ever keep a clean sheet than being bored to death with this tactical approach at PL-Giants Watford...
0


tsbains64 added 16:58 - Aug 24

great win-started off slugishly but roared into a 3 nil almost did a cardiff but Poulter won a good penalty to seal it 4-2
Austin worked hard but Luongo was the star
Felt the defense needed some work but 4 games in -this is a team in development
Expected to win and did win We play better teams but cans see the potential of this team
0


DPeps added 22:26 - Aug 27

Weird team selection given that our main aim should have been to score goals. Depressing reliance on long balls (again). I know some of us don't rate Europa League but opportunities like this don't come along often.
I'm intrigued to see what positives Nick can squeeze out of this...
2


TissLeGod added 22:39 - Aug 27

No ideas, slow and playing as if it was a practice match. The team have forgotten how to play. No amount of spin can make their performances this season look good. No positives. If this was the result of last season's hard work you question what the point was. Massive respect to those who travelled and those who have bought season tickets. The board need an EGM pronto to save this club as the league positions don't lie.
1


SaintBrock added 08:51 - Aug 28

These are very depressing days for Saints fans. I have watched Saints all my life but never have seen such a woeful and ugly performance as that of the first half last night. Everything we have learned and built here over the last six years seemingly come to nought, cast away as 'though it never happened. This has been truly our death by a thousand cuts. Was this a sign of surrender from Koeman? Out of sorts all season and no magic recipe last night, is he still with us?

Perhaps his own inability to persuade Clyne, Alderweireld & Schneiderlin to remain with him (he had a year to talk them round after all) has undermined his own self esteem and sowed real seeds of doubt - and now the suggestion that Wanyama & Mane may feel the same way!

Good managers and coaches don't become bad managers and coaches overnight so evidently all is not well in our camp, so now the question is will he walk if VVD cannot be persuaded to come here either. I hope not but fear Norwich may be the last game with him and his brother at the helm.

If that happens we may have to settle for Big Sam! - "always look on the bright side of life"

-1


Consigliere added 09:43 - Aug 28

Well it was horrible and I want that 90 minutes of my life back again - no midfield, no urgency, no cohesion and no ideas.

But...

We've been here before and in recent memory. On a horrible wet night in Sheffield last year I watched what I thought was the worst performance I have ever seen from a Saints team, under the same manager and with many of the same players. Indeed a few better players took the trip north than were on the field in Denmark last night. How quickly things can change, although change they certainly must. Its not yet time for panic and meltdown.

Nothing worthwhile in this life is learned from success alone, but hell, do we need to learn from our mistakes!
1


sidsaint added 10:36 - Aug 28

Poor performance. A shadow of last year's side. I think we need a striker as well as a centre back and if Vic is off we need a defensive midfielder . Jay Rod needs much more time. RK will have to earn his money this season. Is there a rift between him and Les?
0


LongDongSilva added 11:15 - Aug 28

When are Koeman and the board gunna realize its too early to put pressure on Jay to perform and Pelle has a good game one in every 5/6 but ultimately he looks a tired karthourse that's run to Africa and back not a 30 year old Itallian international with a point to prove. The main problems is the service to Pelle/Jay from the midfield Mane appears to be the only Saints player capable of creating a chance for himself or the team out of nothing rather than via a laboursem build up that finishes with a hopeful ball into the middle. We know Pelle doesn't have the capability to create a chance for himself so if you don't supply him he's not a Lambert he won't score. Tadic is far to hit and miss (more miss) and predictable I know many fans don't rate him but there is a perfectly good attacking mid/ Winger in Ramirez just sat there doing nothing. I think its important to note Ramirez was only £1 million more than Tadic and scored 5/6 premier league goals, (all from open play not precarious penalty's) in his first season in England which is more than Tadic as well as supplying a number of Assists and game changing contributions in the second half of the 2013/14 season, (the dunked through ball for Lallanas winner against West From for example). Many fans complain Ramirez can be illusive in games but Tadic ppprobably more so. Ramirez could be just the player to help kick start our season, he's still young and has more variety and a better shot than Tadic + he can take a free kick to a better level than any1 in our team currently, barring Ward Prowse and can play on the wing or behind Pelle. Les and the board have shown this Summer that their clearly not willing to reinvest so they could do far worse than to look at Ramirez especially as its a chance for them to save yet more money, unless the fact that he's a Courtese signing is a stumbling block...
1


forest_saint added 11:27 - Aug 28

Totally agree Long Dong, a man who talks some sense, bring Ramirez back! Oh just realised he has'nt actually gone he's just being ignored by koeman.
1


Horndeansaint added 11:44 - Aug 28

There seems to be a certain something about cup competitions. We talk the talk but when it comes to the walking, we seem to show zero interest.
I had the misfortune to go to Sheffield United, saw how we tried our hardest to NOT get a Europa League spot and then last night was just the most inept, disinterested performance you could ever imagine. Is there something within the club that says "focus on the Premier League and nothing else?". I can't think of any other reason why we would be so absolutely awful in what should have been our most important 2 matches for several years.
-1


Pecky3 added 12:03 - Aug 28

I was actually disgusted by the all-round performance of the team and the lack of enthusiasm shown by the players. There was no sign of enthusiasm from the bench. For Koeman to blame the referee is nonsense! his team selection was poor. Why did Tadic not start?? Why were Juanmi and Soares on the bench. these were meant to be key signings but Koeman does not play them! The formation was c**p too. Virtually five defenders. Why substitute Caulker and leave Yoshida on the pitch is another mystery! It is going to be a long hard season unless somehow Koeman can get it sorted. A central defernder is need I agree but after last night we need another 3 or 4 decent players. We have a young central defender in Jack Stephens who could do better than all of them there last night but we let him go on loan - crazy management. Has Koeman lost the plot???
-1


Ddobsy added 13:43 - Aug 28

The referee could have kept us in it, but in the end we weren't good enough.
0


SaintBrock added 14:33 - Aug 28

These are very depressing days for Saints fans. I have watched Saints all my life but never have seen such a woeful and ugly performance as that of the first half last night. Everything we have learned and built here over the last six years seemingly come to nought, cast away as 'though it never happened. This has been truly our death by a thousand cuts. Was this a sign of surrender from Koeman? Out of sorts all season and no magic recipe last night, is he still with us?

Perhaps his own inability to persuade Clyne, Alderweireld & Schneiderlin to remain with him (he had a year to talk them round after all) has undermined his own self esteem and sowed real seeds of doubt - and now the suggestion that Wanyama & Mane may feel the same way!

Good managers and coaches don't become bad managers and coaches overnight so evidently all is not well in our camp, so now the question is will he walk if VVD cannot be persuaded to come here either. I hope not but fear Norwich may be the last game with him and his brother at the helm.

If that happens we may have to settle for Big Sam! - "always look on the bright side of life"

-1


gpsgm added 15:32 - Aug 28

Simply ...
They made no real mistakes in the 2 legs even though they were uninspiring that's how teams from smaller leagues progress. They were Champions and that's obviously how they did it.

We made a crucial mistake in each leg that they scored from.

The refs made a crucial mistake in each leg and that cost us.

We've got to take our early chances and then we can play with more confidence.

Tadic cross near end should have been our equaliser but they were so good defensively.
0


Yorkshire_Dale added 19:10 - Aug 29

10 points up!...........get in.

Fantastic stuff at San Spotty right now.........no,we don't need any more players.

Just loads more supporters.
0


Yorkshire_Dale added 19:10 - Aug 29

10 points up!...........get in.

Fantastic stuff at San Spotty right now.........no,we don't need any more players.

Just loads more supporters.
0


upthedale2403 added 22:08 - Aug 29

Great game for the dale every player was outstanding rafferty played a blinder in the centre of the park Donal McDermott just gets better and better Jamie Allen was imense again and big Calvin and Hendon were all over the tired Barnsley defense
0


halftimeorange added 17:03 - Aug 30

Saints dominated Norwich from the off and the fans supported from the off. Norwich lost a man but would almost certainly have lost the match even with eleven. Saints were set up in a system which suited them and against weak opponents it told. Norwich were under siege midway through the second half. There were several very good performances - Mane (apart from a number of wayward passes), Cedric (and his linking with Mane was really encouraging), Tadic (who showed just how good he can be) and Romeu (for me, man of the match, dominating midfield in both tackling and passing accuracy). What a shame this wasn't the way Saints played in Denmark. It was very positive, though.
1


Consigliere added 17:47 - Aug 30

AT THE RISK of saying "Told you so........."

Several lessons were learned today, though a few remain outstanding.

Lessons learned:

1. Don't pass backwards unless you really have to - press the opposition higher up the pitch, as JWP did to good effect leading to the first goal with his slick pass through to Mane and allowing Pelle to turn the ball in on goal
2. Don't give up on any apparently lost ball (see above)
3. Use the full width of the pitch - Mane on the right and Tadic on the left were a potent combination
4. Get the ball to the byline before crossing (see above)
5. Most games are won and lost in the midfield - make sure you pass accurately between yourself
6. Don't lump the ball up to Pelle and hope for the best - play on the ground

Lessons still to be learned:

1. Don't panic in defence, take you time and be measured about it. An unnecessary corner was sacrificed this way
2. Don't encourage the ref to show the card to your opponents and don't celebrate when he does, Yes you Tadic, its not seemly
3. Enjoy your success but don't get carried away with it (see above

And finally a lesson to be learned by all the players - you are highly paid employees but that is all you are. In the end you do as you are told. So Mr Wanyama if you aren't "mentally in the right place" to place for Saint first team then you can damn well play for the reserves until you are. Clear?
4


sidsaint added 21:36 - Aug 30

What a difference from Thursday. Quality all over the pitch. Some great stuff at times. Now lets get a centre half in and see the window close. With Bertrand and others to return and Jay Rod getting a great run out today the future looks a lot better. Well done RK for getting them fired up.
2


welhamdowed added 23:14 - Aug 30

On a day when the result mattered the most we got a good performance and result, but it was at home against a 10 man promoted side so I'm not gonna get too carried away. Oriol was my motm and looks a decent buy already.
0


SaintBrock added 09:25 - Aug 31

The best performance yet from James Ward Prowse his 44th minute tackle back which set up the through pass to Mane for Pelle to convert was probably his best moment yet in the PL. Overall we looked up for this match but not in a ragged hit and hope gung-ho sort of way. The first time this season that we actually seemed to have purpose and movement and no little skill in keeping and passing the ball.

I was surprised how naive and slow were Norwich, they had looked so much better on TV highlights this season and likely to provide a stern tents our fragile morale. Yesterday the gulf between Pl and Championship was quite evident and Norwich for sure will need to 'up' their game to survive at this level.

Still, you can only beat what's in front of you and the defeats of Chelsea and Liverpool just goes to show how easy it is to get into the mindset of everyone else going forwards whilst we are going backwards. Clearly, we will all being feeling slightly more optimistic today that the top six is still within our reach even if we will need the certainty of VVD joining us, a settled Wanyama and a retuning duo of Clasie and Bertrand showing the world class qualities that they have become renowned for.
0


RogerToye added 12:11 - Sep 5

All my mates who support the saints, say why o why didn't we play this team on Thursday. They were moving the ball around playing it up field not hoofing iit up to Pelle. Tadic Mane Romeu and Soares were excellent so too was Pelle and JWP. Tagert redeemed himself though can't get the cross in like Betrand and great to see Roddy get a half he cracked a couple Willing to shoot from outside the box shows the variety is back.

We are frustrated not to have the odd European excursion look were we might have enjoyed going too and pitting up against Napoli Brugge and somewhere in Poland Waaaahhhh.. but maybe not as much as the players will be, lest they didn't fancy Thursday/ Sunday.

Still forth is realistic if everybody is fit so is a good cup run with the depth we have now keep clean sheet's because we will score goals...
0


Harbour added 16:23 - Sep 12

well I thought NF were the better side in a poor game lacking quality we missed Ali Faurlin creativity..started second half well Charlie took his goal well. NF never really made many chances. Rob Green has saved us many times but the one mistake cost us 3 points today...not sure why he did not just put it out for a corner.....Smithies made one good save...could have done better with a poor penalty and should have saved the winner. In truth we looked clueless when we went down to 10 men could not retain possession and put ourselves under a lot of pressure..
0


Phil_S added 18:07 - Sep 12

It's a real shame that the international break came when it did as it has taken away the momentum that we had after the Man Utd game. What we need to do though is bounce back - we have not become a bad team overnight and Monk will have the team up for it next Saturday without a doubt
0


warrior87 added 18:08 - Sep 12

AWFUL DISPLAY SECOND BEST FOR THE 97MINS ,WAS THE MANAGER HAVING A LAUGH WHEN HE SAID ON THE PAPERS THAT" THE PLAYERS WERE EAGER TO GET BACK TO PLAYING AGAIN"
0


curleigh added 18:11 - Sep 12

Swansea were very poor today and Watford deserved the win.
0


forallthesaints added 09:20 - Sep 13

Hate to praise Pulis but really good to hear him talking about Macmanaman's dive. Saints were telling better team but dithered on the final pass and refused to take risks with a speculative shot here and there. Biggest bright spot was Van Dijk. Very composed defensively and teamed up well with Fonte. His skill was excellent and his distribution was brilliant. He'll be the player all the bigger clubs will want next summer.
1


SaintBrock added 10:23 - Sep 13

No question that VVD was our best player by far today and looked a class above some of our regulars. Didn't understand Soares being subbed unless he got a knock. Mane didn't start presumably because of his late return for Africa and just as well, he was awful. Targett doesn't inspire confidence and his controversial tackle was just plain hot headed and juvenile. Pelle was useless, he seems to be a very limited player these days and unless the ball is given him on a plate by Tadic he doesn't seem to be able to influence a game at all.

What was the story with Romeu? He was on the bench and I would have thought that with his quality it was a no brainer to stick him in alongside Vic as the regular starter who by the way was the only other player to come out of this with any credit.

Ron says he was satisfied (really?) so OK in the sense that we didn't lose, had 70% ball possession and got more game time under our belts to settle in our new squad you could call it progress of a sort. We were far too cautious once again, too many square or back passes and painfully slow in our build-ups so that there were always nine men behind the ball. We just do not have an attacking midfielder who can create something from nothing and open up defences.

The table is beginning to reflect what most thought that we will be a good mid-table team this season rather than a front runner. Unless we can start winning as opposed to not losing soon this might turn out to be a mediocre season. Teams know how we play and with no new creative players there isn't much chance we are going to surprise anybody and catch them off guard.
4


thairanger added 14:51 - Sep 13

No plan clueless performance
0


Sigurdsson23 added 23:25 - Sep 13

Very poor performance from the Swans, quite disappointed with Monks tactics, well you could say it was the international break fatigue or whatsoever but for me it ultimately came to Monks team selection and tactics.
For starters he named an unchanged team that won against Manchester United, he also had six players who also played their part for their national team, this wouldve been a perfect opportunity for other players to make a start for instance Tabanou couldve made a debut but he wasnt even in the bench, also maybe give Britton a bit of game time instead of Shelvey. Ayew couldve shouldve switched from the left to right cause he was getting pressed and marked on the left to a point where he under performed and didnt have the freedom to play, and therefore put barrow on the right and use his skill and pace to do some damage on the right, also Grimes couldve played a role either subbed on for Sigurdsson or Sigurdsson replace Grimes in the number 10 role because Grimes has excelled in the position a few times showing promise and a chance for him to get some experience and gametime to help him further and develop his talent.
0


RogerToye added 14:44 - Sep 16

I liked Rodriguez movement seems to double up for Pelle We need another option through the middle we should have started with the wing play v Norwich which was great to watch. West Brom where the same team as Norwich in fact minus Ricky they were probably worse. Mane should have started and then subbed not the other way around.

Romeu should start next to a fortunate Victor who was solid
Turning possession into final third threat needs some variation
3 at the back 5 in the middle and 2 up front will carve these teams open
0


Shunter added 09:11 - Sep 17

Another weak home performance which will not improve until Ramsey sets up the team differently and learns
how and when to use substitutes. Playing Henry & Tozser together didnt work against Forest but he continued with it when the game was crying out for Faurlin to put in some creative forward passes.

For those fans that moan about mistakes that Greeno makes, accept it, he is the best we got by a long way !
0


welwynhoop added 09:45 - Sep 17

They out muscled everyone apart from Mackie. They got to every loose ball, almost every header and were willing to chase lost causes. We were not strong enough or determined enough. We had no mid field to speak of and Ramsey should have taken off Henry or Tozser or both. Very, very disappointing.
0


Harbour added 20:30 - Sep 17

Ref and lino made horrible decisions but for smithies we could have been 3 down at HT. Rovers second goal was class from Rhodes...nice take from Ned to make up for it with great headed goal...clear pen and Luongo should have scored....Mackie made a difference and won the corner that ned scored from...another good performance from Charlie
0


Royboy48 added 22:11 - Sep 17

Puzzled by team selection
Puzzled by the substitution
Puzzled why no other substitutions
Puzzled by formation
Puzzled by tactics
Puzzled why Charlie was kept on the sidelines so long
Disappointed in too many poor performances - by both teams
Wondering when CR is going to come up with a coherent matchday strategy
Other than that, the Ron Springett moment was observed appropriately

Thinking of him - and looking at the brilliant shot of Parksie in the Gala Night advert on the screen, I remarked to John (FL Block F44) that it's a shame that neither of them is available tp play for us now....
0


Allan60 added 19:27 - Sep 19

Bit of a rarity up the Liberty, this afternoon, in the form of a 0 - 0 score against Everton. Don't see many of them! Not a particularly inspiring match, not helped by a referee who would have struggled at Ashleigh Road. Suppose that Everton will be happier with their point than Swansea, although they did finish the match with 10 men after Kevin Miralis was sent off about 90 seconds after having come on as a substitute. Still, a point towards safety
0


Yorkshire_Dale added 20:24 - Sep 19

Great result.........very lacklustre performance from Dale. Not so much McNulty more McArdle in his distribution from the back........thank goodness the introduction of Calvin the Galviniser and Joe Bunny gave us the much needed impetus to put the game to bed in the end.........3 good points but very mediocre display.

Millwall next......oh well!
0


pedrodale added 20:38 - Sep 19

We won, that is all
0


Phil_S added 09:47 - Sep 20

An entertaining game and at times it felt like our goal was living a charmed life. Best chance though fell to Gomis in the first half which he pulled wide and if Ki had been more composed at the end then we could have possibly nicked it with the last chance. Big improvement in performance though from last week and now let's have a look at the COC and see how we get on against Hull in midweek
0


DPeps added 18:22 - Sep 20

Both teams were hopeless and excellent in equal measure, which made for an entertaining game.

We were excellent in the first 30 mins, pressing well and exploiting Utd's weaknesses. Then we dropped off for no apparent reason and started inviting attacks, so that Utd's first goal was inevitable. Second half continued in the same way, inviting attack after attack, and it was only when Pelle got his second that we actually looked decent again.

People will rightly blame Yoshida for the second Utd goal, but we actually gifted Utd all three of their goals: not clearing our lines properly for first goal (which was offside) and letting Utd walk through us for their third. I'm concerned that we seem to have a worrying tendency to capitulate when we concede, and at times in the second half it looked like it could turn into a rout.

Tactics-wise, I don't understand why we didn't continue to expose their channels as we did in the first 30 mins. Mane had Blind on toast, as did Pelle. And I'm not sure I see the logic of playing a left-footed player at RB and bringing on a right-footed player at LB.
5


corkcitysaint added 18:37 - Sep 20

"IF"

IF Pelle had scored his second goal instead of hitting the post.
IF we had cleared the ball properly instead of fluffing about.
IF the linesman (sorry, referees assistant..) had given off-side.
IF we had stuck to our game plan.
IF we had kept it to 1-1 longer into the second half.
IF Yosh hadn't under hit his back pass (or was he attempting passing to Fonte?).
IF we hadn't given Utd so much space!
IF De Gea hadn't pulled of a great save from Fonte.
IF we had got a goal back earlier.
IF we want to win games and climb the table.. we need to keep our composure.

1


TimSaint added 19:22 - Sep 20

Great for 30 mins but I feared we would rue the missed chance when Pelle hit post and low behold. De Gea was different class and pulled off at least 5 great saves and should have got the press MoM rather than Martial.
Strange how we dropped off and sat back for the last 15 of the first half and although their goal was offside, Prowse should have cleared.
Maya screwed up big time just like Fonte last season.
Joke was really on us for the 3rd with 45 (yes forty fvcking five) passes before the goal. We then only started showing some fight and desire once Pelle made it 3-2, Unlucky in the end with more class saves, but why so slack for nearly an hour.
Disappointing that so many were leaving with 15 left.
Finally, what did United have to do to get a yellow? so much they got away with (including martial elbow on vvs) , yet vvd and Fonte got yellows for their first real fouls.. Guess we will just have to win at Old Trafford again then.
1


SanMarco added 01:23 - Sep 21

Hugely dispiriting to throw it away against a team that were never, even when on top, that impressive. Pelle should hace made it 2-0 but when he didn't we suddenly seemed to lose something and invited them on to us. Yes it was offside but Yoshida tackled with his left foot and pushed the ball towards the centre. Why wasn't Soares playing? Yoshida's horror back pass was unacceptable and after the third I feared 4 or 5 for a while. We got a second out of the blue and could easily have equalised.

Our problems this season are in the full back positions. I thought Soares was supposed to be the first choice right back. Martina is hopeless and and Yoshida showed us today that he is always an accident waiting to happen. I thought Targett was better today but we need Bertrand back for his movement forward.

Finally to follow on from comments about tactics - why did we change? I didn't see Man U do anything to make us change - so why?
0


Phil_S added 06:20 - Sep 23

A wasted evening for the Swans with plenty of chances in the game, certainly more than enough to win the game. One of the things we will know from 5 years in the PL is that if you do not take your chances you are likely to win the game and this was proven again last night against a side with recent PL experience. Good luck to Hull in the next round but hugely frustrating that we are out of a competition that we have the ability to go a long way in. I guess there is always the FA Cup...
0


OldPedro added 22:35 - Sep 25

We don't know how to defend.

End of match report!
0


MelakaRanger added 07:56 - Sep 26

Ramsey. Nice bloke but Clueless.

With these players as the raw material our performances are woeful.

I fear that Ramsey will lead us into another relegation
0


BostonR added 07:57 - Sep 26

Being watching for 45yrs and have seen us beaten heavily many times. Last night was a shambles from the first min. What on earth happened in the dressing room before kick off? Time for CR to go who is worse than Arry.
0


HastingsRanger added 13:06 - Sep 26

Shocking from the off. Second to every ball. Players played as if they had just had a Sunday lunch. Full backs were woeful. How come this team could play so well at Hull and so poorly at Fulham?
0


Phil_S added 17:05 - Sep 26

Again we were below our best and we were suitably punished for it. Too many players were off their game and despite plenty of possession we struggled to create any chances and the Southampton defence had a reasonably easy afternoon. That's four games and just one penalty and one point to show for it and that is something we need to address and quickly. The wins over Man Utd and Newcastle seem a long time ago
0


TimSaint added 19:18 - Sep 26

Phil - you were allowed the possession because we had the goals. Asee learnt under Pochettino, possession doesn't guarantee results.

The ref did his best to ruin this oine, with his 90 mins of power, blowing for so many non and unnecessary fouls, it was quite unbelievable.

We were good in places and bad in others, but overall we fully deserved the win.

Again though, once we got in front, there was a tendency to drop off or sit back like lsst weekend. With Pelle not looking his usual busy self and Tadic not being direct enough, the chances of quick breaks and passing moves came to a halt with these 2 too often.

It was great to see Bertrand back and we had a better shape with him in the team. Cedric also did well, even when the Swansea winger came on at half time.

VVD is off the mark and will probably notch from a free kick or 2 this season.

Not sure Juanmi was the best sub for this game and personally i would have brought on Long or even put Long on for Pelle.

As much as I like it, I am glad we didn't see the Panther goal celbration from Gomis :-)

Still a good day at the office and hopefully that cangive us the momentum requiredto get a result next week at the bridge - at the time of writing it is Newcastle 2 - 1 Chelsea.
0


winchesterbob added 10:06 - Sep 27

Like the game at Stadium MK, very stop start. Great to see a goal from a set piece, and pleased that VVD is off the mark, could have been two but for some good goalkeeping. Lost our shape a bit after Davis went off and J W-P moved further forward allowing Swansea more of the ball. Referee over fussy, which didn't help the game, blew up every time Ayew threw himself to the grass in the hope of Wanyama getting a card. Mane MOM again for me, he is a non-stop running machine and deserved his goal.
0


Consigliere added 21:02 - Sep 27

A STRANGE SORT OF GAME really. RK was clearly correct in describing this as an unsatisfactory performance despite the outcome. The fans around me were moaning about Mane and Tadic until they each scored, and how Wanyama remained on the pitch for 90 minutes I will never know, but the fact is that they did and he did and in the end its all about results. Some hopeful signs: Van Dyke was excellent and would have had my vote for man of the match even if he hadn't scored: Pelle was immense once again and Ryan Betrand is nearly back to his best. Even though Mane was a bit off the pace I love his attitude: He has a great relationship with the crowd, cheerleading each time he gets the chance and obviously loving playing for the Saints. Davis was solid in midfield, a much under-rated player in my opinion, and the goalkeeper had a confident game even if he gave us a few heart-stopping moments. Overall I am quietly confident for the season, but the long-term key is keeping the manager in place. I have to warn that I was with some Dutch guys in France last week and all they could talk about is when he comes home to manage their national side......
0


Toffeemanc added 11:02 - Sep 30

After 15 minutes it just looked like a question of how many we would score, and you were thinking Shrewsbury could easily be battling relegation this season of the evidence of what we had seen. In the end we were under pressure and hanging on a little, and Shrewsbury had proved to be a very pacy attacking side who look to have some good players and a decent team. It was a great game to watch and one any neutrals would have enjoyed, a good advert for League 1 football.
A special mention for Calvin Andrew who turned in an immense performance which was only missing a goal, which he would have richly deserved. At times in the first half he looked almost unplayable, long may it continue.
1


DPeps added 19:40 - Oct 3

Yes yes yes. Sometimes supporting the saints is great.
Fully deserved. Van Dijk - immense, JWP - great, Cedric looked good. Mane was amazing. We were playing against the ref for most of the game (how Jose can say ref was biased against Chelsea is beyond me!).

Media of course will focus on Chelsea but we were better. End of
2


SaintBrock added 22:02 - Oct 3

What a team we are turning out to be as new recruits settle in. Right now we look a class act and top four is not unrealistic.
2


Shunter added 22:33 - Oct 3

Great match to watch with some great goals, accept the fact that CR will not be sacked so forget about conceding 2-3 goals every match, just attack attack attack and score more than we concede, we have the attacking players so lets make use of them. My personal opinion is that Ramsey is so way out of his depth but Sir Les is never going sack his mate.
0


Bettwsresident added 07:24 - Oct 4

The perfect tonic to the shambles at Twickenham.

VVD was supreme (what a signing!), Pelle bullied Cahill and Terry into the ground, Mane was unplayable and looks world class. They were terrified of him and the fear spread throughout the team. Watching Tadic beat Ivanovic on the byline late in the 2nd half was beautiful! If JWP had been on in the first half we would have won by more, the only negative is that he seems the only one who can take a corner.

Kids were terrified as I screamed the house down when Pelle smashed in the third! It was a perfect goal

Best moment was when VVD brought the ball to the edge of their penalty area and then froze! The only negative point of an immense performance by him. We now have a CB who is doing a great impression of Rio in his pomp.

If we don't have any injuries over the international break I think we are about to go on one hell of a run. 12 goals in last 3 games. Every part of the team is looking good. Happy days..
2


WestSussexSaint added 08:59 - Oct 4

Taxi for Mourinho!
1


aceofthebase added 09:29 - Oct 4

Where will Clasie fit in?
0


SaintGeorge added 09:44 - Oct 4

One of the best ever.
0


corkcitysaint added 09:58 - Oct 4

Great overall team performance and a fantastic result. I thought we showed too much respect to Chelsea in the first 20 mins or so and stood off them and allowed them to play and control the game . Was a bit disappointed with Steke for conceding the goal which was practically a replica of Willian's goal against N'castle. Thats the negative over.

Positive is a great, confident team showing. I thought Pelle was fantastic yesterday, his hold up play excellent Sadio was quiet for most of the first half then came alive and ran Chelsea 's back line ragged! VVD was excellent,calm and composed. JWP was great when he came on. Cedric / Bertrand played great. Just a great team performance. Even Davis scored! shock, horror!!

Saints fans were fantastic, full of voice!

On Chelsea, Ivanovic is a thug!

0


Phil_S added 19:27 - Oct 4

Hugely entertaining game and could easily have gone either way. Think we missed Cork today more than we realise and I firmly believe that either him or Britton should always be in the team. Ki bottled many challenges today that I don't think either of them would have bottled. Fernandez must have done something bad in a previous life as he is so unlucky when it comes to bringing the best out of a goalkeeper but all in all more than happy with a point and that sets us up well for coming back after the international break
0


Allan60 added 19:30 - Oct 4

Very entertaining 2-2 result this afternnon, a fair reflection of the game, even if Spurs did score 3 out of the 4 goals! Much improved performance by the Swans, with Captain Ash superb in defence, once again. Old man Rangel made surprise start and showed that he still has a lot of guile and skill to offer the team. Gylfi ran and ran and ran and ran... Afraid that Gomis was disappointing in his execution and does not appear to be as sharp as he was at the end of last season. Overall a good afternnon, shame to hear that Liverpool have sacked Brenda though!!
0


Royboy48 added 08:24 - Oct 5

We're all probably happy today, but only because we won. Without the 94th minute Jet- out- of-jail card, we would all be lathering in spume spattered anti-Ramsey invective.

Negatives: non existent defensive unit fails in its attempt to concede more goals than we score on this occasion. Karl Henry. Again. He must know where the bodies are buried...

Positives; Jet, Leroy step up to the plate. Konchesky' best game, Cheri redeemed. Return of the Beast. QPR top Championship scoring charts.

Jury out; Angella and Toczer

Loved the last 2 goals, though. And the jerk chicken outside the Springbok...
0


tsbains64 added 08:29 - Oct 5

a roller coaster game that showed good resilience from the Rs . We were fortunate we were playing Bolton anyone else we we would have sunk in the first half JET was impressive and great to see Chery back to form after the Fulham game Not sure what is happening at the back -need a leader to organise. hope Chief is up to it Fer was hungry for the ball and ina few games will be running the show Exhiliarting fisnish-loved the never say die attitude and the celebrations after the whistle showed me that Ramsey has got a good spirit in the team
0


nightwish added 18:04 - Oct 5

I really enjoyed this match in fact totally loved it.What football should be about,entertainment remember that word.I really don't care how many goals the opposition score as long as QPR score more.One thing annoys me is when managers,coaches and supporters say at least we kept a clean sheet.Well you can stick your 1-0 where the sun don't shine give me a 4-3 thriller anyday.Got to be the best match I have seen in many a year.My match rating was a 10 by the way.Lets make dodgy defences compulsory in football and put smiles on football fans faces again
0


codge added 17:52 - Oct 17

Very disappointing second half, we looked like a different team on the pitch.Clasie has a long way to go but can't blame him for this team performance,Yoshida just can't be the answer to right back surely,and Davis looked like a dear in the headlights very poor, as you can tell very disappointing result.
1


dirk_doone added 19:14 - Oct 17

The other 10 players coped with one weak link, Kelvin Davis, until the 60th minute substitutions, which left us with 3 glaring weak links: Kelvin, Clasie and Yoshida. That was just too much for the rest of the team to cope with against a fired up Leicester midfield and attack, which smelled blood, when Cedric and Steven Davis went off. In the end, we did well to hang on for a point. To be fair, Jamie Vardy was very good and on current form can score against just about anyone.

I hope we don't have to resort to using Kelvin, Clasie and Yoshida against Liverpool.
2


billericaydicky added 21:40 - Oct 17

Poor defending again for their first goal - Konchesky is finished for me. Not sure about the penalty as I couldn't see it, but Fer gave the ball away. Substitutions were bizarre and I'm afraid I've lost faith in Ramsey now. Step up Mr Warnock or someone who can sort our defence out. One of the better Championship sides would put 4 or 5 past us, as Fulham did.
0


WestSussexSaint added 23:46 - Oct 17

Was this the same team that embarrassed Chelsea? The front 3 had none of the spark that turn Cahill & Terry inside out last time. You can argue that Kelvin is a weak link at this level but everyone knows his distribution is poor so why we kept playing it back to him is a mystery. Only Van Dyke can claim any credit from this game. The rest were below standard.
2


aceofthebase added 00:01 - Oct 18

Why isn't there a zero rating?
I did not see anything that Clasie did that deserved a point. Not a single pass tackle or interception.
I cannot remember seeing such a second half capitulation in sixty years of following Saints.
Dreadful performance and poor substitutions.
3


Consigliere added 09:49 - Oct 18

In coming to any sensible conclusions about what went wrong in this game you have to start of by appreciating and accepting that the opposition was really very good indeed. I groan as much as the next man when a Saints player gets it wrong or gives away a loose pass (and heaven knows that happened often enough in the second half) but most of these failures were not unforced errors. There is a good reason why Leicester are flying high in the league and their current form didn't happen by accident. Second, you have to accept that there were injuries and weaknesses in the squad. VW appeared to be carrying a hamstring injury for most of the match, Clasie is not up to match speed and Kelvin Davis - a great man and a loyal Saint - is past his best. Having said that however, I felt that the team lost its collective nerve after the first Leicester goal and started being dragged further and further back into defence, so that we were never able to clear our lines and put pressure on the other end of the field. The midfield almost ceased to exist, Pelle and Mane were no longer putting pressure on the opposition defence and the ball kept coming back to us too quickly. The team lost its shape. A vital lesson needs to be learned here, and learned quickly because there are better teams still to come!
3


winchesterbob added 09:50 - Oct 18

Vardy and Mahrez were excellent second half, sadly in the main, because after S Davis went off we lost control of midfield. This was exasperated by Kelvin kicking the ball straight down the throats of Leicester. Jordy Clasie must have something that big Ron admires, but I have to say that there was no evidence that he will cope with Premier league football on display yesterday afternoon.
3


themodfather added 12:31 - Oct 18

ramsey gets a mark of one.
0


winchesterbob added 13:20 - Oct 18

Vardy and Mahrez were excellent second half, sadly in the main, because after S Davis went off we lost control of midfield. This was exasperated by Kelvin kicking the ball straight down the throats of Leicester. Jordy Clasie must have something that big Ron admires, but I have to say that there was no evidence that he will cope with Premier league football on display yesterday afternoon.
2


sidsaint added 15:21 - Oct 18

Davis's poor performance put extra pressure on the defence which finally cracked in second half. Mane missed chance to put game to bed after he rounded goalkeeper but could not finish.
0


tsbains64 added 09:53 - Oct 19

its all about consolidation this year-if we focus on that then this match performance as accepatable but if want more then we need more
Listening to the fans sing was great until we went 1-2 down !
How fickle are the fans
Just a penalty separated the sides-dont think we deserved much more
Impressed with Lunogo late on and great to see Sandro power back Just needed a bit of luck
0


seagullhoop added 15:25 - Oct 19

Slightly extreme and contradictory ratings for a match decided by a dubious penalty
0


Allan60 added 12:14 - Oct 20

Well,that was a disappointing gift of 3 points to Stoke. Can't recall last time so many passes went astray, crosses from Jeff were catching practice for Jack Butland, Gomis seems to have lost all confidence, and I'm afraid that Mo Barrow looked totally out of his league. Penalty in the first 3 minutes gave Stoke the impetus to play their usual ugly, niggly football in the first half, without making any effort to increase their lead. The second half was even worse as Stoke players refused to come out of their own half, resulting in what must have been 90% possession for us. Just a shame that our players seemed to be suffering from Euro 2016 hangovers.
0


tsbains64 added 08:27 - Oct 21

Lucky to get a point ,could have been so much worse ......
Erratic display-cant understand why Tozer has been brought in his touch is poor but he does ask for the ball
Great support from the away fans-respect!
Referee -took his time to make decisons-think we were fortunate today
the anti Ramsay brigade is growing which does not help
We are headed a consolidation season-until the goalposts get moved again
0


billericaydicky added 08:59 - Oct 21

At last we found a Referee that is a homer!
0


Shunter added 09:31 - Oct 21

Ramsey will be the only person pleased with the result as we kept a clean sheet.
The performance, especially the passing, was terrible.
Performances gets worse and worse under Ramsey - this cannot go on.
0


Harbour added 09:55 - Oct 21

Clint made a big difference in organising the defence especially at set pieces. Got a bit lucky with the foul...other than that excellent for a 37 year old. First half we did well should have scored as had several good chances. Second half Sheff Wed were better but other than at the end of second half did not get any clear chances. taking off JET and no proper replacement just shows we really need to loan a striker...glad we got a clean sheet against a reasonable Sheff Wed side....expectations mid table finish
0


BlackCrowe added 13:21 - Oct 21

How do you score a keeper's performance that barely had a save to make and has kept a clean sheet?

Ref is my player of the match.
0


veng9 added 17:28 - Oct 24

Shelvey leaving too much space defensively. Cork should start instead of Shelvey next week as Arsenal would punish that space more effectively than Villa. Worth giving Eder a start over Gomis.
0


veng9 added 17:42 - Oct 24

Shelvey leaving too much space defensively. Cork should start instead of Shelvey next week as Arsenal would punish that space more effectively than Villa. Worth giving Eder a start over Gomis.
0


SterlingArcher added 09:37 - Oct 25

Most probably one of the worst opposing teams we have faced in years which is strange as I think Karl Robinson
Is a decent manager. They've got some decent players, but I think they froze in 'awe' of the opposition !
0


Shunter added 11:17 - Oct 25

Crazy day at Loftus Road, the last 20 minutes saved Ramsey after a poor and very boring first half.
Cries of "You dont know what your doing" when Luongo was taken off , QPR fans chanting Off Off Off
when Karl Henry was yellow carded, but the faithful were rewarded with 3 very good goals. JET was MOM but Tozser hit the pass of the season for the Phillips goal - even Junior did well when he came on - fully committed.

Grant Hall learning from Clints full commitment, another good game from the "oldie" with another clean sheet. Glad we got the win before the trip to Brentford - looking forward to Friday night - U Rrrrrrrssss !
0


WestSussexSaint added 22:19 - Oct 25

A draw was probably about fair with neither side doing enough to deserve the win. I think Saints will be happy overall but the Mane sending off was unnecessary.VVD was superb marshalling the defence. Great to see Gaston play and set up the equaliser. He only had a small opportunity but grabbed it with both hands.
3


darthvader added 09:14 - Oct 26

Nice air kick from pelle to bring him down to earth . I thought that Gaston did very well when he came on and maybe mane being sent off was a bit harsh .
Overall pleased with not losing but on another day with a bit more luck would have taken the points .
1


SaintBrock added 09:14 - Oct 26

Neither side looked good enough to win and the draw was more or less what most expected and for once Saints didn't throw it away through carelessness or lack of concentration. Looks likely these two sides are more or less at the same level as last season, although at the moment Saints have better organisation and more momentum.

Expect them to be close at season's end, maybe scrapping over 6th or 7th.

Right now it looks like Spurs will challenge the top 4 pecking order and it is hard to believe WHU or Leicester can keep it going through the winter with the inevitable disruptions though injuries and fatigue that all clubs experience.
0


TimSaint added 01:23 - Oct 29

Too msny changes and a weakened side, but still managed to get the job done.
I know we were somewhat limited in attack, but Pelle rarely got service in the first haf and we only really started playing one we were in front.
Yes Villa had more shots and corners, but most of their shots and headers were well wide, or of back pass strngth.
We shaded it and should have pushed on more once going in front, but we played much more openly, freely snd passed much more cohesively once Tadic and STEVEN Davis (not Kelvin) came on. 2 great goals but could and shouldnhave been more comfortable. The late pen was a tad harsg, but no worries as it was the last kick.

A few good performances (Vic VvD Stek and Rom), but too many not quite up to it especially JWP who had a poor night.
2


WestSussexSaint added 07:38 - Oct 29

Saints didn't get out of second gear but then didn't need to. Nice goal for Yoshida but he is still not a permanent solution at right back for me. Disappointing performance from Juanmi who looks like he needs much more of RKs toughening up training. Hutton had him on toast all evening except for one superb tackle but there was very little attacking evidence. Pelle worked his socks off all match and deserved his goal when it came. He was man of match for me but there wasn't much competition.
0


10i added 09:04 - Oct 29

Too many changes for me too, when stating we would want to win this competition. And that showed in our quite poor Performance.
Some of the Players coming in did okay. Ramirez set the Goal up that Yoshida did very well to finish, but Ramirez did not offer too much apart from that and Maya did get exposed in defense more than once as he simply is no FB. Targett had a good game for me apart from the situation when Stekelenburg had to save Bacuna's shot on the near post. Romeu did quite good and finally managed to not get booked. Caulker has done okay. Juanmi sadly offered nothing at all but just one great tackle. And JWP simply has been shocking...
Apart from the goal I personally have not been happy with Pelle trying to backheel and flick every ball which never worked - as if it was a game that didn't matter at all.
0


dirk_doone added 09:22 - Oct 29

That is the best match rating Kelvin Davis is ever going to get!
0


Consigliere added 09:25 - Oct 29

OH YE OF LITTLE FAITH! How often have I posted on this site that Yoshida is a much under-rated player! Even if you were to overlook the goal (of which more later) he had a standout game, strong in defence, pushing forward into the midfield and avoiding the trap of "fouling" the diving champion Jack Grealish when invited to do so. As to the goal, yes he really can strike home with his left foot from outside the box, and that followed some crisp interplay in the lead up. In an otherwise fairly dull game he was the standout player for me, so no more carping at his expense. And gentlemen, its not funny to sing "How shit must you be, Yoshida just scored" (it is really but we are going to pretend otherwise).
0


RogerToye added 14:41 - Oct 29

Credit to Koeman he gave non regulars a chance and they all did their bit but nothing really outstanding. I prefer Yoshida down the middle, not on the wing not pacy enough and crosses bar one where off great one two with Ramirez was right in line with the move and the goal..l practice makes perfect dont you just love a goal from the unexpected from the back.. Not forgetting Pelle's movement and goal (best player over the season) which was good throughout the game. VVD is my player for October who grows better each game and Toby is a far off dream.. Very much a tale of two halves and I do like the movement and Head of Rudy Gestede but villa have no real fire power and will be struggling like a block of cheese with the wrong wine. We had a few glimpses of Ramirez and what he can do but he still needs to up a level. Tadic and Davies came on and that level rose a good value night.. thanks Saints
0


Allan60 added 19:36 - Oct 31

My earlier premonition proved to be eerily true. Taken apart in the second half, by Arsenal, after a pretty even first 45 minutes. Gomis' lack of confidence clearly on show when he should have buried a couple of clear-cut chances. Allied to his inability to stay on side, I feel that his current form is having a detrimental effect on the whole team. Every time that he gets caught in an offside position not only does it disrupt the flow of the game, but it passes control of the ball back to the opposition. This in turn is permeating through to the defence which puts doubts as to whether our attack will ever score, and so puts more pressure on them. Have to say, though, that I thought that the mid-field of Ki, Shelvey, Sigurssen & Ayew played better than they have recently. It's just a good job that there are three or four teams at the bottom of the division who are giving us some breathing space, at the moment.
0


DPeps added 19:04 - Nov 1

Good in the first half. Poor in the second - I don't think we managed to string together more than 3 passes. Fair play to Bournemouth, they were decent in the second half but we let them back into it. Midfield was nonexistent and Wanyama was a red card waiting to happen. No pressing and Bournemouth walked through us time and again.

Pluses: Clasie improved again, VvD great again, and we won!
2


aceofthebase added 21:04 - Nov 1

Yep Clasie improved and now rates one or ttwo points for his first half display and a minus one point for his second half performance. He is not alone because in the second half most of the team were rubbish. Tadiic and Mane disappeared. Wanyama literally disappeared, We played without Fonte, No midfield players.

Good news was that we bossed the first half and scored two goals from open play. How come we were so poor in the second half, it really took the gloss off the victory. Well done Bournemouth you probably deserved a point.

A repeat of the Leicester game, just what are they drinking at half time and RK give them a firework up their backsides
2


Phil_S added 17:57 - Nov 7

You cannot have 66% possession in a match and not trouble the goalkeeper. We have too many people off form and we seem to be shoehorning certain players into the team just to give them game time. We need one of Cork or Britton in midfield at all times to create a better balance to the side and I am not sure that Ayew is a right winger. There is no point in blaming one individual on the pitch for the run of form that we are on but the sheer fact that we have failed to score in 6 of the last 9 games tells you much about where it is all going wrong.

If I look back to thoughts at the start of the season, the midfield would have been

1 of Cork or Britton
Ki
Shelvey or Sigurdsson

Now three months on it would be

1 of Cork or Britton
1 of Ki or Shelvey
1 of Sigurdsson or Ayew

Routledge/Barrow/Montero to provide the width (would have added Dyer to that if he was still here)

Gomis or Eder up front (or possibly Ayew I still think is worth a shot)
0


Allan60 added 23:22 - Nov 7

Confidence ebbing away from all the team, at the moment. No-one seems to be able to reproduce the form that they displayed at the start of the season. Very dissapointing result this afternoon.
At the beginning of his tenure as manager I commented on Monk's use of substitutes & he seems to be slipping back in to his old habits here. Why Britton should replace Sigursson I cannot really understand as Gylfi is always likely to score, whether from a free kick or not, whereas Leon is a holding midfield player who will never improve our attacking chances. Also, the limited time that he is giving Eder is never going to be long enough for him to get up to speed in a match. I think that it's about time that he is given a full run out, and Gomis dropped to the bech for a couple of games.
0


batmanhoop added 11:40 - Nov 8

the two players who have come under the most stick, Henry and Hoilett, were my star players, with Hoilett just shading it. Faurlin was excellent, particiarly in the first half. The ones I've marked 5, sadly played like they wanted to be elsewhere
0


A_Fans_Dad added 11:56 - Nov 8

How Routledge has ended up with such a low score I don't know.
I know he wasn't on very long, but he was one of the most dynamic and attacking players on the field.
He moved well and moved the ball well.
0


geraldo added 13:45 - Nov 11

What a shocker- the only bright point was the keeper!! Why are so many of our players one footed - a lot of opportunities missed in second half because none of our so called strikers can use their other foot.
0


codge added 17:23 - Nov 21

Back to our old ways again, no real effort to many passes going astray, very lackluster and disappointed to say the least. Could not pick any one player for Saints who was outstanding really, we had a great chance to move up the league but failed once more.
2


DPeps added 17:50 - Nov 21

We seem to play worst in games like this, against well-organised but relatively limited opposition. Of course Stoke are not just well-organised now and have some greatly talented players too, but they're not going to finish top 6. Without Mane playing (or playing well) we don't have much flair and become very predictable.
All in all, us and Stoke are evenly matched this season, which you might take as a positive or negative evaluation
2


Phil_S added 18:13 - Nov 21

Another inept performance where we almost (and probably did to a certain extent) get out of jail. When we went 2-0 down it looked for all the money like Bournemouth would threaten Chelsea's tally of last season but with two bits of good fortune we got ourselves back level but never really looked like scoring again during the game. Too many players looking like they are not up for the fight which is the bit that is more worrying and disappointing than anything. The passion and desire is just not there at the moment and with Liverpool, Leicester and Man City to come next then it could be a long winter ahead. Where was the performance we were promised?
0


Allan60 added 18:23 - Nov 21

A point hard earned against an honest,hard-working team that we should have been capable of dismantling. Ki & Shelvey lacked commitment, Williams looks totally knackered, & there does not appear to be any clear leadershipout on the field. Ayew fought alone, & at this rate I suspect that we will lose him sooner rather than later. Eder given a chance, but I suppose it's not really fair to judge him on this performance alone - certainly when he was swapped for Gomis, there was no change to our play. Unfortunately, today's display will not relieve any of the mounting pressure on Garry Monk.
0


dean7321 added 18:40 - Nov 21

V
0


dean7321 added 18:40 - Nov 21

V
0


aceofthebase added 20:25 - Nov 21

I'm beginning,no, I am, very concerned about our recent signings. Classie,Soares and Juanmi just do not seem to be upto the task of playing in the premiership. I question the wisdom of signing them. We are playing with too many weak links to dominate or take charge of a game.
Have we abandoned our home grown talent? We have had some good games but displays like this could be the end of our dreams and see us tumble down the league. Call me all sorts of names but that is the way I see it.
2


aceofthebase added 20:27 - Nov 21

I'm beginning,no, I am, very concerned about our recent signings. Classie,Soares and Juanmi just do not seem to be upto the task of playing in the premiership. I question the wisdom of signing them. We are playing with too many weak links to dominate or take charge of a game.
Have we abandoned our home grown talent? We have had some good games but displays like this could be the end of our dreams and see us tumble down the league. Call me all sorts of names but that is the way I see it.
1


welhamdowed added 20:43 - Nov 21

Yeah we weren't great and the ref might have given us more but to be honest I thought Stoke were very decent today and worthy of the three points.
1


darthvader added 20:50 - Nov 21

Why do we always get sh!t refs . ?? We played poorly by our standards but it seems we get shafted by the ref when we need a couple of decisions to actually go our way . When our players are constantly elbowed ,kicked with foul after foul and get phuck all then it's draining for the players and the fans .
That said Stoke done what they came to do .
International breaks do us no favours either
1


sidsaint added 21:34 - Nov 21

Poor performance especially in first half with numerous misplaced passes. Stoke got their goal and then lined up the buses making them difficult to break down and to be fair they created the better chances for another goal.
1


owderrammy added 11:46 - Nov 22

For me the pivotal point of this match was when Scott Carson saved a shot in the first half after being raided by 3 Cardiff men who were clear of our defence. For me a goal then would have caused us to chase Cardiff. That save changed the game into a routine win.
0


LesVivian added 12:13 - Nov 22

I would have thought, with Pelle up against formidable central defenders, we could have left him out, put on a good passer, e.g. JWP, and aim to play balls outside to our pacy players, Long and Mane to run at 'em, inside or outside. Shawcross and Wollsheid would have no conventional centre-forward to deal with, and as they don't have the pace to keep up with our fast men, would be liable to committing fouls in good areas for us. Pelle battled on well, and he should have had a penalty from an abject referee, but it was often 2 against 1. As for Tadic, when a battling attitude is required he is wanting, and he looks to complain about others on the team!
1


aceofthebase added 17:15 - Nov 22

Great to see the fans on here thinking that Clasie played better than Fonte, Bertrand and Tadic. I must visit specsavers
1


aceofthebase added 17:16 - Nov 22

Great to see the fans on here thinking that Clasie played better than Fonte, Bertrand and Tadic. I must visit specsavers
0


aceofthebase added 17:17 - Nov 22

Clasie soon to be man of the match and given the keys to Soton.
0


codge added 17:21 - Nov 28

Yoshida why why why enough said.
3


blackvincent added 17:46 - Nov 28

Good to see the Dale taking the game to the opposition, particularly in the second half. Played with energy and adventure and with some luck could have scored more. This against a team and manager who should be ashamed of themselves. Vale set up to spoil the game and cheat the referee, never have so many stout footballers been brought to the ground by seemingly innocuous challenges which conned the poor referee. Hooper a revelation, McDermott a constant threat from the moment he came on, Bennett getting back t his best which is great to see. Hendo running across the line nicely with Andrew a good foil today playing well. Camps more comfortable a little deeper and much to be optimistic about today. Well played Dale in awful conditions, some really nice stuff, thoroughly deserved the win.
0


aceofthebase added 20:40 - Nov 28

We sold Clyne and haven't replaced him with any of strength or quality. This will be a weak area for the rest of the season unless the January window yields a miracle player.
Thought Steven Caulker took his chance to shine very well.
After a poor start we played as well as Man city and maybe deserved a point. Strangely I don't think Pelle would have made much difference,
1


Harbour added 19:45 - Nov 29

so good to see a win forgotten what one was like...first half two toothless teams...Ale F apart not much quality on show. second half much better Charlie and chery upped the tempo 2nd half subs...so good to see Ale F spraying the ball all over the pitch...best player on the Pitch...quite funny hearing leeds fans giving their team grief....also enjoyed seeing NW getting animated with the players...a good afternoon harder tests to come
0


DPeps added 22:50 - Dec 2

Embarrassing. Defensively frail throughout.
At least we know why Koeman is scared to play Cedric in other games and why Caulker doesn't get a look in most weeks. I didn't think we'd miss Clyne but by god we do!
I can't be bothered to look into it (and it'd be too depressing anyway) but we seem to concede goals quickly - once we concede one, we concede another. Like I say, defensively frail. Got to sort it out quickly or we'll be hammered again and again.
2


IWOZTHERE added 00:11 - Dec 3

Come on DPeps, Is it surprising that a £5m player isn't as good as one who was actually worth 3 or 4 times as much? Also , can you really expect players roped in for the odd game, to slot seamlessly in to the system. Half of them don't know whether they'll be picked next week or where they'll be playing if they are picked. Sorry, early , angry response but RK, the honeymoon's over.
3


trampslykeus added 00:19 - Dec 3

Dreadful, dreadful! Where do we go from here! Caulker & Clasie have no idea how to play for Saints. They shouldn't play again for a long while. No energy or commitment tonight. Play like that consistently and we will be in relegation trouble, forget about Europe, Top 4 etc.
3


trampslykeus added 00:28 - Dec 3

Dreadful, dreadful! Where do we go from here! Caulker & Clasie have no idea how to play for Saints. They shouldn't play again for a long while. No energy or commitment tonight. Play like that consistently and we will be in relegation trouble, forget about Europe, Top 4 etc.
1


TimSaint added 01:33 - Dec 3

Our performance does not really warrant a comment, apart from the fact that we were well and truely shown how to press, hunt in packs, keep possession, find our team mates, pass quickly and accurately and how to be clinical with our finishing.

We now know why Caulker doesn't play much - in fairness, I think Ron was expecting him to be up against Benteke, not Sturridge, but either way, he was absolutely shocking !!

Liverpool had 7 shots on target and scored with 6 of them - kind of tells us how good our keeper was !!

Still big queues outside, so guessing more turnstile issues with print your own tickets. This meant that quite a few missed the Saints goal !!
1


WestSussexSaint added 07:10 - Dec 3

One word - Shambles! The only player to come out of that mess with any credit is Fonte to show why we miss his defensive organisation. The rest including the manager will be rightly hurting and the need to show a positive reaction against Villa on Sat.
2


Bettwsresident added 07:38 - Dec 3

Beaten by a clinical side on the up. Pool had 6 shots up till 89 mins, all went in. This is our weakness...we are the worst in the league at shots on target/goals.

Shattering defeat. Need to pick up quickly if we are to beat Villa on sat
2


Pecky3 added 08:58 - Dec 3

Embarrasing to concede six! Awful display. Caulker, Cedric and Clasie do not seem to be up to the Premier League. Need some new blood in January otherwise I can see Saints slipping down the table rapidly! Not sure whether to be gutted or angry but come on Koeman shake them up before Saturday please!!!
2


paulheale added 10:13 - Dec 3

great start then conference league defending,we need a right back and another creative midfielder also a good centre half
2


FU2 added 10:22 - Dec 3

How bad was Caulker - terrible thats how bad. Who coached him to back away from strikers and give them 6 yards of space when in the box? How slow is he to get across to players when he is the nearest defender - really slow. And for a big unit - and he is big strong boy - why cant he tackle with any meaning or aggression. He has no bite or fight in him at all.
OK i am on a rant now - lets keep going.
The Pelle gambit. OK so we hit Pelle with lots of balls and he is a master at heading on or chest down. When he heads on he needs one or two players near him to run off the header - say Mane and a creative midfielder its right - then Tadic and a creative midfielder if its left. Tad and Mane are too far away patrolling the wings.
Then Pelle chests down - and passes to who? He needs a creative midfielder 10 yards from him to either run at the defence or play a 1-2 or something. How many times did a Pelle win result in the ball being played to big Vic - loads thats how many - he should not be the first option - he should be the last option.

We lack a real creative tricky clever player to partner Pelle - or is that Juanami? Lets hope so. Its not really long - he is better working with Mane to provide a different type of attack, one based on break / pace.

Lets keep going - Claisie - i dont get it - i want my DMs to be 6 foot and fast, not as tall as Ronnie Corbet and slow - be small and fast OK but not small and slow. I have seen nothing from Claisie that Harrison Reed does not have - including height.

Finally - game play. There was a moment last night - we were attacking the Northam End - and 3 or 4 balls in came back, we had every player over the half way line - loading pressure on Liverpool - we were 1-2 down - the box had 4 Saints players in it - the ball was cleared to our right back - did he play the ball back in - did he f*** - he played it back to the keeper !! Why - why - why would you do that when the whole team is waiting for a ball in again - who is coaching these players to make decisions like that - play it back to your keeper instead of into the danger zone.

And the ref was bad.

I am dribbling now i better stop - FU2




3


FU2 added 10:24 - Dec 3

How bad was Caulker - terrible thats how bad. Who coached him to back away from strikers and give them 6 yards of space when in the box? How slow is he to get across to players when he is the nearest defender - really slow. And for a big unit - and he is big strong boy - why cant he tackle with any meaning or aggression. He has no bite or fight in him at all.
OK i am on a rant now - lets keep going.
The Pelle gambit. OK so we hit Pelle with lots of balls and he is a master at heading on or chest down. When he heads on he needs one or two players near him to run off the header - say Mane and a creative midfielder its right - then Tadic and a creative midfielder if its left. Tad and Mane are too far away patrolling the wings.
Then Pelle chests down - and passes to who? He needs a creative midfielder 10 yards from him to either run at the defence or play a 1-2 or something. How many times did a Pelle win result in the ball being played to big Vic - loads thats how many - he should not be the first option - he should be the last option.

We lack a real creative tricky clever player to partner Pelle - or is that Juanami? Lets hope so. Its not really long - he is better working with Mane to provide a different type of attack, one based on break / pace.

Lets keep going - Claisie - i dont get it - i want my DMs to be 6 foot and fast, not as tall as Ronnie Corbet and slow - be small and fast OK but not small and slow. I have seen nothing from Claisie that Harrison Reed does not have - including height.

Finally - game play. There was a moment last night - we were attacking the Northam End - and 3 or 4 balls in came back, we had every player over the half way line - loading pressure on Liverpool - we were 1-2 down - the box had 4 Saints players in it - the ball was cleared to our right back - did he play the ball back in - did he f*** - he played it back to the keeper !! Why - why - why would you do that when the whole team is waiting for a ball in again - who is coaching these players to make decisions like that - play it back to your keeper instead of into the danger zone.

And the ref was bad.

I am dribbling now i better stop - FU2




0


FU2 added 10:26 - Dec 3

How bad was Caulker - terrible thats how bad. Who coached him to back away from strikers and give them 6 yards of space when in the box? How slow is he to get across to players when he is the nearest defender - really slow. And for a big unit - and he is big strong boy - why cant he tackle with any meaning or aggression. He has no bite or fight in him at all.
OK i am on a rant now - lets keep going.
The Pelle gambit. OK so we hit Pelle with lots of balls and he is a master at heading on or chest down. When he heads on he needs one or two players near him to run off the header - say Mane and a creative midfielder its right - then Tadic and a creative midfielder if its left. Tad and Mane are too far away patrolling the wings.

Then Pelle chests down - and passes to who? He needs a creative midfielder 10 yards from him to either run at the defence or play a 1-2 or something. How many times did a Pelle win result in the ball being played to big Vic - loads thats how many - the ball to Vic should not be the first option - it should be the last option.

We lack a real creative tricky clever player to partner Pelle - or is that Juanami? Lets hope so. Its not really long - he is better working with Mane to provide a different type of attack, one based on break / pace.

Lets keep going - Claisie - i dont get it - i want my DMs to be 6 foot and fast, not as tall as Ronnie Corbet and slow - be small and fast OK but not small and slow. I have seen nothing from Claisie that Harrison Reed does not have - including height.

Finally - game play. There was a moment last night - we were attacking the Northam End - and 3 or 4 balls in came back, we had every player over the half way line - loading pressure on Liverpool - we were 1-2 down - the box had 4 Saints players in it - the ball was cleared to our right back - did he play the ball back in - did he f*** - he played it back to the keeper !! Why - why - why would you do that when the whole team is waiting for a ball in again - who is coaching these players to make decisions like that - play it back to your keeper instead of into the danger zone.

And the ref was bad.

I am dribbling now i better stop - FU2




0


LesVivian added 12:04 - Dec 3

The facts are these: we have not replaced Clyne or Schneiderlin, and there is no effective back-up in central defence when either Fonte or Van Dyke is out. Add to this that there are, in my opinion, second-rate foreign players such as Martina, Romeu and Juanmi getting on the bench at the expense of our younger players. Surely Ryan Seager deserves a chance, along with Reed, and what happened to Hesketh? One game last year, so good enough then, taken out by a cynical Leicester City player on his debut never to appear again! We have international (at their level) players out on loan - Stephens and Gallager for example, surely they will put in better shifts than fly-by-night outsiders, who may have potential, but no hunger!
4


halftimeorange added 12:33 - Dec 3

In hindsight this has been coming. We don't seem to be set up right. We aren't pressing the opposition consistently. We are regularly bullied. We have a GK who commands his box, can kick with both feet but rarely makes a save. Our marque creative signing looks out of his depth. Never mind, if we're 2-0 up at halftime on Saturday this will all be forgotten. However, if we're 2-0 down.......
1


Bettwsresident added 13:49 - Dec 3

It was a horrible match to watch, but when we won away at Sunderland a few short weeks ago we were flying, 1 loss in 12 and that was being robbed by Man U. The last three games have been the counter balance and prove we are only a upper mid table side. I am looking forward to the Villa game, we will bounce back...but it is going to be a rollercoaster season...

Agree with LesVivian...where are Seagar, Hesketh and Reed. Reed did nothing wrong when he played last season and unlike Clasie, he tackles like Paul Scoles.
1


aceofthebase added 14:09 - Dec 3

So my opinion of Clasie has not been incorrect, he is not upto premiership standard, not a toughie, just too small. We played with ten men and then Jwp came on and we continued with ten men. Caulker getting the blame for not being upto pace, hardly his fault unless he really has been a bad boy! Cedric and Juanmi are both lightweights.We desperately need a right back of strength and quality. Selling Chambers and Clyne a monumental error and is costing us games.
I'm not incorrect either in saying that we are heading for the relegation zone. I too would prefer to see some of our homegrown players in the team but at this stage I wouldnot expect much improvement in results. Reed and Hesketh, have they both been poor in training? Have they been poorer thab Clasie?

Come on Saints your supporters deserve and expect better.
1


A_Fans_Dad added 17:06 - Dec 5

Out Played, Out Fouled and Out of Luck.
0


Allan60 added 19:24 - Dec 5

Another nail in Monk's coffin, as yet again Swansea failed to show the necessary skills & commitment. Gomis a real waste of space, and without his goals it is very difficult, at the moment, to see where any threat might come from. Routledge is clearly past his sell-by date and I wonder whether the time is ripe to throw a couple of the youngsters in to the mix? It is apparent that something is clearly amiss behind the scenes, & I suspect that Monk may have a maximum of three more games to improve matters or see the door. Certainly without a massive change it is becoming more difficult to see how the Board can let him have any say in the January transfer window.
0


sidsaint added 22:27 - Dec 5

Atrocious finishing, many chances created but squandered with Guzan not called on to make that many saves. Also disappointing performances from Tadic and Wanyama . Substitutes made an impact but were very late in being introduced to the action. Villa were very poor and should have been despatched after 20 minutes.
2


Bettwsresident added 09:35 - Dec 6

We played some great football (Tadic excluded), against poor opposition, but watching effort after shot sail over the crossbar in the first 25mins started a growing feeling that it wasn't to be our day. The one touch move (with a superb pass by Big Vic) that led to Pelle blazing over was exceptional football that deserved better.

I was right behind Villa's corner, and shouted "what a shite corner!", just before 3 saints players missed it and Lescott bundled it in! At that point I was convinced it was Swansea last year all over again. That Romeu repeated Lescott's trick was very welcome.

I thought the subs played well especially Junami, Pelle tried hard but had no service. VVD/Bertrand were joint MOM..
1


IWOZTHERE added 17:33 - Dec 12

In isolation, it was a decent battling performance with a star performance from Gazzaniga followed closely by Romeu. As we stand though, it was a worrying extension of our bad run when we've got difficult games coming up.
4


codge added 17:55 - Dec 12

From the moment l saw the team's l thought we were just playing for a draw. We looked so disjointed and out of sync, l fear if we don't get a result soon it will be hard to recover.We are still playing Yoshida and never it never pays of.
2


bigrob68 added 18:20 - Dec 12

how on earth has Ryan ended up with 5.1 it should be zero, never won a single tackle and only put one cross in
0


aceofthebase added 18:32 - Dec 12

I'm going to say this before Nick.
If we had scored two goals thwn we would have been above Palace and challenging for a European place.
Serious report to follow!
3


IWOZTHERE added 21:12 - Dec 12

Come on Nick, can't wait!
1


corkcitysaint added 21:50 - Dec 12

Another poor performance I'm afraid to say. Created nothing of note. Where has our pass / move / overlap play gone? Some times we play such beautiful, silky football. Other times, we can't put 2 passes together

Had the keeper not pulled off a great save from Davis, who knows what might have happened. It seems our form dips when we get to the Christmas period..

I have to give credit to Gazzaniga though. He pulled off some get saves. He's never filled me with confidence with his previous games but today I thought he showed great promise. More of the same please.








3


PezzaSaint added 08:33 - Dec 13

Tend to agree with CorkCitySaint. Formation looked as though we were coming for a draw/1-0 victory. Always thought that if Palace scored first it would be very difficult to get back in to it as I couldn't see where goals were going to come from. Palace coped much better than we did with the strong wind and I agree that the wind suited their style of play more than ours. With a 5 across midfield set up you really need someone to be able to break the line and get beyond the forwards. Steven Davis did that once with his great header, but other than that........? Bertrand looks overweight and had an extremely poor game, Zaha bullied him most of the time. Pluses - Gazza was fantastic, Romeu did OK.
2


SaintBrock added 10:10 - Dec 13

So, we can't stop letting in goals and we can't score? Great combination!

With every prospect of losing the next four games there is a bit more to this than Ron saying:-

- we were the better team;
- we didn't deserve to loose;
- if we keep playing like this the win will come;
- take the positives out of this;......

It is simply unbelievable that we could end up in the relegation dogfight with the likes of Sunderland, Newcastle, Villa & Bournemouth because let's face it those teams are woeful this season playing without skill or shape - it is simply unbelievable isn't it? Please tell me so..
1


aceofthebase added 10:11 - Dec 13

Overall not a bad performance apart from the goal. Romeu ambled back, Cedric likewise and out of position.
Romeu had a mixed fortune game, he got involved and put in some good passes but also gave the ball away. I question his fitness looked exhausted second half.

Cedric not much of an improvement as a defender.

Pelle no improvement when he appeared

What fantastic goalkeepers today, both made tremendous saves.
0


Harbour added 18:37 - Dec 13

hard game...we started well and if Charlie played first 30 mins instead of last 30 we might have pinched it....thought sandro ale and henry did well first half...second half burnley bossed it....Barton shuld have been booked first half as he was regularly when he had a rs shirt on....credit the clap at the end.....a well earned point..
0


tsbains64 added 10:05 - Dec 16

Game if the season Could have sunk with out trrace but the fightback and the style of play gave me plenty of optimism for the future Great commitment from the players Outstanding performances from Faurlin and Hall
0


SuffolkHoop added 10:32 - Dec 16

QPR so much improved under JFH. The effort and running was great to watch. Brighton are a dirty side who were lucky to escape with a point.
0


Harbour added 20:13 - Dec 17

cracking game so heartening to see whole team putting a shift in...special mention junior ale and Charlie...JFH has got them organised and chasing down for whole 90 mins..plus 7 et...bit unlucky to concede both goals..foul on sandro for first and deflection for second....Great to see Ale back and MOM for me what a player and servant to the club...long may he continuing playing injury free....A fantastic atmosphere at LR...reminded me of Liverpool game when we won after being 2 down..bit unlucky not to repeat by hitting the post at end
0


codge added 17:30 - Dec 19

I am getting lost for words, were do you start, as usual start out well then costly mistakes again its getting to be the only consistent thing we have going for us right now. I really thought we were going to sort things out for this game but I am now worried that we have a real lack of confidence running throughout the players.
I just hope we dont get the same excuses from RK again something is not working to state the obvious.
What has happened to Saints these last few games is mind blowing nothing seems to work, I am getting a little worried now, we have to beat the Gunners or we could be in big trouble COYR.
2


LesVivian added 18:54 - Dec 19

Looked poor today after a good 20 minutes at the start. We are going to be in a relegation dog-fight if this carries on, and, apart from VD and VW we don't have any dogs! Lightweight in the midfield with Clasie not ready, Davis out of position on the wing, and JWP unable to stamp his authority. Dembele, today, was head and shoulders above anyone on the pitch, If VW is going to Spurs, get Dembele in exchange! As I've said before, we have not replaced NC, MS, and AL - indeed even SRL might be able to do a job for us; Pelle flogs his guts out, but he does not always make the right decisions when in possession. Still, keep going is the only option, and those without the stomach to fight, such as Tadic, should step up to the mark!
2


halftimeorange added 19:47 - Dec 19

There doesn't seem to be a team pattern. Quite often today we were all on the left or all on the right. Spurs players had acres of space. The two goals were what you might see in a park game. Can't blame Gazzaniga. Clasie took most of the stick from the blockheads behind me and some of their criticism was, unfortunately, justified. Anybody who doesn't see that we simply can't put it together at the moment is deluded. Koeman is paid to produce results and his latest words - preparing us for defeat in this game - and then openly criticising the players - suggests he doesn't know what to do to get us out of this slump. If not, the board needs to put money up for some strong, proven defenders and a goalscorer, either in midfield or up front. We surely need one and soon! A word for Cedric. Worked tirelessly and was our main source of danger to Spurs with his crosses.
1


Clay_Burton added 01:13 - Dec 20

Poor first half, with very little about us. Second half was an improvement and looked comfortable after we scored. Then they did and we looked a shambles again. I don't recall us having an attempt on goal after they equalised.

Standard R's away performance.
0


Consigliere added 09:34 - Dec 20

STANDING BACK for a moment from our natural disappointment at this match I think we should get some perspective. This wasn't actually a terrible performance from the team. For the first 40 minutes we were actually doing OK and came pretty close to scoring a couple of times. But then came our statutory five minutes of madness and that was all Spurs needed. Two breakaway goals from strikers who are not afraid to have a go at goal and its game over! The second half was more of the same really - Saints doing pretty well for most of the period and Spurs frankly not looking like scoring again (save for an entertaining piece of stir-crazy goalkeeper antics from young Gazza in the last minute) but apart from the JWP effort, neither did we. The problem (and I'm sorry to bang on about this once again) is that we spend too much time running around in circles in midfield rather than head quickly up the other end and shoot on target. It feels like taking a load of puppies for a walk along the beach - any direction apart from the one you want to go in. No-one wants to see the ball being hoiked up to Pele every time as that method means that it only comes back to us too soon, but we do want to see players running to the byline and putting in decent crosses, or driving down the middle with purpose. In a tight league we really are in danger of being sucked in to a relegation battle as others on this site have rightly said. The omens for Boxing Day aren't good. Come on Ron, surprise me!
3


LesVivian added 10:08 - Dec 20

Halftime orange - good points except one - did you see Cedric stand still so that Alli could control the ball and score? Watch MOTD! Otherwise he looked good going forward, but he is no NC!
0


corkcitysaint added 10:26 - Dec 20

Agree with Codge. Confidence is rock bottom at the moment. We started really well and had a right go. But again, we just fell right off. Spurs were just better than us from 20 mins on. Some horrendous defending and again conceding 2 quick goals just really killed us.

What disappoints me most is that when we go behind, we create nothing in attic to get back in the game really. Why can't we fight back like Leicester and Bournemouth did (ok, b'mouth didn't score but they bullied us 2nd half). we just seem to pass the ball and get nowhere fast.

Had Mane scored in our good spell who knows what might have happened but it's hard to see where a win is coming from. sat season whilst we struggled for a period to score, at least we were tight defensively. Now, we are struggling to score but are leaking goals, stupid goals.

C'mon Saints, 3 points for Xmas please!!
1


Zambucco added 11:25 - Dec 20

Team playing well, but no spirit, we have no warriors! As a nation Britain is famed for it's warriors, more British players Ron, use the academy boys, they may not be the best, but they will battle for club and country. JWP needs to get tough too, very lightweight.

I honestly believe that is what has happened in the squad, over the last two seasons we have shipped too many British players and the dressing room must seem like a very polite UN conference, even Jose seems to have lost his fighting spirit.

As a footnote it seems I yet again watched a different game, for me Clasie had his best game and showed his potential. My favourite VW misses Morgan so much, he can't do it by himself, Dembale bossed him all game.

Overall we were bad, the first and second ball was atrocious all game, we're giving the ball away far too easily. Yet we did start off fighting fire with fire.

Does anyone else want to slap Pelle's quiff every time he runs to the ref and complains in the very dramatic Italian style, as for Tadic, grow some balls!
-1


francisbowles added 13:09 - Dec 20

Bristol shaded first half, we shaded second. Missed the three injured players. Green early mistake with ball control but afterwards very good. Hoilet has come into form, very unlucky not to win the game for us with the shot that hit the bar at 1-0. Only defeat in seven was in the last minute to the league leaders away, so a work in progress but definitely more solid and moving in the right direction.
0


IWOZTHERE added 13:57 - Dec 20

RK infers he'll make changes but hasn't the quality to choose from, certainly not front of midfield where I think the problem lies. Pitching youngsters into the current mess would be a bit unfair on them and smacks of desperation. FFS open that window!
1


WestonsuperR added 16:30 - Dec 20

We were dreadful in the first half, slightly better in second but I thought it looked like 2 poor teams struggling in difficult conditions. Draw probably a fair result but will need to play far better than this if we are to reach the Play-offs.
0


qprninja added 13:03 - Dec 21

Polter wasted his rare opportunity to start, didn't offer much at all up front, but then again the crossing was almost non-existent or very poor when we did have the chance to swing one in. I would have liked to have seen JET start against his old club, they were singing his name before kick off, obviously very highly though of down there. Faurlin had one of those matches where he couldn't keep the ball on the pitch.
The highlight of the second half was two older gents dressed as Santas in the Bristol City end to our left having a row with a chap in front of them, ended up with all 3 getting escorted out, the spirit of Christmas alive and well, beautiful.
0


SaintBrock added 16:14 - Dec 21

Last week I suggested Koeman had 4 matches to turn things around as all four looked to be likely defeats. Surely after what happened to Mourinho he'll be out on his ear if he has a run of 9 games with only one draw?

Cortese would already have sacked him one suspects so does Les have the balls too take tough decisions? I think he might, Ron's confident posture has all but evaporated so words have obviously been exchanged and of course this transfers to the players if he shows that he doesn't have much confidence in them.

Having watched the game and the style of Pochettino's Spurs (akin to saints last year), one is bound to ask if last season was a success only because of a Pochettino coaching legacy effect that has now worn off so we're back basically to what Ron and his gang have been able to do which on current evidence is not very much. I'll wager there are quite a few fans asking the same question as Spurs looked miles better than us without any stand out players.

0


Dewi1jack added 20:21 - Dec 26

Pretty grim to watch at times. Nice to see us playing more as a team than as individuals as well as showing plenty of fight (in more ways than one!!!)
Linesman over at the East was more suited to running the line at Subbuteo matches. East was as much use as a return ticket on the Titanic.

Never mind. We got the 3 points.
Hopefully we can now restart our season and pull away from the relegation zone.
Our players are good enough as individuals to keep us up and providing we keep playing as a team, like we have for the last 3 games, we will.
0


DPeps added 22:31 - Dec 26

Yes yes yes.
Great performances out there tonight. Special mentions for Clasie and Martina, who have got some stick on this site (including from me).
We're a real confidence team and hopefully tonight was a turning point.
Anybody want to sell VW now?
2


dirk_doone added 23:06 - Dec 26

Wanyama and Fonte, were immense tonight. They pulled the rest of the team up to their standards. That was a superb performance from our 2 team leaders. 10/10, for them both, not only for their own perfect displays, but for the influence they had on the whole team.
1


1970 added 00:16 - Dec 27

Martina's goal was definitely insane, Arsenal were very poor ,as was the ref and linesman I thought Arsenal had brought the officials with them, in the end you look at the starting line up and we weren't as fragile as you would think, bringing Romeu on was very good and I'm not surprised Wanyama came out off his shell for this one, it's also priceless seeing the faces of all those player's that thought they were too good for the mighty Saints ha ha , all in all it was Martina's day and I suppose Shane Long but a good team performance that worked very hard for each other that was what won us the game coyr
1


IWOZTHERE added 01:41 - Dec 27

Unexpected, Immense, as was Wanyama , just enjoy it! Too good a night to debate about Wanyama.......but
DPeps, the jury's still out on his motives and attitude.
1


corkcitysaint added 09:07 - Dec 27

Cuco Martina, stand up and take a bow.. What a stunner of a goal !! A special mention also to Shane Long. His pace caused Arsenal problems all night.

Great overall performance and a result that I did not see coming Everybody worked as if they really wanted a result. Too many of our last performances have been pedestrian like without rolling up our sleeves and getting stuck in when things ere going against us. A lot of heart shown last night which was very encouraging. I hope now we can keep the momentum going and climb the table again.

Tactically, we got it spot on as we did when we beat Man U away last season. Were Ozil and Giroud actually playing last night?? ? Well done Ron, whatever he said during the week worked a treat.

On a side note, was watching the game on BT Sport. Robbie Savage and Ian Wright… An alien with no concept of football would talk more sense then those two. At least Hoddle has some tactical acumen.

3 festive points in the bag, excellent.
1


TimSaint added 09:58 - Dec 27

Wow - what a difference from the previous 5 games !!

Getting the first goal and what a goal, helped install confidence and we were much stronger on and off the ball for once.

Long did excellently and we actually played to our strengths for once - even if arse were expecting to play against Pelle. Long should have had 3 or 4, but will settle for his brace !!

Fonte and VvD were awesome and put in the performances they owed us after recent showings. Good goals from each too - VvD was not one of those offside !! Oh well. Giroud was non existent in the 2nd half, as were Walcott and Campbell, so defence was good and the few mistakes we did make didn't get punnished for once.

Big Vic was so much better and moving the ball quicker really helped him, as it did with Davis and Clasie. Only JWP was poor, lightweight, didn't track back and can't shoot for toffee.

Koeman got his tactics right and changed players at good times, unlike Wenger who could only moan at the first goal being offside (Davis headed it back and could be marginally off, but hey, we were owed an offside decision), the second being a foul (yes Long clipped legs with Koscielny but so what, he had battered Long all night) and the third goal for not being a corner (watched it on MOTD when I got back and it touched Koscielny).

Arse faded badly and our goals really sucked the confidence out of them. My Arsenal mate in the away end was gutted and couldn't believe that they could go top with a win, but put in such a poor display. What other motivation did they need ?

Well done boys - on to West Ham tomorrow and hopefully another 3 points !!
1


SaintBrock added 10:33 - Dec 27

A battling and functional performance where everyone pulled together and fought determinedly. No co-incidence that we had a right back who could defend and a fast running highly mobile cents forward rather than a static target lump. What a revelation that is bound to question Foeman's team selection in recent weeks. Let's hope he'll stick with stick with this line-up and not revert to aimless lobbing of long balls up to Pelle which is so easy to defend against. Shane Long was outstanding all evening and gave us a glimpse of what Jay Rodrigues could have given us if not for his wretched injuries. Long should now be automatic first choice at No 9 for a few weeks. Classie, Martina and Romeu excelled and should be first picks on this showing. Sadly JWP looks increasingly out of his depth at this level, the game mostly passing him by.
1


winchesterbob added 11:36 - Dec 27

I saw the team sheet and to be honest, I thought Ro Ko was really struggling for answers after the recent run of form. But hey WTF it just shows what being a Saints supporter is all about. When your expectation is high, you get kicked in the nuts. When the expectation is low the opposition get kicked in the nuts.

From the stunning goal from Cuco Martin, the whole team and the crowed got a palpable lift in confidence. Wanyama was back to his old self, harrying and bulling the midfield. The back four worked as a unit, JWP and Davis ran after everything and Mane and Long could have had a few more between them.

Not even a very poor Referee could disappoint the rampant Saints
1


Big_T added 13:00 - Dec 27

Great night, great EFFORT played for 90+min sure makes a difference. But yes I will say it, VW sell him, one swallow does not make a summer make, that is the level he should play at EVERY game, that is only two games out of twenty he has played at that level not enough. Classie is already miles ahead in terms of movement, passing, tackling and vision, LONG may it continue. Very happy today.
0


RogerToye added 20:17 - Dec 27

best performance for a long time against a top four team and potential champions we can finish top six playing like that
0


uaesaint added 19:40 - Dec 28

Why the f.uck can't we play two halls of a game the same ... Pressed and closed down first half second half gave to much time on ball to west ham and no closing down crap need to carry same commitment as per arsenal game over 90 mins .... Strange vw gos back to same play as had been last 6/7 game apart from arsenal game sell him now or drop him
4


codge added 19:59 - Dec 28

Another game we let get away, we can't seem to stand prosperity it seems. I think we made substitutes a little early, but we should of taken our chances in the first half and would have won going away. We seem to have a problem with being consistent, this year for sure. We're we hung over from the Arsenal game maybe
but these guy's get big money to do a job and sometimes working hard for half a shift wouldn't make it in the real world.Still onward and upward I hope, Coyr.
3


DPeps added 20:03 - Dec 28

There aren't enough cliches to sum this one up.
Game of two halves, end to end stuff, on paper we should've won, one step forward and two steps back.

Most fitting cliche however is: if you don't take your chances you'll be punished.
3


darthvader added 20:10 - Dec 28

Straight back to the snatching defeat from the jaws of victory again .
I cannot understand how this game was lost we started how we played against Arsenal ..couldn't finish them of in the first half .then took off our creativeness with Tadic and mane and threw it away .
I was looking forward to the trip to narwich but now ...not so sure . But hopefully learn to finish them off early , or late or even in the middle .. I don't care just finish them off !
4


corkcitysaint added 20:15 - Dec 28

Same old story. You just knew what was going to happen in the second half and it followed the script. Total domination 1st half, then second half a different team comes out. Yes, West Ham, made a couple of changes you'd expect that. We badly needed to score a 2nd in the 1st half when we were so on top and we had a couple of great chances. We have to be more clinical.

Had we been able to get Yoshida on before they scored, would it have made a difference.? As it was, what a flukey, ricochet goal! 4 Saints players around the ball and we still make a hash of it.

It's so frustrating to see us play so well and then shoot ourselves in the foot on a regular basis. I'm rapidly running out of hair to pull out….!

C'mon lads, sort yourselves out and kill off a game !
2


uaesaint added 20:42 - Dec 28

Top team in prem to lose from a wining start play two half not one
0


harrydunn999 added 22:51 - Dec 28

Whoever gave Ramirez more then a one needs shake their head, didn't deserve 1 let alone two- the worst sub appearance I've ever seen !!
2


Alehouse added 08:37 - Dec 29

Two mistakes cancelled out all the good work in the first half. Poor header by Martinez to set up first WH goal, no header by Yoshida for the second.
1


Alehouse added 08:39 - Dec 29

Martina that is.....
0


SaintBrock added 09:49 - Dec 29

uaesaint. This site is a safe haven from foul language and expletives so let's keep it that way. Sure, we lost a game that we should have won but surely there are other adjectives that you know that can express your feelings as well as using gutter speak!
4


SaintBrock added 09:54 - Dec 29

So what was the captain doing in the second half when we fell apart under pressure. We keep hearing about a good organisation in our defence but there wasn't much sign of it today, every time they attacked we pressed the panic mode and chased around like headless chicken. First rule of combat is stand to your position. Jose needs to exert some authority over his colleagues when the going gets tough. This defeat is down to very poor leadership on the pitch and mass panic.
0


Alehouse added 09:57 - Dec 29

Two mistakes cancelled out all the good work in the first half. Poor header by Martinez to set up first WH goal, no header by Yoshida for the second.
0


Alehouse added 09:58 - Dec 29

Two mistakes cancelled out all the good work in the first half. Poor header by Martinez to set up first WH goal, no header by Yoshida for the second.
0


qprbenjamin163 added 13:47 - Dec 29

QPR 1 HUDDERSFIELD 1
Well what a difference three bloody games makes! I hereby demote us from playoff definites and automatic promotion real possibilities to mid table number maker uppers, fodder for those aiming for the heady heights and those in desperate need of points. And for the rest, like Huddersfield, we represent a quiet day at the office.

This was one of those going through the motions exercises that took me back to days gone by. No real ambition, no real bite, no real Charlie Austin. And of course, that’s the main reason for this really disappointing blip. Charlie tweaked a hamstring before the Bristol City away game.

I didn’t travel to either Bristol City (1-1) or Ipswich (2-1) so rely on faithful reports from friends and Loft For Words.

It seems like we could have won both. Hoilet’s continued resurgence bagged him a goal at Ashton Gate and although City pressed hard afterwards it was felt we could and should have held out.

At Portman Road, the good form continued but we somehow managed to turn a 1-0 lead after 70 mins into a 2-1 defeat with the last kick of the game. OK, so the trend was still upwards performance-wise even if the results weren’t coming.

Unfortunately, the game against Huddersfield yesterday represented a real step backwards.

Consider the team. Philips up front with Fer in behind. Well we’re all pretty sure by now that one doesn’t work. Swap Faurlin for Toszer and things unravel a little more. Onuoha continuing to deputise at right back for Perch brings Clint Hill back into the fold and suddenly the spine just feels a little hunched.

To cover my arse, I did say that if we could stay relatively injury free, this would be the key to real points progress. That hasn’t happened and look how we’ve tumbled. three points from 12 when I would have expected seven or eight and secretly hoped for 10.

But it was the manner of this bore draw yesterday that was a worry. It was tepid stuff. Not exactly down to a lack of application. More a lack of ideas and confidence and good old fashioned chutzpah.

Our reliance on Faurlin is clear. Without him we were left with a competent but ultimately lacklustre Toszer. He’s OK. Mid table championship OK. Maybe he can do a job of keeping us up next year. Faurlin just makes things tick a lot better, a lot smoother. He gets things going much quicker when we haven’t got the ball and when we have. Faurlin and Sandro look awesome. Toszer and Sandro look bang average.

Philips up front is just really shameful. As a club, how we managed to get ourselves into a position where we didn’t have any adequate cover whatsoever should Charlie get sold or get injured is an embarrassment. A shocking state of affairs and one that Sir Les - a man close to losing his knighthood Jimmy Saville style - and the rest of the board need to take complete responsibility for. It’s nothing short of a joke. Philips is a good Championship winger. He gets his head down and runs and occasionally if the ball bobbles just right, he will score a decent goal. He is not and will never be a centre forward. He doesn’t have that kind of movement of that kind of eye for space or the ball. His miss in the second half when the ball was handed on a plate 6 yards out, my grandmother could have scored it had anyone placed her ashes somewhere close by for the ball to bounce off the urn. Philips hesitated, panicked and banged it straight into the goalkeeper.

Not that this would have given us a lead we thoroughly deserved. We wouldn't have. but Polter did give us the lead anyway. He spun and banged the ball in from close range after a bit of a tangle. That was late on and I guess everyone thought like I did, that we had completely nicked that one. But Huddersfield came to life finally, kickstarted by the injustice of it all. A free kick given away needlessly by toszer 25 yards out was very neatly despatched beyond the flailing dive of Green. He didn’t have much to do all game. Except stop that. Time for Smithies to get a run? I wouldn’t mind seeing him.

Other lowlights? The abuse from the same morons as Fer came off. Granted Fer isn’t firing on all cylinders. But he still represents the closest thing we have to a top class international player. He thrives on confidence and he’s lacking some right now. So what do the morons do? Let out all the frustrations of their shitty week on him. It used to be Henry. Then Ramsey. now it’s Fer. Who next for these idiots? They embarrass the rest of us greatly.

I wasn’t at all sure what position Henry was playing. He didn’t have a bad game in right midfield but was less successful playing in the hole behind Philips (!). Sandro gave his all but Toszer’s lack of bite didn’t help his cause. Hall still looks classy and Hill provided his usual sterling effort, although it’s noticeable he now gives attackers about five yards grace if they are running at him.

Chery made a late appearance and I wondered why he wasn’t getting a start, maybe at the expense of Henry? Luongo hasn’t done much wrong this season but hasn’t got a look in either. JET came on late too but couldn’t influence the game. Something tells me one of these three should have been starting. I don’t know why that’s not happening. And that’s about it really. Nothing much to report except a ball bobbling around aimlessly between 22 pins.

I turned to my boy at the end of this and warned him that from next season, this could well be what football is like for us for the next 15 years or so. He didn’t look delighted by the prospect. But that’s what’s in store. If we don’t get promotion, we lose Charlie and we lose the finances to get another Charlie (half a Charlie would do just fine). And when we lose that we lose all hope of winning matches. These last three games have proved that beyond all doubt.

So the answer is to get Charlie back as soon as, and don’t rest any of our best players. We know what our best team is. It’s clear. Wrap them in cotton wool and hope for the best, or football purgatory awaits.
0


UpTheRs added 17:09 - Dec 29

Thank you qprbenjamin for taking the time to write that. I can't add very much more but watching this was really difficult though after the team was announced well that was going to be a difficult afternoon. I wrote previously that my hopes were really buoyed by the appointment of JFH and I thought (wrongly) that he would take time to analyse the team and look at a few matches from earlier in the season but how could he have done that? If he had he would have learned that Phillips is no striker and that Fer is poor and Henry is even poorer and as for Toszer..... it is like playing with someone who has made a pact with the opposition. And what about playing some youth players and please please start Luongo who is both quick and creative and can actually score ditto for Chery. JFH has to really change things....what's the definition of madness..... doing the same thin g over and expecting a different result....
1


aceofthebase added 20:26 - Dec 29

Juanmi and Ramirez I gave each one point. Such a pity we cannot award zero points and if we were awarding points to our manager for those substitutions then he sould have been given zero points.

We all saw a pretty good first half hour, totally overrunning WH but then we relaxed and started the second half like strangers. The strength of our subs bench is woeful but we are still missing a first choice player at right back. I would like to have more hmegrown talent but they now have such limited recent experience that they too would struggle.

I agree that Ramirez has not had enough time on the pitch but after this performance I don't think we will see him again.

Romeu looking better each game and a better player than Clasie at the moment.

I don't think Forster will make much difference. I think he kept so many clean sheets because the defence in front of him last season prevented the opposition from shooting on target and I also saw him at a loss in communicating with our defenders.

0


SaintBrock added 23:02 - Dec 29

Doubt Koeman had much choice as Tadic and Mane were burnt out by then and probably highly injury-risk prone. With nothing else on the bench what could he do although JWP wasn't used oddly.
0


Garnham added 21:13 - Jan 1

Three games in a week from a group of slow older players. No surprise we lacked any poise/control.
0


Royboy48 added 08:31 - Jan 2

Hull City were simply the better team and deserved to win
0


tsbains64 added 11:20 - Jan 2

Poor performance carried on from the Huddersfield game We panicked once we scored-again! I like Poulter he is raw but shows promise-his header was impressive Dont think the player are upto what jimmy wants them to do
The sad thing was that Hull were just as poor but are flying high in the league Subs made very little difference
Green and Hall need to speak -shamble of a goal fro Hull but think thye deserved to win
0


IanRC added 17:29 - Jan 2

Pathetic
5


codge added 18:21 - Jan 2

What can you say that we haven't said these past weeks, well l finally feel that Wanyama really is looking to leave, he puts in a man of the match performance against Arsenal to impress them so as to enhance his chances to get traded there but he does not produce in other games.
Two dumb tackles that were very costly by him cost us dearly.Sometimes it looks to me that he really wants out of the game.Again chances missed and it is costing us dearly pretty much every game.
7


aceofthebase added 19:20 - Jan 2

No-one is bigger than the club an RK decided to bench Mane because he was late for a meeting.
I argue that RK has overstepped the mark and that selecting the best team is more important than his ego or authority. Punish Mane by way of fines but do not punish the club and fans by denying us a win and three points. Mane on the bench served no purpose.

Wanyama should have been substituted after the first yellow. The second yellow was always just around the corner.

Today we were let down by poor managers decisions and it hurts me to say so
6


simmo400 added 20:38 - Jan 2

Saints are a poor team. Don't know how we beat Arsenal must have been a fluke. We are poor all over the pitch. RK leaving out Mane was a joke. We need are best players on the pitch and dropping him was like giving them a goal start. RK punished the fans no one else. Wanyama is playing like he has left already he best followed by 2 games of his worst. Bringing on Ramiriz is a joke. Bertrand could not cross the ball if he was still there. I'm not going to scream relegation because the worst teams will finish there. If where there we deserve it.
6


IWOZTHERE added 00:24 - Jan 3

My normal 'stream was inop. (luckily) so I've got no opinion on the performance except to say I'm not surprised by any of it ! Overall, It's sad when a bunch of 'mates' disbands and it develops into this mess. Fair play Nick, you'll try to be calm and put a positive spin on this, but let's address the problems instead of going into denial.
1


DPeps added 00:46 - Jan 3

This is a little bit concerning now. Our good performances this season have been few and far between, and if (or should that be 'when'?) we are in a relegation fight I frankly don't have the confidence that our team will be up to the challenge. Supposedly good sides have gone down before, and fans and the club need to accept that relegation is a possibility if we don't sort our sh*t out soon!
I'm aware that I'm perhaps being negative but I've seen virtually nothing so far this season to justify being positive about things.
5


BoondockSaint added 02:12 - Jan 3

Same old, same old. Look at the teams that are beating us: they work all game long, and score when they get the chance. We are just happy to have a knock-about in the park.
Show Vic the door, his "head is at Arsenal" already.
I used to say Shane Long in front of goal was a coin toss: fifty-fifty chance of him scoring-now it is more like a Dungeons & Dragons polyhedral dice toss!
Yep, fine Mane (or others who break rules) but don't cut off your nose to spite your face.
We can't get a proper read on Gaston until he starts a few games-throwing him on with a few minutes is not fair-if Yoshi can get game after game no matter what, why not Gaston?
2


corkcitysaint added 09:35 - Jan 3

Another poor, shoddy performance. We just don't seem to take a game by the scruff of the neck and fight. Both teams had great chances, maybe Norwich best of all in the first half. Long with a great chance fluffed it. These are the opportunities, away from home, when we are struggling make a massive difference.

At the moment, I'm taking on a glass half empty approach. There's no point in talking about Europa League position when we can't beat the "weaker" teams around us. We are playing like a relegation side.

As for Mane, I agree with RK that he should be dropped if that is the rules of the club. As soon as a player shown indiscipline you have to nip it in the bud or it will filter through to the rest of the players and make the management look weak. Yes, it may affect the overall performance of the team and let the fans down but it is the player who is to blame, not the manager. The player disrespects his team mates, cub and fans. Is it a case of trying to stir up trouble to get a transfer? Wouldn't surprise me.

I fear the defeat will be blamed or over shadowed by the sending off of Wanyama but in truth, it goes deeper than that. I fear the spirit in team and the playing for each other is gone this season and you can't buy that in the transfer window.
4


SaintGeorge added 10:09 - Jan 3

24 points ain't gonna be enough to stay up.

utterly dismal
3


aceofthebase added 10:20 - Jan 3

corkcitysaint there is no dispute that Mane is in the wrong and was in its way disrespectful to the club but I cannot agree with the punishment. There are many other options to choose from eg financial, extra training period even writing a thousand lines but to punish the club andsupporters is plainly wrong. Punish the whole team for him being late with extra trainng and I would suggest that the whole team would ensure that everyone turned up next time.
0


aceofthebase added 10:24 - Jan 3

incidentally sitting on his backside for the majority of the game is not what I would call punishment. Put your feet up lad and have a rest.
-1


aceofthebase added 10:38 - Jan 3

incidentally sitting on his backside for the majority of the game is not what I would call punishment. Put your feet up lad and have a rest.
-1


PezzaSaint added 13:41 - Jan 3

I feel that our transfer policy of the last two seasons is coming home to roost! Both Wanyama and Mane have been stupid for different reasons, but it smacks of them both wanting to be elsewhere? They must sit at home and think to themselves 'other players have been allowed to leave, there surely must be a chance for me to!' And this thought process must affect their motivation. Saints have got a reputation of selling the Crown Jewels and this policy must make players feel that the grass could be greener on the other side? Players don't live in a bubble, they read sports media of which there is loads these days.

Added to this our signings last summer haven't been good enough. Last season's achievements are seeming all the more fantastic at the moment. A player signing this month that turns out to be a bonus could turn things in our favour again.
1


Consigliere added 14:09 - Jan 3

As my old friend Mr Rumpole of the Bailey was fond of saying, "He who keeps his head when all around are losing theirs'..........may have seriously under-estimated the gravity of the situation." This is beginning to look like a relegation dog-fight. As one of the more positive contributors to this site I think it's time for a serious moan about some of our overpaid players. Mane and Wanyama should be told in words of half a syllable that they are employees, no more and no less. They will be held to their contracts and made to serve them out until the very last second. I know that this will mean that the Board won't be able to cash in on valuable commodities but it is necessary to think long-term and to send a very clear message to any other prima donnas in the team: This sort of behaviour will not be tolerated. As to the rest of them I hope that they were told to attend for extra practice at 7am this morning. We, the paying supporters, are not amused.
4


corkcitysaint added 08:10 - Jan 4

Aceofthebase - I don't believe that fines have the effects or impact they once had. Not with the wages that the premiership players are on these days. It would need to be a sizable amount or else fine the whole squad...

As for extra training, I can't see that working either.

Public shaming - as leaving him on the bench, may work. Have people ask the question why he wasn't playing. Have the player come out and explain to the fans why he let everyone down. He knows the rules. This is twice it has happened to him.
-1


Gowerjack added 21:07 - Jan 5

The crab fishcakes were slightly overdone and to be honest notbreally very nice.

My main course of a t bone pork chop was delicious served with chunky chips and homemade picallii. I have to say however I'm no fan of this modish trend of seving food on wooden platters,I much prefer real crockery.

The cheese & biscuits were ok and served at the correct temperature.

The room was quite cramped and had no windows the service and welcome were very good.

Overall I'm only ablento give this one 6 out of 10 nowhere near as good as the hospitality provided at Villa Park.

The Swans lost 2-1.



0


IWOZTHERE added 20:02 - Jan 9

Couldn't get there and lost my live stream. Re RK's interview.... must have been under instructions not to ask about Wanyama... What's the score?
1


IWOZTHERE added 20:19 - Jan 9

WHOOPS! Dementia's kicked in. For some reason I thought VW had served his ban and something sinister was going on!
0


steadyeddie added 21:39 - Jan 9

Bad Bad Bad
1


DPeps added 23:38 - Jan 9

When does next season start?
1


simmo400 added 05:45 - Jan 10

Another poor display with mistakes costing us. Relegation on this form a real possibility
1


mbtsfc added 09:53 - Jan 10

Saints started OK., but were guilty once more of failing to find the net in the opening stages.
Palace looked to hit on the break and were rewarded for their 'in-your-face' attitude by being presented with their first goal.
Yet again indecisive actions by one of our FIVE defenders was capitalised on.
Second goal was a series of defensive errors again,but by that time the Palace had the game won.
A late rally may be carried forward into our next game; one can hope?
Is it just me or did it look like most of the Palace players were taller/slimmer/fitter than Saints?
The only exception to that was Jason, (not quite the tall/slim type! ) who was right up there in the rankings for man of the match in my opinion. Pardew had us sussed before we kicked a ball, and will one day be a great England Manager, as long as he can stop 'admiring' the wife of a player or two....
1


aceofthebase added 10:09 - Jan 10

We started with five at the back! They snuffed out their one attacker very effectively until...

0


aceofthebase added 10:20 - Jan 10

I was very impressed with the half time warm up routine by Tadic, twisting and turning and looking very dynamic. It was a pity that it must have exhausted him as he fell asleep late in the half when caught in possession a couple of times.
I haven't seen RKs post match interview as yet but his pitchside attitude looked very morose and not very inspiring. Is his heart in a different place, I sincerely hope not.
1


SaintBrock added 11:50 - Jan 10

How much longer will Koeman be here? This was diabolical.
0


Big_T added 13:30 - Jan 10

Worked hard for 15-20min. When will saints play 90+min
0


aceofthebase added 15:19 - Jan 10

IWOZTHERE Try cricfree
0


windsorloop added 11:05 - Jan 13

Hasselbaink & his predecessor both have a reluctance to bring on Substitutes. We keep conceding late goals as our aging players must get tired, particularly with all that defending. After Blackburn equalised in the 85 minute, we brought on Petrasso on the 88 minute & Chery 1 minute into injury time. I see that Blackburn to get back into the game got ALL three substitutes on well before, bringing on fresh legs to get the equaliser.
0


halftimeorange added 10:51 - Jan 14

Instead of feeling total misery
I am moved to a bout of amphigory
The saints turned up and performed as a team
I began to think I was deep in a dream
Davies, Targett, Long all deserve mention
They wanted to play, that was their intention
Even the ref had a pretty good game
And that's one for the book, as they're generally lame
As for Sadio Mane, please teach him to shoot
Or at Man Utd he'll merely be a substitute

How on earth did the BBC pick Sadio as Man of the Match! Unbelievable!
4


SaintBrock added 11:20 - Jan 14

Amazing intensity from the get-go, Davis absolutely outstanding and superb performances from Romeu, Clasie, Soares, Van Dyke and Targett. We have waited a long time for this. A better performance that the win against Arsenal and the only downside was the rate of conversion of chance into goals. I felt sorry for Gomes who was the busiest man on the pitch and helped keep the score down to two. 5,6 or 7 nil would have been a better reflection of the run of play but Watford were competitive throughout to make e a greta match overall. More of the same on Saturday gentlemen. please.
0


RogerToye added 11:37 - Jan 14

good performance in the wet we had a good pair in centre mid Clasie and Romeu terriers .. Matt Targett crossing as vastly improved and Shane Long's untiring effort Not forgetting Mane and on another day could have netted three Steven Davies goal was superbly taken no way was it OFFSIDE. Should have been 5.. Good to see the First team nearly back to full strength. Another striker to pair up front and we will be back up there.
0


Consigliere added 12:59 - Jan 14

One swallow doth not a summer make and certainly not a wet and cold January evening, but its one hell of a lot better than the alternative! In fact, I don't think that the team was doing very much different to usual, just 10% better and with a lot more energy. The high pressing game that suits in particular Long, Mane and Tadic worked well and Davis was immense in midfield. Silly mistakes were avoided at the back and but for a bit of ill-fortune and some first class goal-keeping from Gomes, we could have had a hatful. I went to this game with fairly low expectations and was pleasantly surprised by how just small changes can affect the outcome. The frustration is that so many previous games could have ended like this had just a little more skill and application been brought to bear. My hopes for the weekend are up a bit but not by much I regret to say. Two or three further performances like this however and they will be up to volume 11!
1


sidsaint added 16:02 - Jan 14

Great energy and skill all round from a number of players. Shooting boots still missing for Mane. If we carry on like this someone is going to feel like Sunderland did last season. Keep it up boys.
0


Bettwsresident added 19:40 - Jan 14

We played as a team..everything worked but some players deserve special mention.

Targett was superb in the first half, Davis immense in the second. I have to say Clasie's passing was the weak link. he kept on passing backwards and when he did pass forwards he missed 3 golden chances to set up attacks in succession mid way through the first half. I was impressed by his defensive work and with Fonte marshalling Ighalo superbly and VVD cutting out the crosses we looked really solid at the back. Long took his goal rally well, ran his heart out and looked exhausted at the end. Cedric was great in the first half.

I agree with the comments that we should have had more, Mane (twice) and Long missed golden chances and Davies superbly taken goal was not offside, it should have been 4 at least. Why can't we play like that every week!
0


sherpajacob added 21:22 - Jan 14

who gave the referee more than 1?
0


codge added 17:37 - Jan 16

Great all round display, plus l predicted 3-0 so feeling pretty good about the way Saints are playing right now. Also the signing of Charlie Austin for a steal of a price gives us a lot better feeling going forward.As l said a great team performance from everyone and that looks good for the rest of the season.
Would like to give a special shout out to Steven Davis what a work rate he puts in week after week,to me man of the match, could of been several others also.Coyr.
4


Big_T added 19:06 - Jan 16

S Davis man of the match massive again
2


uaesaint added 19:50 - Jan 16

Great to have Austin on bored ..... But think pella will be gone in this window
0


halftimeorange added 20:37 - Jan 16

I wondered whether the Austin announcement is the sweetener before they give us the bitter pill.
As for today, I felt sorry for Romeu who didn't deserve to lose his place, albeit that Wanyama played well enough. Fabulous free-kick and penalty from JWP. Outstanding performance from Van Dijk, closely followed by Cedric and Long (for effort). Davies understandably faded in the second half. Only downsides for me was Fraser passing short to Fonte on a couple of occasions (why do that and risk compromising him?) and the leniency of an otherwise decent referee. A couple of the WBA names should have been in his book.
2


Bettwsresident added 08:12 - Jan 17

Another great performance from Targett. It is an inspired tactical swich by Koeman to playing this 3,5,3 which creates space for him and Cedic to play higher up the park.

Agree with above comments, and if Austin is a 'sweetner' for Pelle going to Juve it doesn't bother me in the slightest. He beats Pelle on many aspects, speed, shooting, skill and most importantly is so much better re: goals/shots ratio. This is a problem saints have.. we are a seriously creative team and all too often play other teams off the park for long periods but don't score as many as we should. I have a sneaky feeling Austin might solve this.

whatever a great week...totally changed the atmosphere around the club. Now we every chance of repeating last years results at Man U.

2


corkcitysaint added 11:31 - Jan 17

JWP scoring 2 goals or do I have double vision??!

Have to echo most the above. Great team performance.Davis Man of the Match for me. Long great game too. Targett is playing well and seems to play better further forward where he doesn't get caught out with his lack of pace tracking back. For me, his lack of pace is his Achilles heel.

West Brom are no pushovers. They keep it tight but we thoroughly bossed them. Great show.

Only downside for me is Mane's lack of goals. He's been in some great positions recently and fluffed it. No taking our chances is what has put us in trouble. Hopefully with the signing of Austin, things will improve. As for Pelle, I am a fan of his and I think a lot of his work goes unnoticed. He does gives us another option. Can I see him staying beyond the end of the season though, no.

If we put in some solid performances now and remain tough to beat in the next couple of games, I'll feel a lot more positive is us kicking on from here.

C'mon lads!
1


SaintBrock added 11:52 - Jan 17

Two in a week and no defeats. There was a time this season when lying 10th would have been regarded as failure but today it looks a lot like we are moving in the right direction sat last. If only we can do a job on Manure next week!

Sadio is right out of sorts at the moment and needs an arm around his shoulders, he always looks dangerous but close marking seems to knock his game out of its stride. No end product is becoming a worry.

Matt Targett, is he becoming the new Gareth Bale? Both started as left backs and with Matt in his new position looking like a new player one wonders if he'll end up as a true winger. His remarkable improvement makes him hard to leave on the bench. He looks a better bet than JWP at becoming our next home grown player to become a genuine star. One downside of his new found success is that we have lost Ryan's s scintillating runs down to the bye-line
1


sidsaint added 12:32 - Jan 17

The 3-5-2 system is working really well. Mane not scoring but at least getting into situations where he can shoot. Not able to give Forster a high mark yet because he hasn't had much to do. Long may it continue.
1


RogerToye added 13:45 - Jan 17

its interesting to watch the squad changes and the pairings that RK goes with.

Wanyama still hiding and blind to the pass on some occasions and yet still has the physical presence needed to break up teams attacks JWP great game with steven davies supporting Mane and Shane long
who tirelessly are worth there weight in gold at the moment

wonder how CA will get in and who he will pair up best with maybe next season it will be him and Jay Rod


-1


SaintBrock added 17:50 - Jan 23

Always looked the better team and controlled the game for most of the time. Great performance away from home you would have thought it was at St Mary's!
4


codge added 18:44 - Jan 23

Really impressive performance from everyone, my one negative is Tadic was never in the game much.He seems to be much better coming of the bench. Really liking this set up Bertrand playing in the back three with Targett pushing forward.
Austin already paying of a big chunk of his transfer early, looks a steal at 4.5 mill.Coyr.
6


mbtsfc added 19:03 - Jan 23

Officials were taken in by United once more,missing a pen., against Long then another by Smalling on van Dijk. Southampton looked assured,strong and business-like. The game was there to win; United being very poor. We deserved the win.
6


corkcitysaint added 19:59 - Jan 23

Ah, savour the moment! A sweet victory. Overall we were strong, organised, well disciplined and played as a unit, with a game plan. Downsides were Mane,. He really needs a goal and Tadic. Pretty ineffective on the pitch. United were poor and I'm delighted we took advantage of them on their home turf again. Another clean sheet too.

If we can keep this consistency going, hopefully we can finish top 7. Austin, 1 attempt on goal and scores.. that's what we need. Top marks to Shane Long. Worked his socks off today. Would like to see him and Austin starting together next match.

C'mon Saints!
5


BoondockSaint added 21:08 - Jan 23

I have been ranting since the summer to get Austin in specifically for this- he is the type of player that gets that last minute goal that breaks teams hearts! Ron must be delighted-he may have just got Van Gaal sacked.
3


simmo400 added 10:15 - Jan 24

Not much in this game really both teams struggled to create. Saints looked in control for most of the game and in Charlie Austen we have a guy who given a chance will finish. Could be the bargain buy of the season.
1


Harbour added 10:41 - Jan 24

good first half played tempo pressing game...Poulter did well took his goal well...Should really have scored a second. Lost the plot second half ran out of steam....Their goal was very lucky....but Smithies produced several good saves......Should have won it at the end great set up by Connor and Chery should have buried it....bit lucky with handball claim against Hall who again was class
0


Winchsaint added 11:06 - Jan 24

Entertainment wise this really was not a classic, but tactically it was a masterclass and Koeman must be delighted to beat Louis Van Rental on his home turf two years running. The first half in particularly was pretty dull but all the attacking play there was came from the Saints forwards which had the 'natives' increasingly restless and booing their team off at home time (but wouldn't you if you'd flown in from Dubai/China/Portsmouth *delete as appropriate*) Fonte was outstanding and had Shrek in his pocket all afternoon and Forster's mere presence alone has a Gandalf esque none shall pass effect. Manè missed a golden chance but at least ran his socks off, fab favourite Tadic did very litre whereas the much criticised Clasie was my man of the match, chasing down everything and forcing errors from United all over the pitch. Finally, Charlie Austin...what more can you say?First touch first goal, exactly where to be an has clinical finishing we have missed since Lambert left. What a day to be a Saints fan, is there any victory sweeter in the Premier League!
3


Consigliere added 12:55 - Jan 24

Someone had to say it, and the Observer report doesn't disappoint - "Austin Powers in to raise stakes for Van Gaal".

What fine reading that makes. I agree with other posters that this wasn't a classic game but who cares? Would we rather be Norwich, losing by one goal in an exciting match? I think not.

Don't get carried away though - still a long way to go - but its moments like this that make the painful times worth suffering.
1


SaintGeorge added 18:53 - Jan 24

Man of the match was Wanyama for me - outstanding presence all over the field.
1


RogerToye added 00:09 - Jan 25

was a close well defended match, experience showed in the end both on and off the field
and looking at Arsenal we can keep a clean sheet there, we can score goals now from all over the pitch.

you would have done well to write this script!! Charlie Austin gave him a 9 purely for presence right place right time ...

0


SaintBrock added 22:00 - Feb 2

Phew! We got away with that one lads. Thank you Fraser you are a Star.

Having said that, serious questions need to be asked about Tadic and Mane - they are just not good enough and it's happening too often. Sell them both in July and get some decent wingers in.
3


WestSussexSaint added 22:57 - Feb 2

Combination of Fraser in top form and a decent slice of luck. We were disappointing going forwards though. If Charlie had been fit you would fancy he would have put one chance away that Mane and co had.
1


uaesaint added 01:52 - Feb 3

Great point first team this season to get 4 points from thanks ass-Nell well done forester not had lot to do in past games but boy did he play a blinder ...... Not often I will say this but hope Chelsea win or we drop a place
1


AussieSaint added 05:32 - Feb 3

Shame Austin (injured) wasn't on the bench as I feel he could have nicked a goal, still a good point for us.
Does anyone know how Ronald Koeman got bruising to his face - shooting practice?
1


simmo400 added 06:45 - Feb 3

toothless up front Saints and therefore let Arse build up the pressure. Fraser had a good game and a good team performance overall. COYR
1


corkcitysaint added 07:26 - Feb 3

Happy with a point. Thought the team as a whole played well. Were well organised and looked solid. First half was our better half and you would expect Arsenal to come at us more in the second half. Maybe a few matches back we would have crumbled and lost 3-0 so we are moving in the right direction. Full credit to Forster, great display. Also thought Wanyama, Fonte and Romeu had good matches.

Attacking wise we had no real clear cut chances. Mane I think is lacking a bit of confidence at the moment. and do with being rested for the next game. He's done a lot of running but his finishing has been woeful of late. Tadic for me should be on the bench and come on as a sub. Has maybe a 10-15 spell where he's on the ball in a whole match than he fades out of it completely.

In summary, a good, deserved point if perhaps a little fortunate but it's about time things worked in our favour.
1


Bettwsresident added 07:56 - Feb 3

Epic performance from Forster. The first time I have given a 10. If our attack was functioning we could have nicked it. Pelle, Mane both fluffed good chances and Long's backheel when running though was painful!

Arsenal offence was inventive and skillfull as shown by their 10 shots on target but Forster filled the goal. So glad he is a saints player.

7 points from away trips to Arsenal, Man U and Chelsea, Yosh handed Man U the points at St Marys and we pounded Arsenal. I can never remember Saints being this good against the big rich clubs. Long may it last.

3


warrens76 added 09:34 - Feb 3

Saint Brock... Tadic final ball was delivered before the extinction of the dinosaurs, as for Mane is he sponsored by Robertsons jelly because he sure as hell turns into it in one on one 'easy' situations..it's not just the missed opportunities, far worse it heaps additional pressure on the defence as they never have a cushion to work with, the opposition take heart fromit as well...
1


Alehouse added 12:02 - Feb 3

Good defensive performance, especially from Fraser Forster. Van Dyke also excelled. However, we are really missing Steve Davis . We have plenty of defensive cover in midfield, Romeu, Clasie, Wanyama but nothing creative which means that we can only make a limited number of chances and cannot dominate the opposition.

I never mentioned Ward-Prowse, which is because I just can't see what useful contribution he makes.
0


PezzaSaint added 13:04 - Feb 3

Think our performance in defence and defensive midfield warranted some luck. Tadic is a waste of space imo. Referee gave us a few decisions in the 1st half, but certainly tried to even things up after the break. Great point overall. On a side note, apart from not singing, Arsenal fans are also real Whingers!!
0


RogerToye added 13:27 - Feb 3

great defensive display against an Arsenal who pinged the ball about very well 4 point of possible the champs or runners up congrats all round Solid performance
0


RogerToye added 13:33 - Feb 3

Tadic and Mane are good enough, it's attitude plus the amount of games in the the Eredivise is far less (also with a winter break over there) than they are uses too. Also Pelle both times about this time of year as an injury lay off and gets christmas. from that point of view we need hardier players but all three have brought something special after the Exodus, however not for all the games.
0


TimSaint added 17:48 - Feb 3

Alehouse - he is not my favourite, but I am glad JWP was on the line last night - the one and only time that Fraser was beaten !!
0


corkcitysaint added 20:14 - Feb 6

95 + minutes later, nerves are shattered. Early dominance paid off. Yoshida, pops up when you least expect him! We are talking about him again but positively this time..

Defended doggedly once more which is very encouraging. Showed great character and backbone and couldn't be happier with the win. Had Shane and Charlie taken their chances it would have eased the pressure a bit. Having said that, for all West Hams pressure they didn't really threaten but when balls are being lumped into the box, they could fall anywhere. Especially in the 94th minute...

As for Wanayama's sending off, I think it is a little harsh, looking worse then it was. From what i could see, he tackled between his legs (so to speak) and didn't chops the legs down. No doubt, it added the pressure on us but we stood tall.

We march on the the next match!
4


tsbains64 added 20:47 - Feb 6

could have been 5 nil at ha;f time In the end lucky to hang on for a draw Smithies rose to the occasion Nice touches from Washington but Luongo and Hall were outstanding Their fans deserve some credit too We did not concend in the last minute have we turned the corner?
0


DPeps added 20:50 - Feb 6

What a difference a good keeper makes!
Weird game. Defended brilliantly but we kept inviting wave after wave of West Ham attack because of our inability to hold the ball in attack - before and after the red card. Pelle and Mane tried, but the big man didn't have his touch back after injury and Mane, well, it's not really going for him at the moment.
Red card - stupid challenge. Not a red but I can see why the ref gave it. Payet and Byram committed worse challenges in my opinion.
All in all, good battling performance and a great result in the circumstances
2


aceofthebase added 21:15 - Feb 6

As soon as we scored we went on the back foot and handed WH a chance to dominate the game.
VW jeopardised the victory but a great rearguard action by the whole team. Some played better thsn others but all put in plenty of effort. A very spirited performance but it made fo a very nervous watch.
3


luffy22 added 23:05 - Feb 6

Not a very good game really,west hame don't have much in attack and we defend like world champions.
I don't think people should mark VW down as he was unfairly sent off watching the replays, when on the pitch he done a good job in breaking down the attacks and making the goal. Long should be info the grief really, just not good enough when he has the ball, agree runs a lot and puts in challenges but thats about it, too many attacks get created when he loses the ball far to easily or he passes to the oposition .
As the last two game show we need some quality upfront and we just don't have it. The defence was awesome, what a signing Van Dijk is and his work alongside Fonte who was also very good makes for what every team except Leicester envious.
2


Big_T added 01:57 - Feb 7

Payet did very well to get VW sent off. Clangerburg didn't see it as Song was in his view, so he guessed, and got it wrong. Strong yellow at best, West Ham ran out of ideas so reverted to old habits of time wasting and cheating by calling for hand ball every time someone headed the ball. Poor game good win for Saints.
0


WestSussexSaint added 07:38 - Feb 7

Great backs to the wall effort, particularly from the back five. Wanyama can count himself unlucky to be sent off for the tackle as Clattenburg totally bought Payets overreaction. It was no worse than some of the WHU tackles that were made during the match which were deemed yellow card offenses. That said Wanyama is becoming a liability in these situations with discipline and Saints were better with Romeu in the side.
3


Consigliere added 08:22 - Feb 7

IF THE ARSENAL match was a game of one goalkeeper, this was a game of two outfielders, Yoshida and Wanyama. Now I'm not one of those contributors who are always on Yoshida's back, indeed I am usually supportive of him, but yesterday he would have been my MOM even if he hadn't scored. This was an assured, solid performance, unhurried by the incoming attackers and at times insouciant, (though even I could hardly watch when he did a reverse-ferret in his own penalty area with the Wham attack right beside him)! As for the goal, well it wasn't pretty but it had the element of surprise which was enough, and lets face it, John Terry has scored many a similar goal and been praised for it. Now to Wanyama. Up to the sending off he had a pretty decent game, but he is basically hot-tempered and clumsy and therefore always a risk to the rest of the team. It was always a matter of time before he went into the referee's book and from where I was sitting I wasn't surprised that it was red. However, like others on this site I have since watched it again on MOTD and now I'm not so sure. It was certainly clumsy but it wasn't aggressive and Payet made more of it than was necessary - did anyone else see the big grin on his face after the sending off? Very unattractive. So whilst I am critical of Wanyama for putting us all through nearly 45 minutes of buttock-clenching discomfort for the remainder of the match, perhaps he wasn't entirely to blame.
3


SaintBrock added 10:33 - Feb 7

What a grind that was. Tough being a supporter on days like this, like most I thought we'd concede sooner or later but the luck and good organisation won the day. Good job WHU were woeful in the final third and even worse at shooting than us.

Vic? What can you say, Morgan was just the same. Sooner or later under pressure they lose the plot and dive in. A Red was fair given the number of verbal warnings that he had had from Clattenburg before that, virtually every tackle he made was whistled up as a foul.

Charlie Austin looked a bit static after Pelle and will need to put himself about a lot more than this, he is not another Jay Rodrigues that's for sure so must battle like Pelle, win the first balls and hold it up for the fast runners. He needs time to adapt and settle in so next season looks to be when he will be at his best and most effective. Right now Pelle deserves to be first choice.

Big shout out for Maya Yoshida, what a smashing bloke to have on the bench and not moaning week after week.
0


Jesus_02 added 10:59 - Feb 7

Stand out players for me where Soares and Long, Yoshida had a good game but I still didn't feel confident that he was on the same wave length as the rest of the team. I thought VW was playing badly before he was sent off, Romeu looks a lot better IMO. However Payet was a cheat in my view, conning the ref is cheating in my book and if i could have 3 football wishes at the top would be retrospective reviews to ensure that cheating receives a ban of some kind
0


TimSaint added 12:58 - Feb 7

Unfortunately this game is being talked about for all the wrong reasons. We had the upper hand and scored early on, but after about 25 mins, we decided to sit back, let West Ham back into the game, then chase the ball for a couple of mins before giving it straight back to them. We defended resolutely after the red card and could and perhaps should have scored a couple more on the break. Good work guys.

Vic was stupid to make such a rash challenge and I can see why he was shown a red, but having had the luxury of watching it from many angles, clearly there is no contact (even Bilic confirmed this ffs), no scissors action and it is definitely not a red (only given due to players surrounding the ref) - but perhaps a yellow. I say perhaps a yellow, because this is my grudge - consistency !! Payet dived many times in the game, or made the most of tackles to win free kicks. - like the one in the corner from which Hammers had their only header on goal, and obviously the red card incident. He was clearly acting, even holding his other leg at one stage and yes, he was smiling about it. Should have got a card for diving. He later did as bad a foul, but didn't get a card, Valencia got a yellow, fair enough, but Byram was a definite red - Bertrand kept him on the pitch by not rolling around and it was worse than Vic's

It would appear that Clatt has it in for us and Vic in particular. Perhaps we should jump on the Arsenal band wagon and try to stop certain referees from officiating our games ? Both Clatt and Vic now have card happy reputations - one for giving and one for receiving !!

0


RogerToye added 14:04 - Feb 7

Well played saint's Victors without Victor for a third of the game.. jeeez when will he learn clasie romeu and yoshida further advanced was lesson learned
1


MelakaRanger added 14:42 - Feb 13

As bad a performance as any of the Tony Fernandes era

From JFH down - embarrassing

0


Harbour added 16:40 - Feb 13

Very disappointing display...Fulham were the better side and in McCormack & Dembele had 2 top strikers...Midfield we missed Ale F and think would have helped if Henry came on to shore it up as we were being overrun before the first goal which Mcormack took well but had Smithies stood up he would have saved it...second and third goals awful defending.. Second half better but game over by then...think Washington and Elkayati did ok...Foolham could have had a fourth,,,,Chery goal small consolation for a poor performance....need to improve attitude for these derby games which was as most of LR sang was embarrassing
0


SaintBrock added 17:33 - Feb 13

I guess we went there for a draw or a 1-0 with that highly defensive set-up. It certainly seems to work even if it doesn't look very attractive. This is how you win trophies no doubt but we never looked under much threat from a poor Swansea side that had no clue how to break us down. Happy days! COYR
1


HollowayRanger added 17:59 - Feb 13

joke marks for a joke performance. subs were the best players pity we couldn't use more
0


Geoff78 added 19:24 - Feb 13

Shocking first half. Defence completely unable to deal with mobile forwards making intelligent runs. So disappointing after defence are least had seemed more solid in recent weeks. But they were given no protection by Tozser and Luongo who were both extremely poor.

Second half a bit better. At least JFH made bold substitutions although probably would have done better to shore up midfield with Henry.

Really missed Faurlin - our only midfielder who can tackle and pass with a modicum of skill.

Smithies did pretty well.
0


NW10Hoop added 20:12 - Feb 13

How on earth is Smithies the (currently) highest rated QPR player? Although he can't solely be blamed for letting in the goals his distribution was Green-esque at best
0


Bettwsresident added 23:46 - Feb 13

Rubbish first half, looked like exhibition match at times. What Davis was doing parked on the right touchline was beyond me. Saying that we did have the tow best chances as Pelle and Long managed to hit the ball straight at the keeper. Long's was a bad miss.

2nd half better, waiting to see on MOTD why goal was disallowed (fitting it is last game!) Introduction of Cedric changed it. Davis went into midfield and he provided great cross, and Long finished really well. Should have had a late 2nd when Austin shot instead of crossing to a wide open Long.

Defence was solid, never looked like conceding and VVD was immense again. Romeu had a great 2nd half, JWP looked flakey. Yosh should have conceded a pen.. he was only on for 10mins!

Swansea only really looked dangerous when Gomis came on.

We are on one hell of a run, long may it continue. The away fans were great.




1


Bettwsresident added 23:57 - Feb 13

just seen it...it should have been 2-0 and Pelle would have had a precious goal....Ref had a bad game
1


MickB added 08:54 - Feb 14

At least Toszer must be able to see the spectators point of view. He was one. I have seen teddy bears with more fight.
And where was Ned when the captain needed the team needed rallying? As a player he is (usually) worth his salt, but as a Captain? This lot are too quiet.
0


snanker added 09:53 - Feb 14

Gutting "effort'' all to play for (given the Cottage thumping) and after recent performances seeing some light at the end of the tunnel we revert to the oncoming locomotive. Q.P.R. to a tee. A step forward and a big B. Fawlty stride backwards. No AF, no imagination ? No stomach, little fight and what leadership did we witness ? Fulham should have won by more to be honest. Bottom line not good enough.........................
0


Royboy48 added 15:35 - Feb 14

Reasons for the debacle are crystal clear

No on-field leadership.
Fulham understood how important is the local derby was to their fans

In no mood,nor any need, to dissect this corpse further

0


TimSaint added 11:17 - Feb 15

Bettws - and you would have also seen that it was JWP's cross for the goal, not Davis - who played the cross-field ball to Cedric.
Yoshi penalty incident was nothing. Firstly Gomis was fouling Fonte before it got to Yoshi. Secondly they Swans player jumped into Yoshi, desperately looking for something. Not even close to a pen. Thankfully we had a ref in Moss, that was up with play and made the correct call. God only knows what would have happened if Clatenberg was in charge !!

Rightly last on MOTD, but who cares. There wasn't a great deal to show from the game, but we won it and can keep on carrying on, under the radar and just see whathappens over the last 12 games. A great weekend in South Wales, yet again :o)
0


Bettwsresident added 11:57 - Feb 15

Timsaint, you're spot on, realised I was wrong when I saw it on MOTD. In the heat of a goal memories blur! The images I have 'filed' are Cedric sprinting to get the ball from Davis and the ball squirming under Fabianski.

It was a great weekend in South Wales! The snow capped black mountains were stunning (if a bit brisk at the top!)
0


TimSaint added 12:12 - Feb 15

Bettws - we stayed in Merthyr Tydfil on Saturdsy night, then did a rather snowy Pen y Fan on Sunday morning and a very underrated and interesting Big Pit in the afternoon - before driving back to Hampshire. So yes, a great weekend indeed :-)
0


tsbains64 added 14:45 - Feb 15

we made them look like Brazil! Only afterwards did I find out that they had not won since october! Wong tactics-no use blaimng the team -the buck stops at JFH
0


geraldo added 11:11 - Feb 17

KH has completely lost the plot - bizarre doesn't come anywhere near describing his team selection.We were at home against a team in the bottom 3 and he picks a team with no creative midfield player and a sole striker with no support whatsoever. We were gifted our two early goals and after that there was only one team playing football.Substitutions are meant to strengthen the team but the 3 we brought on did nothing at all - Sayers is not good enough and at the moment Vicenti does nothing but stroll about. I honestly wish that I had not bothered last night and can only say that I am glad to be going on hols so miss the next 3 matches after which I expect us to be staring into the abyss of L2.
0


TalkingSutty added 18:59 - Feb 17

Rochdale v Crewe on a cold wet miserable February night, it must be one of the oldest and most frequent fixtures in the Football League. Not a fixture to get the juices flowing and it certainly didn't, a few hours that we will never get back. It was bad, a bit depressing actually.

The team line up warned us what to expect, a team devoid of any midfield prowess and stuffed with defensive players. It had 'draw' written all over it before a ball had been booted. Actually we started like an house on fire and Bennetts decent header quickly followed by Bunneys bundle had us two nil up in the blink of an eye. It didn't last, with our defenders it rarely does.

So Crewe responded and their first goal was never far away. Shortly after the net bulged, it bulged again. The second goal was notable for the way our defence just let the visitors waltz Into the penalty area unopposed. Nobody in the Stadium was surprised though, it's a defence that bears gifts on a weekly basis and tonight was no exception. I don't like big fullbacks and they don't call Big Jim, Big Jim for nothing. I wanted to see him go all 'modern' and overlap down the wing, that would have made my night. Anyway, he didn't.

So,four goals in thirty minutes sounds like top class entertainment but it wasn't. Crewe retreated thank god and seemed happy with their work. We huffed and puffed and regularly passed it back to Lancashire to hit his long raking diagonals to no one in particular, you know the script. Crewe's goalkeeper was redundant for the remainder of the match, he wasn't required, we didn't have a shot during the second half.

The crowd was poor but credit to the Sandy Lane faithful for trying to rally the troops, it didn't work though. The point wasn't a bad one in the full scheme of things but the team selection and overall performance reflected the weather on the night, it was bloody miserable.
0


TalkingSutty added 19:08 - Feb 17

Rochdale v Crewe on a cold wet miserable February night, it must be one of the oldest and most frequent fixtures in the Football League. Not a fixture to get the juices flowing and it certainly didn't, a few hours that we will never get back. It was bad, a bit depressing actually.

The team line up warned us what to expect, a team devoid of any midfield prowess and stuffed with defensive players. It had 'draw' written all over it before a ball had been booted. Actually we started like an house on fire and Bennetts decent header quickly followed by Bunneys bundle had us two nil up in the blink of an eye. It didn't last, with our defenders it rarely does.

So Crewe responded and their first goal was never far away. Shortly after the net bulged, it bulged again. The second goal was notable for the way our defence just let the visitors waltz Into the penalty area unopposed. Nobody in the Stadium was surprised though, it's a defence that bears gifts on a weekly basis and tonight was no exception. I don't like big fullbacks and they don't call Big Jim, Big Jim for nothing. I wanted to see him go all 'modern' and overlap down the wing, that would have made my night. Anyway, he didn't.

So,four goals in thirty minutes sounds like top class entertainment but it wasn't. Crewe retreated thank god and seemed happy with their work. We huffed and puffed and regularly passed it back to Lancashire to hit his long raking diagonals to no one in particular, you know the script. Crewe's goalkeeper was redundant for the remainder of the match, he wasn't required, we didn't have a shot during the second half.

The crowd was poor but credit to the Sandy Lane faithful for trying to rally the troops, it didn't work though. The point wasn't a bad one in the full scheme of things but the team selection and overall performance reflected the weather on the night, it was bloody miserable.
0


enfieldargh added 22:42 - Feb 23

The second referee gets 10/10 and an oxygen tent
0


pnc4eva1 added 18:56 - Feb 27

Poor first half display when Dale were outclassed and Josh Lillis earned his man of the match award.

Second half substitutions changed the game. Wonderful
0


TimSaint added 19:00 - Feb 27

We got done by the pantomime that is CFC and some awful decisions from the officials.

For the first half an hour we were on top, then let them take control, but against the run of play, scored a great opportunist goal from Long - who anticipated well and finished even better.

2nd half i said to my cousin that we would see the cheating diving theatrics from Chelsea and i wasn't wrong.

Costa shoved VVD in the face and should have walked. The ref just wasn't interested and bottled it. This sparked a 5 min yellow frenzy where any foul from a Saints player ended in a yellow. Willian rolled fully 3 times over to ensure he got Clasie booked but then didn't so much as a talking to, after committing a similar offence minutes later.

Cahill looked to bring down Austin in the box, but if that wasn't a pen, then whilst both he and Austin were on the deck, Cahill blatantly hand balled it - a definite pen and possibly a red for denying a goal scoring chance.

The worst decision for us was when Kennedy kicked out at Cedric. The linesman flagged for this and indicated it was a saints free kick, but the ref played the advantage for Chelsea and of course they went up the other end and scored.

These incidents changed the game dramtically and every one was bottled by the ref and favoured Chelsea.

In saying that though, we should be playing to the whistle, not rising to their antics and concentrating on ball retention. When chelsea had possession towards the end of the first half and most of the second, we all too ofen gave the ball straight back to them, or hoofed it up to Long or Austin. Pelle then gave it back to them with FOUR stupid flicks in a row. So frustrating for everyone, when holding it or drawing a foul was by far the better option. His flicks have not come off for a while now so learn from your mistakes ?

Gutted to lose in the circumsttances and appaulled by the antics and decisions, but especially in the second half, we failed to threaten much. We were far too defensive minded all second half and the likes of Targett and Davis should have been replaced far earlier. Romeu and Clasie were trying to do it all themselves once Long went off (hope he is ok for Tues)

Let's now start another run of undefeated games starting at Bournemouth on Tuesday.
4


saintandy11 added 19:58 - Feb 27

Cannot understand our tactics for the second half. You concede space on the edge of your box to the likes of Fabregas, Willian & Hazzard and there can be only one outcome, it's not like they are unknown players you know what they are capable of given time and space (and we gave them loads of that). We closed them down well in the first half so why not in the second?
It was painfully obvious from the Northam that Jordy & Oriol were tiring and needed support/replacing but Graziano & Sadio just have well stayed on the bench.
Very disappointing display and we got what we deserved from that. Best team one IMO
3


PezzaSaint added 07:45 - Feb 28

Against the likes of West Ham and Swansea you can go 1-0 up and then defend the lead, against the likes of Chelsea, you can't, simply as that!! Continue to take the game to them, be brave, keep the wing backs pushed up, that's the way to go. More exciting for the fans to!
1


halftimeorange added 10:30 - Feb 28

TimSaint has summed the game up admirably. Martin Atkinson is usually one of the better referees but yesterday he simply tried to keep the game from boiling over however, by keeping his cards in his pocket for some of the Chelsea antics, he failed our players and once again made me wonder over the influence the "big" clubs have over match officials. Allowing Costa to ruffle our composure was surprisingly naive on the part of our players. As for Graziano Pelle, that was a major substitution error by "there's only one Ronald Koeman". To replace our speediest player with a patently lumbering striker was woeful and gave Chelsea more time at the back. To have that lumbering player try fancy tricks instead of holding the ball up as he should and could have done smacks of a distinct lack of instructions from the coaching staff. Fraser Forster let himself down by failing to make any attempt to save their first soft goal. From where I sit I had a clear view of what Fraser saw and he only had to stick a hand out and stop what was a weak shot. Very disappointing. We are not the finished article.
0


SaintBrock added 11:45 - Feb 28

Beaten by a better team on the day but not helped by below par performances from Targett and Forster who seemed to have difficulty keeping his concentration. Once again our link up play was very poor and we were undone simply be being unable to keep the ball in midfield. Right now the mindset is fast one touch football but a slower more carefully structured build-ups might achieve more. A great game to watch but the refs two obvious blunders cost us the match
0


Consigliere added 18:00 - Feb 28

The sad truth is that we were beaten by a better team. I don't disagree with others who have complained about cheating and diving by Chelsea, and yes, the ball did indeed go out of play before the goal and we should have had a penalty (and its also true that Pelle wasn't up to speed), but we were still collectively second best for long periods especially in the second half (actually for almost all of it). The problem is not new. When pressed by a strong attacking team we are forced further and further back, and such counter-attacks as we do have are easily repelled. The defence never got a break because there was relentless pressure on them which the midfield could not relieve. I don't think that Saints actually played particularly badly in the second half, its just that they were unable to hold the ball in midfield. Something to work on.

Still, not ashamed to lose to a very good Chelsea team, and we march on with two very winnable matches next week.
0


awayjack added 18:57 - Feb 28

Midfield completely overrun. Cork / Siggy did OK. has done well recently but he and Ki we're poor and outclassed by Spurs midfield today.
0


themodfather added 19:13 - Feb 28

one of the worst refs ever seen at loftus road....a real shocker.
0


tsbains64 added 08:09 - Feb 29

one of the best perfromances under JFH Hoilett was a revelation and Smithies looks like a great buy. Could not fault the team apart from not getting a third goal Impressive
0


tsbains64 added 08:09 - Feb 29

one of the best perfromances under JFH Hoilett was a revelation and Smithies looks like a great buy. Could not fault the team apart from not getting a third goal Impressive
0


codge added 22:24 - Mar 1

Totally inept display,completely outplayed by the better team that wanted it more.
Sadie Mane was nowhere in this game and will not be missed if this game was anything to go by.Hardly any chances created in this match, Forster looked like a deer caught in the headlights, poor game from others too with the exception of VVD.
Have to turn this around quickly or we lose touch in a hurry.Coyr.
4


SanMarco added 00:06 - Mar 2

We were surprisingly awful from the first kick to the last. We were so bad that it would be pathetic to blame the referee but I did wonder why he gave a free kick EVERY time a Bournemouth player fell over.
This had an end of season feel to it - a bit disturbing only a day after the end of February. Yes - 40 points will be enough to stay up but surely we are more ambitious than that.
5


aceofthebase added 08:03 - Mar 2

Utter tripe. Every Bournemouth player better than ours. Even their manager wss better than ours.
Time to stop kidding ourselves about Europe. We are not good enough and even our recent good run was played on the back foot. We have saved ourselves from relegation but whether w deserved to is another matter.
Only good point about last night is that our good neighbours are a bit close to safety.
4


SaintGeorge added 08:05 - Mar 2

What's the excuse for that performance? Tired after a long coach journey?
ffs
>:o/
5


aceofthebase added 08:07 - Mar 2

Fonte hasn' learnt that sometimes it is better to kick the ball into the stands. He cost us the first goal and the game.
5


SaintGeorge added 08:11 - Mar 2

What's the excuse for that performance? Tired after a long coach journey?
ffs
>:o/
4


corkcitysaint added 08:31 - Mar 2

Afraid I have to agree with all the previous comments. It was a shocker of a performance. we looked disinterested in this "derby" and were bullied for on the beginning. B'mouth were up for it, we weren't. Shocking referring decisions, injured players, wouldn't score if we played until Sunday, just one of those horrendous matches where nothing would go right.

I just hope this isn't the start of a bad run like around Christmas. We have a bad habit of good run, bad run, good run... now is not the time for a bad run.
5


SaintBrock added 09:28 - Mar 2

Inexplicable. Looks like we've settled for 13th place. Everyone played last weekend so no excuse for tired legs. A low for this season even by the standards when we were losing every week. The rest of this season will be a long grind now and looking at the fixture list it is not easy to see where more points will come from.
2


Big_T added 10:41 - Mar 2

Would be nice if the players could let the fans know that they are having a second week off before traveling to the game.

Last nights formations Cherries 4-4-2, Saints 0-0-0 pathetic level of effort.
Saints worst game since they didn't turn up to play Sunderland in the cup last year.
3


SaintGeorge added 11:08 - Mar 2

What's the excuse for that performance? Tired after a long coach journey?
ffs
>:o/
1


SaintGeorge added 11:09 - Mar 2

Sorry I didn't mean to post lots of times - don't know what happened there :o(
1


IanRC added 15:04 - Mar 2

Pathetic display, particularly from Forster
3


mikesaint added 15:31 - Mar 2

Total crap
3


sidsaint added 18:34 - Mar 2

Very poor performance, worst of the season. Miles away from the form against Chelsea.
3


mikesaint added 18:50 - Mar 2

After this total crap dished up by the senior player's perhaps it's time to give the youngsters a game. At least they would try.
1


SanMarco added 22:21 - Mar 2

I see that this performance was too bad to even rate a "Verdict". If we had won just one of these 2 games we would be right up there now...
1


awayjack added 23:42 - Mar 2

Nice to see some reserves step up. Decent effort by all players tonight aside from Ki. Ayew put lots of pressure on and even Gomis worked hard until brain fart in last few minutes.
0


vanmans added 19:14 - Mar 3

Whats up Nick was Saints display so bad you are not doing a Verdict?
2


IWOZTHERE added 15:39 - Mar 4

I guess I'll post on here then... Worryingly bad performance, nothing to commend it except for the display of VVD and perhaps Romeu and Bertrand. Others have said it all so I'll just add: What the fek was Mane doing caught up in a crowded midfield and then having to chase aimless long balls to the corner? Forster has NEVER come out to punch and risk getting clattered.Shake them and yourself up Ron, otherwise we'll end the season going backwards and risk losing more than just Mane and VW.
1


redblooded added 18:05 - Mar 5

Again Saints appear to be unable to work as a team, except for a few short spells in the game. The passing generally appeared rushed and predominantly inaccurate. Pelle again flattered to disappoint being unable to get, hold and then pass the ball, though he did have one or two good moments, in his defence our crossing into the box was abysmal.

We had a few good half chances to score in the first half, but our players losing the ball going forward allowed Sunderland to break. Our shoddy play made them look a half decent team, except they were sh1te in front of goal. Though not a lot worse than us.
Fortunately for us, though Sunderland had the extra man, they put all their players in their own box and invited Saints to attack, fortunately one of the only good crosses allowed our MOTM to poach an undeserved equaliser.

What is so unsettling is that every player can do so much better individually and as a team, how do we so quickly and easily lose our confidence?

A point? Got to say I'm happy.
Ps, our support was poor, until after the sending off (why?)
4


uaesaint added 18:28 - Mar 5

Why or why yoshilda is on the park for 4 mins and they score .... First rule of defense is kick it out to touch or hoof up feild what he do pass it across the box .... Need to lose this jona and fast man has cost us min of 8 points
2


DPeps added 19:20 - Mar 5

Felt like a victory but lots of problems. Awful final ball every time, and terrible set-pieces. Romeu was great, as was VVD
5


halftimeorange added 20:19 - Mar 5

Bizarre tactics. Why take off Clasie? Why no Cedric? Actually, Martina was the source of many of our second-half attacks but occasionally out of position. Van Dijk, Romeu and Clasie worked for ninety minutes. Forster seemed frightened to leave his line. Fonte took one for the team. Neither Davis or Bertrand had practiced taking corners since their last game. Our so-called forwards weren't at the races. Juanmi got almost thirty minutes and sadly contributed zilch. Odd that like the Chelsea game the first innocuous foul by a Saints player (Davis) elicited a yellow card from an over-fussy referee. Our support throughout the game was unheard. Disillusionment strikes again.
2


saintandy11 added 21:04 - Mar 5

Yet another match where we certain players couldn't be bothered. We seem to have 2 or 3 who know they wont be here next season and don't give a toss where we finish.

We didn't deserve to get anything from this game but luckily our Dutch contingent stepped up
3


codge added 22:24 - Mar 5

Another poor performance ,what has happened to Saints, lack of urgency and cohesiveness.We seem to have really gone of the boil lately, other than VVD and Clasie and Romeu the rest pretty average, again Mane and Pelle completely infective along with Tadic.Still hope springs eternal, Coyr.
2


sidsaint added 22:36 - Mar 5

We had a great 6 match run and now our last 2 games have been dreadful. Pelle and Mane, will they ever score again for Saints? I do not understand how some players seem to have an eye on their holidays now that we appear to be safe. Very disappointing.
3


Ali_Diarea added 09:32 - Mar 6

Come on guys we rescued a point by equalising with ten men, let's applaud the character and determination rather slagging the team off!

Amazing how Yoshida gets flack every time he plays and yet it was Fonte that got sent off and no one mentions it, bit of balance required...
-2


SaintBrock added 09:56 - Mar 6

More points also through first half ineptitude. Koeman's comments need to be swallowed with a very large helping of salt, we have become solid mid-table material. Best to forget this season and hope that can re-build in the summer.
2


SaintBrock added 10:02 - Mar 6

more points lost...
2


mikesaint added 16:36 - Mar 6

Yet again total crap dished up by the senior player's perhaps it's time to give the youngsters a game. At least they would try. Why do we have to keep playing Yoshida. He only needs to be on the pitch for a few minutes and then the opposition score. Please Ron don't play him next week.
0


aceofthebase added 19:02 - Mar 6

Halftimeorange threw in a one liner 'Forster seemed frightened to come off his line'. He is so right! Seems unable to make that decision without hesitation and that's fatal
Look I don't want to be negative (but I know I am) but Saints haven't really played well since last season commencing with their home game against Leicester where Long came on and scored two goals. We have lost that dominating style of game with sweet possessive football and now play a defensive game. OK the odd goal gains good points whereas possession doesn't but as a spectator our recent displays are rubbish.
A few victories doesn't disguise the poor teamwork. Forster has had a couple of good games but as I have said before he is a far better keeper when we cut out the crosses and shots at goal.
We just seem incapable of stringing together passes ( apart from across the back line .) Incredibly Bournemouth play the game we used to play!
Early in the season we gave away points by playing Clasie and others who were out of their depth and not ready for the EPL. Our hero of a manager did not get it right. OK they have improved but that's not the point.
It will be interesting to see who joins VVD in central defense, Yasuda or is Gardos going to the thrown in at the deep end post injury.

This is all so disappointing. Where are the pills? Thank goodness as a pensioner I can't get to St Marys for many games but I do watch every game one way or another.
1


Harbour added 11:00 - Mar 9

Great Night....what a contrast to MK....Clint Chery Smithies were highlights....the way Chery took the goal was class...We should had another first half...Second they came back into it but defence was solid...and had Mackie crossed to unmarked ale f we would have won 3-0.... Hoilet Phillips worked their socks off...With rangers you just do not know what the team performance will be....lets hope more of the same v Brentford and not a Foolham or MK performance
0


Royboy48 added 13:47 - Mar 9

Leadership on the pitch makes all the difference

Derby County need not worry about promotion

Really like the look of Cheri/Polter up top

No one really had a bad game but I wish Phillips would give us more

DO NOT move Perch from left back

Find A Way to get Faurlin to a 90 minute player
0


tsbains64 added 14:17 - Mar 9

Impressive display and a great way to respond to the MK games performance. Cant fault the team apart for not getting the deserved 3rd goal I like the new setup and once we have consistency we will be there
Derby only had 3 shots on target -2 of which occured in injury time! Enough said!
0


SaintBrock added 17:11 - Mar 12

If only...

if only Tadic had buried it when unchallenged

if only JWP's free kick had been one inch lower

if only Martina would say in position

If only Clasie has a bigger engine

but there you go, a comfortable win from a well organised defence and a striker gaining in confidence, no doubt with the Euro's in mind.

It looked like a 5-0 was possible in the first half but we always are taken by surprise in the second half that the other team has readjusted itself to deal with our threat. Why can't we adapt that quickly?
4


halftimeorange added 20:05 - Mar 12

We dominated the first half, we wobbled in the second but, above all, we were almost robbed by the consistently worst referee in the EPL, Lee Mason. There is never a game goes by with him in the middle which isn't controversial. The sending off of Sadio Mane was laughable. Unfortunately, so is Sade's contribution these days.
4


Geoff78 added 11:32 - Mar 13

Not sure I can handle the hope in this New Dawn, misery was easier, but it does look like JFH has worked out his best team (although it has taken too long) and got them well organised. Smithies is proving an excellent shot stopper with decent distribution (we're fortunate that Greeno's contract complications has given him this chance), defence scarcely offering a chance (apart from MK Dons), Angella seems to be the organiser/communicator we need, Clint Hill using all his experience and strength to disguise his lack of place and mobility in providing cover for star man Grant Hall. Perch now seems solid at left back and a gorgeous cross for Chery's goal against Derby, but I still worry that Onuoha makes too many mistakes. Midfield is starting to control the game. We're always better with Faurlin in the team (the only man who can both pass and tackle) and Henry now showing better form. Hoilett is rejuvenated and the boss must get the credit for revitalising a player who had completely lost his way. Final ball still not good enough though. Phillips is inconsistent and not sure his dead ball delivery justifies the iffy workrate. And upfront Little and Large. Chery sharp, mobile and an excellent finisher alongside the blonde Bambi. Polter's control and touch are hardly great, but energy, strength, good in the air, speedy if running in a straight line and commitment make him a real handful and create space for others. Think he might become a bit of a cult.

And to top it all much better workrate, pressing high up the pitch and obviously encouraged to shoot on sight. What's not to like. But of course this is Rangers and quite capable of serving up insipid dross next time out. So let's hope... although maybe not to much just yet. And I really couldn't cope with the playoffs again... could I?
0


tsbains64 added 12:41 - Mar 13

Two good wins on the bounce This was more like the Rangers I expected! Good performances all round Impressed with Perch,Hoilett and Poulter Looks like we are developing a pretty good team Real test will come when we play the likes of Preston,Boro and Burnley. If the JFH reign had started like this .....
Greta crowd and good humour from the Bees fans Only down side was the poor ref-was too soft in the fist half and too harsh in the secon -though he saw sense as he could have sent Poulter off with a second yellow
0


aceofthebase added 13:01 - Mar 13

I quite enjoyed that game. Thankfully our backs to the wall period didn't last too long

Tadic must be so happy that we won, miss of the season and so generous of Long
2


Harbour added 14:12 - Mar 13

cracking game and performance...after seeing the foolham and Charlton derbies was great to see an emphatic win in front of full house...poulter Smithies Hill Faurlin Chery had great games but overall hardworking team effort ensured we got the win. Great atmosphere and enjoyed the barracking of bees...3 nil on your big day out! and the are you
greeno in disguise after terrible kicking display from their goalie. First goal from hoilet has to be one of the contenders for goal of the season. nice work from Ned and Cherie to set up BFG for the second goal and well taken third from Cherie after good pressure from the rs.BFG work rate exemplary becoming a bit of folk hero nice touch at the end giving away his shirt...a thoroughly enjoyable afternoon...more please JFH....
0


ShotKneesHoop added 16:37 - Mar 13

A much closer game than the final sore indicates. 3-0 is a flattering score but I'll take it. Brentford's problem was offering no threat to scoring. R's plus was much more commitment, higher pressing and they also got the breaks. Ref lost it half way through the second half, but it was funny when he lost it.

Good day out overall, how come I get fish and chips for a fiver in the Bush, the White Horse is serving Guinness on match days at £3.20 a pint, and the tubes run to time. One of those rare days when Lou Reed starts singing in the background.

It's been years since I had a day at Loftus Road like this. Probably 1968.
0


SaintGeorge added 18:06 - Mar 20

Think we came back from 1 down in the dying minutes at home against Newcastle in 94 or 95 - remember listening to that on the radio and couldn't speak for days from screaming so loud. Pretty sure that 20 years older the voice has gone for good this time.

What a win. Bit bewildered.
1


forallthesaints added 18:28 - Mar 20

What a game and what an effort by the players and what an atmosphere. Last on Match of the Day, I expect but who cares. We were not fantastic in the first half and kept wasting good positions by passing into a crowd, and Liverpool the way they play these days, will always win the ball in those situations. God knows how we let Coutinho get into position and score - that's three games on the trot at SMS that he's done that with the same result every time. The Sturridge goal was also a mess and I felt Forster could have done better with both positionally. Roger East is an absolute buffoon - almost as bad as Lee Mason but then, there's hardly a decent ref in the league these days. It's so frustrating watching Liverpool players lose the ball, fall over, look at the ref with their hands in the air and get a foul. But then, the second half. A really good decision to make the two changes at half time rather than wait and Victor and Sadio were both brilliant - it may take Victor a few days to get over his run from inside his half to the opposite corner! Pelle worked really hard all day and got some stick but a lot of times he won the ball only to have no support close by for second ball. Long was off colour today and the fact he was getting nothing from the ref seemed to get to him a bit (I was getting livid so God knows how he felt). Martina is showing gradually that he has a head for the big games and did really well down the right going forward but defended sensibly as well. But who cares about analysis - the noise and atmosphere after the second goal was brilliant and the place went totally nuts after the third and when he finally blew the whistle at the end. Fantastic effort and so sweet to beat the Scousers. I have to add that Klopp showed a lot of class afterwards, shaking the Saints players hands and applauding the ground as well as his own supporters. And while I'm at it... can we give Lallana a break, please? I'll boo Lovren all day long after the way he behaved but even though Lallana went about things the wrong way when he left, I'll always be thankful for the efforts he put in for the years before that, especially when he had plenty of opportunities to leave when we were in the lower divisions. Time to get off his back. Anyway, slowly calming down after a hugely emotional afternoon. COYS
5


SaintBrock added 18:38 - Mar 20

Very much a game of two halves and for once it was us that changed tactics at HT and flat-footed the opposition. Good win but lots of things to be concerned about. Martina is becoming a liability, he will not stay focused and in position. Makes you wonder how bad Cedric has become in training?

When we had the momentum and had pulled one back, why oh why did Koeman take off Oriel Romeu when he and Victor were playing brilliantly together and absolutely dominating mid-field? Then to bring on a guy who cannot run with the ball or tackle anybody... exasperating! JWP looks light-weight in this team especially mid-field, what can he do except take decent free kicks?

Classie looked lost today.
4


dirk_doone added 19:00 - Mar 20

I agree with SaintBrock's observations. Romeu and Wanyama looked great together. I'm not sure what Clasie is. He looks like a lesser version of Steven Davis. He is a good passer of the ball but he is hopeless at tackling and opposition players easily brush him aside. For long stretches of the game he looks lost. Liverpool were able to run straight through our midfield unopposed until Wanyama came on and stopped them. Whatever Clasie is, he's not a defensive midfielder.
4


aceofthebase added 19:02 - Mar 20

I was going to write a report but 'forallthesaints' has said it all.

Martina is improving ad deserves his place.

What a great game apart from the idiots sat behind me who ruined my son and my day out by summoning a steward and accusing my son of being a Liverpool fan in the Saints end. He missed ten minutes protesting his innocence. I think his crime was taking photos of the Liverpool team after they scored their second goal.
Incidentally the Steward was unnecessarily aggresive in asking my son to leave his seat.

What a great game for the Saints fans
2


halftimeorange added 19:45 - Mar 20

We got away lightly in the first half. Sturridge and Coutinho treated our midfield with contempt. And what was it with Pelle and his stupid flicks. I counted five times he gave the ball away needlessly. The introduction of Wanyama and Mane changed the game. Victor completely wrenched the midfield from Liverpool, ably supported by Romeu. Mane showed consistently what Long had hinted at in the first half - that the Liverpool centre backs could be beaten for pace. Pelle suddenly remembered what he was out there for. The atmosphere in the final fifteen minutes was one of the best I've ever experienced at St Marys. And fair play to Jurgen Klopp. I can't remember another opposition manager coming onto the pitch to shake every Saints player's hand. Like Ronald here he will be a hero on Merseyside.
2


BoondockSaint added 20:01 - Mar 20

We were lax in the first half, they were lax in the second.
Long should have had a penalty in the first (you are never going to get it against a "bigger" club). Ref must have saw the replay at halftime and gave us the penalty to even up (both players were tugging shirts). Too bad Mane got stopped but he made up for it in the end. Big difference was Mane and Big Vic coming on. You have to have a big tough enforcer in the middle to scare teams like this bunch, ManCity, Arsenal, etc who run and hide if you stand up to them, and a striker who can pounce on a ball and score in a flash.

Forallsaints-Klopp may have clapped at the end, but in his post match interview he basically said his players were so used to beating Saints, that they got complacent in the second half and Saints played "good".

Anyway, best win of the season for me, just because of who it was against. They thought they had it in the bag so it hurts even more to lose this way. It showed them up for the bunch of bullies with no backbone they are!

Bonus: Koeman jumping around like Klopp- "Would you like some more salt for your wound, sir?"
3


SaintBrock added 20:18 - Mar 20

BoondockSaint - I too wondered whether the ref was atoning for his first half error by awarding that second half penalty having reviewed it at HT. Maybe Ron or Sammy went in the ref's room at HT and explained how the rules work? More likely Sammy who was great today on the touchline, he so wanted to put on dover on the Scousers for old times sake.
1


welhamdowed added 20:22 - Mar 20

Talk about and game of two halfs. Torn to shreds in the first half but turned it around with a fantastic comeback.

I thought Big Vic was immense and and major factor in the comeback. Great to see Mane firing on all cylinders again. Makes for an interesting season end.
1


IWOZTHERE added 21:25 - Mar 20

Brilliant, who where what or why, haven't a clue!
1


Allan60 added 22:06 - Mar 20

Fortunate that Villa forwards are lacking confidence otherwise we could quite easily have lost 5 - 0.
0


PezzaSaint added 11:14 - Mar 21

Calling all those Fickle Football supporters. A month ago I wanted Mane and Victor gone, couldn't stand their supposed prima doña attitudes. Today I am of a different view! If you really want to go to the next level then you need 'game changers' in your team and in those two we have two. Both were brilliant yesterday and it is only their attitudes that stops them from being like that every week?! Judging by Mane's reaction at the end of the game I think he will be on his way at the end of the season. Nice while it lasted!!
0


simmo400 added 12:15 - Mar 21

Good 2nd half deserved something. Win was a bonus.
0


Addinall added 22:05 - Apr 1

We contributed greatly to all their goals.Hoillet's cross was legitimate so unfortunate there.But Sky and Jordan's drought almost guaranteed this result.
0


HollowayRanger added 00:51 - Apr 2

smithers motm ,defence a joke ,boro played like a REAL TEAM ,and yet we only lost 2-3 and should have had 3-3 but for a useless official so as I can only mark the ref he gets a 1/10 as he part of that team
0


tsbains64 added 08:46 - Apr 2

great game-just could not get the final goal Impressed with the signings that Ramsey/Ferdinand have made It bodes well for 2016-17 Great crowd and the Boro fans contributed to a fantastic Friday night feast of great goals,tackles and saves
0


francisbowles added 12:00 - Apr 3

Good game but unfortunately our defence, Smithies and perhaps Perch excepted, fell apart. We really missed Clint Hill. It highlights the concern of a lack of a dominant cb and the need to find one for next season and then to find the best partner for him. Change is also desirable in both full back positions. Both have done a decent job recently but were exposed and found wanting here, although in Perch's case the absolute lack of tactical nous in front of him was constantly apparent.

I would be interested, as Clive has suggested to see Perch in the Henry role, for at least a couple of games before the end of the season, as Robinson seems to be ready to play some part at lb.

Also hope to see Washington get a start while his confidence is high, maybe move Hoilett to the right and play CW on the left.
0


Big_T added 18:52 - Apr 3

Wanyama was shown up by a good midfielder today Kante,
0


DPeps added 19:11 - Apr 3

felt we should've got something out of it really. The key difference was the quality of the final ball: Leicester's was generally decent, ours was generally poor - a recurring theme.
I thought Pelle had a bad game overall, although as I say he didn't receive great service. On the plus side, van Dijk was brilliant. I think he has everything that a great CB needs - really hope we can keep him.

As for the two penalty shouts that Ron was complaining about... for me, the ref probably got both right. The only way Simpson could've avoided it was if he had no arms (it would've hit his body anyway), and the ball hit Huth so quick that he couldn't do anything else. I suspect others on here will disagree! I'd be annoyed if either decision was given against us and, tellingly, there wasn't much appealing from the players.
But I did think that Clasie was fouled for their goal - clear push from Morgan
-4


SaintBrock added 19:27 - Apr 3

Absolutely bloody dire! Why is it always us? Whenever there is a choice of which Saints will turn up why is always the clueless, lacklustre one?

Where was the passion, the drive, the energy needed to clinch our European place?

I give up!

Mediocrity is the name of our game. Only Fraser earned any credit today and he alone saved us from humiliation, the rest of the layabouts were already on summer vacation.
0


dirk_doone added 19:30 - Apr 3

Wanyama did an excellent job controlling Mahrez, which, after the initial 15 minute onslaught enabled Saints to take control of the game. If that penalty had been given, we'd have got the draw we deserved.
1


darthvader added 21:34 - Apr 3

In my opinion and only slightly biased. Both handballs were penalties , the huth one he was hanging his hand out to stop the ball . The first one ,(after mane took an age to shoot could've chipped the keeper )Simpson seemed to beat the ball down with his elbow . Their goal Jordy was pushed so out of those big decisions we got nothing? ..same old same old , if we had got something from the ref our own confidence would've grown . They, Leicester, were good and quick ,we couldn't get the fall of the ball and when we did they were on us like a flash .
They seemed to get lucky and we never seen to get any luck story of our season .
Vardy needs a good kicking by someone to bring him down a peg or two , got very arrogant like how dare you tackle me ...tw@t.


5


SanMarco added 21:49 - Apr 3

I don't understand the negativity. Saints deserved at least a point and probably all three. We were the better side, had a clear penalty/red card not given and then conceded a goal that was a foul.

I want Leicester to win the league and I don't think they have been lucky over the season but they were lucky today, but then all champions have their luck - I just wish it hadn't have come against us!
1


Alehouse added 07:50 - Apr 4

I agree that we were unlucky to come away with nothing. However, we showed a lack of tactical awareness and flexibility. It was obvious from early on that Morgan and Huth were able to dominate Pelle in the air, yet we continued to pump in hopeful crosses often from only just inside the half way line. We should have had Mane on Huth's shoulder throughout. The only way through that defence was on the deck as was proved in the first half.
4


Addinall added 15:16 - Apr 6

A poor game.A fair result.Neither side deserved to win.
0


SaintBrock added 19:06 - Apr 9

Scrappy, sloppy disjointed affair even 'though a win's a win but the overall impression was of a bunch of individuals kicking a ball about at end of term rather than a cohesive, united team pushing for a top six finish - to me anyway. We never looked like losing but were not all that convincing in victory. No wonder Ron was berating his players left right and centre. Is he losing the dressing room? I hope not but not very many happy bunnies as they left the field having made hard work of what should have been a stroll in the park.
1


Geoff78 added 19:34 - Apr 9

Dreary game. I knew I was tired but could barely keep eyes open in first half and then planes heading in to Heathrow were more interesting than R's woeful passing. Seemed fitting that the goal seemed to be a mis-hit cross.

Then for 15 minutes at beginning of second half we stepped up half a gear. Chery had a shot heading for the top right corner of the goal well saved and Phillips was put clean through but predictably shot straight at the keeper. Then Charlton scored (should Hall/Kpekewa have closed down?) and they were the better team. We defended deeper and deeper and could easily have conceded again, but for a great one-on-one save by Smithies. Then a moment of brilliance completely out of keeping with the surrounding dross and we won. Didn't deserve it and felt sorry for Charlton who had fought hard in the second half.

Charlton are entitled to be rubbish - they're bottom of the table. We had no excuse.
0


sidsaint added 20:58 - Apr 9

Very poor Newcastle side. RK seemed to treat the second half as a training session by encouraging the team to try new moves. He seemed very annoyed when the players did not respond by leaving gaps in defence or not capitalising on an attacking move. Good to see Jay Rod back and almost scoring. Goals well taken but should have been more as we were not put under pressure by a Newcastle team that lacked confidence any had few ideas.
2


IWOZTHERE added 22:02 - Apr 9

It's not a world-changing result but they did what they needed to do so well done. Why is it though, that we struggle to convert so much pressure into goals. So many crosses, so little end product. It's happened several times this season and cost us points against better teams. More imagination please Ron!
4


TimSaint added 22:40 - Apr 9

A nice win that we all would have taken before hand, but oh what could have been. Scoring the early goal was great in that it ensured that we pretty much had the game won already, but it meant that from then on, we lacked urgency, directness and a ruthless cutting edge.

Having Long back made a difference to our attacking play that was sadly missing at Leicester last weekend - and when Long was removed on the hour. Bringing him in as a straight swap for Davis worked perfectly.

It was disappointing that we didn't convert our total first half dominance into more goals. There was really another 8-0 on the cards, had we had the attitude and confidence, but too often it was apparent that the players thought they had done enough and didn't push on. Goal difference could play a part at the end of the season, so I'm surprised we didn't go for more goals.

Everyone played reasonably well, but the opposition weren't up to much. Maybe that was down to us though. On paper the Geordies have not a bad team, but their marquee signings of Shelvey, Wijnaldum and Mitrovic were truely awful, and their defending was even worse.

Shane ran his arse off as usual and created plenty of options going forward with his runs. Glad he is back. Mane did well for most of the game and works quite well with Marina down the right. He put a few decent slide rule passes in to Mane which I didn't know he was capable of, but still looks a bit suspect at the back. Vic did well and VvD was awesome as always. Great to see JayRod back and gives us even more attacking options.

There should now be some real competition for places for the run in and hopefully we can get 10 points or more - which will mean we have a chance of 6th place if other results go our way. Hopefully St Marys will sell out for the final games and the atmosphere improves on today (despite there being more Saints fans than usual, as the Geordies only brought 1,762).

Believe
4


BoondockSaint added 00:31 - Apr 10

Lucky we were playing Newcastle. Usual loads of opportunities, but don't convert them.
Players going for goal when they should pass to a man in better position-are they being greedy, trying to hit incentives in their contract? Or are they trying too hard to be the hero?
Tadic always better on the left -where he was and then got put here there and everywhere and people wonder why his production went down.
VvD is consistently one of the players of the match, hope other teams don't notice.
4


halftimeorange added 10:20 - Apr 10

I hope Janmaat doesn't get paid. He was plainly disinterested from the off and feigned injury in order to be substituted. As it happens, the whole Newcastle defence could've been subbed after the most dismal performance from an away side I've seen at St Mary's this season. As for Saints - well, we dominated the first half but didn't truly capitalise on our opportunities. When Long went off I think Ronald should have maintained the attacking threat by bringing on Austin (although for some reason he didn't warm up at halftime) rather than the less mobile JWP. We then dozed off and might easily have squandered our lead if Shelvey had had more consistent support. I'll be amazed if the Toon stay up.
1


Bettwsresident added 10:47 - Apr 10

Another good game for Mane and VVD who is Mr consistent. Always at 7 or better in my scoring.

Scrappy game overall, but 3 pt is 3pts. The Toon looked awful, a shell of the side we played at the start of the season, but they tend to when they come down to play us. It will be a different prem without this .
2


Dikki_Gutz added 12:54 - Apr 10

I thought they were excellent first half and some enjoyable football albeit with no opposition. Perhaps if Koeman had got injured during the warm up instead of Austin the second half might have been a bit better to watch. His continual tinkering ruined the shape and of course bringing Ward Prowse on is guaranteed to kill off anything and seemed to demorilise the other players as they have to cover for him all the time.
3


burty added 13:01 - Apr 10

Nice to see the Swansea way of football back.
0


francisbowles added 16:04 - Apr 10

A bright opening evolved into a mainly flat and uninspiring first half. I was wondering whether there would be any boos at ht but then Phillips scored and cheered the place up. A very entertaining but scrappy second 45 followed where several chances were created by both sides. Charlton pressed hard in the closing stages in a desperate need for three points but a combination of poor finishing and Smithies denied them. Then came El Kayate's wonder goal, the one moment of true outfield quality in the game.

Smithies impressive again, and Kayate and Robinson worthy of praise although it's only one goal and one debut performance,so important not too get carried away.
0


Bettwsresident added 07:12 - Apr 17

Tough to watch....We hammered them. Need to go back to shooting school, this happened too much last season. Tadic had his best game for a season and even Yosh looked solid.
4


FatCat added 16:34 - Apr 17

A great day out with The Exiles.
Met a good bunch at the ground and afterwards at the Cem.
A deserved 3-0 win that could have been more but Tuesday v Gillingham beckons.
Blackpool not up to much but what chances they had where dealt with by Dale.
Will be back for next year's Exiles day.
0


Harbour added 17:37 - Apr 17

First time visit to Cardiff boring first half, second half we pushed on but no real chances other than ingrams making a couple of fine saves,,,our supporters got more enjoyment watching the locals making idiots of themselves than anything off the pitch,,,,the ground lacked atmosphere and Cardiff were very poor for a side trying to get in the top 6 good point for the rest in a dire match

0


IWOZTHERE added 20:54 - Apr 17

Still say it's not the strikers, like at home we just can't seem to break down a massed defence when we dominate. Final ball hurried resulting in few clearcut chances. That aside, I thought it was our most commanding performance of the season for what it's worth.
0


SaintBrock added 19:17 - Apr 23

Very one sided affair, we should have scored a lot more goals and we became very casual and sloppy at the back. Need to get our act together fast in training this week or Man C will carve us to pieces. Nice win 'though and clearly we were a class above although as Villa are now a championship side this is hardly surprising.

Tadic and others keep saying we must improve and sort out some of our lapses in attack and defence but overall we are still erratic and wasteful so one wonders whether this is how it will always be with this group of players. Still, they look as 'though they enjoy playing together and some serious bonding is taking place in the squad so keep them all here for next season and we might just surprise even ourselves.
2


Geoff78 added 19:49 - Apr 23

At least Kpekawa got some game time, understandably nervous but signs of growing confidence towards the end. Ingram looked sound, Faulin at least tried and made a few tackles. Chery my MoM, for buzzing around and looking livelier than most even though he seemed to have mislaid his shooting boots. Polter's enthusiasm unable to conceal a dreadful first touch and Luongo doesn't seem physically strong enough for the middle of midfield, but did manage a few creative moments. Unfortunately although there were spells when we put a few passes together, we gave it away as much as any game this season. If you weren't there you didn't miss much.
0


Geoff78 added 21:15 - Apr 23

At least Kpekawa got some game time, understandably nervous but signs of growing confidence towards the end. Ingram looked sound, Faulin at least tried and made a few tackles. Chery my MoM, for buzzing around and looking livelier than most even though he seemed to have mislaid his shooting boots. Polter's enthusiasm unable to conceal a dreadful first touch and Luongo doesn't seem physically strong enough for the middle of midfield, but did manage a few creative moments. Unfortunately although there were spells when we put a few passes together, we gave it away as much as any game this season. If you weren't there you didn't miss much.
0


Bettwsresident added 23:09 - Apr 23

I agree completely with Saintbrock.

Long and Tadic paired up really well and showed great understanding. They could/should have had another 4 between them. Davis had a good game without standing out (as always) and I thought our full backs were good and they were tested in defence by a Villa side that played well in attack at times. They were woeful in defence and Guzan and the woodwork prevented a cricket score. Good cameo by Mane and nice to see him kiss the badge after scoring.
2


perazi added 03:51 - Apr 24

Good reports Brock and Bett. It was an eerie game to watch with home crowd giving vent to their frustrations - can't be easy for the visiting side in those circumstances. Could easily have been 6 for Saints with the chances created. Interesting that Ron said he took Vic off at H/T because he wasn't happy with the midfield - doesn't bode well for Vic remaining a Saint after the Summer.

Like you Bett I was interested to see Mane celebrate with Pelle after his goal and then kiss the badge; I so hope he plays another season or two for Saints - he makes things happen.
3


tsbains64 added 17:35 - Apr 24

typical end of season fare. Had the opportunities to win this but Ingram had to make some good saves too Lacklustre atmosphere Good to see Cile get a run out and Petrasso looked effective Always impressed with Poulter work rate but has not scored for a while Great to see Ferdinand get a warm welcome and farewell
0


SaintBrock added 20:51 - Apr 24

Well Perazi, you think that it was a political decision, perhaps part of a strategy tweaked his hand to get him to sign up?

Very interesting!
0


SaintBrock added 20:52 - Apr 24

pre-google that was meant to be "to weaken his hand"
0


Geoff78 added 18:24 - Apr 25

At least Kpekawa got some game time, understandably nervous but signs of growing confidence towards the end. Ingram looked sound, Faulin at least tried and made a few tackles. Chery my MoM, for buzzing around and looking livelier than most even though he seemed to have mislaid his shooting boots. Polter's enthusiasm unable to conceal a dreadful first touch and Luongo doesn't seem physically strong enough for the middle of midfield, but did manage a few creative moments. Unfortunately although there were spells when we put a few passes together, we gave it away as much as any game this season. If you weren't there you didn't miss much.
0


Loyal added 02:06 - Apr 28

2,400 swans fans let down by a bunch of lazy can't be arsed big time Charlie's.
0


Bettwsresident added 19:17 - May 1

Great performance..saints were right on it, snapping at Man C, winning the ball again and again. Clear plan to win the ball high up the field and release the pace and they did it brilliantly. Man C's midfield was absent without leave for the whole of the 1st half. Although Dusan supplied 3 assists, he had the time and space to create several more but dallied at the crucial moment and it was only this plus the brilliant Ihaenacho that prevented a repeat of Sunderland last year.

Shane Long was incredible, even better than that performance against Arsenal. Mane took his goals very well and linked up beautifully with Tadic. Romeu and VW were solid and imposing (unlike Classie), defence was solid and VVD, Bertrand and Cuco all looked really good going forward.

Best moment was JWP, clear through with 5 mins to go, desperately looking around for a team mate.. comedy gold!
1


Big_T added 20:36 - May 1

Shane Long was my man of the match top class performance from first to last minute, Mane turned in A very good game against a very poor Man C but you can only beat the team in front of you, Tadic put in one of his best efforts this season.
If Hodgson takes Delph and Sterling to the Euros I will not be watching as they have been awful this year, and they were absent today.
6


Consigliere added 21:24 - May 1

Mane may have deservedly picked up the match ball but I agree with others who say that my man of the match was Shane Long. Not content with harrying the opposition as we were going forward, he was as prepared as ever to sprint back to help out in defence and to recycle the ball when our attacks were repelled. I'm really glad he got at least one goal. His fault, if he has one, is that he can be wayward in front of goal but I think that he sometimes just exhausts himself getting there in the first place and is unable to focus at the critical moment. Special mention too for Tadic, and for VVD and Fonte who were immense in defence. The beauty of this game however was the satisfaction of watching a really good team performance. Each of the goals we scored involved at least three or four players in the build up and each attach from City beaten off demanded concentration from everyone in defence and midfield.

The pundits on MOTD and elsewhere will no doubt attribute the result to an "enfeebled" City side but just look at the talent they had on the field! International players for the most part whose contracts change hands for what can only be described as telephone number amounts of money, yet they backed off every time Saints advanced and for large periods of the game they had every man behind the ball.

As I posted earlier, this was the game we had to win, given Liverpool's error earlier in the day and I am delighted that the men didn't let me down. Happy Monday tomorrow!
2


leighsaint added 22:03 - May 1

Apart from a couple of defensive errors a first class performance. Having watched Swansea beat Liverhampton today why did we sale Jack Cork and buy Classie as his replacement.
2


SanMarco added 00:14 - May 2

4 past Arsenal and 4 past Man City. I agree with those praising Long. I thought Tadic had a good game too. I agree that Clasie too light-weight but Cork is not the answer
0


halftimeorange added 08:42 - May 2

Let's not get carried away. Yes, Saints were by far the better side and I know we were playing against a team of internationals however, many of those guys have not been playing regular first team football for Man City and their staleness showed. Pellegrini also opted to keep his two best players (Kompany and Aguero) away from the risk of injury and that resulted in them having a ponderous defence and a blunted attack. Saints biggest weapon is speed which we have in abundance, with Long and Mane and a number of other fleet-footed individuals but, oh, how I wished for better final passing as the result could well have been a cricket score in our favour. Having said that, Tadic had Zabaleta for toast and put in a season's best and most industrious performance. What a pity he doesn't display his huge talent more often. Clasie, once again, looked lightweight and was brushed off the ball too easily (and ridiculously picked up a booking in midfield committing a professional foul with Saints in no immediate danger) and JWP sadly displayed his extreme lack of pace. What we really need, assuming we don't get rid of anybody, is a nimle, stocky creative midfielder who can take decent corners. If we do that Saints will be a threat to anybody and dominant performances of this magnitude will surely become a regularity.
2


Consigliere added 10:55 - May 2

Halftimeorange makes a very fair point about the City team not having played together much and that we should not get too carried away (which I very much agree with) but as ever in these situations, I looked to see what the other fellers think about it - have a look at the blog section on the Manchester Evening News match report.

The following is one of the more polite contributions:

"No excuses! This team had 11 international players on display,the fans deserve a full refund for match tickets and travelling expenses!wheñ you do leave Manuel please take Bony and Sterling with you.you had the opportunity to cement our C.L.position today and you blew it! You should have walked as soon as the ' guadiola' story broke! You cannot motivate a team of overpaid underperforming Priima Donna's.sterling and bony are two of the worst players I've ever seen in a city shirt for the last 50 years of following them! An utter disgrace!!!"
2


SaintBrock added 12:58 - May 3

I think leighsaint because this was his first PL goal for Swansea
0


tsbains64 added 19:14 - May 5

Burnley had one shot on target and scored Impressed with the teams and the attitude I hope it bodes well but all teams that win games at the end of the season say that! How many of these players will be here next season? I think we are in the same place as last season but with cheaper players
0


Harbour added 17:18 - May 7

Terrible first half reminded me of practice match.city were better team and but for great saves from Matt Ingram they should have been 2 up. Second half better kids did ok like the look of kypekewa who had another good game. Thought Henry and ale did well and lovely finish from Karl for the goal. Should city have had a pen looked like pulled down in the box. At the end looked like Clint saying goodbye and he was a bit emotional I really hope he stays. Great touch to give him outstanding contribution award to the club. Also great from the club to bring back 75-76 players particularly to see Dave Clements wife what a servant to the club Dave was. Also hollins Bullard shanks and Stanley . Great job well done QPR
0


Harbour added 17:19 - May 7

Terrible first half reminded me of practice match.city were better team and but for great saves from Matt Ingram they should have been 2 up. Second half better kids did ok like the look of kypekewa who had another good game. Thought Henry and ale did well and lovely finish from Karl for the goal. Should city have had a pen looked like pulled down in the box. At the end looked like Clint saying goodbye and he was a bit emotional I really hope he stays. Great touch to give him outstanding contribution award to the club. Also great from the club to bring back 75-76 players particularly to see Dave Clements wife what a servant to the club Dave was. Also hollins Gillard shanks and Stanley . Great job well done QPR
0


Dewi1jack added 23:09 - May 7

Mmmmmmmmm. Sweet as
0


BlackCrowe added 07:36 - May 8

Defence very good, midfield overrun, attack toothless.
0


SaintBrock added 16:14 - May 8

The lads dug in and ground out a result, substance over style but who cares.
2


BaselSaint added 16:16 - May 8

Saints dug in well after conceding in the first half, fought hard and showed great spirit particularly in the second half. Substitutions were perfectly timed and well considered, Shane Long hassled and harried the spurs defence to distraction, Davies was determined and very effective and thoroughly deserves his two goals. Everyone put a hell of a shift in. VVD was calm and immense in equal measure and when Pelle and Ward-Prowse were brought on later in the game it took nothing away from a well organised and resolute Saints side. Koeman clearly has exactly what we always said Pochetino lacked and that is the ability to read a game and make the right ajustments in the heat of the moment.
5


perazi added 22:51 - May 8

Great result - Saints rode their luck in the first 30 minutes, but the last hour brought determined and organised defence and decisive counter attack. Impressive from Davo, Long, VVD, Bertrand and Mane. Thought Romeu was the telling sub on the hour; really tightened up the midfield. Such a satisfying win; maybe not as electrifying as the win at Stamford Bridge back in October, the 4-0 v Arsenal in January or last weeks frolic v Man City but stuffing Spurs on their own patch was just memorable.
5


Bettwsresident added 23:23 - May 8

WAHEY! Athletico....Leicester....Saints. Epic defense, potent countering, superb team performance and Davis and VVD were magnificent with special mentions for Fonte, Romeu, Bertrand and Big Vic. Sadio was on it and should have had a pen

The difference in our full backs was stark! Bertrand was almost faultless, Cuco a liability.
1


SaintGeorge added 08:13 - May 9

I was watching it on a stream in the kitchen while the missus was reading outside - a book about art. Immediately before our first goal she goes "love, do you know what Lyrical Abstractionism is?" and I went YES! FCKING YES! AAAAH YEESSSSSSS GET IN!!!!!!

Imagine her disappointment when my answer wasn't equal to the billing she thought i'd given it.

Anyway - that was the most satisfying result of the season, bar none.
0


TimSaint added 11:35 - May 9

Get in there !! Superb win

Yes we rode our luck a little at times, but then, so did Spurs.

Everyone played their part, from FF with a couple of great saves despite his error for the opener, to the rock that is VvD, to 2 goals from the unlikeliest of sources and to the superb harrassing and running of Long.

Could have had a penalty too, but we only get 1 in 6 or 7 of our definite pens and it is only Spurs who get them at the lane.

Loved it when the crowd were turning towards the end and were booing like skates. Their fans are really horrible and think their are supreme and have the right to win every game. For that reason alone, it was the most satisfying result of the season - closely followed bythe come back v Liverpool !!
2


aceofthebase added 17:05 - May 15

A fine season, a fine finish.
2


codge added 17:38 - May 15

Well done Saints, thank you for a great season, so proud to have supported you for nearly 60 years.Hope we can keep all on board but the Vultures will be circling and try to disable us once more.Can't wait to see what comes up for us next, COYR.
2


codge added 17:38 - May 15

Well done Saints, thank you for a great season, so proud to have supported you for nearly 60 years.Hope we can keep all on board but the Vultures will be circling and try to disable us once more.Can't wait to see what comes up for us next, COYR.
0


codge added 17:38 - May 15

Well done Saints, thank you for a great season, so proud to have supported you for nearly 60 years.Hope we can keep all on board but the Vultures will be circling and try to disable us once more.Can't wait to see what comes up for us next, COYR.
0


SaintBrock added 20:10 - May 15

Isn't it amazing when we can play as badly and still win 4-1. We have to thank Fraser today for keeping us in it at times. Taking off Romeu was a tactical disaster leaving the mid-field wide open, with better finishing Palace would have ruined our party.

Still it's end of term we've secured a place in Europe, finished in our highest ever PL position with our highest ever points tally - not bad, not bad at all. Well done everyone at the Club.

Now Les, Ron has done his bit your turn to do yours get Vic & Sadio on long contracts now!
3


uaesaint added 06:28 - May 16

Get RK on new contract .... Fantastic season think just 3 points away from champ l place
2


forallthesaints added 11:22 - May 16

Eventually a great finish to a great season. But the first half was a throw-back to the jittery goal-shy Saints of previous years. Palace stifled everything with Speroni time-wasting in the first minute but also looked threatening in attack on the few occasions they moved forward. And some of the passing was wayward, to say the least. So many times in the first half, passes were hugely overhit. Forster made a couple of great saves and it was good to see so many defenders dive in and make brave blocks throughout the game. Even the crowd was a bit quiet in the 20 minutes before the first goal.

That was a huge relief and Saints started the second half playing much better and, although there were a few nerves when Puncheon scored, it was only really a matter of time before we scored another, and another.

I thought Jason Puncheon had a great game yesterday - just a shame we had to wait for him to be playing for Palace before having his best ever game at St Mary's.

But all the criticisms above are mild when you think of what a fantastic season this has been for Saints. The quality of play, the togetherness of the squad and management, the atmosphere home and away and some brilliant wins against the so-called top six. Being at White Hart Lane was a huge highlight, the Liverpool comeback, beating Chelsea at their place, likewise Manure.

Hopefully the new long-term contracts signed by Fraser, Virgil and Prowsey will demonstrate clearly how ambitious Saints are for the future and encourage one or two of the others to follow suit.

Looking forward to Jay-Rod coming back stronger next season and one or two new faces coming in to add to the squad before we embark on the European tour of 2016/17.

One final word... the refereeing has been utter shite all season and something really has to be done. Soare getting Pelle booked yesterday was a classic example of refs being so easily conned - and at first I think he was going to book Mane for a dive before the linesman changed his mind and he gave the pen.
1


Yorkshire_Dale added 12:38 - Aug 7

Good match with 2 decent teams both going for the win......individual(s) mistakes from Dale cost us the point.

Sad to see the attendance has gone down for 3rd year running.
0


MelakaRanger added 15:16 - Aug 7

Finally we have a "team" of players playing as a "team". Most everyone played well but Gladwin looked out of depth and appeared a very weak link. Not sure if we can afford this weak link to become a regular first pick
1


geraldo added 23:48 - Aug 7

we all know what went wrong - Jim McN is not a full back ( no pace) and Joe Bunney was a waste of time,However Kh seems satisfied with a home defeat after being ahead twice and has come up with a solution - bring back his old favourite Joe Thomson. Bizarre!!
0


tsbains64 added 08:55 - Aug 8

for a lot oif the game not much between these two teams But Caulker and Massimo were a class apart JFH has them working as a unit and the spirit looks good Dont think this was a true 3 niler as Leeds had opportunity to get back into the game but what fine shot from Poulter to finish it off Good performances from Bidwell and the new lad Olly . Cousins also made a positive contribution Great to see Green get a good reception but boy does his kicking looking poor ! Always impressed with the Leeds fans- got to say they are vocal and committed lot and added to the great atmosphere at LR-Great way to kick off the season
0


daveB added 10:08 - Aug 8

It was a wonderful start to the season. My misses summed it up well, she has been a semi regular the last few years after being a season ticket holder for a decade but not really enjoyed it. She said yesterday it felt like watching QPR again, a team all giving it their best, they made mistakes and were far from perfect but couldn’t fault any of them. She said she’s not enjoyed a game as much as that at QPR since Holloway was manager, although she did only make one game in the Warnock promotion season which we managed to lose.

I thought we were excellent yesterday. A few players really stood out.
Bidwell looked excellent at left back, really liked the look of him. Caulker looks so much stronger and fitter than he did in his last spell with us. I’m sure he’ll leave this month but good to see him putting him career back on track.

Luongo was man of the match for me, he looked fitter and stronger than last season and got back to cut out several counter attacks with very well timed tackles, one of them lead to the second goal.

Polter as well was superb leading the line, his goal was a different class.

A good debut as well for Shodipo who looked good on the left for us and Cousins looked decent when he came on as well.

Only negative was the abuse Gladwin got when he failed to track his man and had a poor five minutes. The stick he got from the crowd was well over the top and it’s no wonder he struggles with confidence. Saying that after a bright start he faded and looked shattered by half time.

Rob Green was hilarious, his piss poor kicking which regularly failed to hit the half way line brought great joy, perhaps people outside QPR may now realise it wasn’t just due to his contract that he was dropped and kept out of the side last season.

Great start, I still don’t expect much more than mid table but was great to that beautiful badge and kit, it all felt like QPR again.
0


Dorse added 10:32 - Aug 8

Great start to the season. The side looked like it was well-drilled, fit and had a clear plan. Compare that to some of the dreck we've seen from luminaries such as Hughes or Redknapp over the years and it gives a real sense of a corner turned.

Particular mentions go to Shodipo, who looked an absolute natural on his league debut, Mass, who played like a man possessed and Polter, who led the line brilliantly throughout.

And that defence...? They look like they'd tackle a concrete effigy of King Kong if it was on-side.

Loving my Monday.
0


daveB added 23:57 - Aug 11

I’ve seen some pretty poor cup displays in recent years but this wasn’t one of them, I found the game quite entertaining. We were not at our best but still showed signs of real promise

I thought Swindon were a very decent side, played some really nice football always looking to pass from the back and even when they were losing they didn’t panic. They were a lot better than many championship sides I’ve seen in the last year.

After we got the 1st goal they were by far the better team for the last 25 minutes and had some great chances to finish us off but we did well to survive that and we then dominated extra time. The second equaliser came when we had control of the ball and they looked shattered but Henry went for a ridiculous long range shot which was blocked and they broke and scored.

Agains Leeds the crowd gave Gladwin a lot of stick for not getting across to his man but that seems to be a tactic. Several times last night they had men over out wider and when the wide players went across they were being screamed at by Onouha in particular to get more narrow. Several times they took advantage and got round the outside of us. I’m guessing we are trying to be hard to break through in the middle but better teams would have punished us.

I thought Washington was very poor in the first half, he was slow to react to several very good chances which seemed to pass him by and he lost the ball far too often. He looked a lot more of a threat when he went wide in the second half but the goal will hopefully do him some good. He can't keep living off the can't play on his own up front excuse.

Of the new players Cousins looked a very good player, not seen a player like him for a long time at QPR with so much energy in midfield. He did give away a lot of daft fouls but that’s something which can be improved. Lynch had an average game and seemed to be struggling with injury for most of it. Furlong was good at right back, I think he’s put himself in with a chance of being around the squad this season. Shodipo again looked bright but very raw. Kpewka didn’t look comfortable at centre half and I think he’ll end up leaving on loan this season.

Ingrham had a very good game in goal, made one mess up when he got caught on the ball but made several very good saves and was brilliant in the shoot out.

The new French winger Yenni looked a very decent player, a lot of pace and strength on the right. He went close with a screamer from distance and created a few very decent chances, can also take a good corner which we’ll soon knock out of him.

One positive was the way every member of the team celebrated the goals all making a point of celebrating as a team.

I don’t think I’d ever seen us win a penalty shoot out before as well so that was a real bonus and something many people missed as a lot assumed the game was over at 90 minutes and went home. One bloke stood shouting how crap we were before shouting at his mate to leave who pointed out it was extra time so he sat down feeling and looking a bit daft.

We’ve a lot of flaws in the team and I think that will be exposed at times this season but it’s a hungry group of players giving their all for each other and the shirt which was great to see.
1


Phil_S added 17:27 - Aug 13

Montero made the difference for me when he came on - makes no sense to have him on the bench he should be a certain starter next week. Llorente offered us something up front and he was unlucky not to score but well done Fer for being in the right place to follow up . Great start to the season and one that we should now build on
1


SaintBrock added 20:26 - Aug 13

Two points lost through a systems failure. Pull out!
4


vanmans added 20:28 - Aug 13

Why don't we sell JWP? He is never going to be any good in the prem. To lightweight, to slow and cant tackle.
4


rjh added 20:55 - Aug 13

Bloody big hole in the middle of the diamond. We will get tortured by decent side. Have to reserve judgement until Fonte and Bertrand back. JWP just not up to it. Must buy a striker, so miss Pelle in games like this.
3


no7saint added 00:07 - Aug 14

On the plus side Hojbjerg looks a great buy, and Redmond and Pied both had good games. Tadic is also looking sharp but we lacked any cutting edge first half. With Fonte and Bertrand back we'll go again.
3


leighsaint added 00:45 - Aug 14

Agree with all the pessimissim but it's still are first game Jayrod never got on the park and CA had very few minuets let us hope that in the future we can do much, much, better
0


aceofthebase added 08:34 - Aug 14

It wasn't the system that let us down it was the old problem of a right back Soares who can't defend and cost us a goal. He made countless errors and should not have started. Sell him quickly!
Why didn't hojbjerk start? He has been excellent in pre season training. Was Fonte not playing because soon he will not be a Saint?
1


paddypants added 14:49 - Aug 14

Losing the physical presence and height of Pelle and Wanyama is one thing, but witout Fonte, Bertannd, even Martina,and Cedric being knee high to a grasshopper , a big team like Watford will always cause problems.
I hope it,s not SnowWhite at The Mayflower at Xmas, or 7 of them might be missing
2


SaintGeorge added 16:07 - Aug 14

First half I really thought the four-year war of attrition on our defence and defensive midfiled was having an effect at last - every Watford player looked a foot taller, a yard faster and twice as wide. It was really scarey, and Capoue was immense - sign the fcker now!

As it turned out we grew into the game and looked competent and even quite tasty in the second half. I thought Tadic was outstanding - this could be his season. Agree with Nick's report that Austin should have come on a lot earlier and that we HAVE to replace Yosh ASAP. Pied looked great.

ON that performance I can't see 5th place this year yet, but we definitely won't go down :oD
0


SaintGeorge added 16:19 - Aug 14

First half I really thought the four-year war of attrition on our defence and defensive midfiled was having an effect at last - every Watford player looked a foot taller, a yard faster and twice as wide. It was really scarey, and Capoue was immense - sign the fcker now!

As it turned out we grew into the game and looked competent and even quite tasty in the second half. I thought Tadic was outstanding - this could be his season. Agree with Nick's report that Austin should have come on a lot earlier and that we HAVE to replace Yosh ASAP. Pied looked great.

ON that performance I can't see 5th place this year yet, but we definitely won't go down :oD
0


aceofthebase added 00:06 - Aug 20

A great pity that Romeu had to be substituted so early on. The first goal was caused by Fonte, who was marking Zlat, being distracted by the advancing Pogba with only Clasie to challenge him. The second goal was a neddless clumsy foul by Clasie.
Apart from that the defense had a good solid feel about it and when we attacked we put Man u under some pressure but no-one looks like putting the ball in the net. It's going to be a tough season but we are not that bad a team and I'm sure we will have a few victories to celebrate
2


Cjay80 added 00:36 - Aug 20

I thought we played well generally but were let down by some sloppy passing, Tadic had a very off game, Fonte looked slow, VVD was solid, we created chances but lacked clinical finishing. It was a good effort but an obvious gulf in quality despite Man U never looking to be on top form
0


AmericanSaint added 08:50 - Aug 20

Aceofthe base is right - I think Romeu would have made a more physical midfield. I like Clasie, but he is more of a precision player than a blunt force player, which was needed last night against Pogba. Saints need to take their opportunities. I think JayRod is a more pure goal scorer than Shane and should be given a chance. We didnt play poorly, but had to really chase the game after the penalty and it changed out gameplan. On to the next one.
1


Bettwsresident added 09:03 - Aug 20

ugg, I take back a previous post. Classie is lightweight and his presence in the team affects others performances. Puel should have seen we were playing a team of giants and having Classie and Soares (who had a good game) was a high risk.

I thought we passed the ball really well and all of the team except Redmond had a good or decent game. There wasn't an obvious gulf between the sides.

We still need a striker who can hit the target. It has been a problem for a few years and was apparent again last night.
1


sidsaint added 10:05 - Aug 20

We played ok at times but glaringly obvious we need one or maybe 2 strikers that will give us the goals we miss from Mane and Pelle.
2


Dikki_Gutz added 11:41 - Aug 20

Clasie nearly as bad as JWP, Davis totally pointless near their goal as usual, Forster can't save a shot as usual. Targett tried, bless him, but should be replaced forthwith and loaned out. Need midfielders and a goalie pronto or positions 14-20 beckon for certain. Hodge/VVD/Tadic good, Redmond will be ok.
-2


Harbour added 19:37 - Aug 20

Well was not expecting that performance....PNE closed us down and worked hard we seemed a bit lacking in ideas. At the back Smithies seemed unsure punching when in the past he caught and the bad punch led to the first goal.On the positives Elkarty made a difference when he came on giving us much needed width an area we are clearly lacking.The wind did not help but PNE had to deal with that as well and coped better.The hitting it up to Seb does seem to be working and Preston pretty much had him under wraps. Bad day at the office hopefully better next week.
0


Flashberryjack added 20:41 - Aug 20

Hull were Sh*t we were even worse.
1


Gowerjack added 20:54 - Aug 20

Bright in the first half.

Poor in the second.

Need a new central defender and someone to lead us.
0


tsbains64 added 09:47 - Aug 22

completely disjointed performance Sadly the coaches could not react to the lack of pressure on PNE and did not have a viable plan B Still good performances from Caulker,Nedum and Chery. Also sad to see fickle fans turn on the team so quickly
0


halftimeorange added 18:55 - Aug 27

I groaned inwardly when I saw that Lee Mason was the referee. He generally affects every match he officiates at and today was no exception, showing how inconsistent he is throughout the game but Saints didn't deserve to win. After a bright start both Hojbjerg and Romeu faded and we were forced back to defend deeper and deeper. Targett was himself targetted by Sunderland as the weak link and too often he was caught ball-watching or out of position. His reluctance to use his right foot or beat an opponent going forward makes me doubt if he is Premier League class. Most of our attacks were started or spoiled by Steven Davis who was, in turn brilliant, then wasteful. Cedric tried to make dummy runs which nobody saw and we did not have anybody carving out chances. Charlie Austin looked lively but was too slow and won nothing in the air. Jay Rodriguez late cameo may keep him at St Marys but we desperately need a commanding midfielder with an eye for a pass and, unless Jay can do it, a big, tough centre forward. Charlie is a poacher. Redmond ran around a lot but was wasteful and Shane needs through balls to run onto. No sign of any pattern yet and we'll certainly be down among the dead men for a few weeks whilst coming to terms with this new system.
5


saintandy11 added 21:05 - Aug 27

The players are clearly confused with this new system and having no width makes us easy to defend against. We are in for a long season if we stick with this system.
5


vanmans added 21:06 - Aug 27

Total Crap. Need to Buy, Buy, Buy.
3


vanmans added 21:06 - Aug 27

Total Crap. Need to Buy, Buy, Buy.
2


SaintBrock added 21:23 - Aug 27

All is not well aboard HMS Saints, seems to have been torpedoed below the water line. Will the Captain go down with his ship?
2


aceofthebase added 21:54 - Aug 27

I don't think the players understand the system, and neither do I! At times they appeared to be totally disorganised and questioning each others performance. I do not think that we have right players to play this diamond, if that is the correct way to play
We must not let Jay Rod go. We must not let Martina go.
We need two centre backs as I fear Fonte will soon be off his A game.
Jay Rod is the player we must try to get back into the team as the star man. He was England quality, whatever that means and has more potential than Austin
I hear many amongst the crowd saying Puel must go, it's a cheapskate appointment. It's a bit early for that he needs at least half a dozen games to educate the players or educate himself on our best method of playing.
Today wasn't all bad but we have to win games. Ugly wins are better than no wins
2


simmo400 added 22:31 - Aug 27

Saints only played 20mins in this game. 10 mins at the start and 10 at the end. The rest was painful to watch.
2


dirk_doone added 12:09 - Aug 28

Positive from yesterday: Steven Davis played well. However, I wonder whether he just played the same as he did last season, when he was not one of our better players but the standard of the team around him has plumetted, making him stand out, as we have gone from being a top six team to a bottom six one.
0


SaintMaw added 17:39 - Aug 28

I think the diamond isn't working. I'm willing to give it one more go just to see how Bertrand will do. Fonte is becoming reckless. Maybe cause he's waiting for the contract issue to settle down. Cedric's head was in it and I think that is because of the new contract but, he need to up his game. Token did better. I like our starting midfield. Maybe we need a super versatile defensive player like Daley Blind but all is well. Noticed how this game, we were more direct and I think that wasn't a great idea. I think we need to be more patient in our build up play. Our type of play requires really creative players and a finisher so Boufal will be a welcome addition. If the 4-4-2 diamond doest work anymore we need to use 4-3-3 with a false 9 which works for us. I'm not too worried cause we have a lot of games to get the system to tick but I'm confident that once it does we will look like a quality team.
0


SaintBrock added 18:16 - Sep 10

Why did we decide to sit back on a 1-0 lead, no way were they going to hang on to that for 75 minutes? Very poor decision. After that we looked piss poor everywhere, only Romeu and Hojberg coming away from the game with any credit. The lack of competence up front is worrying to say the least, never once did we get beyond their back four and such chances that were made were as much down to luck as design. We seem to be on the same track as Villa last year with a "highly rated" French manager and Ian Black in charge. Bottom 3 does not make good reading but it's where we are and the table never lies, this is all we deserve on performances so far.

My advice to Monsieur Puel, ditch the diamond before the club ditches you it si obvious the players do not like the system and the frustration is clearly growing. It is really time to go back to 4-3-3.
2


dannyblue added 18:30 - Sep 10

We couldn't handle those Conway balls into the box
0


dirk_doone added 18:39 - Sep 10

I thought we played well but were robbed of a draw by the referee, and if we hadn't sold our 2 main goal scorers in the summer, we would have won as we created the better chances. But, without a reliable goal scorer, we are going to get a lot of frustrating results like this.
4


LeTissIwish added 18:50 - Sep 10

Who T F is going to score any goals for us this season? Shane Long couldn't hit a barn door with a cricket bat. So pissed off with Southampton FC and Les Reed and fat Kat in particular. Relegation fight this year without a doubt.
3


aceofthebase added 19:30 - Sep 10

It seems that I watched a different game to the previous commenters. I thought that Saints played well against a strong Arsenal team. The defence looked solid and Arsenal rarely looked like scoring. Long missed two good chances but at least was in the right spot. Romeu looked strong and we didn't seem to be playing the diamond for most of the game.
The dreadful refereeing decision at the end cost us what would have been a well deserved point
3


Ali_Diarea added 20:03 - Sep 10

I would have taken a point before KO so a decent performance albeit we were robbed at the death.

The game does prove what we've known all along though, Long is a fantastic team player but you can't rely on him to score important goals when he gets the chances. Let's hope this doesn't turn out to be the story of our season...
4


BoondockSaint added 02:22 - Sep 11

Agree with all.

Shane Long great work rate, but Arsenal may put in a bid for him as the perfect replacement for Bendtner!

Puel has kept one part of Koeman's system: When trailing by a goal, make sure to take off your creative players and bring in Ward-Prowse to take the corners and then kick them to the other corner.

Yes officials were bad, but we were never going to get the calls against a team higher in the officials pecking order list.

Missed Wanyama and Pelle's muscle against a team that is full of weak and small players.

And off course Mane and Lallana scored to add salt to our wounds. Save it for the tequila, it's going to be a long season! Even if the new bloke we are developing for the Scouse turns out to be any good.




3


stevesensitive added 09:23 - Sep 11

It would be difficult to say that anyone in Saints played badly, some (Van Dijk, Forster, Bertrand especially) played very well, but Long does seem to be rushing his shots at the moment. So, we DO have problems in the attack, but our defence is still very strong; but there, ironically, is part of the problem: as was demonstrated in this match (and also in the Sunderland one) referees seem to be determined to interpret the new rules in such a way that they are looking to award penalties for very minor infringements (ask Fonte!). Saints' and Puel's problem is how to maintain a strong very physical defensive style in this new era without conceding penalties: the worst thing would be if our players become so 'worried' about conceding that they will not be able to defend as well as they do, it's a bit of a 'Catch 22' situation that certainly doesn't seem to be doing Saints any favours at the moment!
0


tsbains64 added 09:59 - Sep 11

Had the opportunities to win but we just lacked the finishing touch Cherys goal was sublime but impressed with the Balckburn goal as well Not sure about Sylla could have won it f us but some of his passing was poor .Nedm was strong at the back and the return of Hall was welcomed Where were Sandro and Caulker? A developing team but need to win more against lower table teams Great to see Lee Cook get a warm and appreciative welcome at half time
0


tsbains64 added 09:59 - Sep 11

Had the opportunities to win but we just lacked the finishing touch Cherys goal was sublime but impressed with the Balckburn goal as well Not sure about Sylla could have won it f us but some of his passing was poor .Nedm was strong at the back and the return of Hall was welcomed Where were Sandro and Caulker? A developing team but need to win more against lower table teams Great to see Lee Cook get a warm and appreciative welcome at half time
0


simmo400 added 11:47 - Sep 11

Deserved a draw. I'm
0


simmo400 added 11:48 - Sep 11

Deserved a draw. I'm
0


MauriceDear51 added 15:18 - Sep 11

Bit sad really must do better..4/10....see me!
0


SaintGeorge added 18:11 - Sep 11

yeah yeah yeah
if you can't score the goals you're gonna get beat innit

we was only robbed cos we didn't score

2


Jesus_02 added 17:54 - Sep 13

not sure how the Ref got 2.6

Mark Halsey's words not mine

"It’s not a penalty for me, Bobby Madley’s gone looking for trouble in the last minute and he’s found it and to add insult to injury he’s booked Fonte for the incident too.

It’s just a really soft penalty to give and Southampton also have every right to feel aggrieved that they weren’t awarded a foul on Shane Long just before the penalty was given. The other issue is Laurent Koscielny was lying on the floor for a long period before the decision, referees aren’t doctors and you could say Madley should have stopped the game to allow Koscielny to receive treatment on the pitch."
0


tsbains64 added 08:56 - Sep 14

Faster,stronger,bigger-Newcastle were outstanding . No one from QPR threw in the towel- we were blown away by a better team
0


Harbour added 12:03 - Sep 14

Well that was hard to watch Newcastle were the better side across the whole pitch every position. Could Jimmy changed tack and put 2 on shelby who ran the show ? If we could have kept it down to 4 they were lucky with a couple of goals but then hit the bar and missed others in truth it could have been 10 in the end. No real good performances from us could see lots of effort team did not give up just completely outclassed will need JFH to try and lift the team reminded me of Swansea and Fulham tonkings
0


awjm added 12:12 - Sep 14

Here's my 2 cents:

I have a different view from most on here. I do not blame one single player for what happened yesterday. I think it all comes down to unity, or lack of. Unity in the sense that our squad is NOT confident and does NOT believe it is good enough. Unity in the sense that they are NOT working together and they do NOT understand each other and their prospective roles. Unity in the sense that QPR has had a virus for a long time and no manager seems to know how to cure it when coming in. Unity in the sense that we either DO NOT have a suitable game plan for each match or we DO NOT have the confidence and collectedness in order to act it out.

I say this because we would have one of the better squads in the league if every player in the team knew what they were doing, knew what their colleagues were doing, had a good game plan that suited each match and had the confidence to act it out. Even looking at the players as they played last night, I could see that they all have ability and they all have the basic knowledge of an individual footballer. The choice of Perch from the outset seemed actually a good one. He was breaking up play and hurtling himself into some aerial challenges. Conor seemed to be chasing down the defence with some real pace. But as the game went on, the true problems showed themselves.

Each member of our defence seemed to have no idea what the other members of the defence were doing (which was actually the problem of the whole team but showed itself most problematically in our defence). It's like we were taken by surprise completely, expecting Newcastle to play like Rochdale. I actually thought Henry showed talent in a thankless job that basically becomes pointless if the rest of the team cannot do their job or provide an open pass for him to send. Henry is not the only one. Several players truly tried, throughout the whole game. Sadly, a number of other players found themselves shellshocked and unwilling after 2 or 3 goals went in and weren't able to take any more responsibility as they had already shat themselves.

I really do not envy JFH's position. Coming to QPR is immensely hard as a manager. That disease I mentioned... it's not bad attitudes in the dressing room. We've dealt with that. It's the fact that, since our first big bucks takeover, we've gone through countless changes every season. We have barely been able to hold on to a matrix of a squad over any season. Each season there's either a new manager or an almost entirely new squad (this season we've started with a manager who is almost brand new to us and a squad that is more consistent than past seasons but still developing and incorporating new signings). Therefore, keeping a solid playing philosophy at the club has been impossible. We do not have an identity. You may get good individuals coming in but no one will truly know what we're doing or meant to be doing. This was even evident in our promotion season with Harry: we were promoted because we had some good good players, regardless of the fact that we never really got going and it being the most boring season I remember. Maybe we really do need 3 or 4 seasons in Championship obscurity before we really turn into a force.

JFH needs to be adapting and dealing with the situation better, though. We need to be more diverse when it comes to formation and tactics, especially when certain players are unavailable. It is unacceptable to play the exact same system in every game and especially unacceptable to have Washington coming into the team, like for like, when Polter is out without changing the system (some argue we shouldn't have that system to begin with). We shouldn't have two holding/defensive midfielders. I don't think Henry and Cousins can be in the team at the same time. Their roles are too similar and we become too negative with both of them on. We have to pick one or the other (it may be controversial but I'd rather keep Henry as he has a cool head and has played well in the past; Cousins hasn't really shown much of anything since after his first appearance). We shouldn't be chopping and changing the back line in every game (we may have no choice over that now, injuries considered). On the other hand, his substitutions have been fairly good in the majority of games.

We miss Luongo. He's not at the top of his game yet but he brings a creativity and gives options further up the park. Our two new Polish recruits could be a solution in the middle as well, bringing more creativity. Why the hell did we tell Faurlin he may not get much first team football this season? We should have told him he'd get as much football as possible if his fitness allowed. I imagine Shodipo was left out because his lack of experience and confidence was feared in the face of such a good opposition. But really we needed him from the get go. Yeni really didn't provide anything apart from a great cross much later.

And so it comes back to the defence, which is an absolute shambles again. All things would improve or have a better chance of improvement if that could be fixed. And this is where JFH has to take responsibility. He needs to get them well drilled and needs to have an established back line that is only changed if there are injuries. He needs to drill the midfield and wide players so that they cover well and he needs to make us more progressive and creative, which will in itself take the heat off the back four by forcing our opposition into defending.

My ideal lineup, regardless of injuries:

Smithies

Perch Onuoha Hall Bidwell

Shodipo Henry Luongo Ngbakoto

Chery Polter

Polter could be swapped in and out with Sylla.

Luongo could be swapped in and out with the two Polish fellows.

Henry could be swapped in and out with Cousins.

The back line... god help us.

Ngbakoto could be interchanged with Khayati. (this is a position we don't have much going for)

We could also try having Polter and Sylla up front with Chery in a more central role.
0


lifer added 02:23 - Sep 15

What a shambles! Okay, Newcastle look like a team set for the Premiership and outclassed us in every department, but 0-6? It was just embarrassing. So what's the answer? Can you blame the players? Not really, if you're not good enough, you're not good enough. They tried, and no one wants to lose 0-6 at home. Can you blame the manager? Well, yes, I suppose you can. He picks the side and calls the style of play. I want to be constructive, so instead of slagging him off, let me suggest a couple of things. Try playing 2 up front (at least at home)...we've played a totally negative 1 up front all season and it patently isn't working. Polter does a reasonable job of making a nuisance of himself, but he doesn't score too many goals. In his absence we have Washington who is a decent enough player, but expecting him to outjump 6 foot plus defenders and hold the ball up is ridiculous, and watching him run about chasing lost causes all night was almost comical. Not until he was joined by Sylla did we look remotely like posing a threat up front. So far I haven't been very impressed by JFH's new signings. Bidwell looks no better than the much maligned Konchesky, Cousins looks slow and unable to pass the ball forward. As for the others we haven't seen enough of them to pass judgement yet, but no one has exactly set Loftus Road alight. Unlike most critics here, I don't have a major problem with the defence and goalkeeper. With a bit more positional nous, they'd be okay. My problem lies with the midfield. Henry and Cousins are both defensive, negative midfielders (though Henry very occasionally shows flashes of creativity), and both give the ball away way too cheaply. N'Gbakoto looks lost, while Chery is really the only player who looks capable of providing any danger. And here is where the problem lies..because the midfield is so negative and slow in the build up, it doesn't supply the lone striker effectively, and because the ball is given away so frequently, the defence is continually under pressure. We are basically inviting other teams to attack us. We desperately need a strategy which results in the ball being up the other end of the pitch more often to give the defence a bit of breathing space. We could try a less negative midfield, play 2 strikers, try to hit teams on the breakaway (none of which we seem able to do at the moment). Anything would be an improvement on last night. So, yes, Newcastle were by far the better team yesterday, but we made it easy for them. Shelvey ran the game, but he was allowed to. If the sad truth is that our players are just no good, then no amount of tactical shift will sort things out, but I'd like to think there's some talent there, and that the answer lies in a different, more positive approach, and that has to come from the manager.
0


AmericanSaint added 17:41 - Sep 18

Good game for Saints but the score should have been 3-0 at least.
2


bigrob68 added 17:45 - Sep 18

thank god we won, Redmond is NOT a striker.
9


dirk_doone added 18:29 - Sep 18

It probably would have been 3-0 if Austin had started. Long and Redmond missed several easy chances. Austin's the only reliable goal scorer we've got. However, he has appeared to be limping towards the end of both games this week so maybe that's why his appearances are limited.

It's good to win 2 games in a week but it is nevertheless looking clear that we shouldn't have sold both Pelle and Mane and not bought a replacement striker. We all knew that both Rodriguez's and Austin's fitness to play 90 minutes regularly for a whole season was doubtful.

Our defence looked as solid as last season in both games this week so that's a positive. A win against Palace will make it 3 in a row and that will be great for team spirit. But, we'll need to buy a striker in Janauary.
5


Ali_Diarea added 19:35 - Sep 18

Agree with all of the above.

What is the betting though that Nick's match review will say "I told you so...we have plenty of strikers...we should all blindly agree with the management and not express concerns for OUR team etc..

My other concern is who will replace Romeu when he is injured/suspended/exhausted? We seem to have only one natural anchorman.
6


aceofthebase added 20:48 - Sep 18

It should have been a comfortable win but Long and Redmonds finishing far too poor. Please someone tell Redmond that if he is going to lean or fall back as he shoots then the ball is going to go high. If he masters that simple skill he could be a striker. Two qualities thata striker needs is 1, to get in the correct goalmouth position and 2 put the ball in the net, well he is nearly there,
I thought that we played good football today, our defense was solid tho Cedric looked vulnerable as soon as a decent winger came on, We destroyed all Swan attacks with ease and we created chances. All round a good performance helped by some good subs.
1


SanMarco added 23:03 - Sep 18

We should have bought that goalscorer. Redmond will get very few and if Austin doesn't stay fit (which he probably won't) then we will continue to struggle. In previous years we would have usually won this far more comfortably. Even so it's good that we are up and running and next opponents Wet Spam are certainly in the wars at the moment...
5


Bettwsresident added 08:44 - Sep 19

Phew...although Redmond cost me a few quid (I bet on 3-0), he did have his best game in a saints shirt. Shooting practice needed please Nathan, preferably speak to Charlie. That was a top notch finish and reminded me of Graziano at his best.
0


Consigliere added 09:41 - Sep 19

At the end of that game, I found myself asking why, since we won, deserved to win and didn't concede any goals, it still felt more like the relief from getting out of the dentist's chair unscathed than a grand day out? Overall, this was an assured team performance, with outstanding contributions from Davis, Romeu and VVD in particular but the weaknesses were there for all to see. Fonte (bless him) is still in danger of giving away a foul or a penalty each time a striker gets near him and he really isn't quick any longer, though his positional play is still excellent. Redmond reminds me of Fabrice Fernandes (younger readers will have to ask their dads) who drove us all crazy with his twisting and turning and then disappointing style of football, poor old Shane Long can't buy a goal at present and Austin (as others have noted) is prone to injury though there is no mistaking his potency.

Nevertheless, the green shoots are there. One goal will make all the difference to Long's confident and Redmond is young enough to learn and can be drilled out of his bad habits. Fonte will gradually bow out with our grateful thanks. Puel will adapt from his silly diamond formation.

We will meet better teams than Swansea for sure, but they were a lot more testing than Sparta Prague and carried a serious goal threat for much of the game. Would I prefer to see a painful one nil win or a glorious defeat? Well the answer to that is obvious!
0


TimSaint added 11:06 - Sep 19

Take a win any day and with our current Prem record, this win was not the best but grearly received.

I think the word frustrated best described the team and the fans.

Too many poor decisions in the opposition box.

Long periods of slow play with lack of drive, pressing and cutting edge. First 10 mins and last 10 mins of the first half were superb - but the bit in between was lacking. We saw how easy it was to cut through the Swansea back line, but play was severely subdued in the lull - similar to the Watford and Sunderland games I suppose. I don't expect high intensity throughout, but in all 3 home games,the opposition were there for the taking and we scored just a solitary goal in each of those games

Awful finishing from ALL of our front men, but thankfully Charlie scored from a chance that was far more difficult than the ones he, Shane and Redmond had previously fluffed.

Goals not only change, but win games. The worry for me is that we are not taking our chances and it is costing us.. We created enough chances in the other home games and to an extent at Man U and Arsenal, but failed to take them. Shane cannot buy a goal, Redmond needs composure and vision, Charlie needs a bit more fitness and the midfield needs to chip in. We cannot keep going on about People and Mane though. They have gone and we need to get on with things - at least until everyone is fit or the Jan window.

Will take a 1-0 win every week and it looks like we are getting better. Just hope that the composure in front of goal returns for Wednesday (for our cup team) and more importantly Sunday - where everyone will be expecting a 4-2 Saints win, if West Ham results are anything to go by !!!
2


perazi added 23:57 - Sep 21

Such a good win and the quality of Saints movement, passing and energy was great to watch, even on a dodgy stream. Very satisfying to see Reed, JWP, Hesketh and Targett starting with each playing well - Hesketh, in particular was exceptional. It's funny, most have been calling for a proper No. 10 for ages and it seems we've had him in the back yard for a while. No thanks to Koeman for cutting off the opportunities of Hesketh and Reed for the best part of two seasons, when both had previously shown they were up to Prem standard. Very good games from Martina, Targett and Yoshida. Enjoyed Long's game too apart from his finishing.
7


TimSaint added 11:15 - Sep 22

A great win from the team and some performances to turn the manager's head perhaps.

Wasn't sure how seriously we would take this competition, but they all seemed more up for it than Palace last night and the result was duly produced.

Excellent performances from the vast majority of the team and maybe Fonte and Clasie will now realise that others are pushing them for their places.

Poor old Long should have had a hatrick but cannot buy a goal. At least he is getting into scoring positions, constantly harassed and was involved in both goals. Shame that Pardew had to question the penalty on TV though, saying Shane has history. No excuse for his team being awful and his bullying tactics for the last 20 mins and their fans (about the same number as Swans brought for a premier league game) deserved more of a performance :-)

Perhaps it was our midget midfield that didn't allow them to play !! We looked the more creative, especially down the right and Martina set up a few good chances. Austin's 4th goal of the week settled the nerves and the kids played at times, some wonderful stuff. The second sealed it and with a few changes we looked composed and created more chances - as Palace finally tried to bully their way back into the game in the last 20 mins.

Benteke was all elbows (anyone else notice how Fonte seems scared to mark him and left him for Yoshi to pick up)and left his mark on a few of our players, as did Cabaye.
Puncheon decided to use his favourite St Mary's cubicle for most of the match !!

A pleasing night's work. Well chuffed for Hesketh scoring - but was hoping for Long to end his barran spell and get on a scoring run. I wonder if any performers tonight will be in contention for Sunday, or perhaps promoted to the bench ?

Good value at £12
Shame about the attendance - was expecting closer to 20,000
Good draw for the next round - but will add to our fixture pile up as it will be the week after out trip to the San Siro - but hey Puel now has faith in the kids and will no doubt use them again to great affect !!





3


tsbains64 added 11:41 - Sep 22

a enjoyable cup match The difference was better passing from the PL team Could have been different if Nasser had picked his spot at 1 nil but alas he didnt Great performance from Ingram -we are lucky to have two great keepers
0


Geoff78 added 12:03 - Sep 22

Much improved and at last some 'pressing' reappeared - where was it against Newcastle?? Thought Kakay and Sylla both showed promise. Hamalainen had a difficult match, often getting little covering support from midfield and facing Ndong who was very dangerous, but the lad still did ok. Didn't deserve some of the abuse I heard.

Can't make up my mind about Cousins. So far has been disappointing in games I've seen but managed 1 goal-line clearance and some good challenges last night. At other times gave ball away too easily.

I know JFH doesn't want to but I'd like to see Sylla and Seb up front and Chery on flanks. TC has been our best player so far this season, although there's precious little competition for that title, and I can see he his most dangerous in a free No 10 role, but maybe the overall shape of the team would be better?

0


Harbour added 16:05 - Sep 22

After the last few awful Home games this was a big improvement sylla Washington and the kids did well in front of a supportive home fans . Much more effort and energy and if Connor had put that header in I think we would have won.Jimmy continued his wait and see approach with the subs usually after we have conceded would like to see us using subs to change a game rather than rescue it...and the subs last night did not work. A bit alarming Seb losing his touch and becoming a bit predictable despite losing an improvement on last few games... Who knows what team will turn up on saturday
0


Geoff78 added 23:20 - Sep 22

Much improved and at last some 'pressing' reappeared - where was it against Newcastle?? Thought Kakay and Sylla both showed promise. Hamalainen had a difficult match, often getting little covering support from midfield and facing Ndong who was very dangerous, but the lad still did ok. Didn't deserve some of the abuse I heard.

Can't make up my mind about Cousins. So far has been disappointing in games I've seen but managed 1 goal-line clearance and some good challenges last night. At other times gave ball away too easily.

I know JFH doesn't want to but I'd like to see Sylla and Seb up front and Chery on flanks. TC has been our best player so far this season, although there's precious little competition for that title, and I can see he his most dangerous in a free No 10 role, but maybe the overall shape of the team would be better?

0


Harbour added 10:03 - Sep 25

Better performance should have won the game second half wszolek was mom for me real threat down the wings won the ball full of energy.
0


ficklefan added 19:14 - Sep 25

I thought the two stand out players were Bartley and Wood, Bartley played his best game so far for us, completely dominated in the air and on the ground, showed great composure on the ball, and generally didn't put a foot wrong, also looks like a proper leader of men, well done Kyle you were immense today lad, and Mr Wood played out of his skin as well, easily his best performance of the season you should probably have grabbed yourself another goal or two but aside from that you were excellent in the way you led the line, well done lad, long may it continue, and finally Mr Cellini if there is any chance of signing Kyle Bartley please do it ASAP before somebody else does this kids a bit special of that I have no doubt.
0


Bettwsresident added 20:03 - Sep 25

Great performance, we ground them down until their fragile confidence completely collapsed, just what you need against a team out of form. A striker like CA who slots in his first chance after not getting a sniff for 40mins is golddust. Long may his form continue.

There were many good perfomances but in particular, VVD was stand out MOM, Betrand looked really good going forward, Cedric also have a good game, Davies was very effective, Hojlberg and Romeu snuffed out the Hammers midfield and Redmond was brilliant, winning the ball back with his pace and playing some really good passes.

Happy days indeed to see Saints playing like this, bring on Happol.
3


TimSaint added 00:42 - Sep 27

The game finally came to life in the last 5-10 mins of the first half - and boy did it come to life. A goal with the first shot of note in the match after both teams seemed content to cancel each other out. Austin with a left footed finish after a neat pass from Tadic set Bertrand down the left wing for a neat cut-back. After the goal, it was like the touch paper was lit. West Ham and their fans went into defeat mode and Saints carved out 3 or 4 other good chances, but it remained 1-0 at the break.

The second half saw Saints attack in numbers, press in numbers and if we lost the ball, Rom or VvD hoovered everything up. Everyone put in a shift, even Fonte improved as the game went on, having earlier had a few panic moments and wayward passes.

The second goal emphasised our performance. We lost the ball, pressed, won it back, Redmond played it to Austin and his neat pass cut out 2 defenders, leaving Tadic one on one. He sold the Keeper superbly and was left with a tap in to an empty net.

Our attacking was pure class and time and time again we hit the Hammers with pace and slick passing. W e should have really added to our goals as Hojbjerg 2, Davis 3, Tadic 2 and Redmond 2 all had excellent chances.

West Ham offered little chance wise, apart from a deflected shot that was cleared off the line and a Payet shot that went just wide. Special mention must also be made to Zaza. The Italian International was an alleged £20-25m target for us. He was woeful and offered little apart from theatrics to try to con penalties, earning a yellow card in the process.

We brought our subs on at good times and they were good decisions. Long replacing Austin was idea as CA was looking tired and Long has bags of energy. Tadic off for JWP was also good, although I though Davis may get pulled. Martina getting a few mins was to run the clock down. Not that that mattered in the end as JWP who had earlier had a shot saved, was on hand to slot home following a break down the left, involving Bert and Redmond - who sent Davis through into the box. His cut back, was aimed at Long, but a deflection set up JWP a treat and it really was game over.

Saints fans delerious and Hammers fans already on the tube .

"We've got more fans than you" rang out and as the players attempted a mistimed hand held salute.

Top day, top performace. Perhaps now the players and fans alike are appreciating the manager's tactics, formations and styles. 4 wins and 4 clean sheets have turned some heads and set us up nicely for 2 difficult games which hopefully will produce positive results with hopefully no jetlag or travel sickness !! :-)
2


Horndeansaint added 10:39 - Sep 27

Excellent summary TimSaint, very much reflects what I saw on the box. I think we all understand now how Puel is setting up our teams as the weeks go by. He is looking to be an extremely intelligent manager and is putting right some of the wrongs from the Koeman era. We have now got to the level whereby if changes are made, we can pretty much put the same player in, just with a different body and name on the shirt. That was something that didn't happen last season as there were to few players being used.
I am sure there will be difficult days ahead but it is noticeable how the naysayers have gone very quiet, particularly the ones who watch from far away. They know who they are!
0


VancouverSaint added 22:33 - Sep 29

Good result considering the home team are strong and physical, unbeaten at new home. Only a few Saints voices (God bless them for their passion) in a partisan crowd. Not our strongest team by far, so it was important to get a point. Some gaffs but on the whole they worked well as a unit. Long seems lost and frustrated. Lots of effort by Tadic and Redmond, Cuco and JWP. Virgil solid as always and Romeu was a mid-field rock.
Need our strongest team for Inter.
Same effort on Sunday and we should get some point(s) at Leicester.
0


uaesaint added 04:09 - Sep 30

We got what we went there for a ....point so in all not a bad result
Longs engine is still there but seamed a bit lost .coco ran lots but needs to know when to cross
Hate to say it but manager is growing on me like the way he realized that jack h was being pushed about
And he not wait till half time to get tadic on
All in all a good game if not just a little boring
But given that we were the visitors and home team not loss at home since moving to new ground
And we are still top of group . With key players rested ready for Sunday
A good result
1


aceofthebase added 18:20 - Sep 30

Pretty low average ratings for a hard faught away point.
0


sidsaint added 19:51 - Sep 30

A good point and great experience especially for the young uns. Worried the trip will take it out of us for the away trip to Leicester.
0


Geoff78 added 17:44 - Oct 1

A match rating of 9 for excitement, but if I was rating the R's defence it would be more like a 2. The team played a lot of decent football and there were some good performances, even in defence, but not much consistency. However they couldn't stop Fulham creating the proverbial hatful of chances.

If Fulham had a decent finisher in their ranks they could have won 6-2, so we were lucky, but we played with spirit, never gave up and even when under pressure in the second half there was some heroic defending. The game changed when Parker went off and Shodipo came on. Wszolek had had a relatively subdued game and Shodipo's energy and pace were just what we needed to shift the balance of play. And his strength in a couple of challenges was impressive for a small and young player.

Overall we have to accept the team need to do much better to close down the opposition further up the field (where was the pressing?) and sort out the defence. But the finish was joyful!!
2


Royboy48 added 18:04 - Oct 1

The football gods were smiling on us today and we are blessed with an outstanding goalkeeper

Despite Lee Masons prodigious attempts to steer the match Fulham's way we still came away with three glorious unlikely points

On another day against a sharper team we would have been done

Henry had one of his best games for us – but was allowed to as Fulham had no recognised midfield destroyer

At times Massimo looked class above any player on the field

I thought that Fulhams substitutions of Parker and Martin were certainly puzzling– Although there is a suggestion that Parker may have been injured

Suddenly, Singapore Speechgate has – for the moment – dropped off the radar

At 18:04 hours this Saturday evening, I am feeling very content ...
1


sidsaint added 22:46 - Oct 2

Good to get a point at Leicester and after an away game in Europe.The rotation system is working. Well done the manager. Austin should have scored in second half but good shot in first that hit the post. Strong midfield made things difficult for Leicester.
-1


tsbains64 added 18:56 - Oct 15

Fantastic crowsd Sadly that was the highlight of this poor disjointed performance
0


tsbains64 added 18:56 - Oct 15

Fantastic crowsd Sadly that was the highlight of this poor disjointed performance
0


Harbour added 09:09 - Oct 16

Very little quality on display from both sides if I am honest reading were the better side in a poor game.both wash and poult had chances to win it but they had a few chances as well . Smithies plated a blinder and my mom. Wlociez goal was well made and taken. Poor defending again from us the the equaliser. JFH went for it at the end but with no real effect.
0


TimSaint added 00:33 - Oct 17

A game of 2 halves in terms of goal scoring, but certainly not in terms of performance.

Total dominance from Saints throughout and only Heaton saving Burnley from another Sunderlandesque mauling. A whopping 34 shots - a Saints best since Opta was formed - showed how on top we were and with a little more luck and clinical finishing, we could and should have been close to double figures.

Charlie at the double and a goal from Redmond that will hopefully give his confidence a boost.

Already 2 full backs down, losing Targett seemed like a fatal blow, but it turned out to be a bit of a blessing in disguise. McQueen is a Left Back who has been converted from a winger, so was more than happy to expose the space down the left wing. He also was well accomplished in defence, as well as showing neat touches and flicks. He grew in confidence as the game wore on and once the other players decided he could be trusted with a pass :-)

Great displays from the usual suspects - as is now expected, but we do still tend to have the odd funny 5 or 10 mins in each half, as we do in every game. I'm sure this is being addressed though and will be rectified shortly.

Good to see Clasie actually complete a full 90, so I guess that means Hojbjerg will get the nod in Milan. JWP only had a small cameo, so he will probably feature at the San Siro as well. I wonder if a few won't travel to Italy - like the Israel trip ?

A great win, should have scored more, but perfect preparation for the Inter game on Thursday.

See you all over there - Can't wait !! :-)


3


sidsaint added 09:45 - Oct 17

Great result to start our 7 game marathon.
0


Geoff78 added 15:12 - Oct 19

Well deserved victory! Sylla looked good - more mobile than Polter (obviously!) and seemed to me that Chery played a more disciplined role not wandering as much and Washington used his strength on the flank and managed to get into the area more regularly than in other recent games when he's played wide. Real stars were Smithies, who kept us in the game as he has done in last 2 outings (superb one-on-one save in second half) and Luongo whose passing is more accurate than most and made a number of good runs through midfield. And of course he supplied the cross for the goal. His runs didn't always pay immediate dividends but did maintain pressure on City midfield and defence. Still worrying how easily we could have conceded, even if doing so would have been unjust.
0


Geoff78 added 22:45 - Oct 20

Well deserved victory! Sylla looked good - more mobile than Polter (obviously!) and seemed to me that Chery played a more disciplined role not wandering as much and Washington used his strength on the flank and managed to get into the area more regularly than in other recent games when he's played wide. Real stars were Smithies, who kept us in the game as he has done in last 2 outings (superb one-on-one save in second half) and Luongo whose passing is more accurate than most and made a number of good runs through midfield. And of course he supplied the cross for the goal. His runs didn't always pay immediate dividends but did maintain pressure on City midfield and defence. Still worrying how easily we could have conceded, even if doing so would have been unjust.
0


sidsaint added 22:04 - Oct 23

Walked away from the Ethiad feeling really good after a well deserved point. Good fighting performances all round and showed no fear against multi million pound team and after an exhausting week. Proud to be a saint.
4


tsbains64 added 06:45 - Oct 29

sadly this is the level that we now play at As they chanted West London is ours, we have declined to a poor level Players tried but we are just not good enough Overall a good match despite the result Great voice form the R block but West London is no longer ours!
0


MelakaRanger added 10:25 - Oct 29

We played as if we were a lower level league 2 side

In fact this team playing as they have recently would struggle in league 2
0


Geoff78 added 19:26 - Oct 29

Oh dear! Impossible to avoid the conclusion we were rubbish. Only small glimmer of hope was Wszolek who must have delivered at least half a dozen decent crosses in his short time on the pitch. Why can't Onuoha and Caulker defend like a unit????
0


Bettwsresident added 19:47 - Oct 30

I think we have just seen the champions...no european football, costa and Hazard up front and a seriously good defence.

Saints played well but much like the last 4 teams chelsea have played we couldn't get through, Davies was superb, Austin worked so hard and almost had his goal, but overall we came a justifiable 2nd and that wasn't helped by OR and VVD having poor games by their high standards. No fault to Forster on either goal. 1st he was braced to save and it was rifled through his legs, 2nd was unsaveable (unless your name is Heaton!)

I thought the ref was really good.
0


WestSussexSaint added 07:10 - Nov 4

Great game against an ill disciplined Inter team and a very poor ref who was intimidated by the Italian side. A whole team performance but shout outs go to VVD, Yoshida, JWP and Young Sam McQueen in particular.
0


sidsaint added 21:00 - Nov 4

Makes up for the bad luck in Milan. Left back no longer a problem. Sam has been a revelation.
0


vanmans added 18:23 - Nov 6

Another inept performance. We should have been at least 3-0 up at half time against the worst team we have played this season. Hull are in the bottom three because they are crap and if we cant beat teams like that God help us. Why oh Why didn't we By any Strikers in the summer we all new we needed some. Looks like we are going to struggle until the January transfer window.
7


halftimeorange added 19:17 - Nov 6

Anyone who saw this match should feel ashamed at how casual Saints were. Having been gifted an early goal we strolled about as though it was a training match. We learned three things. Ryan Bertrand isn't fully fit and his limited mobility was exposed meaning he was bossed by Snodgrass as soon as Snodgrass came on. Jordy Clasie continued to give the ball away and, although he made a couple of exploitative forward runs, he really isn't EPL class. As for Nathan Redmond, playing him is a waste of time. His all round performance was woeful - knocked or falling over, picking the wrong pass, being greedy - it was incredibly poor. Believe me, Hull were rubbish. Saints handed them the points. Disgraceful.
4


SaintBrock added 20:32 - Nov 6

How can we be surprised really with such a lightweight attack? Scoring goals has been our achilles heel all season which is barely acceptable if the defence do their job and keep a clean sheet but they were unbelievably sloppy today and both goals were due to alarming errors.

As direct comparisons Chelsea have Hazard & Costa, we have Redmond & Austin but defensively we are at about on a par.

Of late, there have been mutterings on the terraces about Forster's lack of reactions and mobility and whether he is good enough. Until now I have refused to see it that way but after today's inept display it is easy to see what lies behind this unrest. Today raised real concerns for me. It seems that any shot on our goal ends up in the back of our net whereas any shots on opponents goals by us are usually saved spectacularly whether it be by Heaton, Marshall, Pickford - you name them.

He certainly cannot command his own 6 yard box let alone the 18 yard box and if he relies on staying on his line then how does he expect to save shots coming at him from close range at 70 or 80 mph?

6


DPeps added 20:49 - Nov 6

Ok, so things aren't disastrous - we beat Inter a few days ago!
But there have been a few games this season already where our lack of quality in the final third has been exposed, and this game was one of those. It's becoming a theme now, even in games we've won.
Hopefully Boufal can add quality in time. I'd be amazed if we buy a striker in Jan, but I live in hope!
-1


SanMarco added 20:52 - Nov 6

A worrying performance - surely few can now disagree that we have a significant problem in the attacking part of our game. We don't play as if we expect to score. Aside from the West Ham game we have nearly completely relied on bad back-passes, penalties, own-goals or bundling it in from a corner. The decision not to replace Mane or Pelle is costing us big time - there were no game-changers on that field for us today. If our defensive capabilities were to collapse long-term then we could be in for a struggle. As it is I don't think that we are going to win many matches this season where the other team score and that is a problem however good your defence is.
4


Ali_Diarea added 22:03 - Nov 6

I read somewhere that Tadic has created the most chances in the EPL this season and yet he has not one assist to his name...says it all!

And when is Romeu going to get a rest, we will be seriously screwed if gets injured.
4


luffy22 added 22:54 - Nov 6

Brilliant at passing around the back 5, no midfield flare or anything offered in attack, Against a team as bad as hull, we can't even look like scoring from open play, it's getting embarrassing now. At the beginning of the year I said we would be targeting the top 15, thats begin gin to look a hard target. Need a goal scorer from somewhere.
6


luffy22 added 22:54 - Nov 6

Brilliant at passing around the back 5, no midfield flare or anything offered in attack, Against a team as bad as hull, we can't even look like scoring from open play, it's getting embarrassing now. At the beginning of the year I said we would be targeting the top 15, thats begin gin to look a hard target. Need a goal scorer from somewhere.
0


BoondockSaint added 04:20 - Nov 7

Sorry Luffy--the "agree" click is the one I meant!

Like our forwards, I shot wide and hit "disagree" and someone in the 20th row!
1


deanosfc8 added 09:01 - Nov 7

Remember West Ham away last season? 1 nil up at half time, but no cutting edge to get the second & kill the game. Well a year on some new players, new manager & still we do this! Got to say though I salute you the supporters that had to watch that dross live & then drive home. Forster for me is a worry, It seems that every shot on target is going in! Puel I have one question... Jordy Clasie..
why??? look no one covered themselves in glory but at least you can say Clasie is consistent!!
4


SaintBrock added 20:00 - Nov 19

One to watch from behind the sofa. Of course it was a brilliant defensive display from the Magnificent 7 but all that emphasised was the huge gulf between Liverpool and us. We won't be able to defend this resolutely every week and unless we find a way of mounting a serious attacking threat and actually start scoring goals this could be a very uncomfortable season.
5


SanMarco added 21:22 - Nov 19

From the kick-off to the final whistle the Saints 0 part of the result was a foregone conclusion. We defended well and had a little bit of luck to get the point. We really are shocking going forward and dreadful back passes, own-goals and silly penalties seem to be out main hope of a goal nowadays. A couple of key defensive injuries and we will be in a relegation struggle.
5


SantiBeachUpperLoft added 00:21 - Nov 20

Onuoha does nothing to warrant being the captain. Absolutely no leadership or communication after the Norwich goal to get players focused. Should be Lynch, cousins or Bidwell all day long.
0


smiffdub added 07:48 - Nov 20

I think this game shows us where we really are, all cheerleading aside. I can't remember a more negative, cowardly, performance from a Saints team at home in decades. Everybody on this site knows (even if they don;t always admit it) that we're missing real strikers, have no midfielders who can even occasionally score, and we have little defensive depth outside the obvious starters. But this wasn't really abut any of those things. It was about what kind of identity Puel has imposed on this team. Even though we were at home, we set up and played from the start like an away team that was petrified of the opposition. We defended so deep that the only attacking option was a very very long ball to a player (Austin) who is incapable of hold up play but was left without support for 50 yards. At home! The midfield was all about containment and didn't have a forward moving creative bone in its body. We essentially played with 3 containing midfielders...what other self-respecting PL team does that? If this is what Saints football now has to be, I for one am not interested. What a horrible let down!
3


dirk_doone added 08:33 - Nov 20

smiffdub, that's a little bit over the top. Puel is doing the best he can with very limited resources. He didn't ask for Mane and Pelle to be sold or for the purchase of Redmond as Mane's 'replacement'. Puel is astute enough to realize that the squad is very short of attacking talent so holding out for a scoreless home draw against the top teams is his best option. Would you rather we lost 0-2 like we did against Chelsea? If Van Dijk and Fonte are sold next then we really will be in trouble but as long as we've got them, we'll be a very difficult team to score against and Austin can still score goals as long as his knees hold up.
0


vanmans added 09:14 - Nov 20

Southampton failed to register a single shot on target in a Premier League game for the first time since 28 December 2004. Southampton had 3 shoots off target and Liverpool had 15. Southampton had 35% possession and Liverpool 65%. Southampton 1 corner and Liverpool 8
We were at home for goodness sake. Terrible performance if we carry like this we will be in a relegation fight.
Nick do you still think our strikers are good enough. I have said ever since the transfer window shut that we should have bought one if not two strikers to replace Pelle and Mane. With games like this It looks like I was right.
2


Alehouse added 10:21 - Nov 20

A brave defensive performance, VVD was absolutely outstanding. That having been said I agree with the other contributors about our total lack of attacking ideas and ambition. Pre-match Claude said we wouldn't park the bus but would continue with our normal attacking approach. We certainly continued with our normal approach but there was no element of attacking involved. I haven't been able to get to every game this season, but based on what I have seen this performance was no surprise. Liverpool weren't prepared to let us to keep possession and comfortably ferry passes backwards and forwards across our own half. We don't seem to have any other game.

I cannot see many wins coming our way this season. We were lucky to come away with a point.
6


tsbains64 added 11:24 - Nov 20

exciting, loud and attacking-can you ask for anything else ?
0


sidsaint added 12:47 - Nov 20

Lucky to escape with a point and stats show we were outplayed in every department except some good defensive tackles, which Liverpool didn't have to produce. The result was better than I expected because of the way Liverpool play, they are the fittest team in the league and play an incredible pressing game, they also have better players including 5 ex saints. Most matches see us with the majority of the possession yesterday we had only half the possession of Liverpool yet managed a point. The game also showed where we need to strengthen as no shots on target for the first time in 12 years speaks volumes for what we have been saying all season. We must strengthen in January and hold on to our defenders.
4


Big_T added 13:25 - Nov 20

Unfortunately I said at the start of the season I don't like Austin and Redmond isn't good enough and I have seen nothing to change my mind. I am really happy however at the great performances of Romeu and Van Dijk. I think Puel is doing a great job the team look very organized look forward to getting Long back to full fitness and hopefully an interesting transfer window.
Dear Santa this year I would like a striker than can hold the ball up and bring his team mates into the attack or a bit of pace and a new bike please.
5


Saintcole7 added 21:21 - Nov 24

Nick, ok I watched the game on TV, I hold my hands up to those who went, I know you will disagree with me but tonight I think we were that bad and the club have no respect for the fans hopes that I have decided I will not be renewing my season tickets! Yes you will see this as my first post, not true as I was more active when I bought shares to attend the AGM to grt rid of Rupert and lost money, I have had a season ticket since all seater and showed my faith by buying a St Mary's one a year prior with a 2 year Dell one so have had the same seat since we moved, so I am proud that I supported in div 3 (old style). I read every day with interest but can't be bothered with getting into conflict. But tonight sums it all up, why no first team, it's rubbish that they can't play 2 games a week and if you think VVD will be a saints player come 01.09.17 if not 01.02.17 you are deluded!!! No I am sorry I have lost the faith however much you claim the squad is bigger/better it's not, we've sold attacking speed and nouse for pedestrian backwards football, sorry it's completly boring to watch, we were by far the better team in the first half but how many saves did their keeper make, a big fat zero, in the second half, again a big fat zero while Frazer was worked. I believe I read that Tadic said he would play with a mask, but no we don't see him, the new "Henry" sorry he's got along way to go, oh our super signing, a goal against Sunderland but nothing else, sorry he does not seem interested!! JRod would love for him to be back but it's clear to anybody he is not fit/with if, I now cal him Rusty, very very sad but he can not start it's not fair on him? One last question, why not play your best team for the first 4 games and get through so tonight would be a nothing game? The whole philsophy does not make sense. By the way the only player with any passion tonight was Sam McQueen!
6


pete_boggs added 13:11 - Nov 25

Absolute rubbish from start to finish.
4


Cjay80 added 16:15 - Nov 25

What a huge disappointment. Team picked wasn't strong enough and the front three didn't turn up. Massive opportunity to lead the group missed.
4


Cjay80 added 16:48 - Nov 25

What a huge disappointment. Team picked wasn't strong enough and the front three didn't turn up. Massive opportunity to lead the group missed.
2


luffy22 added 23:06 - Nov 25

The highest rating goes to the Ref, shame the players didn't put as much effort in
3


luffy22 added 23:14 - Nov 25

The highest rating goes to the Ref, shame the players didn't put as much effort in
1


SaintGeorge added 16:15 - Nov 26

I might as well have done a shít in the back garden and watched that. If fact I might have. I honestly can't remember.
0


SaintBrock added 20:48 - Nov 27

We only win 1-0.
-3


sidsaint added 22:43 - Nov 27

What a great debut for Josh. A star in the making and "one of our own" and one in the eye for RK who never gave him a chance. Great Saints football at times with accurate passing and movement, but still woeful in front of goal, should have won by 3 or 4 goals. But great to have another clean sheet.
6


SanMarco added 00:16 - Nov 28

Very pleasing and well done to Puel with the Josh Sims surprise. The first choice fullbacks were the difference for me today.

Only downside was the usual problem in front of goal. A second goal and there is no chance of an undeserved equaliser at the end.
5


pete_boggs added 13:46 - Nov 28

Fantastic debut by Sims running constantly towards the Everton goal without fear creating some long awaited excitement for the fans, and a well-deserved ovation. Hodge tried very hard to create and had much more energy than usual and even had a couple of shots from outside the box, no shots no goals. We should have buried the game in the first half against a de-motivated lacklustre Everton side and showed up our lack of goal threat again. We need AT LEAST 2 goalscorers (Strikers or AM's doesn't matter) in the Jan window to guarantee keeping our heads above water, and providing some well-deserved entertainment for the paying customers. Oh, and by the way, send JWP out on loan in Jan please!
2


pete_boggs added 13:47 - Nov 28

Fantastic debut by Sims running constantly towards the Everton goal without fear creating some long awaited excitement for the fans, and a well-deserved ovation. Hodge tried very hard to create and had much more energy than usual and even had a couple of shots from outside the box, no shots no goals. We should have buried the game in the first half against a de-motivated lacklustre Everton side and showed up our lack of goal threat again. We need AT LEAST 2 goalscorers (Strikers or AM's doesn't matter) in the Jan window to guarantee keeping our heads above water, and providing some well-deserved entertainment for the paying customers. Oh, and by the way, send JWP out on loan in Jan please!
2


NGPALYS added 20:51 - Dec 1

i am totally confused about QPR. I don't know why and how they are playing so badly. On the other hand the performance of Wolverhampton Wanderers is not so good. I am supporting QPR. And hope they will win (:

I am watching this QPR vs Wolverhampton Wanderers Live Streaing match from this website : http://www.ngplays.com/football/watch-qpr-vs-wolverhampton-wanderers-live-stream

Thank you and go QPR go,,,
0


snanker added 22:35 - Dec 1

"Perch's an interesting case study in this. Booked immediately for a late tackle on Bialkowski when he appeared to simply lose his footing, he then committed a horrible foul on Lawrence right on half time – late, needless, reckless, dangerous on a player tight to the touchline and going nowhere, dumping the Town man into the advertising hoardings. Perch does that a lot – stupid tackles in neutral areas of the field on players going nowhere, often at daft times of the game like just before half time or very late on when the score is already settled. He got sent off at Derby last season in similarly mindless circumstances" ESP prophetic .
0


tsbains64 added 08:16 - Dec 2

lucky we were playeding Wolves , could have been 1-5 against anyone else The lads did not give up and almost snatched a late late equaliser Sandro does make a big difference but got take off 10 mins oo early. Thursday night football does not work in the Championship
0


SaintBrock added 17:22 - Dec 3

We are Southampton, this is what we are good at. Hopes raised, hopes dashed. Our strike force is beyond parody unless we take "strike" literally as in on effing strike permanently. A performance like this deserves an F word or two.
9


codge added 17:39 - Dec 3

Nothing positive to say about this shambolic performance, no one comes out of this game holding there heads high, maybe Soares and Bertrand were at least giving there all.
We can't seem to play well against teams that we should should beat easily.I will constrain from venting what l really feel as it does no good and will not change the result.
Still hope springs eternal onward and upward Coyr.
3


pete_boggs added 17:41 - Dec 3

As soon as I saw the teamsheet with WP on it I thought, no goals then, as we would be effectively playing with 10 men. This was, of course, borne out but what I didn't expect was the inept performances by Redmond, Hodge, Soares and Austin coupled with disastrous substitutions (should have subbed WP no matter what Les tells CP). I've said this many times before Forster is s*** , he's a liability, can't save a shot and should have been subbed after the first gift to Palace. Palace were rubbish and we were a lot worse. Awful.
1


vanmans added 20:11 - Dec 3

I agree with Pete Boggs once I saw the team sheet with JWP & Redmond on it I thought we would lose.
Why oh why do we have to play these two its like playing with 9 men. Please get rid of JWP in January and buy a couple of proper strikers. Redmond is not a striker.
3


AmericanSaint added 20:38 - Dec 3

This was a shambles and Foster deserves a lot of the blame,but so does Puel. There was no desire or urgency in the play. You knew that CP was going to park the bus, but after Foster's gift, they became more bold and then BAM, they were 2 up. Long should have come in for Redman at half time to play a more direct attacking game. I think that Sims should have also been put in for holdberg and push the play to the wings as Cedric and Ryan were crossing it well today. Not going to lie, this was a hard game to watch and not scream f-bombs at the television. Well now you better find some motivation and attitude for Thursday's game.
4


Bettwsresident added 09:10 - Dec 4

A tough watch. It is tough to play with only 6 outfield players as Austin, Redmond, Hojberg and JWP had shockers and Fonte and VVD their poorest games for a while, but on the balance we did not deserve to lose 3-0. Foster ensured we did. We had more possession and twice the number of attempts of Palace.

Grabbing at straws Boufal is getting better and starting to show why we paid 16m for him. If the rest of the team functions then he will shine. Also surely it is time to start Sms in place of Redmond. Redmond either needs to start going past players or be replaced. He passes back every time!

Team for Thursday.

Forster
Cedric, Fonte, VVD, Bertrand
Simms Romeu Davis Hojberg Boufal
Austin

3


deanosfc8 added 12:06 - Dec 4

I think the midfield three of Romeu, Hojbjerg and JWP doesn't work, to many sideways, backwards passes.
They just seem to scared to go pass the centre circle, I cant remember any of them making late runs into the box. I'm not sure why Steve Davis didn't play?
Taking off Austin & Boufal was a bit odd when we needed to score.
4


aceofthebase added 18:54 - Dec 4

Cedric put in a few good crosses but such a pity he wasn't playing at right back and for the first goal he was nowhere to be seen and it was Fonte carrying out his duties. The second goal he did nothing and for the final goal he was hiding somewhere in the middle of the penalty area. All the goals came from his side, as they usually do, and it's pretty obvious why. First rule of right back is stop the crosses coming over, basic stuff and ignored by Cedric.
-1


Redrum added 18:58 - Dec 4

That's it.I've had enuff.How hard is it just to score.After all the games we've played and having seen the problem I now blame Pull for not focusing on it and sorting it out.PLEASE drop Long,Redmond, JWP,D avis,Holjberg.They can only play pretty football but are useless at everything else.Our only hope is to have Tadic,Boufel and Austin up front till we can get TWO great strikers.Lets face it Radical is our only creative player along with our full backs.Arrrghhhh!!!!!!!!
2


richsaints added 12:28 - Dec 9

Saints followed the weekend with yet another horror show . They barely created a single opportunity and to be honest got what they deserved van dyke was the only player who could leave the pitch having done his job and a bit more.


4


darthvader added 13:07 - Dec 9

Boring telegraphd football . Only excited after they scored and we started playing . Garbage
4


pete_boggs added 13:34 - Dec 9

Poor team getting worse each week - waste of time watching - absolute shite.
7


GeoffThom added 17:49 - Dec 10

0


OldPedro added 21:44 - Dec 10

Poor - we were too slow, didn't move the ball quickly enough and too narrow, didn't use the space down the wings or stretch the defence. Smithies made several good saves (again).

Ref was very fussy and seemed to allow the home side to get away with challenges that he penalised Rangers for.

0


Clay_Burton added 09:28 - Dec 11

Rotherham treated this game like a six pointer, we didn't. We were lacklustre, devoid of pace or a plan. It seemed to me that we set up in a 4-5-1 and looking to counter attack. This idea was flawed though as we didn't have the width, pace or know how to create a decent chance let alone score. Everything was played through the congested middle and when the ball did go wide it was to Onuoha or Bidwell who would check back and go sideways or backwards as there was no one in space to pass it to further up the pitch.

The ref didn't help either but that was our fault as we didn't compete with the same intensity as Rotherham. We made every 50/50 decision easy for him due to our lack of conviction. QPR were not up for this so the ref had an easy afternoon and gave everything to them because he knew that no QPR player would question it.
0


SaintBrock added 21:38 - Dec 11

A shambles enlivened but not excused by one moment of magic. Our much prized cohesion has been torn apart by the tinker man. Much more of this and he'll become the stinkerman!

JWP is clearly under a cloud of fan disillusionment and sinking ever deeper into the morass. How much more he has to offer Saints after all this time is open to debate but he needs to wake up and start making a difference soon or his Premier League career will be over.
5


SanMarco added 21:56 - Dec 11

I felt very low at half-time. Having Boufal and Tadic as song and dance men on either wing was the only thing worthy of note in the first half. Great goal and a great miss by JRod right at the end. The low quality of the whole thing was emphasized by the fact that Redmond came on at half-time and improved us!!

With all the bad news off the pitch this was a welcome and vital three points. Next three are tough matches and we musn't be fooled by beating a woeful Middlesbrough. We still have problems.
2


dirk_doone added 22:08 - Dec 11

Two very good defences against two very poor attacks had 0-0 draw written all over it but another magical goal from Boufal came like a bolt out of the blue to give us the win. It was like the Sunderland League Cup game all over again.

The highlight for me was watching 2 of the best central defensive pairings in the league playing flawlessly, apart from that sly van Dijk shirt tug, which saved a goal but could easily have seen him sent off. McQueen played very well again and already looks at least as good as Bertrand.

I wish the goalkeeping coach would leave Forster alone. He is now spending far too much time thinking where to place his kicks and opposition managers are going to take advantage of that.
5


aceofthebase added 07:47 - Dec 12

Another good performance by perhaps our best defensive line up. Martina gave a solid performance and still managed to put in some excellent crosses. Thankfully I missed the first half and therefore I can't join the moaners on here.
Puel has changed the team and tactics regularly yet some say he still has to change and others that he is tinkering. RK abandoned the POX method of pressing and relied on solid defense and counter attacks. It's time to get behind all the team and management.
Superb Boufal strike, many more please

-1


FaroSaint added 08:21 - Dec 12

A stale first half of very limited chances though JWP nearly gifted them a goal, only desperate goalline defending by VVD and JF saved the day. This was typical of the recent games uninspiring and lacking finish. The 2nd half produced much more desire to win the passing was better and the chances increased . we should have won by a much greater margin sadly we didnt take the chances we made. wonder goal from Boufal you just find it very hard to suggest who might score the next one.
2


aceofthebase added 10:08 - Dec 12

It does seem that the Boufal goal was deflected and that explains why the goalie didn't move. Well needed goal anyway.
1


10i added 14:42 - Dec 12

We are so boring to watch this season, that it's hard to keep focused on the match for 90 minutes. A win of course makes that easier to take, but the fun is missing and it is hard to imagine what this will make to the fastest grwoing brand in Football. If it is that boring there can't be many costumers worldwide who would want to follow this.
JWP and Rodriguez were again the greatest culprits in showing they are not up to it, but unfortunately the rest was not that much above it. A deflected shot luckily saved us when we again did not look like we could ever score. The defence of course was again solid and even managed to prevent JWPs best try to give them a goal...
But well, to change a game we even have our own Thierry Henry to come on, who manages to get a goal or assist every 551 minutes.

It may not sound like it, but of course I'm very happy about the three Points - but for sure not with the entertainment...
0


DPeps added 22:23 - Dec 14

Whenever I want a laugh I think of the time over the summer when someone on here predicted that our strikers would get 50 goals between them this season!
7


Ali_Diarea added 22:25 - Dec 14

Well at least we''re not considering our best defenders....lol
0


pete_boggs added 22:26 - Dec 14

Shite
1


Ali_Diarea added 22:26 - Dec 14

*selling
0


dirk_doone added 22:49 - Dec 14

Les Reed has fallen out with all the previous managers and players, sold our attack so the best we can hope for is series of drab 0-0 draws, and an occasional 1-0 if we're lucky. Now, it sounds like he's planning to sell our defence as well, so we won't even keep clean sheets because the central defensive pairing of Fonte and van Dijk is just about all that's keeping us from a series of defeats and a relegation struggle.

The reason it is dire this season is that Reed replaced Koeman with Puel, Wanyama with no one, Mane with Redmond etc.
6


VancouverSaint added 04:54 - Dec 15

OK, we can't score, but at least our defence is pretty solid. We are 9th because of them. In most sports, hockey, American Football, basketball, good defence wins out over a team that is offence oriented. All we need is one or two guys that can make this forward line click. Pray for a magical, black box, signing in January then watch out. Santa is listening. Probably dreaming, right?
6


mattthelegend added 07:31 - Dec 15

If you want to cheer yourselves up after that performance last night, read the match report on the saints website, what absolute bollocks!!!
-1


SaintBrock added 08:31 - Dec 15

A dreadfully ponderous performance without imagination or guile. We are simply far too slow to move the ball around and far too lazy to find spaces and run into them. Woeful.
2


Bettwsresident added 09:16 - Dec 15

243 shots, 80 on target for only 14 goals this season. Says it all really.
2


Rikoshea added 18:45 - Dec 17

I can't understand why they continually play Routlidge, Barrow and Montero should start and put Nathan Dyer on the bench. Don't tell me the coaching staff can't see what we see week in week out.
0


WxmJax added 20:45 - Dec 17

Started off well but once the first goal went in the result was inevitable. Can't fault Sigh for effort, shame some of the others don't seem to care as much.
0


MelakaRanger added 16:59 - Dec 18

What did we expect? We are in the Championship and expecting the team to do well. Yet the team comprises a large number of domestic and foreign players of only league 1 or 2 quality. Most every one plays for the money not the badge.
We have a Captain who is absolutely not a leader of men. In fact we have we are bereft of any "leaders"

We have a manager that talks the talk but regrettably can only walk the walk nowerdays at League 1 standard.

The purse strings have been tightened by a board that has the best interests of QPR at heart but their enthusiasm and total lack of "football nouse " means they try hard but don't learn from their mistakes. These mistakes have cost them a fortune yet still they persevere. (definition of insanity?)

I have been watching QPR now since 1967 and have seen my share of the good times and the bad. If Holloway stays and TF and his pals continue to not learn from their mistakes I can only see a number of dire years ahead in Leagues 1 and even 2.

If Tony F ran Air Asia as he does QPR then he would have been bankrupt years ago. The man is no fool whatever you might think
1


MelakaRanger added 17:10 - Dec 18

What did we expect? We are in the Championship and expecting the team to do well. Yet the team comprises a large number of domestic and foreign players of only league 1 or 2 quality. Most every one plays for the money not the badge.
We have a Captain who is absolutely not a leader of men. In fact we have we are bereft of any "leaders"

We have a manager that talks the talk but regrettably can only walk the walk nowerdays at League 1 standard.

The purse strings have been tightened by a board that has the best interests of QPR at heart but their enthusiasm and total lack of "football nouse " means they try hard but don't learn from their mistakes. These mistakes have cost them a fortune yet still they persevere. (definition of insanity?)

I have been watching QPR now since 1967 and have seen my share of the good times and the bad. If Holloway stays and TF and his pals continue to not learn from their mistakes I can only see a number of dire years ahead in Leagues 1 and even 2.

If Tony F ran Air Asia as he does QPR then he would have been bankrupt years ago. The man is no fool whatever you might think
1


Bettwsresident added 21:13 - Dec 18

A re-affirming game. Jay rod is back! Great performance by saints. After the first 10min when it was even, we bossed the game. Jay rod was mobile and held the ball up well, and improvement on CA. Bertrand was on fire, totally motivated and perfect performance, Yoshida was faultless and more composed than VVD!, Boufal reassuringly gutted to be subbed. He had looked really incisive and the backheel to release Davis was exactly what we have been missing. Davis's introduction was key as Harry Reed was having a poor game.

The rotation for the Europa has served us well. There are at least 19 of the squad that can be picked from to give a team. This gives us the fundamental advantage of freshness, Bournemouth faded noticeably.

Overall all I can day is Phew! This was the performance that I have been waiting for., best of all was the return of jay rod...what a brace, the poachers strike of the type he has missed the last 2 games and the beautiful volley.
5


aceofthebase added 21:38 - Dec 18

Bettws You are spot on with your report but you will be marked down by the prophets of doom.

I believe Claude Paul has had confidence in players like Jay and he will be rewarded in the new year. That was a wonderful attacking and entertaining game
2


aceofthebase added 21:38 - Dec 18

Bettws You are spot on with your report but you will be marked down by the prophets of doom.

I believe Claude Paul has had confidence in players like Jay and he will be rewarded in the new year. That was a wonderful attacking and entertaining game
0


halftimeorange added 23:25 - Dec 18

This was a decent performance against Bournemouth - a side that will always fight but not overly-endowed by lots of talent. Steven Davis brought a much-needed presence to the game. Strange to me that Boufal was substituted unless Claude is thinking of the next match. Something very wrong with Fonte. He should be playing even if his days at Saints are numbered. Jay Rodrigues did work hard and it was good to see. Whether this is the moment he displays his previously-seen talent is open to question but this was the first light for a long time, you might say. Saints are top ten but, with the current squad limitations, are we top six? Consistency would help.
2


vanmans added 00:03 - Dec 19

We won but don't get to excited we still need to buy strikers in January. This win was against a very poor Bournemouth team. Redmond is still not good enough and on todays performance neither is Hojbjerg.
Today Boufal, Clasie, Bertrand, Rodriguez & Yoshida all played well. But what happened to Fonte ?
0


leighsaint added 00:24 - Dec 19

It was good to see JRod back in the goals I hope this is the start of the old JRod. I thought he was poor in first half but once he scored he looked more like he old self. Let's hope it's the spark that reignites him because on his day one of the best.
1


SanMarco added 00:34 - Dec 19

A performance to cheer us all up. I am sure we are all delighted for JRod. The goal at the end was excellent. Davis coming on for Reed turned the game. I was surprised at the Boufal substitution but he had been booked - can't surely be about the next game with such a long break. There are obviously serious issues with Fonte - perhaps he knows no one is going to pay 15m for him.

My only concern after a pleasing day is that we don't use one good performance to decide that everything is alright in the garden and that we therefore don't need to strengthen in January. Even with a JRod back to his very best (and that is a journey still in its early stages) we would still be light up front.
4


PezzaSaint added 07:02 - Dec 19

Steven Davis made a hell of a difference when he came on. His experience shone through and he was a calming influence as well as a creative one (for the 2nd goal). Hojbjerg was toilet early on, but improved a lot from the mid point of the first half onwards, you can see that he's got a good level of talent and we mustn't forget that he is still very young and it seems to me that these days the vast majority of new players to the Premier league struggle early on. I've slated Redmond on here recently and he still remains a frustrating player, but you can also see a good level of talent with him on occasions and so we can only keep hoping. Yoshi outstanding, Vinnie as ever very assured and a great leader in Fonte's absence. But special mention for JRod. What a horrible last couple of years he's had and it was nice to see the smile back on his face. Has he finally overcome the injury? COYS
4


SaintBrock added 10:15 - Dec 19

Maybe rotation is working after all. We just ran them into the ground. Well done Jay, Ryan & Steven especially but very good all round performance despite Hojberg blotting his copy book early on. One Harry Reed will want to forget.
2


Geoff78 added 13:18 - Dec 28

The longish period in first half when Holloway seemed to have found a midfield combination that worked proved to be an illusion. But for a while Borysiuk sitting deeper, Luongo and Cousins prompting and wide men getting the ball into the box meant we could dream. But of course we can't score.

The formation was too attacking and left the defence exposed, especially the full backs, and in the second half Brighton kept men very wide on the flanks where they found acres of space.

Why can't we defend properly? The simplest high ball into the box creates panic. Holloway is right to want a goal scorer, but we must defend better. Are Onuoha's days numbered? Why can't full backs close down wide men? Etc...

Brighton deserved winners.
0


codge added 11:39 - Dec 29

Very disappointed with the outcome of this game after the first 20 minutes, why does Forster always stay on his line and rarely comes out for a cross, he is like a statue sometimes so frustrating.To many give aways and JWP is so frustrating another mindless game from him.
4


PezzaSaint added 11:52 - Dec 29

Unfortunately, I had a feeling that this type of result wasn't far away! As I have said before I think against the 'big' teams we carry to many players. Last night, it was again Nathan Redmond, he who had a few chances in the first half to go past players, but bottled it. Soufiane Boufal for all of his wonderful ball skills (and his footwork is mesmerising at times) is a liability defensively. JWP doesn't do enough and is knocked off the ball to easily. The shortcoming of these players (there are others who didn't shape up last night also) get exposed against the big, strong teams and Spurs last night were a big strong team. Boufal must be played centrally if we are to see his best, he is somewhat wasted in a wider midfield position in my view. Lets just hope it was a bad day at the office? By the end Romeu's extra portion of Christmas Pud was beginning to take its toll!!!
2


pete_boggs added 12:40 - Dec 29

Shite as usual need midfielders (3 minimum) goalkeeper, striker and manager.
0


codge added 17:38 - Dec 31

What the Frick has happened to our team,seems like we've lost the plot,lack of urgency in to many players.VVD looked like he didn't want to be there today and has his mind elsewhere. Team selection is mind boggling at times and never seems like a settled team, getting a little worried now.l think we need to buy for sure in January, sorry for so much doom and gloom, forever a Saints fan Coyr.
3


Jackfath added 18:12 - Dec 31

Shite.
0


bathgatejack added 18:19 - Dec 31

shite
0


pete_boggs added 20:11 - Dec 31

Shite
0


pete_boggs added 20:19 - Dec 31

shite
0


pete_boggs added 20:19 - Dec 31

Shite
0


pete_boggs added 20:20 - Dec 31

Shite
0


pete_boggs added 20:20 - Dec 31

Shite
0


pete_boggs added 20:20 - Dec 31

Shite
0


pete_boggs added 20:20 - Dec 31

Shite
0


pete_boggs added 20:20 - Dec 31

Shite +1
0


pete_boggs added 20:21 - Dec 31

Shite +1

1


Starsky added 20:29 - Dec 31

Energy & desire has gone from the players... Their wages though remain massive
0


Bloodyhills added 21:03 - Dec 31

There are no words.
0


aceofthebase added 21:16 - Dec 31

There were time that Saints were brilliant and very entertaining. It looked like a goal would come at any time in the first half and when it did it was so disappointing to give our lead away. Puel made some very positive attacking changes and I thought we would win but another brilliant goal against us did not see us responding and pressing the WBA. I thought it was a strong starting team. I prefer Martina to Cedric, though neither are very good and McQueen deserved another game and he played well. Yoshida has been the match of Fonte, even with his lack of concentration, therefore we were strong enough to win and the first half proved that. Why do we go off the boil, the fans were very vocal in support.
It's no more than a bit of bad luck so come on fans don't get despondent. This season a mid table performance is what we are going to get, accept it and lets hope, pray that steps are being taken behind the scenes to improve the squad
As for writing graffiti may I remind you that this site is visited by people of all ages so cut it out
-2


Neath_Jack added 22:02 - Dec 31

How the f*ck is Gylfi the highest scorer here? Says it all about our support, some players can do no wrong.

Utter, utter shite.
0


landerwal added 23:04 - Dec 31

A game of two halves. We played them off the park the first 45 minutes, scored, then gave away a weak goal which was a potent of the second half. WBA then got stuck into us the same as Spurs on Wednesday. Every time a Saints player got the ball he was been challenged by 1,2,3, or more players, something our team don't do for the whole 90 minutes. We were reduced to hopeful long balls forward which were invariably off target. By the end only one team seemed capable of scoring and they were not playing in red.
3


SanMarco added 23:42 - Dec 31

Very disappointing. I know that the 'Puel Out' sentiment will be gathering adherents and it has to be said that if we really are a top 6 chasing club it is surprising that we are putting up with this. The second half was painful today and all I hear from Puel is that we don't need to strengthen. If he really thinks that then he aint the man for the job.

I have been saying for a while that if our defensive strength deserted us we would be in big trouble. That run of 7pts out of 9 gave us breathing space but after today I am looking down rather than up the table. Almost certainly not relegation but are we one of the best 10 teams in this league? West Brom simply turned up, played competently and won. Once they were ahead the result was never in doubt. That isn't good enough - I am slowly moving to the view that maybe Puel is part of the problem. He needs to prove he is part of the solution quickly. A departure from two more cups and a loss to Everton and 'Puel Out' will spread to all but the ultra-loyalists. We can't keep explaining away the lack of entertainment and the puzzling selections + the total inability to break teams down.

Happy new year to everyone - it is after all only a game!!!
4


codge added 00:16 - Jan 1

Just read that Puel says you have to rotate because you can't expect players to play two games in three days,give me the money they make and l think l could show up twice a week to kick a freaking ball around, what the heck has happened to our work ethic anyway
2


sidsaint added 10:17 - Jan 1

Is it Puel's real view or is he the board's mouthpiece with the China takeover talks in progress.
1


codge added 17:30 - Jan 2

Really don't understand leaving Bertrand out, strange team selection once again.This is really getting old,l don't think Puel has a clue what his best eleven is.How long before we are in big trouble l don't know but it is starting to look bleak.
Saints traveling fans deserve so more than this, l think this manager has to go but l can't see that happening, sorry for all the doom and gloom but after 6yrs a fan of our beloved Saints this is getting hard to swallow.
2


codge added 17:32 - Jan 2

Should of been 60 years a fan sorry for the typo.
0


pete_boggs added 17:40 - Jan 2

Apparently, according to Puel, JWP is more useful than Tadic, Davis or Clasie.
3


Lazz added 17:51 - Jan 2

I can't take anymore
2


the_saint added 18:17 - Jan 2

Clueless manager with tipy tapy crap football sack him now before it's too late.
Come end of Jan all we will have left is a relegation dogfight
2


the_saint added 18:18 - Jan 2

Clueless manager with tipy tapy crap football sack him now before it's too late.
Come end of Jan all we will have left is a relegation dogfight
3


smiffdub added 19:34 - Jan 2

wow, how sad is it that this was so predictable? Can't score, give up one goal, collapse into a heap.
4


SaintBrock added 19:49 - Jan 2

Just when you thought things could not get any worse... at a cinema near you soon "Nightmare at Stanley Park"
2


richsaints added 20:07 - Jan 2

Have total respect for any saints fans who travelled so far probably already fearing the worst sorry to be proved correct but forecast trouble for puel at this stage of the season back at his appointment and by the middle of next week the season could be over barring a relegation battle .Puel and the board should go .
4


DPeps added 20:11 - Jan 2

Permission to panic, sir?
4


SanMarco added 21:01 - Jan 2

The excuse is we ran out of puff due to 3 games in 6 days. I thought "rotation" was supposed to help with this? We are in trouble now. Puel has lost the majority of the fans and I just don't see how this is going to turn around. Our slide down the table will continue unless we strengthen or make a change at the top. We are not as good as we were but this squad surely should be doing better than this.

I was desparate to see the positives after we beat an off colour Bournemouth. The last three games but left me wondering where we are going.
4


vanmans added 23:29 - Jan 2

This has got to be the end of Puel and his relegation expert Eric Black. They are completely out of there depth in the premier league and this rotation system is crap. I said at the start of the season that these two would get us relegated buy not buying strikers.
4


deanosfc8 added 01:22 - Jan 3

Well we are at the stage now the board either sack the manager given time for the new one if quickly appointed to buy a couple of players in the January window or back him. I personally would back him & see where we are at the end of the season, after all we are only a couple of games away from winning our first bit of silverware in 40 years. I don't see relegation an issue, we are mid table at best. If Puel gave us the League cup & mid table at the start of the season we all would jump at that wouldn't we?
1


VancouverSaint added 01:38 - Jan 3

Help! Help! I think we're sinking!!
2


SaintBrock added 09:33 - Jan 3

60 years of this and no heart attack, you must be made of stern stuff codge
1


forallthesaints added 12:03 - Jan 3

What a horrible holiday. Considering we had the worst of any team as far as the fixtures were concerned, I thought for the first half and the first 20 minutes of the second, we were the better of two pretty dull and uninspiring teams. And a word for Maya - apart from one very odd and misdirected pass (it seems there is always one), I thought he had a really good game. Couldn't see the tackle for the penalty so can't comment but apart from that he was solid and calm. The first goal was a lucky bounce after a good save. But after the goal, the heart and stuffing were knocked out of us and it was inevitable that more would come. It might have been different if Redmond had done better with his chance but we'll never know. The thing that concerns me the most about our current form is the reaction of a section of the fans. I'm not suggesting that we should always cheer even the worst mistakes but some guy behind me could say nothing positive about anything and sounded like he was just wishing for a mistake or a misguided pass just to justify his whinging and criticism. Yes, we are struggling at the moment but it's all relative. A few years ago when we were leaving the Championship in the wrong direction, the fans turned horribly and did the "You're not fit to wear the shirt" chant which was fantastically effective. And now, having been spoilt by 7 years of improvement and excitement and Europe and top 4 in the Premier League (albeit only for a week or two) and victories at all the bigger teams, some fans are turning nasty. I'm not happy about the last few games but I'm still going to support my team through thick and thin. There are some (like the bloke behind me) who have very short memories. This kind of season is what we went through year in year out before we went down under twitchy. Some fans are not fit to wear the scarf. I've been worried about Forster's form but would never dream of slagging him off and jeering his kicking - it doesn't help (I thought he was much better yesterday and will get through the slump in form and confidence but needs us all behind him).

Rant over. I thought we were unlucky yesterday but we need to get behind the lads and help push them on.
-2


10i added 14:44 - Jan 3

Obviously, this was crap. Two very, very poor teams competing and we manage to concede 3 Goals.

There is not much to say about the Players, as I can't think of one even playing average, but how you could see Yoshida having "a really good game"??? He started to Counter attacks with poor passing, he lost the Header for the opening Goal (wich VvD of course would have won), and he put the game beyond doubt with the most stupid tackle I can imagine (a very similar tackle to the one, which could have costed us the victory vs. Bournemouth when he luckily got away with it). So he's very much at fault for two of their Goals - I wonder what he had to do to have a bad game...

Puel now had enough time to be judged and I can't think of too many good things. Moaning about the fixtures all the time and telling everyone that Players can't Play twice a week - but then he chooses to Play McQueen twice within three days and leaving out Bertrand, who turned the Bournemouth game around on his own. He robbed the captain of his dream of playing in Europe and as a consequence he got us out of the competition.
My guess would be that he "has" to Play the Youngsters - to show that the academy still produces. There's no other reason I could think of why Bertrand sat on the bench, why he "rotates" (in fact he plays two different Teams), why the helpless JWP plays that often.
Zlatan, 35 years old, somehow manages to Play all those games, as do most of the Man.U. squad, who are 6th and 15 Points ahead (while there are just 12 Points between the bottom of the table and us.

The games are so boring to watch, that there never is a chance of us growing a "global brand", cause noone watching this would ever become a new fan. I criticised RK last year for his sometimes very negative tactics, but that has even become worse.

So, I can't help but come to the conclusion, that Puel is to blame for a lot of things that go wrong here. Let's hope we somehow Progress in the Cups as the PL-season is virtually over - there's no way that this Team will have to fight Relegation.
-1


blackvincent added 19:15 - Jan 3

Won at a canter after their initial momentum dried up, which it did quickly after we scored. Dominated the game from then on and won at a canter. Walsall were well beaten and they knew it, they were demoralised and dispirited, hanging on to keep it down to two nil by the end. Very good football team now, the Dale
0


DPeps added 17:56 - Jan 7

Played ok but conceded two terrible goals. First one can be put down to individual inexperience; second goal was worse - I have no idea why their player was in so much space in injury time!
7


SaintBrock added 18:40 - Jan 7

Spin and rotation = Les & Claude
6


dirk_doone added 19:10 - Jan 7

The confusion caused by Puel's rotation and the coaching of our goalkeepers by Dave Watson seems to have wrecked our once impregnable defence. As for our attack, Les Reed sold it in the summer.

7


patred added 20:51 - Jan 7

Norwich offered little, yet still scored twice. Unfortunately their first came after an error from young Harry Lewis, Their second came in the dying seconds when our defence went AWOL.
Saints started brightly with Norwich seemingly showing us too much respect.
Norwich struggled to get clean possession, and were under the kosh from both Sims and Tadic on both flanks. But we failed time after time to get numbers in the box.
It took Virgil to show our forwards how find some space and finish first time.
The Saints finished the first half well on top and in charge, yet we had only the defenders goal to show for all our huffing and puffing, and poscession. Lots of tippy tappy stuff from the Saints AGAIN...
2ND half Norwich tried to up their game but showed little quile, and rthe few chances they did manage were easily dealt with..That was until young keeper Harry Lewis made a hash of a through ball he clearly favourite to clear, he hessitated, and paid for it by bringing down Jerome who going away from goal.
This livened up Norwich a little, and encoraged their sparse supporters.
Even then the Saints always looked the more likely.
Some clever inter play down our right side resulted in a cross that Yoshida got on the end of and ended up nestling the net..2 goals in open play scored by both our centre backs, says a lot for our strikers!!!
Saints looked as if they were 'managing' the remainder of time..that was until Naismith popped up into the box unmarked to nod in the Norwich equaliser.

The game was played in front of a half full stadium, which is surprising for Norwich. There was little atmosphere, a few groans and moans from both sets of fans..but no boos!
Not a classic FA Cup game. I came away glad we avoided a bannana skin, and glad we didn't embarrass ourselves. Another game we were dominated but avoided winning.

8


Northantstort added 09:43 - Jan 8

Don't worry, it's all part of the masterplan.
Claude Puel's comments in the build up to yesterday:
“I think at the end of this week we will know the calendar and I hope it is full, with many games, and that we can continue to play every three days."
Obviously looking for a replay!
1


Lazz added 10:13 - Jan 8

When will we ever learn
1


Harbour added 14:16 - Jan 8

Expected cup defeat shame Eze went off looked quite good. As soon as we conceded I knew we would lose but 2 very poor goals to concede and we never really threatened other than cousins missing a sitter at the end. Luongo looked well off the pace wozelek shodipo ned mackie all did ok but we had no centre forward and were run over in the middle. Closing ellerslie rd made sense more people in South Africa rd and the loft...
0


pete_boggs added 22:09 - Jan 11

Good stuff, shame we didn't put all the chances away, but good result with a clean sheet. Lots of good performances and glad bringing JWP on didn't cost us the result.
5


vanmans added 22:13 - Jan 11

That's the best ive seen saints play all season. Please put out the same team on Saturday. please please saints don't sign Sturridge he Is crap. Just think what the score would have been if we signed a striker in the summer.
3


vanmans added 22:22 - Jan 11

I agree with you pete boggs its always a worry when we bring on JWP he is to lightweight and offers us nothing
5


DPeps added 22:34 - Jan 11

Hats off to Puel. The game plan worked beautifully.
We should've scored at least 3, and I think we may regret that, but great victory nonetheless
4


aceofthebase added 22:36 - Jan 11

Great team effort with a particularly strong well drilled team selected by Puel. A gutsy busy and dynamic performance by Redmond and even Clasie earned his pay. Yosh was almost equal to our star man VVD and our mid three harrassed and broke up every L'pool attack.

This was a good game, best game of the season for Saints and a performance that promises well for the rest of the season.

New signings? Not too sure who could be dropped/replaced on todays performance
1


vanmans added 22:46 - Jan 11

aceofthebase, We still need to sign a good striker. Just think what the score would have been tonight if we had one.
3


forallthesaints added 00:41 - Jan 12

Great effort from all on the pitch and a well judged side from Puel. Really stout defending and genuinely dangerous breaking out quickly - something we were so good at last year but which we've barely seen this season. I had a good feeling before the game and the team selection was promising and boy did the boys work hard - a masterclass at the back, especially from VVD and Maya. Davis was good throughout and, after a sluggish start Romeu was excellent.

The referee, however, was poor, giving everything their way and missing some appalling cheating from Sturridge, and giving two very cheap, almost spiteful bookings.

As for Sturridge - I'd hate for us to buy him. He's a nasty whinger and the most ludicrous diver in England and he's ENGLISH. How he stayed on the pitch?... He dived at least three times and two were definitely worth cards - if they weren't fouls, they had to be bookings. He's a loathsome cheat and I wouldn't feel comfortable supporting him if he were to be on our books. Thankfully after the dog's abuse he got tonight, he probably wouldn't want to come.
3


saintandy11 added 01:01 - Jan 12

All round an excellent team performance, something that has been missing for a while now. Wonder why that is? Who was not present that could be a disruptive influence on the rest of the team? Any ideas?
Getting a bit concerned with Redmond's skills infront of goal. He should have scored 3 tonight. the goal, 1 he hit straight at their keeper and 1 the money grabbing croatian sh**bag cleared. He also seems to need to work on his tackling. He's either too timid and pulls out of challenges he should be winning or he goes over the top and gets penalized. Small gripes but hey its what we do.
As said by others PLEEEEEEEESE lets drop this rotation policy and use the same starting 11 on Saturday.
2


SanMarco added 08:16 - Jan 12

Best performance under Puel - we wanted it and worked very hard. Just the usual issues in converting chances. I would have bitten off the hand offering me a 1 goal win before the game and if Redmond had have scored the easy chance he missed to make it 2-0 there is no guarantee that Liverpool wouldn't have woken up and been better in the second half. The chance that hit the bar near the end could prove to be the turning point as Liverpool are still favourites.

I echo all those asking for the same team on Saturday.
2


SaintBrock added 16:40 - Jan 12

Wasn't expecting this. Well done lads and thanks for the memories.
1


Toast_R added 09:22 - Jan 13

Away performance of the season for me. Game plan spot on, players selected to do it and executed brilliantly. The only minor complaint is that QPR didn't find the net more then once, they had chances.
The last couple of weeks reminds me of that awful run in 2002, find a win to stop the rot somehow and build from there, this now the third three point haul on the spin and you can see the confidence ebbing through the players. I was disappointed at Chery and Polter leaving but as Holloway remarked last night, getting rid of those who don't want to be here has freshened the place up. Those that are willing to work hard are now reaping the rewards. Pavel Wszolek, where have you been all my life?
Darnell Furlong, the boy is now a man. Solid in defence and a threat going forward, a revelation this season. Ryan Manning, promising. I hope he continues to grow as a footballer because he certainly looks like a prospect. This is how I imagined a QPR in transition to look like, it's early days and there will undoubtedly be more defeats and setback along the way, but I really hope this momentum continues for the rest of the season.
2


pete_boggs added 17:10 - Jan 14

Forster is shi te as is JWP and Redmond, always going to lose with the child playacting as an attacking midfielder. Puel is a Reed puppet.
7


janecook added 17:19 - Jan 14

As soon as I saw that JWP was playing I feared the worst its like playing with ten men.
We must buy at least one Striker in January. If not we will soon be down the Bottom of the table.
11


larry12 added 17:54 - Jan 14

Am I now Janecook? JWP, Hodge, Redmond, Long, Jayrod rubbish. Puel shouldn't play Prowse, as he is a clueless, pointless nothing player(allegedly).
1


hypersaint added 18:18 - Jan 14

Total garbage. Could not score in a free brothel. Les Read is a joke, only not funny.
5


SaintBrock added 18:25 - Jan 14

Forster & Ward Prowse.... end of story. Sell them both.
5


vanmans added 19:15 - Jan 14

PUEL OUT.
SAVE OUR CLUB.
2


1960Ram added 20:08 - Jan 14

No Rams player comes out of this with any credit. De Sart and Camara especially disappointing. If we have to rely on Vydra to try and save the game, it shows the trouble we are in. And Carson, for once, seemed clueless. For all of the Leeds corners, he would not command the area; just stayed on the line. We were helped a lot by generally poor delivery from Leeds corners.
0


DPeps added 20:54 - Jan 14

Just to add a different perspective...
We lost 1-0 away at Burnley under Koeman, and put in a pretty hopeless performance then too

Agree that we need a striker. Whether we'll get one or not is another matter!
-2


SanMarco added 20:57 - Jan 14

Things need to change - this keeps on happening. If Puel is the man for the job then we need several new players. If the players are good enough we need a new manager. Our inability to score goals has been there for all to see for ages and yet thousands of Saints supporters are travelling hundreds of miles to see the same old problems over and over and over again. If I had a pound for every time 'lacked cutting edge ' appeared in a report on us this season I would be able to buy JWP - he'd be no more use to me than he is to Saints of course...

Even our best result of the season last week will probably ultimately be pointless because we did not score enough goals. If we don't use this transfer window to sort things out we will end up pretty close to that dotted line - even below it if other teams have a run.

8


SanMarco added 20:59 - Jan 14

Yes DPeps - but that result was seen as an awful performance and a disaster. This one was just par for the course. With this set up it could easily be repeated at Swansea.
2


DPeps added 21:56 - Jan 14

SanMarco - yes, I agree with you. I was just playing devil's advocate. I suppose my point is that we've played appallingly in the recent past (including most of the first half of last season actually). The difference then was that we could still churn out results. At the moment we look bereft of attacking ideas and, with the exception of the odd good performance, pretty toothless.
I still maintain that Puel isn't the main problem. He's walked into a very difficult situation
4


wibbersda added 22:21 - Jan 14

Come on guys you are being unfair. This was a good performance just unlucky to give away a free kick where we did. If we are to get anything from our next games then Bertrand and VVD MUST start and Redmond needs to put a curl on his shots. This was actually an enjoyable performance throughout.
-3


Jesus_02 added 22:37 - Jan 14

Redmond's Inability to swing his left leg from 8 yrds speaks volumes
3


deanosfc8 added 02:01 - Jan 15

Are we going one step forward & three steps back to the championship!
0


Lazz added 07:01 - Jan 15

We play like puel talks boring
1


the_saint added 09:40 - Jan 15

13 and 8 points away from relegation battle I for one am getting a bit worried now
3


the_saint added 13:23 - Jan 15

13 and 8 points away from relegation battle I for one am getting a bit worried now
0


dixiefrog added 17:24 - Jan 15

You're all missing the point, we has nearly two thirds of the possession and twenty shots which was more than twice the number of Burnley. On another day two or three of our five shots on target could go in, I suppose then you'd be moaning that we hadn't got into double figures. There are no easy games in the premiership, you have to grind out the results and sometimes the luck goes with you and sometimes not. Burnley got lucky, we're still a great club with some outstanding players...forget it and let's look forward to a win at the next game.
-5


DPeps added 17:56 - Jan 15

Dixie - you can excuse fans being a little down, surely? We have lost 4 PL games in a row now, after all. And it's not as if we've been playing the cream of the crop in those games either.

I don't think it's as bad as some (take a look at the DE website if you can bear it!) but there are problems with our squad at the moment. We are too dependent on a handful of players, which is why the rotation isn't working
2


dixiefrog added 19:14 - Jan 15

Thanks DPeps....as a great man said "If it stays as it is I can't see it altering" in other words I think without the introduction of a few new faces, we'll probably see out this season in mid-table mediocrity. We have some great players who simply need a spark to ignite them into action, a January transfer or maybe a lightning bolt from the academy might just hold the key. I'm a glass half full kind of bloke and can't see how constant negativity helps either the players or the Boss, so let's get behind the squad and give them our support, remember no player, team or Boss ever crosses the line with the intention of losing.
1


aceofthebase added 22:26 - Jan 18

Interesting low scores for the midfield! We only talk about replacements for the CBs and forwards but the midfield quality is low and they are the main ones that set up the forwards to score. Perhaps we should be looking at most positions.
5


forallthesaints added 17:50 - Jan 19

Blimey, that was hard work. Norwich came with an extra bus, playing for pens and it almost worked. Lots of sideways passing again but it's really hard to slice through an eight man defence every time you have possession. Cuco could have done with a more decisive attitude and crossed earlier rather than an extra touch and back again but when he did have a shot or first time cross he got vilified for that as well. I'm glad for his sake he was out of earshot for the second half so he didn't have to hear the moaning. Josh Sims started well then disappeared for the best part of an hour before finishing strongly. Maya was cool at the back and nowadays seems to time his one major lapse when there is no threat. All four at the back did well and McQueen did brilliantly to cross for the goal. Harrison Reed disappointed last night, I'm a big fan but he was off the pace and he wasn't the terrier that we've seen in the past - maybe needs the confidence of a run in the team but that's a big risk. But good to see SIX academy boys starting the game. Mind you, I noticed the mascot was almost as big as our midfield!
0


pete_boggs added 23:39 - Jan 19

Haven't had a good laugh listening to the radio for ages. Thanks Claude.
0


Harbour added 18:45 - Jan 21

Cracking game full of incident passion terrible ref and no way a pen they had lot of possession and a good side but we nullify them by hard work and organisation great to see mannng furlong doing so well but mass mackie hall great games solid d all round. Smithies is a premiership goalie let's enjoy him while he is here what a wonderful penalty save and several other great saves the sessinong save was also great. Good to see a near full house and great atmosphere glad crowd stuck with the team and we could see a good performance maybe a bit more quality with the final ball we might have sneaked a win
0


Bettwsresident added 09:12 - Jan 23

Well played Saints. Our strongest team were on the pitch, and the result was 2-0 at half time for first time this season! Leicester looked lost in their diamond and we made them pay. JWP and Cedric where stand out, but everyone had a decent game, even Hojbjerg. Despite PH snatching at two golden chances, it was great to see JWP and PH running into those positions. Whilst PH made some mistakes, but even when he made those mistakes, he covered back and made it right . Only Gray carried a threat for leicester and Vardy's appaling hack at VVD was indefensible and the only blight on the game.

We held possession really well, constantly probing around their 18 yard line, Tadic flicking clever little balls through that were the bread and butter for Mane at the end of last season. Whilst I know that is Puels style to hold possession and dominate midfields this way, it would be nice if we could try and switch defence into attach at bit better. We did it in the Everton game at St Mary's so it is within the team.

Bring on Wednesday.
3


forallthesaints added 19:45 - Jan 23

Good positive display and everyone seemed to gain in confidence as the game went on. A few duff passes from the back (not all Maya) and midfield and one or two chances that should have been put away. But the defence was solid from start to finish and we looked much more threatening in attack than we have in the last few games. Very impressed by JWP who is finally settling into some decent form and Hojberg had his best game so far for the club in spite of missing at least one sitter. Strange atmosphere in SMS but probably down to kick-off time.
2


PezzaSaint added 22:23 - Jan 25

Can't believe it, get in!!!!!
4


Bettwsresident added 22:48 - Jan 25

OMG..scrape me off the ceiling! epic performance, superb defence brilliant decisive counter attacking play. First half we were in control, second we held on and then Simms/long finished it off, I was on my knees praying as Simms picked up the ball, thought he was going to do an Owen and then found long, perfect first touch and then!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!Bring on Manure.
4


vanmans added 23:27 - Jan 25

Boys done well
4


forallthesaints added 23:40 - Jan 25

Immense effort. Wonderful defence - Stephens and Maya, what a pair. Everyone won my man of the match. roll on February 26th. WEMBLEY!!!!!!!!!!
4


carolinasaint added 23:52 - Jan 25

Wow. Wow. Wow. Wow. I never want this feeling to end. Fantastic effort by everyone involved. Special praise to Romeu, who's done fantastic work all year, and Shane, whose tireless running has earned my complete respect--it's only fitting that he's the one who has provided my favorite Saints moment ahead of all the great moments since Markus occasioned our revival. I'll never forget my reaction in a bar full of Liverpool and Arsenal fans: "OOOHHHHHHH----holy **** we're going to WEMBLEY!!!!!!"
2


Lazz added 05:22 - Jan 26

Fantastic we are getting better and now move up the league and overtake Everton.
3


Bettwsresident added 15:21 - Jan 26

best thing of all..if we do win this then Everton have to finish 6th to get into Europe...
1


aceofthebase added 18:34 - Jan 26

Well done Puel for getting a good fit team together despite Fonte leaving and VVDs injury. Well played everyone but top marks to Redmond and Yoshida and pretty near top marks to the rest of the team. Team tactics dead right and L'pool always fearful of our fast breaks whilst having no answer to our solid defense. Jack Stephens looks a natural and Simms will cause many upsets with those rapid breaks. Redmond was a bag of energy in the first half and they could not contain him.
Liverpool face the same problem as Saints of not being able to put the ball in the net despite having some very good and expensive players. Let that be a warning to those who think that buying a new striker will immediately solve our goal glut. My feelings are that gradually the goals will start to come as confidence in the midfield increases.
Just hope I can get a ticket!
-1


murge added 18:06 - Jan 28

Worst display by Rangers since the White City days. Diabolical defending, no midfield, toothless in attack.
0


London_Pride added 18:42 - Jan 28

Wrong formation 1st half with Silla isolated. Doughty struggled and Luongo was disinterested which meant that we saw nothing from central midfield.
Ollie changed things at half time with Washington playing off Silla and the team finally showed some energy but all round, a day to forget. Defence looked shaky - particularly Onouha. Only bright spot was Lua Lua.
0


codge added 02:53 - Jan 29

I would say the word pathetic but l would be being to generous
From the moment l saw the lineup l realized Puel had no intention of really wanting to win this game. Feel sorry for anyone paying for this debacle, sad state of affairs, we never looked like getting anything out of this game rite from the first whistle.
3


petedoors1 added 09:37 - Jan 29

That performance was a total disgrace. That was an insult to the paying fans to pick a team like that and it undermines all the good feeling the club had built up in the week. It was a near full house and people paid hard earned money so are entitled to expect to see the best players available, not a team selected to surrender the game. The club should give us our money back. These kids are just not good enough. Rotation Does Not Work. - See more at: http://www.fansnetwork.co.uk/football/southampton/news/44929/saints-v-arsenal-th
1


tsbains64 added 10:17 - Jan 29

team selection didnot make sense and thus there was a disjointed performance Almost seemed that the players did not know each other in the first half Second period the game improved but the second goal from Burton killed us off despite the Washington effort Probably the worst performance of the season IH admited blame but how can you change a winning team in the first place
0


mattthelegend added 11:04 - Jan 29

Well didn't take long, for the moaners to come out did it!!!!! I had the same discussion with some bloke who left the game after 25 minutes yesterday !!! FFS we played Wednesday, played yesterday are playing Tuesday and playing Saturday, we have nearly a full team out injured Mcarthy, Pied, VVD, Targett, Boufal, JWP, Rodriguez and Austin. What team would everyone like Claude to put out??? A bit of sense and realism is required here people. UTS
-4


aceofthebase added 11:12 - Jan 29

Puel had few players to choose from because of injuries but the team selected was dreadful, I suspect the introductions took longer than the team training for this match. The inadequacies of certain players was clearly highlighted, Classie in particular looked lost and without a strong team around him was very poor. In fact the small in stature midfield were just swept away by a not too special Arsenal side who completely controlled the game.
It is no wonder that hordes left before the end, tho' I do not support that action.
I was pleased to see Gardos again, he has been out for two years and he looked very nervous at the start but he had heaps of promise when we bought him and we must now get him match fit. Our team individually were all goodish players but they were far from the quality players that we need. I hope this result does not affect our confidence for the forthcoming important games.
A word of praise for Danny Welbeck who made an excellent return to the Arsenal side. He was a right handful and took his chances cooly and efficiently. A powerful forward like Welbeck is just what Saints need. We also need some stronger midfield players, Classie and Reed just haven't got it
5


Bettwsresident added 11:23 - Jan 29

Tough to watch, but at both ends we showed some promise, however Reed and Clasie completely lost the midfield and the Ox destroyed our C team. We have almost a complete first team injured and played our strongest side on Wed and I hope they will come out again on tuesday...I have sympathy with Puel that was too much to ask them to play 3 matches in 6 days after the schedule we have been on since xmas. Wenger also rested most of his team knowing that there is an EPL game on Tuesday, but he had some quality players coming back from injury.

Rubbish scheduling, not making room for the FA cup and then moaning that sides play their reserves.

Isgove, Reed, Clasie, Macqueen had shockers,
Simms, PEH, Gardos were good and everyone else had average games.

The FA Cup was a bridge too far for saints...38 games so far this season and 7 first teamers injured and another sold. I just hope we win on tuesday (I will be there), and then overall it will be a very good week. A final at wembley and back to 9th in the EPL.
1


sidsaint added 11:44 - Jan 29

Overawed in first half. Some good football played in the second. It was a tough test for the youngsters who learnt a lot as did the management. Puel had no option but to rest players due to the small squad, number of games played, number of injuries and lack of support from board to bring in new players and for letting Fonte go without a replacement.
4


pete_boggs added 12:45 - Jan 29

If you went you should have a had a mass walk out at half time! Ask for your money back the management are taking the p***.
4


SaintBrock added 22:02 - Jan 31

Better when Boufal arrived, Redmond needs a rest for a month or two.
3


DPeps added 22:12 - Jan 31

Good job we rested the first team on Saturday in preparation for this game...
5


aceofthebase added 22:14 - Jan 31

Did Classie play tonight? No I know he was in the team but did he play?
5


pete_boggs added 22:14 - Jan 31

Will we have to pay for the satellite that Davis damaged?
2


vanmans added 22:25 - Jan 31

Puels master plan worked well tonight then. After Saturdays abysmal performance with the Kids now its just as bad with the first team. Just as well played the first team against Arsenal because the rest done them no good. Are defence tonight was rubbish. Andy Carroll will have a field day against our 2 centre halves on Saturday. Need to buy one tonight.
4


vanmans added 22:37 - Jan 31

Puels master plan worked well tonight then. After Saturdays abysmal performance with the Kids now its just as bad with the first team. Just as well played the first team against Arsenal because the rest done them no good. Are defence tonight was rubbish. Andy Carroll will have a field day against our 2 centre halves on Saturday. Need to buy one tonight.
0


TimSaint added 02:43 - Feb 1

Frustrating again - Swansea never touched it for the first 15 mins, then we sat back and let them come on to us. It seemed Tadic got a knock early on and after that our attacks were focused with Redmond on the !eft - which perhaps explains a lot !!
Not sure if it was a pen to them for the handball, but couldn't really tell from my seat. Long seemed to get kicked and hacked a lot, but got nothing as usual.
Fraser kept us in it in the first half with a few good saves, but the headed (perhaps from Davis?) clearance that led to the save for the corner that led to the first goal was piss poor.
At least changes were made - and good changes at that. Boufal did more running and created more than Redmond and Tadic combined. Bizarrely and comically Redmond had a shot from in the box, that went for a throw on. It had so much slice on it, it probably finished behind him - then blamed Boufal for a poor lay off !!! WAC
After we drew level with a really well worked goal, i thought we would go on to win it, but embarrassingly poor work from our own corner gifted them a break away and ultimately a goal that was so, so avoidable - and FF should have saved.
After that, to be fair, we pretty much beseiged their goal, but could convert anything and the likes of Sims, Boufal, McQueen and Davis need to learn when to shoot or lay it off. When the shot is the best option, too often we pass instead and nobody wants to take on that responsibility.

Oh - funny that the biggest bloke on the pitch(Lorente) is the dirtiest shirt pulling diving cheat that gets all the decisions, yet Long gets kicked and tripped all over the park and gets nothing. It is not La Liga FFS.

Then to sum the evening up, the M4 was closed for a section on the way back, meaning a lovely detour round a semi-foggy Newport !! Still, was nice to head back for some of the way with a car with SFC on it's number plate :-)
3


Bettwsresident added 07:45 - Feb 1

TimSaint is pretty spot on. Dull with saints in control for first 15mins then Swansea had the game for 30 mins in the first half and won it with a breakaway from a corner finished well by sigurdsson in the 2nd. Even the corner they scored from was heading straight at forster until OR thundered it in!

Our full backs played well, but tadic was awful, totally static and when he had the ball very slow to make a decision. Redmond barely better...summed up by when some boufal magic laid it on a plate for him and he sliced it for a throw in..I didn't see him blame boufal as I had turned around with my head in my hands!

Boufal was brilliant, created so much, should have had a pen and swansea couldn't get the ball off him, even when they double teamed him. One thunderous tackle from OR was like a firework going off!

Why did Puel have to wait until 60 to take Tadic off?...that was obvious at half time. Simms for redmond earlier would have been good and clasie was anonymous whilst McQueen threw himself about.

All in all, first half was poor, but 2nd was a good game with Saints pressing and we found our voice. I don't begrudge Swansea the 3 points if it means they stay up.

2


RogerToye added 11:20 - Feb 1

Dusan doesn't seem to like mid week away games. Overall we should have had at least a point in this game. finishing again pretty average one mistake and one unfortunate first goal against as i like the fact romeo tried to track his man better than he has been doing and the defensive pressure giving the forwards to much time to play on that break on the second = two goals for 3o mins first half we went to sleep second half all over them . but then teams know how to park the bus against us still thought it was a good game and performance by us especially second half. welcome back Boufal and hello Manolo give them time to jel
0


codge added 17:34 - Feb 4

Same old thing 22 attempts 1 goal to show for it, l like the look of Gabbi looks like he will make a difference.Defense in the middle still looking very shakey although Yoshida was as usual fairly steady, Stephens will be eaten alive against United and l fear for a blowout.Just praying VVD can somehow come back earlier than expected, will be waiting for the interview with Puel to hear the same excuses again.
4


thornhill1976 added 18:02 - Feb 4

Les Reed has questions to answer. Total lack of strategic thinking - the very thing he is supposed to provide. Doesn't matter whether it was arrogance or ineptitude- he has failed. We have a squad of very average players who are collectively under-performing. Losing a Euro Champs winning centre half was only the most recent spectacular error. Saints fans will view the final with some trepidation...
8


SaintBrock added 19:52 - Feb 4

Ages since I had so much fun!
0


kingolaf added 20:02 - Feb 4

Should have kept Fonte and sold Rodriguez.
8


Cjay80 added 20:52 - Feb 4

For me despite a disappointing result, the team tried, albeit too deep. We play much better when we press higher up the pitch.
Gabbi looked exciting and worked hard.
The worst part for me, (and here come all the negative votes) was the crowd. Never in my life have I felt like an away fan at home. Every time I go to watch Saints the crowd is singing. Today was like a library. West ham fans sang when the saints go marching in more than our own. In fact it was the 64th minute by the time it began to be heard by our own. The West Ham fans dominated the stadium with their 95 minutes of singing, it is no wonder our guys didn't perform so well without our 12th man
.
-5


richsaints added 20:53 - Feb 4

Enough is enough Claude the clown has to go and wishful thinking for reed to go as well after all he is the architect of this shambles.
4


SanMarco added 21:00 - Feb 4

I simply cannot get over the fact that the club thought it safe to not bring in a CB. The equaliser today said it all. I can't see another clean sheet until VVD returns and given our usual shots to goal ratio that means we are in trouble. We looked and played like relegation candidates today. Wet Spam are not a very good side but they beat us on our own ground without breaking sweat. I would happily settle for 40 points and getting through the final without humiliation - that would actually be an achievement for us now. The high of Anfield now seems a very long time ago.
9


dixiefrog added 21:29 - Feb 4

Today we had plenty of luck, trouble was it was all bad luck. Over twenty shots, many on target and from what I saw, every one of our players was playing his heart out. Gabbi looks a good buy and apart from scoring, he also seemed to be up for the fight as well.
I think Wet Spam got lucky today, Carroll was his usual self which we failed to neutralise, but their other goals were both dealt with a large slice of luck which on another day, would have been blocked or dealt with by our defenders.
With defenders in mind, I thought Yoshi had a solid day and Stephens whilst trying his best was clearly nervous and will benefit from his team-mates experience.
So we live to fight another day and on another day where the opposition is less lucky, we could either gain the three points or bring home a cup. Despite some saying the fans were quiet, I and those in my area were very vocal and got right behind the team, I intend to keep roaring them on.
-6


saintfrance added 21:31 - Feb 4

Same old, same old, start well score then sit back and invite trouble, play to the final third then back to midfield, stand off and let them play. We are not moving the ball fast enough or accurately enough, not closing down, just to many NOTS. Puel doesn't give interview analysis, just excuses and seems to blame the players,he coud put his comments on disc and just give it out as it's always the same.
8


vanmans added 21:48 - Feb 4

Well said SanMarco Saints are a joke. les reed should be shot for not bring in a CH. Today was a total embarrassment our defence is shite. Relegation is now a possibility thanks to REED.
9


vanmans added 21:53 - Feb 4

Looks like Fonte done the right thing moving to a Better Club.
5


petedoors1 added 22:10 - Feb 4

Les Reed you have ripped us OFF. This team you have left us with is shite. The bottom teams have Bought players to improve there squads but you have Failed us fans by not buying any CHs
10


vanmans added 22:13 - Feb 4

CHAMPIONSHIP HERE WE COME.
2


vanmans added 22:15 - Feb 4

PUEL OUT
3


mikesaint added 23:28 - Feb 4

Total Rubbish our defence is us. WHY OH WHY did we not buy a CH? The teams at the bottom are winning and we are Losing Disaster. All you happy clappers must now be worried about Relegation. Get used to it with no Good CHs we are going to Lose.
9


pete_boggs added 23:39 - Feb 4

Yoshi No 1 CB, Stephens No 2 CB. JWP AM. You're avin a laf!
5


janecook added 23:51 - Feb 4

Hear we go Relegation Fight starting now.
5


janecook added 23:51 - Feb 4

Hear we go Relegation Fight starting now.
3


StRipper added 01:38 - Feb 5

Dixiefrog your optimism sounds reasonable re luck, in the context of 1 match. Though when you weigh it up against 6 losses out of 7. It's too much of a leap to argue we are just unlucky
4


steve_saint added 07:32 - Feb 5

It was so disappointing to see such a lack of leadership and passion on the pitch - players heads dropped and Puel was like a statue on the touchline.
7


simmo400 added 09:37 - Feb 5

Team showing weakness all over the pitch.
7


thornhill1976 added 12:14 - Feb 5

Les Reed has had £200m to spend and we are playing with two second rate centre-backs. Let that sink in.
9


paulgod added 12:23 - Feb 5

Why can't the manager and staff see that the current way of playing is not working! Too slow coming out of defence with lots of sideways movement and no vision from the midfield. The last few games the forwards have been keen to make runs and expect a ball over the top but we insist on playing it side to side. It proves it works as the only decent one over the top yesterday we scored from. The players are not getting the basic of passing right and as for shooting most of them are awful. The only decent deadball player is JWP but even even put one free kick from a decent position well over the bar. I was watching them in the warm up shooting at goal and 75% of shots went over the bar. They spent most of yesterday running around like headless chickens. Something needs to change or else we are heading for the relegation zone and whilst I will enjoy going to Wembley I dread what United will do to us.
9


Royboy48 added 14:19 - Feb 5

Five things we learned from Ewood Park
One) two northern games in four days not really an excuse –they stayed up, somewhere nice
Two) Darnell still has a way to go– But we should stick with him
Three) Manning and Luongo may be presenting us with a Lampard/Gerrard problem. I think.
Four) Smith on 20 minutes evidence, looks like Poulter without the aggression BUT he won every ball in the air and will certainly link well with Conor
Five) Holloway needs to read the game better; Emnes immediately swung the momentum Blackburns way bullying Darnell with little protection from Yellowcard Perch or anyone else
Six) Perch looks like he could get a red card almost every tackle (Yes, of course, we knew that already)
Seven) Bidwell looks as though he could mature into an outstanding left back
Eight) 89 mins 'Coyle Out', 90 mins 'Owen Coyle's Blue and White army'
Nine) we learned nothing from brief and super-brief appearances from Ravel and Kazenga respectively - except that perhaps they should of come on earlier
10) England were poor but still beat France
11) the Bournemouth supporters at Norton Canes
services were more fed up than I was

11 things we learned… Okay, I didn't expect the Spanish Inquisition…
0


the_saint added 14:40 - Feb 5

Two things left relegation and cup final damage limitation
We are now in real trouble 6 games against top 6 and that just leaves us 8 games of we need at least 4 wins
Even my happy capper pro puel mates are now starting to turn
Puel has to go as he is out of his depth but more so reed head of recruitment what a joke
Needed a striker in the summer and he waited to January and needed a centre back and because teams added a couple of million on as they knew we were desperate, reed dug his heels in and said no. Does the idiot not know relegation will cost us more should of swallowed that bitter pill. A couple of centre backs wage demands were high but there were more targets out there and the black box to fall back on.
7


the_saint added 14:54 - Feb 5

Two things left relegation and cup final damage limitation
We are now in real trouble 6 games against top 6 and that just leaves us 8 games of we need at least 4 wins
Even my happy capper pro puel mates are now starting to turn
Puel has to go as he is out of his depth but more so reed head of recruitment what a joke
Needed a striker in the summer and he waited to January and needed a centre back and because teams added a couple of million on as they knew we were desperate, reed dug his heels in and said no. Does the idiot not know relegation will cost us more should of swallowed that bitter pill. A couple of centre backs wage demands were high but there were more targets out there and the black box to fall back on.
4


forallthesaints added 16:36 - Feb 5

Horrible game - lots of huff and puff (you certainly couldn't accuse anyone of not trying) but no cohesive movement. Too often the midfield passed it forward to a man surrounded by Hammers and he duly got hammered and lost possession. Then it became a hoofing exercise but with no height up front, we are never going to win that game. Yes West Ham got lucky, especially with the third goal, never a free-kick in my opinion. But once it was given, just looking at the way the defending it was set up, I was certain they'd score. I've never been a so-called happy clapper but neither have I been thinking Puel should go but I'm not so sure he has the dressing room any more. We looked rudderless.
One bright spot was Gabbiadini - great opening goal with hard work and movement throughout the game - just no decent service.
My biggest worry is Forster - his form has been poor all season and his confidence looks shot to bits. Could have made it more difficult for Carroll with the first goal, should have stopped the second and didn't look like he knew what he wanted at the free-kick for the third.
As for Reed, maybe we should have worked harder to get a CB in January (although few were saying that after their heroics at Liverpool in the EFL semi) but one disappointing transfer window doesn't suddenly make him and his team fools and under him we've had years of improvement and great progress. You could just as easily blame that dirty bastard Jamie Vardy for our CB troubles.
3


richsaints added 17:02 - Feb 5

Wish cortese was still here then this knob would never have got near the job .
0


richsaints added 17:02 - Feb 5

Wish cortese was still here then this knob would never have got near the job .
-1


SaintBrock added 17:14 - Feb 11

Playing for their Cup Final place today no doubt about it, only weak link was JWP again. Good for Jack Stephens, he won't have too many games as easy as this but looked more composed and gave himself time and space and freed up Cedric to get forward.Romeu, Yoshida, Bertrand, Davis what can you say? Simply magical in link up play and close passing out of trouble. Front line excellent. Big shout for Manolo Gabbiadini 3 in 2 and new to the Premier League (you're having a laugh!)

Jay Rodriguez definitely on his way out and he knows it, at least 4th choice now.

Next season with everyone fit we will be Top 6 for sure
6


vanmans added 17:39 - Feb 11

Great result despite having JWP in the team. Where would we be in the league now if we bought Gabbiadini in the summer? Please please don't play JWP in the final.
5


RuislipHoop added 18:18 - Feb 11

0


vanmans added 18:35 - Feb 11

Great result despite having JWP in the team. Where would we be in the league now if we bought Gabbiadini in the summer? Please please don't play JWP in the final.
-1


Harbour added 19:34 - Feb 11

Started the first half well but we do not take our chances. There first goal was well worked .. the second We should have defended better. Washington nearly scored but there goalie did well. Second half big improvement freeman took his goal well smashing it in. To be fair with the chances we made and the free kicks we should have equalised but they held on. To be fair they are a good side and I can see them getting automatic promotion. We should have had a pen but ref might missed it. Starting to get nervous we need a crap performance and get the 3 points to get out of this but feels like this will go down to the end given our inconsistency
0


aceofthebase added 19:59 - Feb 11

I have also thoughts that JWP is a weak link but he has had several good games recently so don't write him off. I trust Puel to get the best out of him. There can be no doubt that he is far superior to Classie and just ahead of Hojb..

But let's celebrate a wonderful away win against Sunderland. I believe that without a rotation policy nearly all our 'first team' would be injured,played out or on red cards and that none of our squad players would be ready to take up the fight. I expect that now we have less games that Puel will select a more regular team but even so he must be allowed to select different players for different games, it's called tactics and thatis whywe have a manager. We may not always agree with the manager and I don't suppose Puel would agree with Nick abou Yoshida.

It looks like goals are easier to come by now and that despite some worries our defense is looking solid. We can't ask for much more. Oh!, perhaps a stronger midfield, but Romeu and Davis were exceptional today.
1


SanMarco added 23:31 - Feb 11

Bertrand certainly showed us why we need him as a left back (not in the centre) and Gabbiadini is confirming that he should have been signed in August. It has certainly been a very up and down season and my feeling is mostly of relief that we got a much needed win. Now we can start picking our cup final team with a little bit of the league pressure off!
5


SaintNick added 10:06 - Feb 12

Not sure why so many people have it in for JWP, in a game like this his ability to pass the ball both short and long can be a real asset and I don't think a lot of people realise that and just slag him off whatever the result.

Now we have Gabbiadini the midfield have someone to pass to and this could benefit JWP who too often has to go sideways because there is no option forwards
1


Harbour added 08:04 - Feb 22

Hard game as expected everyone of their players looked over six foot all very physical and half the team booked. We did very well to win that game all the team played well and impressed with the hard work throughout the game. Special praise for Ned who again got some unwarranted stick from a few fans, he saved us more than once. Freeman turning into quite a signing very skilful
Excellent goal from Connor pleased for him and really showing why we signed him together with Matt Smith again another great goal. Think they will stay up the lad bogle had a good game. Great at last to see a win at LR bit of rareity this season hopefully onwards and upwards
0


richsaints added 21:16 - Feb 26

Fantastic display so unlucky best side by a mile JWP at last fulfilled his potential and stepped up on the big occasion .Forster was shakey and should have stopped first and maybe even second Gabby was pure magic very proud to be a Saints fan tonight although bitterly disappointed mourinho said before match the best team would win he was wrong and almost admitted it.
6


Bettwsresident added 22:43 - Feb 26

ARRRRRGH!

In the cold light of a week or so's time I will probably look back on a brilliant game that made me proud to be a Saints fan...but for now I feel as gutted and angry as Le Tiss was. It was there for us and we played more than well enough. Seeing Koeman's gloating tweet made me fume.

Yoshi covered Stephen's really well and did not make a mistake, JWP was v good, but in Manolo we have an absolute gem. Well done Les Reed. He will follow in Pelle's footsteps and be Italy's CF before the end of this season.

Sadly after being so confident in FF last season, I found myself chewing my nails every time the ball went near him, surely it is time to bench the big man and give Hassan a go.
6


SanMarco added 23:52 - Feb 26

Great game, superb performance but no luck whatsoever. At least we were caught on the break while pressing for a deserved winner. We were so much better than them that even, as richsaints says, Mourinho had to admit it. It was a dreadful shame that the winner was such a soft goal but now is not the time to look at blame for all of the poor goals we conceded.

Gabby was man of the match followed by any one of 6 or 7 other Saints players. Ibrahmovic hit a free kick that should have been saved and a header that was basically a sitter - that doesn't make him man of the match. Oh and we should have been playing against 10 for most of the second half but the referee bottled it.

Well done Saints and bad luck.
6


helpineedsomebody added 01:45 - Feb 27

Lamppost was not in the correct position for the 2nd goal and he was ball watching for the 3rd goal
Oriol in the whole of the match had to stay in front of him all of the match only when we had a free kick or a corner did he move over the halfway line.
We as supporters knew this as our weakness and so did man utd all they did was wait for him to wander all over the pitch when under pressure .
Where does js goes from here well I think you have to ask Mr dof the worst manager in the epl ever
-1


Saint_in_Singapore added 05:41 - Feb 27

Absolutely gutted, but a fantastic match and a great effort by the lads and well worth staying up in the wee hours glued to the tv. Saints were clearly the better team. JWP found a new gear and was impressive. Yoshida and Oriel were strong, and it was great fun watching Bertrand, Tadic and Redmond cause havoc. Gabby is awesome - getting into the right place (one bad run aside) with quality finishing for a well-taken hat trick. We needed him months ago.

We lost, but gave a much better and more honest account of ourselves than in 2003. Big finish to the season please boys!
7


NeilF added 15:41 - Feb 27

First of all, I had a great day supporting the team with fellow fans at Wembley. The fans and the team were fantastic. My first thought from leaving was whether Manolo should have come off. Jose did not take off his best striker and look what happened. Manolo was the one who I feel wanted that winning goal more than anyone. We were chipping away at Utd and Claude did change things around when I could see the goal coming. This may have been Claude's big gamble. Would we had lost anyway or did his gamble not work? Saying that to give Zlatan that much space, the big man he is, is questionable. I guess that is Utd for you, they do not stop til the very end and get lucky. This is why most fans do not like them. They end up winning!

That does not take anything away from Saints who just could not do it for the want of trying. I have the most respect for the team. However, I was a bit frustrated with Boufal, still up to his ballerina football. Just pass the ball, especially when the minutes are fading. It was also strange Puel put Rodriguez on having taken Manolo off. Manolo wanted that third more than anyone. Even taking Steven Davis off I thought was strange seeing as he was a driving force.

Zlatan got man of the match, but to say it was deserved I would not say. The wall could have been better for the first and Forster could have got a hand to it. Zlatan was also not marked for the winner.

As for action though and near chances, it was Saints all the way. I am proud of the team and all involved with regards to Saints. We March On with pride.
2


fubsy added 17:35 - Feb 27

On the train to Wembley we had a discussion with some Man Utd fans about the possible result. We all agreed it would end 1-0, but disagreed about who would win. One of the Manchester fans said "On the train home, I hope the steps are slippery with your tears".

He got his wish.

Saints gave a tremendous performance and I feel very proud.
1


Cjay80 added 10:59 - Feb 28

Firstly, to be in the middle 32,814 Saints fans singing loud and proud was an honour and a memory my wife, daughter and I will cherish forever. So disappointed with the result and the terrible officiating for the opening goal, we were winning for 2 seconds. Also disappointed with Oriol's tackle that conceded the free kick, gutted the post stopped him making amends in the final minutes.
That said, every one of the first eleven worked their nuts off and should be very proud of what was achieved, even if it wasn't all we wanted.
Forster, did ok but not the as fast as last season. Yoshi, worked hard but hesitant to move forwards like VVD does. Jack Stephens appears to have gone unnoticed, I watched his play off the ball, spacially aware and organising the back four. Many have doubts, I have none, that's a future England CB there so long as a "big" club doesn't sign him and waste his potential (whatever happened to Chambers, Shaw, Schneiderlin). The full backs worked tirelessly and we're a handful all day. Oriol faught hard and was a rock, Steven ran his socks off but is too short to be in a wall, JWP I have been a fan of for years, like Beckham, this lad can land a 40yd cross on a 20p piece, Redmond tirelessly running but why must he shoot 4 yds wide whenever he is just outside the box, more dangerous inside it, Tadic trickery outshone United's and Gabbi is close to fast becoming my daughter's favourite player, Charlie Austin watch out. As for the subs, Boufal is trying to be Ronaldo but he ain't, need some gym time, Long came close but perhaps should have come on 10 minutes earlier, JayRod didn't have time to make an impact as all the time wasting at the end. It must have got windy after the goal, their players kept getting blown over. Anyway, enough waffle, thanks to all the players and staff for making this experience possible and all the fans for winning the battle on the stands, their lot only started singing in the train station on the way home and they only had 1 bloody song.
0


SaintBrock added 17:08 - Mar 4

A really mixed bag but concentration and stamina were always going to be issues today. Stephens should drop to the bench for a while after his performance today and JWP was all at sea and needs a rest.

Still a win is a win and at least we are scoring for fun now. We cannot keep Boufal on the bench and waste his talent so put Nathan Redmond at AMF, Boufal on the left wing, Tadic right and Gabbiadini on top.
8


Royboy48 added 17:50 - Mar 5

And emotional day ramps up the memory; on any other day and in any other fixture This game will probably not have remained long in the memory

Coming from behind to win a match in white shirtshasn't happened for a while!

My takeaway from this game is that
we have a decent squad of players who are slowly but surely blending into a team
Luongo is destined to never score a goal for QPR
Neil Warnock is destined to rant into eternity! (Saying that in an affectionate way) check out the final two minutes of the full replay on QPR player!
Smithies should keep hold of that green top, black shorts White Socks combo - so much classier than the Canary outfit
0


centrestandswan added 20:55 - Mar 18

Rubbish
1


Harbour added 16:51 - Mar 19

Nice day out with my brother who came up for the game.5 goals cannot remember scoring 5 and nice goal from Rotherham. They are a poor side worst I have seen in a long time and to be honest we have played better. Strange atmosphere in the ground fist half like a practice match great to see different scorers freeman ngoboto mass all good.nice day out signs all good for next season
0


SaintBrock added 09:33 - Mar 20

An end of season affair at best. No spark at all from Saints and too many players running around with sour expressions. Cedric, Yoshida & Redmond particular seemed to think the whole world was against them for some reason. If players are spending their whole time protesting at referee's decisions then they just are not concentrating on their game.

Puel gave them a well deserved rocket up the backside at HT and it looked better for a while after that but the loss of Gabbiadini brought into focus once again how useless our strikers have been all season and now it seems we may be back to where we started for the rest of the season.

Davis was all over the place first half and one wonders if the captaincy is affecting his game. JWP was invisible and despite his goal surely Puel cannot continue to justify making him a first choice. Yesterday, Hojberg, Clasie & Carceras could not have made a worse fist of it than Davis, W-P & Stephens.

I was not happy at Puel's team selection; why does he leave substitutions so late that players coming on have no time to find their touch, get up to speed and make any sort of effective contribution? Rodriguez really has become an irrelevance and Sofiane Boufal has clearly chucked in the towel as far as Saints are concerned. He is obviously pissed off at never getting a game and will probably ask to leave in the summer.

Then we come on to the subject of Carceras! Why the fiddly boos he wasn't playing beats me and probably many of you who have seen him in action in the U23 games. He is a world calls CB right? This was Spurs, second in the league right? Stephens got selected because he "won the competition" over Carceras for his place, right? My Rrse!

This has more than a smell of dishonesty about it, the poster over on the other site who suggested we pay him for appearances rather than salary may have nailed it on the button. Les instruction to Puel, "Dress it up in the pressies but do not play him unless you really have to as we don't want to spend the money!" I'll wager a tidy sum Les is praying for Yoshi and Stephens not to get injured!

So why is he here without payment or even at all. OK he probably gets a small weekly retainer and gets to train and get back to fitness free of charge so that come the summer he can restart his career in a Champions League team which is perhaps all he ever wanted from the deal to come here.... and Les can say he listened to fans and brought in a CB in January. Surely we deserve bette.
5


SaintNick added 10:09 - Mar 20

Why is James Ward Prowse rated as our second worse player of the starting line up, he had a decent game and scored, some people just dont like him
-1


Bettwsresident added 10:50 - Mar 20

Saint Brock, where we watching the same game! We were playing a team fighting for the title who were quality in the first half helped by OR and SD given their midfield too much space, and even then we threatened and could easily have finished the half 2-1. I despair of Tadic's theatrics when he didn't get the pen he should have had, he was still down on the ground when the ball came back to him!

2nd half we were tigers for first 20 mins, Redmond/JWP and co were superb and if linesman had given benefit of doubt to Long (when he was onside 3 or 4 times but given off) it would have been a different result.

Comedy moment was OR's attempt at a forward pass after some brilliant work winning the ball. It is not his strength!

Only disappointment (other than the result and Manolo's injury) were the cameo's of Jay rod and especially Boufal who did not look anything like the player who stole the show at swansea. He is better than that.
0


allsaint54 added 16:49 - Mar 20

Good to see Forster playing with more confidence, one of his best performances for a long time. Our central defence still looks way short of PL quality. As for Boufal, what a shambolic performance. He should have been subbed instead of Redmond. So far he looks a total waste of money.
2


Bettwsresident added 17:44 - Mar 20

all saint..re Boufal. You didn't see him against swansea. He looked worth every penny of what we paid. Give him a run in the team instead of Tadic and I am sure he will shine.
-2


rochdaleriddler added 21:07 - Mar 22

Team of officials were rank
1


Addinall added 07:54 - Apr 1

Plenty of effort.Lack of skill and nous.Bad day at the office.
1


francisbowles added 10:53 - Apr 1

Think Ollie's interview was a fair summary, passing poor, new manager bounce, he was a bit slow with subs and we missed Luongo.

Smithies poor (for once), Furlong not bad but a couple of errors (still learning, Bidwell solid and steady but ineffective going forward, Perch and Ned generally ok, Hall fairly good.
Manning, Freeman and Wszolek all hardly in the game and when they were constantly gave the ball away, Washington hardly got the ball and Smith double marked out of it and when that happens he seems to have little else to offer. He has been very good up to now but his lack of mobility (he doesn't seem to have a sprint in him) is a real worry.
1


Yorkshire_Dale added 20:27 - Apr 1

Another case of just what might have been today at San Spotty........nearly held on for a fortunate win but the defense was again found wanting.

Don't start a totaliser of Points Dropped in extra time.......yo would have nightmares!
0


SaintBrock added 09:42 - Apr 2

Simply dreadful. Truth is we had some very average players out there today. Nothing helpful at all from the coaches.
10


grumpyoldsaint added 10:15 - Apr 2

We were rubbish. We played like it was the first match of the season. Having watched bmth twice I must congratulate their falling over coach every fifty fifty ball resulted in one of their players tumbling to the floor as did the mearest touch from one of our players. Maybe we should poach the coach and hope that a very poor ref is conned just like yesterday
10


DPeps added 11:00 - Apr 2

Started well but no cutting edge up front without Gabby or Austin. In the end we were lucky not to lose, and that's not even factoring in the penalty miss.
There were some positives: Stephens and Maya continue to perform well (although we will need to replace VVD when we inevitably sell him). Redmond had a good game.
Negatives: Forster continues to look dodgy from crosses, and almost destroyed Stephen at one point. Jay Rod must be getting lessons from Long on timing his runs!
7


SanMarco added 11:25 - Apr 2

We were back to the pre-Gabby toothlessness. What should have been 2 or 3 up at half-time but ended up hanging on for dear life. A better team than Bournemouth would have put us to the sword in the second half. Thank god for Romeu. After a good game at Spuds Forster was back to his worst. This kills off any fantasies of us having a late season surge up the table - I will be delighted when we get to 40 points.
11


deanosfc8 added 11:46 - Apr 2

The first 20 mins we could've been out of sight, but like many games this season the same pattern began to continue. With gabbi we look a totally different outfit.
Give Puel credit, with 20 mins left he did try to change it but being positive almost
lost us the game. The thing is this game is going to be remembered for the last 20 minutes & not the 70 minutes previous where I thought we were very good at times & Bournemouth were one of the worst sides I have seen at St Marys this season. I would give Boufal a game on Wednesday, giving him 15-20 mins here & there doesn't help. Tadic looks favourite to leave in the summer so give Boufal a chance.
2


vanmans added 13:36 - Apr 2

Total Rubbish. We need to clear out some of the very average players and buy better replacements. What has happened to Clasie he was starting to look good. Why does he keep taking Tadic off without he we don't create anything. Must sell Boufal in the summer he is a total waste of space. Must be time to start Caceres.
5


NeilF added 21:40 - Apr 2

The football at times on Saturday was a pleasure to watch where Saints were passing it around with ease. It seems they had focused more on that in the training sessions. In the first half, we were breaking through Bournemouth with ease. Now, it would be great to continue this summary of the game with more positives but without goals it is pointless. All we needed was to bring on Bill Murray to complete “Groundhog Day”. I am sure Jay Rodriguez told Claude Puel when they first met that he was a forward; the sad thing is we need a goal scorer. Let’s forget “striker, forward, attacking midfielder”, players should add the prefix ‘goal scoring’ in front of their position if they really mean it!!. Primarily though, I just feel the fans thought we had got over this playing well and getting nothing. What must Gabbiadini have thought when he watched the match, watching those missed chances. One last mention goes out to those fans who once again left early. It was 0-0 and Saints had a chance.
0


perazi added 09:17 - Apr 6

Much better second half paved the way for an impressive win. Tadic, Redmond and Romeu outstanding - I've really warmed to Redmond; he has come on as the season has worn on. Shane Long did some good things and could have had at least a couple; his finishing let's him down. Cedric played well and so did Yoshida; let's have no more bagging of Maya - he's a genuine Prem CB.
3


TimSaint added 12:16 - Apr 6

Much improved performance and had we had either of our 2 preferred strikers on the pitch, we could have won by a hatful. Typically though, in the Saints way, early pressure doesn't get converted into goals, we concede on the counter and make it hard work for ourselves.

Great team spirit and constantly put Palace under pressure and created some fantastic chances.

Persistance paid off and we got the important win that our performance deserved.

Not sure where they dig these officials up from though. Absolutely awful decisions for both sides. How he didn't see Schlupp's scoop when it was right in front of him was unbelievable and he bottled it when Long was about to shoot but got felled. Perhaps he thinks Long has previous ? Was a pen and a red card for me. Yes Davis fouled Zaha for our first goal, but he was letting similar challenges from Benteke go all night, so justice was served.

Special mention to Tadic, for creating an abundance of chances, Romeu for his usual performance, Cedric for a great show (Pied to pressure him into his best performances?) and Redmond - please do what you are capable of, all game, not just in fits and starts ;-)
3


Harbour added 08:10 - Apr 8

Cracking game can see Brighton are a class side but we held them well for 60 minutes and went behind to a mistake. Then the free kick unstoppable but was it a free kick? Ravel and Robbo did ok given the lack of game time but as a result we were a bit slow in the build ups.. did wince a bit to see 7 changes but given three games in 7 days and need to try out players can see why Ollie was shuffling the pack. The subs made big difference and Freeman has a lot of quality great corner for smith to climb above the Brighton defence for great goal bit unlucky not to get the equaliser given the pressure in last 15 mins. Good atmosphere in near full LR under the lights
0


aceofthebase added 17:51 - Apr 8

Not too sure who was MOM. Yoshi for outstanding play and leadership of his defence or Forster who made some great saves towards the end or perhaps a good game by Clasie and a top rate strike to get the winner.

Well done CP for getting that team together, rotations earlier in the year meant that all newcomers were mentally and physically ready to start.

An outstanding performance by Saints for the majority of the game and I think that Maya gets the nod, what a great performance
3


TimSaint added 23:36 - Apr 8

Great win. Played the Baggies at their own game at times, but thoroughly deserved with some excellent passing, possession and movement.
Yes we virtually invited the Alamo for the last 15 mins with the somewhat lightweight subtitutions, but we held out with our 3rd and 4th choice central defenders, 3rd choice striker, 3rd and 4th choice central midfielders and 3 subs all way down the pecking order.
Back to the Vine to watch the National, where I had 1st place and a cheeky each way on Saint Are :-)

Good day indeed and looking forward to the run in
1


aceofthebase added 00:39 - Apr 9

Also each way on Saint Are. Good day all round!
1


Toffeemanc added 19:51 - Apr 22

R
0


codge added 22:19 - Apr 25

Two words for our defense Organized Chaos, that is all l have to say.
5


pete_boggs added 23:25 - Apr 25

The only light at the end of the tunnel is that Ward-Prowse was subbed for the third time. Perhaps Puel will want to unload him to a Championship Club in the summer and replace him with a more effective player who can defend a bit and cause the opponents a bit of bother. Oh and get at least three defenders in.
6


SanMarco added 00:23 - Apr 26

I wa delighted with how things were going with half time seconds away - then JWP and the centre off our defence allowed another soft goal and that was that. You can't compete with the very best if you can't defend.

Other than the defending I thought we looked alright. Replace JWP with a bloke that can tackle + both CBs with better players and we would be doing alright in games like this. It is ESSENTIAL that only VVD goes in the summer. With the right replacements we could be looking good...
11


DPeps added 09:10 - Apr 26

Issues with the defence, and problems with the amount of protection given to the defence. I imagine yoshida will come in for some stick, but our midfield let Chelsea through too much.

As a more general point, our lack of quality is most clearly shown against the top teams this season. Some of our starting eleven aren't quite up to the challenge in these games, which is a shame because we've previously given the top teams a hard time.
3


sidsaint added 10:17 - Apr 26

I was pleased to see that we didn't "park the bus" but take Chelsea on and contribute to an open game of football. Some of our passing and movement was attractive, but we also showed how far off the top premier clubs we still are. The defense was poor but if we still had VVD we would have been better organised. It's a pity we didn't give Caceres a run out to see what he is like. It's beginning to look as if he will only be used if our centre backs get injured which is a shame. I was pleased to see Boufal given a start, he has talent which has to be harnessed for the good of the team. There is still a gulf between us and the top but Puel has shown we can play good football at times , however there are areas that need to be strengthened.
4


vanmans added 10:23 - Apr 26

We all knew saints make do defence would let us down against Chelsea and they were torn apart by top players. Even Dave Merrington on Radio Solent said that Yoshida and Stephens were not good enough against top teams. I thought Boufal had his best game. Why does Puel keep playing JWP he gave nothing last night and was at fault for their second goal. Clasie would have been a better option he scored a goal then gets dropped for then next two games. What has happened to Forster he had another nightmare.
4


codge added 17:10 - Apr 29

Surely these players should be embarrassed to take a paycheck for this performance. Seems that a few were looking ahead to were they might be playing next season.The lack of commitment shown today was awful only Romeu and Stephens also Davis seemed to be show any interest, one of the worst displays this year.
7


deanosfc8 added 17:26 - Apr 29

There has been the odd performance this year that says give Puel a chance but today with that absolute rubbish! Losing at home to City I can take, losing at Chelsea I can take but this was Hull City at home!! This has to be our worse performance of the year & we have seen some dire crap. Why can we not change the system? It didnt work after an hour why like for like on the subs? I was in Puels corner but now Iv had enough! Whats with Tadic taking penalties? even Tadic knew he was gonna miss!!!
6


pete_boggs added 17:30 - Apr 29

Garbage
8


halftimeorange added 18:26 - Apr 29

Here is my report...............sorry, there was nothing to report.
1


NeilF added 19:31 - Apr 29

Utter rubbish! The players should use their salaries to pay the families back who paid so much money for that diabolical example of entertainment. There was a guy with his wife and two daughters in front of me. How many hours work must he have done to pay for today's day out? Will they ever come again? Saints made Hull look far superior! And Hull were awful!

What was the dressing room talk about? Puel asking which hotel in Dubai is the best? Their minds were certainly somewhere else.

I feel sorry for Manolo. Puel set up the team to not supply Gambiadini with any telling balls then takes him off to put on Long who has forgotten how to score and they do not give him service either (he would miss anyway). What is the point?

Puel spoke in the week about Boufall needing to be nurtured and that he needed time. This was Hull, the game was there for him to put in a masterclass but no he is just the same as he has been all season. Losing numerous ball and doing nothing then coming off does not justify £17 million whatever Puel says. But then, Puel takes him off and puts on Sims who also flatters to deceive and another player who loses the ball easily. Again, what is the point?

The players and Puel should be embarrassed with that performance. You do win some, lose some, draw some but to show a total lack of eagerness to do anything and Puel showing inept tactics at Premiership level is tantamount to showing contempt to the fans and for the high profile job he has got.

I just hope they can sit well on those Dubai beaches thinking back at today’s performance. But this is stupid, as they drive away in their brand new cars they have already forgotten about it.
7


SaintBrock added 20:45 - Apr 29

The Beach Boys!
3


dirk_doone added 21:00 - Apr 29

Today's performance v Hull was full of personality. The makeup of the team had Les Reed's personality stamped all over it and the way they played was pure Claude Puel. It was almost as if Les and Claude's interviews had been translated into a football performance out there on the St Mary's pitch.
5


Natedog added 00:19 - Apr 30

I think that we looked on holiday today as well bar Romeu, Stephens, Davis and maybe Cedric. Forster's kicking is shocking and he never looks comfortable. Yoshida loses the ball way too easily and gets beaten in defence. Boufal and Redmond just give the ball away and look disinterested and Tadic is just shocking and doesn't do anything. Tadic moans and says not too sub him off and then he misses the penalty. He is past it and needs to be sold whilst we can still get some money for him as he doesn't do anything most of the time now. Gabbiadini is isolated and did what he could with his running however his touch looked a little off today too. That's maybe because he had an extremely limited amount of touches. In the end Hull deserved to win and we were lucky to get a point in the end as Hull seriously wanted it more and maybe should have had a penalty of their own in stoppage time.

Puel has taken the decision to drop JWP which concerned me because he is our best set piece taker and nobody else can beat the first man. Also, Prowsey is the carrion of our midfield. I don't understand Puel as he dropped Clasie after scoring and then he dropped Prowsey. He is inconsistent and it is decisions like this that make me question his ability. All managers are different and I was on his side but I don't understand many things he does nowadays and nor does most fans. The fact that he brought on J Rod and Long instead of Prowsey concerned me because as much as I love them, surely they cannot be in our long term plans as they need to be sold and have not scored enough goals.

I think that we will only become more disinterested as we have nothing to play for and Puel doesn't seem to be able to get them motivated. The one game that we defended half decently in, we didn't look like scoring at all really. The penalty miss summed it up really. I am willing to give Puel a bit of next season but we really need to keep VVD, Romeu, Bertrand, Cedric, JWP and sign a few decent players to because the consistency is alarming this season and we don't want to be dragged into a dog fight at the bottom next season. I think that we can only get better from today and Puel really needs to have a word with them all and especially certain individuals. The motivation now is to finish 8th and hopefully above Bournemouth. That is the key to getting more of a prize fund and Puel convincing the fans that he can take us forward, as top 10 and a cup final is good in my opinion.
0


Natedog added 00:19 - Apr 30

I think that we looked on holiday today as well bar Romeu, Stephens, Davis and maybe Cedric. Forster's kicking is shocking and he never looks comfortable. Yoshida loses the ball way too easily and gets beaten in defence. Boufal and Redmond just give the ball away and look disinterested and Tadic is just shocking and doesn't do anything. Tadic moans and says not too sub him off and then he misses the penalty. He is past it and needs to be sold whilst we can still get some money for him as he doesn't do anything most of the time now. Gabbiadini is isolated and did what he could with his running however his touch looked a little off today too. That's maybe because he had an extremely limited amount of touches. In the end Hull deserved to win and we were lucky to get a point in the end as Hull seriously wanted it more and maybe should have had a penalty of their own in stoppage time.

Puel has taken the decision to drop JWP which concerned me because he is our best set piece taker and nobody else can beat the first man. Also, Prowsey is the carrion of our midfield. I don't understand Puel as he dropped Clasie after scoring and then he dropped Prowsey. He is inconsistent and it is decisions like this that make me question his ability. All managers are different and I was on his side but I don't understand many things he does nowadays and nor does most fans. The fact that he brought on J Rod and Long instead of Prowsey concerned me because as much as I love them, surely they cannot be in our long term plans as they need to be sold and have not scored enough goals.

I think that we will only become more disinterested as we have nothing to play for and Puel doesn't seem to be able to get them motivated. The one game that we defended half decently in, we didn't look like scoring at all really. The penalty miss summed it up really. I am willing to give Puel a bit of next season but we really need to keep VVD, Romeu, Bertrand, Cedric, JWP and sign a few decent players to because the consistency is alarming this season and we don't want to be dragged into a dog fight at the bottom next season. I think that we can only get better from today and Puel really needs to have a word with them all and especially certain individuals. The motivation now is to finish 8th and hopefully above Bournemouth. That is the key to getting more of a prize fund and Puel convincing the fans that he can take us forward, as top 10 and a cup final is good in my opinion.
0


saintandy11 added 09:32 - Apr 30

Easiest match report ever. Kicked off, Half time. Kicked off, missed a penalty, Full time.
0


Harbour added 10:25 - Apr 30

Awful first half we were great second half up to going 2-0 up then stopped playing but for smithies might have ended up drawing but NF were awful...apart from that nice day out went on stadium tour before game would recommend it.
0


sidsaint added 10:57 - Apr 30

For those of us considering renewing our season ticket???????
4


Allan60 added 23:21 - Apr 30

Referee was having a good game until he was conned in to giving away the penalty, by Rashford.
0


garethhartwell added 16:07 - May 2

Most of the Saints players showed a lack of desire and too many mistakes for much of the game. (Though there were a few sparks for some of them.) Positive note was that the defending wasn't bad, and Remeu (predictably) and Stephens (refreshingly) had good games. Boufal, Tadic and Redmond were surprisingly ineffectual.
0


Ynotajack added 22:10 - May 6

Fantastic result but could not believe morons around me booing Ash.Did a fantastic job for his long career with Swans and always played for the shirt.Once a Jack always a Jack.
0


pete_boggs added 16:34 - May 7

First time I've ever seen a result with no football match.
4


pete_boggs added 16:34 - May 7

First time I've ever seen a result with no football match.
1


SaintBrock added 18:14 - May 7

This was simply awful once again if this is the new Southampton Way then we'll win more points from dull-fest draws than friends from our fast attractive football. Puel in desperation mode and it ain't pretty.
2


aceofthebase added 20:22 - May 7

You have to fight for every point against the top teams and what a great fight by Saints. This sort of game is never pretty but there were some exceptional performances by our defence. We were a well drilled team and for once Forster earned his paycheck.

I can understand the frustration of some that we could not attack more but sometimes the opposition dictate how the game is played, the skill is denying them goals and that is what happened today
-2


rjh added 20:27 - May 7

I thought this was a decent point. Well done Puel and the lads. Every game has not been like this, Chelsea away - all the pundits were saying how we were so easy on the eye; we can play when we want to and defend when we need to.
I think we are a much better side away from home. Top half plus cup final is a good season.
0


codge added 21:52 - May 7

Have to admit that it was not pretty but all in all the one thing the team showed a lot of spirit which has been missing of late.
What a difference it makes when Forster moves of his line and commands his area big difference, still not seeing the best out of Boufal yet but l believe he will prove to be a good signing in the end.ln the end a good point even if it was not pretty for the purists
0


larry12 added 22:15 - May 7

A turgid schittefest by 2 awful teams. Prowse and Davis will not be replaced by Les Reed and Saints will not have any ability to get service to Manolo while that midget tosser is in charge. Sack that tosser Les Reed and replace those two League rubbish players.
0


richsaints added 06:35 - May 8

Ha Ha they keep trying to nick our best players and paying us millions for it and we still manage to mug them joking aside dull as dishwater two great saves late on to grab the point but we look a side with nothing left to play for.
3


NayDaze added 13:44 - May 8

Possibly the worst QPR match I have been to, not because of the result as actually Norwich werent that good either, but the sheer lack of invention & ideas from the halfway line forward, and the lack of committed, purposeful defending from the halfway line back. On this abject display I wouldnt trust any one of these players to sweep my driveway let alone kick a ball.

Worst than that the soppy c#nts then had the audacity to come over at the end (half heartedly and not in too many numbers either I might add -rather like the last playoff final!) and 'applaud' the fans, with only marginal more commitment & gusto to this than they did in playing the match.

If this second tier of professional football, then I'm sorry ITS FINISHED. Disgraceful!

If this second tier of professional football, then I'm sorry ITS FINISHED.
0


halftimeorange added 23:07 - May 10

Dear Manolo,

I quite understand why you want a transfer but I can assure you that your colleagues have all had the requisite IQ and eye tests and have, without fail, been passed. With all due respect, perhaps those beguiling runs you make are so well disguised that your team mates do not recognise and, consequently do not react to them. May I suggest that you need to learn to play the Southampton way. Be more obvious! Anyway, you must fulfil your contract at least until the end of this season and we'll see if any bids come in for you.

Yours,

Les
6


saintandy11 added 00:58 - May 11

When did we become so BORING to watch?

Still we did manage to get atleast one shot on target so we must be improving!!!!!!!!!

My guess for the team to play Man Ure is 10 Goalkeepers and Gabbiadini up front.
2


SaintBrock added 08:01 - May 11

Thoroughly enjoyable match but inevitably we ran out of steam simply because it was impossible to keep up this pace for 90 minutes. This style of play fast, exciting and good on the eye, demands we score decisively early on as inevitably the gas tanks will be empty towards the end.

Last night we lasted about 65/70 minutes and then it was over for our lads. Romeu particularly suffered after 70 mins when he started misplacing passes and tackles and making mistakes of judgement and positioning. He was absolutely spent and this took away the central defensive cover for the CBs. Once they were exposed to Sanchez and later Giroud it was game over. At least we gave it a go but the best team lost when they did not deserve to do so.
5


jonrog added 08:04 - May 11

After 35 matches when will Puel learn that Redmond ANO Tadic does not work
0


TimSaint added 12:45 - May 11

We huffed and puffed and created a few chances, shading the first half, but the woeful Tadic fluffed the best chance and Czech saved well from Gab's follow up. Redmond was also a bit unlucky with a long range pile driver.
After the break and especially after they scored, we just capitulated and still didn't create too much - even with such an attacking line up. Too many unforced errors and wayward passing, running into trouble and going backwards unnecessarily.
When you have 3 or 4 either not interested or playing poorly, it is difficult for the rest of the team to compensate for the full 90 mins. Just how some remained on the pitch for the 90 was bizarre, but hey, we can only make 3 changes !!
We got stretched at the back and were out-muscled once Giroud came on, so the second goal was inevitable.
Another blank at home and we are left thinking that it was yet another performance as good as Sanchez taking throw-ins !!
7


Consigliere added 13:45 - May 11

A false dichotomy is when you are asked to choose between two unacceptable alternatives: For example it is sometimes said that "T'is better to die on your feet than to live on your knees". In football terms we often hear that "Its better to draw a game playing boringly than to lose playing excitingly". Both however represent the position of mediocrity and lack of ambition and in the end, both will kill you. The true test is that is better to live on your feet than to die on your knees, and better to win playing exciting football than to lose playing safe. The route to living rather than death and the route to winning not losing is being prepared to aim for success (even at the risk of failure). Ambition never killed anybody.

So, I took quite a few positives from this match (and not just because I suffered the borefest that was the Hull game and therefore start from a very low base). The team played well overall and there was a clear statement of intent to try to win. We had more shots in the first half than for several of our last games, and drew a fine save Cech. It was a very open game and with rather better finishing we should have scored two or three times. We were playing against a very serious and well-organised opponent and they scored one excellent and one world-class goal against us. True it is that we rather ran out of puff towards the end of the second half, and that there were some uncharacteristic mistakes from the likes of Romeu but the overall set-up and performance was quite good.

For me, the jury is indeed still out on Puel but if he hopes to win over the fans, performances like this rather than the negativity of the play against Hull and Chelsea is a start.
3


pete_boggs added 13:59 - May 11

Puel was supplied a squad when he arrived by Les.

Puel tried to play his way (diamond) but the squad did not have the technical ability.

Puel has not got a squad of decent players has tried all methods but players have failed.

Puel will be off as soon as he is paid off.

Next manager will be exactly the same.

Reed is the problem. Retire ASAP before you take us down next season.
1


aceofthebase added 19:41 - May 13

I wouldn'tmind the same team starting for the next two games. Pied and Caceras fitted in well and always a chance that Boufal will mesmerise the opposition with Redmond on as needed. Good one Puel. What is it about our spot kickers?
1


codge added 00:31 - May 14

Was glad to see Caceres and Pied thought they pled very well, as a whole considering 7 changes a decent result.Hope we see more of them in the last two games, glad for Jay to get on the score board again.Redmond showed what he can do all we need is some consistency although a little late for it now, overall a good result let's keep it going wednesday night.
1


codge added 22:36 - May 17

How we can be so bad taking penalties l don't know, we used to have the best in lambo and le Tiss now we can't hit one to save our lives.Do they practice taking them or not surely they do and why not JWP to take them.
3


Bettwsresident added 09:37 - May 18

I had read and heard this am that this was a boring tedious 0-0. Not so, first half was quiet but the second half was edge of the seat as we played some superb football and created chance after chance. Romero pulled off 2 world class saves and Jay rod missed a golden opportunity. The game got stretched in teh 2nd half as both sides tried to win it and Stephens was superb in mopping up, snuffing out all but 1 counter attack.
This stat summed it up from the BBC site
"Southampton had six shots on target - only Tottenham (seven on Sunday) have had more in a match against Manchester United this season in all competitions"

I just hope and pray that our luck in front of goal turns and we batter stoke to finish off what has been a stop start, but very memorable season in style.
-5


TimSaint added 11:29 - May 18

Missing the early pen took the sting out of our approach and the game was played at training session speed thereafter.
United were there for the taking and clearly didn't want to be there, or care about the result, as all they are focused on is the Europa final. So no surprise that we created some chances and even less of a surprise that we didn't manage to score.
Very frustrating night yet again. Not only from the referee checking all the Man U players were ok after tackles, but Bailly wasting at least 10 mins on his own and Saints stooping to their level.
I don't know what they are told to do at training, but the emphasis seems very much on not conceding, rather than gambling even in the last 10 mins or so, to try and win the game. It was almost played like both managers had pre-agreed a 0-0. Why no urgency or direct play ? This can only come from one place !! The fans were crying out for some attacks !!
18 league games at home, 17 goals scored (9 v Palace, Burnley and Leicester) so that is 8 in the other 15 games. Goals not only change, but win games and our chances to goals conversion rate is the worst in the league.
2


SaintBrock added 14:44 - May 18

Poor first half, better second. Tired, end of season performance, does nobody care anymore? Disturbing touchline bust-up betrayed behind the scenes turmoil. End of an era, surely. Hope Ryan's absence was a groin strain as Puel suggested.
1


pete_boggs added 17:15 - May 21

Thank god for that the season's over!
7


larry12 added 17:25 - May 21

Claude will be out tomorrow. The problem is now Vice Chairman and Ralph Kreuger is an imbecile. You could not make it up. 450+ mins with no goals. To be continued in mid August.
Luckily I will save myself £570.
6


SanMarco added 18:09 - May 21

The last thing Puel needed was another nil. I have given up worrying whose fault the lack of goals is but I do expect we will be looking for a new manager come early next week...
7


DPeps added 18:24 - May 21

Cow's backside, banjo, etc.
How have we finished 8th? Best league in the world?!
7


petedoors1 added 18:53 - May 21

After that total crap today it must be PUEL OUT. He is clueless. Just dosent know how to motivate the team or change to a different system. Just does like for like substitutions.
6


SaintBrock added 19:14 - May 21

Awful end to an awful season.
6


codge added 19:20 - May 21

Just stuck for words to describe this season at least nothing that you can put in print.A season on paper looking at 8th in the league and a cup final dosn't really tell the whole story of how disappointing this campaign has really been. Positions that were so obvious to have been filled were left and never were, if ever a team needs a new direction it's my beloved Saints, 46 points 8th place is not a success.
8


Crodney999 added 19:22 - May 21

Too many players not up for it. Not playing for the manager?
6


saintandy11 added 21:03 - May 21

Dull, boring and insipid. We have gone from a team that last season took Arsenal and Man City apart to a team that was out played by Hull!!!!!!!!!!
Only positive I can find is that the roadworks will be finished before the start of the next season (hopefully)
4


bigrob68 added 22:59 - May 21

boring
4


SaintGeorge added 09:15 - May 22

A summer with no Euros or WC and a welcome break from rubbish football - that was one of the dullest seasons I can remembe
2


TimSaint added 11:57 - May 22

Another game - another blank !! I think everyone thought this would be 0-0, but from a Saints perspective, at least over 31,000 turned up to see it.

Same old story. We create chances, don't score and then get sucker-punched.

Good to see Charlie back and he actually did a lot more running than I expected and oh how different the game may have been if he had converted a chance or two - still he is rustier than most !! Redmond should have scored though, but hit the bar, Gabi, JWP and Davis all had great chances but a combination of poor finishing and great keeping meant another blank.

Stoke rarely threatened though and seemed more intent on wasting as much time as possible. Especially Butland taking goal kicks and Shaqiri going down at every opportunity. Bizarre that we left Crouch at the far post with just Cedric marking him. Jack or Yosh should have picked him up - or as it was in the 6 yard box, FF should have come and punched !!

Upon reflection, at least we tried a bit more to score than we have in our last 4 or 5 games, but it was still a game with no urgency, directness or determination - the players are still on the beach and have been for many weeks now, since we got to 38/40 points. This I fear is down to the manager and his motivational skills - followed up with truly awful post match press conferences.

How we stumbled to 8th I will never know, but the reality is, we finished above Bournemouth on goal difference. West Ham had an awful season in their new stadium, but finished ONE point behind us !! The same can be said for Leicester who were in a relegation fight for a lot of the season and were only 2 points behind us !! Swansea were in the bottom 3 all season and had 3 managers and were only 5 points below is !! Everton were so far in front of us it is embarrassing !!

Yes we got to a Cup Final, but didn't win it, didn't take Europa seriously (I went to homes plus Milan and Prague away), threw ourselves on our own sword in the FA Cup and with so many changes throughout the whole season, ruined our chances of qualifying for Europe again. Extremely disappointing, something must be done to address this - but regardless I've renewed and will still give the boys my support !!

2


calvinw123 added 23:45 - Aug 5

Tight game. Dale looked like they were controlling it until Keane was sent off. A few players weren't at their best today whilst others, especially Kgosi played very well. Lapse of concentration in the 46th minute and a good quality goal at the death the only difference between the team's - May have been very different without Keane's sending off.
0


francisbowles added 11:56 - Aug 6

Amazingly open and at times end to end game. More entertainment in the first eight mins than we have seen in a long time. Some important covering by Ned early on, on another day we could have been in a spot more bother. Don't want to put a dampener on it though, a very good performance all 'round and a great start.

Midfield pressing, in particular was excellent kept winning the ball back and pushing forward. Top marks to Ollie for getting this selection spot on. Mackie, Washington and Wsolek just need to shoot/ cross a little quicker but that should come with confidence.
0


geraldo added 18:56 - Aug 12

Boring game and 2 points dropped First half poor mainly because of Hills team selection. Davies enlivened things up when he came on but why take Rathbone off and leave Brown on - he is not good enough for this level
What has happened to our star signing ( Williams)?
0


Letiss7 added 19:29 - Aug 12

A really solid performance, marred by some wayward finishing by the Saints. We moved the ball around well, with plenty of of the play switching from one side to the other. The higher pressing we employed from the first minute onwards, unsettled Swansea from playing from the back with any real effect . The were many turnarounds of play for Saints, due to this continual pressing, therefore preventing the Swansea players any time to get into a rhythm of any sorts.
Individually Jack Stephens continues to improve with each game, and as most fans are now realising is a class act. A promising start, and nine times of of ten we would have won comfortably.
0


pete_boggs added 01:06 - Aug 13

Zzzzzzzzz
0


SaintBrock added 10:12 - Aug 13

Good start, enjoyable to watch. We look sharper and quicker than last season. Swansea looked poor and a class below us.
3


SaintBrock added 21:48 - Aug 19

Tedious, scrappy affair spoilt by incessant stoppages for fouls, injuries and players squaring up to each other. What was obvious is that we do not have the players to work Pellegrino's preferred style of fast forward attacking play. We were outclassed in the air at the back and in their penalty area and for pace today and one or two players had stinkers.

Redmond was poor apart from his early assist that flattered to deceive, otherwise Zabaletta had him in his pocket all afternoon. How can he be preferred over Boufal is beyond me. Bertrand just couldn't be rrsed to get up to speed, in fact he looked hacked off all afternoon and clearly wasn't concentrating on his job for their first goal. Cedric was getting a right battering from the ex-Stoke thug who was sent off and didn't seem to settle after that.

Yoshida, Tadic and Romeu were our best and most determined players and Forster had a decent game.

Too much whistle from the ref who just seemed to want to intervene even on robust but otherwise fair tackles. The lino called the red card incident and both pens.
4


aceofthebase added 22:35 - Aug 19

SaintBrock that's a fair description of the game and players performances. The only point is I saw no evidence of 'Pellegrinos preferred style of fast forward attacking'. That is maybe what the fans want to see but we saw a slow build-up again and again, sideways backwards and then exasperation as they face a perfectly organised defence.
3


sidsaint added 07:59 - Aug 20

Typical game against the hammers who lived up to their name. Noble should also have been sent off and we were lucky that Jack's hand ball wasn't penalised. Disappointed so far after 2 games with Redmond and Bertrand who are off the boil compared to last season. Gabby tries to find the gaps Cedric's shooting is dire and I wish we had a poacher like Fernandes. Can't see much evidence of high pressing game but some nice football played in the build up. All in all 6 out of ten so far. Interested in team selection for Wednesday.
1


QPRski added 08:14 - Aug 20

An entertaining match that demonstrated the new character and determination of the team. There should be a score for the manager, as Ollie's substitutions were key to the result. I am not sure if they were planned or simply improvised, but they were effective and got the result. Well done to Ollie and the whole team.
0


Harbour added 09:50 - Aug 20

A very enjoyable game and we were very unlucky to go a goal down first half had freeman taken that well worked opportunity and they were a bit lucky for their goal. Great second half performance and superb subs from OH got the result we deserved and could have been 3 if connor had taken chance at the end credit to Lua Lua playing after his father died very brave. On Lua Lua not sure how he won so many free kicks he just went over and the ref blew . Great performance from perch and Luongo . Hull look like a team in trouble
0


SaintNick added 10:21 - Aug 20

If you are going to press high up the field and commit players to attack then you have to be confident of being able to defend against teams that can come at you at sped on the counter, can we say we are confident of that at the moment ?

Lemina in the side will help that and get Hoedt in and it will make a big difference, get Van Dijk in as well and we will be a decent side
2


Consigliere added 10:26 - Aug 20

In my view, the way to analyse this game is to first consider the situation if we hadn't been given a penalty award in the last moments of the game.

Had that been the scenario then I suspect that the conclusion would have been exactly as SaintBrock and Ace have set out, namely that far too much side passing and allowing the other side to reorganise their defence whilst we tried this way and that to get through the wall had cost us the game. This was never going to work against a big, physical and pretty dirty team like W Ham especially with their ever present threat on the counter with Antonio. There is no point in playing pretty football (and there is no doubt, some of it was easy on the eye) if you don't open up the other side's defence.

Even so, there were still a few glimmers of light towards the latter part of the second half especially after Long came on, with some racy attacks down the flanks and a more direct style, but it took the efforts of Yoshida (who I noticed went up front several times in the last 10 minutes to try to boost the attack) to get us over the line. A bit of a soft penalty but that is hardly the point, he and JWP combined to make the sort of direct attack that should have unlocked this game (against 10 men) a lot sooner.
5


larry12 added 11:58 - Aug 20

Shiite lineup to start. Davis is now not good enough even for the bench.
No midfield as ad infinitum. Dreary borefest. Redmond, Tadic dog awful. Clasie and Hojberg ARE better than Mr Plod and Davis and Pelligreno is a moron for not seeing that. Stephens was constantly ball watching and is therefore not good enough to start at all. Yoshida doing the job of the forwards. Cedric shoots and misses til 2050. Saints do not get that pass quite right by 3000 times. Need 3 more Lemina's. As said Bertrand? I hope Cedric and Bertrand end up at Chelsea. At least Plug and Mcqueen try. Compared with that rubbish yesterday, I am looking forward to hitting my little toe against some furniture.
-4


RogerToye added 16:52 - Aug 20

should put games to bed however scored more than we shipped
1


Harbour added 07:38 - Aug 23

Oh dear after the Lord Mayors show the cart horse. So many changes and team did not appear to understand the formation and for the first half this resulted in a car crash of a performance.Baptiste and Caulker struggled with pace of Brentford forwards. But for some great saves from Matt Ingram it could have been 5-1 in the first half. Second half much better and we really should have got the second to make a game of it . Used to going out the cup but to be thrashed by that lot embarrassing.
0


insanesaint added 08:24 - Aug 24

The game was shocking and awful. Manager got the wrong formation at the start. Took to long to change it. Tadic was not at the races Austin is not a channel runner. To slow moving forward to much sideways backwards. A complete opposite of Saturday. Hopefully just a shit game and learn from this quickly.
6


dirk_doone added 08:57 - Aug 24

Only 2 of our players looked good enough and motivated enough to match Wolves Reserve team last night: Yoshida and Romeu. The rest were comprehensively outfought and outplayed. The good news is we won't have to face teams as good as Wolves Reserves every week or have Ward-Prowse in the team every week.

One of the key reasons why we lost last night and have failed to score in so many games in recent months is Ward-Prowse. He stops all of our prmomising attacks before they can get going by standing with the ball, looking back, waiting for the opposition defence to regroup and then passing sideways or backwards. He also ensures that any goalscoring opportunites we get from set pieces, like the free-kick we had just in front of the Wolves penalty area, are wasted. Last night he seemed to have added a new trick to his game: messing up our defence by dummying that he is going to tackle and then letting the opponent through. This stops defenders who might have got a tackle in from doing so. When Lemina was on instead of Ward-Prowse v West Ham, our midfield was transformed, as he made quick incisive forward passes and helped Romeu out with the tackling duties. If Lemina plays v Huddersfield, we'll see a different Saints team; if Ward-Prowse plays, it will be the same as last night.
13


dirk_doone added 09:03 - Aug 24

One other thing: we all knew that Bednarek was going to be cr@p. He was. His mistakes gave Wolves several chances to score early in the game. We were lucky that Dicko wasted them. I was surprised that Pellegrino didn't stake him Bednarek off earlier than he did, to save us from further punishment. If Bednarek plays against top Premier League strikers, we'll get thrashed.
8


SaintBrock added 09:20 - Aug 24

Not good at all.
Are the players listening to Pellegrino?
Do we practice these new formations much in training?
Why such a laissez faire attitude even in the warm up?
Has Les placed Europa League qualification above everything else in importance this season?
What good is depth without quality?
6


SaintBrock added 09:24 - Aug 24

Surely it is time to say goodbye to Ward Prowse? He has become a liability and one can only hope that Pellegrino has the bottle to stand up to Les or whoever it is that has Ward Prowse's back.
9


Slacker added 09:26 - Aug 24

Wolves deserved the win. Wasted chances again. Lone striker does not produce goals.

4 2 3 1 formation leaves Gabbiadini to score on Saturday - not the right balance.
3


pete_boggs added 10:03 - Aug 24

Shite
5


Jesus_02 added 10:13 - Aug 24

Match didn't really get started did it.

I genuinely think that we would have performed better without Jan Bednarek. I'm not saying another player...basically we would have been better if he got sent off and we where playing with 10 men. There is obviously a chance that he will develop, but on that showing we have just thrown £6m (plus wages) down the drain

McQueen had a good go, Austin ran around a lot and It was sad but encouraging to see Stephens as frustrated with our negativity as everyone else.
5


Jesus_02 added 10:13 - Aug 24

Match didn't really get started did it.

I genuinely think that we would have performed better without Jan Bednarek. I'm not saying another player...basically we would have been better if he got sent off and we where playing with 10 men. There is obviously a chance that he will develop, but on that showing we have just thrown £6m (plus wages) down the drain

McQueen had a good go, Austin ran around a lot and It was sad but encouraging to see Stephens as frustrated with our negativity as everyone else.
2


TimSaint added 10:38 - Aug 24

We rarely threatened in the second half, content to pass it sideways around the half way line in a very Puelesque performance. Once the subs were made with 10-15 mins to go, we did at least try, but all too little to late and then once we got hit on the counter, it was game over.

FF - needs to control his box and defence, then stop ball watching
Pied - Can't pass, tackle, defend or cross
McQ - did alright, especially in the attack, but lacked the final ball
Jack - Average in defence, unlucky not to score
Bed - early issues seemed to get iron out, but goes to ground too often - back to U23s
Yosh - swept up well for early Pied and Bed errors but got turned by championship attackers all too easily. Unlucky with a well saved header.
Rom - ok but never took control like you would expect - booked
JWP - Far too negative, even when chasing the game. Gave possession away too often, creating all sorts of problems for us. Expect so much more from an England International who should be trying to impress after being dropped last weekend.
Bouf - Why was he even on the pitch? Not interested for 1st 25 mins, poor passing, drifting inside too often leaving McQ with no option down the line. Should have gone off far earlier.
Tad - frustrating performance again. Missed a 1-on-1 and a far post shot in the first half and failed to deliver when we were chasing the game.
Austin - huffed and puffed with not a lot to show for it. Not many decent balls for him to thrive on. Looked slower, despite his pre-match comments.
Sub Red - should have been on earlier. 1 decent shot just wide at the end
Sub Long - Needed more than 10 mins to do something
Sub Gabb - Got involved well, but couldn't really create a decent chance

This reminded me a little of life under Puel, or perhaps the Sheff Utd away performance under Koeman. Perhaps the manager will now know for sure (after Augsberg and Wolves) that our reserves (and some first teamers) are not really up to it and that another goal conceded from a set piece shows that we need more quality and leadership in defence. At least normal service at St Marys has been resumed - Southampton NIL !!
On to Huddersfield then - will be up in Yorkshire for it, so hope it won't be as lacklustre as tonight !!
4


Braveheart added 10:42 - Aug 24

Absolute and utter shite. How we can call ourselves a challenging Premier League club is beyond words. There is a rot at Saints and it needs to be sorted. If there is going to be any sense out of what's left of this window, then it should be to get a decent goalkeeper in. Forster is just not up to it. I would be very surprised if he gets an England call up. The fact that he never got a game in the last internationals says it all.
5


larry12 added 11:16 - Aug 24

Message for Nick. Could you please possibly arrange for minus scores, to a max of -5, be available for Prowse, Forster and Benarek?

The manager, whoever that is, can only play with the dross that Reed allows him. If you blame the manager all the time, you have not addressed the root cause. If you want change, it has to start with Reed and Kreuger.
4


calvinw123 added 18:55 - Aug 24

Maybe I need to stop going to away games. Been to Pompey, Shrewsbury and Stoke and missed Mansfield!
0


aceofthebase added 21:49 - Aug 24

Nick, Can we have a box to rate the manager's performance? Please ensure we can vote as low as minus 5
0


pete_boggs added 17:17 - Aug 26

Shite
1


larry12 added 17:45 - Aug 26

Today is the first game in Premier league history that a goalie had to put his hand on his knee to help his ponderous self off the ground. He is that muscle bound ponderous.
3


codge added 17:54 - Aug 26

Was it me or did any one else think that Bertrand looks so uninterested lately.Overall we were lucky and also we could of pulled out a win, l think we will start putting some descent results together although Tadic and a few others need to step up there game.Lemina looks a good buy looking for great things from his partnership with Romeu.
6


rjh added 19:30 - Aug 26

Can anyone honestly convince me things are any better than under Claude? Be careful what we wish for..............
3


dirk_doone added 19:30 - Aug 26

When you are reduced to bringing Ward-Prowse and Long on to try to win a game, you know you're not going to. There are too many medicore players like them in the squad now. Neverthless, the result was better than expcted after the Wolves debacle. What little quality we've got left is in the defensive midfield area. With Romeu and Lemina playing, we're not going to ship too many goals.
3


rjh added 19:31 - Aug 26

And yes, I agree, code, RB has looked totally fed up so far.
5


aceofthebase added 20:24 - Aug 26

There are still too many lightweights in the side. No matter how tough they play they get pushed off the ball and lose tackles and headers. Hoedt will give us some much-needed height, but who do we drop? It hurts me to say that Maya was a little slow in the second half and made a few errors
If we are to sit back and play in our own half then we must be lightning fast with our breaks but sadly this is not the case. It seems the first pass is behind or directly at the player and not a pass to go forward. The receiver then chooses to pass back or has to do a complete turn before proceeding and of course the opposition takes up their defensive formation.
It did seem in the last few minutes we played with more attacking aggression when Huddersfield players were tiring. I am not sure whether it was influenced by our subs
Finally, can JWP stop demanding the ball be played to him when he is either tightly marked or running back at speed to his own goal and other passes are available.
3


simmo400 added 09:21 - Aug 27

Both teams poor. Draw was about right. Redmond - Tadic - Cedric - Davis really poor.
3


EDLiner added 17:48 - Aug 29

I cannot believe we continue to play Redmond. Impact sub maybe but he is light on the ball, gets bullied, is a one shot pony who can only cut in and shoot and offer very little in crosses. Add to the fact that Davis is our captain but has the shooting ability of a blind squirrel and Tadic is about as much use as a tit on a fish and you can see why we can't score. Claude played the same way and isolated the striker with little or no service. No midfielders playing one twos with the striker and believing they will score. MP is doing exactly the same. It is like nothing has changed. Meanwhile Hjojberg and Clasie are ostracised. People slate JWP but at least he creates chances!
GK - McCarthy
LB - Targett
CB - Hoedt
CB - Yoshida
RB - Cedric
LM - McQueen
DM - Romeu
AM - Lemina
RM - JWP
CF - Austin
CF - Gabbi

At least it gives a chance for delivery and goals. Why is 4-4-2 such a dirty word? 4-2-3-1 is about as successful as a dart in a dingy.
0


pete_boggs added 17:44 - Sep 9

Shame we wasted 60 mins with JWP on the pitch.
9


Ali_Diarea added 17:45 - Sep 9

It's going to be a long boring season me thinks!
8


NewburySaint added 17:50 - Sep 9

WTF?!
5


mattthelegend added 18:28 - Sep 9

No penetration, no strength totally out muscled in midfield. Why are we playing with one up front at home against Watford"??????. One shot. Bored to tears already, still it could all change next week😂
8


codge added 18:43 - Sep 9

A poor performance all around, if this is all we have were up the creek.Can't see us scoring very many goals again at this rate, Gabi got no service at all and can't expect to score goals with the likes Boufal who at the moment is wasted space along with JWP. Completely outplayed all over the park, Hoedt look decent enough but overall pathetic.
8


dirk_doone added 18:55 - Sep 9

The club needs a major overhaul. We need to replace all the dead wood that has been allowed to accumulate: Les Reed, Eric Black, Dave Watson, Martin Hunter, Radhi Jaidi, Ross Wilson, James Ward-Prowse, Shane Long, Wesley Hoedt, Florin Gardos, Sofiane Boufal, Jan Bednarek etc. Replacing Jordy Clasie with Mario Lemina was one small step in the right direction and one of the few things we have got right in the last 2 years. Some drastic action in January can still keep us up. Let's hope Mr Gao doesn't have the wool pulled over his eyes by Old Les and takes the necessary action.
5


dirk_doone added 18:58 - Sep 9

OK, Wesley Hoedt needs to be given a bit longer, although I fear for him against one of the better teams like Man United, but the rest should be replace ASAP.
5


SaintBrock added 19:01 - Sep 9

It was a good match to miss and miss it I did thankfully. So no comment other than sheer disappointment on hearing the result.
7


NewburySaint added 19:06 - Sep 9

& to add to my earlier post unfortunately Forster now HAS to be dropped if McCarthy is fit even if to only "shake him"up".

Although they were 2 good strikes today Forster gets beaten way too many times, & too easily, from distance particularly from low shots.

I am a GK myself, albeit I only played at amateur level & now on a Sunday, but even I know where to position myself when expecting a strike from distance, & that is on the edge of your six yard box to narrow the angle, but if you look at Forster's position he is nearly always very close to the goal line & you stand next to no chance of saving a decent strike then.

& for me, if someone like myself with limited ability knows this how does a professional not know this or and have the technique to carry this out?
11


dirk_doone added 19:10 - Sep 9

Newbury, Fraser Forster used to be a very good goalkeeper before Dave Watson got to work on him. Forster deserves achance with a better coach.

PS I'd also add Nathan Remond to my list of dead wood we need to replace but not Forster yet. ALL of our goalkeepers seem to be getting worse under Dave Watson.
4


forallthesaints added 19:11 - Sep 9

This was awful. No clue about tactics. No one was making space and when space did appear for a player no one could make a pass. Watford fought from the start and won every second ball going. Saints resorted very quickly to hoofing it up the field towards a back four of giants who completely snuffed out Gabbiadini. He barely got a touch. Why Saints persist in playing one up front is beyond me. The midfield were running around like headless chickens. One or two players looked almost uninterested. Redmond continues to run himself into dark alleys and then tries to blame everyone else for the fact that he doesn't know what to do with it (shades of Puncheon - lots of talent but poor decision-making). The first goal came out of nowhere and was a cracking strike but the second should have been stopped. He took an age to tee it up and he was miles out - Forster was slow getting down and across. I'm seriously worried about Fraser - he seems to have no confidence - perhaps time to rest him for a bit and get his mojo back as he can be so dominant and impressive. Overall a dreadful performance - the worst I've seen Saints since before League 1. Seems Puel may have been harshly treated after all. I missed a couple of games because of work and because of that I haven't actually seen Saints score at home since February (we lost against West Ham) and Wembley was the last goal I've seen Saints score - March 1. Could be a long season if the lads and the manager don't pick it up soon as confidence will ebb away. Maybe a good time to go to Palace next week. Having said all that, I won't boo.
7


mikesaint added 20:05 - Sep 9

I
1


rochdaleriddler added 20:13 - Sep 9

Awful
1


TimSaint added 20:13 - Sep 9

Another woeful performance with only 4 shots created all game and only one of those on target - a 25-30 yarder from Cedric, who does not usually get his efforts on target !!
Poor midfield selection from the manager, as we got out-muscled with our lightweights and played so badly and negatively, we would have made most teams look great today.
Again like against Huddersfield, we only started to play with 15minutes to go, but this week, the game had already been lost by then.
I can only hope that the International games and travelling across different time zones had an affect on team selection today. Those players given their chance to shine (JWP and Boufal) failed miserably, as they did against Wolves. Learn the lesson please and drop them. They are supposed to create and take chances, but did neither and I'm still struggling to fathom out how Boufal got so much height on his shot in the second half, not long before he was subbed !!
Oh well, hopefully the manager will pick a team capable of winning at Palace and then we may have a bit of confidence as we start to play the big boys !!

Pete Boggs - JWP was subbed at Half Time, so was only on the pitch for 45 mins.
7


vanmans added 21:09 - Sep 9

JWP was subbed at Half Time, so was only on the pitch for 45 mins. THATS 45 MINUTES TO LONG.
Boufal looks a complete waste of money.
8


dirk_doone added 21:22 - Sep 9

Vanmans, we all know Ward-Prowse shouldn't be in the starting lineup v Premier League opposition. Why was he? Was it down to Pellegrino and Puel or did they take their orders from Les Reed. After all, Les Reed has told us we have the best pool of midfielders in the Premier League so why would we need to play someone as useless as Ward-Prowse?
9


TonyHongKong added 21:54 - Sep 9

Poorest side we've played this season. God, they have some keeper though. Guy should be playing for PSG or Barcelona!
0


RogerToye added 00:35 - Sep 10

:((((((((( wahhh Watford where the best i seen them caught us off guard. Some players had a chance to step up and were pushed off the ball boufal wants too much of the ball so does tadic headless chicken comes to mind. They could be the creative force but have to think better into final third and release the ball earlier, two up front please. Eric Black was part of Aston Villas disappearing act i cant see him supporting MP enough to help him get the right formation and tactics. I think it was same for Puel.. looked a good side on paper, but we are found wanting after international breaks. we need high press and not to sit to deep sideways crept in again today. Cant afford to keep looking at the best formation and giving players run outs best 11 and stick with it.
1


PezzaSaint added 07:59 - Sep 10

Pellegrino another Puel in interview, dull! And the common theme between the two of them is that their teams play football matches like their interviews, dull and boring! How come we missed out on Marco Silva? Whilst relegated with Hull he definitely showed signs of getting to grips with Premier league football. Yet we get another manager with no Premier league experience!! Common theme coming through from TUI over the first few weeks of the season that some players seem disinterested and this was the case at the end of last season to. Something not right? Perhaps the players want to play differently and are bored with our set up and style of play?
2


OldPedro added 08:46 - Sep 10

My first live game of the season. Really impressed with the midfield 3 of Scowen, Luongo and Freeman. Thought Luongo was really unlucky not to score - he had a couple of fantastic shots.
0


the_saint added 08:56 - Sep 10

The best team won today silva set his team up perfect and pressed and didn't allow us to play so you cannot take that away from them. Like most of us mentioned on here the end of last season to get silva. But hey what do we know.
As for us we looked out of sorts a tired lamina would have played better we really look like we are struggling to put mp ideas in place on the pitch but we have to give him time. With who we have played and only 5 points on board is not good and lose to palace and that will be worrying. On the plus side I really enjoyed my half time cheeseburger so saints are getting something right.
0


francisbowles added 09:34 - Sep 10

Luongo mom for me, turning into Diakite with a brain!

Alex Baptiste! WOW! Where did that performance come from? What happened to the timid starts we saw previously? Was it just shifting him to the right that made such a difference.

Ipswich poor side, start to season a bit of a fluke, keeper kept them in it....but....could've snatched a point if it hadn't been for Lua Lua. What a cameo, brilliant cross, won three free kicks and kept playing into the corner to Smith. Saw the game out!
0


Royboy48 added 10:26 - Sep 10

That's more like it

But still got to learn not to wobble after conceding a goal
0


the_saint added 11:24 - Sep 10

The best team won today silva set his team up perfect and pressed and didn't allow us to play so you cannot take that away from them. Like most of us mentioned on here the end of last season to get silva. But hey what do we know.
As for us we looked out of sorts a tired lamina would have played better we really look like we are struggling to put mp ideas in place on the pitch but we have to give him time. With who we have played and only 5 points on board is not good and lose to palace and that will be worrying. On the plus side I really enjoyed my half time cheeseburger so saints are getting something right.
1


centrestandswan added 18:29 - Sep 10

Swans could not penetrate a well organised defence, much do better.
0


Flashberryjack added 20:14 - Sep 10

Sh*t game between two sh*t teams, and the best sh*t team won.
0


Dewi1jack added 21:57 - Sep 10

Think I can forget about us being safe by Xmas and then going out and winning the FA Cup in May.
Seemed to be short on ideas of how to break down a terrible Newcastle side, who wanted to foul their way through the game as well as squad depth.
Could have done with the new players sooner than we got them, so as we could have got them up to speed.
Ah well.
Onwards and upwards- otherwise it's going to be a long old season
0


Whiteknight added 10:18 - Sep 11

In a word: gutless!
0


francisbowles added 09:41 - Sep 13

Difficult night, opponents all in your face, up for it and performing well. Difficult conditions with wind and rain and a complete prat of a referee. We couldn't settle, get any passing going, looked a lot like last season and had to thank Smithies from preventing a cricket score.

Then we got better, got a break with the sending off, overcame the setback of losing the skipper and a poorly conceded second goal, battled for every ball, got a bit of passing going and played our way back into the game. Something we didn't have much of last year and haven't seen this season yet. The comeback!

Well done lads, still uneaten at home
0


quickpassrotter added 14:32 - Sep 13

How enjoyable was that ! Rain, wind, greasy pitch, ''out of his depth, strange, and upsetting both sides'' referee. Millwall strong, quick and very effective. We were not at the races early on. Smithies kept us in it.
Never easy against 10 men - especially if they are defending a 2 goal lead. Could count ourselves somewhat unlucky not to have completely turned it around and won the game. Like the look of this squad - working for each other with great determination. We will not be the best team in this league - far from it - but we are trying to play decent football and fighting - for the team and the supporters. What a nice change - and I will take that every match day throughout the season. Long may it last. Massimo - loving what he is developing into.
0


larry12 added 14:56 - Sep 16

Davis looks reasonable against worst team in the premiership shocker! 2 more Lemina's please in the just shut window. Oooh too late as usual.
7


TeamCortese added 15:26 - Sep 16

Thought Lemina was immense today. Shane Long was brilliant as well. He was a real nuisance for the Palace defence. Still think we need to tweak the attack. Perhaps Boufal in for Redmond next week.
8


rjh added 16:02 - Sep 16

An improvement. How does Redmond get a game????
11


sidsaint added 16:22 - Sep 16

Composed performance. Lemina , man of the match. Hoedt also outstanding. Good performances from Long and Foster. Have we turned the corner? Next week will tell, hopefully confidence has returned.
13


TimSaint added 19:15 - Sep 16

Excellent away performance against a team low on confidence, but a potential banana skin for us as they have the new manager.
Lemina was the stand-out player as we bossed the midfield, but excellent supporting roles from Romeu, Long and Hoedt. I predicted a 1-0 win on the predictions league on this site, but can honestly say I would have gone for FF before naming Davis as the first goal scorer !!
Great to see FF make some important saves and nice to get the clean sheet.
Mixed responses from the fans when VvD came on, but he will be fine once he has put in a few decent performances.
A far bigger test looms next week, but hey, let's enjoy the moment and a sweet victory against a team who has officially had the worst ever start to the Prem after 5 games - 5 defeats and no goals scored !!
4


mattthelegend added 19:54 - Sep 16

Didn't see the game so can't comment, nice to see a win and for the one negative comment a little perspective would be good. Liverpool, spuds all draw against teams they should be beating comfortably. Everton have spent how much as have Bournemouth and where has that got them?
0


forallthesaints added 23:08 - Sep 16

Wow, what a difference a week makes. Saints in total control from the start and a well taken poach from Davis. Hoedt made some glorious passes and Lemina was superb from start to finish. Brave changes from the manager which paid off although Redmond is out of touch at the moment and made a few awful mistakes. Forster made a couple of cracking and brave blocks which was brilliant to see after last week's poor performance. Bit worried about Romeu - he seems to be low on confidence and the ball-winning play and distribution is missing at the moment. Long did well and got in their faces - could be even better with Gabbiadini alongside. Should have taken my blood pressure pill before the game, though.
1


chrissfc added 23:32 - Sep 16

Redmond.....runs around but thats it. Not a team player
Need two up front maybe VvD to win the ball and hold up play for others. Strange I know but why not.
Too many square passes and too many balls sideways only Lemina looked to create stuff.
Tadic could be great but how many times does he lose the ball or hit the cross against the first man.
FF did very well and boost his confidence
Very strange how many times during the Saints players put their foot on the ball and stopped, sometimes game was like a friendly. Must move the ball quickly plus players move quickly into space and provide options, unless of course there is a sideways or backwards pass. Poor game against a poor team. Lemina MOM
3


Allan60 added 00:07 - Sep 17

Masterly defensive performance.
0


SanMarco added 10:22 - Sep 17

Good win against poor opposition. Nice to see FF make a couple of saves. Lemina looks like a record signing for all the right reasons! Long should get a run in the side after that performance. I am also impressed with Hoedt.

Just the one big negative and that is Nathan Redmond. This was a game where as Palace pressed forward in the second half they were ripe for the picking on the break. Long and Tadic were willing but where was Redmond? His only notable contribution was the mistake that led to Benteke's chance in the first half. Replace him with a quality attacking MF player (dare I say in the Mane/Lallana mould) and we would surely have got the second and more to make it safe. Ultimately it didn't matter in this game but it could have done...
0


RogerToye added 12:44 - Sep 17

Workman like performance early goal was crucial in this game. I like loftus cheek on there side but he was the only standout there. All our players stepped up from last week. I think with this solid defence we have can now build in a few ways. We should go more direct and not so much fancy stuff great possession though .
0


AirFlorida added 20:31 - Sep 17

I unfortunately stood with the Palace fans. I'm worried about our ability to create chances (and take them!). I hope it's a confidence thing. Redmond should have reacted quicker when Lamina fed him the ball! Lambert would have hit it instantly yet he wanted the 'championship' luxury of a touch to tee his shot up! He is not a prem quality player- he also owes Forster a beer for saving his bacon after an almost costly slip!
0


Highjack added 00:49 - Sep 18

Besic
0


pete_boggs added 15:08 - Sep 18

Could do with a team of Lemina's and a bench of Lemina's. Lucky Davisy scuffed it , might have gone straight to the keeper otherwise.
0


Sheffieldjack added 17:43 - Sep 23

The starting line-up was a mistake. We were outplayed in the first half and lucky to go in at only 0 - 1 down. Much better for about 30 minutes in the second half, but then we ran out of steam. Fer looked knackered. Why he wasn't subbed is a mystery. At the end we threw the point we had fought hard for away.
1


halftimeorange added 21:23 - Sep 23

Overall a promising performance. Based on this outing our manager seems to have sorted out the defence except for Forster. Pity VVD wasn't used in addition to Yoshida and Hoedt as we might have kept Lukaku at bay. Now Pelligrino needs to sort out the attack. As virtually every forward thrust came from Lemina maybe he should be instructed to look for Gabbiadini's smart runs. I do hope that the management have told Lemina that he will not be sold within at least two seasons. Best to educate him now because, after what I have seen at Palace and today, he will soon be tapped up by another club and the media will have him moving in January. Hate to say it again but Redmond is far too static too often, laying the ball off then standing still and watching. The referee gave us very little and the Fellaini antics were worthy of an Academy Award. More rolling around than a pig in mud.
1


TimSaint added 22:39 - Sep 23

Gave United far too much respect in the first half and rarely threatened their goal. All too often, when we had the chance to drive forward, we decided to go sideways instead. Davis, Redmond and Romeu created so many breakaway chances for United in the first half with poor passing or being caught in possession.
The goal was a bit disappointing. Young shouldn't have been allowed to get the cross in, Lukaku should have been marked better, or FF should have come out and punched, but they got lucky with the rebound going straight back to Lukaku.
2nd half we were a different team and Lemina led the charge at almost every attempt. Shame his team mates don't have the same skill and commitment he does. We pressured Man U at every opportunity, restricting them to just a couple of breakaway chances, but again, we seem to get camped in that 18 yards to 30 yards out - passing it from one side to the other until someone can actually cross it, or misses the pass. Still we had a few good chances but Redmond failed to get any power in his shots, Rom put it wide when a foot one side is a goal and a foot the other side is a tap in for Long and his header got cleared off the line by the acting cheating diving cvnt Fellani (how Austin would have loved that chance !)
Still we definitely had them worried - they must have had 6 defenders on at the end - desperately holding on for the points, kicking, pulling, cheating and feigning their way into wasting time. To cap it all, injury time is only 4 mins - should have been 6mins with all the subs and injuries to Fellani and Jones - and 3 minutes of those 4 are wasted with the sending off of Jose - which didn't get added on.
Still, a great second half performance at least, especially once we realised we could actually get something from the game. I hope we can put in a similar showing on at Stoke as we did in the second half today. Lemina is a quality signing and is now worth double what we paid for him !! Absolute quality player and man of the match by a country mile, even though the BBC said it was Romeu !!
0


saintandy11 added 22:50 - Sep 23

Having had to listen to moanrinho bitch about other teams time wasting and spouting off about only one team wanting to play football I wonder if one of the so called football experts will call him out over his teams antics today? nope doubt it very much.

Much better performance today than the last home game. Starting to look like a team playing with confidence again.
1


sidsaint added 11:02 - Sep 24

Good second half performance. Best we have played this season with great energy and fitness. Despite this I did not see where a goal was coming from. We must try Gabbi with Long next week. Wouldn't an ugly win be good.
0


dirk_doone added 22:04 - Sep 24

As much as some fans love him because he is a cheeky Irish chappy who tries hard and runs around a lot, Long is not a goal scorer or even a goal provider. In his 17 appearances since he last scored in the Premier League, against Sunderland last year, Long has managed just 1 assist v Middlesborough. He is currently taking the place of someone who might actually make or even score a goal.
0


TonyHongKong added 04:48 - Sep 27

I wasn't at the match. But I assume from the results that Caulker had a good game at the back and Wszolek was good in attack? Sounds like Osayi-Samuel had a shockingly poor game?
0


Harbour added 09:51 - Sep 30

End to end game and our midfield bossed it but we just can't take our chances which had we done this could have been a win need either new striker or existing guys to stand up. They were a bit lucky fir the first goal but the second was awful defending. They clearly have good players but small margins our team does have a lot more effort desire than last year so encouraging. Was funny to see them miss another penalty and at the end we could have sneaked a draw as we had a few chances in ET loads of Fulham in B block was rather irritating.
0


MelakaRanger added 13:50 - Sep 30

Compared to last Saturdays performance this was a vast improvement . We were constantly caught out on the counter attack. Their attack appeared fluid and very quick. Our defenders looked, on the whole, to be lumbering.

BBC says 25 shots and only 4 on target. That’s just not good enough. We desperately need a “finisher”.

At the Burton match I don’t think I saw Smith win a header. I only watched last nights match on TV but it seemed again that Smith won very little with his head.

Still. Last years team and the year before would have given up once Fulham’s first goal went in and would have completely capitulated when they scored the second. This team didn’t give up and so nearly got the draw that on balance they deserved.

My concern for the Sunderland match is, which QPR team will turn up and play? The Burton team or the Fulham team?
0


pete_boggs added 17:08 - Sep 30

Shite
9


larry12 added 17:10 - Sep 30

Neanderthal oaf loses yet another game for Saints. Get rid!
3


thornhill1976 added 17:45 - Sep 30

Can't score so put Gabiadini and Austin on bench. Keep faith with Long and Redmond - who are dreadful at scoring goals. Genius.
11


codge added 17:54 - Sep 30

I must of been having delusional thoughts in predicting Saints to score 2 goals today in the prediction league, we play the same tippy tappa crappie as we did last year under Puel nothing has changed.We play sideways so much it's a wonder we will ever score from open play.Two teams that showed how to ruin the beutiful game today, sorry but this has to change soon or this will be a long long season.
11


perazi added 00:20 - Oct 1

Larry - who is the neanderthal oaf? MP? Today highlighted our weak attack - Redmond has to be dropped; Shane Long will never be good enough as a starting up front striker. Boufal showed glimpses of the attacking creativity the side needs. The failure to strengthen our attacking force in the Summer looks a huge mistake.
8


qnehl1 added 10:03 - Oct 1

We only looked like scoring from open play in the last 10 minutes, when Van Dijk was playing up front, almost like what Pelle used to do.

Does anyone else think we should just start Van Dijk up top with Long or Gabbiadini or Austin?
3


derbyhoop added 10:36 - Oct 2

We don't do Fridays; we don't do TV games; we don't do London derbies. It was all too predictable.
I thought Fulham looked the better side for long periods - albeit marginally. The first goal was grossly unlucky, especially how well Robinson played the rest of the game. The second was another stupid error by Lynch. Then we woke up and peppered their goal for the last 10-15 minutes. I'm pleased Conor got another goal but it was all too little, too late.
I don't think we are that far from being a decent side, especially considering the injuries we've had in central defence. But, we haven't got (and cannot afford) the sort of striker that would push us on to a higher level. The next 2 away games will show whether we will be comfortably mid table or capable of getting dragged into a relegation battle. The top 6 looks a mile away at the moment.
0


smegma added 10:55 - Oct 2

So Mackie was our best player apparently ???
0


Markl2057 added 19:53 - Oct 15

Far to slow at moving the ball, we've some players poorly off form who need dropping as the team not good enough to carry them. Forster may make the odd save but doesn't command his area, Bertrand off form looks like he's going through the motions and van greedy shouldn't be given a chance to play
5


SaintBrock added 20:09 - Oct 15

What is there to write about other than a fine individual goal and a crackerjack of a penalty from Gabbi and a fine cameo performance from Sofiane Boufal for the last 20 mins. Both must start surely or is the manager really as stupid as many already believe him to be.

Mr van Dyke needs reminding that SFC are still paying his wages!
6


forallthesaints added 20:22 - Oct 15

A slow start that built up into an exciting if nervy and mistake-ridden game. Great goal from Gabbi but poor work to let them straight back in. Redmond was really poor and seems always to blame someone else, Bertrand took an age to spark into life. Cedric worked hard but lacked support and Romeu is currently a shadow of what he was last season. Lemina was epic and Boufal showed what he is capable of when he got on. Forster is a big worry for me - he's not commanding the area, won't come off his line and his far too vulnerable to a low strike from outside the box (three goals this season already). Time for a rest, I think. I would also put Redmond on the bench and replace him with Boufal who really needs a run of starts. At the moment I'd also replace Romeu with Davis.
Kevin Friend was beyond shocking with some mystifying decisions throughout the game and no control of time-wasting. He missed a cast iron foul on Yoshida just before the first goal and, though I hate to say it, we may have got away with the penalty. I thought he'd blown to book Long for a dive. Haven't seen a replay, though and the Newcastle players didn't seem to complain all that much.
We played well for most of the second half and should have got three pints but the pointless hoofing up to Gabbi, Long and Austin yielded nothing all game so why bother?
5


Boxingman75 added 20:53 - Oct 15

Just keeps getting more infuriating , whys van dijk get straight back in hoedt,s been fantastic , redmond is waste of space and needs dropping , tadic not far off redmonds level , id drop both play davis in behind long and gaby , boufal on wing , drop forster as he does nowt , he never comes out of his six yard box and has as much presence as a tree , what is dave watson telling him ? He cant punch let alone catch any crosses or corners , he doesnt talk to his defense and good impulse saves are just not enough , we need a complete keeper , McCarthy is decent enough . Pellegrino wont change though , dead man walkin looks like already . Thank god for lemina , best buy for years
6


codge added 21:53 - Oct 15

One request drop Forster and sign the Statue of Lyberty, oh l forgot he is the Statue of Lyberty.
2


codge added 21:56 - Oct 15

Sorry should of been Statue of Liberty.
0


mattthelegend added 22:45 - Oct 15

Another frustrating afternoon at St Mary’s, still got to witness 2 goals! Forster don’t get him at all, soppy 2nd goal to concede. Redmond has too be dropped and Boufal given some proper game time, he did more in 25 minutes than Redmond has managed all season. Lemina was immense as was Gabbiadini, I thought Long caused them problems all afternoon and didn’t get bringing on Austin for him???? Hoedt must be gutted that he has been dropped for VVD, sell him in January and spend the money wisely and we may just beat the drop!!
4


Cjay80 added 23:26 - Oct 15

Pleased to see 2 goals but we are not a side anywhere near as threatening as we were under RK. Defending too deep and trying to carefully pass our way forwards instead of using pace and urgency like we used to. Gives opposing sides plenty of time to regroup and prepare. Thought Mario was excellent as was Boufal when he came on. Virgil seems disinterested and hope the rumours about Barcelona are true. Romeo was unusually off his game today. Playing 2 strikers works, keep on with it please MP. Would like to see young Sam McQueen get some appearances. Has pace, strength, urgency and can cross a ball.
4


pete_boggs added 01:19 - Oct 16

Forster need liability insurance.
3


AirFlorida added 08:57 - Oct 16

Crab passing ending with a back pass. Lemina aside, none of these players seem to know what they're meant to be doing. Is the manager over complicating tactics or do we have a bunch of comfortable lathargic players going through the motions? Two minutes in and Bertrand is shouting and pointing to where he thinks someone should be. If Leicester win today, we're two points off bottom two.
0


larry12 added 11:33 - Oct 16

Poor old Forster. He knows now that ALL his team mates think he is a joke.
0


NewburySaint added 13:12 - Oct 16

Van Dijk = 2 starts, no clean sheets and not very good.

Get Hoedt back in please, not that he should have been dropped in the 1st place.
1


TimSaint added 13:31 - Oct 16

Too many players were off form, content to leave it to others to make that killer pass or to shoot etc. Every game it seems we have to carry 2 or 3 players and we simply cannot do this - perhaps yesterday we had 4 or 5 !!
Gab is selected but we don't play to his strengths.
It was like we were playing 4-2-4 with the front 4 doing little apart from waiting for the ball then passing it back, but then expecting Rom and Lemina to do the job of 4 midfielders in terms of holding and creating for the front line.
Frustrations all over the park against what is pretty much a Championship side - and we were at home !!
Things need to change drastically next Saturday
1


NOTRAC added 18:35 - Oct 21

We have sunk so low.
0


patred added 22:02 - Oct 21

0


mattthelegend added 22:44 - Oct 21

First half thought we played well considering the baggies parked the bus as expected and made several chances. Lemina was a beast throughout and Romeu had a better game. Good to see Bertrand getting forward again and unlucky with his free kick, as was Yoshi with his overhead kick. Second half was frustrating and we struggled to make any chances,with Forster looking dodgy again, don’t really remember anyone else making an impression until Boufal goal changed it, he must start in the next game and given a decent run in the team now? Still a win is a win and when you look at the way other teams are playing not many are looking good.
2


allsaint54 added 10:04 - Oct 22

Redmond or Tadic vs Boufal. No contest. Give the guy a start.
3


SaintBrock added 10:51 - Oct 22

Boufal
3


larry12 added 12:18 - Oct 22

Romeu slow rubbish. Last 2 matches, Gabbiadini and Boufal solo goals, so the rest are still utter pants. Forster is so crap he should be shown the tools for his gardening leave and not be allowed to be a goalie anywhere in the world for the next 4 years
3


forallthesaints added 18:41 - Oct 22

What a goal! And what timing. After 85 minutes of cynical time-wasting, WBA were done for. It was hysterical watching Foster run around like a headless chicken for the last seven or eight minutes. Must be awful paying to watch Albion away. Perhaps that's why they didn't travel with all that many. Someone's obviously had strong words with Forster as he came of his line at least twice. Didn't do so all that effectively but at least it stopped the ball dropping to their feet for a shot. Yoshida and Van Dijk were brilliantly solid. Up front we were trying to do the Arsenal thing and walk it into the net but never got to the bit where it actually goes in the net. And two many times, especially in the second half, a good ball was sent down the wing but was not followed up and so whoever had it was stranded and either lost it or had to turn backwards. But signs of improvement.
0


saintandy11 added 23:49 - Oct 22

I wonder just how long WBA spend in training working on their time wasting skills?

Hopefully Pulis will be sacked before they come back here next year so we don't have to put up with more garbage like that . I sure that when he decided to go into football management it was with the intent of ending global football as an entertainment spectacle.
1


smegma added 00:32 - Oct 29

No one has voted Mackie MOTM this week !!!
0


Harbour added 10:44 - Oct 29

Great game we worked hard and deserved the win we never let them settle and took our goals well OH got subs right proud of the club and team today
0


quickpassrotter added 13:33 - Oct 29

Great match to watch. Brilliant performance and deserved result.
0


pete_boggs added 17:00 - Oct 29

z
1


codge added 17:05 - Oct 29

Once again Forster has a game to forget, how we end up with the shortest player on our team marking Murray there striker and our 2 central defenders not even close is mind boggling.
Poor Gabbi no real service so he can't be blamed for lack of goals, all together more of the same, a long season to go so hope springs eternal.
12


sidsaint added 17:28 - Oct 29

Good for a point but never created enough chances to get a winner and never enough attacking options to get a winner. At least VVD and Hoedt looked good together and the goal was the result of an excellent free kick and follow up. Our first headed prem league goal since January 2016! I can't see MP playing 2 forwards away from home lets hope we are more attack minded at home next week.
5


DPeps added 17:52 - Oct 29

We didn’t create enough to deserve the win. We got bossed in midfield without Lemina playing, and lost far too of the second balls. Overall not a bad performance but same old story really
2


PezzaSaint added 18:10 - Oct 29

Boring! We carry to many players. Today it was Tadic and to an extent JWP. Both him and Steven Davis get knocked off the ball to much. Boufal showed touches, but you just get the impression that he wants to do a Hollywood every time he gets the ball. Must choose his moments better. I think Lurch moves quicker than Forster! How can he be an England player?! No spark, something missing.
5


aceofthebase added 18:51 - Oct 29

Don't blame Forster for the goal. The blame lies with Cedric who was utterly useless in marking Murray. In fact Cedric was pathetic for most of the game, outpaced outjumped and his only contribution was booting the ball to nowhere.
-13


Bettwsresident added 19:01 - Oct 29

Why the F does Tadic have to fall over whenever he is touched.. even when we are on an oh so rare break!

I dont blame cedric for Murray's goal. He is a good wing back with 1 limitation..what cant the team sort it out to have Hoedt or VVD track to the back post when the oppos big striker head thats way.

Overall the game was more of the same that we have seen all season and a tough watch. JWP was downright poor asie for 1 v good fee kick, whilst Romeu showed his limitations, a brilliant defensive midfeilder with a strange almost complete lack of ability to find a forward pass.

Boufal was decent, and made to look a hell of a lot better when the sadly underperforming Redmond came on.


6


larry12 added 19:01 - Oct 29

Is there any way I can give a minus score of up to -20 cos some of those assh*les deserved it
3


larry12 added 19:04 - Oct 29

Aceof base, you tosser. Forster is a clown and has lost Saints 4 points in ther last 2 games. Get a pair of glaases!
2


aceofthebase added 07:05 - Oct 30

Larry 12 with your superior eyesight and rich choice of English perhaps you can explain how Cedric did his best to prevent Murray heading the ball.
Better can you explain what Cedric is expected to do when others have to cover for him. You wouldn't suggest he takes centre stage in defence I hope
-2


SaintBrock added 07:52 - Oct 30

One to forget. It started well and we could have gone on to win handsomely with that style of football but no, for reasons inexplicable to understand, Pellegrino decided that our best tactic was to sit back on a 1-0 lead for 86 minutes! The man is beyond mad and we really are watching a level of bumbling incompetence that is unusual even by our historical standards.

Nothing will change of course unless our new owner takes a serious interest in the football side of the business. Once he realises it is more than just a money laundering machine we might get some change but don't bet on it any time soon.

Sadly, this season is already well and truly a write-off, if we can't beat Huddersfield, Newcastle or Brighton then we really are not very good at all and it is conceivable that the only sides we can beat like Palace, WHU and WBA might all be relegated. Are we in the relegation scrap? It will be a brave person who says No!
7


SaintNick added 08:46 - Oct 30

Why would it be a brave person who predicts we wont be in a relegation scrap, Brighton, Newcastle and Huddersfield have all had good starts to the season so to get a point away at two of them isnt bad, yes we are playing terrible at the moment, but we are still in the top ten we are nearer the top six than we are the bottom three.

I look at the ratings on here and sometimes wonder what people are thinking, it always seems to be the same players get the same low ratings no matter what they do.

Forster gets 3.6 at time of writing, some say he should have saved the goal, maybe , maybe not, it wasn't a big blunder though and apart from that he came and caught the crosses well and otherwise did nothing wrong.

Redmond gets 3.8, he had 18 minutes on the pitch, did nothing wrong and his arrival coincided with us starting to keep the ball and push Brighton back, he didnt put in any match winning crosses, but neither did he do too much wrong, yet some cant see past the red mist that envelopes them every time his name is mentioned, certainly not the man who stood in front of me yesterday who screamed abuse at him and ironically applauded if he crossed the ball.

Not the best ever match, not the best ever performance, but it is always the same players who get slated if we fail to win and get no praise if we do,
-1


allsaint54 added 10:32 - Oct 30

Saintnick. Could be that these players are just not performing week in week out. The only time you see Tadic is when he's auditioning for the Oscars, absolutely no enthusiasm or effort at all. At least Redmond tries. As for FF he is a liability. Let's face it he only had 1 shot to save & failed, hopeful punts upfield to MG just gives possession back to the opposition.
2


BoondockSaint added 13:19 - Oct 30

You mean like Yoshi?
0


dannyblue added 23:59 - Oct 31

Not much quality but a lot of hard work. We played very direct today. And shifted seemlessly from a back three to a back four, and back again and again. Deserved win for the effort.
0


Harbour added 18:08 - Nov 1

Well done rangers 100% effort from every member of the team. Ollie has got the players playing for the badge and they all knew there role if anything we really should have won by more than the one goal. Baptise Robinson and Sylla stand out performances we really stopped them playing.
0


DPeps added 17:18 - Nov 4

Tosh
7


codge added 17:30 - Nov 4

If we are going to continue to play this style of cra? why oh why bother changing managers.This is so hard to watch and so boring, we show no real willingness to be able to up the tempo of the game. It's slow and oh so boring to watch.like watching the grass grow ln fact l think l prefer the grass watching. We are bang in trouble with who we have to play next.
10


petedoors1 added 17:35 - Nov 4

PELLEGRINO OUT, BLACK OUT, AND REED OUT. OR WE WILL BE RELAGATED.
11


rjh added 17:39 - Nov 4

Anybody remember last year's comfortable win against Burnley last year? Dyche said what a good team we were, quick play, getting between the lines; our manager? Claude Puel.

This guy is a joke, sacking CP was a joke. Be really careful what you wish for.........

Today was awful. Can anyone actually name a game where we have played well this season and deserved a win??
8


vanmans added 17:41 - Nov 4

What a load of shite. Were in trouble. with all the easy games we have played we should be in the top four.
Looks like we will be in the bottom 3 by Christmas.
8


gosfordjack added 17:42 - Nov 4

Poor signing Clucas. Not ever Premiership level.
0


gosfordjack added 17:44 - Nov 4

Poor signing Clucas. Not ever Premiership level.
0


rjh added 17:46 - Nov 4

Eric Black out. The common denominator. His record is shocking. Would love Erwin back.
10


SaintGeorge added 17:55 - Nov 4

shíte
7


SaintGeorge added 17:55 - Nov 4

shíte
5


bigrob68 added 17:57 - Nov 4

Forster, MP and Tadic, rubbish
6


Markl2057 added 18:01 - Nov 4

Poor poor too many players not playing to their potential and a manager completely out of his depth needs an aqua lung
9


WanderingSaint added 18:30 - Nov 4

Can’t work out which is the worst decision, allowing idiot fans force out Puel after our most successful season for decades, or employing this guy, who has no experience or credentials. Those two decisions have set us back at least 5 years. We needed to be top six at this stage, otherwise we’re in a relegation battle, and I’ve said so since the sacking of Puel and the start of the season. We need to use this international break to get rid (tomorrow AM hopefully), and get a manager in with some experience, some credentials, and some ideas.

How you people who forced out Puel can sleep at night is beyond me. Oh wait, you blame Lea Reed and call for his head, that’s it.
-9


WanderingSaint added 18:30 - Nov 4

Can’t work out which is the worst decision, allowing idiot fans force out Puel after our most successful season for decades, or employing this guy, who has no experience or credentials. Those two decisions have set us back at least 5 years. We needed to be top six at this stage, otherwise we’re in a relegation battle, and I’ve said so since the sacking of Puel and the start of the season. We need to use this international break to get rid (tomorrow AM hopefully), and get a manager in with some experience, some credentials, and some ideas.

How you people who forced out Puel can sleep at night is beyond me. Oh wait, you blame Lea Reed and call for his head, that’s it.
-7


sandywelsh added 18:31 - Nov 4

How far have we FALLEN.
7


FaroSaint added 19:01 - Nov 4

Sadly we have an impotent attack combined with very dubious team formation and tactics.The manager seemsxout of his depth the team is playing on go slow .The formation is not working individual errors .Outstandng performance by Davis pity the rest of the team couldnt follow his lead.
4


dirk_doone added 19:04 - Nov 4

Les Reed really is a spent force if Wandering Saint is all he's got left for PR. He can't even spell Les.

Of course, it's time for Les Reed to go. It will present us with a great opportunity to bring Paul Black Box Mitchell back to the club to clear out the dead wood that has accumulated under Reed: Wilson, Black, Watson, Jaidi etc, appoint a dynamic manager like Nuno Espirito Santo and bring in exciting new players.
7


dirk_doone added 19:08 - Nov 4

This made me laugh: "How you people who forced out Puel can sleep at night is beyond me."

Err, that was your old mate Les Reed and I bet he has no problem sleeping at night. He is still a legend in his own mind.
3


dovif added 19:41 - Nov 4

Is les reed the guy who through that we have one of the best midfield and attack on the league dispiteblast years debacle.

Is he also the one who refuse to sell a defender who did not want to be here for 55mil. Who have been mediocre and whom we will be lucky to get 35 mil now for. Who in the meantime is destroying morale at the club.

THat 55 mil would have netted us a pretty good striker and attacking midfielder
5


PJ17 added 19:42 - Nov 4

This was hard to watch. Is it the manager or the players. There is a complete lack of confidence throughout the team, which produces a fear within the players. Pope was outstanding for Burnley and his saves showed how poor Forster has become. Again there was a lack of drive and final product from the majority of players today. Team selection was again bemusing and why continue with the same players and tactics when they have not worked all season. I think Eric Black as first team coach is not addressing any of our problems as he failed to do at Villa. Really have had enough of poor teams coming to St Mary's and contributing nothing to the game and us gifting them a goal. On this showing we are on our way out of the Premier League.
11


sidsaint added 20:44 - Nov 4

If it aint broke don't fix it. We are broke and need fixing now. Today was exactly as expected we knew how Burnley would be set up and what tactics they would use, yet we employed the same methods that have let us down week after week. I agree with so many of the comments above. We may even need to get big Sam in as it could be that dire.
4


WanderingSaint added 22:26 - Nov 4

Dirk, no it wasn’t. It was fan pressure nothing else. And sorry I made a spelling mistake. I will chastise myself to sleep tonight.

Just watch Leicester fly up the league whilst we carry on with this no mark.

You seem extremely deluded, like a lot of Saints “fans,” especially if you think a manager of the side sitting pretty at the top of the Championship and very likely to replace us in the Premier will leave them for us. Turns down Everton and you think he’d be interested in come here. Jeez.
-6


darthvader added 23:13 - Nov 4

Utter shít .same as the last what , 12 home games ? .
Embarrassing
7


SaintPaulVW added 23:14 - Nov 4

Guarantee old Yoshi comes in for a slating....

Same old same old as far as I could see. You could see the Burnley goal coming from a mile off. 70 minutes of ineffective possession, a goal supposedly against the run of play, then 20 minutes of chaos. Mo's current lack of tactical nous is beginning to concern me.
8


pete_boggs added 23:28 - Nov 4

Sh**e as usual.
5


larry12 added 23:38 - Nov 4

Is there any way I can give a score of -20,000 for forster
3


forallthesaints added 01:11 - Nov 5

So depressing. Huge amount of possession but with nothing to show for it. Again. One up front doesn't work, especially when no one is chasing forward to support Gabbiadini who hardly had a touch. Redmond can't see an overlap when it's staring him in the face - always wants to go from a standing start. My fear is that one or two, maybe three (VVD, Bertrand, Soares) players will be so disillusioned by Christmas that they'll want to be off in January. We can blame the manager all we like but I can't believe he's telling them to aim long balls up front when one player is up against three or four defenders on his own. How many times did we hoof it up only to see Burnley snuff everything out. And yet, there was plenty of good play with some good moves but nothing gets finished. Frustrating is not the word. And while the goal was a great header, Forster was flat-footed again. But of more concern is his demeanour throughout the game, he seems so indecisive and is not the force he was two seasons ago. He's been a worry for me from last season and things haven't got better this. Time for a break to try and get his mojo back. He is, without question a good keeper - he's proved that many times - but his confidence is shot and he's now something of a liability. Tadic and Boufal showed flashes but not enough today. But the big concern is the strikers. Gabbiadini is becoming isolated and gives up (there was one fumble by the excellent Pope which he might have got to but he'd stopped the chase). Austin is simply not good enough to maintain a Premier League place.
8


PezzaSaint added 07:25 - Nov 5

I'm afraid that Forster must be dropped. He looks like he is wearing lead boots. Doesn't dive forward, dives backwards and by the time he gets there the ball is over the line. I'm wondering that the injury that kept him out for so long has had long term effects on his mobility? We will never know!
6


thornhill1976 added 08:30 - Nov 5

Average squad + a system that fails to get the best from individuals = recipe for disaster. Our offensive players are poor. Redmond is dreadful. His ratio of shots to goals is the worst in the league. He doesn’t have the vision to pick a pass in the last third, and most of his play is entirely predictable. And to top it all his body language suggests that he believes it is all someone else’s fault. Long has scored once in 20+ games. Tadic has little impact and Bouffal is inconsistent. Gabiadini must wonder what the hell is going on. He is lucky to get one chance per game. Add to this the fact that the gk is having a poor season and relegation starts to figure. Having said that, Saints have had weak teams in the past and fans have stuck by them. There is a distinct qualitative difference now - the style of football is BORING. As a regular for 40+ years it is the worst “entertainment value” since Branfoot. At least then I didn’t have to pay nearly £50 to get in. Fans deserve more. If the current system prevails for much longer it will turn St. Mary’s into a morgue.
6


Cjay80 added 09:04 - Nov 5

For me it was very obvious that there are players lacking confidence (Fraser & Redmond the obvious 2), and also 2 sets of fans both out there and on here. Those who recognise this and shout out encouragement, and those who think they are going to improve by telling them how poor they are.

I was encouraged by the first half, excellent possession, good chances snuffed out by Pope who I thought was there for the taking. Unfortunately the second half did not follow the first and from the 55-80 minutes nothing happened.

I feel like the tactics don't fit the team selection. Gabbi didn't attack any headers and instead focussed on getting under defenders hoping they would make a mistake. Charlie looked eager and fought for every ball, it was only the last 10 minutes when VVD went up front we looked like we might be useful in the air.

I miss the attacking, high pressing we had under MoPo.

Finally on VVD, clearly frustrated at the end and during the game but total respect for him after the game, signed autographs for all the waiting kids, posed for pictures and was the model professional.

Hopefully we will see a change of fortunes soon, but one thing is for sure, the team needs support not berating.
1


the_saint added 09:27 - Nov 5

The problem we have is np doesn’t know his best side and all this chopping and changing is not helping as it didn’t last season, the problem is we sold too many players so puel and mp both have had one hand tied behind their back
I think puel was harshly treated as I think mp is now I do not blame the managers I blame higher up
Mp needs a transfer window to try to address but we would be foolish sacking him as we did with puel we need to root out the cause
-2


SaintBrock added 09:28 - Nov 5

Goals win matches, possession counts for nothing.
3


the_saint added 09:55 - Nov 5

The problem we have is np doesn’t know his best side and all this chopping and changing is not helping as it didn’t last season, the problem is we sold too many players so puel and mp both have had one hand tied behind their back
I think puel was harshly treated as I think mp is now I do not blame the managers I blame higher up
Mp needs a transfer window to try to address but we would be foolish sacking him as we did with puel we need to root out the cause
0


Geoff78 added 10:12 - Nov 5

Oh dear! I know it's a feeble excuse but they did look tired after two very demanding games. Holloway had talked of making changes and maybe should have made more than just Lynch for Cousins. Our midfield trio have deservedly won plaudits this season but perhaps Manning deserved a run out. Luongo in particular has worked his socks off this season and although Freeman is our most creative player he is running into more and more cul de sacs in his desperation to get onto his left foot. Also have to say Warburton had done his homework. Forest, clearly a decent team, especially on the break, consistently played balls behind the wing backs who were too often caught up field. Baptiste has been a revelation but when forced to cover the right back position his lack of pace was horribly exposed, as it had been for Wolves goal last week. Washington hardly got a look in and although Smith added a bit of forward strength in the second half it was only marginal. For the first time this season Rs ran out of spirit in the second half.
0


SaintBrock added 17:29 - Nov 18

Utter dross.
7


WanderingSaint added 17:31 - Nov 18

Bob Barton now sounds like a genius. We need to get rid of this buffoon immediately before our situation becomes irrecoverable, which it almost is already.
7


codge added 17:54 - Nov 18

Sorry to say another pathetic performance from a team set up to fail.You now get the feeling this cr×p is all we are going to get from Mr Pelican, unless we can put out a team that knows where the goal is and l can't see it happening we are in deep doodah.Forster has to be replaced but that won't happen and how Tadic holds his place l never know, still l would like to be more optimistic but l am not.
10


petedoors1 added 19:11 - Nov 18

THE MANAGER HAS TO GO.
8


bigrob68 added 19:12 - Nov 18

our manager is shat and so are at least 8 of the players
5


smiffdub added 19:16 - Nov 18

All of us supporters have known, or feared, for a long time that the more of Long, Redmond, Tadic and Boufal you start at the same time, the less likely you are to score. Lo and behold today we get all 4 of them starting! . We've also known or feared that something has happened to our goalie and that his antics basically cost us points. Lo and behold he gets to keep his place agian. These are things that the manager should know, surely!!! but he doesn't seem to. He also seems to have no idea how to turn things around. But the most galling part about him is that he seems 100% committed to his own unsuccessful choices and decisions. I don't know if sacking him is the answer, but surely nobody can look at this team this season and say with a straight face that it's going in the right direction or that 'results will come.' Lo and behold, that's exactly what MP says.
9


mikesaint added 19:18 - Nov 18

bigrob68 Well said.
5


sandywelsh added 19:29 - Nov 18

Bottom 3 Bye Christmas. Something has to CHANGE.
7


dovif added 19:30 - Nov 18

We are going to need to spend a lot of money to clean up this mess les made. So many in the squad need to be moved in January for their lack of ability

Van dyck has been mediocre at best. If he was on the market. I doubt we would pay more than 15 for him. Let's hope les has a deal lined up, so we can improve this hapless squad. Tonight should have been 6-0 with no shots on goal
7


simmo400 added 19:35 - Nov 18

Big Sam come on down quick
8


janecook added 19:38 - Nov 18

RELEAGATION BECKONS.
5


aceofthebase added 19:54 - Nov 18

I'm not convinced a different manager could improve this hopeless shower of players. Miracles are extremely unlikely so I'm part of the bedwetting mob
2


SanMarco added 20:43 - Nov 18

The decision not to strengthen our attacking options in the summer was suicidal. Although lots of people lambast the manager and talk about alternative tactics I just don't see how it is going to be done. We need a Pelle style target man for Gabbi to play alongside and a quick attacking midfielder who can also score (not unlike Mane actually). Those in charge of the transfers are responsible for this mess and it could well become a catastrophe. Yes - blame the manager if you want (he is certainly not an improvement on Puel) but we need change higher up - not buying a CB in the January window probably cost us the League Cup and the inactivity in the summer could well lead to a relegation fight. Well done Les...
10


FaroSaint added 22:26 - Nov 18

Totally concur with San Marco but I recall saying the same thing months ago Gsbbi needs a hold up player like Pelle or SRL to play off at the mo there is no service to the strikers at all thus no goals. Lemima is badly missed .
when balka are crossed no one is busting a gut to get on to them .
Worst display since promotion to the premier league but no surprise.
As previously stated teams that cannot score get relegated. Its only going to get worse the whole team look dispirited
10


larry12 added 23:34 - Nov 18

complete shiiiiiiiiiiiiiiite
6


dovif added 00:07 - Nov 19

Considering how easy our schedule has been. To have 3 wins after 12 games is pathetic.

To have only score 9 goals so far. 2 of which was from penalties against a team like Newcastle is pathetic

A blind mice who saw us played last year would have known we needed 2 or 3 better attack players. So anyone who had a hand in building this disaster should not have a job unless we miraculously improves in the next few weeks

It is beyond incompetence to build a team like we have. It is not like we have no budget to buy some attack players. Even if we did not, we could have sold players who did not want to be here and we would not be stuck like we are now
8


Harbour added 08:18 - Nov 19

Started well faded end of first half was it a pen seen them given but seemed harsh. Smithies pulled off three great saves second half they battered us. Smith should have scored but put in wide. Good atmosphere in the ground good to see it nearly full. What a nice moment bringing the 81 year old former player forgot his name back ..the forever r s club doing great work.
0


SaintPaulVW added 08:53 - Nov 19

Conundrum at the moment, need a defensive formation against an attacking team but in a defensive formation we have less than no chance of scoring.

Not sure I see any progress this year. Could be drifting into a crisis if we are not careful.
3


patred added 09:55 - Nov 19

a nothing performance from a team managed by a nothing manager..
7


RogerToye added 21:38 - Nov 19

outclassed in midfield no attack ???
0


Allan60 added 18:44 - Nov 25

Referee cost us the match this afternoon - a very poor performance by Attwell
2


Muzza added 18:12 - Nov 26

Best afternoon for a while at SM! Just don’t get that having won 4-1 and played well. By the end of the game the ground is half empty? Where the f@ck do all those people have to be at 3:15 on a Sunday afternoon? What happened to staying and clapping your team at the end of a game..especially when they’ve put in a good performance? Just finished watching the end of HuddersfieldvCity. Lost 2-1 and not one person had left their seat. Perhaps our fans should take note. Only plus side was the 82minute leavers stayed until about 87 mins. On the pitch thought Hokberg was immense!! Let’s see if he starts the next game?
3


Cjay80 added 18:24 - Nov 26

I said weeks ago, give Charlie a start. He knows where the goal is! Great game and glad to see Hojbjerg recover from his error that nearly led to an Everton opener on 15 minutes to give the best performance I have seen him give. He and Charlie MUST start in the week. Feeling optimistic today about our chances of 4 points in the next 7 days.
5


sidsaint added 18:49 - Nov 26

Better now do it again next Sunday.
3


mattthelegend added 18:53 - Nov 26

What a difference a week makes, I know loads will say it was against a sh**e Everton team, but you can only beat what’s in front of you and we did it in style as well. Hojgberg was immense in the middle, putting in some crunching tackles and Boufall showed what a lot of us know he is capable off, worth the viewing on its own, plenty of showboating 😊. Austin as well put away 2 quality headers, Gabbiadini must be gutted that he never got on. Is it a coincidence that Bertrand offered more of a threat without Redmond on the pitch??? Waited nearly a year for this and now buzzing, though not getting carried away.
4


SaintBrock added 18:57 - Nov 26

Where did that come from? Different style of play and suddenly we look like a footballing side. Secret: move the ball quickly, find space and run into it and one touch passing. Hope it is more than a one-off golden moment. Should help their morale heading up to the Etihad.
8


forallthesaints added 19:06 - Nov 26

That's better lads. After last week's capitulation (one of the worst away days for years with no cohesion and, in the last 20 minutes, no effort) MP made a brave selection. Hojberg was immense all day, constantly winning the ball and moving it on with simple play. Tadic was better than at any time this season and Ward-Prowse did really well. The positivity throughout the team was infectious and I don't think it's a coincidence that Redmond was dropped. Austin took his goals well but was pretty poor in the first half, missing a couple of sitters and frequently being behind the play. He did so much better second half with much better positional play. Boufal and Bertrand clicked together so much more than Redmond and Bertrand. I don't want to carried away (it was Everton, after all) but if we can take that spirit to Citeh on Wednesday, who knows. And there's a real chance of winning at Bournemouth. Romeu's been off colour this season and he may struggle to get back in. I suspect Hojberg and Ward-Prowse will miss out with the return of Lemina and Romeu but they'd feel rightly unlucky as both did so well today. And Hoedt is growing into a top class defender with some outrageous cross field passes as well as solid defence. Even Forster started to look more comfortable and confident. As I say, I don't want to get carried away but that kind of performance can only be a big boost to the squad's confidence.
4


dirk_doone added 19:16 - Nov 26

A thoroughly enjoyable game. Charlie Austin's first league start of the season and it was like a new beginning for the whole team. What a difference it made to have a goal scorer up front today instead of Shane Long. Austin not only scored 2 goals and hit the woodwork, he was contantly getting into scoring positions and really deserved 3 or 4. He terrorised the Everton defence. I'm really looking forward to the rest of the season now with Austin up front, scoring goals. You can see the effect losing your goal scorer can have on an entire team from how badly Everton have been affected by the loss of Lukaku.
5


TimSaint added 22:11 - Nov 26

Pretty much great performances all round today - for the first time this season. Usually we are carrying a few and that made all the difference today.
PEH was perhaps a forced change with Lemina coming back from injury and Romeu suspended, but he was extremely positive, a good tackler and probably had the most passes today - most of which were FORWARD !!
Surprised that Tadic was selected after Liverpool debacle and general form this season, but he put in a decent showing today and capped it with the opener and an assist.
Glad that Austin was the preferred choice up top and it was justified with the goals. With him in the box, more crosses were put in and the general approach play was more positive. Ok so he didn't make the runs that Gab is capable of, or that Long demonstrated at the end when Everton were stretched, but he was always in the box creating havoc among the now weakest defence in the league.
Great to see so many goals - first 4 home goal haul since Palace 4-1 under Koeman ? - and good to see Tadic finally score, as well as Davis. Could and should have had a few more with Austin hitting the post, putting another well over and with different choices, Long could have been in a few times at the end, or squared it to JWP instead of shooting.

Atmosphere was so much better walking back from the ground and everyone was smiling and chatting :o)




3


10i added 08:00 - Nov 27

Finally, MP did what he schould have done two months earlier - to put someone in the box who can get at the end of crosses, when you have a Team that good on the wings...
It's no coincidence that Tadic looked a lot better than in most games this season as did Bertrand and Cedric, who all now had someone to aim the crosses to. Would have been even braver to start Gabbiadini as well instead of JWP, but okay...
At least we saw what the "forgotten" Players (well, just by MP), are capable of, cause Austin did what everybody hoped he would do, and Hojbjerg was immense...
4


larry12 added 15:56 - Nov 27

Well done Saints thrashed European Champions Everton. Let's get carried away when the team finally doesn't play shiiite. No Redmond or Mr Slow. MOPE will revert to type and put Romeu in, instead of Hojbjerg, clearly showing how cr*p he is, as a Manager.
0


enfieldargh added 13:15 - Nov 28

match rating 4/10
extra time 20/10
0


MelakaRanger added 13:47 - Nov 28

Two lessons.

1. Fans. Even if we are second best on the field and deservingly two nil behind at 90 mins, stay for the last few mins of extra time

2. Teams. Even at two nil up at 90 mins don’t go to sleep, don’t think this game is won. 9 times out of teen it will be but that tenth time could cost you 2 or 3 points.

I also think this point won could be crucial come avoiding the drop in 5 months time

0


vanrrrr added 14:59 - Nov 28

We were dire but fluked a draw and need to build on that. Poor going forward and on the ball and never really looked like we had any tactical plan.
0


smegma added 16:32 - Nov 28

Was it Brian Clough who said 'if football was meant to be played in the air, they would have put goalposts in the clouds'??
0


codge added 23:08 - Nov 29

Great effort from Saints but suprise with the starting line up, it seemed to work though.The free kick for the first goal you could see it was going in on the way we lined up for it.Still a valiant effort all the same.Think we can get a result Sunday.
2


dirk_doone added 23:48 - Nov 29

A very good performance against the best team in the land. We deserved a draw. City scored in the 6th minute of injury time. Where did all of that added time come from? There should have been 3 or 4 minutes max.
7


aceofthebase added 07:41 - Nov 30

Gutted! Very spirited performance by everyone. Winning goal actually scored early into seventh minute of extra time.
4


SaintNick added 09:44 - Nov 30

I think sometimes we need to look at the ratings reports, 7 should be the average score with 8 for a good game, 9 for a great game and 10 for an outstanding game.

How Forster and Lumina can only average 7 is a mystery, likewise Long and Redmond who worked hard to defend from the front and attack on the break, perhaps they didn't look like scoring but theirs was a thankless task to keep chasing the ball for often no reward, to give them 5 is either showing a complete lack of football knowledge or just plain bias.
0


sidsaint added 18:10 - Dec 3

Good periods when we were well on top, other times we could have conceded again. Would have liked to have seen us put the game to bed when we were very much the better side. Overall we seem to be getting it together at a time when we will need to be at our best.
2


forallthesaints added 18:31 - Dec 3

Good end-to-end game for the neutral but the last five minutes or so saw a few squeaky bums in the Saints ranks. Overall a good performance but Pied took most of the first half to settle. We dominated possession for so much of the first half but never threatened then a stupid lapse led to their goal (might have been a foul when they stole the ball). The pressure in the 10 minutes before we scored was electrifying but as soon as the goal was scored we took the foot off the pedal and relaxed for a bit. Another five minutes of that intensity and Bournemouth might have crumbled. No one had a bad game but, equally, no one was exceptional. People will be clamouring for Charlie to start again next week but to be honest he looked like he needed a month's rest at half time. Yes, I know he scored and that's what he's there for, but he did precious little else and was so often off the pace that his so-called threat was never much of a worry for AFCB. Maybe time for Gabbiadini to get a run-out with the new-look Saints.
-1


SaintBrock added 19:07 - Dec 3

Certainly a match of two halves and the removal of Ward Prowse at HT transformed the team. After that Pied had more support on the right and he was able to play a normal RWB role without fear of getting caught forward out of position as he was often in the first half but boy did we miss Cedric. Their goal would not have happened if Pied had been back and covering his man.

Hoedt has learned a valuable lesson in that no matter how good players think they are there is no place for show boating in the PL. Still, we should stick with him as otherwise he looked very composed and with Virgil playing well at last, we looked solid in the middle and Forster looked all the better for it.

Up front Austin was threat but he can't do the job on his own, lobbing crosses into the box in the hope that he will get his head on more than one a match is a very limited strategy. Others have to share th burden of scoring but today It seemed to me that Boufal was starting from too far back all the time and rarely got inside the box. This puzzles me because a player of his ability and skills will create havoc in the box with defenders scared to tackle his mazey runs but the bench never seems able to work this out.

Overall this was a game we had to win to help build momentum and move forward but we never looked like doing so even when dominating in the second half, for sure lots of possession and huff and puff but we created very little against what frankly was a pretty poor side who will be in the relegation battle at the end of the season.

Yet another let down for fans. I am not happy with a point nor the constant managerial whingeings that the PL is a tough league and every match is really difficult.
6


halftimeorange added 19:43 - Dec 3

It was good to see a return to form by Forster, Romeu and Redmond. To balance that there was some lazy football in the first half from JWP, Hoedt and Boufal. The draw was a fair result and there should be a mention for Jonathan Moss , probably the least fussy and most fair referee in the EPL. The penalty shout against Boufal could have gone either way and probably would have gone to Bournemouth if they had been one of the top six but no-one could argue about Moss's position at the time of the appeal, which I believe he got correct.
1


Jesus_02 added 11:04 - Dec 4

I though the ref got both pen decisions right. He (in retrospect) didn't but I'm getting sick of "there was contact" therefore it was a pen. What has become of the game!

At the other end, if that was hand ball we will have to take charging the ball down out of the game as well as tackling.

Actually suspend players that "go looking for a pen" and sort out the shambles of the offside rule and we might have a decent game once more!
0


TimSaint added 12:33 - Dec 4

Frustrating again. Play well for periods, sit back or let the opposition take control, fall behind, get back into it, sit back and then panic a bit at the end.

We do not seem capable of seeing off any opposition and killing games, when we are on top. Yes we were a bit more direct at times yesterday, but before and after we scored, we should have really taken a grip on the game and gone for it. Instead we get level and sit back.

I have spoken before about (Everton aside) always carrying 2/3/4 players in every game and this was evident again yesterday. JWP put in one good cross that Austin should have scored from, but apart from that, did little and was rightly subbed at HT. Maybe being dropped has had the right level of impact on Redmond, as he did well when he came on for JWP and got an assist. Davis was far too negative, like he is programmed to pass backwards when away from home, but we saw what he is actually capable of last week. Boufal was so frustrating. He has so much skill and ability, but still does not seem to be able to make the right choices. His control, shooting, passing and skills were definitely amiss and he frequently helped break up our play for Bournemouth. Hopefully he will rip Arsenal to shreds on Sunday !!

Charlie Austin should have had a hatrick with those 2 headers, but he needed someone up top with him, as there were so many opportunities to feed a fast striker in the 2nd half, but we know Austin doesn't have the pace.

Bournemouth's penalty shout was a blatant dive. I watched it many times from many angles and he plants his left foot down and springs forward, expecting contact much earlier. To get so low and with that leg movement proves it is a dive and he was virtually horizontal when the very minimal contact happened.

Oh well, probably a fair result in the end, but can't help thinking what might have been if we had actually gone for it a bit more.

Hopefully Arsenal will have an off day on Sunday, as despite losing 3-1 at home to Man U at the weekend, then managed an incredible 33 shots and 16 of those were on target. FF might be a busy man - shame they don't have to play all their stars in the Europa game on Thursday !!
1


10i added 14:37 - Dec 4

Playin JWP and Davis when there are some better options available proved to be some kind of madness.
Lemina, who got used to the Prem within one game, on the bench. Hojbjerg, who played some great Football the last two games, benched too.
Gabbiadini, who would be a more attacking Option and would mean we got two Players on the pitch able to score Goals.

Hoedt's mistake was immense, but Davis played his part in playing a looped backpass, that wasn't necessary. Again.
JWP is a kid playing with adults, who can only compete in a game without duels. So, free kicks and Corners.

Apart from that Little criticism, it was an entertaining match with probably a fair outcome. This is not a reason to be entirely happy, but it didn't ruin my day neither.
Pellergino could be even more adventorous, let's hope he will somewhen...
0


mattthelegend added 16:30 - Dec 10

Would have taken a draw at the start, but left a bit gutted with the result. Loads of plus points though notably Forster, Stephens, Hojbjerg and Austin. Great attitude from the team, work rate was immense seriously lacking up to the last 4 games, attacking football with intent on the break.Have we turned the corner??? WTF does Redmond not take his man on, he had plenty of opportunity to do this but didn’t as soon as Boufal comes on straight away he goes for it and draws a foul from Arsenal. Defence was solid for 15 - 20 minutes in the second half. 3 points on Wednesday please.
9


mattthelegend added 17:12 - Dec 10

Would have taken a draw at the start, but left a bit gutted with the result. Loads of plus points though notably Forster, Stephens, Hojbjerg and Austin. Great attitude from the team, work rate was immense seriously lacking up to the last 4 games, attacking football with intent on the break.Have we turned the corner??? WTF does Redmond not take his man on, he had plenty of opportunity to do this but didn’t as soon as Boufal comes on straight away he goes for it and draws a foul from Arsenal. Defence was solid for 15 - 20 minutes in the second half. 3 points on Wednesday please.
0


forallthesaints added 17:42 - Dec 10

Great effort but couldn't help thinking that with a bit more calmness out of defence we could have put Arsenal under more pressure. We seemed to be happy to sit back and let them come at us and soak it up. We did that vey well but it's always a bit dangerous and finally Ward-Prowse was drawn out of position trying to cover one of the others and the cross for the goal was a good one. To be honest, we got away with one as Austin was a mile offside for the goal. And he carried on being offside which is just a basic lack of common sense. He also looks pretty unfit and should have gone off after the hour. Redmond terrified the Arsenal defence with his running... once. Why won't he do it more often? Hojberg is doing brilliantly and it's great to see Forster growing in confidence - couple of great saves today. Romeu is also getting close to his best. So things looking so much better than the day after Anfield but we've really got to have a good go against Leicester while watching for their pace on the break. And let's hope someone clatters Vardy - it's been a long wait for payback.
9


DPeps added 20:28 - Dec 10

Lots of positives, just a shame we couldn’t build on the start.
PEH epitomised the performance: great effort, some skill, and some basic errors.
It good to see us playing more expansively too.
5


SaintBrock added 22:11 - Dec 10

Wasted opportunities up-front are holding us back. New strikers please!
0


sidsaint added 22:29 - Dec 10

We deserved more. Some great performances from the non regulars like Jack and Pierre. Shows we are building a squad in depth. Charlie could have had a hat trick in the first 10 minutes, Oriol was unlucky when he hit the bar and Ryan is not a striker. Overall a good performance which with a bit of luck would have brought us 3 points. Keep it going on Wednesday.
2


larry12 added 09:23 - Dec 14

Les Reed has assembled the worst squad since they came back up. Time to get rid of Reed and all of his useless cronies. And take Davis, Prowse and Romeu with him.
3


forallthesaints added 11:21 - Dec 14

Still reeling. After the Anfield debacle, we've had four games of real fight and some pretty football and several players (Forster, Romeu, Hojberg, even Ward-Prowse and, to a lesser extent, Redmond) showing form after either playing badly or not playing at all. And then this. Truly horrible. On paper it wasn't a bad 11 - obviously trying to rest the odd player with all the games coming up and just gone but a good team. But Leicester, for all their niggly fouls and diving about (Okazaki should have been booked) and time wasting, just never let Saints have a second and, after 10 minutes we folded and once they'd scored we collapsed completely. It was a familiar back four but they were run ragged, Lemina, Davis and Romeu were all awful, constantly giving the ball up. Boufal was constantly surrounded by three or four Leicester players but everyone stood and watched him - no one moved to support him so he ended up looking a dick. Tadic offered little and Austin barely touched it and never looked threatening. No one deliberately played badly, of course, but can you blame the manager for such a shocking show? Especially as in the first 10 minutes before the first goal, Saints were alright. And if we do get rid of him, who the hell do we get in his place?
5


Flashberryjack added 11:44 - Dec 14

Brilliant game if you were a neutral or a Man City fan, utterly demoralising for us poor Jack's having to watch our team absolutely outclassed in all departments.

Although I'm sure we won't be the only team that will suffer the same fate when they have to face this team, I'm absolutely dreading the away game.
0


SaintBrock added 18:17 - Dec 15

Death from a thousand cuts.
0


codge added 17:28 - Dec 16

How many times do we concede a free kick right before halftime or full time,and it always costs us a goal.Don't no were to start this report
other to say the effort was better but you can't win playing this way against teams like Chelsea, just a matter of time before we concede a goal.
2


larry12 added 18:46 - Dec 16

???????????????????????? Just back from the game via A & E, wrists now bandaged.
2


aceofthebase added 18:51 - Dec 16

IF Only Fraser Forster had more in the wall and moved his feet quicker then it would have been a well earned point. Despite that praise must go to FF for keeping us in the game with numerous first class saves and how some can't give him 8's or 9's bewilders me.
0


steadyeddie added 20:22 - Dec 16

24 Shots against us, 6 for us. A bit more luck, and we could have sneaked a draw. FF was excellent, our MotM.
1


halftimeorange added 20:31 - Dec 16

Sadly, Saints aren't complete enough to compete in this company and I fear that we might not be good enough to survive this season inn the EPL. Realistically speaking I believe that too many changes of key personnel have taken place at our club in too short a time, both on and off the field. This, however, is a symptom of today's money-mad football market. Too many people are bleeding the game for their own gain and for Saints, that may end in relegation. Some serious discussions are needed within the club and some inflated prices might need to be paid out in January but, even that might not be enough. Also, some deeper thought must be given to the supporter experience. We have paid high restaurant prices for a greasy spoon cafe menu for the past one and a half seasons.
6


SaintPaulVW added 22:32 - Dec 16

I thought we played very well. Disappointing not to come away with a point. Redmond is so frustrating. What can Gabbi do to get the ball. Last 2 substitutions were fairly pointless. Losing Bertrand and Cedric is a big blow. Things are getting very tight in the lower half of the table now. Squeaky Bum Xmas for Saints fans!
1


underweststand added 08:04 - Dec 17

Putting aside the Leicester debacle, most of the changes worked. Jack Stephens is OK as a CB, but ...(like Yoshida) ...looks distinctly unhappy as a full back at this level. Hojbjerg , Hoedt and Lemina still haven't been introduced to the rest of the squad (!). The main problem i still a group of strikers who can't score.

For all the good of his "Pep talk", Nathan Redmond still plays like an enthusiastic schoolboy with lots of impressive-looking runs, but then either runs out of space, or ideas. Although he didn't get in the game, VvD looks only a former shadow of his former self since returning, so the sooner he goes - the better . We won't get another chance to sell a player for £70 million. That sort of money will go a long way - considering the way we normally buy in players.

I have some sympathy for MP, who had a good 95 minute plan against City, and did well to keep Chelsea down to only one goal´, but we lack creativity in midfield and strikers who can score. (Austin an exception).

NOTE: Our U18 squad looks good, but there is no Walcott or Bale there... yet.
-1


andrew added 17:27 - Dec 23

Mesa 5th rated player? Who the f*ck is submitting votes? He was the best player for us again today.
0


codge added 17:40 - Dec 23

Same old story with there goal wide open in the middle,we never seem to learn our lesson.Shame about Charlie Austin now we will need a striker more than ever to take over for him.This side we put out with so many changes was baffling even allowing for all the games coming up.Now really is going to be a challenge
With the next games coming up
6


helpineedsomebody added 18:15 - Dec 23

LOUIS VAN GAAL
A.S.A.P
PLEASE
-1


bigrob68 added 18:24 - Dec 23

Tadic,Davis,Redmond, Yoshi, Forster all junk today, should have started Boufal, Hojbjerg, and with Cedric and Berty out should have gone 442.
5


DPeps added 18:55 - Dec 23

Tosh, again. The only saving grace is that there’s a lot of other clubs in the PL who are equally terrible this year.

Austin getting injured was inevitable, at least it happened before the end of Jan. If we don’t buy a striker in Jan then I’ve lost all hope. I’d sell Long - a Championship team will pay a few mill for him
4


aceofthebase added 19:55 - Dec 23

Lossl made so many bad moves yet Saints supporters mark him higher than Forster.
-1


leighsaint added 21:51 - Dec 23

Don’t matter how well Yoshida plays he always makes a serious mistake and lets the opposition score he can’t seem to cut out errors
5


Shunter added 22:59 - Dec 23

one shit referee and 3 awful substitutions giving BC full upper hand late in the game after a good R's performance
0


smiffdub added 00:31 - Dec 24

I'm giving Austin a 1 for that GBH on the goalie. But now, whether he's injured or banned or both, we're in deepest mire, coz nobody else on the team can put the ball in the net. But today the basic problem was a compete lack of passion, confidence, fire, willpower, drive, determination, or whatever it takes to make a footballer look like he gives a shit! Plus, the manager doesn't learn. He did this against Arsenal...go one up, then start the 2nd half sitting back, playing deep, assuming your defence will eke out a win. Wrong again. Disastrously wrong.
5


larry12 added 09:29 - Dec 24

Soup in a basket!
2


allsaint54 added 10:45 - Dec 24

Same old same old. Why does MP think playing the same way the results & more importantly the performance will improve. No fight, no passion, no idea. When did we last win a game by starting JWP, Tadic & Redmond? Why oh why doesn't he start Hojbjerg & Boufal ahead of these three. The longer the season goes on the more clueless MP appears.
0


forallthesaints added 13:20 - Dec 24

Oh dear... again. Strange team sheet. Presumably VVD on the naughty step holding a for sale sign. Defence did okay apart from a couple of free headers given away which obviously gave a soft goal (although in the old days a keeper would have gone for that - when I was playing a million years ago anything in the air in the six yard box was keeper's shout - even if he missed he would have disrupted the forward). The midfield was dire, constantly giving it away and never moving up quickly enough when we got possession. Too many times a player had the ball but no one went to help with a run into space and so they easily crowded him off the ball. Davis is a shadow of what we saw for the last few seasons. Hojberg should surely start - he has energy and fight and his passing is improving. Redmond scared them a few times but always seems to make the wrong choice at the last minute. Boufal will not always get it right but he terrifies defenders and has to start. Austin was awful apart from finding a bit of space for the goal. Missed a couple of sitters and when he did hit the target it was straight at the keeper. When the keeper was hurt, I couldn't see what had happened. Now I've seen it on the box and it looks bad. I wish they could make any ban start from when Austin is fit again?! Depressingly predictable and a poor game - the ref was dire as well, I don't even think he saw the worst foul when Targett was cleaned out.
0


smiffdub added 14:38 - Dec 24

I'm giving Austin a 1 for that GBH on the goalie. But now, whether he's injured or banned or both, we're in deepest mire, coz nobody else on the team can put the ball in the net. But today the basic problem was a compete lack of passion, confidence, fire, willpower, drive, determination, or whatever it takes to make a footballer look like he gives a shit! Plus, the manager doesn't learn. He did this against Arsenal...go one up, then start the 2nd half sitting back, playing deep, assuming your defence will eke out a win. Wrong again. Disastrously wrong.
2


TimSaint added 18:39 - Dec 24

Same old same old - another game another load of changes !!
I say all the time that we always carry players and yesterday was no exception.
Static defence should have raised the alarm early on, but we didn't need the warning. Yoshi isn't capable of playing as a man marker. He has cost us so much in recent games - Hudd, Arse, Burn, the foul for the Chelsea free kick goal, then there are the key misses at the other end - Hudd, Man City and Swans and only has the West Ham pen to compensate.
Stephens isn't a right back and has the worst passing / distribution in the team.
Red has no confidence at all, but should have had 3 goals if he was more direct. Frustrating again always cutting in or even sprinting back in the wrong direction with the ball at one stage in the 2nd half. He did set Charlie up and he should have made it 2-0 but he shot wide,, then Hudd go up the other end and score.
Now Charlie is out, we have nobody to score. Gab did nothing when he came on and as fast and menacing Long is, he can't buy a goal.
If we don't tighten up all over the park and get some hunger back, the Spurs game will be worse than how Stoke performed there the other week !!
0


underweststand added 17:46 - Dec 25

We looked distinctly unimpressive against a rather-ordinary looking Huddersfield outfit. Very nervy in the first 20 mins. yet gave everyone a chance to draw breath after Charlie Austin's stooping header.
There's really no defence for his foot-up challenge on the keeper. Although I'm glad we have cameras available and retrospective punishments. Saints have had their 's now and we can only hope that everyone learns from this, but to victimise Charlie may only be a forerunner to what is seen from Andy Carroll when he gets back into the WHam line-up, and some of those " tough guys" at Watford and Stoke.

As for Saints' lack of goals ...Words escape me. £50 million worth of "talent " - is that the word ? Whatever Redmond did well last season had deserted him now, and Gabbiadini seems to have lost it , whilst Boufals wonderful skills would be better used inside the box, and not on the halfway line.

IF the VvD deal comes off, then let's hope we sign , at least TWO strikers who can actually score. The only real question who will be manager come 31st January and have the chance to play them. MP's reign may be shorter than that if we don't have at least 2- 3 more points on the board come January 2nd. 2nd. It maybe a tough call, but that's the Premie League for you.
Don't bother having a competition about the line-up on Boxing Day..without Cedric, Bertrand and Austin
..the side practicallty picks itself. Everyone says we must turn the corner soon..but it looks like a long road until then.




0


codge added 15:57 - Dec 26

Another sad performance from highly paid so called professional football players.I would say only Hojbjerg and Boufal showed any passion today. Defense a shambles all over the place no clue what so ever and as for Forster will he ever come out for a cross.Same mistakes week after week we never learn our lessons.I have supported Saints for 63 years since l was a lad of 10 and never have l seen a team pla Ying with less passion than this lot,over paid Prima Donna's
8


SanMarco added 16:26 - Dec 26

Woeful defending throughout - very depressing. Big changes needed next month. I remember us losing 5-1 at Spuds in our last relegation season. Is MP the new Steve Wigley? There is a certain haplessness or dare I say cluelessness about him that means we are not even the basics right. The marking and FF were rubbish for the first goal and a set of well placed dustbins could have defended the second one as well as their human equivalents did. I'm too down to even comment on the third, fourth and fifth. Puel was uninspiring but he wouldn't have allowed that to happen today. Spuds barely broke sweat and found themselves 4-0 up. Not good at all and goodness knows what will happen now. If the new owner has no money then we may be facing a repeat of the 2005 onwards fiasco - it is possible. Hopefully the VVD sale money will be spent on reinforcements - on this showing we need at least 4 in and as many out. Codge was a youngster when Redmond and Long last scored...
9


helpineedsomebody added 16:27 - Dec 26

the owner after morgaging the club for over £700 million pounds might be a bit upset with his employees now

he is the only one who can solve these problems now

ITS HIS CLUB GET IT RIGHT & HE COULD BECOME A TRILLION AIR , BUT SINCE 1885 NEVER HAS THIS CLUB BEEN PROPERLY INVESTED IN OVER TO YOU NOW MR GAO I WILL BE WITH YOU ALL THE WAY IF YOU ARE RADICAL
1


SanMarco added 16:28 - Dec 26

Yes - before anyone points it out, Rednapp was manager by the time of the Spuds 5-1 but I think my point still holds.
0


larry12 added 17:06 - Dec 26

Only problem. I would like to give Les Reed a baseball bat, applied to his facial faecestures, the dogshiiitee useless t^rd. He is the problem, dumb tossers.
0


DPeps added 17:12 - Dec 26

Simply put, conceding soft goals and an inability to score is a worrying combination.
Big changes needed in jan. Getting rid of MP might be part of the solution, but that is not THE ONLY solution.
We have seen the dismantling of a decent team over the last few years and now we’re feeling it. We need at least 1 midfielder and 1 striker, desperately
6


DPeps added 17:14 - Dec 26

... oh and a defender if VVD is off
3


DPeps added 17:31 - Dec 26

... oh and a defender if VVD is off
0


leighsaint added 18:10 - Dec 26

Spurs had only 1 Dier on the pitch we might not have anyone with that name but we had at least nine who should have that name because that’s what their performance was like. Our manager is the worst I can remember f1946 including Ian Brandford, he is totally clueless in tactics and motivation in 20 games under his control we have gone so far back that I think even Eastleigh could beat us. I was going to say the Poo but we could never go that low could we.

2


TimSaint added 19:27 - Dec 26

Think they had the Team Christmas party last night !!
Never seen such an inept, unmotivated, lazy performance. Even us Saints fans were singing you're getting sacked in the morning and a bloke near me was betting on his phone at 1-0 that Kane would get a Hatrick - Nuff said
2


FaroSaint added 20:41 - Dec 26

I predicted 4-0 Spurs and for a time it was right only Saints playing in the last 20 minutes like they should have all game changed that . Sad to say but its goodbye to MP you just didnt make the grade.
We need a new manager discard the slackers and malcontents and rebuild quickly or its the Championship next year .
3


forallthesaints added 21:50 - Dec 26

So poor. I'm getting tired of saying "that's the worst half of football I've seen them play in years" every week. I think some of the fans' reactions provoked a pick-up in the second half and there some signs but then ridiculous mistakes like Redmond's pass upfield to the Spurs midfield for the fourth goal. Forster has been getting some his mojo back in the last few weeks but today he was in Fairyland - awful positioning and, I hate to say it, an apparent lack of bravery. The defence and midfield were like American Football special teams - never seen together on the pitch. Long was tireless but had no support when we did break. Romeu was playing angry in the second half which at least seems to have shaken off the dream he's been in for most of the season. I was impressed with Tadic's determination when he came on but he seemed to want to solve the whole problem on his own and that led to different problems. And, while the overall performance was a horror show there was a good deal of effort from most of them. They just aren't playing well and it seems they either don't understand what the manager is trying to get them to do or he doesn't understand what they are capable of. Maybe getting rid of him would work but who else is there, we haven't even got anyone who could be a caretaker for the Christmas period. Either we get someone in within the next few days - Monk, Tuchel, [insert name] - or we have to give MP time to use the transfer window. I honestly don't hold out any hope that we'll get anyone significant in and we may well lose VVD, Cedric and Bertrand. Finally, credit to those players who came all the way over to applaud the Saints fans despite the fact that they'd been booed, and that some of them gave their shirts away. They showed some humility. Shame that Fraser didn't even cross the halfway line before trudging off. Off to Old Trafford on Saturday. Happy Bloody Holidays!
3


forallthesaints added 21:51 - Dec 26

*some positive signs*
0


larry12 added 22:10 - Dec 26

So called educated pathetic morons ignore who appointed MOPE and concentrate on him. Reed gave him his squad you pathetic morons and he is the problem. Reed is the problem you pathetic morons not anything else. Finally concentrate on getting rid of Reed you morons. I have been telling you for 2 years you pathetic morons.
-4


the_saint added 09:20 - Dec 27

Even though Larry12 does go a bit over the top I do tend to agree with him, for a few years we have been selling our top players and replacing with not as good. The last two managers appointed have been awful who does the buck stop with? Reed head of recruitment. I could go on my x box put fifa disc in and do his job and I’m not even joking
0


SanMarco added 09:50 - Dec 27

If larry12 is suggesting that the majority of fans, educated or otherwise, are not concerned over Reed's performance I think he is wrong. It is also not an either/or: MP's fault or Reed's. Both are useless in my view - and both should go.
1


the_saint added 11:01 - Dec 27

Agreed with larry12 on reed should go not all the other spew that he writes
-1


smiffdub added 21:16 - Dec 30

Almost like a different team to the one that got embarrassed on Boxing Day! Maybe the VVD issue really was affecting performance? Or maybe MP just woke up and realised that sitting back isn't the same as defending well, and that defending well means being prepared to push forward too. There were times when Saints were pushing MUtd back with 8 players camped in their half...impressive. Now if only there were one bloke who could actually score a goal, we'd be laughing. If this is how we can play when MP looses the leash a bit, we'll probably be safe; get in a goalscorer this week and we'll definitely be safe. Meanwhile, massive effort by the back four, but still Hojbjerg was head and shoulders above the rest of them. Special mention for McCarthy....and for MP for having finally made that decision.
14


halftimeorange added 21:26 - Dec 30

Much improved, Boufal given his head and occasionally losing it. Hojbjerg showed real class and capability, constantly breaking up United's attacks in midfield. McCarthy looked as though he'd been in between the posts all season and his kicking was mainly decent and he actually came for crosses, although he didn't always reach them. Downside was our failure to cross the ball on the ground, we lost most stuff played at head height. I think MP has to start this team against Palace with perhaps JWP making way for Gabbiadini as we have to have attacking purpose at home.
8


TimSaint added 21:29 - Dec 30

A first clean sheet for what, 11 games ? I certainly cheered this like a win !!
A full spirited performance which has been missing since the Everton game.
All played well, some really well - which is encouraging, as we usually have to carry 2/3/4 bad performers every game !! PEH was superb, as was Hoedt.

Perhaps 2nd choice Keeper, 3rd choice left back, 3rd choice right back and 2nd choice centre back is the way forward !!

Same attitude on Tuesday night please lads and a few goals as well !!
8


codge added 22:11 - Dec 30

Much better performance from a team that showed up and put in a great team effort.
McCarthy showed what a keeper is about, not only played great but actually have a keeper that comes of his line.
6


forallthesaints added 22:34 - Dec 30

Sooo much better. Really great effort from the starting 11 - so much more ooomph. Played well from back to front and some pretty moves that nearly ended with a goal. Long was so unlucky that De Gea denied him (and before anyone says Austin would have scored - no, he wouldn't, he wouldn't have got anywhere near the ball). The energy and commitment was all there and we didn't let Manure play. McCarthy did well without ever being sorely tested but he actually came out and claimed a couple of crosses. And the one he came for and missed put the striker off - it would otherwise have been a routine header but he did enough to prevent the striker from getting his head on it. Everyone put in a brilliant shift and while it's too early to judge, let's hope we've reached the corner and will be turning it soon. The only negative note was that Lemina was terrible when he came on, giving the ball away every time it came anywhere near him and not really making any tackles. He seems out of sorts and perhaps he's not fully recovered from his injury because before the knock he was awesome.
5


smiffdub added 23:18 - Dec 30

Almost like a different team to the one that got embarrassed on Boxing Day! Maybe the VVD issue really was affecting performance? Or maybe MP just woke up and realised that sitting back isn't the same as defending well, and that defending well means being prepared to push forward too. There were times when Saints were pushing MUtd back with 8 players camped in their half...impressive. Now if only there were one bloke who could actually score a goal, we'd be laughing. If this is how we can play when MP looses the leash a bit, we'll probably be safe; get in a goalscorer this week and we'll definitely be safe. Meanwhile, massive effort by the back four, but still Hojbjerg was head and shoulders above the rest of them. Special mention for McCarthy....and for MP for having finally made that decision.
2


sidsaint added 23:44 - Dec 30

Good turnaround after last week's abject performance. Some excellent shifts from the back 4 and the 2 holding. Felt sorry for Long after De Gea's save with his feet. Tuesday will be huge.
5


FaroSaint added 23:59 - Dec 30

Totally agree with SmiffDub a different team full of desire and passion . Saints could easily have won snd only De Gea denied them. Great performance by all but well done especially to Mcarthy who controlled his area and dominated . Just could do with someone who can perform like Salah . Dreams eh !!!
4


pete_boggs added 00:28 - Dec 31

If he plays Forster again he's mental. The team had fifty times the confidence and resilience with a live body between the sticks.
7


underweststand added 21:25 - Jan 1

it seems that the line-ups we play away are almost more positive than those at home. We didn't play badly at Man City, or Chelsea and the latest performance was certainly well worth the Point.
Tbf ..McCarthy didn't have a lot to do, but what he did do ..he did well. Good performances from Stepehens and Mc Queen and best viewing of JWP for a while (three Academy graduates , eh ?)
MOM def. Hojbjerg ..who really looks the part and Hoedt is finding his feet, too.

Don't know what changes MP will make for Tuesdsay, but we need someone else up front to help Long, who still runs his heart out - (when is he going to score ?)
0


pete_boggs added 22:36 - Jan 2

Large heap of s***e.
2


pete_boggs added 22:36 - Jan 2

Large heap of s***e.
2


petedoors1 added 22:45 - Jan 2

PELLEGRINO MUST GO, KRUEGER MUST GO AND REED MUST GO.
LOTS OF MONEY MUST BE SPENT.
6


codge added 22:55 - Jan 2

I give up,what happened to us in the second half, a different team showed up than the first half.l lost count how many times we gave the ball away, you could see the game slipping away at the start of the second half we went to sleep as though one goal would be enough.Manager has to go but probably won't.
4


dirk_doone added 23:12 - Jan 2

Reed's dealings over the last two years have weakened the club in very area from top to bottom. If Les Reed doesn't go now we are in real danger of following Sunderland and Hull down to the bottom of the Championship next season. Remember Wolves Reserves beat us easily.
7


PJ17 added 23:14 - Jan 2

A New Year and nothing has changed. 1-0 up and the idiot decides to shut up shop. Send on Steven Davis and shore up the midfield. Palace score and plan A is still go. On goes Davis, Gabbiadini and Redmond that should secure us a win. By then Townsend, Zaha and Sako are running riot. Then Palace score the winner and Saints have lost what little fight they have left. This team is playing worse than ever. Pellegrono's selections and substitutions are becoming even more unfathomable. How the hell are we going to persuade anyone to come here. Turn in a great performance and you're dropped from the team for the next match. Turn in a poor performance and you start every week. Never mind at least the board believe you are doing a great job. This great club of ours is being torn apart. I started this season believing we could hold on to a top mid table position. The last two months have me convinced that we will be playing championship football next season. The board must act now and sack this clown.
4


larry12 added 23:28 - Jan 2

If Saints go down, Reed can retire and Kreuger can resign, leaving Saints behind them without a thought. They both need to go now. Forster could have been sub all this season so far and we might be 6 to 10 points better off. Prowse is no better than anybody else at spot kicks. Statistically. I free kick miles too hard and 1 short corner completely c*cked up.
5


dovif added 23:28 - Jan 2

I guess this proves les reed is a genius. He has already created a championship caliber team for next year already
7


forallthesaints added 23:47 - Jan 2

One step forward, five steps back. After the efforts at Old Trafford, there was life in the first half with lots of chances early on and plenty of pressure against a jittery defence. Very happy for Long who worked as hard as ever but largely on his own up front. Then came the second half. God knows what was in the half-time tea. Suddenly Saints started the pitter-patter play at the back and the Palace players sniffed a bit of blood and ran all over us. It was only a matter of time before they scored although Benteke was offside before he headed on to McArthur. But once they got one back, there was only one team in it. The pitch was not in a condition to play such intricate stuff at the back and Palace just kept on winning it back. A disastrous performance in the second half. And while we surrendered and didn't really deserve the win, the ref was utterly woeful letting God knows what go on including a rugby-style straight arm hand-off on Boufal and a stonewall penalty on Gabbiadini when he was pulled back on the far post.
7


dirk_doone added 00:13 - Jan 3

@dovif

If only.

Wolves Reserves beat us easily.

We look more like Sunderland, a team which can't even cope with the challenges of the Championship.

Sadly, Les Reed hasn't prepared us for anything other than decline. He has got rid of every manager, coach, scout and player who worked to bring the club success and almost every new appointment he makes in management and in the coaching and playing staff is worse than the previous one.
4


smiffdub added 04:51 - Jan 3

Sadder than the result itself is the manager after the match throwing the players under the bus, talking about HIS tactics as if they were the team's fault. We've all said before this season...you can't sit back on a 1-0 lead in the PL, it doesn't mater what team you are. The opposition will ALWAYS push back and don;t need more than a second of good luck to draw level. This manager has lost us so many points by sitting back, and now he's trying to distance himself from the tactics as if they weren't his responsibility! Pathetic!
Meanwhile, nobody on our side played so terribly that we deserved to lose, but very few seemed to care whether we won or not. The fullbacks were the exception--Pied was excellent and Bertrand pretty solid. And Hojbjerg was again imposing, but those three seemed unable to inspire the rest.
I haven't been cvalling for MP's head so far, but have been very critical of his tactics--defensive at the wrong times and attacking when it's too late. But now that he's trying to blame the players for doing what he's been making them do all season, I've lost all sympathy. He really needs to go before he loses us any more points/
4


SaintPaulVW added 06:44 - Jan 3

So Palace have just scored and are bossing midfield, not too sure why you would swap a seemingly fit and playing well PEH for Gabbi?

Grasping at straws.
3


landerwal added 07:55 - Jan 3

The tactics and attitude were appalling. Playing a lone striker whilst Palace have three up front is asking for trouble. In the second half Palace came out to scrap for every ball. They tore into Saints like there was no tomorrow and got a deserved win. We on the other hand just seem to want to hang on in the forlorn hope hope of seeing out the 90 minutes.
2


aceofthebase added 08:26 - Jan 3

Did anyone see the manager telling the players to sit back in defence for and during the second half and not to attack. No, it's the players that must take the blame as it was under Puel.
0


dovif added 10:54 - Jan 3

@aceoffbase

It they were not following the coaches instruction. The coach should send new instructions out to them. Or make substitutions, it is still up to the coaches
2


codge added 17:39 - Jan 6

Not really sure what to say other than we did what we had to do.
Yet again second half we made more hard work for ourselves than needed to be, l really do like Boufal but it's getting old seeing him always trying to beat every player on the pitch and ending up giving the ball away as the end result.Still a win was much needed but can't see much of an improvement in our approach to this game but hope springs eternal and l am trying to keep the faith.
6


aceofthebase added 17:53 - Jan 6

I thought that we missed an opportunity to bed in our new signings!
3


pete_boggs added 19:20 - Jan 6

We found our level.
4


larry12 added 19:56 - Jan 6

Redmond a complete tosser.
1


Harbour added 20:41 - Jan 6

In truth we should have won given the multitude of chances we created but neither big Smith or little snyth could convert any of the chances.A shocker of a mistake by Scowen masked a busy performance from him and freeman....but we lacked the quality to finish and this is a problem ...there huge defenders the number 8 was a giant and they snuffed out smith we need other options where from who knows....it’s decades since I saw a qpr cup win I need to stop going to cup games
0


SaintPaulVW added 21:37 - Jan 6

I'm now more hopeful of us both getting to and doing well in the Championship with other small clubs. Investment strategy intact. Go Soccerballers!
2


MickB added 22:37 - Jan 6

Two moves R's practice in training:
Endless short passing triangles, next to the touchline.
Long balls from deep to Smith, who isn't really much use with his back to goal.

& how many goals from distance have we scored this season?
0


smiffdub added 06:49 - Jan 7

Gawd! Wretched football once again. But a reminder of where we're at...we have a manager whose tactical habits are ingrained and they might be sufficient to get hi through a season in the Championship. Against better opposition the sit-back-on-1/0-lead aproach will usually fail (as we've seen this season(. Even the the opposition doesn't bite your hand off, a ref's decision here or there, or a bound bounce here or there, anything really, can produce a goal against you. Luckily, Fulham didn't have it. But there's the word...luckily. I've said before here, MP is a reckless gambler, betting against the odds that his fragile team won't concede. His obstinacy in this recklessness is what's going to send us down this year.
3


LoisDeem added 10:40 - Jan 8

Even against Fulham, we exposed our main shortcoming, playing someone up with that lone striker.
Would have been a good time to try, but then you can trust our bone headed board/committee that pick the team to put JWP in that role, even though he's an accomplished supplier to our invisible duo. Well taken goal James.
0


petedoors1 added 17:14 - Jan 13

MUST BE SACKED IN THE MORNING
5


codge added 17:28 - Jan 13

We're to start well we did it again forgot t this is a 90 in game not 45.Give credit first half again we played well but why oh why do we play like we have done now all season just back off and hope to on hang on and it hasn't worked all year long.Have to admit there second was awful miss by the ref and linesman but it was coming all game.Sad to say the miss by the Ref will probably keep PM in his job
2


codge added 17:28 - Jan 13

Should of been MP.
0


pete_boggs added 17:36 - Jan 13

Good game. Should move Soares up to CF and give Prowsey and Davis Knighthoods.
-2


leighsaint added 18:39 - Jan 13

MOPO2 must go up to halftime we had the game in the bag. Don’t know what’s in the drink or managers talk at halftime but a different team came out. First half look like their old selves second half team as per normal for this season. He must have known by now you just can’t sit back and defend with the defence we now have, obviously he just don’t comprehend this and must go to make way for someone that does.
2


TimSaint added 19:10 - Jan 13

We never learn
How many times have we been in front and then go all defensive - only to concede
Opposing teams know how to play us - just go for it and put an extra man up front and we have no clue how to defend and will definitely wilt under the added pressure we invite on ourselves.

Burnley went for it and won, Hudd went for it when losing and got a draw, Palace went for it and turned a defeat into a win and Watford went for it and came back from 2 down to get a win. Time and time again this happens but we never learn, are too slow to react and wait til it is too late when making subs.

Yes today Davis lost it for the first goal and defenders should have reacted quicker once it came back off the bar. Yes Stephens crucially slipped and it was hand ball for their second, but we played so negatively in the second half and invited the pressure.

I am struggling to see why this is such a trait - especially after having played so well in the first half. Oh to have scored a couple more when we were so on top.

A old turn out today and plenty of positive singing and support - only a little bit of negativity at the end towards MP, which turned towards the ref instead, once it filtered through to everyone that their equaliser was deliberate hand ball.

The ref was a power mad idiot who gave Saints too many unnecessary cards for things he let Watford get away with and ultimately he got the biggest decision of the lot wrong - but of course nothing will happen to him or the Watford player.

Oh well, it is only Spurs up next !!
11


forallthesaints added 19:32 - Jan 13

So frustrating once again. Excellent display in the first half with two well worked goals and solid at the back - Watford didn't really have a sniff. Then the bromide in the half time tea again and we're watching a fired up Watford piling on the pressure and it was inevitable that the panic would set in. Davis inexplicably turned and gave the ball away for the first and it was only a matter of time before the second and, even though it was handball, you felt that another goal was coming.
Regardless of Saints sitting back and waiting for it, it has to be said that Roger East was beyond a joke throughout the game. Long was being assaulted every time the ball went anywhere near him and we got maybe 2 out of 10 decisions. And in the build-up to the goal, there was a foul around halfway when the defender had both hands on (I think) Tadic's shoulder and pushed him to the floor and it was given as a throw-in to Watford. Then there was the most ridiculous foul throw, the ball moves forward and the points are gone. I counted at least 15 foul throws (most by the Watford left back). It got to the stage that people around me were laughing at how many were being missed. If we can see it that far away, how do two officials constantly miss it? And the second Watford goal could make the difference between staying up or going down.
But finally, having said all that about terrible officials, Saints brought the pressure on themselves instead of pressing on and looking for another goal. Scoring just before half time is supposed to be a big boost but it triggered the decision to sit back and let them come at us.
6


SanMarco added 19:43 - Jan 13

Since the end of the match I have been wondering whether the referee costing us the win would be more prominent in comments than the MP out narrative. I have just read MP's post-match interview and I would praise it for being very dignified given the desperately disappointing error by the officials. If MP does go then we MUST have a quality replacement ALREADY lined up. We basically won that game today and if it is MP's last game then we should remember that.
7


larry12 added 20:15 - Jan 13

Man impersonates a football manager and somehow never does the best starting 11 and never ever does the right subs at the right time
2


underweststand added 15:39 - Jan 16

If justice was seen to be be done..we had the game won 2-1 after 90 minutes.

If justice was seen to be done, then the goal shouldn't have stood and the player involved should be suspended. IF we fail to survive at the end of the season , we can all look back at this game as recall it.

IF one good thing came out of the whole fiasco, it is that 5 years after his Prem. debut, JWP has finally found a role he can function in . As a player who can make a good pass and shoot on sight. he deserves a real chance in that position, whilst Shane Long " deserves " a goal a game - just for sheer effort.
0


Bettwsresident added 10:10 - Jan 22

Went expecting the worst but great atmosphere, well done all fans and really encouraging game...Pellegrino playing PEH as a centre-forward was inspired and gave us a fulcrum in attack we haven't had since Pelle. PEH worked his socks off, but is not a number 9, and I can only think it was Pellegrino proving to Les what we need. If so, job done.

CB's were solid, with Stephens looking classy at times, Cedric gave everything, Betrand was solid and combined really well with Tadic, and had a brilliant late intervention to avoid turning in Kanes shot. Midfield was solid and committed and bossed the first half and held its own in the 2nd until we sat back.... but why can't we finish?! Gilt edge chances for Manolo, PEH in first 10 mins, then Obafemi and Boufal in last 10mins. We should have scored from at least 2 of them, and until we start too, we are going to be reliant on team performances like that until CA comes back/we sign a number 9.
3


underweststand added 14:59 - Jan 22

Although we didn't score the goal, but were well worth the point, and with better luck (where have I heard that before?)..might have had all 3.

Bertrand, JWP and Hjobjerg all quite outstanding, as were Cedric and Tadic (for once). Cb's Stephens and Hoedt held Spurs front line to only one goal, and that was an improvement on Boxing Day.

Encouraging, but the next 2-3 games will be vital to a rise in the table..wait and see.

Hope for a continuation of this new-found formation v. Watford , as a good Cup-run would be some sort of compensation for an otherwise disppointing seasons start.
2


SaintBrock added 15:10 - Jan 22

Turned out to be a fairly even contest in conditions that defied the playing of anything resembling good football. We seem to be able to deal with the threat from Spurs' fast running athleticism more effectively than one might have expected having seen Spurs run riot against Everton the other da. Top marks to everyone for effort in appalling conditions that even challenged spectators to venture outdoors let alone trek up to St Mary's.
4


pete_boggs added 15:29 - Jan 22

Still can't score a goal. Will Reedy address that this millenium?
2


forallthesaints added 00:04 - Jan 23

Great atmosphere and a really good effort from the team and, even though it was an own goal, the pressure beforehand made it a deserved strike.
I've been really impressed with Tadic in the last few weeks - he's obviously aware of some of the stick he's been getting but, fair play to him, he's dug in and has really grafted and made some good moves in this game.
Cedric and Bertrand slotting back in has made the team more dangerous in attack. Lemina seems to be slowly getting back to the form he showed before his injury. It's also good to see that Hojbjerg and JWP have made themselves almost undroppable (although they might be rested for the cup game).
I've seen some pretty nasty social media comments about Obafemi's miss but I've seen many established internationals miss sitters. He knows what he did wrong (he was very honest in his interview) and he might have a couple of sleepless nights reliving it but at least he got into the right place - having seen some of his goals for the U18s, he's a good prospect and I hope he gets another run-out before too long.
Gabbiadini was disappointing. He may well be frustrated at not getting picked for a few weeks since Austin came back and then Long being favoured. But he's a professional and he should have grabbed his chance but he was lacklustre to say the least. A couple of pretty tame shots which the keeper dealt with easily and an airshot. But what was most disappointing was his lack of chasing and harrying off the ball.
And, my God, Friend seems to get worse every time he sets foot in SMS. Dembele should have been booked early on and might have got a second yellow. I was particularly livid when Stephens was booked for fouling Kane after Kane had given him a forearm slug in the throat and was pushing before falling in reaction to the slightest resistance. None of the officials for the last two or three years have been good enough but Friend is close to being the worst.
Anyway, a well-deserved point that could have been three (although they had one or two cast iron chances towards the end). The first time we've taken points from Spurs at home since we've been back up.
3


Bison added 18:30 - Jan 27

Deffo looked like a penalty when Long was brought down. Should really have been more than 1-0 but happy enough with that.
1


aceofthebase added 18:37 - Jan 27

Didn't see the game but why did Guido rate so poorly?
0


mattthelegend added 19:12 - Jan 27

Really should have been 3 or 4 nil , but same old story in front of goal 😡. By far the better team , Watford were woeful as highlighted by the argument at the end between players and fans. Didn’t get MP,s substitution we were all over Watford, unless his concern was we weren’t going to score another , but obvious plan would have been to bring on another striker. Still a win is a win and into the hat. Next up Brighton same attitude and commitment and we should be okay. Any news on Bertrand? Can’t really comment on Guido wasn’t on the pitch long enough, won a header got into a good position but poor pass by Long.
2


sidsaint added 21:07 - Jan 27

Created many chances, conversion rate poor as usual. Earlier substitutions from the manager which is an improvement but why go defensive and shut up shop when we were dominating the game? Still its been a long time waiting for a win and it feels good as does being in round 5 without a replay and a clean sheet. Lets build on this against Brighton and West Brom.
4


SaintBrock added 11:02 - Jan 28

We are turning into Stoke!
1


cockneyswan added 08:54 - Jan 31

Arsenal have many clever pretty footballers, but when things went against them they had no fight, Swansea simply wanted it more and out fought Arsenal.
0


codge added 22:19 - Jan 31

This is getting hard to take from the team selection again baffling to say the least, we were never set up to win this game again.Four players that cost a fortune on the bench that should of started, this manager is clueless.We are in the s- - t for sure unless there is a massive change and l can't see that happening.
9


DPeps added 22:28 - Jan 31

Bizarre team selection. Bottom line is if you can't beat Brighton once in a season then you're in deep do-do.

Doesn't look like we're signing anyone else, unless Les has something up his sleeve. Pretty rubbish day!
7


petedoors1 added 23:07 - Jan 31

Another easy to win game wasted because of bad team selections. How can you have Saints 4 dearest players sat on the Bench? When are we going to put out an attacking team? This manager has to GO and before our next game. Looking at the games we have left I can see us getting 14 points at most. Gives us 37 points .
2


SanMarco added 00:12 - Feb 1

Yes - team selection and tactics baffling but also a lack of real quality throughout the team. Brighton were a poor side playing poorly and we struggled to get a point. Kreuger and Reed sat in the stands obviously thinking that these players and this manager can get us playing well enough to stay up - they obviously know something that I don't. Pathetic tonight and for the first time I am really beginning to believe relegation is a strong possibility.
4


TimSaint added 02:33 - Feb 1

Ridiculously light-weight midfield against a team that would normally be there for the taking.

Davis was poor and even more so as captain. He didn't rally the troops and certainly didn't lead by example - in fact you could tell after 5 mins that the team were not up for it tonight and that we would struggle. He surely wasn't that great against Watford in the cup to oust Hojbjerg in the front midfield position at the expense of Lemina ?

Then factor in Tadic having a mare, his replacement not at all interested - let alone not knowing when to shoot, playing Long up on his own, no midfield support to Long, a £19m striker who didn't win a header, an Italian International striker who is clearly not interested, giving away a stupid soft penalty and generating what, 3 shots of note on target - no wonder we were poor !!

At least we didn't go all defensive and negative when going into the last 20 mins - we were already playing that way anyway !! All that backward passing bollox, hot potato, you have it - no you have it because I don't know what to do with it and don't want the responsibility of crossing or shooting !! It was like watching a Purpose team or us earlier this season. Why couldn't they at least try to play like the did against Spurs and give it a go ?

Not looking forward to Saturday now - as we could be bottom by 5pm. City did put 3 past them tonight though, so they can be beaten easily despite their cup heroics, but whether MP will watch a tape to see how to do this, is another matter entirely !!
6


10i added 08:48 - Feb 1

We don't have to go on about MP any more, he's f*cking useless and hasn't got a clue, and he does prove it every game. Though you would think he gives Reed an easy excuse for firing him, as MP doesn't Play any of Reed's latest heroics. Lemina, Gabbiadini, Boufal, Redmond and Carillo not starting. Forster, one of our most expensive Players who has been given a needless contract Extension in the summer, on the bench. Bednarek not even in contention in a CD, that is Relegation Standard for a year now (unfortunately it seems rightly so).

Starting an attacking 4 with JWP, Davis and Long is just ridiculous. Tadic is able to create a lot, but he Needs Players around him who can score.

Two situations describe best what the offensive Problems are:
Once in the first half Bertrand entered the box with pace, looking up and seeing Davis and JWP Jogging along in the middle not even trying to make a run so he shoots from a very bad angle.
Second: Boufal makes a goalbound cross and despite nobody being able to reach that cross initially, noone even follows it. The GK lost control but it didn't matter. Austin would have scored that one, even I would have. This is what a real golascorer, a poacher, has to do. To anticipate what might happen, to get into positions where you might score. It's not really about "standing" in the right place, you firstly have to get there. Sometimes you have to hope for a mistake to happen, but you may never stop going there, just because it seems unlikely. It's the difference between a Forward and a poacher. And it did prove the statistics we all knew before, that Carillo is no replacement for Austin as he was one Standing and watching and just started moving when the GK lost it. You have to move a Long time before that to capitalize..
6


10i added 08:50 - Feb 1

BTW: Leaving the shocking Davis on at half time was another one of MPs heroics. Watching 45 minutes of Football and not having a clue who your weakest Performer is..
4


SaintBrock added 09:25 - Feb 1

There are no words....
4


EDLiner added 10:21 - Feb 1

Time to drop Davis, Romeu and Tadic. Put Lemina, Boufal and Gabbi in their place.

I know Romeu is a battler but that is all he is. If we continue to play this system then we don't need someone like that. We need pace and skill and someone to get us going forward. Oh well the season ticket will be cheaper next year.
3


forallthesaints added 11:20 - Feb 1

See last week's match report! Thought I'd been transported in time to Saturday at West Brom when I saw the team sheet. At least he changed things at half time but by then Brighton had settled into their defensive groove and we were lucky with the equaliser. Stephens and Ward-Prowse were our best players, both striving to get the ball forward but so often one player moves out quickly with the ball only to have to stop and wait for the others to catch him up. When Brighton broke, they had seven or eight players rushing forward giving options. You could tell how frustrated Stephens was getting at the slowness and he probably took the ball further forward and more often than I'd seen him do in the past, purely because he felt that no one else was playing with enough urgency. Tadic is the eternal enigma - playing well for a few weeks but then having a poor one again. But with the team set-up he was always going to struggle to make an impact. Cedric was cancelled out by the pace of Izquierdo and rarely got space going forward. Boufal seemed to get a knock in the ribs within minutes of coming on and that affected his involvement for the rest of the game. Carillo looks a handful but was easily dealt with by Dunk and Duffy. Sadly Gabbiadini looks like he's almost given up.
Davis is, sadly as I've been a big fan of his, off the pace these days. He has few ideas and loses it more often than not. And Romeu has been a shadow of the player he was last season and constantly gave the ball away.
Which begs the question, what is wrong with Lemina. He had a dip in form after his injury but was showing improvement recently and really needs a run in the side, replacing Davis. And, while Redmond has few fans these days, he is a dangerous player when he's on song but I don't think he's played since getting 10 minutes at Fulham.
This squad has plenty of talent that is either not firing or being ignored.
It comes to something when the only consolation I can muster is that at least we're not being hammered on a regular basis so our goal difference may be the difference between us and some of the others at the end of a horrid season.
1


underweststand added 11:53 - Feb 1

no comment.
2


Fakaff added 12:54 - Feb 1

How the hell did Steven Davis get to play the entire match?
3


Fakaff added 13:17 - Feb 1

Is Davis on drugs, by the way? Great post match interview, scratching his face, lips all blue, and rubbing his big, swollen nose. No more games for Steven.
2


the_saint added 18:27 - Feb 3

Thought mp got his team selection and subs right today wow can’t believe I’ve just said that after todays result would not be surprised if reed gave him a 5 year contract. Anyway credit where credit due we’ll done to mp and the boys for a great result I can look at the league table again.
5


Bison added 18:37 - Feb 3

Lemini was immense , JWP as well.

New kid has plenty to think he could be good.

Just play the strongest team each game and worry about the next game after.
2


the_saint added 18:46 - Feb 3

I still worry about our defence and think nick was right and our priority should have been a c/b in the transfer window
2


the_saint added 18:55 - Feb 3

I still worry about our defence and think nick was right and our priority should have been a c/b in the transfer window
0


codge added 19:06 - Feb 3

A much needed result, at least we set out a team that on paper looked like being able to score some goals. We still looked a bit soft in the middle of defense but managed to hold on.Overall l was pleased with the effort from us today and have to give props to the manager this time around.Next week will be a good test to see if we can carry this form forward, Carrillo look to be a good addition so onward and upward.
5


patred added 19:26 - Feb 3

so right about cb, Stephens got brushed off the ball so easily for thier goal, just as Spurs did to him at corners.
Very soon every team will suss this, if they havent already.
5


SaintBrock added 21:24 - Feb 3

Many will think that this result makes The Clown safe but I have a hunch it will do just the opposite. Having delivered a scraped win after dominating much of the match and improved team morale now is the time I suspect that the board will act.

Don't be at all surprised if they sack him on Monday and a new manager comes in to take over a buoyant team after a win and in a very good mood to go out and tackle the Scousers. The new manager won't have time to get to know his team before next Sunday so the same team can trot out and the new guy can play around with details on field. If we lose so be it there guy will be blameless and have a little more time to settle in and impart his ideas before the winnable matches come along.

Also, Adam Blackmore is the most useless commentator I have ever heard, spends all his time opionating and getting distracted by "Dave's" endless repetitions thereby missing 90% of the action, forgetting that we radio listeners haven't a clue what's going on on the pitch.
0


ChristchurchSaint added 22:13 - Feb 3

As pleased as I was with the result, I don’t think it hides the underlying problems. The players seemed to want to be there today but WBA are almost certainly going down, so next week’s match will be totally different. The one positive I can see is that if MP keeps the same team, then we will go into that match with some confidence. Having said that, I fear that Liverpool will run riot if our defence doesn’t perform at 100%.
3


Shunter added 22:25 - Feb 3

3 points and a clean sheet - that will do!
1


10i added 23:19 - Feb 3

Finally MP got a starting lineup right - and look what a difference that makes. I also agreed with the Subs, I maybe would have brought Hojbjerg 6-7 minutes earlier...

Lemina was his usual self, played incredibly dominant and assured. Like he did before he was injured and benched for a reason only MP knows. Lemina for sure again proved the manager how wrong it is to not Play him.

Though Stephen's Goal was a great Header, our CD obvously still is the main concern. We were crying out loud for a new one, but somehow we weren't even linked with anybody. It's a bit frustrating that it seems the board and/or the Manager don't seem to see this.

A good win with some good Goals, but well, it was nervy in the end, Bertrand could have given away a Penalty and we gave them some free kicks from very good positions. In the end it was a much needed win, but no reason to get carried away now - as it was a narrow win against the last-placed Team.

It does make a big difference which People MP puts out there. So hopefully he will make less mistakes now - and hopefully he learned that he might read here in the Forum the next time he is clueless again...
1


EDLiner added 23:20 - Feb 3

Great win and a great game to watch. What worries me is you just have to lump it in the corridor of uncertainty and we will ship goals. Stephens made up for his error though. Worth remembering that West Brom are terrible. So we have beaten West Brom twice, Everton when they were terrible, Palace when they were terrible and West Ham when they were having a poor start. Hopefully there are 3 teams worse than us.
2


10i added 00:30 - Feb 4

Finally MP got a starting lineup right - and look what a difference that makes. I also agreed with the Subs, I maybe would have brought Hojbjerg 6-7 minutes earlier...

Lemina was his usual self, played incredibly dominant and assured. Like he did before he was injured and benched for a reason only MP knows. Lemina for sure again proved the manager how wrong it is to not Play him.

Though Stephen's Goal was a great Header, our CD obvously still is the main concern. We were crying out loud for a new one, but somehow we weren't even linked with anybody. It's a bit frustrating that it seems the board and/or the Manager don't seem to see this.

A good win with some good Goals, but well, it was nervy in the end, Bertrand could have given away a Penalty and we gave them some free kicks from very good positions. In the end it was a much needed win, but no reason to get carried away now - as it was a narrow win against the last-placed Team.

It does make a big difference which People MP puts out there. So hopefully he will make less mistakes now - and hopefully he learned that he might read here in the Forum the next time he is clueless again...
2


underweststand added 08:57 - Feb 4

A very disappointing start, but Saints hel don and moved up a gear after the first 20 minutes.
All the goals were excellent in their own way. Lemina looked like a class act(at last). Jack Stephens must be the cheapest CB we've ever bought, and his two loan seasons away really have benefited him greatly.
Prowsie doing what he does best , and can it be he's actually found a role in the team - at last?
An excellent performance - and at the right time.

Can't say that West Brom. were a bad side, they looked good at times but (as we know ourselves) when things aren't going well - everything seems to be against you.
0


BlackAngel added 09:19 - Feb 4

Very pleased with the result, despite the tense end to the game. I thought we bossed it and the Lemina dominated the game with his energy and determination. It looked like the team played for each other and it seemed that they were determined to score - rather than the normal 'passing the ball around the box' with nobody taking the responsibility to shoot. The away support was great! Well done all, and let's take the positives into the L'Pool game. COYS!!!
0


petedoors1 added 18:37 - Feb 11

NEED TO SACK THE MANAGER NOW IF WE ARE GOING TO HAVE ANY CHANCE OF STAYING UP.
7


pete_boggs added 18:42 - Feb 11

We are always going to be at disadvantage starting with 10 men.
5


codge added 18:53 - Feb 11

To many players not playing to there potential,Hojbjerg, Romeu, Soares had a bad day today to many passes going astray. JWP had another decent game but the middle again at fault for both goals, lemina had a good game hope he is okay.We back of to many times in games it could of been a lot worse,hopefully we get back on track soon or we will be in the cr"p.
-5


pete_boggs added 18:56 - Feb 11

Somebody's been watching the wrong game. Prowsey had two forward passes.
6


aceofthebase added 19:15 - Feb 11

A fine first half with players playing well for the manager and unfortunate to be two good goals down. A good team selected to start, shame about Lemina illness, Romeu did lots of running and JWP very much OK.
This was an exceptionally good Liverpool side and we did well to not only hold them but to outplay them in the first half. Tiredness was our downfall in the second half and it was even more of a struggle to prevent them scoring but we did.
Against most teams, we would have won. Have faith in Saints

The biggest disappointment was the thousands of empty seats at the end of the match. I just wish real supporters could have their seats
-13


Boxingman75 added 19:17 - Feb 11

THIS IS RIDICULOUS NOW , PELLEGRINO HAS NO IDEA WHATSOEVER , THE GAME AND HIS LACK OF LEADERSHIP WAS BAD ENOUGH BUT HE HAS JUST BEEN ON THE RADIO AND SLATED THE PLAYERS AND HIS WHOLE DEMEANOR IS WORRYING , CHRIS SUTTON EVEN SAID HE SOUNDS LIKE THE MOST UNINSPIRING PERSON IVE EVER HEARD , HE HAS TO GO NOW , SHOULD HAVE GONE AGES AGO , WHAT TJE HELL
9


saintmark1976 added 19:29 - Feb 11

If you put 3.0 million pounds on a bet at odds of 80/1 and the bet wins by how much do you profit? Answer-240 million pounds. Wow, amongst other things that's enough to buy a football club.
4


larry12 added 19:37 - Feb 11

Prowse pointless.
Romeu get rid.
Cedric kept them onside for both goals..........clueless.
If you think Stephens or Hoedt should keep Yoshida on the bench, you are a clueless w*nker.
Tadic done good and Lemina showed a bit of class,
-1


larry12 added 19:39 - Feb 11

I think that aceofbase bloke must have watched a different game
6


CommonSaint added 20:11 - Feb 11

Manager showed no clue substitutions were like for like, we where 2 down why the hell like for like. we used 14 good players out there today pity they are not one TEAM. As for clipity Kloop well if the substitutions did not give the one finger salute to Southampton football club Then I do not know putting on Lovren when they were 2 up and dominating the play and there was only 5 minutes to go. a disgrace and disrespectful to Southampton Football club. as for Pelligrino well time for him to go the way we play under him is relegation material, we need someone (anyone) to shake things up we can not keep playing the square ball then start going backward, Passing well in the second half we must have passed the ball to Liverpool 90% of the time.
9


forallthesaints added 21:23 - Feb 11

Well, that was a firm blow to the gonads. Apart from a dreadful mistake by Hoedt for the first goal, we played quite well for 40 minutes and when going forward with pace, Saints did cause problems for Liverpool. A couple of decent chances were saved well by the keeper but the best fell to JWP who headed it straight to Karius with no power at all.
What happened in the second half is anyone's guess. Unlike some fans overheard on the way out, I am certain that the manager did not instruct them to limit the damage and keep it to 2-0. You only had to hear his interview afterwards to tell he was a tad disappointed with the second half display. And rightly so, it was awful. No pace, no urgency, no ideas. When Liverpool go forward, almost all of them go forward so can be susceptible to a quick break. But each time we won the ball and moved it up the field, the forwards had to wait for someone to come up in support. On one collapse of a Liverpool attack, I counted 6 Saints players walking out of defence. No wonder Tadic or JWP couldn't go further forward with Carrillo surrounded by Matip and VVD. It was lacklustre and there was a warning sign after the second goal when the Saints players' body language was that of abject defeat. It looked as though they gave up there and then and decided they didn't want to get thrashed. So it really didn't matter what the manager said at half time. Countless half-arsed passes went straight to Liverpool players or straight out of play. No one had a good second half or even looked that bothered and, while he may not be up to much, you can't blame the manager for that. One other niggle was that Firmino could and should have booked for three outrageous dives and a nasty tackle from behind in the first 20 minutes but the ref didn't even talk to him. He seems to have taken up Sturridge's diving mantle.
But, despite the poor performance in the second half, we were well and truly beaten by a much better side and it could have been four or five if they'd taken their chances in the second half (it was mildly amusing to see Lallana miss a sitter near the end).
8


landerwal added 22:45 - Feb 11

Lemina going off was a turning point. He put in a great first half performance breaking up Liverpool attacks and bringing the ball FORWARDS and still keeping it after 2/3 tackles. Luckily it seems the reason for him coming off were for continual vomiting not physical injury. After watching the rest of the match I had similar symptoms to his.
10


Royboy48 added 23:56 - Feb 11

Substitutions transformed the game

Wolves front three Dazzled in the first half; Onuoha and especially Perch embarrassed - appealing for offsides instead of defending; preceded both goals



0


SanMarco added 00:47 - Feb 12

Thoroughly disappointing match. Not sure that you can blame the manager though. He picked just about the best team at his disposal; Hoedt's catastrophic error and JWP's lack of basic heading ability were not down to him. Liverpool beat Les Reed's side without even breaking sweat. That performance had relegation written all over it and it will be the complacency and incompetence of those right at the top that will have caused it. All this 'strong squad' claptrap is not reflected in the league table. Yes - the manager isn't great and he will of course be the main scapegoat but it goes deeper than that

I thought Klopp showed himself up for the childish prat that he is by putting Lovren on at the end. No need for such idiocy - we'd all gone home anyway so there wasn't even anyone left to provoke...
11


BoondockSaint added 01:26 - Feb 12

San Marco-

Liverpool is Les Reed's side.
10


dovif added 06:40 - Feb 12

I do not know how lemina going off was a turning point. Since we were already down 2-0 and nothing in the last year has suggested that we can come back from 2-0 down. The best you can say is that it ended all hope. If there was any to begin with
3


bigrob68 added 06:49 - Feb 12

losing by 2 goals and we put Davis on, pathetic
8


Rustyhelmet added 08:43 - Feb 12

Pete/Larry whichever one of your logins your using at the moment, your constant scathing reports of JWP are bordering on obsessive, yeah he didnt have the greatest of matches today, but nobody did, and to say Tadic did 'good' shows what a total clueless wa*ker you are, Tadic has been nothing but sh1t for 18 months.

The whole team lacked any sort of shape, any sort of drive and any sort of plan 'B'. Weak at the back, clueless through the middle and out wide and a forward that is an expensive but ineffective copy of our own academy players, led by a buffoon who is clearly out of his depth. Reed OUT, Pellegrino OUT.
-2


pete_boggs added 18:08 - Feb 12

Rusty, just ask Nick if I'm using a VPN or if I'm a multi, no problem. I don't know why you're saying that anyway as I'm not trolling other peoples threads as the multitude of multi's on here do.

Anyway I'm not bordering on being obsessed with Prowsey, I AM obsessed with why we play the worst footballer in the Prem week after week. I sat with a pencil yesterday and did Prowsey's stats because it was more fun than watching Saints and it was pretty poor reading and confirmed everything I say about the useless waste of space.

Forward passes 2
Sideways passes 6
Back passes 11

Crosses/dead-balls 5
Assists 0
Goals 0
Tackles 0
Lame headers 2
3


SaintBrock added 18:14 - Feb 12

Bloody cold up there yesterday...

Football? What bloody football?
4


KriSaint added 12:52 - Feb 16

Unlucky one-player error for the first goal.
Stupid defending for the second.
Hojbjerg should have equalised.
Tadic needs to be played in the hole behind Carrillo.
Boufal shines way too rarely. Maybe because we play too slowly?
Ward-P is not good at heading, but how many midfielders below 1,73 meters are? He works hard, has a good right foot, has had a good run prior to the Liverfool game and for me he is a starter every game.
I agree that Klopp is a respectless, perverted clown, who got a hard-on from putting Lovren on.
0


SaintBrock added 17:20 - Feb 17

We have learned nothing since our last visit there. Same drab display, same old lapses, same old square and back passes and same old empty tanks after 45 minutes. I worry we have very poor players by this league's standards

There is no prospect of us staying up if we cannot beat comfortably the poorest side in the league
6


aceofthebase added 17:26 - Feb 17

What is it about the second half? I cannot believe MP tells his player to sit back and defend but that is what happens every game. Our players just seem to accept the inevitability of the opposition controlling the second half.

However another good win, and that is what matters. I will leave Nick to analyse Hoedts performance, good goal, nearly gave away a goal.

I fancy Rochdale next after they knock out Spurs.

0


pete_boggs added 17:29 - Feb 17

Well we won despite the subs. Perhaps we would have won by half time is he had played Sims from the start.
6


SaintBrock added 18:38 - Feb 17

We have learned nothing since our last visit there. Same drab display, same old lapses, same old square and back passes and same old empty tanks after 45 minutes. I worry we have very poor players by this league's standards

There is no prospect of us staying up if we cannot beat comfortably the poorest side in the league
1


aceofthebase added 20:11 - Feb 17

Oh no! Wigan or Man city away.. Come on Wigan!
2


larry12 added 00:47 - Feb 18

Redmond starts in front of Sims?
1


larry12 added 00:50 - Feb 18

Prowse another nothing show. What a dead beat that pathetic rubbish nothing thing he is.
Not one positive thing when in defense.
-1


rjh added 09:52 - Feb 18

Redmond - how many mis placed passes? He has no confidence and each time he has to make the killer pass he bottles it. So frustrating - needs a season in the championship ( might just get one with us).
2


AirFlorida added 10:37 - Feb 18

MP is turning into a tactical genius! He's worked out every which way to defeat West Brom! Unfortunately I don't think we have enough years left in the Prem for him to suss out the other 18 teams.
1


Harbour added 14:33 - Feb 18

Should have been three up by HT. Smithies several very good saves second half better Smyth and Eze very good performance by both anyone see the header Smyth won against the big defender amazing. Smyth and Smith seem to have a good understanding very good cross for the second goal.Bolton very ordinary can see why they are in trouble. Crowd seem to wake up after the sending off which looked harsh from the upper loft but seeing it back on tv can see why given. The ref was terrible lost count of the shirt pulls on Smith and inconsistent decisions.
0


Yorkshire_Dale added 16:35 - Feb 19

Convinced that the penalty was correct at first sight........now, having looked a bit closer not so sure!

Dele you're a cute one lad!
0


pete_boggs added 17:37 - Feb 24

We improved when we went from 10 to 11 men when Reed allowed Prowsey to come off. And luckily won the match when we went from 11 to 12 men (referee).
6


darthvader added 17:52 - Feb 24

Are you moaning that we had a bit of luck or fortune for a change ? I didn't see alot wrong with our goal , I haven't seen theirs but I hear it may have been handball again
3


pete_boggs added 18:02 - Feb 24

There was nothing wrong with our goal but we wouldn't have had a break on without the ref's help.
1


EDLiner added 21:03 - Feb 24

As much as I can't stand Redmond his 4.5 was harsh. Sure he was no Josh Sims but he did some decent things today. That said it is time that Josh Sims was a regular starter. But for an amazing save the lad would have scored a screamer. They say our academy is not as good as it was. Well Sims, Targett, Hesketh, Seager could all be banging on the door. As for the match as a whole? Well same stuff different day. Wasn't until Romeu (Too defensive) and Tadic left the field did we look much better. I have to say a midfield 2 of Lemina and Hjobjerg is much better for us than Romeu. He is hard as nails but a yellow card waiting to happen and offers very little going forward. Same isolation of the striker. Finally we play 2 up front as a panic and it pays dividends. Tactically Pellegrino is a dinosaur. If it doesn't work... keep doing the same thing... when not winning he finally does something. Why not start the game with those tactics?
11


JimmyMeliaPhD added 22:07 - Feb 24

I haven't been able to watch our last few games, but watching this one I get to understand some of the frustrated comments on this site!! Astonishing how both sides seem to show so little drive and urgency...perhaps because their unadventurous styles mirror each other? Or else, it's just that neither side, especially Saints, has a bona fide leader on the pitch. At any rate, it looked as if both teams were sleepwalking or just hanging around waiting for something to happen. Unacceptable lack of energy from Saints in the position their in.
Beyond that, let's state the obvious.....This is how it's supposed to work: an accurate cross from a speedy young AM, header down by CF, swivel and score from #10. The reason we've not seen it this whole season is, obviously, MP has no attacking ideas at all. He's bankrupt.
One other comments.
Our 2 central defenders were woeful today. Both of them seem unable to grasp the principle that, if you don't attack crosses, the opposition will! They also were positionally inept all afternoon, and their passing was way worse than usual. They really both seemed as if they were practising for the Championship.
6


KriSaint added 23:43 - Feb 24

Scrappy game.
Very nice to see Gabbiadini come in and score a "no. 10 goal". Another assist from Carrillo. Another impressive subst. performance from Sims. Good point for us. Bring on Stoke.
10


SaintPaulVW added 05:14 - Feb 25

A scrappy dull game. Redmond did very well. Simms and Gabbi should be in the team from the start though.

Still look disjointed in attack, bloody passbacks when attacking wind me up, but at least Mopo got the subs right.
7


petedoors1 added 09:12 - Feb 25

Need to drop Prowse for the rest of the season. We didn't start to play until Sims came on. I would like to see Sims, Gabbiadini and Carrillo start against Stoke.
9


larry12 added 10:31 - Feb 25

Hoedt, Prowse and Romeu are utter slow snail-like dross. Borefest of a game, Carillo worked his socks off. Sims should keep Prowse on the bench for the rest of the season. Cedric is now shiiite and Pied should replace him.
3


KriSaint added 14:31 - Feb 25

Seeking for more goals: recommandation to MoPo for this week´s training adjustments:

Carrillo as our big target striker, Gabbi right behind him as supporting striker. Tadic out to rest.

Sims our right winger. Ward-P as right back (we need his crosses and free-kicks). Cedric, who has scored no goals and had no assists, out to rest.
4


Harbour added 17:10 - Feb 25

Well that was bad we seemed to lose the midfield battle and Tomlin bossed it not the first time v us first three goals defendable but they seemed to have more energy guile and were so much better than us all over the pitch. Every time freeman got the ball they had 3 men on him there pressing game we could not cope with. Let’s hope this performance was a one off or we will get dragged into a relegation dogfight...games v AV and Derby up next need a more disciplined performance in these 2 games.
0


InsideOut added 19:48 - Feb 25

Agree with all your points KriSaint. I thought JWP did alright recently at right back and we do need his dead ball skills. I'd rest Hoedt and bring back Yoshida for Stoke and hope he provides a bit of leadership.
2


DockersRottingCorpse added 21:34 - Feb 25

Romeu was man of the match
-2


JimmyMeliaPhD added 18:59 - Mar 3

My low ratings reflect my conviction that, if you can't score against and beat Stoke at home when you're desperate for points, then nobody can have played well enough to have earned a high rating. I seem to be giving my highest scores to two players who haven't been in the team most of the season..McCarthy and Sims. And even though I normally oppose Redmond being on the field at all, he was a threat for most of the game. So, lots and lots of crosses and corners into the box, but nobody there, or at least nobody who knows how to put the ball in the net. It's been our problem all year, and even the addition of a new 19 million striker hasn't helped much. Yet the only time we looked like scoring was when both Carrillo and Gabbi were in the box, and then genius manager got cold feet--those two were on the field together for exactly 15 minutes! And then the totally pointless introduction of Long. WTF?
7


SaintBrock added 19:09 - Mar 3

The blame for tis never ending farce should be placed squarely on Fraser Forster
3


petedoors1 added 19:14 - Mar 3

I take in now we will have a new MANAGER BY TUESDAY!!!!!!!!!!
6


DPeps added 19:38 - Mar 3

Déjà vu anyone?
I can't figure out if Pell is an egomaniac, stubborn, or just very limited. We're the dream opposition for other teams because it's so predictable how we'll set up and what we'll do during the game.
I said back in November that we'll only stay up if there are 3 teams worse. I'm rapidly losing the faith that there are 3 teams worse.
8


vanmans added 19:40 - Mar 3

MUST BE SACKED NOW
7


codge added 19:55 - Mar 3

It's getting to the point that you do not have to put in a report because it's the same old rubbish every time, so no need to say anything else until next season hopefully will still be in the Premier League.
8


DPeps added 20:00 - Mar 3

Déjà vu anyone?
I can't figure out if Pell is an egomaniac, stubborn, or just very limited. We're the dream opposition for other teams because it's so predictable how we'll set up and what we'll do during the game.
I said back in November that we'll only stay up if there are 3 teams worse. I'm rapidly losing the faith that there are 3 teams worse.
2


Ali_Diarea added 20:01 - Mar 3

In the 04/05 season when we were relegated we won 6, drew 14 and lost 18. In the end we only needed two more points to stay up at the expense of West Brom, i.e. convert one of those 14 draws into a win.

It really feels like we’re going the same way again this season. No winners in that team nor on the bench, our only hope seems to be if Charlie Austin returns to match fitness, how did it ever get to this?!
6


cockneyswan added 20:24 - Mar 3

Swans were superb from the off, obviously wanted it more, once wh lost Ried they looked a busted flush and a team who looked sorry for themselves, very ominous for WH they looked like relegation candidates. Fair play to the Swans they kept up the pressure on wh until the game was won at 4:0 , small critism the sloppy defending for the wh goal I wanted a clean sheet but that aside a great team performance today. On this evidence we will be safe and perhaps a chance of the FA cup would be great. Thanks to every member of the Swans team today including Carlos and his team 👏👏👏
0


KriSaint added 20:46 - Mar 3

Lost for words with disappointment.
4


KriSaint added 20:50 - Mar 3

Lost for words with disappointment.
0


SanMarco added 21:53 - Mar 3

A game that summed up our decline over the last 18 mths - 2 years. It was only missing a goal conceded to an unmarked header.

The narrative of blaming MP grows stronger every day and, yes, his tactics are too cautious but I think the failure to strengthen weaknesses that have been obvious to all of us for a long, long time is equally, if not more, to blame. I wasn't watching a strong squad let down by an inadequate manager today. I was, rather, watching an average squad who can't move forward quickly and can't score and also look vulnerable at the back - that's not MP's fault. He wasn't even here when this decline started. We could well go down now - and if we do responsibility will lie fair and square with those who allowed the squad to deteriorate...
11


DPeps added 08:28 - Mar 4

San Marco is right, of course. Pell is a symptom of a much wider problem
4


AirFlorida added 08:52 - Mar 4

IN MY LIFE OF SUPPORTING SAINTS I HAVE NEVER KNOWN OUR PLAY/TACTICS TO BE SO PREDICTABLE- and crap. "We should have started the first half like the 2nd half" he says. Well that's signs of progress, we'll make a manager out of him yet!! Guy couldn't hail a cab.
1


EDLiner added 10:36 - Mar 4

I can't disagree with Saint Marco more. We were playing Stoke City! So we prepared by sending out a negative 4-2-3-1 formation. Sure he went for pace but only Sims listened in training. Tadic was drifting about and Redmond had no idea whether to stick or twist. We went into the match thinking "Must not lose" rather than "We must win this". If ever 2 up front was a requirement it was against a leaky Stoke Defence. After 60 mins he finally decides to change it and go aggressive. Gabbi was a breath of fresh air and we dominated. But for a boufal header (if you can call it that) and Butland doing what he does best we could have won it. BUT! 30 mins is not enough to terrify an opponent. If you can't give your team belief for 90 mins or set out to win then week after week the confidence drains. MP is a tactical dinosaur. The sooner he goes the better. Our black box is broken.
-2


forallthesaints added 12:10 - Mar 4

A sense of inevitability and resignation has set in in my little spot at SMS. Not that we will definitely go down, I refuse to accept that until the last game of the season or when it becomes mathematically impossible to escape. I am just resigned to the fact that however many chances are created, our players won't take them. First half was pretty poor on both sides, we won lots of corners but did nothing with them, a trend that continued throughout the second half. In the second half we were much better and there were some good passes being made forward to the wings but Stoke crowded the box and we never really got any clear-cut chances apart from Boufal's header. I kind of forgive him as it was his first touch and heading is not really his forte. Gabbiadini was hugely disappointing when he came on, especially as for the whole season people have been complaining that he makes intelligent runs but never gets given the ball when he does so. Yesterday the ball was through to him a couple of times and he did nothing with it and topped it all with an air-shot in front of goal. I don't think we can really blame the manager for Cedric's inability to hit a barn, let alone its door from outside the box. The one time he did get a decent shot on target, Butland did well (although it was a regulation save made spectacular). A couple of positives: Sims up front with Carrillo was pacey and dangerous but he should have done better early in the second half when he broke free and shot straight at Butland. And Redmond looked dangerous too and scared the daylights out of the fullbacks. He seems to have regained a bit of belief in his ability to take the ball forward rather than constantly cut inside and pass backwards - I thought he was our man of the match, especially in the second half. Romeu was poor, constantly giving the ball away - perhaps a swap with Hojberg for the next game. Lemina shows unbelievable skill but can do a bit of a Boufal and try to do too much on occasion. The defence was pretty solid and even though Crouch was probably Stoke's most effective outfield player, he was largely snuffed out despite winning everything in the air. Strange and very irritating decision by the ref to award a free kick at the death and not let it be taken, especially as the added time had been largely taken up with the ball out of play. I bet he would have let one of the big six take it (I suspect Eddie Howe might have mixed feelings about it after what happened to Bournemouth yesterday).
2


DPeps added 17:07 - Mar 10

I wonder how the fans will be blamed for this one? Failing to master the art of telekinesis?

I suspect this is the death knell for Pell. Too late though
13


Boxingman75 added 17:10 - Mar 10

Sack the clown now , 3 weeks till next league game , get someone in to at least try to keep us up or at least show us fans they do care
14


Phil_looks_sharp added 17:10 - Mar 10

I feel like meeting the Team Coach.
Unacceptable onnEVERY level
Woeful doesn’t begin to describe it
We need a rocket up our backsides
What motivational tactics did Pellegrino employ exactly?
Pellegonow
11


Phil_looks_sharp added 17:11 - Mar 10

I feel like meeting the Team Coach.
Unacceptable onnEVERY level
Woeful doesn’t begin to describe it
We need a rocket up our backsides
What motivational tactics did Pellegrino employ exactly?
Pellegonow
0


KriSaint added 17:27 - Mar 10

Frightingly poor performance by Saints today. I feel sorry for the fans who went to the game.
The last thing we needed. Pellegrino cannot inspire the team remotely enough. Tactical flexibility non existing. I can´t recall Saints having a meaningful finish at goal.
Something has to change. NOW.
12


the_saint added 17:36 - Mar 10

Sack him now two weeks to next league game, get anybody in a change gives you a extra boost which may just save us keep this clown and we are gone
9


10i added 17:37 - Mar 10

At least there were two situations that made me smile. First when I read the Teamsheet with Gabbi, our only goalscorer left, and Sims benched.
MP started four attacking Players who combined(!!!!!!) to score 6 Goals in 66 starts (83 appearances) in the PL this season. That's 1 Goal for every 11 starts. Or 1 in 14 appearances. Gabbi on the other Hand managed 1 in 2,5 starts and 1 in 6 appearences, as he had mostly cameos. You would have thought a Manager paid millions could work out that this could make a difference.
MP didn't Play Austin for months at the beginning of the season, even when he was not injured, cause "our" manager doesn't know a fcking thing about what is needed to score a Goal. He was forced and Austin saved his Job. But well, in these circumstances, he is not able to learn, as we see week in, week out...

So MP made me smile for a second time. He makes a double Substitution, desperately chasing the game and manages to again leave him out and bring on Long. Well, of course Long could have scored his one Goal for 2018 today. But MP got unlucky there...
14


the_saint added 17:38 - Mar 10

Sorry 3 weeks
2


aceofthebase added 17:41 - Mar 10

Today the clowns were on the pitch. What a bunch of no-hopers. How the manager can be blamed for this heartless display is beyond me.

It started with the first goal and that clown Cedric attempting to head the ball or rather just get in the way. What a useless waste of space. Similar comments for most other (clowns) players.

MP didn't select a bad side and all commentaries I heard suggested his subs were made early and with good intention. With the clowns we have in our squad surely MP can't be blamed for this disappointing loss.
-11


KriSaint added 17:48 - Mar 10

Frightingly poor performance by Saints today. I feel sorry for the fans who went to the game.
The last thing we needed. Pellegrino cannot inspire the team remotely enough. Tactical flexibility non existing. I can´t recall Saints having a meaningful finish at goal.
Something has to change. NOW.
1


codge added 17:51 - Mar 10

No need to say anything but this was worse than Shine and no spirit left in our team, why was Sims not starting. Surely this has to be the end of MP, never has a manager missed the obvious changes needed to be made through sheer stubbornness than this guy.Se no escape now but will remain hopefully but that is fading fast.
8


petedoors1 added 18:10 - Mar 10

SACK THE BOARD AND THE CLOWN OR WE WILL BE DOOMED
10


KriSaint added 18:15 - Mar 10

Frightingly poor performance by Saints today. I feel sorry for the fans who went to the game.
The last thing we needed. Pellegrino cannot inspire the team remotely enough. Tactical flexibility non existing. I can´t recall Saints having a meaningful finish at goal.
Something has to change. NOW.
0


larry12 added 18:25 - Mar 10

Well what do you know. Coward manager has Ploddy wp on for 90 mins and no goals scored. Plus some shhiiiitte corners.
5


mikesaint added 18:51 - Mar 10

What has happened to my team in the last two years gone from near the top to the Bottom. Les Read must take all the blame for this and must GO.
10


SaintBrock added 18:52 - Mar 10

We neither watched nor listened today such is the level of apathy in this household. Unsurprisingly the result has not surprised me. I feel totally detached from what is going on at SFC.

The inevitably of relegation raises no emotion whatsoever. That is how the death of a thousand cuts works, you give up all hope of a different outcome after the 750th.
5


mikesaint added 18:53 - Mar 10

What has happened to my team in the last two years gone from near the top to the Bottom. Les Read must take all the blame for this and must GO.
4


helpineedsomebody added 19:15 - Mar 10

for me now our only hope is get MR LESLIE REED ON THE TOUCHLINE TO MANAGE THE TEAM & THAT WORLD CLASS COACH TO HELP HIM MR KELVIN DAVIES
PROBLEM SOLVED
-3


smegma added 19:32 - Mar 10

Could someone at the club stop Scowen from taking any further free kicks this season. They're embarrassing.
0


SanMarco added 21:50 - Mar 10

Shocking performance. In the big debate a few days ago I was saying that it was too late to sack the manager. Today was so dreadful that it has changed my mind. Of course he is not the only one to blame but it is clear now that we are definitely down if he stays so there really is nothing further to lose. You can't do nothing after a performance that bad and what is there but to sack him? Whoever came in couldn't be any worse. They would also have some time to get their feet under the desk before the trip to those equally happy bunnies at Wet Spam...
5


SaintPaulVW added 21:58 - Mar 10

The horror, the horror, the horror
3


Geoff78 added 17:05 - Mar 11

Awful first half and only improved by the sending off, which at least added a little edge to the game. Although Rs deserved to win this was a poor performance, struggling to hold on in the last 10 minutes against the bottom team reduced to 10 men. Not impressive. Holloway's comments about the Sunderland formation confusing the players doesn't inspire much confidence. The bottom team in the league with an appalling recent record, down to 10 men should have been beaten convincingly, whatever formation they played and the team should have adapted.

But a very encouraging performance from Eze - some lovely touches, but would be good if he didn't look quite so languid.
0


Flashberryjack added 17:58 - Mar 17

Men and Boys
0


Gowerjack added 22:44 - Mar 17

A paper thin squad cruelly exposed.
0


Royboy48 added 08:08 - Mar 18

Something almost more important than the match itself happened today: it felt like Unity had been restored between fans, players, manager and the club itself
1


janecook added 15:45 - Mar 18

That's better Saints
6


WestSussexSaint added 15:58 - Mar 18

A bit slow to get going as they got used to the way Hughes wanted them to play but the second half was much more dominant. Let's not get too carried away as this was a L1 side (albeit a good one) but there seems to be more positivity in the side which they can carry forward to the West Ham game.
8


helpineedsomebody added 16:04 - Mar 18

typical english cup tie
all the EUROPEAN PLAYERS WENT THERE AS POODLES NOW THEY ARE
MEN
nice to win a very hard game well done saints & mark hughes for pushing cedric on the left side of midefield
1


Bettwsresident added 16:04 - Mar 18

Get in!! Was worried in the first half, we showed touches of class but gave the ball away too easily and Wigan were all over us. They should have scored. Second half, so much better, moved the ball quickly and forward and deserved the win.

Carillo had a shocker. and looks a serious waste of money..and how unlucky was Manolo! I fancy him to get a hat-trick against West Ham, it is due! Long played well when he came on. PEH and Lemina looked so classy at times and then gave the ball away stupidly at others. Also I thought Boufal had a good game going forward.
8


DPeps added 16:12 - Mar 18

First half was always going to be tough. Second half was much better.
It's promising that Hughes picked a system that suits the better players we have - who'd have thunk it eh?!
My only worry is Carillo. I'm unclear what he offers.

Lastly, why wasn't their defender sent off for the penalty? Last man. Have I missed a rule change?
7


pete_boggs added 16:28 - Mar 18

Relief to see a win by more than one at last.
4


Boris1977 added 16:29 - Mar 18

I think there has been a change in the laws in that a penalty is deemed punishment enough. Respect to the dedicated supporters that got behind the team for the whole match, particularly supporting Gabbi after the penalty save. The first half saints lack of confidence was so clear but second half was a vast improvement. Feeling dizzy with victory. The sooner Austin is fit the better as Gabbi will have a footballer up front to play with. Sparky has made a difference already and this should lift the club. Course, together as one.
4


Boris1977 added 16:35 - Mar 18

I think there has been a change in the laws in that a penalty is deemed punishment enough. Respect to the dedicated supporters that got behind the team for the whole match, particularly supporting Gabbi after the penalty save. The first half saints lack of confidence was so clear but second half was a vast improvement. Feeling dizzy with victory. The sooner Austin is fit the better as Gabbi will have a footballer up front to play with. Sparky has made a difference already and this should lift the club. Course, together as one.
0


DPeps added 16:53 - Mar 18

Boris - ah yes, thanks. I remember now
-1


PezzaSaint added 16:54 - Mar 18

Was it Fergie who use to give his players the hair dryer treatment? Wonder if Sparky stole that hair dryer whilst he was at Utd? Marked change in attitude of a few in the second half, Lemina and Cedric to name but two!!!! Did they get the Hughesie treatment? Cedric' hair was certainly well coiffured!!!!
4


AirFlorida added 16:57 - Mar 18

Wow! A manager that knows how to manage a game! Half time talk changed things and the substitutions made sense and worked! Redmond's deflected cross as an assist and Long with some good game management. Lemina was sloppy and trying too hard to impress but I take that as a positive of the new manager's arrival. Players will note that Hughes knows how to 'in game' manage and play for him.. Unlike with MP.
6


larry12 added 17:27 - Mar 18

Nice to see Ploddy unused. Well done Sparky!!!!
6


allsaint54 added 18:23 - Mar 18

Great to see an improvement from a half time talk, even Tadic was better.
Have to agree Carrillo looks a total waste of money at 19m, could have got a much better striker from championship for a fraction of the price. Notice that transfernet only value him at 5m.
4


BoondockSaint added 19:44 - Mar 18

Two up front? Gabbiadini starting? Team winning by more than one goal? A win, not a draw? Manager actually engaged in the game, shouting directions, making tactical changes, talking to, and encouraging his players on the field after the game? Was I watching the Saints? Or is this some kind of alternate universe, you know, where Mr. Spock has a beard??

Whatever it is, lets have more of it!
5


underweststand added 20:51 - Mar 18

Great win and good semi final draw v.Chelsea

I don't want United... until the Final ....and get revenge.
3


SaintBrock added 21:23 - Mar 18

More relief than satisfaction at a win but the midfield need to get a grip as Wigan dominated the central third for large parts of the game and they only a League 1 side.

Are we saying that we cannot play 3 midfielders together now, we missed Romeu's marauding gatekeeper role to break up attacks stemming from their midfield?

We're not out of the woods yet by any means.
3


KriSaint added 23:35 - Mar 18

OK Saints. Job done.
1


smiffdub added 00:26 - Mar 19

Not a performance that'll beat many PL teams. Awful really and the same problem areas....1). Central defence again woeful against lower league opposition. 2) Front 4....totally hopeless. Beginning to see that Boufal just hasn't got what it takes, and both Gabbi and Carrillo need to gibe some pudding proof if they're going to be regualar starters.
-3


KRAZYB added 08:52 - Mar 19

Wigan ran 1st half mostly but Saints overcame nerves and pressure to finally draw the sting from them. Clearly better side in 2nd half.
4


SanMarco added 09:22 - Mar 19

Ice cold and very blustery day and a poor pitch vs an on-form playing well lower division side and...we won. I thought the wind was a factor throughout and contributed to the 'game of two halfs' aspect. Like most I am not getting carried away but Hughes is better than MP and I believe that even if we go down we will feel that at least, very belatedly, we made a fight of it.

I think he will stick with those 2 CBs now but the big question is Carrillo. Give Gaby a run in the side and he will score a few but Carrillo looks poor. I think we still need Austin back - quickly.
3


Whiteknight added 09:56 - Mar 19

One swallow doesn't make a summer but it was great to see less passing backwards, players really trying and a successful half time team talk! Thought the substitutions were good - they made sense in the context of the game. Feel for Gabbi - I thought he was offside and I think he did as well, but a great save from the goalie and a top class save for the penalty, which wasn't bad.

Favourite moment - Wigan fans hitting one of their own with a flare and then fighting amongst themselves. That and the rubbish swirling around the pitch showed the class of the opposition.
2


redwight added 10:35 - Mar 19

Didn't make it 'til 1.55 so missed most of what was obviously a dire first half. How good to have a manager who picks the team we want, playing the way we want and, being English speaking, can actually communicate. 'Gonna keep us up, win the FA Cup!
2


enfieldargh added 23:46 - Mar 30

First time I've ever found our performance entertaining even if we suffered a defeat.

If their keeper dived the other way.......
0


bigrob68 added 17:08 - Mar 31

Gutless performance by league one players, cheers Les
11


pete_boggs added 17:09 - Mar 31

Les, kick the stool.
14


larry12 added 17:22 - Mar 31

Lemina loses possession yet again 1-0
Hojberg kicks ball round player, attempt what Sims CAN do and fails 2 -0.
No midfield.
Shiiittte
14


codge added 17:27 - Mar 31

Awful display being a six point game,lemina gives ball away 1 nil Hojbjerg gives ball away 2 nil no cover on third 3nil.
Tadic pathetic along with Redmond and many others.We are definitely in the s--it if we can't up our game for this we are in big-time trouble. Honestly don't know where we go from here other than relegated.
19


CaymanSaint added 17:32 - Mar 31

I’ve been a supporter of Saints for over 50 years & I cannot remember a worse display by players wearing a Southampton shirt. Even in league one we played with pride, courage & determination. This was a truly abysmal display by players who obviously just do not give a s..t about what the Saints means to the supporters - those of us who truly care about our proud history & team.
An utterly appalling & gutless display by a bunch of overpaid prima donnas.
16


aceofthebase added 17:39 - Mar 31

Fans must face up to the fact that our players are not up to the required standard. Do we blame this manager for not motivating the team, not selecting the right team, poor substitutions? Surely every Saints fan can now see that whatever manager we have had the team is just not good enough.
Cedric again poor and the long diagonal ball catches him out again and again and then he sheepishly runs away. Not bad at aimlessly booting the ball upfield.
Bertrand seems depressed and lacks motivation and is a poor example to the rest of the team.
Hoedt has not been the good buy that Nick keeps telling us. He makes as many mistakes as Yoshi
Jack S not bad and should thrive next season wherever he plays.
Lemina is an enigma, one good game and three bad games.
Hojberg a great tryer but is he good enough?
Tadic had a good game three seasons ago.
Redmond is too full of himself and is excellent at running away from the goal
Charlie Austin would never get in the team with any decent earlier competition like RL or Pelle, Tho he does try to score.
Gabby is a class player in the wrong team and contributes little.
Long can chase all day, but what good does it do, ok sometimes it works but it doesn't justify a place in the team
Boufal I love to observe his skills but like Long that doesn't earn him a place.
Carrillo with a better midfield to provide support may be ok but at present is a waste of space.
Oh I forgot McCarthy. Without him our Goal difference would be horrendous

It does not matter a Hoot whether the manager speaks Double Dutch or Welsh the players are simply not good enough and why is that? The investment in new quality players has been lamentable. The rot set in two seasons ago. Bad players, bad management
14


SaintGeorge added 18:06 - Mar 31

Why doesn't this player rating thing have zeroes and negatives? I want to give Bertrand and Tadic less than McCarthy but I'm not prepared to give McCarthy 2.
1


helpineedsomebody added 18:36 - Mar 31

we need CORTESE NOW
7


PezzaSaint added 18:57 - Mar 31

Ace sums it perfectly for me. We were second to everything. I'm sorry to say this, but I think we're a goner!!
4


simmo400 added 19:04 - Mar 31

Poor poor poor. All over for the season. Embarrassing semi final ahead will be a cricket score on this showing.
4


ronniedavies added 19:57 - Mar 31

Midfield was woeful, weak bunch of short arses that regularly get turned over by more physically stronger opposition. This has been the case for two seasons now and we continue to buy players who can’t cope in this league. Only physical presence we have is with Romeo but for some reason he can’t make it into the team? We will go down this season with this current crop as they are just not man enough for the challenge
11


Markl2057 added 20:00 - Mar 31

Gutless, passionless bunch of cowards!!!!!
Anybody else get behind your team can do one
5


SanMarco added 20:29 - Mar 31

Time to put the strong squad let down by poor management myth to bed. Not much to add to Ace's excellent summary. Complacency, arrogance and incompetence from the board have allowed a two year decline that's taken us from 6th place to relegation. The players aren't good enough and we deserve to be where we are. We all desperately tried to convince ourselves that a decent second half at a third division side was the turning point. It wasn't was it? Thanks Les. Every last supporter of our club, whatever their particular views or approaches, saw all the problems developing over months and months and YOU SOLVED NONE OF THEM. Have the decency to take responsibility and GET OUT...
12


allsaint54 added 01:06 - Apr 1

What an utter disgrace. Players couldn't care less. Half the team look as though they've already got new clubs for next season, we all know who they are. Don't play them, play players who are prepared to fight & give 100%. DT & NR have been a joke all season & most of last, yet they still play.
7


qnehl1 added 08:37 - Apr 1

In a relegation battle experience and character is needed.
Problem is, WE DONT HAVE ANY!!

They all got sold to make a small profit, i'm talking about players like Fonte and Lambert here?
Look back over the past two seasons, we have been awful since we let Fonte go, maybe he was the glue holding the team together.
5


warrens76 added 09:43 - Apr 1

Look stop whingeing, we all know that Cortese would have pur us 200 million plus in debt by now, we would have a bigger stadium, better players and passion and have never hired these second rate managers, Reed would only be in charge of recruitment not the brilliant DoF he is so over qualified for...

Don't you realise KL has made herself debt free is that not what we all wanted, the new owner has 210 million of debt and a div 1 team but Kat and Ralph kept their promises on self sustaining, we all thought they meant the club but that's our fault for not understanding Ralph's motivational corporate speak..

Things could be much much worse.....so we have been told, I just keep trying to find out how...
2


Stevo67 added 10:31 - Apr 1

This was an absolute embarrassment this Saints team are they are overpaid and overrated and seem to think its ok to rip the fans off with the rubbish they are giving us week in week out but this runs so much deeper Les Reed and Ralph Kruger should be ashamed of themselves for ripping our club apart and still taking their huge pay packets every month when the hard working fans have to use their hard earned wages to watch this rubbish its so sad to see this great club being destroyed by these criminals. We Need to act NOW
8


SaintBrock added 11:57 - Apr 1

The only power we have is to stay away but people won't and 3000 gullible heart-driven fans made the trek yesterday in the belief that they would see a miraculous new beginning. They keep hoping, they keep getting kicked in the gonads and yet they keep coming back for more.

Well lads you've got the change you've been pining for and indeed Les has take us to another level just as he promised.

STAY AWAY! That is the only way to hurt them and stuff this miserable bunch of no-hopers, they'll be gone before the dust has settled in May.

Face up to reality and stop believing in this miracle. It was never going to happen. We've been down for weeks in all but name.
9


simmo400 added 12:04 - Apr 1

Poor poor poor. All over for the season. Embarrassing semi final ahead will be a cricket score on this showing.
2


Stevo67 added 12:05 - Apr 1

This was an absolute embarrassment this Saints team are they are overpaid and overrated and seem to think its ok to rip the fans off with the rubbish they are giving us week in week out but this runs so much deeper Les Reed and Ralph Kruger should be ashamed of themselves for ripping our club apart and still taking their huge pay packets every month when the hard working fans have to use their hard earned wages to watch this rubbish its so sad to see this great club being destroyed by these criminals. We Need to act NOW
7


the_saint added 12:40 - Apr 1

The gutless performance reminded me of the Pompey game last time we were relegated we are in free fall again all the way back to Div 1. How Marko gets a free header and then reacts quicker to put the ball in just goes to show how crap our centre backs are bring back yoshi at least he shows heart these players should be playing for their semi final place if I was sparky I would give a few youngsters a chance and that includes the semi final, they will be the players who will be here next season. Yesterday told me we were down not on the result but with the performance the players gave
10


Stevo67 added 12:56 - Apr 1

This was an absolute embarrassment this Saints team are they are overpaid and overrated and seem to think its ok to rip the fans off with the rubbish they are giving us week in week out but this runs so much deeper Les Reed and Ralph Kruger should be ashamed of themselves for ripping our club apart and still taking their huge pay packets every month when the hard working fans have to use their hard earned wages to watch this rubbish its so sad to see this great club being destroyed by these criminals. We Need to act NOW
5


Stevo67 added 14:03 - Apr 1

This was an absolute embarrassment this Saints team are they are overpaid and overrated and seem to think its ok to rip the fans off with the rubbish they are giving us week in week out but this runs so much deeper Les Reed and Ralph Kruger should be ashamed of themselves for ripping our club apart and still taking their huge pay packets every month when the hard working fans have to use their hard earned wages to watch this rubbish its so sad to see this great club being destroyed by these criminals. We Need to act NOW
1


Stevo67 added 16:04 - Apr 1

This was an absolute embarrassment this Saints team are they are overpaid and overrated and seem to think its ok to rip the fans off with the rubbish they are giving us week in week out but this runs so much deeper Les Reed and Ralph Kruger should be ashamed of themselves for ripping our club apart and still taking their huge pay packets every month when the hard working fans have to use their hard earned wages to watch this rubbish its so sad to see this great club being destroyed by these criminals. We Need to act NOW
1


LeTissIwish added 01:28 - Apr 2

Blo.dy disgraceful
2


LeTissIwish added 01:30 - Apr 2

It's obvious most of the players want out.
2


smiffdub added 07:49 - Apr 2

Hughes has said he now needs to turn to players he can rely on. Who are they?
Goalie, ok, yes McCarthy, no question.
Full backs, Soares and Bertrand. Neither have covered themselves in glory recently. Cedric in particular was awful Saturday. Pied has performed well every time he's been given a chance, so I'd say Pied next time. And Bertrand, I suppose you stick with him, but would it do any harm to bring McQueen back?
Central defence. Basically Stephens and Hoedt are apprenticing for life in the championship. They're both rubbish right now and Hoedt in particualar (sorry Nick, but I never understood your enthusiasm for this bloke). Yoshida is all guts. If he's fit he has to replace one of these apprentices.
DM. Hojberg, Lemna and Romeu are what we've got, basically. Hojberg looks as if he gives a shit, so I'd keep him. Toss up between the other two.
AM. This is where we have too many players and not an ounce of real quality. Redmond, Boufal, Tadic, they are all basically incapable or unwilling to the do the job that's needed right now. Sims has to start before any of them, because he has skill, drive, and enthusiasm, and he's not predictable for other teams.
Midfield: JWP, and Davis. JWP is often worth including, but he's usually ineffectual. But compared to the AM choices, he is what we've got
Strikers. Austin at least was trying, so you keep him in. Long should never ever be thought of as a striker; he's a total waste of space at this level. Gabbiadini and Carillo are fish out of water at this point. No point in starting either of them , despite fan feeling for Gabbi. (Bring back Gallagher or try Obafemi again. )

So for me, next time out:

McCarthy
Pied, Bertrand, Yoshida, Stephens or Hoedt
Hojberg, Lemina or Romeu
Sims, JWP, Redmond/Tadic/Boufal
Austin
Subs: Forster, McQueen, Cedric, Stepens/Hoedt, Lemina/Romeu, Redmond/Tadic/Boufal, Gabbiadini

0


warrens76 added 11:21 - Apr 2

Sincerely for you Nick..why talk about players the problems lie way beyond them.
I have been the arch board opponent for 4 years, managers have taken flak, now the players failings are finally being exposed and taking flak, yet it is sleight of hand, the real villains are still here, the real responsibility lies with them.

Look fans no one is going to turn a one footed ultra lightweight negative Redmond into a superstar winger, scrub that a reasonable PL winger, no one can teach positioning and defending to defenders who make the same mistakes game after game, no one is going to turn Charlie into a bulletproof indestructable athlete, nor Gabbi into Van Persie, nor teach Soares to cross, or anyone to take corners bar JWP who brings other problems, no one is going to turn a group of ever changing players into a single harmonised growing up together team..

However, as horrible as that may all be it is like an iceberg what we do not see that is the real issue.

To give the new board and Kat a 'clean sheet' it was important to work the PR and spin the negative on Cortese, one such area was the Staplewood black hole, now the overspend was caused in the main by the relentless pursuit of latest methodologies and technology, even as Staplewood was expanded City and Utd, CFC had cottoned on, I said back in 2013 we could not expect our academy and recruitment 'edge' to not be replicated and improved on...Steve Jobs made an interesting observation the moment something is designed and working it is already redundant, closer to home SAF was always looking at the next goal not his current achievement.

The PL is a constantly evolving model, whatever you spent last year will not be enough, whatever technical, tactical, training advantages you have this year will be superceded the following year...

The PL is an investment 'plus' model, what Kat adopted was doomed the moment it was acted upon, in every aspect SFC who for an all too brief period were media darlings, became such because the club was ahead of the curve, when NC was handed his hat, the baby was effectively thrown out with the bathwater.

If you are in the business of evolution then those that fail to adapt die out and that is what we as supporters are up against.

What should have been was Staplewood 'still' ahead of its time, 3x the money into recruitment of the best youth and academy staffing in Europe (not jobs for mates), a 45.000 stadium, half the sales if that and certainly not to strengthen one club, the retention of MoPo and the project, SFC 'branded' as THE Southern powerhouse...

None of this is dreaming, nor unaffordable (certainly not 210 million) it WAS a basic requirement of keeping pace with change, in 3 years time 7/8 clubs will be circa 55-60k or more capacity, 5 clubs will have increased capacity by over 50%..what have we done?, the top 8 will have doubled commercial revenues in the next 3 years from already serious levels...our corporate is nothing, the stadium still a flatpack, after the fat lady sings what will we have accomplished in comparison to say BHA or Bmuff next year......

The players infuriate because they play for my club but they were chosen by others, the team ethos has been installed by others, the negativity and non ambitious vibe ditto and the appalling re-investment and forward thinking again is way above the players abilities to solve......if we cannot have evolution let us have revolution.
10


SaintBrock added 11:32 - Apr 2

It will be very hard to achieve any of those ambitions in the Championship, whoever might be running the club in future. One suspects that we are finally heading back to where we probably belong in terms of actual size and ambition, the second divison to give it it's proper name.
4


janecook added 11:43 - Apr 2

Well said warrens76 what you say is spot on. Our club has been ruined by the past Owner and the Boards Money grabbing and No investment into the FUTURE.
8


allsaint54 added 14:39 - Apr 2

On the plus side I won't have to suffer NR & DT next season as hopefully they'll be long gone.
0


DPeps added 15:48 - Apr 2

Has Nick gone into hiding?
6


straight_pass added 16:09 - Apr 2

Clearly the team were nervous and unsure about tactics from the whistle. We were soon overrun in the midfield and after the second goal it quickly became damage limitation.
I cannot ever remember many games when the team has looked so lost!!! What have we been doing at Staplewood?
6


SanMarco added 20:28 - Apr 2

DPeps - Nick needs to come up with some positives for the 'verdict' and that is taking time - lots of time...

warrens76 - I am sure you are right on the issue of Cortese unfairly being made the villain but I, honestly, do not understand the 'road not travelled' that you ouline. So, Cortese stays with lots of forward looking ideas and, keeping within fair play rules, and notwithstanding the desire of players and managers to earn more and win more NOW, we progress up the table and stay there. We, of course, will never know what would have happened if Cortese had stayed but MoPo not going to Spuds is quite frankly unbelievable. A bit like VVD with his injury NC's departure gave MoPo a reason for something he was going to do anyway. I always thought that NC's ambitions were too big for a club of our size. I know that sort of statement makes some fans very angry (the old 'ambition' chestnut again) but I believe that it is probably true and as with all 'what ifs' we will never know.
0


KriSaint added 13:32 - Apr 3

Hard game to watch.
Playing Austin from the start and leaving Sims out of the squad was a mistake by Hughes.

I´m as disappointeed as anyone but for me it´s still too early to give up.

Leapfrog Huddersfield and keep Stoke behind us (which is not the biggest task in the world) means no relegation = success.

If Hudderfield don´t make more than 5 points in their last 6 games and we keep Stoke behind us, the following results will keep us up:

Bournemouh at home: 3 points
Swansea away: 3 points
Everton away: 1 point
Leicester away: 1 point.

= 8 points

= 36 points total.

0


nightwish added 16:21 - Apr 3

Great ovation for Matt Smith when he was subbed.It seemed that nearly every QPR supporter was on their feet to applaud him off.
0


VespaDale added 13:10 - Apr 5

Callum Styles for bury 4.1? By far their best player & would love him at the Dale...
0


kirbys added 20:01 - Apr 7

What a belting match. Pty Dale missed the win.
0


geraldo added 20:33 - Apr 7

Our substitutions totally changed the game - they were scared stiff of the two attackers we took off and we replaced them with an anonymous player and a defender who should have been on from the beginning
0


56years added 21:29 - Apr 7

Brilliant upfront and in midfield - awful in defence!
0


Yorkshire_Dale added 22:28 - Apr 7

Great game with both sides out for the 3 points...Portsmouth were no mugs but Dale matched them and beyond.

Real pity we just could n't hang on.......at least we are making a fist of this survival jobby.
0


pete_boggs added 16:43 - Apr 8

Much better effort and an enjoyable game to watch. If we'd have started with Sims or Lemina instead of Prowsey we might have won it.
5


welhamdowed added 17:19 - Apr 8

Better but let's not get carried away, we got beat by a weekened Arsenal side and conceded 3 again. Good to see Yosh back, bizzarely we've missed him.
1


petedoors1 added 17:46 - Apr 8

Bad luck in losing we deserved a point. Much better performance by most players. Tadic played better today but Prowse and Sims gave nothing. Nice to see Long and Austin score.
2


mattthelegend added 19:19 - Apr 8

Good effort today, albeit a weakened Arsenal. Too little too late I think. Thought the 5 across the back worked well, good to see Soares doing what he should have been doing all season. Long worked his arse off as usual but this time capped it with a goal, unlucky with the off side as a well taken goal. Tadic looked better, hopefully he has caught up on some sleep. Hojbjerg had a great game in the midfield and Austin when he came on did what he does best when given the opportunity, these were the stand out players for me today.
4


darthvader added 19:29 - Apr 8

Much better. Showed effort and actually cared. Maya seemed to make a bit of a difference at the back I thought Stephens was spoiling for a fight way before his red card but at least he is showing some fight How that weasel willshere didn't get sent off I'll never know . The ref was a tad bias as always when we play against the top sides . Let's hope we can fight like that again and pick up a couple of mins to go with it.
I'm much more confident after this latest defeat.
6


darthvader added 19:29 - Apr 8

Much better. Showed effort and actually cared. Maya seemed to make a bit of a difference at the back I thought Stephens was spoiling for a fight way before his red card but at least he is showing some fight How that weasel willshere didn't get sent off I'll never know . The ref was a tad bias as always when we play against the top sides . Let's hope we can fight like that again and pick up a couple of mins to go with it.
I'm much more confident after this latest defeat.
0


darthvader added 19:32 - Apr 8

Sorry for the duplicate I don't know how to delete it
-1


larry12 added 19:57 - Apr 8

Shame that Hoedt didn't get sent off instead of the moron Stephens. At least one of those rubbish defenders misses a game. 9 goals in 3 games shows those 2 are complete carp
-3


SanMarco added 20:23 - Apr 8

Difficult to know whether to be encouraged at a better performance or disappointed to lose again - this time to a side who barely seemed to be awake for long periods but still managed to score 3 against us. We are on the brink now. We need 4 points from Chelsea and Leicester.
4


SaintBrock added 21:16 - Apr 8

Too little too late but same old mistakes on display which consigned us to inevitable defeat. We might as well start planning for next season.
4


aceofthebase added 22:09 - Apr 8

Cedric a fine performance as an attacker but utter rubbish at defending a cross to his post. Gained a goal but cost us a goal and the match.
-5


AndyD123 added 22:41 - Apr 10

Absolutely diabolical!!!!
0


smegma added 23:15 - Apr 10

Our pace from BOS and ickle Smyth was the highlight tonight. Both were excellent as was the cross by Furlong to gift Sylla the third goal was worth the entrance fee alone. And it was with his left peg !!!!

The speech by Andy Sinton at half time was tear jerking.

8 goals in last two home games.

Evil Les, Lee Hoos should be sacked.
0


geraldo added 12:55 - Apr 11

Another match where KH forgot how much better we play with a back 3 - he will probably learn when it is too late!
0


Ali_Diarea added 16:58 - Apr 14

Spineless.
2


DPeps added 16:58 - Apr 14

I hate to agree with Chelsea fans but their chant of 'that's why you're going down' was spot on. Other results just in have not helped at all.

Decent performance but our achilles heel is our total inability to defend high balls. I think Hughes could've reacted to the situation better, as the game was basically up before he made any subs
6


codge added 17:09 - Apr 14

We need to realize it's a 90 minute game, same problem in the end valiant effort for 70 minutes but then the usual collapse.
Shame to see it go the same as so many this season but it never seems to change.Can't see a way out now as other results did not help us, some positive things but to many of the negative things that have plagued us all year.
5


vanmans added 17:27 - Apr 14

That's it now then could be going down again next year. Should have got a Better replacement for Puel.
6


petedoors1 added 17:41 - Apr 14

SACK THE BOARD
5


SanMarco added 17:55 - Apr 14

That's that then. How in the hell did it come to this? Not long ago we had one of the better defences in the whole league. It is certainly fitting that relegation was all but confirmed by a defensive capitulation. Of the many catastrophic errors made by Les Reed over the past eighteen or so months the second most important one, after the MP fiasco of course, has been the repeated failures to understand that our central defence was getting dangerously weak (also a right back who can defend would have been good). There is no argument now - yes, we don't score enough but in the heat of a relegation struggle, at those crucial moments you need the defence to stand strong. They did their best - it wasn't lack of effort it was lack of quality. 4 points thrown away in a week by our inability to defend when under pressure. Chelski had 9 minutes of pressure in the whole game and scored 3.

If Les Reed has any decency or honour he will stop drawing his large salary now. That money comes from those who pay to watch, whether live or on tv, he is responsible for what has happened so he should go. A few sensible, and obvious to us all, interventions over the past few months would have seen us safe in mid table. Where was Carillo today? Where was Boufal? If either had been a competent centre back we would have been fine. The general response to our relegation will be that ' you can't keep selling your best players' - of course there is some truth in that but the bigger truth is that footballing matters have been run by a complacent idiot...
9


sidsaint added 19:24 - Apr 14

If we are going to concede 3 each week then its all over.
2


SaintBrock added 19:38 - Apr 14

Good to see some organisation at the back and more purpose going forward. Bednarek suddenly looks like turning into the player we hoped he'd be. Ward Prowse, give me strength. This game makes no difference to our situation at all as we had all written this one off as unwindable. We were down weeks ago and nothing has hanged and now the gap is beyond recovery.
4


ElSanto added 19:45 - Apr 14

Fair play to Nick, who highlighted the defensive problem very early on, and, rightly so, told us it would be our downfall - more so than out attack.
2


larry12 added 20:03 - Apr 14

Les Reed bought Hoedt. Total rubbish. Who would have thought that playing Bednarek instead of Hoedt might have enabled us to stay up. In Les Reed we trust, said complete and utter morons by the hundreds. From comfortable above mid-table to relegation in 2 seasons++++++ sacking TWO managers that HE appointed. Les Reed has destroyed OUR club. Les Reed is the cause and now the effect.
6


saintjf added 20:12 - Apr 14

Oh dear, that was very difficult to take. We were beaten by a poor Chelsea side (with some pure comedy defending on their part) who were clearly were not up for it. I was sort of happy but worried at half time. At least I had seen some goals and been entertained but surely Chelsea could not be so bad in the second half. They were not. Most of us have realised that we are going down by Xmas time except for the buffoons in charge of the club. If they have any doubts then please look at the table. Hughes has though brought some heart back to the club and full marks to him for taking up the challenge.




7


56years added 20:31 - Apr 14

A win against all the odds - team Rochdale at its best!
0


Boris1977 added 20:33 - Apr 14

Caught between feeling sick and carefree. The scrutiny will be off in div 2. Can't forgive the collapse and our soft center has been clear to see for ages. The 75 million pound in the bank can't stop panic and conceding goals. We do create our own problems but the sanctimonious little shit in black handed Chelsea their lifeline. For their first goal the Chelsea player rode the challenge but then was tackled cleanly by Pierre, but he bought the play back for a foul nobody else saw. Both him and the linesman on the kingsland wing were useless. For the second long put a decent challenge but was penalised with a yellow and they scored the equaliser. There are several reasons for our relegation but the main one has to be selling off best players and not replacing them. Losing to shit officiating hurts more than being below par.
5


saintjf added 21:13 - Apr 14

Oh dear, that was very difficult to take. We were beaten by a poor Chelsea side (with some pure comedy defending on their part) who were clearly were not up for it. I was sort of happy but worried at half time. At least I had seen some goals and been entertained but surely Chelsea could not be so bad in the second half. They were not. Most of us have realised that we are going down by Xmas time except for the buffoons in charge of the club. If they have any doubts then please look at the table. Hughes has though brought some heart back to the club and full marks to him for taking up the challenge.




1


Boris1977 added 22:09 - Apr 14

Caught between feeling sick and carefree. The scrutiny will be off in div 2. Can't forgive the collapse and our soft center has been clear to see for ages. The 75 million pound in the bank can't stop panic and conceding goals. We do create our own problems but the sanctimonious little shit in black handed Chelsea their lifeline. For their first goal the Chelsea player rode the challenge but then was tackled cleanly by Pierre, but he bought the play back for a foul nobody else saw. Both him and the linesman on the kingsland wing were useless. For the second long put a decent challenge but was penalised with a yellow and they scored the equaliser. There are several reasons for our relegation but the main one has to be selling off best players and not replacing them. Losing to shit officiating hurts more than being below par.
0


AussieSaint added 11:36 - Apr 15

On paper we may have a good enough squad or team for the premier league but for too many games we have played without fight or passion. Still I was shocked when pundits predicted we’d go down in Jan but now it seems real....gutted and shocked. Greedy board should be sacked for bastardizing the Southampton Way. Hopefully Ward Prowse stays , get Sims, McQueen, Reed &!Targett to stay and start again and stop wasting money on buying a squad job st filling their pockets with no desire or passion. We March On!
1


Boris1977 added 12:32 - Apr 15

El Santo, very good applaud for highlighting nicks point from months ago regarding the desperate need for a center back. We do have a decent team who play decent football but you cannot concede 3 goals on a regular basis and expect to win matches. Puel realised the need for a safety first approach because of the lack of robustness at the back post injury to van tosser and Pellegrino was even more hamstrung by the Dutch dick not wanting to be at the club. Sparky has come in with little choice but to go for wins and because we do have quality in the team we can score despite not having a reliably fit striker. However the defence has been our undoing. Word of praise to saints fans yesterday - we played our part in us going 2-0 up. As for the rest of the match......
4


Dewi1jack added 12:36 - Apr 15

Would quite happily have taken a draw against Everton before the game.
Left disappointed that we hadn't taken all 3 points. That shows how much we have improved recently, even though I thought Everton were totally dire and looked like they wanted to draw against us.
Wish someone would teach Narsingh how to cross a ball. He can easily beat defenders when he wants to, but no end product or thought once he has.
Andre Ayew needs to learn to not be so selfish as well.

Easy to understand why Everton fans want rid of Fat Sam.
Glad, really glad some people on here didn't get their wish and have him here as boss after Clement.
0


SaintBrock added 13:42 - Apr 15

I was glad to see Ward Prowse to be the first to be hauled off by Hughes.What a shocking waste of space that guy is. Hopefully Hughes & Co have rumbled him, can't tackle, can't run fast and can't head to save his effing life. However did he get to be a professional footballer? Hope he doesn't start again this season there should be no place for energetic headless chicken.

If he was the best of a bad bunch in that grad year of the Academy it speaks volumes about how bad the rest of them must have been, as it has now come to light.
1


codge added 22:12 - Apr 19

Although we got a point l fear it could be to late,to many passes going astray again but we held on but not enough in front of goal again to think we would score the much needed goal.Still in with a chance but slowly slipping away from us.
2


March20 added 22:39 - Apr 19

Where was the fight for three points
1


March20 added 22:41 - Apr 19

Where was the fight for three points
0


DPeps added 22:42 - Apr 19

I make that 8 'must win' games that we've failed to win
3


larry12 added 23:18 - Apr 19

Why can't we give -10 for Prowse and Davis, pointless rubbish.
Romeu - 50, the most useless player ALL season. Long is no longer able to play football.
Slowest team out of defense in EPL history. Yoshida constantly keeping everybody onside.
No midfield. Hughes has got nothing to work with.
-1


dovif added 01:02 - Apr 20

There should be a rating for Les Reed -100 would be my vote. He did not signed a striker at the start of the year, stuffed up the Van Dyke sale – which should have been done at the start of the year, stuffed up the coaching change last year, should have signed 2 good central defender, and should have signed a good Attacking midfielder (instead of Defensive midfielders). He has been horrible in every way, he should quit in shame … this has been his disaster
4


helpineedsomebody added 08:29 - Apr 20

how do you attack when the system you play 8 at the back typical mark hughes
on sunday he will play the same system DEFENSIVE
JUST ACCEPT MARK YOU ARE NOT A TOP TEN MANAGER YOUR RECORD SHOWS AS MUCH
-4


patred added 10:05 - Apr 20

we got a fair deal off the referee tonight...makes a change!
0


SaintBrock added 10:56 - Apr 20

The matches come and go, the results remain the same. We are playing try to our league position and will struggle next season with this group of players minus the one's we sell over the summer. Where will we find another Lambert, Schneiderlin or Lallana to get us out of this mess.
2


SaintBrock added 10:58 - Apr 20

The matches come and go, the results remain the same. We are playing try to our league position and will struggle next season with this group of players minus the one's we sell over the summer. Where will we find another Lambert, Schneiderlin or Lallana to get us out of this mess.
0


SaintBrock added 10:58 - Apr 20

helpineedsomebody you need to check your facts a bit better.
0


Yorkshire_Dale added 18:34 - Apr 21

Why do we sit back and back and back and invite pressure without any upfield outlet whatsoever......our clearances were only short-term as Bradford came straight back at us and invited more pressure,forcing us into free kicks and corners and waiting for the inevitable sucker.....and along it came!

Subs again useless......Kosi aint no match for a departing Rathboni!
0


codge added 18:39 - Apr 22

Wish we played the whole game like the second half way to nervy in the first half. Long awful again in front of goal a complete waste of time.Midfield to many balls going astray again Romeu and Lemina a looked out of there depth don't no what has happened to them.Need to get back to finding a way to win soon or it's the Championship for us.
0


SaintBrock added 18:46 - Apr 22

A bit numb after this one, all so very predictable even the outcome. We no longer have the capacity to surprise, all spirit has ebbed away and the sooner this season is over the better.

We need a fresh start under new leadership at all levels and a bloody good clear out at all levels.

One doubts we'll ever achieve again what we have achieved those past four seasons not including this one.

Next year won't be a stroll in the park at all with WBA, Stoke, Middlesboro, Villa and Derby to contend with assuming Cardiff & Fulham are coming up with Wolves.

I will 'though buy a season ticket again after a three year absence on a pay as you go basis provided that Reed, Kreuger and a few others get the boot including Mark Hughes - who to be fair had no chance of achieving anything here but also he is not the sort of manager we need.

The Saints are dead, long live Southampton FC!
10


larry12 added 19:05 - Apr 22

Nice to see that Hughes thinks Prowsey is a complete waste of space and that Davis don't belong in the 1st team squad.
6


halftimeorange added 19:27 - Apr 22

We have to be realistic. Chelsea went up a gear a week ago and we couldn't cope. Today they exploited our obvious weaknesses. It was all very predictable but we shouldn't overlook the fact that they are a top European side and blessed with a multitude of talent whereas Saints are currently leaderless on the pitch and weak in central defence and playmaking. It shouldn't be that way but it is so there should be no raising of eyebrows. I'm afraid it's the white flag that's been elevated. We can only hope that those at the helm have the drive and ambition to right what they have plainly got wrong and they need to come out and say so if they want to retain any of their dwindling credibility.
3


DPeps added 19:29 - Apr 22

Neither side was particularly impressive. We've improved under Hughes, but not enough to actually make a difference to the results.
The truth is that we've got a lot of average and below-average premier league players. Strikers who panic in front of goal, midfielders who can't pass forwards without giving up possession, and defenders who give attackers space. We need a serious cull, regardless of what happens at the end of this season. I'd find it easier to list the players I'd want to keep
4


beynali73 added 20:09 - Apr 22

Not sure why I bothered today as we could see what the issues were all season and those who could make the changes didn't and today epitomised the season writ small. The defending today was pathetic and seems to be getting worse. Both goals today in their own ways had more in common with hung over sunday morning amateurs than top division defenders. We all know what the problems are. Can you imagine if arsenal sold henry, vierra, adams, Dixon, keown, parlour, bergkamp, pires and Ljungberg and lost 3 decent managers over 4 consecutive seasons how dire they would be? Well they'd be something like us. What saints have achieved and destroyed in a handful of season is unprecedented in modern football. God help us in the championship next year.
7


thornhill1976 added 20:16 - Apr 22

Dreadful. Many fans stayed away because they knew it would be. Watching Saints in recent seasons has been like watching a tarantula lay it’s eggs in your ball sack. Bloody painful and you know there is worse to come. Too many average players and a huge wage bill. Shane Long is a joke. He spends all of his time trying to draw a foul and couldn’t trap a bag of cement. He ends up chasing his first touch all over the pitch. Rumours are that Long is on £60-80k a week - whoever signed off on that deal should be sacked. As for Hoedt - he is the worst defender I have seen in years. At times this year he has looked like a one-legged man trying to stand up in a hammock. If you think I am exaggerating - watch their second goal. How have we managed to acquire such mediocrity? Clear out needed. ASAP.
3


helpineedsomebody added 21:58 - Apr 22

what do you expect 8 at the back again
1


forallthesaints added 22:39 - Apr 22

Within 10 seconds when the pass upfield from the kick-off went straight off for a throw, I thought: "Well, that's that, then." And it never really got any better apart from a 10-15 minute spell after Tadic and Redmond came on. There was suddenly a bit of creativity and, in Redmond's case, pace. But the starting line-up had no flair at all unless you count Lemina but he played like a zombie until about 70 minutes in. Bertrand had no help down the left so he and Moses just cancelled each other out and it was the same for Cedric. Loads of balls hoofed up in the general direction of Austin and Long. Austin barely left the ground and Long was easily snuffed out. Only much later did we start to put genuine pressure on the Chelsea defence and they wobbled. Sadly we haven't got anyone with the ability to score a goal. Perhaps most of the team that finished the game should start against Bournemouth with Two of Long, Austin and Gabbiadini. And find a place for JWP. If next Saturday we haven't scored or at least created chances in the first 20 minutes, the crowd will get jittery and that will spread to the players and Bournemouth could take riotous advantage as Chelsea did last week. Hughes says Saints have got to throw the kitchen sink at the rest of the season. Well, today, he gently tossed a flannel and some cold water. At least we're now spared dozens of "when are the tickets on sale?" posts and I won't have to part with any more cash for the final,
-4


thornhill1976 added 23:00 - Apr 22

Dreadful. Many fans stayed away because they knew it would be. Watching Saints in recent seasons has been like watching a tarantula lay it’s eggs in your ball sack. Bloody painful and you know there is worse to come. Too many average players and a huge wage bill. Shane Long is a joke. He spends all of his time trying to draw a foul and couldn’t trap a bag of cement. He ends up chasing his first touch all over the pitch. Rumours are that Long is on £60-80k a week - whoever signed off on that deal should be sacked. As for Hoedt - he is the worst defender I have seen in years. At times this year he has looked like a one-legged man trying to stand up in a hammock. If you think I am exaggerating - watch their second goal. How have we managed to acquire such mediocrity? Clear out needed. ASAP.
0


pete_boggs added 23:09 - Apr 22

1/2 out of 10
1


KriSaint added 11:20 - Apr 23

Could have beenmuch worse. We suffer from total lack of luck. We could have scored 4 goals.

1) Long one on one with Cabellero. 1. touch non existing, unfortunately.
That was it for me. Long out.
Is the man sufffering from a neurological disease? No technical skills anymore. Where has his pace gone?

2) Redmonds effort. With a minimum of luck it had gone in.

3) Cabellero´s own goal. Foul from Austin? Never!

4) Austin hit inside of the post. With a minimum of luck it had also gone in.

NO F*****G LUCK AT ALL.
4


patred added 17:31 - Apr 28

what a game..21nd half end to end..desperate defending, bodies on line to block any shot. On top of that McCarthy pulls off a great save in the last minute of added time.
More entertainment than any of the Puel or Pellegrinos performances put together.
If we keep that up, the miracle could still be on
..................COYR................
13


rochdaleriddler added 17:36 - Apr 28

Utter shite
1


codge added 17:51 - Apr 28

Some of the best goalkeeping from a saints player for years, some were pure magical to watch,saves with all parts of his body the way it should be.Everyone played a part today was so refreshing to see everyone pulling together, Lemina and Romeu were top class this week. Tadic finally put it all together and was a class apart.Were still in with a shot of staying up if we can keep this up Coyr.
11


DPeps added 18:11 - Apr 28

Much needed performance and result. I feel more confident now, especially when you look at Huddersfield's remaining fixtures
3


Geoff78 added 18:29 - Apr 28

Very promising afternoon in W12. Was this the youngest ever QPR side? Not overawed, although to be fair Birmingham were poor. I was especially impressed with Ilias Chair, who in his previous Loftus Rd outing did ok, but today his work rate, pressing and skill were at a much higher level. Combined with Eze's touch and ability to be half a step ahead of opponents, Freeman's skillful buzzing around the opposition's defence and Scowen protecting the back four we looked well-balanced and threatening.

And well done to Lumley, who apart from one fumble that he got away with, looked comfortable, more so than Matt Ingram in the last couple of games. Honourable mentions to Furlong and Bidwell who did well as centre-halves.

Great to see the warm applause for Jamie and the Chief. Well-deserved for both. Tony Fernandes' tweet about changes sounded ominous, but there's a lot to build on.
0


forallthesaints added 19:01 - Apr 28

Phew!!! That last 20 minutes has caused me to double the dose on my blood pressure tablets. Nail biting to say the least. So many times this season it's been like that only for the defence to finally give up a goal, usually scored by Giroud! Not this time. Yes there were times when we were screaming for a forward pass but once again, there was no one there. But forget the critical analysis for once. Everyone put in a major shift today. Tadic was a master and exhausted by the time he went off. Lemina gave flashes to remind us how good we all thought he was at the beginning of the season before he went into some weird shell. The back three were mostly steady but did get caught for pace on several occasions. And McCarthy was immense. Two unbelievable saves - one with his foot at almost point blank range and the deflected effort at the end is save of the season. So a great effort from everyone, including the crowd. By far the best atmosphere of the season, especially at the final whistle. But here's a question... with five minutes left and the game as tense as it was with so much at stake, how the hell can people leave? I don't care if you're parked in front of someone or have to get a bus - get the next one. Okay, if we're losing and out of it, go if you must, but in a situation like today, decent fans (and most did) stay and cheer the lads on. COYS
13


SaintBrock added 19:21 - Apr 28

Well done Tadic & Lemina especially, just hope its not too little too late. Scraping a win against Bournemouth at home does say rather a lot about where we are now as opposed to where we used to be a couple of years ago.
8


mattthelegend added 19:24 - Apr 28

Amazing what a bit of adversity brings out in people, just a pity that’s what it takes to get the team and fans on board. Tadic , Macarthy, Romeu and Lamina all had great games. But i was impressed with Bednarek for someone young and very little experience of the premier league has come into the team and gone about his business. All to play for then Saints, hopefully not a flash in the pan. UTS.
8


halftimeorange added 20:06 - Apr 28

Couldn't agree more about fans leaving early - I was amazed - is there only one bus back to some places? McCarthy gave the best Saints goalkeeping performance since Kelvin's away display at Leeds. That save at the end was nothing short of world-class and I seriously hope he's signed up for next season. Lemina showed what he can do and I can only think his health or his head haven't been right for most of his time with us. There are some downsides - Hoedt doesn't look good enough to me and neither is Redmond. I also think that he and Bertrand don't want to or can't play with each other. Bednarek shows promise but lacks pace and Tadic once again showed what a good player he can be if some of his teammates are performing. Romeu was also effective similar to last season but there were still too many misunderstandings and wayward passes. I'm not sure that Swansea will be relegated and we might be wishing that they beat Stoke to help us. Three points might well keep us up at Huddersfield's expense.
2


Wren67 added 20:19 - Apr 28

The performances of the newcomers bodes well for the future. Chair's performance was excellent. Demanded the ball used it well and topped it off with a goal. Eze's time and confidence on the ball gives me real hope for the next season. He can see and execute defense splitting passes. O Samuel is strong on the ball, powerful and will develop into an effective striker. Perhaps Brum were poor but our youngsters looks the business
0


smiffdub added 20:44 - Apr 28

Great to be able to celebrate a win, of course. But most of all, the display of spirit by most of the team gives some hope. Every week McCarthy makes it look more and more absurd that FF stayed in the side so long. He was the difference. If you get that kind of goalkeeping, and then Tadic, Lemina playing well, things tend to go right. In defence, Bednarek so far looks superior to Hoedt who has been awful for a while now...two weeks in a row he essentially gave up goals by ducking when a cross came in! Anyhow, good for now!
4


leighsaint added 21:54 - Apr 28

A bit more like the old Saints with players trying. Lemina was my man of the match pity he didn’t preform like this earlier. Just a pity we took so long to get rid of Mope. Same players but putting in more efforts but did we leave it to late.
0


Esox_Lucius added 22:03 - Apr 28

Eze Chair upsets City(said in a Brummie accent)
0


larry12 added 00:42 - Apr 29

Tadic has been rubbish, let's get rid said clueless load of t*ssers who know jack shiiite about football. Hoedt, get 2 cruciates you pointless slow clod. Romeu , stop and get a job walking slowly, you are really good at that. Long, give up playing fusball you are pointless. Redmond, just go................. anywhere.Prowse........... don't come on the pitch, just don't mr Ploddy ploddy do nothing.
-15


KriSaint added 20:41 - Apr 29

What a thriller.
Good to see Lemina deliver a good effort.
Bring on Everton and let´s rape THEM at Goodison for a change.
I can´t recall us winning at Goodison since 1997 when Kevin Davies scored a brilliant solo goal in our 2-0 win.
0


pete_boggs added 19:35 - May 5

Cursed
2


Lazz added 19:40 - May 5

Bloody Bertrand he wants away
-6


codge added 19:40 - May 5

Ref gave them enough extra time, Moss truly a wa-k-r always a worthless referee when we have him.So heartbreaking for the lads another great effort deserved so much more.Still in our hands unless we get another bad Ref.
8


SaintBrock added 19:47 - May 5

Heartbreaking. A moment of madness from Yoshida cost us the match. I know Bertrand made that final error but he was knackered with so much pressure piled on the defence after the Red Card so not really culpable for the goal. With luck like this it seems we are doomed to go down. A win at Swansea is the only option left to us. That will keep us up whatever happens on the last day if only by goal difference unless Citeh put 5 past us. Swans will beat Stoke easily now that Stoke are down.
4


SaintBrock added 19:48 - May 5

code, don't be irrational, Cedric was down for well over two minutes. Use your eyes man.
-1


SaintBrock added 19:49 - May 5

codge, don't be irrational, Cedric was down for well over two minutes. Use your eyes man
-2


leighsaint added 19:50 - May 5

Why oh why didn’t Bertrand put the ball out of the ground instead of keeping it in play. I thought that they are supposed to be professional what with him keeping the ball in play and Cedric going down wanting trainers on in extra time beggers belief. School boy errors, do they want us to stay up
7


larry12 added 19:51 - May 5

Romeu shiiiite, Prowsey pointless shiiiite, Hoedt pointless shiiiite, etc, etc ,etc
-9


DPeps added 21:25 - May 5

In the cold light of day I'll reflect that this has been a good day for us. But it's hard not to be gutted. Everton were terrible, and were there to be stuffed.
For what it's worth I thought Yoshi's first yellow was harsh.
Also, please someone teach Hoedt how to slide tackle with his right foot
6


saintjf added 22:32 - May 5

I would have accepted a draw before the match. We can still survive. Results like this are why we are where we are.
7


SanMarco added 22:39 - May 5

We are not having the luck. We deserved to win but it ended up a lot worse than if it had been the 0-0 it looked for a long time it was goung to be.

Why oh why did Bertrand do the only thing that could possibly allow them to score in the 20 remaining seconds? Also Moss was the usual bag of sh1te giving them that free kick against Redmond in the corner and then letting them take it from the wrong place. He was guessing - the linesman didn't flag.

Also why did Cedric have to go down for 80 seconds at the start of injury time. It just gives the idiot referee the excuse he needs. Having said that it wasn't the time that was the problem. There was FIVE seconds left when that ball hit the net. Yoshi's first yellow was unfair but he was still an idiot to lunge in for the second.

My nerves are shredded now - and we've got to go through it all again on Tuesday. Swansea wont be as obliging as Everton but maybe we will have a bit of LUCK for a change.
9


KriSaint added 22:42 - May 6

Sadly, Lady Luck stayed away today again. Where has she been all season? (Please turn up on tuesday in Wales!).
So sorry for the lads and the fans that we were robbed in the end.

That would have been the most deserved Saints away win of the season.

We looked well organized and dangerous on the counter.

Terrible refereeing in key moments. Redmond DID NOT commit a foul close to the goal line in the Everton half in extra time, and Redmond should have been allowed to carry on with the ball in a potential big chance creating situation for Saints. But no. Moss felt he had to give a free kick and he even allowed Everton to take the free kick super quickly, several meters away from the correct place.

McCarthy was awesome. One (and only one) great save required - from Baines´ free kick. Several good cross clearances and collections. He looked like England national team material, and Southgate was watching from the stands.

Still, a massive point, and we have some momentum with us when we play Swansea on tuesday.
If we win that game, we are safe.
If we loose, we have to beat City, while Huddersfield loose to Chelsea and Arsenal.

We are still very much alive.

COYS <3
5


Boris1977 added 21:47 - May 7

Shit, put off for a day commenting on the match. Decent effort against a half hearted team. Just grateful we don't have the difficult run in that Huddersfield and wba have, as they have both picked up great PTS in difficult places. Can you imagine saints playing man u, spuds, man city and keeping a clean sheet? Everton on beach mode and we only put one chance away. The ref made several bad decisions but Everton were not interested until the end and we didn't put them to the sword. I'm tired and worn down by this season and don't feel like I understand what I'm supporting anymore. We need 2 goals at Swansea otherwise what has been happening for the last few months will happen. COYRs, together as one.
1


WestSussexSaint added 22:15 - May 8

Phew!
1


WestSussexSaint added 22:16 - May 8

Phew!
0


codge added 22:27 - May 8

Well done lads,what a difference in there desire and attitude since the change of manager. A fabulous result for everyone from the fans and the club as a whole.Coyr.
7


helpineedsomebody added 22:27 - May 8

over to you now MR GAO
5


SanMarco added 00:55 - May 9

That was nerve-shreddingly tense. We deserved to win and Hughes has definitely brought a more common sense approach. I need a day or two to get used to the fact that we are NOT going down! Well done Saints and all the fans that were there.

Glad to see that the swing needed is 10, not a paltry 9. I think Man City will have to do most of the work on that because Swansea don't look like they are going to put 5 or 6 against anyone.
6


TimSaint added 01:50 - May 9

Simply - get the fvck in there !!

Set up to frustrate in the first half - but apart from 2 great Austin chances, us fans were the only ones frustrated !!

Much better in 2nd half and the injury to Bed probably did us a favour, as it meant putting an extra man further up the pitch and we were more organised at the back - winning headers instead of everyone leaving it for everyone else !!

On another night, Austin could have had a hatrick and we could have also scored from Long, Tadic and Gab. We had by far the better chances and Swans didn't really create many clear cut chances - so we can see why they are where they are !!

Great atmosphere and support from the Saints fans and superb to see the players so pumped when they came over at the end. Loads of shirts into the crowd and Charlie launched his boots into the disabled section !! Only moan apart from the hotel and bus fiascos, was the Booing from the Swans fans as Bednarek was being stretchered off !! (Not even 2 x M4 diversions could ruin the journey home !!)
7


Wembley76 added 15:45 - May 9

Never gonna be pretty........ But the result was purely and truly delightful on so many levels!
2


KriSaint added 22:33 - May 9

Congratulations to not only Mark Hughes and the players but everybody involved with and/or supporting the club and a big thank You to Manolo Gabbiadini for the one goal of the match and to Alex McCarthy for a copy of his world class save against Everton.
As Nail biting affair as expected. The players and Hughes showed courage and believe and job well done.
I am so glad avoiding being a nerve reck until the final whistle on sunday and avoiding depression there after.
It´s tough being a Saints fan sometimes , but it has been my club for almost 40 years and will forever be <3
0


pete_boggs added 17:01 - May 13

Redmond was so bad he made JWP look like Messi when he came on.
0


codge added 17:21 - May 13

Saints can't seem to get a brake against Man City last minute of extra time again,but we are back again next year and have a feeling we will much better. Great effort from the lads shame we could not get a point out of the game though, but l am encouraged for next year.Coyr.
3


helpineedsomebody added 18:26 - May 13

lots to look forward to next season
playing eight at the back every game & then having to listen to the management afterwards

NO INVESTMENT SINCE 1885 & a few people making huge sums of money then telling us do as you are told
-1


SaintBrock added 20:03 - May 13

Poor match with hardly any serious efforts on goal. A bore draw would have been about right. Hughes has certainly tightened us up at the back but with a pathetic front line we have no chance of winning matches against the likes of Man C. Outcome was more or less inevitable.

Hoedt & Hojberg were simple outstanding
2


sidsaint added 20:55 - May 13

Excellent team spirit. Hojbjerg's best game for Saints. The system seems to work, will it continue under Hughes next season? We deserved at least a point against the Champions. Well done Saints.
6


KriSaint added 21:24 - May 13

Good,professional performance from Saints against a formidable team.
Now let´s build a solid team for next season under the leadership of Mark Hughes.
Happy summer everyone. :-) <3
3


forallthesaints added 21:38 - May 13

Cracking atmosphere from first to last. If only we'd played with that spirit and tightness at the back for the rest of a very uncomfortable season. Hoedt's best game since Palace away and Yoshida and Stephens were very good too. Shame about the last seconds but thankfully it didn't dampen spirits although I had a sudden flash of horror as I imagined Swansea had had a good second half and won 11-2. As many (including players) have said, this season has been a serious reminder that we can't rest on laurels and cruise to 8th. I hope most of the players stay and build on the last few weeks and that we get one or two new folk in including a proven striker. We've basically got a good squad (with one or two vacancies available) that have not played well enough all season until the last few weeks. With the change of manager came a change of heart.
5


mattthelegend added 21:41 - May 13

Can’t wait to hear what Les and Ralph have to say, should be interesting 😉
5


kgp58 added 07:36 - Aug 5

We were too easy to play against. Giving them.to much time and space. Never really putting them under pressure.
0


Badlands added 19:23 - Aug 11

Who gave Fulton marks? Shocking performance but for the goal.
-1


Geoff78 added 23:07 - Aug 11

Why would anyone expect basically the same team to be suddenly better than they were last year? Eze of course showed some real class and I was impressed with Kakay who, after looking nervous early on, got forward well and grew in confidence.

The real question is that although we all (or mostly) think Scowen, Luongo & Freeman did well last season as the heart of our midfield, actually overall we were poor then and continued to be poor today. As the engine room of the team they promise more than they deliver. Perhaps Maclaren can get them to dominate games, in which case, with Eze playing in the 'hole' the future could look good. But at the very best the jury's out.

Three positives: defence were unlucky - surely not a penalty, and maybe offside for the first goal, but borderline at best, Kakay and Eze offer glimpses of a bright future and Leistner reminded me of Steve Palmer. Even his Mum wouldn't say Palmer was the best centre half we've had, but he was the right man for that time - dogged and determined and raised the level of players around him. Can I hope Leistner will do the same?

Oh well...a long, tough season ahead of us.
5


halftimeorange added 18:44 - Aug 12

Wrong system played in the first half. Much better in the second and the team needs to blend. Build-up play too slow. McCarthy still making brilliant saves but this business of passing out from the back is really risky - not just for Saints but many sides trying to emulate the Spanish. Either be sure or don't do it.
7


aceofthebase added 19:59 - Aug 12

The presence of Ings and Ely changed the whole attitude of Saints. At last they look like they can weave through a defence. Redmond did his bit , goals must surely come.
6


aceofthebase added 20:45 - Aug 12

The presence of Ings and Ely changed the whole attitude of Saints. At last they look like they can weave through a defence. Redmond did his bit , goals must surely come.
-1


TimSaint added 22:05 - Aug 12

Took us quite a while to get going and get organised at the back, preferring to panic and hoof it clear, or f@nny around with it on the edge of our own box and then have to hoof it.

16 mins before our first shot, but despite our shape and formation, still carved out some decent chances with Lemina's flying header (well saved), Armstrong's cross shot across the face of goal, a possible penalty from a corner and a couple of blocked shots.

That said, we needed McCarthy to save us on a few occasions in the first half. His best was with his feet after a defensive header set up the best chance of the half. He also saved well at the far post at the end of the first half and also in injury time.

The injury to Armstrong (hope nothing serious) prompted personnel and formation changes. 442 proved a lot more lively and we suddenly had players willing to run at Burnley, take people on, intricately pass in and around the box and create chances.

Much better all round, apart from that final ball and a little bit of luck. Hart made some good saves and when we did hear him, a defender was on hand to head it off the line. Ely, Bert and on a few occasions, Stephens, all should have put in better balls or crosses but chose the wrong options.

Still, probably a fair result against the team playing it's 4th competitive game of the season, but why they have to dive so much is beyond me. Cork, Lennon and even the biggest culprit Wood !!

No real stand outs for Saints apart from perhaps Lemina, but the 2 subs were lively and we were a different side with them.
5


JimmyMeliaPhD added 23:20 - Aug 12

Not sure why we'd start out the season, and at home, and to a low scoring team, with such a defensive formation and such predictable tactics. But Hughes changed it at half-time and the second half approach was much more positive. Some real pluses from the match: include Ings looking as though he has goals in him, Vestergaard able to cover up the inadequacies of the other two CBs, and more smart goalkeeping. Trying to remain optimistic!
4


Bettwsresident added 10:03 - Aug 13

Sitting in Chapel end side of Kingsland with my family coming to their first Saints game to , so it was predictable that all the action was down the other end! A draw was a fair result, but it would have been nice to be be 1-1 for the sake of the family. It was not a boring 0-0. We dodged a bullet when Jack Corks goal was ruled offside when Burnley were completely dominating the game and we seemed to have no out ball. Got better as game progressed and 2nd half was great...the goal was coming, but never came.

I was really impressed with the new signings, loved the way Vestergaard exerted his presence. Looks a really good player capable of making opponents forwards think twice. Ely looked tidy, Ings potentially providing the attacking pivot we haven't had since Pelle, Lemina was our fulcrum, distributing really well and showing some superlative touches. Armstrong was our best player until he went down. I hope it is not too serious.

Burnely looked like a side that had played 3 competative games but by the last 20 mins we were all over them and Redmond had found his mojo..actually running at defenders and beating them.

All in a very encouraging 0-0. Only real negative was with the execption of a brilliant long range 1-2 with Armstrong in the first half that was inches from coming off and a superb last second tackle from Mee as he was chesting down to volley, CA looked pretty toothless and far to keen to fall over and win a free kick.
1


codge added 18:16 - Aug 18

As soon as l saw we had Lee Mason as ref l new we were in for a long day.We really need a leader on this team as captain Bertrand is not it.Our defence was a total shambles especially Cedric,and we started just as bad as last week.Up front Ings was the one positive but JWP was a wasted space in fact the midfield seem to lack any cohesion at all. The second half only slightly better but nowhere good enough.
9


mikesaint added 19:13 - Aug 18

As soon as I saw the team sheet with Prowse and Stephens in it and Vestergaard out I knew we would lose.
When are we going to loan players like Prowse and Stephens out to lower league clubs so they can get some experience. These two are not good enough for the Premier League.
9


halftimeorange added 20:18 - Aug 18

You could add a few more names to that list, Mikesaint - including Romeu and Lemina on this showing. For the life of me I couldn't understand why Lemina wasn't replaced by Hobjberg, if only to save him from the erratic Lee Mason. In any case, Hobjberg is amuch busier player on past showings and, in my opinion is our captain waiting because, as Codge says - the naturally reserved Bertrand is not right for the job. It shows how badly we need Vestergaard to be at the top of his game as Stephens is uncertain and Hoedt mistake-prone. There are too many sides who will be more intent than Everton in putting a fistful of goals past McCarthy. I can see some occasions when we'll need two hands to count the number of goals in a game involving Saints as things stand...and they won't be in our favour. I'm sorry for McCarthy as this wasn't the game to showcase his obvious talents in front of Southgate.
7


kgp58 added 20:55 - Aug 18

At half time we were very much in the match.
However the 2nd half implosion was almost suicidal. I've no idea has we'll recover from this embarrassment by Tuesday. Could be an interesting team selection.
0


aceofthebase added 23:15 - Aug 18

The first goal Saints were undone by a well-worked training ground goal.

The second goal was a repeat of at least half a dozen goals. A cross from the right and Cedric far too small and weak to prevent an easy headed goal. Just how long can we continue to give away goals and matches by playing Cedric.
1


JimmyMeliaPhD added 02:47 - Aug 19

I have to admit I wasn't put into an optimistic frame by last week's performance, but this week's was worse and I'm already starting to worry. There doesn't seem to be any real drive or energy in this team. A complete absence of commitment throughout the whole team throughout the whole first half. Like last week, second half looked a bit different, but basically we weren't ever going to ovecome a 2-0 lead. In fact, it was surprising that a) we scored at all, and b) that we didn't give up more goals. So, it looks like business as usual this season, unless something drastic happens. And business as usual could get even worse...the single thing I took from this game is that a CB pairing of Stephens and Hoedt is basically kamikaze. They both played the worst games I've seen from them. Meanwhile, the 3 other CBs we have are all basically superior....why this pair was picked, I'll never understand. Add to that that Soares was total rubbish today (he might as well have been off the field when Richarlison scored for all the good his "challenge" did). What's even more worrying is that it looks as if we're also in that frame where we don't get the decisions in our favour--Pickford's was one of the clearest red card offences I've seen in many seasons. I know I'll get jumped on by the optimists, but seriously, we need to worry.
8


Standard67 added 05:39 - Aug 19

After 3-1 instead of going into damage limitation mode we carried on trying to get back into the game and left gaps which West Brom exploited with ease. They are a good side with a lot of experience but I thought we were naïve at times on the pitch and in the dug out, we made it easy for them. Bristol City are not West Brom however and on Tuesday they are beatable.
0


SanMarco added 10:08 - Aug 19

Slightly worrying that it looked like the same old team (with Ings for Tadic), same old errors (cross from opposition right and header, chances that should have been taken at the other end) and the same old result. It is of course far too early to panic but I would bite the hand off that offered me a 16th place finish.
6


helpineedsomebody added 12:17 - Aug 19

now we are seeing why mark hughes is an average manager
4 GAMES LEFT
BRING IN BIG SAM & LITTLE SAM THEY WOULD SHAKE THE PLAYERS UP BIG TIME
-4


connell10 added 19:35 - Aug 19

RANGERS WERE A F UCKING DISGRACE TO THE BADGE!
0


Mervyn added 23:05 - Aug 21

Excellent team performance bar one
0


Badlands added 00:05 - Aug 22

Fulton better than Naughton!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
0


brad added 10:55 - Aug 22

very poor.....bidwell...ingram,,,luongo.....shamefull
1


tsbains64 added 17:35 - Aug 22

even first half apart from the slip to let them in for their goal but blown away int eh second half Just didnt have the cutting edge in the front and poor poor defence Need huge improvements for the weeks ahead
0


MelakaRanger added 19:11 - Aug 22

Worst team since 1969 campaign
0


helpineedsomebody added 18:18 - Aug 25

frank de boar sacked after 4 games at CP can we beat that record please
BRING IN BIG SAM & LITTLE SAM PLEASE
no excuses this time mark your team, your tactics, 5mths looking at the players, 3 forward players on loan 3rounds in the boxing ring, & every club you have manage ask to leave WHY !!!!!
-6


codge added 18:33 - Aug 25

Shocking goals to concede again complete breakdown when we should of shut up shop.Hope this is not a sign of things to come.
Don't know we're we go from here, trying to stay positive but the one good thing we did start on the front foot this time.PH was having a good game until a stupid dive got him sent of. How did we end up with Moss as a ref again.
6


halftimeorange added 18:56 - Aug 25

Well, I've said it before and I'll say it again - we have no height in attack and all our crosses (bar one which Danny Ings hit on the turn) - and there were loads of them - were easily swatted away by Leicester. It doesn't matter if it's Ings or Austin, they are both essentially poachers, not target men and if Mark Hughes expects goals from either of them in any quantity, he has to play Sam Gallagher. Even if Gallagher stands in the same spot all game he'll still be likely to provide a few knock-downs, certainly more than were managed today. Worryingly, McCarthy seemed to be afflicted by a touch of the malaise that ruined Forster, especially for the second Leicester goal. Hojbjerg spoiled a good return to the starting line-up by foolishly getting himself sent off. Wesley Hoedt showed his ability in the first half and reverted to type in the second by making several errors, one leading to the Leicester opener. He is really a liability and should be replaced by the slower but infinitely more reliable Bednarek. A few other points, several players ran out of steam just after we scored - Ings, Redmond (after a very good first half), Long (who worked his socks off) and Elyounnoussi in particular and Bertrand, despite his well-taken goal, did not appear to shake the team up once Leicester equalised. That was left to Hojbjerg and, in particular, Vestergaard. To me, this looked like Saints best starting line-up and, if so, we are in for a very hard season.
8


SanMarco added 19:01 - Aug 25

Well Hughesey pl 11 W 2 D 3 L 6 9 pts. Not exactly Champions League form is it?

It is going to be a difficult season - too early to panic but I will be doing just that fairly soon. None of our upcoming games look easy now. If we don't win fairly soon 'Hughes Out' will gain momentum very quickly - the goodwill gained by keeping us up will not last long if his record remains worse than that of last season's hapless loser...

7


Flashberryjack added 19:19 - Aug 25

Awful....if you're a swans fan
0


mattthelegend added 19:45 - Aug 25

It’s going to be a long season.........

6


aceofthebase added 20:11 - Aug 25

I am fed up with repeating myself. CEDRIC IS A LIABILITY. Another cross not dealt with, another goal conceded and more important another two and possibly three points lost. Time after time this happens and at the end of the season, we will need every point. If he cannot defend crosses then he is useless and tho' he is a moderate player he hasn't the stature for the job required.

DROP CEDRIC FOR THE WHOLE SEASON.
4


JimmyMeliaPhD added 23:45 - Aug 25

Hmm, not looking good is it? Stupid defensive errors lead directly to the 2 goals. As he often is, Cedric got caught having to deal with an arial ball that the CBs or goalie should have dealt with. Then Vestgergaard seemed just swing at the winning shot, but Maguire should have been closed down long before he shot. You give up those kind of goals, you're going to lose. But the defence looked shaky all afternoon in any case--even McCarthy was problematical. Vestergaard was not great by any means but he had the excuse of having had to cover up for Hoedt's many shortcomings. (Am I alone in wondering why neither the immensely experienced Yoshida nor the immature but immensely talented Bednarek is preferred to Hoedt, the weakest link?) For the rest of the team, I suppose it wasn't too bad given our current level. But goals are obviously going to be just as scarce this yea as last (and therefore points will be scarce too). Only Ings is ever going to score, Redmond had a pretty good game (I never say that!), Elyounoussi was mostly invisible, Lemina would have been my MOM except for Berty's fabulous goal, Hojberg will rue this day, and Long should be put out of his footballing misery as soon as poss.
7


dirk_doone added 23:53 - Aug 25

Ace, most of our squad are an expensive liability. Vestergaard's ability with his feet is even worse than Cedric's ability with his head, and he was responsible for failing to block the 2nd Leicester goal, but as Vestergaard is the latest big buy, he gets cut the slack. Bertrand is probably the only player we've got left who'd be good enough for a top 10 Premier League team. Most of the others wouldn't even shine in the Championship. We are this year's Bolton/Sunderland/Stoke, a club which has been expensively mismanaged, with all of our best players sold and all the money fittered away on medicocre replacements.
6


SaintPaulVW added 06:52 - Aug 26

Strikes me as the same results as last season just slightly more pleasant to watch. Redmond looks better but agree he petered out, Ings is trying too hard. Stephens and Yoshida still making mistakes that cost us. Oh no they didn't play.
7


redwight added 12:11 - Aug 26

Fully agree with points made regarding the defence, and especially Cedric who has never won me over. But for an hour, going forward, that was as good as I've seen since I don't know when. MH cannot be held responsible for the fact that we didn't go in at half time one or two up and played the team that I suspect most of us would want - excepting Hoedt ( there is no realistic replacement for Cadric at present).
5


SaintPaulVW added 13:35 - Aug 26

Strikes me as the same results as last season just slightly more pleasant to watch. Redmond looks better but agree he petered out, Ings is trying too hard. Stephens and Yoshida still making mistakes that cost us. Oh no they didn't play.
2


forallthesaints added 14:38 - Aug 26

A really bright first half with lots of intensity, hussling Leicester into mistakes and creating some good moves which just lacked a finish. Bertrand and Redmond finally seem to be starting to link well down the left. Deserved to lead at half time but the big Leicester centre backs were pretty solid and although there were loads of corners, we never looked like getting on the end of them. Leicester stepped it up in the second half but we still played well and then we scored... a cracking strike from the skipper but then it was a sudden change from attack to nervous jittery defending... AGAIN. The equaliser within five minutes was inevitable. Hojberg was unlucky with the first booking and, I believe with the second. He seemed to genuinely lose balance on his way through but then threw himself down. If it was a dive, the club should ban him for being a prat knowing that Moss is always looking for an excuse. God knows what happened with Maguire's goal. A catalogue of mistakes and bad luck. But did Moss add extra time to the added time after they spent more than a minute celebrating? Did he buggery. He managed to add it at Everton last season but by my watch there should have been another 40 seconds after the free-kick at the end. Two weeks running we've been denied the opportunity to take a corner at the death. Disappointing result but an entertaining game and Saints played some lovely stuff in the first half so not all doom and gloom. But, by Christ, we have to learn how to hold onto a lead.
4


PezzaSaint added 16:46 - Aug 26

Not linked to yesterday's day, but just noticed that Fulham are turning over Burnley. Burnley one point so far this season, against.........,away from home......... and yet after our game against them the consensus was that they had more competitive games than us thus they were sharper.......?! We're in big trouble already!!!!
4


saintjf added 20:28 - Aug 26

Good point PezzaSaint. Burnley are not the side they were last season. The draw with them was not as good as was thought. Like you I am worried. No more so than when finding our attack is made up of Long (who could not hit a cows backside with a banjo) and the immobile and ponderous Austin. It is going to be a long season and my enthusiasm for the new manager is fading fast. I really thought we would beat a Leicester side that has lost its best players. As we know Puel teams are not easy to score against or watch.
1


TimSaint added 22:02 - Aug 26

PEH cost us a point and the chance of potentially 3.
He did get slapped round the face by Pereira earlier in the 2nd half but of course nobody saw that, or a few other Leicester dives, but we get punished.
Great first half just missing a goal. Wish we could play like that for 90 mins
4


SaintBrock added 18:49 - Sep 1

How on earth we manage to turn complete domination of a match into a rearguard action to keep the oppo out beats me. What goes on in players' heads to lost the plot so easily. Still we won and we deserved to win but why make it so hard on ourselves? Is it that our early pressing and high energy attacking just knackers us? If so then either we are collectively not very fit or we need to play at a apace that we can sustain for 94 minutes.

Some good performances today from Hojberg (MotM), Cedric & Bertie who is really looking like the great player of old and a clubman at last. Big shout out too for McCarthy who got most things right when it mattered. Ings disappointed for most of the time who only partly redeemed himself with a goal. His first touch and passing were woeful in the first half, if he is really not fit and in pain then why play him?

As for Austin... time to hang up the boots Charlie you just ain't fast enough or good enough for this league any more. Bugger me we've got Gabbiadini and we don't use him. Sometimes I think Hughes is as and as a frog with prejudices to match.

A footnote to dear old Nick, great to see Yoshida back on the bench and itching for action, he will keep Vestergaard and Hoedt honest and he doesn't panic half as much as those two hapless souls.
4


SaintBrock added 18:56 - Sep 1

WTF are qpr1962 & themodfather and wtf are the doing on our website?
8


Fakaff added 19:17 - Sep 1

Not too bad! But what is happening with this group of players once they go 1 up, is a bit of a mystery to me. PS. That away kit must be the most hideous thing I've ever seen!
0


Fakaff added 19:33 - Sep 1

Not too bad! But what is happening with this group of players once they go 1 up, is a bit of a mystery to me. PS. That away kit must be the most hideous thing I've ever seen!
-1


Fakaff added 19:33 - Sep 1

Not too bad! But what is happening with this group of players once they go 1 up, is a bit of a mystery to me. PS. That away kit must be the most hideous thing I've ever seen!
-1


Private_Partz added 20:59 - Sep 1

0


mattthelegend added 07:35 - Sep 2

Nice to see the effort today, Lemina had a good game. PEH motm for me, I was happy with the way everyone played today, looked like they cared today.Why did Austin take the penalty only been on the pitch for a couple of minutes, could have made the last half hour more relaxing. You can’t hope to go away and not absorb some amount of pressure from the home team, it’s too be expected Saintbrock
5


aceofthebase added 09:00 - Sep 2

It may have been a good idea to have let Redmond take the penalty. A goal scored would have done him a world of good and more to follow. Dreadful spot-kick from Austin, the game should have been wrapped up instead of a nail biter.
2


aceofthebase added 09:02 - Sep 2

Can't understand why Benteke wasn't near Cedric all the time for a free header. Surely Woy missed a trick and hadn't done his homework
-1


PezzaSaint added 09:31 - Sep 2

Quite funny to see comments from Apr1962 and themoffather on a Saints' fans webpage then followed by Saint Brock's normal negativity. Could he be yet another opposition supporter posting on the wrong site? 😜
1


forallthesaints added 11:26 - Sep 2

Very similar to last week except we didn't concede. Saints were brilliant in the first half again but just couldn't get the final ball right. It looked as if Long had missed a sitter but saw the replay and not many would have scored in that situation. Really strong first half and a bright start to the second until we scored. Then the usual jitters set in and although the defending was pretty epic for the most part, my heart can't stand much more of that, thank you very much. And then the second goal - what a moment, the reaction reminded me of when Chaplow scored against Manure in the cup but it was even better because we knew we'd won. Got to say that's about the best away support I can remember in the last two or three years. It's always good but yesterday was immense. I hardly heard the Palace fans throughout the game and yet they're usually the best home crowd. Well done all the lads, although Austin needs a bit of a reminder and not just because of the penalty. If Southgate was watching, I'd say McCarthy has a good shout for the internationals.
2


KriSaint added 18:21 - Sep 2

Good win for Saints.
0


Vega added 12:49 - Sep 7

austin is a dead horse and should be sold or sit on the bench.he is also bound for red cards.from the start i thought that Huges is not the right man to lead saints to a top ten final and still do.why not use gabbiadini?why not buying additional attackers when the window was open?the chances missed in palace were a proof that last season lack of cutting edge remained.
0


Badlands added 18:35 - Sep 15

If Forest are one of the teams to watch out for we have nothing to fear in this league ... apart from ourselves.
Potter had to make changes (and chose to make others) and it showed. Swans played like strangers.
0


Kilkennyjack added 08:48 - Sep 16

Time to get Routs, Dyer, and Narsingh more involved as they aint going anywhere.
0


SaintBrock added 09:47 - Sep 18

Still odds on for relegation in my book. This was Brighton with a team full of Johnny No Names on our turf strolling to a point that should never have been on offer to them.

Hojberg is by far the best striker we have so stick him up front and bring back Romeu to shore up the middle of our defence.

If Danny Ings is worth £20m then I am a flipping Dutchman!

3


SaintBrock added 09:48 - Sep 18

and as for Long............
1


SaintBrock added 09:54 - Sep 18

Rating the referee at 4.7 just shows how stupidly blinkered and mindset some fans are. He kept a very physical game off the boil and tried to play advantage whenever he could and so helped the fast flowing spectacle at least in the first half.

Both pens were stone cold incontestable decisions and he did little wrong to attract the ire of these fans. But that's Saints fans all over, blame anybody but the bloody players and their useless coaching staff and the ref is their easy target.

This monumental cock-up had F all to do with the referee!
2


NewburySaint added 13:30 - Sep 18

Look so much better, and more of a threat, going forward this season.

But....the same problems persist as the last couple of seasons e.g. starting the 2nd half slowly, conceding too many goals not long after scoring ourselves and generally looking "dodgy" at the back when put under sustained pressure, particularly when the ball is lumped into the box.

Vestergaard is a long way off Premier League standard at the moment (Yoshida or and Bednarek anyone?) and Cedric, again, was also terrible but because we don't have anybody putting pressure on his place this may well continue.

The big positive of this season so far is the form of Redmond (and i was 1 of his biggest critics) who has a better attitude and better body language about himself although the 2 things he really needs to bring to the team, crossing & shooting / scoring goals, still prove to be his biggest weaknesses.......at the moment.
1


sidsaint added 19:16 - Sep 18

Would have preferred different substitutions to Ward Prowse and Davis such as Yoshida and Targett and why no Romeu on the bench.
2


Fakaff added 19:51 - Sep 18

That goal from Højbjerg reminded me of some of those goals put away by a sertain lad from Guernsey. But his all round display was even more impressing. Think we're beginning to see the real potential this Dane possesses.
2


Fakaff added 19:52 - Sep 18

That goal from Højbjerg reminded me of some of those goals put away by a sertain lad from Guernsey. But his all round display was even more impressing. Think we're beginning to see the real potential this Dane possesses.
0


Badlands added 22:03 - Sep 18

Little to choose between our cut price beaten up and patch team and the multi-multi Million £ Stoke other than a shocking performance by a linesman.
Allen off side not once but twice!
0


Badlands added 22:03 - Sep 18

Little to choose between our cut price beaten up and patch team and the multi-multi Million £ Stoke other than a shocking performance by a linesman.
Allen off side not once but twice!
0


Croftyjack added 23:26 - Sep 18

Nice little touches, bullied too easy and give the ball away too often.
Same old problem though little creativity and hardly anyone who can score goals...soild enough and bright in parts but scoring will be our downfall unfortunately.
Not mega impressed with any of the new signings yet to be honest either.
0


Geoff78 added 13:01 - Sep 20

Solid performance. At last players seem to know what they are supposed to be doing even though both goals had a scrappy fortunate feel too them - Luongo outjumping their keeper? Although Eze will deservedly get plaudits I thought our defensive play was the most reassuring for a long time. Tackles were won, defenders got tight on the opposition, blocks made and they were fewer occasions when attackers were free in our box. It has to be said Millwall were poor, apart from the threat from 7 foot tall defenders esp in the second half. Wells mobility was great alongside Eze showing promise for the future. And my MoM - surprisingly at I've been disappointed in him before now - is Jordan Cousins, solid defensively and almost scored.
0


DPeps added 18:55 - Sep 22

It's very fitting (and weird) that these match reports are already populated with comments from QPR's relegation season
1


SanMarco added 20:09 - Sep 22

Is that the one where a certain Mark Hughes walked the plank Dpeps?

I can't think of anything positive to say about today so take it away QPR...
3


NorthernSaint85 added 20:54 - Sep 22

My only expectation from today was a better performance than the same fixture last season, in my opinion this was not achieved. We played some alright football at times and got the ball into decent positions out wide on the over lap but that fizzled out with poor final balls. The defence is the main concern. I believe that the current defensive coaching is far worse than it was under Pellegrino. All three goals today were avoidable. The first was just ridiculous. The second is a good header from Matip but the marking is awful from set pieces and the third was terrible communication in the offside line and then a lack of desire to win the rebound. Stoke’s defensive record under Hughes last season was terrible and we don’t look much better.
9


SaintPaulVW added 21:53 - Sep 22

Hoedt is no step up on Yoshi or Stephens, Lemina is a flat track bully, Targett deserves more time, Long can run all day but a goal a season just isn't good enough, Redmond and Bertrand looked good but Redmond can only do 45 minutes. Romeu needs to come in for Lemina. We had a few good chances but just like the last 2 years we can't convert, thank god Liverpool sat back in the second half or it would have been 6-0
11


JimmyMeliaPhD added 02:52 - Sep 23

Bednarek was the only player (apart from the goalie) who didn't completely suck. Shane Long, bless, he just shouldn't be on a premiership team. All those who like him, tell me, what has he done for us lately (i.e. in the 60 appearances)? Starting him and Redmond as front two just says, we surrender, we know we'll never score against you. Totally rubbish put up front by Hughes, and so we look at the defence...oh no, look away. More total rubbish. We shouldn't necessarily expect to get points at Anfield, especialy when Liverpool are flyinf, but we should expect better team selction and tactics, and better individual performances. This was just an insult.
10


vanmans added 08:59 - Sep 23

Hughes, Krueger and Reed out... bring back Nicola Cortese and Ronald Koeman.
5


aceofthebase added 11:58 - Sep 23

I haven't seen Sam G play for a while(but I haven't seen any of our forwards play much either) but surely he must be given a chance. If we wait until we are well up in the league and four goals up in a match he will never get the chance. Meanwhile, we have little punch in attack. He was not even on the bench yesterday.
0


NorthernSaint85 added 12:49 - Sep 23

With the tactics yesterday we might as well have played Gallagher up the top. I don’t wish to knock Shane Long as he gets enough stick and he has some good attributes. I can’t think of a single player who is better than him at imitating a dog chasing a tennis ball but he was never gonna stand a chance at holding it up yesterday against Van Dijk and Matip.
3


mikesaint added 13:44 - Sep 23

Big mistake letting Dusan Tadic go we now don't have anyone who can create anything. Its going to be a long season. The January window cant come quick enough we need some good recplacements.
4


petedoors1 added 16:34 - Sep 23

Its going to be a long season
4


SaintBrock added 09:47 - Sep 24

Waste of time commenting, nothing has changed. We are well on course to be bottom of the league at Christmas. No way back this time chaps, we are appalling.
1


reggie_rocket added 15:54 - Sep 25

Not a report, an observation. Rathbone and Camps were the only established midfielders in the starting 11. Once Rathbone went off (63rd minute) Camps was the only experienced midfielder left. Most of us do not rate Hendo as a midfielder and Adshead has a lot to learn. An aggressive Perkins coming on, rather than Adshead, would have taken a lot of the weight off Camps and possibly prevented his meltdown in the last quarter of the game. I know that we scored after the substitutions but I think Sunderland could have had more, they took their foot off the pedal. Hilly would have his reasons for what he did, but I think his decisions have contributed to the dreadful assessment that we have given Callum.
0


bigrob68 added 17:28 - Sep 29

useless defence and Charlie what's the point Austin.
7


NorthernSaint85 added 17:30 - Sep 29

For parts of the second half we were on top and should have taken the game by the scruff of the neck however we lack quality. Some of the football today reminded me of last season where we were effective at keeping possession but couldn’t do anything with it. However last season we could defend, I wouldn’t mind knowing what actually takes place in the defensive sessions in training and why Yoshi can’t get a look in is a mystery.
8


I_would added 18:03 - Sep 29

Where was JWP when you need him?
-8


helpineedsomebody added 18:46 - Sep 29

scored one away goal this season nothing needs to be said .
5


codge added 18:49 - Sep 29

What is the point of Charlie Austin being on the pitch anymore, totally wasted space today. And our two center backs are dreadful, Armstrong, lemina, nowhere good enough on this showing.Hard to find anyone other than Hojbjerg who was not brilliant today by any means but at least he makes an effort for 90 minutes.l starting to think Hughes as lost the plot somewhere along the way, his choices to start this game especially the choice of center backs is baffling.
14


Ali_Diarea added 19:03 - Sep 29

We won two nil at Selhurst Park??
0


Ali_Diarea added 19:09 - Sep 29

Apart from Ings, the summer signings have made no impact at all on a team that was lucky not to be relegated. The usual narrative of us having a good squad but poor manager surely has to stop now? We have an average squad, shite defenders and lack any creative spark. Coupled with a very average manager it’s gonna be a long season with more lows than highs.
16


SaintBrock added 19:25 - Sep 29

Just when you start to think that it can't get any worse, Saints excel themselves with the mother of all F ups!

They were tactically and strategically inept; even when they had the ball the players seemed to have no idea what to do with it, what the plan was or how to execute it. Our passing was abysmal and our so called "strike force" must be the worst in the PL, no pace, no movement, no invention and no idea what the goal is there for. Ings? Paah!

Honestly all this cannot be down to just the players, all the shortcomings and failures must be laid at Hughes' door and his staff. The player's aren't fit either so what an indictment of this current coaching set up. There is only one way-out of this mess but of course the running of our club is so rotten to the core that nobody will have the bottle to sort it out.

Reed remains the biggest obstacle to progress but he won't budge voluntarily and no way is Kreuger going to sack his tail gunner. The appointment of Hughes, an oft failed journeyman manager and his inadequate staff is proving to be the final act of folly and the killer blow to all hope of Saints surviving as a PL club.

I predicted on Day 1 of the season that we would be 20th at Christmas, on today's evidence that was being generous.
10


SaintBrock added 19:30 - Sep 29

Indeed Codge, what is the point of Charlie Austin. I doubt he'd even get a game for Poole Town nowadays. He isn't fit, he is slow to react mentally to what is happening on the pitch and is clueless on how to play with other team mates around him. He really is becoming a liability. Gabbi must be very poor?

12


Yorkshire_Dale added 20:15 - Sep 29

The only thing we got out of today was September Goal of the Month....we deserved nowt more. Our defence was poor but our attack was also well off the mark......Hilly says Pompey were superior "in all depts" so there you have it.

Kudos to Pompey fans who kept singing throughout.......
1


SaintBrock added 20:17 - Sep 29

Indeed Codge, what is the point of Charlie Austin. I doubt he'd even get a game for Poole Town nowadays. He isn't fit, he is slow to react mentally to what is happening on the pitch and is clueless on how to play with other team mates around him. He really is becoming a liability. Gabbi must be very poor?

0


NorthernSaint85 added 20:18 - Sep 29

Austin was awful today. He’s almost the polar opposite of Shane Long in that he doesn’t do anything but score and he hasn’t done that for 12? games in the league now. Gabbi and Ings should be the first choice strike partnership and Gallagher should at least be given a chance just to see if he can cut it.
The service that the strikers receive has been inadequate for such a long time though it must be said. Redmond has recently begun to show intent at least but makes amateurish mistakes regularly. Elyounossi looks okay and hopefully will improve but should never take a corner again for us.
12


DPeps added 20:18 - Sep 29

Some fans on this site (Nick included) will say we've got a good squad, a decent manager, and that we need to stick with the team. The first two points are highly debatable. Of course, it's a given that as fans we'll support the club pretty much unconditionally (as in, I'm not going to start supporting Man U), but I'm increasingly fed up with many of the players in this team and I feel no attachment to Hughes, who I've always felt in a bogstandard manager.

Sorry, that's all a bit negative. I only wish I could've sworn a bit more
11


DPeps added 20:21 - Sep 29

*felt is
'felt in' would be weird
-1


SanMarco added 23:22 - Sep 29

Pellegrino got 17 pts from his first 15 matches, Hughes has 13 from the same number. Hughes has less per match than MP had when he was finally sacked. Puel was sacked for being boring even though he got a lot more points. All in all it would look as if the managers are getting worse or the team is or both. The constant in all of this are the people that appoint the managers and buy/sell the players. We obviously have a lot of problems and for over two years now the decision-makers at the club have fiddled while the Saints have burned. Do we look any more like scoring or any less like conceding this season?? NO.
11


JimmyMeliaPhD added 23:38 - Sep 29

Well that was awfully disappointing. We played about as well as we can for most of the game, but we didn;t score (yet agian) and then had absolutely no answer to Wolves' substitutions.

Our squad still lacks:
# striking power
# creative midfield influnece
# adequate central defenders.

Hughes says he might have to change things. It's good that he sees the need (CP and MP never did until it was too late). But the problem is that he hasn't got the resources to change things much for the better.

# I'd start Bednarek and Yoshida for the forseeable, but I admit that's not a Premier central duo...but nor are Vestergaard and Hoedt.

# also I'd start Ings w/ Gabbiadini, with Gallagher on the bench, but Hughes seems to have more faith in Austin (who was awful today) and Long (who's pretty much always awful).

# We need a midfielder who is creative. There simply isn't anyone in the squad that fits the bill. So if he changes things around Hughes will probably go back to Davis and/or JWP....not a clever move.

# Redmond is playing better this year, but he's still mostly ineffectual. Elyounoussi doesn't seem to have a role and his most obvious strengths are defensive rather than attacking. Armstrong also seems to have been a black box error...and should in any case be dropped straight away for the schoolboy defensive effort on Wolves' 2nd goal.

Wolves are a team that's much superior to Saints right now and, even though they didn't play great today, they put us to the sword when they felt it was time. We had no reply.

It's hard to disagree with Ali Diarea....<<We have an average squad, shite defenders and lack any creative spark. Coupled with a very average manager>>
12


dirk_doone added 23:53 - Sep 29

If Hughes persists with Vestergaard and Hoedt as our centre back pairing, we will be relegated.

Yoshida and Bednerek are clearly not in the same class as Fonte and van Dijk but they are the best we've got left, not a pair of donkeys like Vestergaard and Hoedt, and our only hope of staying up.
8


helpineedsomebody added 08:52 - Sep 30

sorry i was watching the ryder cup, in my haste forgot the palace game
must not get too far ahead of myself .
i just do not know what this manager is up to plenty of wind / no substance all we have as fans is an opinion,
but where on earth is he going to take this club before some body makes a decision for him you cannot wait until xmas if you do its just panic stations
0


aceofthebase added 10:48 - Sep 30

Just who has given our central defenders and Austin a rating above 1 baffles me
2


aceofthebase added 10:48 - Sep 30

Just who has given our central defenders and Austin a rating above 1 baffles me
1


SaintBrock added 13:09 - Sep 30

If we accept that of the 38 league games we must play, 12 are unwinnable, that leaves 26 games from which we can get points and a maximum of 78. To be certain of escaping relegation we need 40, in other words we need to collect 1.538 pts per game from the games where we have chance of getting points.

We have now played 7 of which one was unwinnable, leaving 6 so we should have had 9.23 pts or 9 pts to be certain to avoid the drop.

We have 5!

If this isn't a crises, then what is? It will take more than one win to get us back on track.
5


SaintPaulVW added 14:02 - Sep 30

The centerbacks are still a problem area. Vestergaard goes to ground too easily, Hoedt, who can make a cracking pass is also prone to errors just like Yoshida. So far, I see no step up in quality from Yoshi and Stephens at CB. If this is the future pairing that Nick is hoping then we have a problem. Not too sure what Romeu has done wrong but I'd start playing him to give a bit more cover and hopefully build a bit of confidence. Not sure Lemina or Ely are doing enough to earn a regular place at the moment.

Attack wise, contrast the first Wolves goal with our stuttering efforts anywhere near goal. Redmond is better at driving forward at goal this year but seems to lose confidence when he gets there. Our players seem to need too many extra touches to get a shot on target. I'm not despondent yet but I'm not seeing too much different from last year although it does look better.
5


underweststand added 15:52 - Oct 1

Took the game to Wolves after their initial 10 minute charge , we looked good (at times) but it didn't get a result as happened in Palace game.

MH has still not found the right combination for the backline...but the strikers are the same bunch (on or off the bench) but none of them scored - yet again. we must move on. NEXT PLEASE...Oh No that's Chelsea!
0


Geoff78 added 20:01 - Oct 6

Wells worked hard up front, but midfield too often unable to stop or slow Derby attacks. Fortunately Derby weren't that good. Not sure about Cameron in spite of the goal and don't understand why Hemed gets the nod ahead of Smith. Referee poor and regularly conned by Derby nudges and falling over. But tricky game for Rs who came through pretty well.
0


I_would added 16:33 - Oct 7

If only JWP was out there, things could have been so different.
-8


SaintPaulVW added 17:23 - Oct 7

There were patches where we looked okay. We had 3 good chances. That attacking move in the second half summed us though, we get a break, the ball isn't passed to the attacking player running forward into space but gets taken on and finds Lemina. Who then fails to cross it in passes it back eventually into our own half. The attack fizzles out. Are we a side that counterattacks at pace or one that tries to dominate possession? Not convinced you can be both.

Usual defensive howlers, not convinced we have the CB personnel to say that any 2 are better than the other 3.

Redmond looks good but fades still. Lemina has so much skill but doesn't seem to do very much that is effective. Can't expect Ings to score every game and we can't defend a one-nil anyway.

Prettier than last year but we are heading for the same trouble unless we can start getting some points on the board.
6


mattthelegend added 17:42 - Oct 7

Feel sorry for Bednarek who I though had a decent game, sloppy play by PEH led to the first goal , when we should ah e been 1 nil up! Didn’t really see what happened on the second goal. 3rd goal all a bit irrelevant. Looked good in patches especially after first 20 minutes when we were so negative, once we started pressing we grew into the game until sloppy play by PEH. Always felt Chelsea were playing with us and if we had scored would have upped the anti, still we were playing a very good Chelsea/Hazard team. Hopefully 3 teams worse than us.
6


helpineedsomebody added 18:03 - Oct 7

NO INVESTMENT SINCE 1885
20 MATCHES WITH THIS MANAGER & WHERE ARE WE GOING JUST AS WELL KEPT THE LAST MANAGER HE NEVER TOLD LIES
1ST HALF FORWARDS ALL DEFENDING
PHB LOOSES THE BALL JUST OUTSIDE THE BOX RESULT A GOAL & EVEN BEFORE THE BALL HITS THE NET HE PUTS HIS HAND ON HIS HEAD KNOWING WHAT HE HAS DONE
2ND HALF PUSHES THE SAME PRAT ON THE LEFT WING & THEN PUSHES LIMEY ON THE RIGHT WING LEAVING ORIAL CENTRE MIDFIELD WHO BY THE WAY IS THE ONLY MIDFIELDER WE HAVE THAT CAN PASS THE BALL FORWARD & FINE OUR PLAYERS
FOR CHELSEA JUST A TRAINING SESSION
ITS AS BAD AS ITS EVER BEEN FACT

7


DPeps added 18:10 - Oct 7

Chelsea are a million times better than us, and the result was never in doubt.
There were some positives:
- we created chances, and should have scored two goals
- Gabbi was effective

I suspect there will be the same debates about Hoedt and Redmond.
Hoedt looked better than usual, but probably should've had a penalty awarded against him in the first half and, arguably, didn't give PEH the best ball to deal with for Chelsea's first goal.
Redmond did his usual thing of running well with the ball, and then failing to make any decision with the pass.
6


NorthernSaint85 added 20:09 - Oct 7

Cabbage anyone?
0


SanMarco added 22:57 - Oct 7

We have 5 third choice centre-backs at the club and no decent attacking midfielder. Even our saviour on the goalscoring front missed an open goal at a vital time. We really are in a mess and is Hughes actually showing any signs at all of getting to grips with it? Bringing Long on to join fellow serial non-scorer Redmond was interesting. 2 goals in a few minutes to rescue a point - they've barely got that between them in the last 18 MONTHS. Another long and troubled season ahead and this one may well end in the drop.
8


codge added 00:06 - Oct 8

Plain and simple were just not good enough to beat the top teams.We looked awful in the first half, it looked like Liverpool all over again,we literally looked like we ran up the white flag as soon as the game started.I believe some players are taking money under false pretenses with them actually thinking they are being paid as footballers.This going to be a very long season and unless something changes soon we are heading for the Championship.
6


10i added 06:31 - Oct 8

This is where a by some so called "decent start to Season" brings you - after reaching a great 5 Points in 5 games. Without playing one of the top 6. Of Course your average will fall when you Play them. So well, to me it seemed quite simple to understand that you Need more than one Point per game not involving the top 6. Now there's 5 from 8, who would have thought? Not a so decent start?

Today we started with three at the back - with Bedfnarek, the only one playing without making a mistake, gets taken off at half time. Yoshida had his usual lapses (not punished, but two horrendous mistakes) and Hoedt... Putting PEH under pressure with the pass was okay for me, a midfielder should be able to cope with that. The real error was him not getting back into his Position but attacking the ball, which wasn't his Job, so Hazard was as free as he ever could be with Hoedt completely out of position. And the third showed that this can't be the partnership for us. But... I fear we still haven't got one on our books.

Hughes... The german commentators summed it up this way: "Southampton managed to stay in the league, but not thanks to Hughes or great Performances or making many points, but by Swansea imploding. Hughes managed just over a Point per game and for that Performance he was rewarded with a three years contract. It seems you don't have to do a lot to get such a contract there."
6


SaintBrock added 09:39 - Oct 8

Lots of us expected 0-3 and 0-3 it was. There were some bright spots, Yoshida, Romeu & Gabbiadini showing how narrow minded Hughes has been about team election. All three played superbly and deserve to start every week. As for 3 at the back, just forget it. When we reverted to 4-4-2 at least we became more of an attacking threat.

Ings & Bertrand should be shot for missing sitters, in fact Bertrand was a liability all day, all over the place and nowhere to be seen when the second goal was set up from his position but with the man totally unmarked
3


Jesus_02 added 10:04 - Oct 8

A sad indictment on what the Premieship has become.

Saints seemed to set their stool out to not loose too badly. A number player who represent the city (but would not have even heard of it before they signed) and who get payed more than twice the national average wage every week stood an watched while the majority of people in atrtendance sat and watched even more highly played players run rings round them.

The referee booked 6 saints players despite virtually no physicality to ensure that the more highly valued assest where protected.

Eveyone went home, some to London.
2


dirk_doone added 11:23 - Oct 8

For those who bleat, it's not fair, we can't hope to compete with the top 6, I'd like to point out that one of the top 6 is Bournemouth but you are probably right theirs is a far better run club than ours with a better manager and owners.

Some results so far this season:

West Ham 3 Man Utd 1

West Ham 0 Chelsea 0

Wolves 1 Man City 1

Man Utd 1 Wolves 1

Watford 2 Spurs 1

We used to get results like that but everyone at the club now seems to have given up and settled for 2nd best: 17th place if we're lucky and relegation if we're not.

Make no mistake about it, our club is currently poorly owned and managed but it has the potential to do so much better with better management and recruitment.

Right now, the club is full of very expensive dead wood, from top to bottom, including Kat, Gao, Les, Ralph, Hughes and most of the players. The board have got rid of the people who really brought us success, the managers, coaches, scouts and players, and tried to claim the credit for themselves.

As for player performance, the worst performers seem to be the ones we've spent a fortune on in the last 2 or 3 years. About 100 million has been wasted on players who aren't up to Premier League standard, often because they are simply too slow to play at this level. That is pathetically incompetent recruitment. That's why we can't compete with the top teams like we used to 3 ago.

Almost exactly 3 years ago we beat a Chelsea side with Hazard et al 3-1 at Stamford Bridge. Since then our board has seen off the manager we had then, Koeman, and most of the players who played that day, Pelle, Fonte, Tadic, Wanyama, van Dijk, Mane etc, and wasted any money we got for them on duds like Pellegrino, Hughes, Carrillo, Boufal, Elyounoussi, Hoedt and Vestergaard.




6


Jesus_02 added 12:13 - Oct 8

A sad indictment on what the Premieship has become.

Saints seemed to set their stool out to not loose too badly. A number player who represent the city (but would not have even heard of it before they signed) and who get payed more than twice the national average wage every week stood an watched while the majority of people in atrtendance sat and watched even more highly played players run rings round them.

The referee booked 6 saints players despite virtually no physicality to ensure that the more highly valued assest where protected.

Eveyone went home, some to London.
1


Pecky3 added 14:05 - Oct 8

I know we were playing Chelsea and they were very good but Saints looked so much slower than Chelsea. I do not think there is enough talent in this side to survive this year in the Premier League. I have seen 3 home games and in each one Saints seem to lack the ability toactually win games. So it may have been Chelsea but surely the warning signs are obvious - too slow, lack of commitment etc etc!!
3


nataliajohnson added 11:42 - Oct 11

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0


codge added 17:26 - Oct 20

Showed some improvement but same problem in front of goal we are creating the chances but can't put the ball in the net. Charlie Austin still not getting the job done I'm afraid needs to stay on the bench and come on later in the game.Hojbjerg had a strong game again as did Redmond,the defense looked a lot better than it has for a while.All in all better but still room for improvement.
5


SaintBrock added 18:20 - Oct 20

A very dull affair from two plodding sides that hadn't got a clue on unlocking defences between them. We were slightly the better side but being the better of two poor sides is hardly uplifting. I suppose we'd claim a post gained but we need wins from now on to survive. Problem is we seem not to know how to score goals or win matches

Austin & Long looked spent forces today. If we have an opt out clause on Ings I'd use it if I were the Saints recruitment people.
3


SanMarco added 20:55 - Oct 20

To be fair it was a good point against a team who have made an excellent start to the season. We were better in defence than usual but were not good enough to get the 1-0 win that a decent side would have got from it. Big match next week.
5


SaintPaulVW added 07:49 - Oct 21

A bit better but against toothless opposition that isn't much comfort. I think we will be okay this season but we seem to be in death spiral that eventually ends in relegation a few seasons later. We need to break it.
2


smegma added 08:17 - Oct 21

Joe Lumley. 10 games, 6 clean sheets. Just saying like.
0


dirk_doone added 09:41 - Oct 21

Avoiding defeat at Bournemouth was a good result for us. One big change in the centre of our defence was the key to that.

I know he has been written off by many but the man of the match for me and many of the media pundits was Jack Stephens. He's always looked a very promising footballer but he's finally developing into a fine centre back, which is something that takes time. Remember John Stones in his first season at Man City? I'd definitely pick Stephens ahead of Vestergaard and I hope that Hughes continues to do that.
1


helpineedsomebody added 10:34 - Oct 21

point away from home but only had42% of the play that says it all
3 southampton employees relieved
0


KriSaint added 14:58 - Oct 21

Good point. Should probably have been 3, really.

My player ratings:
Best player Hoejbjerg: 8
Worst player Armstrong: 4
Second worst player(s) Elyounoussi and Gabbi: 5
Rest of the team: 7
1


forallthesaints added 17:49 - Oct 21

It's looking better, apart from the terror that strikes when the goal comes into view. I must admit I was surprised to see Stephens and Hoedt paired again as they have been accident prone when playing together. I was very happy to see they both played very well - solid and calm. When Saints went for it, we had Bournemouth on the back foot but we don't seem to be able to play the ball forward quickly enough. And that starts at the very back. McCarthy's distribution is slow but mainly because outfield players don't give him enough options in space to rid himself of the ball. I'm afraid Austin is a busted flush - I really don't see how he beats Gabbi or Long into the starting 11. He was simply awful. When Long and Gabbi came on they injected pace and threat. Long won some good headers and if the excellent cross from Redmond at the end had been an inch lower, he'd have scored and won us the game - Austin wouldn't have even been there. Redmond is playing really well these days but he and Bertrand could still connect better down the left. Elyounoussi shows moments but seems not to have the nerve to run at players. Hojbjerg was strong again and is the hub of midfield these days. Lemina is wasteful in possession - his song which ends "never gives the ball away" is hugely inaccurate! Not the best of games but with a bit more luck and a goalkeeper not making several good saves, we could have come away with the points
1


Geoff78 added 23:01 - Oct 23

Excellent! Organised, strong and committed. From the Loft difficult to see exactly what was going on, but looked a bit lucky to survive early part of second half and Lumley didn't look convincing. In general defence was good. When losing possession we are quick to get 6 (back 4 + Cameron, Luongo) set up across area, with Pav dropping into right back creating a solid wall.

And at last starting to score goals. Long may it continue.

Lynch, Luongo and Pav were outstanding. I wanted to say one of them was MOTM, but Eze's incisive passing and vision were superb. He set up 2 goals, and Wednesday couldn't handle him.
0


Badlands added 23:22 - Oct 23

Another get out of jail performance by individuals rather than the system.
0


smegma added 23:58 - Oct 23

Just thought I'd mention it's 7 clean sheets in 11.
0


Lazarus added 09:01 - Oct 24

For all their possession, Wednesday didn't really threaten. Plan A in the first half seemed to be knock it around at the back, knock it around a bit more, use the wings. Plan B (second half) was similar to plan A, but try to get it through the middle. There was no plan C. They looked quite good - sharp, fit, skilful - until our opening goal, and then it became apparent that they didn't really have any more ideas.

That was the best QPR performance I've seen this season. Sure, there were a few scares and "under the cosh" moments, but we defended well and were swift to attack, which was so good to see after a couple of seasons of trying to play through the opposition and finding 11 men in the penalty area by the time we get there.

Well done lads! I'm looking forward to you repeating the performance against Villa on Friday. Please don't disappoint me! :-)
0


smegma added 22:23 - Oct 26

8 clean sheets in 12 games. Just saying like..........
1


smegma added 23:14 - Oct 26

8 clean sheets in 12 games. Just saying like..........
1


nightwish added 11:35 - Oct 27

Just loved the fist pump by Rangel near the end of the game when he did a wonderful tackle on a Villa player in our penalty area.Just sums up the great spirit in the QPR team at the moment.Take that Villa with all your money and financial clout because we are QPR
1


I_would added 17:25 - Oct 27

Tosh
2


codge added 18:03 - Oct 27

Yet again no goals we are awful in front of goal,luckily we were playing the bottom team and they looked worse than us which is not saying to much.As soon as l saw Austin up front again l thought were playing with ten men,sorry but his game has left him way behind and provides hardly any offense anymore.Some of the play was OK but if we only had to play from our 18 yard line to there's we would be OK but when we get in the penalty area we are lost.
10


Badlands added 20:05 - Oct 27

James has been a lot of people's MoM tonight butler me he chose to go himself too often when a simple pass would have given other players a better chance to score.
0


SaintBrock added 21:13 - Oct 27

Our lads played quite well for once, no lack of effort so it has to be the manager. There are some talented guys in our squad so get a new manager in before they all end up as pitiful as Long and Austin.

JWP on for Romeu, you gotta be kidding. Nightmare on Britannia Road.
10


sidsaint added 21:47 - Oct 27

if only games were won on statistics. Unfortunately they are won by scoring goals.
5


SanMarco added 21:58 - Oct 27

Can't think that of even many of our statistics that would point to us winning games sid.

Elyounoussi seems to be joining Austin, Long and Redmond in the non-goalscoring club. It all lookd pretty dire to me - three worse teams than us? Hopefully, but that is the only hope as the decision-makers at our club are totally useless. Remember that we went into the last few mins of the transfer-window without even Ings. He will be our top-scorer and may even break double figures. God only knows where the other goals are coming from. Our rapid decline was there for all to see out there today.
8


KriSaint added 22:24 - Oct 27

Lack of cutting edge yet again. Good defensive display the only encouraging thing. Back to back clean sheets don´t happen too often. Well done in that department.
Why are we so toothless in attack?? I hope Sam McQueen starts against Leicester next week in the League Cup 1/8 final, because we simply have to try something new...
4


dirk_doone added 23:19 - Oct 27

One bright spot was the performance of Jack Stephens. When he plays we usually keep a clean sheet. Our academy seems to have produced another good player, although the credit for that must go to scouts and coaches who have since been replaced.
5


dirk_doone added 23:24 - Oct 27

KriSaint, McQueen might be a good call. Pity we can't get Hesketh back as well. The players we have spent tens of millions of pounds on lately, like Carrillo and Vestergaard, are utter tosh and, as Stephens has shown recently, we'd probably be better off giving our academy products games.
5


Stevebish added 23:42 - Oct 27

So do we think the problem is our players are not good enough or is it the formation the manager has them playing
3


cocklebreath added 08:12 - Oct 28

Both
4


the_saint added 08:59 - Oct 28

Look on the bright side nobody else are going to bid for our players well non of the top clubs anyway, did hear from a reliable source we are now tendering to the championship for our players and have informed league 1 not to worry their we be enough crap left over for you. On the positive side toilet cues are going down at half time
4


TimSaint added 10:20 - Oct 28

KriSaint and Dirk - sorry to be the bearer of bad news, but Sam McQueen is currently on loan at Middlesbrough, so is not available for selection at Leicester on Tuesday night.
3


Ali_Diarea added 10:21 - Oct 28

As Jermaine Jeans said on MOTD, the players look desperate, pick the wrong pass and lack quality in the final third. That’s not the manager’s fault, we have crap players who lack the killer instinct. I can’t even be bothered to rant anymore, can someone else finish this off for me please...
9


the_saint added 11:11 - Oct 28

Sure Ali we are sh#t
1


the_saint added 11:15 - Oct 28

But I would add that Hughes is to blame as well he’s the one on the training ground and responsible for fitness
3


SanMarco added 12:20 - Oct 28

I think the stats comparing Hughes with the previous manager are interesting. Assuming there is no sensation next Saturday MH will have had half a season in charge and gained 15 points. Even my maths says that 30 for a whole season.

MH can only play with what he has available but if the previous two managers were sacked because they weren't getting enough out of the strong (still labelled such in some but ever-decreasing circles) squad then where does that leave us? The people responsible for the quality of the squad also appoint the manager. It is time that they took some responsibility - resignations higher up in the club structure are now necessary (have been for some while but yesterday was a new low for me). Where that leaves MH I don't know but if he plays Long again...
9


Pecky3 added 14:54 - Oct 28

Dreadful game. We couldnt score if we played till midnight! This team is set for the Championship next season I regret to say. Change of manager needed immediately!
6


vanmans added 17:29 - Oct 28

Individual greed and lack of ambition has killed this club. LES REED AND RALPH KRUEGER MUST GO NOW.
5


fubsy added 17:44 - Oct 28

Constantly changing the manager has got us into this mess. Puel and Pellegrino didn't have time to turn things round. Sacking Puel (in hindsight was a big mistake). We need some continuity and 2 new strikers - Long and Austin need replacing straight away. Promote 2 of our young strikers and give them a run. After all they can't score less........

One little whinge about visiting teams - I am sick to death of teams parking the bus. They show no inclination to make a game, they shut up shop and hope to nick a goal... it's boring.
5


SaintBrock added 18:46 - Oct 28

If it helps, we noticed that Les Reed was sat on the end of the third row of the Directors' box and not alongside Kreuger at the front. This has to mean something, so watch this space as they say.....
4


KriSaint added 02:32 - Oct 29

Can someone follow me when I say, that it is as if our current team has no soul/nerve/edge....?
When I try to analyze why I feel this way (and I have not felt like this before over longer periodes in my 38 years as a Saints fan), I end up concluding that THIS (=loss of "team soul") is what can happen when many CRUCIAL players (AND MANAGERS) leave a club within short time....., (all the while a f*****g chinese business man (without a clue about football), and who has never heard about nice things like "the Southampton way" (= 50 % of the players in the first team are hopefully homegrown) buys the main seat at the table at the club :( ….).

Our board carries by far most of the blame for our boring, lacklustre, soulless
I am not sure what to say next….. (about what we fans can do about this) other than pray for a miracle that makes us win the league Cup = the short cut to shake the club wildly in a positive direction. Man, that would wake everybody associated with the club up from this dire 2½ season period.
1


SWANSEYE added 07:13 - Oct 29

Kristoffer Nordfeldt 6
Kyle Naughton 6.5
Mike Van Der Hoorn 8.0
Joe Rodon 7
Martin Olsson 6
Jay Fulton 6.5
Matt Grimes 7.5
Connor Roberts 6.5
Bersant Celina 7.5
Daniel James 8..5
Oliver McBurnie 8.0
Leroy Fer 6.5
Cameron Carter-Vickers 6
Declan John 5
0


TimSaint added 11:46 - Oct 29

KriSaint - we nearly won the league cup under Puel. It created a slight feel good factor at the time, especially after the Anfield win, plus a massive scramble for tickets. But then it was back to the boring brand of don't lose, but maybe see if we can nick it if we can be bothered football, that CP was ultimately sacked for and it was back to square one.

I don't know what the answer is, but the black box has long gone and there are a few players and board members who should have gone with it. Our scoring record must be the worst ever now, especially at home, and that is now 5 games in a row in the league without a goal. It reminds me of our time under Puel and Pell, especially when Reed took the first bid of £30m for our winger Mane, who has now scored 40 goals in 2 and a bit seasons at Liverpool - which is more than we managed in the whole league season last season !!
2


rochdaleriddler added 17:24 - Nov 3

Proper team performance
0


vanmans added 17:49 - Nov 4

Disgusting. SACK THE BOARD.
2


vanmans added 17:50 - Nov 4

Disgusting. SACK THE BOARD.
-1


codge added 17:51 - Nov 4

What can be said about this game other than it was lost in the first 20 minutes.We were all at sea no cohesion in midfield JWP a wasted space in his position.Hard to find any positives really but l think Obafemi should get a start as he looked lively and surely has to be an upgrade on long who has to be benched now.Hughes to be fired but it probably won't happen though,really can't find anything to suggest we will get any better but trying to look on the bright side but really hard.
7


DPeps added 17:55 - Nov 4

This game should have been a free pass for Hughes. No-one expected a saints win, all that was needed was a competent display. Instead, it was an embarrassing mess. That will be City's easiest game all season.

The issues at the club go far beyond Hughes, but he is not adding anything positive at the moment. I have no idea who would want to take on the job, but there has to be better, doesn't there?!

Also, the club should reimburse the fans who went all that way today. I seem to remember that Sunderland did when we tonked them under RK. Happy days...
7


vanmans added 17:56 - Nov 4

Why did he play JWP when he plays its like playing with 10 MEN. Second rate in every department. GOING DOWN.
4


SaintPaulVW added 17:58 - Nov 4

I said death spiral a few weeks ago and we needed a change. Not sure I've changed my mind. Struggling to see any real progress under Hughes and aside from Ings the new additions by their absence seem to be 50 million down the plughole. Wny don't we just pay the asking price for proven players, particularly when we just escaped relegation and needed a solid season.
5


SaintPaulVW added 18:18 - Nov 4

I said death spiral a few weeks ago and we needed a change. Not sure I've changed my mind. Struggling to see any real progress under Hughes and aside from Ings the new additions by their absence seem to be 50 million down the plughole. Wny don't we just pay the asking price for proven players, particularly when we just escaped relegation and needed a solid season.
0


SanMarco added 18:29 - Nov 4

A year ago our most reviled manager since Branfoot came within a few seconds of a draw on this ground. Pep moaned about our tactics making it hard for him. MH is more his type of man - pick a starting XI with JWP, Redmond and Long and then look surprised when we get hammered.

Of course the sad and blindingly obvious decline in the quality of our playing resources is not the fault of MH but I really don't know what he was trying to do today. Did he really think the three above mentioned were going to take apart City on the break and also defend ruggedly?

SaintPaulVW hits the nail on the head with his plughole - we are even weaker now than we were last season, in fact we are probably weaker than at any time since we came up. Our first game of all when we came up was an entertaining 3-2 defeat at today's opponents, who were champions then too. That starting XI probably had Kelvin Davis and Danny Fox in it but I would swap it for this lot in a second.
8


the_saint added 19:14 - Nov 4

Our problem is not just Hughes it’s more the poor recruitment over the last few seasons nothing will save us this year until the owners get their heads out of the sand and sack the man who is responsible that man is les Reed poor managerial appointments and poor recruitment and a failing academy
9


halftimeorange added 19:38 - Nov 4

This result says as much about Man City than Saints. They have a team which includes five world class players plus several very good ones who collectively are going to turn over almost every other side they meet in the EPL and, in consequence, devalues the league for the average club supporter. It is too one-sided to be entertaining. As for the Saints well, we have a young team with a few reasonable players and a number who simply haven't the talent to compete at this level. Is MH getting the best out of them - he probably doesn't have that skill to blend them as closely as possible - so, no but even if he did, we would still have lost and they did try. Got to take it on the chin, we are failing. Whether that can be turned around to survive this season is open to debate. This game reflects the investment of the respective clubs.
0


I_would added 23:26 - Nov 4

Tosh
1


Wembley76 added 10:24 - Nov 5

Truth be told, a defeat was always "on the cards" here. Poor start undid the hope and conceding at very end of each half just made the result a little more embarrassing
0


I_would added 17:20 - Nov 10

Hughes played Prowse today so therefore he has to go as he can't pick the right team even without Les's teamsheet. Prowse cost us 2 points today. Anyone who rates Prowse knows jack.
8


codge added 17:53 - Nov 10

Not much to add totally agree Prowse is worthless in the defense end of the pitch and not much help going forward.We can't seem to catch a break and Hughes still needs to go.Good to see Gabbi on the score sheet but Hojbjerg has a bad habit lately of giving the ball away far to much.Will be interested to see what happens this week,hopefully Ings won't be out to long.
10


KriSaint added 18:04 - Nov 10

Robbed by the ref. who took away Austin´s 2-0 goal because of a stupid linesman.
1 point in stead of 3 in a match in which neither we nor Watford played well. We really needed that victory, but it wasn´t to be.
5


BlackCrowe added 18:13 - Nov 10

How's the ref scoring so low? I thought he was excellent.
0


Yorkshire_Dale added 18:46 - Nov 10

"Lucky.lucky lucky" as Kylie sang........we played fairly decent stuff first half and looked set for another pan full 2nd half.......Not the case!.....We did n't lay a glove on them and they bossed us about for the full 45 odd minutes. They never gave up. Yes Calvin won his headers but it was straight off his bonce to no one in particular and straight back us. If Gateshead knew how to shoot it would have been curtains to the Cup.

How the sponsors picked a MOM god knows?.......Same names in the hat when picking the team?

Lucky lucky lucky.
0


the_saint added 18:53 - Nov 10

Shocking ref, why he disallowed Austin’s goal is anybody’s guess . Watford had a clear penalty as well to be honest best league in the world but worse referees. Ban for Austin because of his rant , sorry Charlie if you were playing for the big 6 you would have got away with it.
10


aceofthebase added 18:53 - Nov 10

What a pathetic defender is Cedric. He turned his back to the attacking shot and deflected the ball into his own net.
What a good goal by Austin and assisted by Redmond that was incorrectly disallowed.
This was a messy game with far too many passing errors.
Did we deserve all three points, well, probably not
1


dannyblue added 19:40 - Nov 10

Like freeman’s touch was well off today, but two goals from his set pieces so can’t knock him.
0


DPeps added 19:59 - Nov 10

Obviously none of us want to see Saints lose, but in many ways this draw was the worst possible result. It's 2 more points thrown away from a leading position, and it'll probably mean that the status quo is maintained. And Hughes can blame things out of his control (the ref)
4


SanMarco added 20:00 - Nov 10

We shouldn't get too steamed up blaming the ref - the first of his two clear errors was the penalty. It does seem that things go wrong after JWP comes on. A point was a fair result today - we needed to win and a lot of the usual problems meant we didn't. Let's blame the difficult conditions and move on to Craven Cottage. If MH is still with us he will definitely need to win that one.
8


aceofthebase added 20:57 - Nov 10

What a pathetic defender is Cedric. He turned his back to the attacking shot and deflected the ball into his own net.
What a good goal by Austin and assisted by Redmond that was incorrectly disallowed.
This was a messy game with far too many passing errors.
Did we deserve all three points, well, probably not
-1


MickB added 21:45 - Nov 10

Lynch seems to be flavour of the month. Today, I thought that what appeared to be lapses of concentration on his part played a role in both of their goals and several times he was turned too easily by their forwards.
0


mikesaint added 09:05 - Nov 11

Why did Hughes take off Armstrong that's when the game changed. JWP didn't clear the ball properly and gave it away, next minute it was in our net. We will never win a game if he keeps playing that useless article Prowse.
5


Shunter added 09:55 - Nov 11

Massimo was my MOM by a mile,
great tackling, great shutting down, good passing, in the right place to score,
covered every part of the pitch - tremendous performance
0


SaintBrock added 10:27 - Nov 11

Assume he was knackered
3


London_Pride added 17:35 - Nov 11

Great game to watch in front of a full Loftus Road.

I am also surprised that the ref hasn't got a higher score. He let the game flow whenever possible and was the best I have seen for a while.
0


SaintBrock added 14:48 - Nov 12

..er, OK but if you were stood a few feet away from the person shooting more or less straight at your crown jewels at 90mph what would you have done? If he stood full frontal and got hit full blast in the rollicks the ball (and his?) would probably have still gone into the net and the rest isn't worth thinking about!
-1


SaintBrock added 14:48 - Nov 12

Responding to

"What a pathetic defender is Cedric. He turned his back to the attacking shot and deflected the ball into his own net".
0


I_would added 17:26 - Nov 24

Tosh x 3 years
1


I_would added 17:26 - Nov 24

Tosh x 3 years
0


codge added 17:40 - Nov 24

I don't want to here how we were the better team when your defense absolutely was a shambles.The same thing again piss poor marking in fact no one exempt McCarthy comes out of this debacle with any credit.Armstrong, Redmond,both excellent but Austin again wasted space up front and even Gabbi seemed to running around like a headless chicken.Suey this has to be the end of the road for MHalloween as l can't see any reason to keep him any longer,for two seasons we have not filled the two CBS s.
7


SaintPaulVW added 17:53 - Nov 24

Help me, Obi-Femi. You're my only hope.
1


KriSaint added 19:30 - Nov 24

Ok....., my patience with Hoedt and Yoshida has now finally run out irreversably..
That happened, when I saw Hoedt´s unfortunate idea of how to cope with a ball in the corner of his own half followed by fellow CB Yoshida losing another arial duel, this time against left back Sessegnon, who is at least a head shorter, leading to Sessegnon assisting the 3-2 goal with a flick-on. That was after having seen both defenders wrongly placed when Fulham scored to 1-1. Bring in Vestergaard and Stephens and give especially Hoedt as long an absence from the starting line up as possible..
Also, my patience with Hughes has now run out. Get rid.
7


aceofthebase added 21:25 - Nov 24

Cedric out of position, totally beaten, unchallenged header. He's just a boot it up the pitch player and was more responsible for the loss than the CBs. Please play someone else at right back
It's time to start with the youngsters
2


codge added 21:44 - Nov 24

Same mistakes same people making them,how many times does this have to happen unbelievable.
10


SanMarco added 22:37 - Nov 24

Same old mistakes spoilt an otherwise reasonable enough performance. Our forwards don't score and our defence is very, very poor, As is often the case against the lower teams we look fine for long periods of the game but that isn't enough in this league, Fulham's defence was slightly less rubbish than ours and they had better attackers than us. Gabby missed two sitters, Austin didn't get close enough to the ball to even do that. Redmond alone put in more crosses than their whole team but they scored from most of theirs. Redmond's were usually heading practice for the defenders.

As for Hughes I think those 'you don't know what you're doing' chants should in part be a requiem for Les Reed. Our back four today was weaker than the one we played for the greater part of our first season back up. That's not Hughes' fault and the other CBs hardly inspire with any confidence. We are now in big, big trouble and it is difficult to think of easy solutions. The new manager will have hell of a job to keep us up and it will need, at the very least, new defenders in January.
12


allsaint54 added 02:54 - Nov 25

My dog can defend better than Cedric. At least he can head a ball
0


DPeps added 07:44 - Nov 25

There are so many problems at the club at the moment, and I'm not at all confident that we'll pull through this season. On the pitch the defence only looks ok if we play very conservatively, but if we play that way the attack can't score. Our midfield is the strongest area, but cannot do everything.

Talking with other fans and reading comments on forums, all fans seem to be united on thinking that Hughes needs to go. I agree, but the guy will need to be superhuman to get us out of this predicament. A successful background in alchemy is essential for any applicants
7


mattthelegend added 08:42 - Nov 25

Good point SanMarco, whilst yet another defeat you can only work with what you have got. Hughes may not be the greatest in the world, but our recruitment has been woeful over the last 2 and half years. All that money spent on players on loan or sat on the bench what is now Boufal, Carrillo, Vestergaard, Claisse, Mohammed nearly 80 million there. It’s going to take a miracle to get us of this with or without Hughes.
10


mattthelegend added 08:43 - Nov 25

Forgot, what has happened to Bednarek????
10


sandywelsh added 14:24 - Nov 25

We now have a team full of crap players that we have amassed over the last 3 years. These players would struggle to win a game in the Championship so the future does not look good. It looks like its down and down again no matter what manager we have the players are not good enough. The Board needs a major clear out and we need an owner who likes football with money to invest in the playing side of the club.
6


DPeps added 17:53 - Nov 25

My suggestions for Hughes/whoever replaces him:
- drop Cedric. When he first came I thought Cedric was ok, but he's plateaued for the last 2 years. He's actually getting worse now. In the past his defensive frailties were masked by good CBs, now we don't have the same quality centre backs. We don't have a lot of options at RB, but surely it's time to give Yan Valery a chance? Cedric could possibly fit in further up the pitch, but frankly I think he needs dropping altogether for a bit
- don't play Hoedt. Another one who is not getting better. He makes too many errors. As a CB pairing, I'd probably go for Stephens and Yoshi, or maybe Bednarek. Again, we're not spoilt for choice here, but I trust Hoedt the least out of all of them
- don't play Austin. I love the guy's passion, but he's offering nothing on the pitch now. I'd rather we bring through a young striker (Gallagher when fit or Obafemi)
6


aceofthebase added 18:41 - Nov 25

Dpeps.. Fancy putting your name forward as new manager. You have my vote
2


SanMarco added 19:11 - Nov 25

I am sure DPeps is far too sensible to want the poison chalice that is the Saints job. I agree with his assessment, although I would probably try the giant Danish CB again and (despite yesterday's sitters) would stick with Gabby a bit longer. Obafemi is being talked up but he really should have scored himself yesterday. Even so, yes, , I would give him a run before Austin and Long. I would also put Redmond on a week of extensive crossing practice. He got to the same blade of grass that Fulham players got to (2 crosses and 2 goals) on numerous occasions and did nothing. Alright often he didn't have much to aim at but then you hold it up and wait for Charlie to eventually lumber into the area...
3


Mrangry25 added 18:59 - Nov 26

Well what can i say, another game we should have won but didnt, getting fed up listening to the same old tosh dished out by Mr Hughes, yes we may have had the majority of possession but if you don’t put it in the onion bag what is the point of this tippy tappy football!!!. He continues to play the same players and expects a different result, why he keeps playing Charlie up front is beyond me, he offers nothing and more importantly wins nothing either, why does he play Hoedt he is a calamity and makes too many basic errors. Redmond yet again should stay on the right NOT the left and get some crossing practice in because it is pathetic to watch. Lamina and Armstrong in the first half were brilliant Lamina my MoM. Cedric is embarrassing as a full back gets beat too often and wanders all over the place getting caught on the wrong side to often.
We break too slowly which is partly down to the fact that Charlie has got no pace at all and the rest of the team are still back in the 18yrd line instead of pushing out as a unit to support. I feel for Gabbiadini he is a class player but spend most of his time covering for Cedric. There needs to be a change and quick. I think Stephens and Yoshida at CB’s Targett Left, not sure who RB, Keep the midfield the same but put Redmond on the right to allow Targett more room down the left, drop Charlie to the ‘A’ side and play Obafemi and gabby upfront. It was a disappointing showing on Saturday but i think we can get it of it but change is needed now. Tuesdays match against Leicester is the one to try it out on. I live in hope
0


francisbowles added 10:54 - Nov 28

Struggled to get to grips with the pressure that Rotherham exerted with pressing and numerous dead balls played into the box.

Last twenty minutes or so got on top as they tired and could have easily won it in the end.

Referee absolutely ineffectual and inconsistent. Did nothing to speed up play and two yellows for us but nothing for them.
0


KriSaint added 12:46 - Nov 28

Decent performance from Saints.
Solid in defence.
Offensively, at least we tried.
We hit the bar 2 times and were unlucky to see Davis´ good goal disallowed.
We were definitely better than Leicester.
2


SaintBrock added 15:42 - Nov 28

Shambolic as usual, no plan, no cohesion, no goals
0


centrestandswan added 22:15 - Nov 28

Swans outplayed by better team.
0


SaintBrock added 10:10 - Nov 29

What was the goal disallowed for?
0


ChrisGreenwalty added 02:01 - Nov 30

Looking out different things, this was an interesting match. However, things were not gone like these were considered to be. I am sure that all players need to do more hardwork. https://www.theacademicpapers.co.uk/dissertation-writing-services-uk.php
0


smegma added 21:43 - Dec 1

I thought Bright should have been introduced on the hour rather than 5 minutes from the end.
0


KriSaint added 11:01 - Dec 2

Approved performance by Saints. I was disappointed by Vestergaard´s involvement in both the MU goals and by Yoshida´s involvement in the second MU goal.
Apart from that - encouraging performance.
We scored 2 great goals. Amazing freekick goal by Cedric. Obafemi got a nice assist. Valery offers more physical presence as right back than Cedric is capable of, and Valery looked comfortable with stepping up and having his PL debut.
We need Ings back. He is our no. 1 striker. Obafemi now above Gabbi, Austin and Long, which I am satisfied with.
3


Geoff78 added 12:03 - Dec 2

Walking down S Africa road I said to my wife should be an easy 3 points with Hull in a relegation spot... then added "which means we know what will happen". And it came to pass!

Both teams missed chances and keepers made good saves. And although Rs had an excellent spell at the end of the first half playing some lovely football, they were too often out-muscled in midfield and our defenders made to look more immobile than usual.

Maybe some over-confidence after they got a goal back thinking it would all be alright and forgot the basics. As often Maclaren's substitutions didn't make sense. We didn't need 2 big centre forwards but did need pace earlier than when BOS eventually came on.

But we need to be realistic. This is still better than I dared hope after first 4 games.
0


SaintBrock added 12:00 - Dec 3

Two points dropped from a winning position, same old, same old.
0


KriSaint added 23:42 - Dec 5

Annoying that Spurs got the lead so early because Yoshida slept in stead of dealing with a low cross that ended up as foods and drinks for Kane at the near post.
Saints hit the woodwork 3 times + there were other chances that should have ended up in Spurs´ net. Davis, Ward-Prowse etc.
I wonder when the marginals will be on our side. Soon I hope.
I sense some optimism in our team, but I am also well known for being optimistic.
Targett had an awful game, unfortunately. Totally involved in the third goal. We should have played Cedric as left back again and kept Valery in the team as right back, but at the end of the day I guess it was ok, that Targett got the chance.
Now, I look forward to some massive game - not least the game vs Cardiff.
Good luck to our new manager <3
5


codge added 23:43 - Dec 5

Firstly Yoshida has to go utterly pathetic on two goals, totally out of his position again and the second goal he turns his back on the player awful defending again.Hopefully the new manager can sort the back line out although l just don't think there good enough.As for Target we should of taken the 10 million he was completely out of his depth.Although we did create quite a few chances again we failed to put the ball in the back of the net.


4


Messysaints added 00:25 - Dec 6

Good game, thought we played well, game was over after 3rd goal but we played well, JWP most creative player on the pitch today so well done to him and Davis on his assist and Austin on his goal, poor defending let us down.
-3


TimSaint added 02:33 - Dec 6

You would have thought everyone would have been up for it from the start, to do a job for Kelvin and to try to impress the new manager.

The reality was that we were slow out of the blocks, Targett not bothering to even challenge for a header that resulted in Son hitting the post after a few minutes.
Switched off for their quick corner and Yoshi ball watching as Kane had a tap in.
2nd goal - another corner not properly cleared and they score as defenders turn their backs on shots.
3rd goal - another error just like Hoedt at Fulham - Targett's clearance from the left back position gets charged down and goes to Kane who crosses for the Son tap in.

We rallied a little for the last half an hour, actually had more chances than Spurs, hit the woodwork 3 times and Loris pulled off some good saves - including getting in the way of JWP's follow up to a PEH shot, when it was easier to score !!

My issue was despite the late rally, the game was already lost by then. Spurs had done their job and took their foot off the gas. It was the first half that we needed the performance of the last half hour.

Our defenders are crap - they train with strikers like Long, Austin, Ings and Gab, who have no goals or fitness in them and are not capable of punishing the mistakes made. They are therefore made to look good, that is until they come up against someone with any real skill, pace or quality !! Roll on the January clear out and window.

What a p1ss poor attendance as well !!
7


SanMarco added 08:39 - Dec 6

A match that confirmed what most of us have known for a long time. Basic defending lapses cost us any chance + plenty of chances not taken. This new guy will have plenty of food for thought as he reports for work today. "How bad must the other 3 CBs be?" is probably the question he will be asking.

An interesting few weeks ahead - Let's all pray for the new manager bounce because defeat on Saturday and things will be looking very grim indeed...
7


SaintBrock added 09:25 - Dec 6

Targett & Ward Prowse! Never want to see these two charlatans in a Saints shirt again.

Stephens & Yoshida are the best we have? I feel sorry for Hasenhüttl he must be wondering why he signed on the dotted line after that inept performance.

Good job Spurs took pity on us and eased off after 3-0 to spare us a complete humiliation. We must thank Mauricio for that, he is probably grieving a bit for his old club after the kind remarks he made about the City & SFC.

Glad Kelvin won't be involved in running the show after that team selection and performance fiasco. No Kelvin, modern football about more than all that "pride in the shirt" bullsh*t
1


Boris1977 added 09:34 - Dec 6

I'll take Nick's advice and see the appointment of a new and progressive manager as a fresh start but, my god, he has got his work cut out for him. Here's hoping he can undo 3 years of negatively and complacency and deterioration in a few weeks.
7


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0


aceofthebase added 17:16 - Dec 8

In appaling conditions this must rank as the worst performance of the season for Saints. The defence was atrocious, I'm afraid that Valery was outplayed and it was a fair substitution at half time. Vestergaard was responsible for the goal after a series of misplaced passes and dawdling on the ball by several others.
This is just not good enough and there is going to no magic cure with a new manager, in fact several games may be wasted whilst he discovers which player(s) is worth persevering with.
It struck me as the fight and the spirit to win was there. The failing was the quality and concentration of our defensive players and of course no-one to put the ball in the net
14


codge added 17:32 - Dec 8

Really just need to look at the previous two seasons and this season and this report would be saying the same thing. Ralph Has to see the obvious here our defense was as usual pathetic no one person comes out of this game with any credit.And when l saw we had Moss as the ref l nearly puked.
9


I_would added 17:38 - Dec 8

If Gobbledygook Man doesn't sort some cash out for January we are sunk. That was worse than the under 18's on a bad day.
If you can't do difficult things, due to a personal lack of talent, then you should do the simple things well. Somebody should tell Vestergaard that and then tell him to f**k off and brush up on his gardening.
8


SaintPaulVW added 17:39 - Dec 8

The defense was just appalling. Every time one of the back 4 had it, it was a heart in the mouth moment we could have given a goal away. You can see why Bednarak hasn't played and why we didn't cash in on Targett still escapes me. Valery looked his age.

Attack was toothless. Romeu still looks good, Redmond good until the final ball, Armstrong and Lemina both back to being lightweights again.

Ralph has an awful lot of work to do and fancy deadball plays are not going to get us out of trouble.

Oh and FFS Vestergard. Lol. COYR
11


DPeps added 18:15 - Dec 8

That was certainly a winnable game, and we spannered it, again. We have the worst defence in the PL, maybe only rivalled by Fulham. Clearly we need a new defender in Jan, but given the quality of the last two we've bought I don't have much confidence.

I said a few weeks ago that our manager will need to be a miracle worker and an alchemist; add to that Jesus mark 2 and a genius. Good luck Ralph!
10


NewburySaint added 18:56 - Dec 8

We are gradually running out of CB’s fast-Stephens isn’t a CB, & after his last 2 performances, + away at Wolves, Vestergaard should not be handed a shirt again. What also disgusted me about Vestergaard today was not only did he let us down today he went straight down the tunnel without shaking any hands or coming over to us supporters-he should have been the 1st over to us apologising & begging for forgiveness.

I thought Bednarek was ok though so we’ll have to soldier on with him & 1 of Yoshi or Hoedt until Jan when we surely must buy, or loan, at least 1 top class CB.
9


saintjf added 20:43 - Dec 8

Our defence again. Vestergaard rubbish this week. Yoshi rubbish last week. There is nobody left in central defence. what a mess.
10


SanMarco added 21:01 - Dec 8

It is not looking good, in fact it is looking catastrophically bad. . This defence is Les Reid's lasting legacy. They give point after point away with basic errors. God knows who the least worse two of the CBs are. Bednarek has moved up the pecking order by simply not playing. Perhaps Yoshi or Hoedt next to him. It is awful but otherwise we have to put non-specialists there which would be obscene given that we have 5 CBs. Thanks Les.

We have got to somehow squeeze a few points out of the rest of this month and even if we do the club will have a choice in January : Spend proper money on decent CBs and a forward who can score, or don't spend and we go down. All very sad and unnecessary - every one of us saw what was going on in the defence once Fonte and Van Dick went - but the problem was addressed by buying dross. Did anyone even watch Hoedt and Vestergaard play before they signed them???

10


allsaint54 added 01:12 - Dec 9

Lucky it was only 1-0 with abject Sunday League defending. We haven't got a decent defender at the club. Sell the lot. What has happened to Targett, makes the decision to reject £10m a joke.
Defenders can't defend, strikers can't score, midfield can't create or track back. RH has got a massive job on his hands, where he starts is anyone's guess but I wish him well.
8


SaintBrock added 10:15 - Dec 9

We've had it.
1


Ali_Diarea added 10:46 - Dec 9

I don’t think it’s an exaggeration to say that we need to spend £100m on the defence.

In the meantime (as if that will ever happen!), I can’t stand the bloke, but we need a John Terry type defender at the club. Someone who knows when to hoof it into row Z, someone who can rally the troops and add a bit of calmness to the other defenders around him and even score the odd goal.
4


dirk_doone added 13:36 - Dec 9

Ali, in fact the man we need is currently the captain of a team which is 2nd in the French League and plays for a national team which has reached the semi-finals of the European Nations League. How we could do with a captain and central defender of that class right now.
1


KriSaint added 15:32 - Dec 9

At no point did I fear we would lose this match - until Moss blew the final whistle, and it had sunk in that Vestergaard had gifted Cardiff a goal 15 minutes before the end, a goal we couldn´t manage to equalize within the remaining 15 minutes + added time.

Ok...., when Ings and Obafemi are over their injuries, and Ralph has worked with our defence, we will improve, I´m sure.

Very interesting to see Cedric dropped in order to try to damage control the consequences of our leaky defence. Sad it didn´t pay off. We would have had a clean sheat had it not been for Vestergaards "own goal".

I hope Vestergaards first season will be comparable with Gary Pallister´s first disaster season for Man. U. thirty years ago and the coming seasons ditto comparible with Pallister´s totally improved, classy performances after he had found his feet in the team.
COYS.
1


KriSaint added 15:36 - Dec 9

(Supplement)
It´s too early to sell Vestergaard for a bag of potatoes.
Let´s give the guy a chance. He was in team of the year (in the magazine called something like ´Kicker´) in the Bundes league a couple of years ago.
0


DPeps added 18:39 - Dec 9

At the top of RH's long list of jobs must be 'sort defence out'. However, that's easier said than done. One of the major issues is that our CBs don't seem suited to the high press game RH wants to play. Surely in order to be successful playing this way you need at least one quick CB. You need to press as a team, meaning that the CBs will need to push up to avoid creating a massive gap between midfield and defence. We played high press well in the past because we had quick defenders. Currently, I'd guess that Yoshida is by far our quickest CB, and that Vestergaard is our slowest.

I'm no football coach, so someone correct me if I'm talking bobbins. Just seems to me like we might not have the personnel to be able to successfully do high press
2


SanMarco added 19:23 - Dec 9

DPeps: " we might not have the personnel to be able to successfully do high press".

We haven't got the personnel to successfully defend either...
0


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0


KriSaint added 19:41 - Dec 10

Didn´t Lemina play CB under Bielsa when at Marseille before he went to Juventus?
He is definetely a quick player. There could be a solution to our lack of speed in defence in a high pressing structured team.
´Have an open mind`, has RH said, repeatedly!
0


Geoff78 added 11:23 - Dec 16

This was the sort of game Rs would have lost last season, and probably over the last 5 or 6 seasons. A strong physical team, bordering on dirty, grabbing an equaliser and looking for a second, but we stood up to them and could have won more convincingly if we'd put away 2 or 3 good chances. Wells was MotM, constantly running, chasing and scoring a cracking goal. Beginning to look like the signing of the season. Leistner solid at the back and Cousins looking good as cover for Cameron, ahead of Scowen.
0


nightwish added 11:39 - Dec 16

How people have suffered this season sitting in the paddocks with the weather for QPR home games.How many are still alive.Think we need to change football to a summer sport I am sure attendances would be well up if it was a summer sport.
0


francisbowles added 12:20 - Dec 16

Agree with the first parts of Geoff but Wells missed chances so MOM for me either Freeman or Luongo who played well throughout the game.
0


HantsR added 18:21 - Dec 16

I travelled my usual 70 miles to the game in heavy rain and heavy traffic and a heavy cold with no great optimism. Indeed, as I trudged towards the game in my Arctic weather gear I did question my judgement and sanity. However, the opening goal was a far better tonic for than a cocktail of Lemsip, Sudafed and any other potions or pills. We played well when we managed to get some passing movement, especially on the wings but I always felt that Boro were solid in midfield and central defence but I whispered to my mate in SAR with some trepidation, that I thought Boro didn't have a great attack and looked very vulnerable when we ran at them. For quite a while they did seem to be able to mop up all second balls and our possession was patchy although potentially lethal when we could get it to Nahki. I had also said that Wszolek was due a good game and he suggested that this was on although I don't think he was quite as great as some have said. Fantastic run into the box in the second half - proper wing play! I was relieved that Darnell looked fit and approaching his best and we seemed to be able to negate the Boro attack across the line. Pity that Lynch had to go off and that coincided with Darnell's weak clearance - not the first time I have wondered whether another keeper might have saved the resulting shot? We took the game to Boro after that and some breakaways looked as though we should surely score a couple more through Eze, Pav especially - but not to be. Wells' goal was class but it was astonishing how much room he had. Freeman and Luongo were able to have a far greater impact in the second half and the team performance made Boro look very ordinary. One special mention for Luongo, who won countless headers against very tall, physical opposition. Scowen looked a lot better than he has of late and I would like to see him back in the side and performing as he did last season.
0


TimSaint added 10:57 - Dec 17

Oh what difference a week makes !!

Much improved performance in terms of tempo, pace and passing.

Still get punished for our usual error or 2, but at least we didn't try to shut up shop once in front and it was good to see both teams going for the win.

Defence was much better and seemed to have more organisation and belief, but they still need someone to Marshall.

Passing was also improved, including some quick, short, intricate stuff. Targett needs work here, but as for Yoshi, I don't think he can be taught - many misplaced passes and those that found their man were pinged so hard !! I will let him off though, as despite letting Aubameyang in early on, he won lots of crucial headers at the end and helped us win the game.

Great to see lots of early balls into the box, instead of all this fannying around with it and passing it back, or waiting for the defence to get back. Well taken goals and believe it or not, I think they were our first headed goals of the season !!

No doubt the press will say Arsenal played badly, had an off day/injuries etc and some reports suggest they should have got a draw, but the reality is that we outplayed them, created the better chances and if it wasn't for a big deflection, would have won by a greater margin. Oh why do they dive so much, as soon as they lose the ball - in virtually every position !!

Lastly - Long"s offside goal. The keeper made a great save from Yoshi's header and having looked at it again, the parry goes out, hits the Arsenal defender's leg and Long pokes home - so goal in my book. Difficult to spot and not picked up on MOTD.
4


I_would added 12:32 - Dec 17

Excellent effort from everyone and great result for the first time since Koeman.

Just goes to show how bad those last 3 managerial choices were and what a lazy load of money-quaffing failures they all were. Oh, and Reed for choosing them in his own image.
Brilliant!
2


SaintBrock added 18:38 - Dec 17

Every game counts from now on, no more freebies for the big boys.
1


KriSaint added 17:00 - Dec 18

A changed team! :-)

Great performance, great result. Bring on Huddersfield.

Let´s try to forget the 3 managers before RaHa and enjoy this win and start believing again.

My player ratings:
McCarthy 8
Yoshida 7
Bednarek 8
Vestergaard 7
Valery 7
Targett 7
Hojbjerg 8
Romeu 7
Armstrong 7
Redmond 7
Ings 8
Long 7
Austin 7
Johnson (played only a few minutes)
0


I_would added 17:35 - Dec 22

Superb result. The players didn't do what they were told as in the Arsenal game but it just proved enough to beat a mid-table very poor Championship side.
The only blot was Armstrong who looked unfit and clueless and should have come off earlier as the difference when Lemina came on was night and day as far as pressing and getting into attacking positions etc. In fact he seemed to be possessed by the spirit of JWP who was correctly left home with Davis. Good job by the lads.
4


TimSaint added 17:40 - Dec 22

Another good performance, at em from the off and I felt there was only going to be one winner once we were in front.
Well taken goal, but perhaps the through ball from PEH should have been cut out.
Could have had another couple before the penalty, but how good was that to go in at Half Time 2 up.
2nd half couldn't even had another before we conceded.
Don't know what the hell McCarthy was doing though - switched off ? A good save before their goal and a couple after, as we sat back and invited pressure.
Then we were a bit more organised on the break and Obafemi should have scored but put it wide, then scored after Redmond robbed their defender and then could have had another.
At 3-1 all Hudd did was put balls into our box and we dealt with these quite well. Just 1 scare with a ball along the 6 yard line that missed everyone.
Only moan was PEH getting booked so misses the next game and Mbenza standing on Armstrong's tummy - got a yellow but if the ref saw the tread, then it should have been a red.
Bring on West Ham and then it is a couple of easy ones !!
Safe journey back lads, Merry Christmas and see you all at SMS on Thurs
6


SaintPaulVW added 17:56 - Dec 22

All the things that were wrong before are still wrong but the players are playing with confidence and that is making such a difference. Don't know whether it's the system or the training methods.

Defenders are still making mistakes but don't seem to have the fear that one error will cost them the game. Attackers are still either over passing or blazing over but have confidence to run at goal rather than invariably stop and pass back you can see the improvement. Really, really, impressed in what RH has done in such a short space of time.

Bring on the rest of the season.
2


SaintBrock added 19:09 - Dec 22

Result never looked in doubt after Redmond's goal. Lots of good intent but first half saw a lot of sloppy passing from our players, much better focused and disciplined second half after Ralph reminded them that their places in the team are not permanent but defence still looked shaky under pressure. Romeu & Hojberg were outstanding in the middle of the park and Redmond is turning into a very good player.

Valery struggled at times through inexperience at this level so we must hope that Cedric's absence has more to do with injury recovery than the transfer window. Targett is I'm proving but nowhere near Bertrand when fit.
7


keith_gatebroth added 20:15 - Dec 22

He keeps on picking MacKay and John, but they are both useless and have shown nothing since they’ve come here.
0


suffolkdale added 22:00 - Dec 22

First victory at Roots Hall since 1985 when Bobby Moore was manager! 111 fans witnessed an historic occasion and boy did we celebrate!
1


KriSaint added 01:28 - Dec 23

Great match. We didn´t control the match all through, but I thought we played ok and defended well. The believe is back with the players. Redmond looks like a totally changed player. Vestergaard is certainly beginning to show what he is capable of. The youngsters get chances now! Full marks to Ralph Hasenhüttl.
I had a bad dream that Spurs took him from us next summer when MoPo goes to Man. U. or Real Madrid....
Luckily it was just a dream. He looks a class manager! He was certainly worth waiting for. Let´s forget the poor football we´ve seen since Koeman left and enjoy our new ´expression`.
COYS! <3
3


dixiedean added 10:30 - Dec 23

Maybe churlish to talk negatives after yesterday's joy but SM got away with the subs , or lack of . Eze had his worst game of the season and was AWOL when we were under the cosh and fresh legs were needed . Admittedly the bench options were limited but maybe BOS for Eze and move Freeman inside ? Ok so we got away with it but just conceding half the pitch to them for the last 15 mins was a dangerous game . Some great performances- Pav was incredible and easily MOM for me but BFGand Furs also brilliant. And the team seemed to understand the significance of the win even though not many of them will have played there for us before . Now please don't do the obvious Rs thing of losing at home to the bottom team !
0


Jamiescfc1912 added 18:04 - Dec 26

We were on top for big periods of the game. McBurnie should have buried his chance, Bony should have buried the penalty. Celina is useless out wide and Montero is useless fullstop.
1


Badlands added 18:46 - Dec 26

Same pattern as in previous games - control and have possession for ages then concede a soft goal.
Again we really didn't look like scoring, even for the penalty Bony's body language suggested a player with no confidence.
Another game from which we should have walked away with 3 point but got nothing. You have to score to win games.
James, for Allis exciting possibilities, lacks a final ball or goal threat & McBurnie once agains spurned excellent chances.
0


landrover1 added 18:46 - Dec 26

Yes Ferr gave the ball away for thyre goal and why GP sticks with him God only knows him and Bony,Dyer, and Routlage shoul be shown the door in January and as for HJ telling GP that there will be money available to get some players in next month well pigs may fly to he HJ should not be at the club anyway he lied to all of us just to line his own pockets and the only thing them yanks won't is to money for D.C. United out of our club it was a bad day for our club when them two came in
-1


smegma added 22:06 - Dec 26

Ten clean sheets.

Just saying.
0


Geoff78 added 09:53 - Dec 27

Solid performance, defence rarely tested and 3 goals shared between a defender, a midfielder and a striker. In Wells we seem to have a striker who can score goals, and good goals, something we've really missed since Chas left. Have to say, of course, Ipswich were poor, but our organisation and defence are impressive.

Good to see Chair get game time and set up the third goal when chasing down a ball most assumed was going out. Perhaps a message to Eze that he's not the only promising youngster in the squad. He's played a lot of minutes and may need resting at some time.
0


Fakaff added 05:11 - Dec 28

Why? Yan plays the entire match?
Why? Yosh out and not Bednarek?
Why? Ely not from the start?
Why? No Oba?

0


dawlishdale added 17:11 - Dec 29

Awful selection and awful tactics from Hill again. Made Bradford look like Worldbeaters.
2


Martianwildpants added 17:18 - Dec 29

Well deserved win for BCFC agains a gutless and poor Dale team.
2


Toffeemanc added 17:26 - Dec 29

If it was ever in doubt today proved Hill has no plan b. Best way of describing that performance would be "manager less"
1


Ciaran_smith added 17:41 - Dec 29

Awful first half. Great second half. Referee is a tw*t
0


smegma added 18:35 - Dec 29

No subs until time added on ?? Matt Smith introduced with 90 seconds of the four minutes added on was a master stroke. It was like Ian Holloway at his weirdest.
I would have taken a point at half time and at full time. The ONLY pluses I can recall is a point and a clean sheet. 10 points out of 12 ain't too shabby.
0


felixstowe_jack added 18:38 - Dec 29

Very strange starting lineup. Utter shambles first half. Team changes at half time gave us a better shape and we were by far the better team

Referee was dire after giving a penalty for a slight push he then ignore blantent two handed pushes
0


Yorkshire_Dale added 19:54 - Dec 29

Wall to wall crap from a shower of San Spotty Softies......outmuscled and outplayed from 1st minute.

Players are robbing a living from the Club with that performance......."hang your heads" loosers.

Oh,and the Chippy was shut!!!!
1


Badlands added 20:06 - Dec 29

From the moment I read the starting line up it was looking bleak. The only senior player was Routledge and our left side comprised James as a wing back ahead of Harris and CVC.
Players looked depressed even before kick off.
TBH we were very fortunate to be only 2 goals down at half time. That said we got mugged by. dodgy referee (with form at the Liberty) and a Wigan side that gave snowflakes a bad name.
0


enfieldargh added 21:00 - Dec 29

Sadly John Swift was the best player on the park today although like Barry Bannon nothing to show for all his pass ratio
0


Geoff78 added 11:54 - Dec 30

Scowen + Cousins (esp the latter) were v disappointing. Obviously had a clear message at half time as both booked in first few minutes of second half. Many are suggesting Lumley as MotM, which is fair enough, but his distribution is erratic. Although we could have won it at the end, we were outplayed for long periods. Agree completely about the subs. It looks like McClaren didn't have confidence in them and although the team did improve for the last quarter using subs earlier would have given them a positive message and been a warning to any players not putting in a shift.
0


I_would added 16:51 - Dec 30

Thought it would be 0-10 minimum so not a bad result in the end. Also a shop window for JWP to get the hell out of here in Jan along with Elyounoussi, Long, Lemina, Targett, Cedric, Hoedt, Austin and Romeu. Have I forgotten anyone?
3


I_would added 16:52 - Dec 30

Oh yeh Davis.
-1


darthvader added 16:55 - Dec 30

Time to rest McCarthy , give Gunn or Forster a chance too many goals going in that he should really of saved.

The line up was wrong to begin with, although we did look tired the other night so I understand why. Did not expect to win but At least we drew the second half .

Fed up with refs, in the last two games they were getting coached by the opposition FFS.
Great goal by PEH.
Let's get a win at Chelsea

6


sandywelsh added 17:27 - Dec 30

Terrible game Man City had 77% Possession. The starting line up was useless why were so many 1st team players rested. This game showed why JWP should not play he took a dive to try and get a pen then scores an own goal. Dave merrington said on radio Solent this was the worst game he had seen Saints play this season. With out Alex McCarthy in goal Man City would have scored 7 or 8. We need a major clear out in January starting with JWP, Stephens, Austin, Elyounoussi, Lemina, Davis, Hoedt, Gallagher and Long. Then we need to buy 4 or 5 good players. We should be matching West Ham spending £40 million on a striker.
5


SaintPaulVW added 18:03 - Dec 30

Difficult one. To my mind Ralph had obviously decided that we were going to probably get nothing out of this game so decided to rest a few players and play a few youngsters. Fair enough, it's about staying up this season and you don't have to win every game to do that.

Inability to defend a header in the box did for us. The third goal was a duffer too. We were up against it for most of the game but had a short spell when we looked good.

Ely's (aside from that beautiful ball to Austin) first touch was abysmal and Lemina didn't look like he had come back from his holiday. Aguero showed Austin what a striker is supposed to do with half a chance. Stonking goal from PEH, shame about the mad challenge though.

Long probably needs to be moved on in January, Lemina, Austin also if we need a bit of dosh.
2


allsaint54 added 18:06 - Dec 30

Can understand resting players & rotating the squad but why oh why start JWP. Any academy player would be better. Can't remember winning when he starts, too slow which is why he had to dive to get away from defender. Surely that must be his last chance. As for Eli & Lemon nuff said. There needs to be a huge clear out in Jan. Can only assume Gabbi & Hoedt are on their way.
The only positive today was seeing some youngsters coming through & doing ok.
6


codge added 18:53 - Dec 30

Targett,Elyounoussi, lemina and Redmond also Ward-Prowse total waste of space should all leave this club on this display.
Still have problems at the back but could of been at least 4 or 5 more if not for McCarthy.Shame that we lose the one player that really puts in the effort in Hojbjerg 3 games will be a big loss.
5


saintjf added 20:16 - Dec 30

I am not so sure about our goalkeeper as others are.... When I saw the line up I thought we would get stuffed. We were not stuffed though and Man City were not that convincing. Cannot help thinking that we might have got a draw with a full strength side. We have spirit. Biggest worry is that we are going to have to get the results to stay up and not rely on worse teams. Burnley beat West Ham who were convincing winners over us a few days ago. 2019 could be very stressful. Happy New Year all.
5


Pecky3 added 20:26 - Dec 30

As soon as the team was announced I realised Saints would struggle. A young lad with no experience in defence. No Ings, Redmond, Armstrong who were arguably our est players in last three games. Team selection was so puzzling! I did not see us put together any good passing moves - too many passes went astray! One of the worst Saints performances I have ever seen! Relegation is a dead cert on this form
4


Pecky3 added 21:05 - Dec 30

As soon as the team was announced I realised Saints would struggle. A young lad with no experience in defence. No Ings, Redmond, Armstrong who were arguably our est players in last three games. Team selection was so puzzling! I did not see us put together any good passing moves - too many passes went astray! One of the worst Saints performances I have ever seen! Relegation is a dead cert on this form
1


saintjf added 21:22 - Dec 30

I am not so sure about our goalkeeper as others are.... When I saw the line up I thought we would get stuffed. We were not stuffed though and Man City were not that convincing. Cannot help thinking that we might have got a draw with a full strength side. We have spirit. Biggest worry is that we are going to have to get the results to stay up and not rely on worse teams. Burnley beat West Ham who were convincing winners over us a few days ago. 2019 could be very stressful. Happy New Year all.
2


KriSaint added 02:36 - Dec 31

Could have been an other story if was Mo Salah and not Ward-Prowse who was pushed down in the penalty area at 1-1, shortly before half time...

Our defence was heavily re-shuffled, and 18 year old Ramsay had his debut playing 90 minutes, first as a right back in a 4-man back line, and then - for the majority of the game - as a right sided center back...... (!) in a 3-man defence. He was in there - ONLY - to give our defence some pace, to deal with mainly Sterling. I can see why Hasenhütll tried this , but it was too big a job for the young lad. You cannot blame Hasenhüttl for not being a brave man...
City were lucky in the last stages of the first half, not to get a penalty against them and go behind,
and to get their second goal seconds later - a lucky own goal. That emptied our players´ engines, and
City scored their third goal shortly after.
Second half was ok as we prevented City from scoring further.
Ward-Prowse, unlucky to score an own goal, was our best player, showing his versatility playing as right midfielder, right wing back and then central midfielder. Hojbjerg also had a good game and scored a brilliant equalizer but made a stupid tackle and got a red card with 5 minutes remaining.
Vestergaard was rested and Ings on the bench for 90 minutes, which I found to be ok. If we had looked like having a chance to win during the second half, Ings would have been brought on the pitch, I think.
Elyounouissi was disappointing (again) throughout the 90 minutes, and Redmond, who played the second half, had a poor game. He should have been rested.
It seems Davis, Cedric and Hoedt are definetely going away in the transfer window, if we can find and agree with buyers, and I suspect Bertrand to be in the same situation. This means that we have a chance of getting money to invest in new players.
3


kristianJ added 10:04 - Dec 31

A fair scoreline, given how dominant City were in the first 30 mins and the amount of possession they had. We played well for about 15 mins and could have had a pen when on top. I thought that Lemina for the second game running was really poor, no energy and too slow picking forward passes, although I read somewhere that he’d had a stomach bug, which might explain his performance. I thought Elyounoussi was woeful after half a season it’s difficult to see what he offers the side and he doesn’t seem to have an end product. Despite the loss I still think we will stay up and that Ralph is the right man for the job, it’s going to take him sometime as we have a big squad full of mainly average players.
1


vanmans added 17:59 - Dec 31

Men against to many boys
0


SaintBrock added 09:46 - Jan 1

Ramsey, Targett, Valery, Stephens, Ward Prowse, Elyounoussi, Austin.... and I had to pay them money to watch that load of horse *****
0


MelakaRanger added 17:31 - Jan 1

Gripping match. Totally proud of this team and it’s been a good few years since I last felt that.
0


Badlands added 23:12 - Jan 1

Long overdue thumping of a very poor team.
Well done and time to have a day off.
0


SaintBrock added 10:19 - Jan 3

Good to see Cedric back in the fold even if in the wrong position. Whatever has gone on at Staplewood we cannot afford to have a player like him left out just because the coach has some hang ups about haircuts and iPhones.

Players seem to be getting fitter and lasting longer as well.

Must assume Lemina has an injury for Plodder to get a second game in a row. When you see a kid like Valery take the ball off Hazard cleanly you are bound to wonder how on earth Ploddy has worked his way through nigh on 200 PL games without once ever having made a clean tackle on anybody.

4


mikesaint added 11:29 - Jan 3

Good team performance and a good point. Only weak link was Prowse[Ploddy] who needs to be sold.
4


aceofthebase added 13:30 - Jan 3

Only weakness was Cedric who played out of position ( more suited to the bench). Yoshy was fantastic and proved what a great international player he is. The whole team played well and with tremendous enthusiasm
The star of our side though was Gunn who had a dream debut. He seemed to be always in the right position and was not afraid to leave his line, without him we would have lost.
The sub of Long I thought on consideration was good, he is a player with tremendous energy that will chase lost causes and that was exactly what we needed. A goal always looked unlikely but we did try and I'm certain that Chelsea were a little anxious.
0


I_would added 16:00 - Jan 3

Back to the old style shot attempts.
-1


KriSaint added 00:50 - Jan 4

Gunn 8
Cedric 7
Bednarek 7
Yoshida 8
Vestergaard 7
Valery 7
JWP 7
Romeu 7
Amstrong 7
Redmond 6
Ings 6

Long 6
(Austin and Stephens only played a few minutes and don´t get ratings this time :-) )

We re-collected the point we lost against West Ham. And a clean sheet against a free scoring team. Great result.
Congratulations to Angus Gunn for his fine debut.
I hope we can follow it up by getting another point(s) away from home vs Leicester.
But before that, I want us to progress in the FA cup vs Derby next saturday.
I love good cup runs, and I think many Saints fans do. We were in a final in the 16/17 season and a semi-final in the 17/18 season. We are out of the league cup competition this season, unfortunately, (because of Gabbiadini´s concentrationless, bad penalty kick), but let´s have another great run in the FA cup.
COYS!
0


I_would added 17:10 - Jan 5

JWP was utter s***e.
7


janecook added 17:26 - Jan 5

To many kids. The bench was to weak this game showed why we need new players. It was once said you never win anything with kids.
6


mikesaint added 17:40 - Jan 5

Captain Crap. JWP was one of the worst today. After this performance Elyounoussi , Prowse, Stephens and Vestergaard need to be sold. The kids that played today are not ready to step up to the first team. Money needs to be spent on 3 or 4 good new players. Just look at what little Bournemouth have done in the transfer market already.
6


dawlishdale added 17:40 - Jan 5

Sick of this now. The team we sent out today would struggle at Conference level, never mind L1 or L2.

Feel sorry for the new Chairman, but he needs to make huge changes as the whole atmosphere on and off the pitch is toxic, from the Boardroom, to the players.
1


aceofthebase added 17:57 - Jan 5

A very disjointed affair. There does not appear to me any difference in the way we have played all season. We must have a big clean out of the dead wood. Mo Ely not good enough, JWP just does not achieve anything. Long and Austin would struggle in a championship side. Targett and Cedric both poor. Gunn is not invincible. Youngsters overwhelmed tonight. We don't seem to be playing as a team, just kick and chase. Another two-goal lead surrendered. Oh and great goal by Redmond.
4


aceofthebase added 17:57 - Jan 5

A very disjointed affair. There does not appear to me any difference in the way we have played all season. We must have a big clean out of the dead wood. Mo Ely not good enough, JWP just does not achieve anything. Long and Austin would struggle in a championship side. Targett and Cedric both poor. Gunn is not invincible. Youngsters overwhelmed tonight. We don't seem to be playing as a team, just kick and chase. Another two-goal lead surrendered. Oh and great goal by Redmond.
1


SaintRiyadh added 17:58 - Jan 5

Started ok but at 2-0 needed to close it out for me Romeu should have been put on to ensure middle of park was solid the back line looked exposed at times

As for Mohammed With the header FFS
7


thrillseeker added 18:02 - Jan 5

Diabolical performance
0


SaintPaulVW added 20:00 - Jan 5

We just didn't look convincing. Redmond was great, Austin anonymous, JWP did some good stuff but he needs to bulk up and start winning tackles. Gunn showed that any keeper is vulnerable behind our back line. Ely's first touch is still awful. Vestergaard goes to ground too easily. Targett and Cedric didn't really inspire. The youngsters were pretty good and giving them a bit of game time and resting a few can't hurt.

We looked about par with Derby, which makes sense really. Our big problem is we can only be set up to either defend or attack. At the moment, we don't seem to be able to be set up to do both in a match. We really really need a few new faces.
3


Yorkshire_Dale added 20:51 - Jan 5

All to easy for Burton who were no great shakes themselves......as usual we concede early from a corner (the near post flick on that has undone us well in the past).....and shortly after the same goalscorer is left in acres of space to slot home where he wants,Lillis left flat out. Then we have a purple patch in 2nd half but we know it would n't last and Burton fire in a couple more as our powder -puff attack peters out to nothing.

Williams11 and Gillam did nothing,Inman cannot put a decent cross in and Ollie for all his effort is never more than a yellow from a sending off.

Over to you Maestro......what next?
1


blackvincent added 21:44 - Jan 5

Something is rotten in the state of Denmark!
1


1teeminants added 21:54 - Jan 5

I’m sure we will get a few faces in but it’s been made clear many times that we need to sell first . Once Gabbiadini and Davis have been moved on I expect movement inwards. Vestergaard is far to slow and gets easily turned he really is t good enough at this level and neither is Stephens imo. Time for Long to go too. Thanks for everything Shane but time to move on. As for Elynouusi I think he’s one of the worst signings I’ve ever seen. Shocking.
7


allsaint54 added 23:03 - Jan 5

Situation normal, start with JWP & we don't win. How many more games are we going to have to put up with him? What does he offer, absolutely nothing, and don't mention him being a dead ball specialist, how many goals do score from them. Please sell him tomorrow.
9


FaroSaint added 08:49 - Jan 6

Shockng display of ineptitude by Vestergaard he cannot pass and gave the ball away repeatedly. Targett had a mare and Ely just isnt good enough in his league .Only one player of any real class Redmond. Long and Austin ran around like headless chickens. Ward Prowse needs to learn how to shoot . Overall yet another game we should have won easily thrown away by slackness and poor defending the story of the year so far . Had we been playing a premier league side we would have been thrashed woeful defence .
4


AirFlorida added 09:52 - Jan 6

I'd argue that Redmond is more confident playing at championship level. Defo hold on to him if we end up going down!
0


SaintBrock added 10:34 - Jan 6

Truly pathetic performance, no wonder Hasenhüttl spent the whole match grimacing. Now knows what he has signed up to. Utter dross with only Redmond, Cedric and occasionally Mr Plod looking remotely like professional footballers.
5


SaintBrock added 10:40 - Jan 6

Time has certainly run its course for Long & Austin, can't see how they can recover from these feeble displays of non-involvement.
8


SanMarco added 11:30 - Jan 6

Lots of deadwood but we knew that already, Four 2 goal leads blown since Chelsea home at end of last season. Ings now out for a while (again). We need to strengthen - fast....
10


DPeps added 13:19 - Jan 6

There's a fundamental problem with putting faith in any new signings this month: the same people will be in charge of scouting and buying as before!
1


SaintNick added 21:36 - Jan 6

Too Many Kids ?????? In the starting 10 out field players they were all experienced pros, only Slattery had no experience
1


KriSaint added 13:46 - Jan 8

We should have closed the game with a third goal on the day instead of inviting Derby back by some seriously poor defending for the 1-2 Derby goal. The deep, flat pass into our box, setting up Lawrence for his assist, found its target - without intervention from 3 or 4 of our players who were just ball watching while wondering who might deal with the ball...
Better luck next time to the lads.
With Accerton Stangley from league 1 waiting for the winner we HAVE to win the re-match. Yes, I know we are in trouble in the league which should always have top priority, but nothing wrong with a nice FA cup run, which can boost confidence and - ultimately - bring us some silverware and participation in European football.
COYS!
I think the match ratings are a little harsh on some of our players. JWP and Slattery did more than ok as central midfielders, and You can tell JWP really tries to win his duels now, defending with his life.
0


I_would added 17:13 - Jan 12

Miracles do happen then. Ralph ought to get a knighthood.
7


mikesaint added 17:25 - Jan 12

Good win but why did he take Armstrong off and not Prowse? Armstrong was having a good game and as soon as he went off they scored. Prowse cant tackle and you need all players to be able to do that when you are down to ten men.
4


aceofthebase added 17:30 - Jan 12

A great result for everyone. Valery sent off for silly fouls and such a pity because he was playing well. The team responded with some brave defending by all.
Did I just see Long being awarded a penalty and then scoring a goal (with a little help from Schmeichel's hand?
Sam Gallagher played a few minutes and I hope he can get a regular spot when fully fit.
A real nail biter for 45 minutes but what a great result, Well done Saints
9


KriSaint added 17:55 - Jan 12

Great win and RH´s Premier League statistics after seven matches, in which we have played five top-7 teams, are 3-1-3. Brilliant. Today he got team selection and formation right again playing 5-4-1. Only minus was a (2 yellow) red card for inexperienced Yan Valery late in the first half.
With McCarthy back in goal our defence was well organized throughout the match and battled hard enough to defend our first half lead sufficiently with good help from our battling 4-man midfield. Up front Shane Long battled tiredlessly on his own and he managed to get both a penalty and his first season goal.
This win is another great boost for the team (and fans), and it really looks like we have got the manager selection right this time.
Still no room for Hoedt in the match squad despite Yoshidas absence as Ramsay got the nod (on the bench). Good to see big Sam Gallagher back in action as he came on late in the second half for his first PL minutes this season.

Difficult to pick a man of the match but my vote goes to Shane Long.
WELL DONE SAINTS :-)
8


NewburySaint added 18:26 - Jan 12

What a masterclass in how to play with 10 men while winning-well done Ralph, particularly in restoring McCarthy to the team but, more importantly, kudos to the 14, yes, even Valery, for the shift they put in today-please no criticism’s today guys!
9


SaintBrock added 19:06 - Jan 12

Valery is a stupid tit and let his side down badly today. How he is picked head of Cedric is anybody's guess but it seems if Ralph doesn't like you much then you're as good as dead meat. Must assume that rumours of Cedric being sold off to raise cash must be true. Probably gone by the weekend and we'll have to rely on Ramsey.

Otherwise, the usual clueless suspects Ward Prowse & Long score lucky goals and so we are stuck with them until summer at least.

If this is what our football is coming down to then I won't be making many more trips into town this season.
-16


DPeps added 19:20 - Jan 12

I cringed when I saw the starting line up, but so happy to be proved wrong!
5


SaintPaulVW added 20:45 - Jan 12

Good stuff! Not too sure why JWP is coming in for so much stick on here. He put a shift in today. Solid penalty, remember we don't always score them. He still needs to bulk up and win tackles though.

Big improvement for everyone today. RH has got them drilled well. Why Romeu didn't play under Hughes is beyond me, he's a beast! Vestergaard, Targett and Stephens although not flawless all took steps forward. Shame that Valery showed his age.

Very happy with that. 2nd half was edge of the seat stuff and great to see Shane make me eat my words about him. A few new additions, increasing confidence and a manager with a system will see us turn a corner. Phew! COYR!
8


KriSaint added 14:42 - Jan 13

This is not the time to critizise anyone in the team, BUT I have to agree with SaintBrock in one thing (though I´d use other language) ¨about Valery letting down the team. He did, and for me his sending off is not the only negative thing I can say about him after having observed him in several games this season. He seems to be a kinda old school full back with limited skills going forward (including limited pace). But ok, he is physically strong and positions himself ok in most situations (NOT in the West Ham game) + he is quite good in the air for a full back with his height , but, till´ now, nothing special about him at all, apart from his age, in my book. I hope it will come :-)

My friend, who is a ManU supporter, tells me to give him time, which I will, of course. He compares him to ManU former right back Mike Duxbury, who played for ManU in the 80´es and 90´es. Duxbury entered the scene as a very young RB and was given plenty of time (30-40 games) by Ferguson to find his feet in the team and show what he could do and convince everybody (including England manager at the time, Bobby Robson).
0


aceofthebase added 21:00 - Jan 13

For those that think Valery is poor the one certain fact is that Cedrid is a lot ,lot poorer and that makes Valery's future look very very bright
-1


DPeps added 23:08 - Jan 16

A few hours of my life I'm not getting back
5


I_would added 23:17 - Jan 16

Redmond back to his 'I'm only going to pass at gunpoint' bolix.
1


mikesaint added 23:22 - Jan 16

Well that was a missed opportunity. Still we learnt a few things. The kids are not ready for the premier League, we cant defend, Elyounoussi was a waste of money, Sam Gallagher has got no better and is still not good enough for the Premier League we also need to spend money on 2 or 3 new players.
9


codge added 23:45 - Jan 16

Unbelievable that we continue to do the same over and over. If this doesn't show what we have all been saying for over two seasons now this defense is in need of a major overhaul.As for Elyounoussi pathetic display again not one game has he showed any ability to play in this league and for the life of me don't understand how he is still here.Hope we can come through Saturday with a better result,thinking positive but this is so frickin frustrating.
9


TimSaint added 00:19 - Jan 17

So so many out of their depth tonight, in a jaded, static display that looked more like a Puel / Pell / Hughes team than a Ralf.

Some were too scared to express themselves and others showed they don't have the ability to perform, even against Championship opposition.

Annoyingly, we started so well too, but soon became pedestrian with a lack of pentration and drive.

Even so, we still did enough to win it in normal and extra time - but hey ho, didn't fancy driving to Acc so early on a Saturday anyway.

Poor miss from Redmond and hoped Gunn would have got a little closer to perhaps 1 of the 5 he faced, but so be it. Focus on the league and staying in the Prem now - but at least tonight shows we need shot of lots, some aren't ready and probably won't ever be and we need to buy experience in this window !!
7


allsaint54 added 00:19 - Jan 17

It was like playing with 9 men. Elly a complete waste again apart from 2 touches. 2 more assists from Cedric through inept defending. Time to offload these two & reinvest.
On the plus side another good all round performance from JWP ( & I'm one of his biggest critics). More of the same please. Gallagher didn't look to be the answer up front. Despite not setting the world alight we need to be patient with the kids.
2


KriSaint added 00:45 - Jan 17

We scored 2 in the second half and thereby went in front 2-0 and had the game under controle, but........ despite the fact that we have given away two 2-0 leads away earlier in the season and should have learned from this and avoided it happened for the third time, Derby manage to scored 2 and the match ended 2-2.
No further goals in extra time. Redmond missed his pen -> we lost.
Yes, we didn´t play our strongest starting 11, because we have an important match vs Everton in 3 days, BUT, I, who have follow and supported Saints since I was 12 in 1980, am very, very disappointed with this result.
Sh*t!
Let´s just hope, that this will not influence the momentum we have built up in the PL recently, and that RH has consolidated in his head, that we need at least 1 or 2 new players in this window, a new, very good CB being the most important purchase.
COYS!
3


SanMarco added 08:30 - Jan 17

2-0 leads are not our strong point. At least this sends the message that we need reinforcements loud and clear. Elyounoussi is proving to be a real Les Reed classic isn't he?

How many unmarked headers a few yards out did we let them have?
10


sidsaint added 09:55 - Jan 17

Very disappointed Redmond didn't pass with 2 players in front of an open goal. Nice goal he scored but missed a couple. I thought Ramsay showed promise and did not panic. Elyounoussi a big disappointment but JWP put in a good shift. Johnson has promise but needs more control. Now we have only the league to think about and lets hope our "stars" come back refreshed and on form for Saturday. Also RH must see we need to strengthen in the window.
3


mikesaint added 10:10 - Jan 17

Southampton signed Mohamed Elyounoussi for a reported £16m from Basel. This was to replace Dusan Tadic's £10m departure from the Saints to Ajax. Dusan Tadic has now played 36 games for Ajax and scored 18 goals with 9 assists what has Mohamed Elyounoussi done for Saints.
9


_ added 12:03 - Jan 17

I thought Romeu was our best player. He gets better and better.
8


saintjf added 12:17 - Jan 17

Derby had some really good youngsters playing along with some experienced players. They looked good at times and seemed to want the win more. We still look so fragile that we are better off putting all our energy into staying up.
4


SaintBrock added 19:15 - Jan 17

Ramsey is showing real promise, Gallagher & Slattery are not. For once WP looked more aggressive and determined and won are tackles. Romeu as usual putting in a shift and a half in both defence and attack. At times in the second half we looked a class above but soon ran out of steam and fell back into our old habits.
1


EDLiner added 19:34 - Jan 17

As RH said "If you are 2-0 up in both legs and fail to win, maybe you don't deserve to win". Too many fringe players in the team, Cedric is a right back and not a left back and you could see that certain players are not good enough. El younoussi was not even there for 3/4 of the match before he just did the odd good thing. Johnson put in a great cross for Long but was clearly removed at half time so he didnt get sent off. Sammy G offered nothing and Slattery looked totally lost. I thought JWP was great but apart from that a bit of an off day.
2


KriSaint added 20:46 - Jan 17

Our play was quiet fluent for the first 30 minutes of the second half. Some of the best I have seen this season. Stephens & Vesty played it nicely out from the back.

Gunn will be very disappointed with Derby´s first goal, I think. Nobody seemed to touch the ball from that cross into the box over our defence from the free kick, and the ball just ended in the back of the net :(
0


DelBollo added 20:57 - Jan 17

You moaning f***tards. Singling out players to be scapegoats for every bad result. That's the best you can do trying to explain what went wrong? Get some brains, and start backing the players and the team. You make me sick!
-5


KriSaint added 18:23 - Jan 19

Very good Saints team selection and formation with 3 in form industrial central midfielders of which 2 of them played 120 minutes 3 days ago without showing heavy legs today.
Annoying that we didn´t get a clean sheet in the end, but apart from that a great team performance. Let´s keep momentum and take one game at a time and see how far we can go.
Very happy to see JWP be successful and score such a great goal. I had the feeling that he would get a goal today from distance. He deserves it, and with 2 physically strong midfielders working close to him, he has a great platform to shine from.
5


SaintBrock added 19:14 - Jan 19

A scrappy ugly affair but Saints were clearly the better of two poor sides. Fatigue had obviously taken its toll on a few of our players and the rested ones were clearly more prominent and energetic, none-the-less most gave it 100% and that was good to see. I would have like to have seen more quality on the ball and a less frenetic (headless chicken?) approach to the game but we got a result and in the circumstances we couldn't ask for more.

Big shout out for JWP, who seems to be thriving under Hasenhüttl. MotM performance from Jan Bednarek who let nothing past him all day and won every header he went for with superb timing.
6


Geoff78 added 19:25 - Jan 19

Well, thought we'd have a good chance to win this, but we never got out of the traps. After 5 minutes PNE had 3 corners and we had hardly been in their half. I think our first proper attack, i.e. passing to another hooped shirt, progressing up the field, creating a chance, came in the 30th minute. We had a brief spell at the end of the first half when Freeman injected some energy, and the beginning of the second when Smith won a couple of flick ons, when we might have got going, but frankly PNE easily deserved this and could have had a 5th, but for Bidwell's saving tackle at the end.

Perhaps were saving ourselves for the cup!
0


sidsaint added 21:12 - Jan 19

good performance and an entertaining game. we are getting there under Ralf
3


enfieldargh added 21:19 - Jan 19

F U C K I N G
AWFUL
0


TimSaint added 21:29 - Jan 19

Great win today and good that it was despite going 2 up again - but hey we did that at Leicester too.

Everton offered little to be fair and we had the best of the chances throughout the game, including a couple of chances from Ings that were well saved, a Redmond why that hit the post and an interception that also hit the post.

We eventually took the lead early in the 2nd half. Great work from JWP to win the ball in the middle of the park and he then used strength I didn't know he had, to shrug off a challenge, take the ball on and then lash it into the top left corner from 22 yards.

The 2nd arrived courtesy of another interception / tackle that went towards goal. This time it went in instead of hitting the post. I thought Redmond got it initially, but the shrugging celebration kind of gave it away !!

Surprised at how poor Everton were, or how poor we made them look. Their 2 x £40+m superstars were totally ineffective (despite Sigurdsson tap in) and as for Richarlison, he was the worst player on the pitch and was rightly subbed.

Everton changed things towards the end and threatened a little and eventually pulled one back as we went into injury time when a ball into the box wasn't cleared and it fell to Sigurdsson. It wouldn't have mattered as much if Long hadn't seen his close range volley well saved, but we held on again for not only a win, but a home win !!

Good to have PEH back, who made a difference in the middle. Most of the team did well though, especially as some had played for 2 hours on Wednesday.

I don't know what the ref was doing near the end - not only going to collect the ball for Everton, but then allowing them to take a free kick from the wrong place in injury time (we've got previous after all).

Nice break now to rest and work on Ralfesque tactics. Some key games coming up and we can into them with confidence.
8


tsbains64 added 23:07 - Jan 19

We looked like we were playing Brazil in disguise
0


SaintPaulVW added 06:09 - Jan 20

2 off the post, 2 goals, Redmond Handbags, a solid defense and a JWP blemmer. I just can't get enough! COYR!
1


smegma added 09:40 - Jan 20

QPRish-ness strikes again and again. And again.Never scored a goal for your club ?? So THREE players broke their duck for PNE. QPR, the defence that keeps giving.
0


allsaint54 added 11:12 - Jan 20

Great result. Must mention 2 players. I've been 1 of JWP's harshest critics over the last couple of years but his performances of late have bee superb, what a transformation - tackling , driving forward & showing his creative side. Plus a great goal as well. Also Bednarek put in another great effort. Why MH & MP couldn't see his virtues shows the difference with RH in charge. Looking forward to rest of the season, onwards & upwards.
2


mattthelegend added 11:38 - Jan 20

100% commitment all over the pitch Bednarek, PEH, JWP were all impressive . WTF was Hughes doing apart from stealing a living and a life times retirement from us???????. The change is beyond belief 6 points from two games when we would have been looking at 4 max 2 minimum from. You can say Everton were poor but then we made them look poor with continued pressing and at times slick passing. UTS 😇
2


MickB added 12:21 - Jan 20

Scowen seems to be getting most of the blame for the opener, though Lumley's short service looked very ill-advised. No matter, both have done well for us and made few mistakes, so should be forgiven. What I find more difficult to accept is the way in which the midfield let the game pass them by. I agree with others that Eze looks like he needs a break or at least a better of how he might 'interfere with play' more often.. Cousins looked semi - detached which is surprising because, even after a few marginally better performances, he still has a lot to prove.

I would rest Eze, drop Cousins, move Freeman into the centre behind Wells, try Manning alongside Scowen and start BOS on the flank. But then, what do I know?
1


dachiltern added 13:46 - Jan 20

One to forget
0


forallthesaints added 18:38 - Jan 20

Great atmosphere and so much intensity (for most of the game) from all the Saints players. Bednarek playing again is like having a new player. He's been excellent since his return. Stephens is in good form and a couple of marauding runs show just how much more forward looking the whole team is. Great to see JWP finally finding some form beyond the odd game. I'm not getting overexcited but the last few weeks have been so much more positive. All we need now is a partner for Ings and to move on those who are surplus to requirements - top of that list has to be Austin.
0


cockneyswan added 19:52 - Jan 26

Gillingham were totally outclassed by a dominat Swansea, the only critisism of the Swans were probably finding the game too easy and we’re not clinical enough, and not converting enough chances into goals. They also allowed Gillingham back into the game at 2-1. But fair play after that wobble they pressed on and won conmfortably.
1


Badlands added 21:39 - Jan 26

Appalling conditions but still a decent game.
Grimes my MOM - McBunie seemed to get through a lot of work but missed so many chances. Took his goals well.
Apart from ignoring 2 nailed on penalties I thought the officials were good, better than we usually get.
1


windsorloop added 11:36 - Jan 27

We had the wrong Smith/Smyth playing for QPR
0


Geoff78 added 11:39 - Jan 27

Although not a great game it was enjoyable, in spite of some endless head tennis in midfield. I thought Oteh did ok with a couple of good runs and Manning seemed to be feeling his way back into the team. He was one of the main proponents of the head tennis. Hopefully he'll get the ball down more in future games.

It's difficult to know how good or bad the performance was as it's hard to know how strong Pompey were, but given they were missing several first teamers Rs should have done better.
0


codge added 23:31 - Jan 30

Thought we looked very ordinary for most of the game, we still need help in the back and really not impressed yet in Valery or Targett or Stephens, we were lucky in the end to get a point.Hopefully we will bring someone still as we could still use someone up front as well.At least we were able to grind out a point which we would not have got under Hughes.
6


KriSaint added 00:52 - Jan 31

Tough match. Pretty fair result. I didn´t see much pressing or gegen-pressing today. McCarthy probably should have saved the shot from Saha (the small diver/winer) and Valery definetely should have put in a tackle to avoid the shot. Versatile JWP scoring for the third match in a row is a good thing.
5


saintjf added 09:23 - Jan 31

Looked a bit like a relegation scrap to me. Palace are no push over and Saints did well to get a point with too many Saints players below there best. We really do need a central defender. A frustrated crowd did not help either.
6


Bridders2 added 11:05 - Jan 31

Hodgson brought a very well organised and compact Crystal palace team. Their forwards stayed well back making it even harder for us to penetrate their defensive wall, and always looking like Zaha and Townsend could break out and hurt us, so a very cagey game with little of the high press we've been used to.
The only period of real sustained pressure came in a 10 minute period which resulted in JWP's goal. All three of our centre backs made bad mistakes pondering on the ball but luckily they didn't lead to us conceding, which heightened the need for a new CB to come in. A draw was a fair result.
2


I_would added 12:03 - Jan 31

We need 2 full backs, CB instead of Stephens, 2 AM's and striker today. Some hope eh.
4


mikesaint added 12:48 - Jan 31

Well that game showed that we are short of good players we still need a good striker and central defender. Jack Stephens is a accident waiting to happen and should have been sent off last night. Lets hope we are busy today in the transfer market. Might be time to start Gunn.
4


SaintBrock added 13:53 - Jan 31

I assume taking Valery off was a sign to the board of RH's frustration at not securing the transfer of a RB target in this window i.e., this kid is not good enough yet.

Very poor all round
3


SaintBrock added 17:18 - Feb 2

Trying to defend a 1-0 lead for 20 minutes is a stupid and futile plan.
5


mikesaint added 17:22 - Feb 2

Should have bought a centre half then Stephens would not be playing. He is always an accident waiting to happen.
5


I_would added 17:31 - Feb 2

An absolutely appalling game. Stephens shouldn't be there. Long is the worst player I've ever seen and JWP just chases shadows. I was just thinking how did we win that terrible game? And then a childish handball killed it. If anyone is still talking to him I'd be very surprised.
6


codge added 17:32 - Feb 2

Lost for words how do we manage to do stupid sh-t to lose games l am just amazed.Only us it seems can do stuff to ourselves, although this was a make up call that they didn't get in the first half.The mistake of not getting a goalscorer in the window looks to be a possible big mistake l hope not.Redmond still on a hot streak though than goodness as we will be in a lot of trouble if not for him at the moment.Agree with SaintBrock trying to defend a 1 goal lead was asking for trouble.
5


Boris1977 added 17:50 - Feb 2

Ummmm. We didn't lose? 4 PTS dropped against rivals, with Cardiff up next. We all know what the issues are and they haven't been addressed. I mentioned a few days ago that our only two strikers are prone to injury and not buying cover looked foolish and a dangerous gamble. I feel sick and bloody cold. We'll stay up because we have a manager who is doing incredible things with an average squad and 4 or 5 teams are worse than us - for now.
2


SaintBrock added 18:00 - Feb 2

Trying to defend a 1-0 lead for 20 minutes is a stupid and futile plan.
0


KriSaint added 18:09 - Feb 2

Scrappy game against primitive Burnley.
After having screamed into a pillow for half a minute I´m satisfied with our point today, but for f***s sake Saints......, why are we so bad at defending a lead? Yes, it was probably more a freekick to Stephens because of a push than an illegal hand ball, but what was his hand doing up there? Great goal by Redmond.
MOTM for me: Vestergaard. Very disappointed with Long who couldn´t hold the ball for a second and didn´t look like wanting to run much. Where was Galllagher in the squad for a type of game like this? Very proud, though, with 7 academy players in the match squad, 4 of them starting.
I agree with the ref, that it was NOT a penalty for Barnes in the first half, the diving chromosome lacking garbage player.
3


Boris1977 added 18:20 - Feb 2

Ummmm. We didn't lose? 4 PTS dropped against rivals, with Cardiff up next. We all know what the issues are and they haven't been addressed. I mentioned a few days ago that our only two strikers are prone to injury and not buying cover looked foolish and a dangerous gamble. I feel sick and bloody cold. We'll stay up because we have a manager who is doing incredible things with an average squad and 4 or 5 teams are worse than us - for now.
0


Boris1977 added 18:30 - Feb 2

Ummmm. We didn't lose? 4 PTS dropped against rivals, with Cardiff up next. We all know what the issues are and they haven't been addressed. I mentioned a few days ago that our only two strikers are prone to injury and not buying cover looked foolish and a dangerous gamble. I feel sick and bloody cold. We'll stay up because we have a manager who is doing incredible things with an average squad and 4 or 5 teams are worse than us - for now.
0


saintjf added 21:24 - Feb 2

Why do we always think we are going to beat the teams around us? We are where we are for a reason. We are not good enough to progress any further than the teams around us. We keep thinking we are going to get 3 points here and 3 points there. We are not a lot better than the teams around us. We are in a relegation scrap. When Stevens (who is quite frankly hopeless as seen at the Palace game) was talked up by the manager some of us wondered whether it meant we were not going to sign a new centre back. We have not signed a new centre back. We are going to have to rely on spirit to be sure of staying up.
3


SanMarco added 21:31 - Feb 2

Not sure we were that bad today. Very disappointing to lose 2 pts to the last kick of the match but we deserved at least a point. Next week is a real 16 pointer...
2


Mrangry25 added 09:58 - Feb 3

Not sure what to say about today really, what is it that our players dont get, a few weeks back we played the ball forwards with speed, we closed down, we had movement!!!, a couple later and we seemed to have slipped back to Puel days, sideways backwards. We lack the ability to get round the back of them on both wings because Ward-prowse and Targett haven't got the pace. Stephens has gone backwards in my opinion a couple of seasons ago both he and Yoshida were brilliant when VVD got injured what has he been told?. Vestergard had a good game, Ings injured again!!!, I could write a thesis on Long but what is the point RH seems to think he is a worldbeater. Redmond was a pain but I still think he could do more for us. Our midfield coped ok but we miss Lamina. We were under a lot of pressure in the last 20 minutes with them just playing the Watford long ball into the box at every opportunity which we seemed to struggle with. Overall I will take a point but with Cardiff winning, next weeks game really is a must.
6


AirFlorida added 10:41 - Feb 3

Would have taken a point beforehand as they're a tough spirited team. But to draw in the final min leaves a bitter taste. It now shows how important it was to get all 3 points from Palace. From being a few seconds from being well clear of the drop zone we could be back in it if Cardiff beat us next week. Yes it keeps our unbeaten run going but EVERY TIME we have a chance to pull clear and start looking up we choke.
1


aceofthebase added 10:46 - Feb 3

Crouch clearly fouling Stephens by holding and pulling his shirt, (side-on photos prove this) the natural reaction is to raise your hand. Stephens being unjustly blamed.
-2


DPeps added 11:49 - Feb 3

Weird one. Many of us would've taken a draw before the game, but in context the result feels disappointing (again).

And agree with Ace about Crouch fouling Stephens. Refs are encouraged to give strikers benefit of the doubt, but it gets ridiculous sometimes!

Ings is injured again. I've said on here before that it's a gamble to rely on our current strikers. I don't have any problem with any of them individually, but Austin and Ings have major injury issues, Long (we know the specific problem there), and Obafemi is too inexperienced to depend on. Getting rid of Gabbi was fair enough, but failing to replace him may cost us.
5


SaintBrock added 11:58 - Feb 3

It's ironic that Bertrand cannot get back on the bench even, because (rumour has it) he isn't fast enough for Hasenhüttl. With Targett and Ward Prowse hard pressed to out-run a tortoise and the latter clearly chickening out of two hard running tackles which he should have won, you'd have to conclude that there is a lot more in Bertie's absence than just running speed.

Meanwhile we have no option it seems other than to field the comedy trio of Stephens (Mr Mug), Ward Prowse (Mr Plod) & Targett (Mr Dim) despite it being glaringly obvious to a very large number of fans that at best these players would struggle to get into most Championship sides. Can we really believe the Herr Hasenhüttl really believes these players are our future.
1


helpineedsomebody added 13:53 - Feb 3

in my opinion burnley just play championship football stop go /hit long balls forward work hard to win the second ball , stoping the flow of the game , chances corners /free kicks etc etc. all so if you look at the player who dived to win a penalty if you look closely at his left foot there seems to be a double movement or simulation thats why it was no penalty & quite rightley booked .
look forward to seeing what dermott says on sky tommorow morning
1


KriSaint added 15:26 - Feb 3

Short respons to Mr. SaintBrock: I agree with You apart from your view on JWP.
I think he is a "late blossomer" and will reach his peak under RH within the next season or so as a defensive midfielder and stand-in right back with his peak competances being running, blocking, passing, dead balls and assisting goals besides getting minimum 5 goals per season. Just my opinion. Please consider giving him your back up.
-2


off2div1 added 16:03 - Feb 3

How come their average is a lot higher than the Dales
0


LeTissIwish added 02:37 - Feb 4

He certainly gets my back up!
2


beynali73 added 17:06 - Feb 9

What is there to say? Don't win games without strikes. What a luxury to have players who can come off the bench and change the game. Embarrassing.
7


I_would added 17:07 - Feb 9

Is Hughes still available?
-1


CanadaDale added 17:10 - Feb 9

No creativity and composure
2


beynali73 added 17:17 - Feb 9

Hughes up front could work
4


vanmans added 17:22 - Feb 9

All the talk about getting 9 points from the last 3 games and what did we get 2!!! It looks like not buying a striker and a defender in the transfer window was a BIG mistake. The manager talks a good game but today the players looked the same as they have done in last 2 years. Why when we were losing did he take a striker off to bring Austin on? If teams like Cardiff are doing the double over us we don't deserve to be in the Premier League.
11


NewburySaint added 17:30 - Feb 9

Put your positive spin on that Nick!

The lack of activity in to the club during the transfer window has really been evident in the last 3 games as to what we’ve been left with-you can’t polish a turd after all however good a manager RH is...,,,
13


DPeps added 17:32 - Feb 9

3 winnable games: 2 points, 2 goals conceded in injury time, zero decent performances. Concerning
11


KriSaint added 17:35 - Feb 9

What a punch in the fase.
We equalise in injury time from a tap in from Stephens and 2 minutes later Stephens gives the ball away in a dangerous which leads to Cardiff scoring the winner by a player who never scored in the PL before. Don´t know what to say about it right now....
9


janecook added 17:36 - Feb 9

Looks like Ralph Hasenhuttl has been stitched up by the board in not spending any money on new players.
Relegation now looks a big possibility when all we have is strikers who cant score and defenders who cant defend.

13


beynali73 added 17:42 - Feb 9

I'm afraid to say that it's over. The same issues happen most weeks with missed chances, soft goals gifted to the opposition. The transfer window spoke volumes. This does remind me of the poorviett/watte era. The lack of investment, getting experienced players off the books and bringing the youth through before they were ready e.g. mcgoldrick and blackstock etc. The guardian described saints passing as comical which prefixed with tragi describes the last three seasons. All the respect we once had is now pity at best and pathetic at worst. The defence issue will not change, an effective reliable striker will not be solved, the new manager bounce has gone we need to prepare for prexit. After all we are a 'small club's (TM Ralph)
9


codge added 17:46 - Feb 9

Same mistakes can't clear the ball out of defense,we still look weak defending corners.With the height we have you would think we could win the ball in the air but when you have a player
6 ft 8 in that can't get more than 2 inches of the ground you get beaten all the time.This was a perfect example of being short handed up front which should not of happened, was glad to see Bertrand back though and was ok.We still seem to give the ball away far to much though and need to sought that out.
3


beynali73 added 17:48 - Feb 9

I'm afraid to say that it's over. The same issues happen most weeks with missed chances, soft goals gifted to the opposition. The transfer window spoke volumes. This does remind me of the poorviett/watte era. The lack of investment, getting experienced players off the books and bringing the youth through before they were ready e.g. mcgoldrick and blackstock etc. The guardian described saints passing as comical which prefixed with tragi describes the last three seasons. All the respect we once had is now pity at best and pathetic at worst. The defence issue will not change, an effective reliable striker will not be solved, the new manager bounce has gone we need to prepare for prexit. After all we are a 'small club's (TM Ralph)
2


Martianwildpants added 17:52 - Feb 9

Boring. Calvin galling over his own feet and sadly lacking at this level. Delaney not good enough at all either and therefore two men down from the off. We were poor. Hendo - rare poor performance from him.
1


Yorkshire_Dale added 18:03 - Feb 9

The Maestro referred to this as the Main Event......turned out to be yet again another Home damp squid!

Really poor show again.....Our dilemma is that we have a squad with some talent but they are loanees and we have to play our own donkeys because rules is rules. Our lot are still used to getting dicked at home.

PS Well done Jim McNulty.....did ok today.
-1


aceofthebase added 18:15 - Feb 9

This thing we have about a massive improvement and the player's great improvement is like a version of 'The Emperors New clothes'. In reality, nothing has changed, similar style, similar going nowhere moves, similar can't concentrate for 95minutes, similar careless passes, Cant score.
The big change is the manager can talk the talk and he has introduced a few academy players.
What has definitely not changed is there is a real possibility of relegation
11


no7saint added 18:35 - Feb 9

I'm normally a happy clapper but feel dejected after that. After last week's handball cost us 3 points, Stephens gave the game to a limited but organised Cardiff with a sloppy pass when momentum had swung back our way. Despite lots of possession we didn't look like scoring and really missed Ings. PEH had an off day and Cardiff had worked out that if they shut Redmond out we'd struggle to create. Ralph had few options on the bench to change the game, I'm struggling to see the point of Elyanoussi.
14


SaintPaulVW added 18:39 - Feb 9

Oh dear. Jack Stephens hero to villain in 2 minutes.

Thought we were lacking in all departments today.

I thought it would be nip and tuck until the end of the season. Sadly I think I was right.

'Prexit' laughing through the tears. COYR
9


RooleyMoorBlue added 18:44 - Feb 9

Bloody awful, clueless, shapeless, no direction, no effort until one down and substitutions were laughable. Time for Mr Hill to leave while he still has some credit left.
1


no7saint added 19:07 - Feb 9

I'm normally a happy clapper but feel dejected after that. After last week's handball cost us 3 points, Stephens gave the game to a limited but organised Cardiff with a sloppy pass when momentum had swung back our way. Despite lots of possession we didn't look like scoring and really missed Ings. PEH had an off day and Cardiff had worked out that if they shut Redmond out we'd struggle to create. Ralph had few options on the bench to change the game, I'm struggling to see the point of Elyanoussi.
-1


no7saint added 19:07 - Feb 9

I'm normally a happy clapper but feel dejected after that. After last week's handball cost us 3 points, Stephens gave the game to a limited but organised Cardiff with a sloppy pass when momentum had swung back our way. Despite lots of possession we didn't look like scoring and really missed Ings. PEH had an off day and Cardiff had worked out that if they shut Redmond out we'd struggle to create. Ralph had few options on the bench to change the game, I'm struggling to see the point of Elyanoussi.
-1


sandywelsh added 19:21 - Feb 9

The team we have got now would struggle to win a game in the Championship.
4


TimSaint added 19:24 - Feb 9

Back to the Puelesque displays again. Pedestrian, no urgency, no real threat up top.

Spent virtually the whole game trying to break a team down, but still have far too many defensively minded players on the pitch. Cardiff were obviously going to defend deeply, so why not play 442, or have more creative forward players ?

Cardiff frustrated and time wasted for 70 mins and then decided to venture into out box. A stupidly conceded corner and Vest gifted Cardiff another goal allowing them to take the lead. Still no urgency, yet when we drove in their box we looked like scoring. (Red / Valery etc) Most players still either want to walk it in, or pass when it is better to shoot or vice versa, or don't want the responsibility of shooting.

After equalising at the start of injury time, I actually thought we may go on to win it, but for the 2nd week running in injury time, a Stephens error has cost us valuable points.

I could go on about other individuals, but what is the point. Complacency, team selection, poor tactics, individual errors and poor finishing has cost us again.

Enjoy Tenerife and make sure you get us a surprise result at Arsenal.

.....we need it as Burnley are currently 3-1 up at Brighton and we are 3rd bottom !!
6


saintjf added 19:45 - Feb 9

Yes we are in the relegation zone and we deserve to be. So many poor performances. It is worthwhile reading the press and listening to the pundits sometimes. The bottom line is that If you play a striker of very limited ability who never scores why would you expect him to score. The honeymoon is over Ralph. You have your work cut out keeping the team we saw today up. Anyone really surprised?
8


forallthesaints added 19:46 - Feb 9

I don't remember feeling worse after a game than today. Palace last year perhaps but at least in that game, we knew for the whole of the second half that it was coming. We totally outplayed an awful Cardiff team for the first half but barely had a sniff in front of goal. Second half was more of the same for the first half hour and then as soon as Cardiff came out to play, we struggled. Yes we're short of a striker but there were chances in the second half but no one was prepared to have a real dig until Valery's run. Hojbjerg was all over the place today. Yes he won the ball several times and put himself about but on at least 5 occasions just passed the ball to open space, twice of those could have led to decent chances if he'd checked to see someone was there! Long did some good work but lost the ball too easily on occasion, Bertrand the same. Valery had his best game for us and seemed to have the confidence to take people on but his crossing is still an issue. It was good to see Stephens and Vestergaard marauding forward in the first half and they created danger but didn't do it second half. Good to see Bertrand back and he had a decent game - didn't pull up trees but he is still a classy player. Substitutions were a bit odd - Austin is a total waste of space and did nothing, Elyounoussi has proved to be a waste of money - he has done nothing this season. Gallagher didn't have a chance to do anything. For me he should have been on before Austin. He'll never establish himself on 10 minutes every now and then. Cardiff were wasting time and diving around from the start and Atkinson fell for it most times. He was awful. He's always awful but today he outshone himself and gave the worst refereeing display I've seen this season. Utterly gutted but somehow I still think we'll stay up. Huddersfield have gone, Cardiff will not sustain their current run, God knows what Newcastle will do, Brighton are being dragged in and Fulham will continue to leak goals for fun.
7


dachiltern added 19:54 - Feb 9

Voting on two different halves of football, interesting.
0


saintjf added 19:56 - Feb 9

Yes we are in the relegation zone and we deserve to be. So many poor performances. It is worthwhile reading the press and listening to the pundits sometimes. The bottom line is that If you play a striker of very limited ability who never scores why would you expect him to score. The honeymoon is over Ralph. You have your work cut out keeping the team we saw today up. Anyone really surprised?
1


Phil_looks_sharp added 20:13 - Feb 9

This mentality has been with Southampton FC going back to 2005. When Redknapp was in charge we bought Ricardo Fuller for £95000 to ‘save’ our Premier status.
Fast forward 13 years
We are in trouble at the foot of the table
A transfer window opens allowing us to shore up the Squad
This time ..... we did NOTHING
This club cannot break out of its own pre-conceived image of itself.
We ARE a small club as far as the Chairmen are concerned (Lowe/Krueger) but we still are the 29th ‘richest’ club in Europe!
If we had bought (or had funds available to buy) a decent striker and a decent Centre back in the Tansfer window it would have given us more of a chance. It’s just totally unacceptable.
10


mikesaint added 21:01 - Feb 9

Well what can I say goals win games. Che Adams scored a first half hat-trick today to move onto 19 league goals this season. Big mistake not to buy him for what ever price Birmingham wanted for him!!
7


KriSaint added 21:14 - Feb 9

After having screamed into a pillow most of the evening, I am now able to relax a little. Let´s be honest: Cardiff were very lucky with this win. We had NO luck. How Valery´s run didn´t end with us scoring, I simply don´t understand.
How Stephens can be so unlucky in injury time 2 weeks in a row, beats me.
It wasn´t Vestergaard who lost the airial duel leading to Cardiff´s first goal, but Hojbjerg.
Austin was not useless. He got an assist.
Where was Armstrong and Simms today???
I am not sure McCarthy can be blamed for anything. Why all the bad ratings for him?
0


SanMarco added 21:37 - Feb 9

I wish Nick luck in finding a positive in that catastrophe. Of course a dreadful performance and a disastrous result have got us all down and depressed but what worries me is that Ralph in his after match rant seemed genuinely surprised that our defence is useless. Ten days ago he was happily telling us we hadn't needed to strengthen during the window.

The wisdom of the January inactivity will be the issue for the rest of the season - it is all on a bit of a knife-edge now. Those centre-backs are not going to get any better and our attacking options are very limited. I would take 17th on goal difference after 38 games.
6


Geoff78 added 22:03 - Feb 9

In spite of being 4 down just before half time this is a game Rs should have won! They must have had 7 or 8 decent chances or made Lee Camp work v hard in the second half. And of course the penalty.
What we learnt:
*BOS didn't take his chance and his poor defensive work was a major liability.
*Smith did ok - we've always known that with decent delivery he'll score goals. He should have had more or at least a couple of assists. But he is largely a one-trick pony.
*Scowen has been exposed and his future at the club must be in doubt. Although he put in some good performances last season I was never really convinced. Seeing Cameron in that role has made Scowen's deficiencies all too obvious. We need more muscle there + Scowen compensates by giving away too many fouls/cards.
*Lynch + Hall together weren't robust enough. In the first half we were crying out for a Big 'Friendly' German to stand up to Adams, etc. This is v significant for the future if we can't rely on them.
*Cousins had a positive second half - probably his best for us and a cracking goal.
*With Hall fit is 3 at the back the way forward... Maybe?
*Terrific spirit at the club
*Plaudit to the gaffer for making dramatic half time changes - arguably could have done so even earlier.
1


JimmyMeliaPhD added 22:24 - Feb 9

Hassenhuttl may well save us in the end, but it's not as if he's not making mistakes. Today he was out-strategised by Warnock who set up a defensive shape as expected, but instead of adding attacks on the break he added man-marking. Saints didn't respond at all well. We kept playing a flat line upfront that was supposed to encourage for balls over and behind the defence, but none of those balls ever happened. RH also messed up with the starting line-up, I think. Too defensive in midfield. And putting Shane Long in the starting XI is a mark of insanity whenever it happens and with whatever manager. Long had the kind of game today that surely makes his apologists ("yes, he doesn't score, but he does all kinds of other things for the team") want to eat their words and crawl into a hole. I'm picking on him to begin with because as soon as the XI was announced it was obvious we'd be lucky to score a goal in this match. That meant that what did happen was inevitable--if we concede we give up points. The fact that we equalized and then made another late concession shows it's no accident. And it's no accident that the man responsible for late concession both this week and last week was Stephens. Despite his having a mostly solid game, and even scoring a goal, he's a liability in the end. Aside from Long and Stephens (and the totally clueless Elyounoussi), nobody stood out. Our best players had average games, to put it kindly.
5


geraldo added 23:06 - Feb 9

Didn't realise how much Rafferty contributed in an attacking sense until today. Mc Laughlin is a very poor replacement - very average in defence and offers nothing going forward
1


JimmyMeliaPhD added 00:23 - Feb 10

I just read this comment on another forum and I don't know who BrotherLead is but I realised he has distilled a lot of my pain in to 2 short sentencces:
Remember 2 years ago we could never score with Long and Austin, which gravitated into last season as well? And here we are, still having to rely on the gruesome twosome up front.
3


PezzaSaint added 09:29 - Feb 10

Cardiff must have been really scared when they saw that Shane Long was leading the line for us?!!! You can’t question Shane’s endeavour, but you can question his ability at this level! You could hear the laughter in the crowd at Leicester, when he scored we knew we were going to win. We need to change the Manager before he will score again and I like Ralph and hope he is with us for a while and so don’t expect another Shane Long goal for a ‘long’ time!!
5


Westender added 09:52 - Feb 10

Poor display. Sorry but tactically you were left wanting today. Three centre backs watching the game from afar leaving us light in midfield.
Valery who apart from one decent was dreadful was too far advanced and spent most of the game ‘marking’ their left back. What this did was mean that Valery was not available as an outlet to the midfield. The second symptom of Valery being hopelessly inept was that their left back was able to sit deep and prevent and balls going into the channels for Redmond to run into or give him space to run into.
Hilarious that Valery is voted MOM on here! People just don’t watch the game closely enough and vote on one or two moments rather than watching the match in detail.
1


SaintBrock added 19:49 - Feb 10

Not sure we can quite make 20th but we'll give it a damn good try
1


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0


Addinall added 15:07 - Feb 16

For me Wells should have given way for Eze rather than Wszolek. Eze is not of a defending nature and is more dangerous further forward.
0


windsorloop added 15:26 - Feb 16

I agree with Addinall, Wells was playing with little confidence & I believe Wszolek must have been instructed to cross immediately he had the ball, this was never productive. His natural game was to go pass the defender & cross from the by line, more effective as Smith would not be caught offside.
2


Geoff78 added 23:20 - Feb 16

Rs did very well, but the sort of game where our bad luck equals a team from the league above being just a little bit sharper at crucial moments. Freeman MOTM, but all the team did well until tiring towards the end.
0


macro added 23:30 - Feb 23

For arguments sake you could say that the referee cost us a point against Wimbledon and then today at 1-1 a debatable sending off quickly followed by a blatant handball costs us. This although true cannot hide us from the glaring facts that Lonergan despite conceding 9 (NINE) has been the best player last 2 games and that Dale are shot. Confidence has gone, players aren’t up to it.
The first half today was one of the worst performances seen in a long time. Every fan I spoke to a half-time was ultra critical. As it stands at the moment I cannot see survival and I was positive all through last season. Unfortunately though I don’t think the board have the balls to sack Hill and that we will stumble on to relegation and trips to Crawley next season.
1


I_would added 17:22 - Feb 24

Anyone got the Samaritan's no?
2


claus5 added 17:37 - Feb 24

Relegation looking a very real possibility now, Christ knows what they work on in training? If we stay up this season at least ten players need to be got rid of. Sadly we have no one in the entire squad who could argue if the manager decided they were surplus to requirements. Even our better players are average at best, many of them would struggle even in the Championship. I hope we can stay up and that the manager stays, if this happens I pray he is given the means to totally transform the squad.
8


codge added 17:39 - Feb 24

I don't know about Tenerife more like Good Grief,if this doesn't get Stephens dropped after another pathetic display l don't know what would. Another screw up that caused 2 goals to be scored again.Only Bednarek played with commitment and thank God for him otherwise it could of been 6 goals.I don't want to hear how well we played in the second half it's a 90 minutes game not 45minutes.
10


NewburySaint added 17:44 - Feb 24

Unfortunately RH has to take a lot of blame for this defeat by picking Stephens who was directly at fault for both Arsenal goals-to be fair he probably would’ve expected more from him after trusting him so i’m sure he won’t make that mistake again.....

Positives? A 15 minute intense, angry, aggressive start to the 2nd Half. & our goal difference didn’t take a bashing.

P.s don’t boo your own players during the game a la Stephens however bad they are.
5


helpineedsomebody added 17:56 - Feb 24

have to do away with this 5 at the back with jack stephens & the other mistake to happen yoshi better to play 2 up front that way at the very leist you put pressure up front.
our midfield is perfect but every week its the back 3 thats very weak & now we have only one legged cart horses yes they can score but they put so much pressure on the backs by being far to slow .

its time to put ryan at the centre of defence or even oriol it simple cant be any worse / or even play 3 upfront goals wins games / not bloody draws
0


SaintBrock added 18:15 - Feb 24

Simply dreadful. A totally inept performance from beginning to end. If this is the best we can do then we deserve to go down.

Hasenhüttl has had enough time to fix things but he seems to be having no more success than his predecessors. Not surprising really when he starts with Stephens, Ward Prowse, Targett and Valery and has no recognised fit strikers.

Today's mystery was his removal of Armstrong at HT when the guy was having a half decent game whereas others like the hapless and woeful Ward Prowse was left on the pitch to continue his team spectator role?

Why doesn't somebody put Austin out of his misery by not embarrassing the poor sod by putting him on the pitch to look like the clodhopper he has become.

7


saintjf added 19:30 - Feb 24

I am not sure when we cant beat are relegation rivals whether anybody really expected anything from a visit to Arsenal. However it does seem so disappointing how we gift the opposition goals. Keeping the goals down to 2 could be crucial in staying up. I am really struggling to find any enthusiasm at the moment. Only good news of the day was Puel been given the boot by Leicester. Saints made the right decision in hindsight as has been proved with Leicester's strange form.
3


JimmyMeliaPhD added 21:56 - Feb 24

Not that anybody was expecting us to win, but a point would have been nice, and it seems to me it could have been possible. But the usual story...we can't score goals so a couple of mistakes at the back mean defeat. I said this here before, that it might be the case that Hasenhuttl will save us, but that doesn't mean he doesn't make mistakes. In fact, it's not very encouraging to think that this is the performance we get from his team right after he's just had 2 clear weeks to sort things out. His biggest error, of course, is sticking with Stephens who, not content with giving away a goal every game, has now upped it to two! But I think RH makes wrong decisions quite often. The JWP, Armstrong Redmond format was never going to work, and when it didn't he made another mistake by taking off Armstrong. I'm agnostic about Gunn...people seem to like him better than McCarthy, but that's an opinion based on scant evidence. And finally, let's face it, it's the manager's error to put Obafemi on if his injury hadn't properly healed! The only bright spot all day was not seeing Long in the squad!
4


SanMarco added 23:07 - Feb 24

This defence could get us relegated - lose to Fulham and the 'could' becomes 'will' in my view. RH publicly stated that he was happy with not signing anyone in January. I think he was lying - because if he wasn't then I think he was extremely over-confident or even foolish.

It really has reached the stage where I am desperate for a player that I don't rate very highly (Yoshi) to come back into the side. If we do survive then major surgery is needed. I would also reckon that some of the better players further up the pitch may well decide they've had enough. They have an even better view of our CBs than we do...
6


KriSaint added 21:31 - Feb 25

We never recovered from our bad start. We could have scored 2 goals though, but wasn´t to be. Glad we weren´t trashed after that bad start.
0


Fakaff added 04:03 - Feb 27

All you facking boo-boys!: Have you ever consider teaming up? "The Southampton School of Idiots"?
0


MickB added 08:53 - Feb 27

The player ratings suggest that people are getting a bit carried away with this performance and in particular by the 2nd half. In the first half R's looked (understandably) underconfident and shakey. Lots of credit to the centre halves, Mas & Pav for attitude & in particular & Luke for just about everything. But performances from others looked nervous & pedestrian, Ez doesn't seem to know what he is supposed to do and I have now lost faith in Hemed. Is he even trying?
0


smegma added 10:02 - Feb 27

As previous post , No starters got less than 6 ??? Referee is currently on 4.9 ?? Best ref we've had in the league for ages
-1


Boris1977 added 22:20 - Feb 27

Phew. Beat what is front of them. Team selection and formations more or less spot on. A long way to go so keeping my hope locked up for now.
1


codge added 22:38 - Feb 27

Much better performance and much needed.Yoshida made a big difference with his calmness,a much better team effort finally.Bertrand was a big improvement over Targett and looked back to his best.The next two games will be tough but if we can show the same grit then who knows we may get something out of them. Coyr.
1


saintjf added 22:57 - Feb 27

Just what was needed against a poor Fulham side that will not catch Saints. Yoshi looked good at the back. Prefer Gunn in goal too. Bertrand finding his form. Much to be cheerful about although not out of the woods yet.
2


saintjf added 22:58 - Feb 27

Oh yes.. JWP very good.
0


KriSaint added 23:10 - Feb 27

Shockingly important 3 points on the board. Well done, Saints.
Victories over Bournemouth, Huddersfield and Brighton + maybe 2 draws from games vs Newcastle and Wolves will hopefully be enough to keep out of trouble -- which means that nobody should panic if we get nothing against Man. U., Tottenham and Liverpool en route.
Man of the match: Romeu for me. Great game by Yoshida also. Good to have him back in the side. Much more calm on the ball than Stephens.
0


JimmyMeliaPhD added 23:56 - Feb 27

I'm glad my bold prediction turned out well--that if Long started we'd lose, but if he didn't we'd win! And didn't he look like total rubbish when he did come on!! He looks worse the better the team around him plays.

I still question the back three tactic, especially at home against a team we ought to beat. But if we're going to do it, then Yoshida's experience, speed and calm are probably needed; even if he has his faults, he's not handing over goals to the opponents at the rate of one or more a game.

The rest of the team played pretty well, or as well as the could in a system that was pretty unadventurous.

My biggest sensation (and I bet a lot of the players share it) is relief to get another win.
-1


TimSaint added 00:51 - Feb 28

A good win against a poor team.

Where has the press gone ? In such a game of high consequence, it was strange for us to be so pedestrian in large stages of the first half, especially when we saw what could be achieved with the pressing just after the goal.
It was as if we were dropping to their level, or certain players were too scared of making errors, so preferred to play it safe.
It was certainly a deserved win and we looked a little more organised at the back, despite still letting Mitrovic in a couple of times. 3 defenders to mark 1 striker - someone please take the responsibility and mark him !! Yoshi was definitely an improvement on Stephens tonight.
Would have liked a bit more attack at the end to improve the goal difference on Brighton, instead we dropped so deep and resorted to hoofing it and hoping it would go to Red or Long.
Who cares though, we won and are now out of the bottom 3.
Great showings from Yoshi, JWP and Hojbjerg and even better to have a clean sheet !!
We need to play better than this on Saturday, but hopefully United picked up a few more injuries or suspensions tonight and we can battle it out for a draw. Maybe Ings will be back too - and even Lemina, as he had Pogba in his pocket in the game at St Marys and a repeat at Old Trafford would really give us a chance. Onwards and Upwards.
-1


carolinasaint added 04:23 - Feb 28

First...thank goodness! Beating Fulham at home may not be a terribly impressive feat, but it was desperately needed. Yoshida was virtually flawless in his return; here's hoping Ralph sees fit to play him in the center of the back line from here on in. JWP has really taken this aggression idea to heart--can't believe his thunderous tackle in their half in the first half that led to a Redmond chance. Romeu was massive as well. Long again was a disappointment. I've been a staunch defender of his over the years--although he is flat-out poor in front of goal his endeavor has always been inspiring and not infrequently led to goals...often for others.

Perhaps it's just that Fulham is so poor, but how refreshing was it to have a two-goal lead and actually hold comfortable possession for long stretches rather than play from inside our own penalty area. Glad that six blown two-goal leads in the last 12 months didn't turn into 7. Hopefully that will become more the norm. It was nice not feeling sick to my stomach with a second-half lead.
0


SaintBrock added 07:23 - Feb 28

What a relief. It might be argued that Fulham were very poor on the night and we can one beat poor sides but Fulham were so comprehensively out-played by Saints that they were made to look very poor. Our energy and intensity overwhelmed them and one e Romeu's goal went it there was one ever going to be one result. Mitrovic in our team instead of the carthorse would have seen us win b at least 6 clear goals.

Yes, I know, Austin worked his socks off tiling away for no reward but that's what carthorses do for a living. Pity he isn't a footballer.

Hojberg simply outstanding, great leader and MotM by a country mile. Even you Nick must accept that Yoshi was magnificent in the centre of defence and what more is there to say about the excellent Bertie surely our most gifted footballer. How we have missed him. So good to see these two back with real appetite and commitment to the cause.
3


SanMarco added 08:38 - Feb 28

Ralph isn't perfect - no one is, but he is showing encouraging flexibility. We stopped Fulham doing the only thing they do well and snapped up the inevitable mistakes at the back. Bertrand's absence was overshadowed by the CB problems but his return could be a key moment for us. We have one of the best mid-fields outside the top six and they need to keep chipping in with goals. Yoshi has to stay in ahead of Stephens. He will make mistakes but he is far better overall. A word in praise of JWP - he doesn't get a lot, certainly not from me, but he is playing better and has scored some important goals.

Manure is now a free shot with goal difference matters probably most important. Spuds on the other hand could be a bonus point (or who knows, even 3) if we play well.
0


redwight added 09:55 - Feb 28

Fantastic commitment from the whole team, especially midfield. Hojbjerg and Romeu top class, but MOM for me was JWP. Never seen him play better. 2nd half was a missed opportunity to really take them apart, and in doing so boosting confidence, improving GD and making a statement.
1


I_would added 11:04 - Feb 28

Phew. Thank gawd for that. I'd like to say I enjoyed it but I only started relaxing with 20 seconds to go. No point in running down the opposition they've already done that themselves.
0


I_would added 17:18 - Mar 2

Went from best effort of the season to 'Oh no not again' in 5 mins. Hojbjerg gave the point away with a pathetic attempt at a tackle.
-6


aceofthebase added 17:55 - Mar 2

Great effort by ALL the team, including Austin!
We deserved at least a draw and a more competent referee would have given us two penalties. It was so disappointing to lose but we played with spirit and commitment and as a supporter that is what I want to see.
Valery is becoming one helluva player and with more experience will be a target for the top clubs.
A rare game that I enjoyed even with a defeat.
9


codge added 17:55 - Mar 2

Such a shame we were so close but typically Utd find a way to win and we find a way to lose. But a valiant effort none the less,a good shift put in by all just one lapse by PEH and who had a fantastic game up till then cost us.This is the effort we need for the rest of the games.Also Valery scored what could be goal of the season for us shame it did not get the result we deserved.
13


SaintBrock added 17:59 - Mar 2

What a super game to watch, totally enthralling. What might have been eh? Gives hope for next Saturday and with the crowd behind the team and singing OUR song we could just give Spurs a tonking.
11


KriSaint added 18:20 - Mar 2

Saints denied 2 penalties + Lukaku scores from an offside position = impossible to get anything at that miserable home referee stadium.

Well played Saints. Very encouraging performance. Very satisfied with JWP finallly reaching 5 league goals in a season. He is soon - finally - the finished article.
14


cockneyswan added 20:09 - Mar 2

Swans made hard work in this match against a very poor Bolton, perhaps it would have been very different if pen had been scored. Bolton just defending deep made it difficult to create chances. Luckily after Bolton had 2 sent off just a matter of time before we scored scrappy first goal. Celina added some class with second goal.
0


SaintPaulVW added 20:54 - Mar 2

Darn it! Cracking game to watch though.

We hung in there at the start, came good, came back and just couldn't hang on. If we keep playing like that tho we'll beat the drop.

Wonder if Ryu Bertrand is still feeling his Street Fighter 2 tackle on Lukaku.lol.
6


wessex_exile added 21:41 - Mar 2

Dreadful - for most of the first half we had them in our pocket, without to be honest much creative flair up front. Gilmartin had already been giving glimpses of the shockers to follow, poor kicking, constantly playing out to a defender who was already under pressure, and having to aimlessly lump to no one the inevitable pass back. However, in the 39th minute he surpassed himself with a dreadfully scuffed goal kick straight to a Swindon player in our own half, and several pinpoint passes later Swindon had an ill-deserved 1-0 lead. Two minutes later and a sweeping cross straight on to the head of a Swindon player, who looked miles offside, headed back past Gilmartin into the far corner, and the game looked lost.

It didn't get much better 2nd half sadly. We huffed and puffed and did try and get back into the game, but by then Swindon were quite happy to sit deep and weather anything we tried. Gilmartin wasn't responsible for Mandron running down a blind alley and losing possession on the edge of our box, but he was responsible for the weak hands to only palm the incoming shot up and over his shoulder and into the corner of the goal. It was good to see Norris come on, and he did at least have a few shots on goal, something everyone else seemed remarkably reluctant to try.

...and the referee was absolutely shocking.
0


KriSaint added 09:22 - Mar 3

p.s.
Lukaku´s winning goal; What happened and how could it have been avoided?
He got the ball just inside the box, from a low, short, unblocked pass, with his back against center of goal. Yoshida was the closest marker but couldn´t find time to put in a tackle, and Lukaku turned around with the ball in his possession and put it inside the corner with a low shot, which Gunn - fully streched - couldn´t reach.
Bad defending? Bad goalkeeping? Just a matter of classy finishing?

I guess it was a combination of:

- classy striker ability,
- insufficient defending from Yoshida, AND
- lack of protection from midfield (Højbjerg should have tried harder to block the pass to Lukaku).

It´s all about awareness, timing and great fitness, and we can only learn from it and move on.
Under Hasenhüttl we will be better prepared in all departments next season.
COYS.
Have a nice sunday.
0


SanMarco added 10:57 - Mar 3

It is a shame that the late winner will have many talking of 'typical' Saints but I think we were unlucky not to get at least a point. Gunn has won his place as first choice and JWP has improved. This wasn't a 3-2 defeat where rubbish defending handed the opposition all the goals (at Arsenal last year and Fulham this) so I am going to take the positives - even though they don't show up in the league table of course. Cardiff seem to be imploding nicely as well...

The only negative for me was the fact that forwards are not scoring. It is great that others are 'chipping in' but it would be nice for those paid to score goals to actually do so on a more regular basis
6


saintjf added 12:18 - Mar 3

It is always difficult to lose when playing that lot and playing so well. We do need points but at least our goal difference continues to look better than Burnley and Cardiff. We are a much better side than this time last year so I hope we can get the results to survive and put pressure on the teams around us. Spurs next...
4


Boris1977 added 15:27 - Mar 3

Incredible performance, proud to be a saint. Just wish the outcome wasn't so predictable. Still in the toilet if not in the bowl. It's the hope. Course.
1


Boris1977 added 15:55 - Mar 3

Incredible performance, proud to be a saint. Just wish the outcome wasn't so predictable. Still in the toilet if not in the bowl. It's the hope. Course.
0


aceofthebase added 19:37 - Mar 3

Could Gunn have stopped the Pereira shot? It appears that although he dived towards the ball he did not try to reach it with outstretched arms. I don't want to criticise him because he saved so many other shots but it's been bugging me since watching replays.
1


SaintBrock added 22:04 - Mar 3

I don't think so aceofthebase, maybe his starting position was wrong because he like most others thought the ball was going to be moved out to the left so he had no chance to reach the ball when it was unleashed. Not on the same scale as the errors of De Gea who let the first goal through his hands and had all the time in the world to position himself for WP's free kick and still couldn't reach it.
1


SaintBrock added 08:35 - Mar 4

I don't think so aceofthebase, maybe his starting position was wrong because he like most others thought the ball was going to be moved out to the left so he had no chance to reach the ball when it was unleashed. Not on the same scale as the errors of De Gea who let the first goal through his hands and had all the time in the world to position himself for WP's free kick and still couldn't reach it.
0


underweststand added 09:49 - Mar 4

The ratings above surely confirm that we had excellent performances all round.
A crying shame about the result, but then again we were playing United - weren't we Ref?
2


I_would added 17:43 - Mar 9

What a difference with some pace up front, brilliant win.
8


codge added 18:49 - Mar 9

Pulled that one out of the hat,must admit at halftime l thought there's no way back into this game the way we were playing in the first half. But credit to Ralph and the boys a fantastic result as other scores were going against us. We'll done Saints with this spirit we will survive.
12


aceofthebase added 18:52 - Mar 9

Who first said 'a game of two halves'? This game reminded me of games played under RK where we would get the runaround in the first half and then a decisive player/ system change with a victory and the manager's reputation goes sky high.
Spurs must have come out to start the second half thinking the game was already won and they would increase their score. How wrong were they!
I'm no expert so cannot explain our dire first half performance nor the classy play by Spurs but for a Saints fan it was an utter joy to turn this game around.
Symes came on with a point to prove and was electric, he played with no inhibition and his example spread throughout the side. It was a shame that Long was injured but again Armstrong came on and played well creating the goal for Valery. ( Cedric fans time to change allegiance!)
The transformation that is James Ward Prowse continues. He is a tougher player and now plays with a smile. Well done the manager for bringing out the best in him and several other players.
Now let's just salivate over that free kick, what a strike. It's a long time since we had a player that we now expect to score in those situations.
I'm a happy chappy tonight!
10


SaintBrock added 19:42 - Mar 9

Horrible game to watch but three great goals. Perhaps at last Hasenhüttl has realised how useless Austin & Long are and will never pick them again. First half we played with ten men. Sims may be raw but if it's worth persevering with Valery (who had a stinker today but popped up with a cheeky goal to redeem himself a bit) then surely it's worth giving Sims a run, how is he not 100 times better than Austin?

Poor old Oriol seems to have a reputation with referees, not fair that he got booked for his first foul. Good move to take him off at HT as he needs to be fully committed in every situation and on a yellow he can't be.
2


enfieldargh added 20:36 - Mar 9

zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz
0


KriSaint added 20:53 - Mar 9

Thank You Ralph for finally giving Simms a deserved chance and put Elyounouissi out of the squad, deservedly. What an impact Simms had when he came on in the second half. We need his speed.
I have been waiting for a victory like this, coming from behind and winning against a top 4 team.
Referee Kevin Friend tried his best for Tottenham, but, unlucky for him, they lost without him being able to avoid it..
Fantastic to see the same goal scorers from the Man. U. game score again. JWP has finally had his breakthrough in the PL with his free kick ability. Every keeper, every team, every manager will fear him from dead balls outside the box for the next 10 years. I love it.
Well done, Ralph. Well done, Saints.
Bring on Brighton.
COYS. <3
11


vanmans added 21:07 - Mar 9

Good win today. But that's two referees in a row that have favoured the top six team which is criminal.
13


SaintPaulVW added 21:25 - Mar 9

Can only Marvel at how different the two halves were. Was praying we wouldn't let another goal in in the first half our 3 centre backs looked lost at sea at times.

But then.....great work by Ralph in changing formation and great to see Simms grab his chance. COYR!
5


saintjf added 23:09 - Mar 9

Appalling referee. Despite that and with the help of Kane's many misses in the first half we won. Such a difference in the second half when we could attack freely. A very special win. Have not felt this good at St Marys in a long time. Manager doing an amazing job with our very limited squad. Cardiff who, unlike Swansea last season, do not seem to be throwing in the towel would have found this difficult to take after their win against West Ham. Just one relegation position to worry about. We are very much in touch with Burnley, Brighton and Palace. If we continue like this we will survive.
6


JimmyMeliaPhD added 23:33 - Mar 9

The PL needs to be careful...the habit of assigning biased refs to top 6 teams is getting more and more blatant and transparent! Beyond that, we Saints fans need to temper our happiness for a second and ask, why this team played like clueless schoolkids in the first half, but like demons in the second? The manager's selections and tactics have made me queazy a number of times this season, and the back 3 tactic is always asking for trouble. When Spurs pressed the middle three in the first half it looked like total chaos! None of the three knew what they were doing. Bednarek transcends the chaos a bit because he's a supremely gifted player, but the other two were shaky to sat the least. This team needs to attack and press forward all the time, because the back 3 cannot cope for 90 minutes. So, play like one big car crash waiting to happen in the first half, but then come out and attack in the second and lo and behold you get a result. In the second half we had no centre forward, but that worked better than having Austin there in the first half. (Austin and Long would surely not be anywhere near this squad if a) we'd bought forward, and b) Obafemi and Ings were fit.) Moral of the story really (and we've seen it in other games), set up defensively, you suck; press and try to play real football and you pit on a better show and maybe get some points.
3


Yorkshire_Dale added 23:58 - Mar 9

Great battling performance from the starting eleven...subs were poor,all of them. Really pleased for BBM and the fans who really got behind the team who were proper "up for it"...special mention to the returning Kgosi and Olly Rathbone who both put a shift in backed up by Big Jim and EEL......but the saves from Lonergon kept us in it and really got us the 3 points! Great atmosphere at San Spotty and though we really really road our luck at times we went home happy for a change!

Let's keep giving it a real go!
0


KriSaint added 00:12 - Mar 10

We should not forget to praise Stuart Armstrong for his efforts today; he was involved in both our goals. He is an intellligent player who offers much in combination play all over the pitch. Makes great runs. Has a sweet right foot. A great signing, really. ´Only` cost around 7 million. Worth every penny, I think.
12


smegma added 03:04 - Mar 10

That's too many zeds Enfield. Id give it two zeds.
0


bigrob68 added 06:44 - Mar 10

Ref was totally bias
Long and Austin were junk and should not play again

the rest of the team were fantastic including our fans
massive difference when Sims came on
went expecting to lose, draw would have been a bonus so to get a win was just great.
1


AirFlorida added 10:17 - Mar 10

If ever there was an example of unconscious bias it was in that refereeing! Decisions that would have normally been given against us were again not applied to a top six team. For once we got the luck we've been starved of for so long. Great to see we're up for the fight. Gutted we'll lose the benifits of this feelgood with a three week break before our next match (as we normally do winning before a long break).
3


windsorloop added 12:18 - Mar 10

I will give it ????????????
0


Addinall added 22:23 - Mar 13

Wrong line up. Poor performance, Surely Wszolek must start and Osayi - Samuel should play centre up front.
From the time that happened we looked dangerous and scored a good goal.
1


Addinall added 22:24 - Mar 13

Wrong line up. Poor performance, Surely Wszolek must start and Osayi - Samuel should play centre up front.
From the time that happened we looked dangerous and scored a good goal.
0


MelakaRanger added 08:02 - Mar 14

As bad a performance as I’ve ever seen in 53 years of supporting QPR. In fact since Xmas this is the worse set of performances I’ve ever seen. Even in 69 when we only won 3 games the players bust their guts every game. They played for pride. There’s been little of that these past 10 weeks.

No energy, no desire last nigh. Played at slow motion . It’s like the players didn’t want to be there

We have serious problems. We’re not even a mid way League 1 team. We are that bad. We will need a miracle to not be in League 1 within the next 18 months. And I genuinely fear that there is a very real risk that we will be in League 2 after that.

And there’s a reason that Hamed & Wells we’re available as loans. Their clubs don’t think they are good enough. They are not wrong.
0


MelakaRanger added 08:03 - Mar 14

As bad a performance as I’ve ever seen in 53 years of supporting QPR. In fact since Xmas this is the worse set of performances I’ve ever seen. Even in 69 when we only won 3 games the players bust their guts every game. They played for pride. There’s been little of that these past 10 weeks.

No energy, no desire last nigh. Played at slow motion . It’s like the players didn’t want to be there

We have serious problems. We’re not even a mid way League 1 team. We are that bad. We will need a miracle to not be in League 1 within the next 18 months. And I genuinely fear that there is a very real risk that we will be in League 2 after that.

And there’s a reason that Hamed & Wells we’re available as loans. Their clubs don’t think they are good enough. They are not wrong.
0


HastingsRanger added 08:56 - Mar 14

Very poor performance against poor opposition. Hemed particularly so.

This is now a relegation fight, when really it should never have been. The Manning loan raises its head again!
0


HastingsRanger added 09:53 - Mar 14

Only high spot was Rotherham's opener! Quite a strike.
0


HastingsRanger added 15:04 - Mar 14

Only high spot was Rotherham's opener! Quite a strike.
0


Freddo added 15:09 - Mar 14

Atrocious performance, where to begin.

Every time the ball came to anyone, whether we were defending or attacking, it was hacked, hoofed or headed away immediately, no one putting their foot on the ball or looking up to see where a teammate was, just panicking to get rid of it as quickly as possible, which was also true of the chances we did create (Wells hitting the post and Bright blazing over the bar). Pav, Bright, Luogno and Freeman were better but it’s really not saying much. You could sense the nerves spreading through the team, Furlong being the latest victim in recent weeks, him and Bidwell frequently (with no players around them) hacking the ball back into the sky again and again rather than trusting their ability to control it. It was also clear from minute 1 that Rotherham's tactic would be to try and win free kicks as soon as they got into our half, but we didn't learn, kept giving them away and finally got punished as we deserved to be (honestly part of me was delighted for the Rotherham fans who made the trip - we think we're bad away from home).

McClaren was right in his post-match comments saying there's a lack of confidence in the team, but a manager who can't inspire confidence in his players' own ability to play a 5-yard pass properly isn't doing his job is he? Up until the New Year we had a shape, a way of playing and a plan, but what was the game plan last night? More long balls up to Hemed, or to no one, often to the same effect? More pointless diagonal balls from Liestner that never come off? More 'long' throw-ins from Furlong that barely reach the 18 yard box? Lumley early on played two excellent quick passes for Bright to chase, but for some reason stopped trying it and we reverted back to lumping it around and playing 5 yard passes to teammates at knee height expecting them to control it. With the exception of the Leeds game it’s been like that for the last 2 months and the flaws of this team have been laid bare - we are largely a team of limited natural ability who unless every player is 100% firing on all cylinders, often against teams we aren't expected to beat, we will lose, and last night was the lowest point of the season (even before last night Rotherham were in better form that us, yet we played like we could saunter to a win).

Also it can't just be me thinking that we have got to stop with these useless corner routines where we cram everyone at the near post/goal mouth and look for a flick-on? It hasn't worked once all season, it's not going to work - opposition teams watching our games will know this is our only corner plan and prepare for it, because it's very easy to defend against for defenders and the keeper - and it's such a waste of Freeman's ability from a dead-ball, as well as Liestner's ability in the air. The less said about the disinterested Hemed the better - forget playing for the shirt and that, he's treating these games like training matches, where is the personal pride in a performance like that?

We've had our lucky breaks this season, and our fair share of unlucky ones too, but after 46 games the table won't lie and 5 points from a possible 36 in 2019 is relegation form. Manning's loan to Rotherham earlier in the season (his goals won them 7 points) is going to come back to bite us.
0


Paddyhoops added 15:14 - Mar 14

Embarrassing beyond belief. Uttery shameful!!
0


Freddo added 15:19 - Mar 14

Atrocious performance, where to begin.

Every time the ball came to anyone, whether we were defending or attacking, it was hacked, hoofed or headed away immediately, no one putting their foot on the ball or looking up to see where a teammate was, just panicking to get rid of it as quickly as possible, which was also true of the chances we did create (Wells hitting the post and Bright blazing over the bar). Pav, Bright, Luogno and Freeman were better but it’s really not saying much. You could sense the nerves spreading through the team, Furlong being the latest victim in recent weeks, him and Bidwell frequently (with no players around them) hacking the ball back into the sky again and again rather than trusting their ability to control it. It was also clear from minute 1 that Rotherham's tactic would be to try and win free kicks as soon as they got into our half, but we didn't learn, kept giving them away and finally got punished as we deserved to be (honestly part of me was delighted for the Rotherham fans who made the trip - we think we're bad away from home).

McClaren was right in his post-match comments saying there's a lack of confidence in the team, but a manager who can't inspire confidence in his players' own ability to play a 5-yard pass properly isn't doing his job is he? Up until the New Year we had a shape, a way of playing and a plan, but what was the game plan last night? More long balls up to Hemed, or to no one, often to the same effect? More pointless diagonal balls from Liestner that never come off? More 'long' throw-ins from Furlong that barely reach the 18 yard box? Lumley early on played two excellent quick passes for Bright to chase, but for some reason stopped trying it and we reverted back to lumping it around and playing 5 yard passes to teammates at knee height expecting them to control it. With the exception of the Leeds game it’s been like that for the last 2 months and the flaws of this team have been laid bare - we are largely a team of limited natural ability who unless every player is 100% firing on all cylinders, often against teams we aren't expected to beat, we will lose, and last night was the lowest point of the season (even before last night Rotherham were in better form that us, yet we played like we could saunter to a win).

Also it can't just be me thinking that we have got to stop with these useless corner routines where we cram everyone at the near post/goal mouth and look for a flick-on? It hasn't worked once all season, it's not going to work - opposition teams watching our games will know this is our only corner plan and prepare for it, because it's very easy to defend against for defenders and the keeper - and it's such a waste of Freeman's ability from a dead-ball, as well as Liestner's ability in the air. The less said about the disinterested Hemed the better - forget playing for the shirt and that, he's treating these games like training matches, where is the personal pride in a performance like that?

We've had our lucky breaks this season, and our fair share of unlucky ones too, but after 46 games the table won't lie and 5 points from a possible 36 in 2019 is relegation form. Manning's loan to Rotherham earlier in the season (his goals won them 7 points) is going to come back to bite us.
0


Freddo added 15:29 - Mar 14

Atrocious performance, where to begin.

Every time the ball came to anyone, whether we were defending or attacking, it was hacked, hoofed or headed away immediately, no one putting their foot on the ball or looking up to see where a teammate was, just panicking to get rid of it as quickly as possible, which was also true of the chances we did create (Wells hitting the post and Bright blazing over the bar). Pav, Bright, Luogno and Freeman were better but it’s really not saying much. You could sense the nerves spreading through the team, Furlong being the latest victim in recent weeks, him and Bidwell frequently (with no players around them) hacking the ball back into the sky again and again rather than trusting their ability to control it. It was also clear from minute 1 that Rotherham's tactic would be to try and win free kicks as soon as they got into our half, but we didn't learn, kept giving them away and finally got punished as we deserved to be (honestly part of me was delighted for the Rotherham fans who made the trip - we think we're bad away from home).

McClaren was right in his post-match comments saying there's a lack of confidence in the team, but a manager who can't inspire confidence in his players' own ability to play a 5-yard pass properly isn't doing his job is he? Up until the New Year we had a shape, a way of playing and a plan, but what was the game plan last night? More long balls up to Hemed, or to no one, often to the same effect? More pointless diagonal balls from Liestner that never come off? More 'long' throw-ins from Furlong that barely reach the 18 yard box? Lumley early on played two excellent quick passes for Bright to chase, but for some reason stopped trying it and we reverted back to lumping it around and playing 5 yard passes to teammates at knee height expecting them to control it. With the exception of the Leeds game it’s been like that for the last 2 months and the flaws of this team have been laid bare - we are largely a team of limited natural ability who unless every player is 100% firing on all cylinders, often against teams we aren't expected to beat, we will lose, and last night was the lowest point of the season (even before last night Rotherham were in better form that us, yet we played like we could saunter to a win).

Also it can't just be me thinking that we have got to stop with these useless corner routines where we cram everyone at the near post/goal mouth and look for a flick-on? It hasn't worked once all season, it's not going to work - opposition teams watching our games will know this is our only corner plan and prepare for it, because it's very easy to defend against for defenders and the keeper - and it's such a waste of Freeman's ability from a dead-ball, as well as Liestner's ability in the air. The less said about the disinterested Hemed the better - forget playing for the shirt and that, he's treating these games like training matches, where is the personal pride in a performance like that?

We've had our lucky breaks this season, and our fair share of unlucky ones too, but after 46 games the table won't lie and 5 points from a possible 36 in 2019 is relegation form. Manning's loan to Rotherham earlier in the season (his goals won them 7 points) is going to come back to bite us.
0


Badlands added 23:46 - Mar 16

FoOr all those who automatically vote Rutledge down - get a life.
1


felixstowe_jack added 08:01 - Mar 17

Referee and Assistant were poor. Why no VAR? Was it because the FA thought it would be 5-0 so it would make no difference.
0


I_would added 17:07 - Mar 30

We went for a point and got 3. Lucky BHA were such dross.
3


codge added 17:35 - Mar 30

Made hard work of it but results are what counts.Massive 3 points for us so well done Saints, wasn't pretty but I'll take these games anyway we can.Still not convinced that Valery is the answer as his defensive tracking back is leaving us very vulnerable at times but he has had some really good games.
Makes the Liverpool game very interesting as getting this result will take a little pressure of us.COYR.
4


Geoff78 added 19:21 - Mar 30

This seemed to be a new formation 4-1-4-1 with Luongo just in front of the defence and Freeman playing more centrally than usual alongside Scowen. And 2 proper wingers but Hemed had a poor game. Surely his lack of mobility means he can't be selected again.
Strangely, although this was a dreadful result, Rs mostly played with spirit and dominated for long spells. but were consistently unable to deliver quality balls into the box in spite of gettng into good positions. I lost count of wasted and mis-hit crosses. And of course the defence folds whenever tested. Lynch didn't look interested.
BOS man of the match.
0


KriSaint added 20:35 - Mar 30

Great victory today. Even the darkest, most negative Saints fan will now admit, that it is now highly unlikely that we will be relegated this season.

We won today without playing particularly well; that´s something new :-)

7 victories, 3 draws and 6 losses in 16 games with RH as manager means RH point average = 1.5,

which is normally enough to land the no. 7 position in the premier league. Just lean back and think about it.

RH has done this with - at least on paper - a weakened squad compared to what Hughes had, beating 2 top 6 sides en route.

I think it´s fair to say that we have a very, very competent manager, and I hereby say cheers and share this great fact and feeling with all my fellow Saints fans. Have a great, continued week-end, everybody.
7


saintjf added 20:37 - Mar 30

Not safe yet but a giant step in the right direction. Well done Sains.
6


saintjf added 20:38 - Mar 30

Saints.. Don't post when drinking.
1


JimmyMeliaPhD added 23:25 - Mar 30

Nearly fell asleep a few times, the football was so bad! But all credit to Saints for holding firm, even though Albion didn't threaten much except for a short period in the 2nd half. Things to worry about, even while being positive about getting 3 points from a poor performance....1) Stephens was just embarrassing when he came on. 2) Ings still didn't look fit and basically contributed nothing. 3) Redmond is getting his attitude back, and that's not auspicious for his performances.
5


smegma added 00:37 - Mar 31

We had a formation ??? I got the impression we were making it up as we went along. No shape, no idea, no leadership. 6 points from 42 in 2019. One of the main reasons we will stay up is because there are 3 worse teams than us.
0


MelakaRanger added 08:13 - Mar 31

Yet again we played at a snails pace. Absolutely no urgency at all. Constant wayward passing. Often to the opposition. When we did get near goal and had a shot most every time it was far too high or far too wide .

BOS seemed to switch off when he lost the ball. And one time in the first half 6 yards from goal he lost the ball, gave up but the defender screwed up and the ball bumbled around. Had BOS not “given up the ghost” he could easily have recovered the ball and slipped it into the net.

On the odd occasion some of our players actually ran, and forwards towards goal, their defence was frightened and couldn’t deal with us. But immediately after our ensuing wayward shot on goal we the. Went back to Walking Football.

It did appear to me that most of the team were just going through the motions and couldn’t be arsed.

And that substitution chaos. What a joke

LFW tweets during the game summed it up.

This team, this year plays as though it’s a low League 1 outfit. I fear that’s where we will be in the near future
0


MelakaRanger added 08:48 - Mar 31

Yet again we played at a snails pace. Absolutely no urgency at all. Constant wayward passing. Often to the opposition. When we did get near goal and had a shot most every time it was far too high or far too wide .

BOS seemed to switch off when he lost the ball. And one time in the first half 6 yards from goal he lost the ball, gave up but the defender screwed up and the ball bumbled around. Had BOS not “given up the ghost” he could easily have recovered the ball and slipped it into the net.

On the odd occasion some of our players actually ran, and forwards towards goal, their defence was frightened and couldn’t deal with us. But immediately after our ensuing wayward shot on goal we the. Went back to Walking Football.

It did appear to me that most of the team were just going through the motions and couldn’t be arsed.

And that substitution chaos. What a joke

LFW tweets during the game summed it up.

This team, this year plays as though it’s a low League 1 outfit. I fear that’s where we will be in the near future
0


vanmans added 10:00 - Mar 31

This game showed that Gallagher and Stephens have no future with Saints. Still good win but money needs to be spent in the summer.
6


SaintBrock added 10:38 - Mar 31

Very lucky win so let's not get too cocky or complacent. Gallagher does not fit here at all so time to move him on now. Not one of WP's better matches and Valery needs to get back from his holidays before Friday.
4


SaintBrock added 10:40 - Mar 31

Mane v Valery...

You know you can't wait!
6


sandywelsh added 17:59 - Mar 31

Did James Ward-Prowse play? Still got the result we wanted.
0


Harrybells added 07:20 - Apr 2

Thank you!
0


Harrybells added 07:20 - Apr 2

Thank you!
0


I_would added 22:05 - Apr 5

Predictable cave in at the end. Ward Prowse was a liablility again defending, Armstrong should have been on from the start instead.
5


saintjf added 22:25 - Apr 5

Oh dear, that was very hard to take. A very ordinary and thoroughly dislikeable Liverpool team average at best in the first half go through to thump us in the end. It would have been easier to watch if we had not score first....
0


Boris1977 added 22:57 - Apr 5

Head expected this even if the heart didn't want it to be this way. Decent periods of play but we don't have the players to beat uninspiring opposition and ran out of steam again. We know how RH has improved the team and we know how the board need to prioritise improvements in the team.

Nice of klopp to bring lovren on again. Real class. Looking at the vast majority of Scouse fans on other message they are their usual magnanimous selves as usual. Or not. Maybe I just don't their majestic wit.
6


KriSaint added 23:03 - Apr 5

A rare off day for Bednarek who looked bad in all 3 goal situations, unfortunately. He is still very young, and I fully forgive him of course, and he will learn from it.
Only Højbjerg had a good game really, in my opinion. Liverpool were beatable today but we didn´t take our chance to beat them.
Unlucky that an off side was overlooked in the actions leading to their equalizer.

Still - a decent effort against a good side, I guess, and everybody tried I´m sure, though it didn´t always look like it.
0


TimSaint added 02:09 - Apr 6

Own worst enemies again.
Good goal, poor finishing should have put us 2 up.
Offside equaliser - crap officials
Too much needless giving the ball away and panic
Long did well to last an hour after injury, but total change of shape and tactics once he was binned.
They score from our corner - same old this season. Had to be Salah
Sims messed around with it on the edge of their box, when it fell to JWP, his shot got block and the fast counter was on !! Why commit so many at 1-1 for a corner FFS ?
That was game over but at least we tried to be more positive with some subs.
60 yard ball and Beds didn't even attempt to head it, then got outskilled on the deck and JWP failed to track back, leaving them with a tap in.

Expected to lose in reality, but the nature of the defeat left a bitter taste in the mouth, with no doubt a full on media w@nkfest to follow.
DM was quite complimentary whilst driving home listening to Solemt, however some utter bell piece phoned in to TalkSport and said that they have won it already and what with Carragher, is it any wonder they are hater as a ream
5


SaintBrock added 08:10 - Apr 6

Ward Prowse may not have realised that he was in the starting team line-up last night as he seemed to be quite content with spectating although somebody should remind him that it is a public order offence to enter the field of play while a match is in progress to get a better view.
7


SaintPaulVW added 09:51 - Apr 6

Frustrating. We matched them for most of the game. PEH was immense. Shane Long almost seemed dumbstruck when the chance fell to him! Good to see some attacking substitutions but our late game management sucks. This was a free hit, just need those 2 wins and based on how we playefwe should be okay. COYR!
3


SanMarco added 10:49 - Apr 6

I'm not quite as glum as the majority here. The big frustration was that Liverpool were beatable last night - or at least 'drawable'. Having said that, although our usual failings cost us, we looked a decent side for long periods. The linesman's error was costly, 1-0 at half time was needed. Also why commit at the corner when it is 1-1? Taking it into the last few mins level would have meant we got chances on the break anyway, they were desparate, not us. Still, a lot better than this would have been a few months ago.
5


mikesaint added 10:58 - Apr 6

Most players played well but what has happened to JWP? In the last two games he has gone back to his old ways of being just a passenger. He should of been replaced at half time by Armstrong. We played well until Shane Long went off then we lost our threat.
7


Messysaints added 12:43 - Apr 6

Don't get the comments moaning about JWP, he created the most chances on the team and in the game with 4 ( Redmond 0 ) and was playing as a forward, but result as expected
-2


TimSaint added 13:51 - Apr 6

Messy

Just my opinion, but JWP was poor last night - by his recent standards

I appreciate he was playing more defensively due to the threat from Mane, but with a back 5, there should have been enough cover defensively.

When he did get forward he had plenty of chances to cross but usually passed it back. Sure he created a few chances from corners or dead balls, but he was always going to, as he took every corner and free kick where there was an opportunity to deliver a ball into the box.

What was frustrating was the fact that he ruined a promising attack by being given off side (a basic error from him), not once, but TWICE !!

Then there as his blocked shot that led to the 2nd goal and he didn't track back his man Henderson - allowing him an easy tap in for their 3rd.

For an England International, he had a poor game.

OK so Redmond didn't create any chances, but looked a far more dangerous player, was more of a goal threat and had a far better game.

Hopefully JWP will be back to his best for Wolves next week and help us to those 2 more wins we possibly need.
5


SaintPaulVW added 17:15 - Apr 6

Oh and I thought Vestergaard had a really great match last night. Looked really solid.
2


Yorkshire_Dale added 20:35 - Apr 6

My MOM by a country-mile Olly Rathbone........never gives up and great engine!

Special mention to grey-haired Jimbo Mac........great tackle on penalty spot 1st half,stopped a certain goal!
0


smegma added 21:34 - Apr 6

BOS currently leading having played 15 minutes. Says it all.
0


Messysaints added 12:43 - Apr 7

Tim Saints, JWP put in 10 crosses, Redmond 0, JWP played 1 threw ball, Redmond 0, JWP made 9 lay offs, Redmodn 2, JWP created 4 times more attempts at goal than Redmond, JWP had poor game and Redmond was good? for running about like an idiot and doing nothing else? ok sure. we are entitled to our own opinions, but only on here does Redmond get voted higher than JWP, on every other website / whoscored and so on and so on and so on, JWP created the most in the game. So excuse me for not agreeing with your opinion, JWP played poor created 4 good chances, Redmond played well and created nothing... Great opinion.
2


Geoff78 added 17:40 - Apr 7

Only conceding one goal in the second half to 10 men felt like a success! After 12 mins thought we were looking at repeat of the 7 we conceded at WBA.
0


fubsy added 19:14 - Apr 7

An interesting game. I thought we ran out of gas at the end. There is no disgrace in losing to a team of Liverpool's calibre. I am tired of officials getting decisions wrong - Liverpool's first..... I have no problem with Saints going for it at 1 - 1 but perhaps we could have both full backs in the centre circle to deal with breakaways when we commit everyone else forward. I thought Pierre was outstanding, our back 3 were very solid and our mid field excellent. Klopp had to bring on Henderson and Milner to turn things round for them. I thought Saints were very good for most of the game.
0


TimSaint added 01:20 - Apr 10

Hi Messy
Thanks for your reply.

You have based your whole arguement against my views on JWP's performance, on the assumption that I actually rated Redmond. The fact is I never actually compared JWP to anyone else in our team and the reality is, I didn't give Redmond a very good mark.

All I said was that in my opinion, JWP didn't have a very good game, by his recent standards - that have earned him an international call up - and demonstrated where I believe he could have done better, without comparing him to any other player including Redmond. (They are players with differing styles anyway).

I accept he put in some crosses (he takes our corners and free kicks) and did some lay offs, through balls and good passes, but as I said, his performance was not up to recent high standards.

I also said that I hope his form improves for the Wolves game this weekend - and as an added extra, that all the other players' form improves too . I just feel that PEH has earned and deserved the MOTM award for the last 2 games. Perhaps Ings or Long will be awarded it this weekend with a hatrick ? Let's hope so.
0


I_would added 18:07 - Apr 13

Got there in the end although I think Wolves dropped off a bit which helped. Ward Prowse was chasing shadows the whole game and should have come off instead of Sims who was doing great.
10


sidsaint added 21:06 - Apr 13

Some lovely touches from the front three in the first half. We held Wolves when they were dangerous in the first half and then in the second didn't give them much and we could have had 4 or 5 in the end. Our defenders certainly know where row z is.
3


saintjf added 21:07 - Apr 13

Great result. Wolves clearly have some gifted players but a great Saints performance. JWP was not great but delivered some excellent dead balls. Romeu made a difference when he came on. Stability. Ings a worry. So happy for Long. Back 3 looking OK. Not so sure about our full backs who had a busy afternoon. Gunn is improving and has some authority. Still grinning...
2


codge added 23:30 - Apr 13

Have to get over giving the ball away so much,puts our defense under so much pressure.Agree Ward Prowse was to lightweight in this game back to bad habits.Still will take the win even if it was not pretty 3pts is all that matters right now.
8


janecook added 09:35 - Apr 14

Why Ward Prowse did stay on the pitch for the whole game? He hardly touched the ball in the whole ninety minutes and should have come off instead of Sims. Still good result.
8


BlackAngel added 09:52 - Apr 14

Overall, I was pleased with the team performance. The plan seemed to be not to try to compete to keep possession but to try to hit them on the break. It worked.

Ings, Redmond and Sims linked up surprisingly well, and although Ings did not score, he linked up our pacy pair very well, and despite not having much possession we could have scored a hatful of goals.

Yet again great game management from Ralph, and a great result against a very talented Wolves team.
1


SaintBrock added 09:58 - Apr 14

A poor match but a good result. Lots of huff and puff about Wolves but no real threat yesterday other than corners. Great to have a right winger with speed and guile at last. Should start over the dreadful Ward Prowse for the rest of the season.
7


Paddyhoops added 12:42 - Apr 14

Awsome
0


TimSaint added 19:25 - Apr 14

Scored too early, so naturally sat back and played into their hands with their possession game. Too much panic and poor passing gifted Wolves good chances, but at least we showed spirit and got straight back into the lead once Wolves drew level.
Despite Wolves dominance, we still created great chances and Sims gave me nightmares with that miss !! Left foot shot first time, or go round the keeper FFS. Ings was quite instrumental in creating our chances, including the assist for Redmond's 2nd, but he seemed off the pace. Likewise Valery seemed jaded and JWP shoes us he is not a holding midfielder.
The 2nd half subs changed the game for us. Rom immediately bossed the centre of the park and this allowed Hoj to have a bit more freedom and JWP look much more comfortable in a more attacking role (he covered an impressive match high 7.8 miles). Long put in a great shift and harassed the wolves defence for half an hour and was rewarded with his goal - which looked off side but TV showed he was on - so he is now in the prolific category !! :-)

Just a shame we couldn't add to the goal tally and how Yoshi's close range effort was saved, was unbelievable. I fancied a hatrick from Redmond too !! Never mind, we held out even with some indifferent defending, especially in the 1st half, but 3 points thank you and now we're virtually safe.

Maybe the board knew we would win and were justified in issuing the season ticket renewal details early ? Hopefully they will allow Ralf a major overhaul in the summer and we can avoid a 3rd straight relegation fight.
0


KriSaint added 19:37 - Apr 14

Interesting change in team selection and formation (3-4-3) with Simsy coming into the team in stead of Romeu. Sims certainly made us more goal seeking and threatening, and a third attacker in the team gave Ings the opportunity to show us how great he is in build up play and combining in the final part of the pitch getting a role similar to for instance Firminos role in Liverpools team. We had significantly more finishing than usually, which was nice.
Tough luck for Romeu, sacrificed on the table of tactics, but I´m sure he understands and accepts the value of tactical speculation and versatility.
It feels great to have a manager who so obviously seems to do his job very well in every department of managing.
0


Geoff78 added 19:01 - Apr 19

Oh well. We all knew Swansea was a false dawn. But why, when getting in Swansea's faces from the kick off clearly works doing we play today as if we're too busy slapping on the sun lotion in the Easter sunshine?

I don't believe the players don't care - I know that does take a huge leap of faith sometimes, but I do think they care.

Is it the failure of the manager to prepare them properly? But if so what did he do so spectacularly different last week? Or is there a malaise at the club, a dysfunction, that distracts too many and uses up too much mental energy so nothing is left for Saturday?

I know Blackburn looked better organised than Swansea, but Swansea have a better record.

Probably we were just lucky against the Swans.

And did no one think it might be worth marking Armstrong or giving poor Manning summer help? Aaarrghhh!!
1


blackvincent added 21:02 - Apr 19

U
0


Geoff78 added 15:55 - Apr 20

Oh well. We all knew Swansea was a false dawn. But why, when getting in Swansea's faces from the kick off clearly works doing we play today as if we're too busy slapping on the sun lotion in the Easter sunshine?

I don't believe the players don't care - I know that does take a huge leap of faith sometimes, but I do think they care.

Is it the failure of the manager to prepare them properly? But if so what did he do so spectacularly different last week? Or is there a malaise at the club, a dysfunction, that distracts too many and uses up too much mental energy so nothing is left for Saturday?

I know Blackburn looked better organised than Swansea, but Swansea have a better record.

Probably we were just lucky against the Swans.

And did no one think it might be worth marking Armstrong or giving poor Manning summer help? Aaarrghhh!!
0


vanmans added 22:37 - Apr 20

AS soon as I saw that Stephens was in the starting line up I feared the worst. Sims is not ready to start games but should be used as a late sub. Against Watford we need to start Armstrong and Lemina and drop Prowse. Prowse has gone back to his old ways and has been bad in the last 3 games. You cant have a player in the team just incase you get a freekick just outside the penalty area.
11


codge added 22:43 - Apr 20

Thought in the first half that It was going to be like last year there. Second half we finally showed up l thought Lemina was great along with Armstrong but to many others back to old ways especially JWP and thought Hojbjerg was way of his game getting caught with the ball to much.And why do we take for ever to take a throw in every game, Going forward in the first half was awful to watch the good news Ralph saw the problems and fixed it for the second half shame we started so bad.
9


janecook added 22:55 - Apr 20

Total shambles. We missed Vestergaard today Stephens was useless.
8


janecook added 22:55 - Apr 20

Total shambles. We missed Vestergaard today Stephens was useless.
0


Boris1977 added 22:59 - Apr 20

4-4-2 v Newcastle from the first minute. We don't have the playing staff to understand anything but 4-4-4-2. Leave the experiments to pre season. Disappointed, but not surprised. Post season will bring a few new signings. Right?
3


KriSaint added 23:25 - Apr 20

Bad defending for the first 2 goals in a shitty first half performance by Saints, where we couldn´t get foot hold and keep the ball in the team.. Much better second half and - in particular - an inspirational second half performance by substitute and goal scorer Mario Lemina. We created good chances in the second half but couldn´t convert them.
On the whole a disappointing afternoon after 5 good matches with 3 wins and narrow defeats to Man. U. and Liverpool. Our 4 man midfield (PEH, Romeu, JWP and Bertrand) totally lost the midfield battle in the first half..
We missed Valery, JWP didn´t have a good game as RWB. We also missed Vestergaard who would have been a bigger task for Rondon than Stephens.
We should have decoded our opponent better beforehand and played Stephens as RB and played Lemina from the start with a very solid , physical midfield.
3


darthvader added 09:24 - Apr 21

I did worry beforehand about playing jwp in that position . We looked lightweight.
At least we went for it in the second half played a lot better and could have nicked a point with a bit of luck and better finishing .
Rather lose 3-1 if we have at least had a go, than 2-0 damage limitation .
4


SaintBrock added 09:57 - Apr 21

Too many of our players thinking of the beach. Ralph's team selection all wrong again. Glad when this miserable season is over. Hard to pick a man of the match as nobody played well or as if they even cared about the outcome. Feel sorry for the 1700 who gave up their weekend to watch this dross.
3


saintjf added 10:31 - Apr 21

We are staying up, we are staying up! We are making very hard work of it and may just need something from the Huddersfield game to survive. That was Newcastle we lost too. They are not very good either.
3


SanMarco added 13:38 - Apr 21

We were at our worst in the first half - our one good CB was playing out of position and the whole thing was embarrassing. That was moderate, competent pressure from a lower-middle table side and we miserably failed to cope with it. Second half with 4 at the back we won the midfield and with a more potent attacking force we may have got a point or more. Yoshi was appalling (sorry - he was) and Stephens shouldn't have been playing, also JWP as right-back??

At least there will be absolutely no doubt in anyone's mind where we need to strengthen. I wonder how many points we have thrown away in recent seasons due to our poor purchases of defenders? Obviously a healthy goalscorer also needed...
6


SaintBrock added 14:22 - Apr 21

we are not very good against teams that are not very good saintjf
4


sidsaint added 14:45 - Apr 21

Agree Ralph got his team selection wrong especially with Josh, although after last week you could understand why. I'm afraid he looked out of his depth. However his changes at half time were spot on and Armstrong and especially Lamina made a big difference in the second half. Can't understand why we had so many up for the corner when JWP was lucky not to get a red. Just like the Liverpool game there was no need to push so many forward for the corner.
4


JimmyMeliaPhD added 20:28 - Apr 21

I've said a few times on here that some of RH's selection decisions seem wrong--though it's true that, like yesterday, he often can use subs to rectify the problems he causes himself. And of course, some decisions get forced on him because of lack of squad quality. So yesterday, you're missing Valery and Vestergaard, so you have to play JWP out of position and have to field the ever woeful Jack Stephens. Up fron, Soms was probably the wrong choice (as Armstrong was at pains to demonstrate). And Ings is doing his best to make sure Long gets on the field from time to time. All our squad weaknesses were exposed today, in other words, and once that XI was named it was game over.
That said, Lemina had a good game, and I'm learning to appreciate Gunn.
A word abut Ings, though. As the season draws to a close, and assuming we stay up, we surely have to give some serious thought as to whether he should be bought. He scored a few, true. But he's easily injured and right now looks unfit. Unless something drastic happens to his form in the final games, his overall profile for the season won't be an argument for signing him.
7


KriSaint added 08:32 - Apr 22

Something that has not really been highlighted yet in anyone´s post match analysis:
Yoshida´s significant tendency to miss BIG chances.
For crying out loud: We should have won 4-3! I seriously mean that.
There is a reason for bringing Yoshida all the way up and into the box every time we have a corner. He has been a pro for more than a decade and expectedly trained at least weekly on making an impact on dead balls / finishing in the opponent´s box..
He is supposed to:
1) win headers in the opponent´s box and direct at target (and not too close to the keeper), AND
2) win second balls and direct the bloody thing at target (and not too close to the keeper)

He does win a fair amount of headers and second balls in the opponent´s box,
BUT WHERE THE HELL IS THE END PRODUCT? It´s almost time wasting to bring him forward for corners and stuff like that.... :(
Bl**dy fr*strating.
(Though, admittedly, he had a rare assist to Longy against Wolves).
1


SanMarco added 10:26 - Apr 22

I suppose we would forgive him if he was a brilliant defender KriSaint!!

I wonder what our points per game ratio is when both Stephens and Yoshi are both in starting XI....

Jimmy Melia's point about whether we want Ings is a very important one for the summer.
3


Geoff78 added 18:02 - Apr 22

Well, how inevitable was that? Rs definitely deserved a draw and arguably, esp in the first half, were the better team. I thought Furlong was outstanding at the back and if only our passing and crossing in the final third had been better we could have comfortably won.

But, of course, the ref was bound to give a 'homer' penalty if he could. After all it is Frank Lampard's Derby. And then Joe's gaffe at the end was the icing on the cake... Or not - think that's the wrong metaphor. But we all want to see the youngsters play and if they do they will make dumb decisions from time to time.

But hats off to the team today. They were organised, knew what they were doing, pressed and tackled well. Why, oh why, can't they do it more consistently?
1


janecook added 19:15 - Apr 22

What no Verdict after that dismal display at Newcastle or are you waiting till after the Watford game? I have noticed that when we lose it takes longer to produce.
0


SaintPaulVW added 09:17 - Apr 24

Great game to watch, we played really well for 90% of the game. A point away at Watford is worth having.

A bit frustrating that we just couldn't capitalise on all our other chances or hang on to our lead but yet again we seem to struggle for hold on to the ball and manage the game when we are trying to hang on to a lead. Enormous pressure on all the defenders not to make a single error. I'm sure the usual suspect will cop some undeserved flak for a mistake caused by effectively the whole team.

Shane Long now a positive pub quiz answer who ever would have thought!

0


SaintBrock added 14:17 - Apr 24

What-if aye?
0


KriSaint added 17:32 - Apr 24

Good game. I thought Saints fought for the cause and gave it a good go in every challenge and played with a very high tempo. We should have killed the match in the second half with one or two of our best chances, but that didn´t happen, and then Watford scored in the last minute.
I honestly think we are save with that point, and I think we will get 7 poinst from our last 3 matches and end up with 44 points just below midtable.
Congratulations to Shane Long who immortalized himself with the fastest ever goal in the premier league. I will give him a new nickname, which is simply: Seven-Sixty-Seven (7.69).
WELL DONE SHANE <3.
1


codge added 18:04 - Apr 27

When l saw Stephens starting l thought oh know,the good news is we’re safe and surely we won’t have to watch him next year.Again this game showed what we need at least a defense that doesn’t cave and a front player to score although we did very well up front today. Got to give Targett credit for a cracking goal but it could of come to nothing when Stephens gave the ball away but Gunn came through with a great save.Will be looking forward to seeing what happens in the transfer market hopefully we get what we all know we’ve needed to a long time COYR.
9


Boris1977 added 18:23 - Apr 27

Missed Yoshi today. Relieved is the feeling. Glad to say goodbye to this season. No need to highlight saints' flaws but really disappointed at the boscombe play acting. Not what I'd expect from a team led by Eddie Howe who is a very good egg.
8


Boris1977 added 18:54 - Apr 27

Missed Yoshi today. Relieved is the feeling. Glad to say goodbye to this season. No need to highlight saints' flaws but really disappointed at the boscombe play acting. Not what I'd expect from a team led by Eddie Howe who is a very good egg.
0


pnc4eva1 added 20:55 - Apr 27

There were some excellent moments in the game that showed the players gad lost the ball on chain fear of relegation. Alby was superb (a player I have often critiqued) however Hamilton was to me mammoth. Ebanks was also superb and big Jim appears to have lost years
0


TimSaint added 00:24 - Apr 28

Blitzed them from the off and should really have been 3 up before Bourn scored with their first attack. How we missed so many early chances is beyond me, especially Long hitting the post from 6 yards.

Brave of Howe to change things after 20 odd mins and after that they were in the ascendency.

More awful defending again let them get in front and later draw level and then nearly win it. So many frustrating miss-placed passes, ball watching, letting the ball bounce then not winning the header etc. We do so well to get in front, only to see stupid mistakes punished, where as we don't punish their many errors.

With the chances created, we still did enough to easily draw and probably win it, so with a clear out of 10+, buy 4 or 5 and a good preseason, we should be fine for next term.
8


forallthesaints added 00:43 - Apr 28

When I chose to support Southampton (actually Southampton chose me in a sense) back in the mid-60s, I was a child without a care in the world. If I'd known then what agony I would suffer as a Saints fan, I might have gone for the easy option of Manure or one of the other biggies but I wouldn't have had half as much fun. But by God, my blood pressure! This was a great game for the neutral. We pounded a poor bunch of Cherries for the first 25 minutes with some sublime play but then they started to join in and it became a lot more difficult. For all the to and fro, I believe we were overall the better team and deserved to win but then Armstrong did what he did and the equaliser was inevitable. Having said that he was being hampered and had he gone down, he might have got a foul.
Yes, it was a fun game but it was seriously marred by Bournemouth's cheating when they were level and ahead. Funny how none of their players rolled in agony when they fell behind again. The play-acting to waste time with spurious injuries was disgraceful and the ref should have got a hold on it. It wasn't even subtle. I've always had a bit of a soft spot for Bournemouth as friendly local rivals but after that display of shamateur dramatics, they've fallen a peg or several in my estimation. And golden boy Eddie Howe would have been perfectly happy with those tactics. Not impressed.
But Saints are safe (as, realistically, we have been for several weeks) so that doesn't matter too much but it still leaves a bit of a taste.
9


KriSaint added 09:56 - Apr 28

Very entertaining match. Saints really came flyingfrom the start like RH has taught them, and we could have lead 3-0 after 15 minutes and 5-0 after 20. Instead it was 1-1 after 20 minutes as Bournemouth, totally against run of play, suddenly hit us on the brake with a deadly counter attack.
With 1-2 at half time I didn´t have much faith, as the last 5 times this scoreline has been the case in half time we have lost. But this time it ended 3-3 and we almost won it 3-2. Credit to RH´s ability to change tactics during a match. His match managing was excellent. With Cardiff loosing to Fulham one point was enough to secure PL football next season. Well done RH and Saints.
Redmond worked hard but couldn´t hit a barn door but he had a fine assist for Longys goal to 1-0.
1


SaintBrock added 10:43 - Apr 28

Nightmare on Brittania Road.
1


felixstowe_jack added 11:43 - Apr 28

Wonderful first half display but should have scored more than one goal. Second half poor display never got into any pattern of play. Once we got our second goal we were packed and ready for our Summer holidays. Let a very poor Hull side back into the game.

This game pretty much sums up our season.
0


I_would added 17:20 - May 4

Prowsey came on 67' at 1-0 down. They scored on 69' and 72'. All over. Thanks Prowsey!
5


codge added 17:44 - May 4

Well one thing this proves is that what we have been saying for ever that the deadwood is still the deadwood,Stephens once again shite, Forster shite, Long back to nervous Nellie in front of goal again.Redmond had a awful game can't pass and can't shoot, and as for Elyounoussi he is never ever going to make it in the Premier league.Only thing good for me was l got the score correct,original score l had was lose 2-1 but when l saw Stephens to start changed it to 3-0.At least now Ralf must surely see what we all see.
Nobody actually had a good game today, onward and upward next season COYR.
7


SaintBrock added 18:28 - May 4

One to forrget. Shame for the fans who went up, club should reimburse them. Bloody funny team selection, surely Hutch knew enough about the fringe players not to take the risk on playing them or doesn't he care about finishing 17th. Well he is responsible for today's fiasco solely and playing to lose smacked a little bit of arrogance to me

The annointed one was bang on form today even falling over in his own box when a tackle would have been easier.

One more yellow and Oriol will have the complete set and can swap them for a dunces hat!
0


EDLiner added 23:19 - May 4

I have no idea what Ralf was thinking today. It was a case of playing players who we already know are not good enough. Forster can't catch a cold in a hospital let alone a ball. El-no-usey is just that. Stephens seems to have become Championship class. Stuart Armstrong would be great for say Derby or Forest. This side needs some serious surgery in the summer. If you count the money wasted on these players and all those on loan and you realise just how bad the Reed/Krueger time was. I almost think Ralf used this to show how bad the fringe players are. As for I_Would... you can't blame Prowsey. He came on and put the ball in to great areas.
-1


vanmans added 09:26 - May 5

The game changed for the worse when Armstrong went off and the lightweight Ward-Prowse came on. Danny Ings was once again ineffective and looks a complete waste of £20 million. Jack Stephens has to go along with Elyounoussi. Valery also had a poor game yesterday giving the ball away for the first goal. Looks like Mr Gao needs to spend a lot of money to replace the rubbish we have built up over the last 3 years.
5


SaintPaulVW added 10:20 - May 5

I saw things a bit differently from most of the above. This is just my perspective but Ely looked a lot better to me, that's not too much praise as he was dire earlier in the season. His final ball was better and he did some good stuff of the Ings and long non scoring variety but that doesn't count for much with most people, Armstrong was totally lightweight and ineffective , I'm leaning towards the flog him off camp as our midfield is so strong, and poor old Forster was looking okay but fell off fast and looks spent, ......that second goal jeez. Until Redmond came on we looked to be preparing for our summer break . Ralph hopefully was using this free game to look at a few players but if that was a serious team picked to get a result against West Ham, he made a big mistake. Oh well, bring on next season, this one is done.
-4


SaintBrock added 14:05 - May 5

Maybe there's a conspiracy going on in the Premier League, the way team picks a crap side so that the home team is guaranteed a win in their last home game of the season so fans go home happy and team of better things next year and crucially stand in line to renew their season tickets?

Well, you never know... nothing is impossible.

... er, Ward Prowse winning a one on one tackle maybe.
2


KriSaint added 14:22 - May 5

Decent first 15 minutes of the second half. Apart from that a game to forget as fast as possible.
Elyounouissi got a full game and the writing on the wall couldn´t be more clear: Thanks and goodbuy.
Stephens gave away too many balls, even for his standards.
Lemina tried hard but nothing came of it.
I guess the game what valuable for RH in a sense.
1


I_would added 18:15 - May 12

Luckily the stream kept stopping.
1


halftimeorange added 18:29 - May 12

The most exciting moment for me was leaving St Marys to go home.
5


codge added 19:11 - May 12

Well that was a complete let down,great goal from Redmond but please learn to pass by the time you come back next season.We still lost points again from the defense although it was the keeper this time who normally is the one you don't expect to make the mistake.Hopefully we get rid of the deadwood that is so obvious so we don't have to go through another season like these last two.Nobody covered there selves in glory this game but we go on and think positive that under Ralf next year will be a lot better with a full season under him,that's 65 years supporting Saints never a dull moment,but God willing next year l will make 66 COYS.
10


KriSaint added 20:08 - May 12

I didn´t see the game, unfortunately. I´m waiting for more comments on both the game and the post match atmosphere at Saint Mary´s. Did any players (Austin?) look like saying goodbye like Tadic did last year after the last game of the season?
0


Boris1977 added 20:12 - May 12

I'm supposed to be in the office tomorrow. I might pull a Sainty. I'll turn up at my desk, mis- send the odd email and then drop a few sensitive documents on the floor. Roll my eyes and then sit in front of my computer going through the motions. But do it really absent me mindedly as I'm on holiday the following week.

Could I ask that each of you on this brilliant website donate £40 to my bank account please? I'll give you a lazy little clap if you do. Cheers, have a good summer.
2


saintjf added 20:47 - May 12

A strong line up for a game that did not matter. Thank goodness it did not matter. Imagine if relegation had been between us and Cardiff. Cardiff at Man U and Saints with a home game against Huddersfield.... We are not very good as our position in the table clearly reflects.
7


sidsaint added 20:53 - May 12

The game summed up the season. Unable to hang on to a lead and giving away silly goals. At least we have a manager who knows the score and what needs to be done. Lets hope we have a board who will back him.
8


SaintPaulVW added 21:11 - May 12

Dull game which showed really why we are where we are. All our full backs had already mentally packed and gone on holiday, our strikers were back to their old tippy tappy hesitant ways trying to pass the ball into the net rather than shoot, and an individual error in defence cancelled out a great goal and from a winning position...again.

Best bit about the game: Iron Fran at half time and his reception

Bit that totally summed up the game:the bloke 'running' on the pitch, bowing to every stand while being pursued at an equally slow rate by the groundstaff, who also looked like they couldn't really be bothered.

Thank F that season is over. Hope Ralph is given what he needs to have a good crack at next year. Best wishes to all Saints fans for a great summer.
8


SaintBrock added 21:46 - May 12

Thank goodness this season is over. Absolute s**** at the beginning, absolute s**** at the end.

A whole season of "we need to learn from our mistakes" , a whole season and they have learned nothing at all.

What a load of aimless crap we had to put up with today, half this team needs putting out of their misery for good. No wonder there were hundreds of empty seats and thousands left before the final while thousands more couldn't be bothered to stay for the lap of appreciation.

Hutch was not at all happy with what he saw today and clearly wants and expects big changes over the summer. We must hope that Gao can match his ambition. The next three months may well decide our future as a Premier League club.
7


TimSaint added 22:15 - May 12

Promised an attacking performance from a team wanting to win the game, but RH didn't sufficiently motivate his team and we got a typical end of season nothing performance.
Far too pedestrian like all our performances since we have been virtually safe, only this time we didn't concede the usual 3 goals !!
Had some good chances but were frustrating in front of goal. Ings wants too many touches instead of shooting first time, JWP too scared to shoot and has to get everything into his right foot all the time, Redmond although prepared to run at them, needs to know when to pass or shoot. He got a super goal, but unfortunately after that, the team thought they had done enough and went back to slow mode.
With 20 mins left in front of over 30k fans, you would think they would want to win the game and put in a performance for the fans, but no. Players became lazy and didn't seem to want to amend Gunn's error.
The game was summer up as we approached injury time. The fans wanted us to press forward and get a winner, but Stephens was content with passing it back to the keeper on at least 3 occasions.

Not much to cheer about, so further proof that RH has a massive rebuilding job ahead of him. Need to get rid of at least 10 or 12 and sign 4 or 5.

Finally well done to Iron Fran.
8


JimmyMeliaPhD added 06:19 - May 13

Not worth rating the players or reporting on the match. Except maybe to give 10/10 to Austin, Long, Stephens as parting gifts. I hope. The point now is to see how this weird squad gets shuffled.
I personally want to see us be rid of Stephens, Austin, Long, Elyanoussi, Gallagher.
And I think we'll sell McCarthy too.
And I think that it would be a mistake, especially if there's not much money floating around, to outright buy Ings.

Just imagine how everyone's going to feel if our main striker on the first day next season is Ings, Austin or Long. Even the biggest optimist would have to give up at that point. So this all means we'll be needing new strikers. Clearly Obafemi is going to be one. Maybe try Carillo out under new management. But definitely at least one new striker required, as we all know.

I think loanees Reed and Hesketh will be given a chance to make the team.

And I think some youngsters will also be blooded, including Alfie Jones at CB.
But even so, a good centre back is needed, as we all know.

So I don't really expect many new signings. In fact we'll make more progress with "addition by subtraction," getting rid of unproductive resources. IMHO next year will be an evolution mostly from below with youngsters, plus a new striker and new CB.

You read it here first (ha-ha! Pretty much what everyone's been saying all season).



2


JimmyMeliaPhD added 15:25 - May 13

Not worth rating the players or reporting on the match. Except maybe to give 10/10 to Austin, Long, Stephens as parting gifts. I hope. The point now is to see how this weird squad gets shuffled.
I personally want to see us be rid of Stephens, Austin, Long, Elyanoussi, Gallagher.
And I think we'll sell McCarthy too.
And I think that it would be a mistake, especially if there's not much money floating around, to outright buy Ings.

Just imagine how everyone's going to feel if our main striker on the first day next season is Ings, Austin or Long. Even the biggest optimist would have to give up at that point. So this all means we'll be needing new strikers. Clearly Obafemi is going to be one. Maybe try Carillo out under new management. But definitely at least one new striker required, as we all know.

I think loanees Reed and Hesketh will be given a chance to make the team.

And I think some youngsters will also be blooded, including Alfie Jones at CB.
But even so, a good centre back is needed, as we all know.

So I don't really expect many new signings. In fact we'll make more progress with "addition by subtraction," getting rid of unproductive resources. IMHO next year will be an evolution mostly from below with youngsters, plus a new striker and new CB.

You read it here first (ha-ha! Pretty much what everyone's been saying all season).



0


JimmyMeliaPhD added 15:26 - May 13

Not worth rating the players or reporting on the match. Except maybe to give 10/10 to Austin, Long, Stephens as parting gifts. I hope. The point now is to see how this weird squad gets shuffled.
I personally want to see us be rid of Stephens, Austin, Long, Elyanoussi, Gallagher.
And I think we'll sell McCarthy too.
And I think that it would be a mistake, especially if there's not much money floating around, to outright buy Ings.

Just imagine how everyone's going to feel if our main striker on the first day next season is Ings, Austin or Long. Even the biggest optimist would have to give up at that point. So this all means we'll be needing new strikers. Clearly Obafemi is going to be one. Maybe try Carillo out under new management. But definitely at least one new striker required, as we all know.

I think loanees Reed and Hesketh will be given a chance to make the team.

And I think some youngsters will also be blooded, including Alfie Jones at CB.
But even so, a good centre back is needed, as we all know.

So I don't really expect many new signings. In fact we'll make more progress with "addition by subtraction," getting rid of unproductive resources. IMHO next year will be an evolution mostly from below with youngsters, plus a new striker and new CB.

You read it here first (ha-ha! Pretty much what everyone's been saying all season).



0


enfieldargh added 18:19 - Aug 3

Superb Win so much effort teamwork mentally and physically superior than stoke

Vokes and afobe two old cart horses ready for the knackers yard
0


Yorkshire_Dale added 18:51 - Aug 3

Get in!......3 well deserved points and a great team performance. No-one let the side down today,well done all at the Club(and the fans)
0


Garnham added 23:35 - Aug 3

Unexpected but take that any day. We looked very sharp down the right side. Barbet Hall and Cameron huge on opening day. Osayi-Samuel and Eze look ready to take a big step. Given us all a giant spring in our step. Well done yourRs
0


liamoliam added 10:26 - Aug 4

Ryan Manning is playing with confidence and determination. Did well when he moved into midfield later in the game with some solid challenges so now provides much needed flexibility in the team.
0


dangould added 15:16 - Aug 4

Eze, Manning, BOS GETS ALL THE GLORY I don’t mind that but the save from Joe Lumly minutes before we scored was so important. At that time it was all Stoke but once we scored we played the best away football for a good few years, the second goal could have been scored by Stan Bowles, we held on at the end but overall we really deserved the 3 points. Great to see the team and supporters celebrating at the end.
0


I_would added 17:40 - Aug 10

Prowsey Captain, well that was a good idea. Vestergard, is he on valium?, Stephens, no comment. Valery, get him off and put Cedric on, too immature. Romeu , too slow. JWP waste of space, anyone who didn't have an insurance bet on when they saw him as Captain missed out. Redmond should be forced at gunpoint, if necessary, to pass the bloody ball. Ings, did he kick the ball? Adams, has promise. Apart from that, great. Oh, and the manager needs a mate to help him.
6


codge added 17:46 - Aug 10

Looked like l was watching last season all over again,defense looked like the same a disaster waiting to happen.
Surely we have to of learned our lessons from the last 2yrs but you wouldn't of thought so watching this game.Next up Liverpool boy do we need to improve on this to have any hope of a result.as soon as l saw Stephens my stomach sunk and l wanted to throw up, really though no one covered themselves with anything more than mediocre.
Surely this has to get better as this was the first game but it looked like we could be in for long season,hope not Cory.
10


10i added 17:48 - Aug 10

Well, today we unfortunately got see, what this summer happened - despite it shouldn't have happened.
Everyone knew there was one position we needed to get better - and we simply didn't, bar from a "one for the future" loan on deadline day. And that DM spot was the second to improve, cause in romeu and Hojbjerg we've only got two of tjose (not a single defender in the world wants to be shielded by JWP). One was ill and well...
I'm a big fan of Hasenhüttl, but there was a lot wrong that last window and today. Nobody here needs djenepo now, let's be honest. It's 12-14 Mio. for someone "nice to have". Let's buy him if you have everything else sorted and got money left to spend. Butto buy him state that from now on you have to sell and getting a CD depends on departures, means there are some people making decisions, who shouldn't make them.
And so there obviously was no money left for players we all are crying for since years now. That transfer window was Shit. End of.
To talk about today, to play Stephens, just because Yoshida may be off in the next weeks, is Shit decision making. You have to play the best that are available to you at any time. Do the best for the club. Of course nobody will buy Stephens (his contract has to make every proper footballer laugh), but to play him just because of that?? He didn't really make it in L1, even RH, who came here later, should have figured that out by now.
If Hojbjerg can sit, then he can play. He's that far above the rest (which tells you something).
JWP a captain? If a player like that would ever have captained my team, I would have laughed the whole day and lost 0:3 by purpose. Oh. You need vocal player there. Someone who never gives up. Stephens would have been about 50 times better as captain,as you need someone with an unbelievable fighting spirit or someone who is just gifted.
Gunn was not without fault too, he could have done better with the first and the third. McCarthy is still here. It didn't work to get him out. So please play the better goalie, which unfortunately isn't Gunn. But this was the smaller issue today, I think...
4


SaintPaulVW added 19:00 - Aug 10

Disaster darling!

Only positive is Che didn't get sent off for that clodhopper challenge.

Looked evenly matched but then Vestergaard drops a bol0k and it all goes pear shaped. Hey ho, we march on!
3


corkcitysaint added 19:43 - Aug 10

Sobering...
0


Boris1977 added 19:45 - Aug 10

BAU
0


Boris1977 added 20:02 - Aug 10

BAU
0


vanmans added 21:00 - Aug 10

Is this the Worst Start to a Season Ever? Why oh why did we not get 2 central defenders at the start of the transfer window? Why replace Ings with Obafemi when they are both the same type players? If we havnt got 2 good central defenders why play 3 of them? When is Cédric Soares going to start instead of Valery? When we went behind why did Djenepo not come on?



1


KriSaint added 21:23 - Aug 10

We were ok for an hour and looked like the team in control. Them came a series of horrendous defending by first and foremost Jannick Vestergaard, and we lost 3 - 0.
He has to loose his place because of being heavily involved in all 3 goals.

First goal he misjudged his position when trying to clear a long ball with his head, and Barnes was one on one with Gunn.
Second goal he was at least 2 yards away from the man he should have marked, Barnes, and a cross came in for Barnes to volley home.
Third goal he cleared a cross very weakly with his head and the ball went towards Bertrand who didn´t expect to get the ball, and from, what I saw it seemed Bertie didn´t have time and balance to fight wholeheartedly for the ball and he was perhaps fouled in the duel for it. Gudmondsen, or whatever his name is, took the ball and ran into the box with it and finished into the far corner. Vestergaard should have run back faster and tackled Gudmondsen. Apparently VAR didn´t think Bertrand was fouled.
6


allsaint54 added 22:25 - Aug 10

Same old, same old. Can't defend, can't score, create next to nothing. No fight in the side, where are the leaders. JWP captain - utter joke.
6


allsaint54 added 22:26 - Aug 10

Same old, same old. Can't defend, can't score, create next to nothing. No fight in the side, where are the leaders. JWP captain - utter joke.
0


Garnham added 23:20 - Aug 10

81% pass success says a lot about where we are heading. Agree that we lost 2 points today but am feeling much better than I expected I would, after the first two games! COYRS
0


kristianJ added 00:03 - Aug 11

Terrible weather and the result wasn’t much better. However, didn’t think we played too badly up until the first goal. Basically had 15 mins of sloppy defending, with Vestergaard being most culpable. We kept hitting long high balls to our front 3, who were never going to win anything in the air against Mee and Tarkowski. Not sure that JWP and Stephens warrant some of the criticism above.
-5


smegma added 08:15 - Aug 11

Please do not allow Barbet any where near free kicks in future. Now watch him score a screamer !!!
0


MelakaRanger added 08:24 - Aug 11

A very encouraging performance. Much better than
I expected two games into the season.
Most definitely the better of the two teams. If only we hadn’t given that unnecessary penalty. Two points given away for sure

COYRs
0


deanosfc8 added 09:09 - Aug 11

At the start I was openly optimistic, by the end reality kicked in.
The only positive is how Adams stayed on the pitch.
2


SanMarco added 13:31 - Aug 11

Well my optimism disappeared as quickly as the England batsmen did the other day. The club has made its bed on the CB options and all of us now have to lie on it. Let's hope this new lad is at least good enough to form a partnership with Bednarek in a back four. Far too early to despair on the attacking front. Would have been a totally different game if we had gone 1 up but we didn't and 'capitulation' followed.
2


helpineedsomebody added 16:24 - Aug 11

bring back NC NOW
1


Badlands added 23:20 - Aug 13

Another first half in which we huffed puffed and got nowhere.
Cabango (as I have been waging on about) was well worth his place (my MoM) and Wilmot showed a lot of confidence but seemed to waste a lot of possession.
The game came to light with the introduction of Garrick and, of course, Ayew.
Routledge and Naughton both showed their class and with John, Chanda and Byers having there moments.
The down-side for me was the performance of Surridge and to to a less extent Peterson.
Early days and all that but I really haven't seen what Surridge brings to the table!
All in all a frustration 70 minutes followed by a storming finish.
0


smegma added 12:17 - Aug 14

No one deserved to lose that game, I thought both teams played some excellent football. Not sure about our penalty though. Good to see Nahki get off the mark and tuck his penalty as well. All this positivity about the place is confusing me as a pessimist !!!
0


KriSaint added 23:54 - Aug 14

My starting line up for the Liverpool game:

Gunn
Yoshida, Bednarek, Danso,
Valery, Jwp, Højbjerg, Bertrand
Djenepo, Adams, Redmond

Bench:
McCarthy
Vestergaard
Cedric
Romeu
Armstrong
Long
Ings
0


I_would added 17:18 - Aug 17

Always knew the result as soon as I saw Prowsey was starting. That's two now he's started, no points. Djenepo was our best player, why didn't he start? Ings was good as well, why didn't he start. I'm beginning to wonder about RH now, doesn't seem to know the strongest team.
-8


leedsu1 added 17:32 - Aug 17

Pablo not at his greatest (nice free kick aside). Harrison all scurry and tear but end result disappointing at time. Forshaw immense. Would have changed Pablo for Costa for speed. Kiich with a hell of a shift. All in all, a little tentative to shoot.
0


SaintPaulVW added 18:30 - Aug 17

We deserved something after that first half performance. Same old story though all over them and can't convert into goals. Ings almost knicked something though and Evans really should have scored in the first half.

Gunn was great, Bednarek is now infected with dodgy CB disease, Djenepo looks good. Not too sure I want to see Evans crossing from the wingto Redmond in the box too often. Not really what we pay him for!

All in all a lot better than last week but now left with that agonising 'if only' feeling. COYS!
3


SaintBrock added 19:22 - Aug 17

One that got away. Bednarek the bad boy this week. Ings, what does he offer? A striker that misses sitters. Hoj a bit off colour still.

Romeu & Ward Drowse jointly our MotM
2


SaintBrock added 19:25 - Aug 17

Who in heck's name is Evans SaintPaulVW. We have a lad called Adams?

Maybe Adam & Eve has caused your confusion?
7


TimSaint added 20:10 - Aug 17

Micky Evans ?

Remember him well - helped keep us up in 97
1


codge added 20:30 - Aug 17

If only we could cutout the obvious which has become part of every game now we would be so much better of.l am still not convinced that Valery is the answer to the right back position, fo me he doesn't track back enough to help out.
Did like what l saw in Djenepo hope he gets to start against Brighton.Hopefully next week will be a better result,Coyr.
4


SaintJohn1972 added 23:10 - Aug 17

Deserved at least a draw today.
Che Adams impressed me - think he’ll shine against lesser opponents and with better support.
Nathan Redmond - worst player on pitch today for Saints - poor anticipation, lazy & weak, failing to hold any balls up, win anything and just gave up each time
4


SaintPaulVW added 23:41 - Aug 17

Saintbrock - lol fair cop. I think I'm stuck in the 90's!
0


fubsy added 14:46 - Aug 18

Good to see Yosh back. My impression at the time was Gunn might have saved their second. Overall, I thought we played quite well and could have had a draw. Tactically, I thought Ralph had it right - the Liverpool fullbacks were pushed back, we were very compact. I thought Oriol was immense and I am becoming very frustrated with Andre Mariner's decisions.

COYS

3


KriSaint added 15:31 - Aug 18

My only critisism goes to Højbjerg for not putting in a bloody block/tackle when Mané scored.
Don´t tell me that he couldn´t put his foot in , or even better - his whole body - to prevent Mané (probably the most dangerous man with the ball at the edge of the box in the premier league) from shooting.
I hate to call Højbjerg a ball watcher, but ball watching was what he was doing in that situation.
I wanna see some bloody tackling/blocking when any player has the ball at the edge of our penalty box.
Otherwise a very good performance by Saints,
and Liverpool had their normal ever-present small-margins- luck, which is ultimately why they won.
Yoshida not heading the ball in the net in the first half from an otherwise fine header (which should have been headed more downwards) and Ings not hitting target and equalizing from the 6-yard box at the end, was painful to watch.
Saints Motm Gunn or Romeu. Good 20 minutes from Djenepo on his debut.
5


SaintBrock added 18:25 - Aug 18

KriSaint, Hojberg did not play well yesterday in fact he played poorly by his usual standard whether he was still out of sorts is hard to say but he seemed too hesitant both on and off the ball
3


ianr added 19:21 - Aug 18

I wouldn't - prowse played well, why blame him!
4


Yorkshire_Dale added 22:57 - Aug 20

Sent us home happy, even in defeat....big well played to all our lot.
0


Yorkshire_Dale added 22:58 - Aug 20

Sent us home happy, even in defeat....big well played to all our lot.
0


Geoff78 added 17:04 - Aug 22

A good match. In spite of conceding 3 goals there were signs of promise in Rs performance. They attacked with pace, managed some crisp first-time passing, pressed and showed some good movement. The problem was Swansea did most of this better than us, esp pressing. They robbed our players several times, or maybe we gave the ball away or were out-muscled. They got away with a few fouls but generally pressed and tackled well. And they finished. We created a number of openings but often failed to hit the target.
Warbs made good positive substitutions although in retrospect it would have been good to bring on Chair when Amos was injured and move Smith back. Chair has looked very good in his sub appearances this season and must be due a starting place.
If we can stop giving away silly goals and improve our shooting the season should improve considerably. And then again I've watched Rangers long enough to know that hope isn't usually enough.
0


6inarow added 19:08 - Aug 22

Sunderland fan here. Just to let you all know we all think you were robbed. Everyone was very impressed by your energy and confidence. We looked totally second best and but for two or three good performers.... at CH and GK mainly.... we would have deservedly lost. Good luck for the season, am sure you'll be top 8 for the whole season.
0


I_would added 17:07 - Aug 24

Could've been 10-0 if Prowsey, Romeu and Hojberg had stayed at home.
-4


SaintBrock added 18:29 - Aug 24

Credit to Hutch for re-integrating Sofiane Boufal and bringing in Djenepo, discredit to Hutch for a lousy team selection that would have cost us dearly but for the red card and sticking with players like Ings who never deliver and Ward Drowse who seems to have no clear position that he can nail down. Ref good today.
5


vanmans added 18:56 - Aug 24

Good win considering the bad starting line up. It is time to drop the under preforming JWP. Next Saturday I would start Djenepo and Boufal. I would also start Long instead of Ings and maybe Cedric instead of Valery.
5


darthvader added 19:07 - Aug 24

I concur with vanmans completely☝
5


leighsaint added 19:41 - Aug 24

I would like to know when our hard pressing and chasing down every ball is going to start. Another lack lustre performance from saints. Brighton still looked more fit and up for it than us. At times it looked like we had ten men only thing that helped us what a great goal.
2


Parechart added 20:22 - Aug 24

gret defence...nothing up front.
0


Geoff78 added 20:51 - Aug 24

Game of 2 halves. Poor in the first 45, dominant in the second. As a result player ratings difficult to judge - depends which half you count. Thought Lumley might have done better for Wigan goal and Barbet was esp poor in first half so putting Leistner on was an excellent substitution. One of the great strengths of Warbs, so far, is his use of subs.

But in the second half Eze and esp Chair were brilliant, well, very good at least. So in spite of not playing as well as they did on Wednesday an excellent 3 points.



0


SaintPaulVW added 21:43 - Aug 24

Interesting isn't it. Last week we played well in the first half but lost. This week we didn't play as well but got 2 really good goals and won. Looking at these comments though you would have thought we had lost again. I agree though with some of the above Boufal deserves a start.
4


codge added 22:22 - Aug 24

We got 3pts but we make hard work to get them. Valery needs to be on the bench for a while and get Cedric in for a start.Confusing line up to start with and we rode our luck for a time,Boufal looked good along with Djenepo they look like a real threat.Wish Redmond would pass to his teammates instead of giving the ball away to much,still he did get on the score sheet.l agree lngs needs to be rested did very little to warrant starting .
3


aceofthebase added 10:31 - Aug 25

Two great performances by the subs. Great strike by Moussa and mesmerising runs from Sofiane. A little disappointed with Hojbjerg who hasn't reached last seasons standard I agree that JWP and Ings had low average games.
We gave Danso a start and he played well out of position, it may be a while before he plays as a CB, difficult to judge, we will have to rely on Hutch's assessment.
We must persevere with Valery, he hasn't cost us goals yet as Cedric regularly did, tho again it wasn't his best day.
The main point is that we are now off and running, a certain three points next week and we will be in the top half of the table.
-1


SaintBrock added 12:36 - Aug 25

Credit to Hutch for re-integrating Sofiane Boufal and bringing in Djenepo, discredit to Hutch for a lousy team selection that would have cost us dearly but for the red card and sticking with players like Ings who never deliver and Ward Drowse who seems to have no clear position that he can nail down. Ref good today.
0


KriSaint added 12:53 - Aug 25

As nail-biting an event as expected. The match was played in a pretty high tempo and Brighton were good value for their money. Much more of a ball playing side than under Hughton. Saints managed to keep up with the tempo and things were pretty even when Andone made that maniac tackle just below Valery´s right knee, which took an awkward twist , and for a moment I geared the worst. Andone - the SoB - was sent off of course and the numerical advantage soon showed. Brighton were still figting to get something out of the game, but in the 54.thn minute Ralph H. put on Djenepo, and it didn´t take him more than a minute to to make 2 dribbles from the left side towards the middle where he found enough space to pull the tricker and fire a fierce shot from which the ball took a trajectory towards the far, upper corner. BANG. 1-0.
Later Boufal was sent on and he succeeded in taking the ball to the by line in the left side whereafter he sent a hard, precise, low ball across the face of goal past the keeper, which Redmond managed to put his right food to, which meant that the ball was hammered into the middle of the goal. 2-0. Game over. 3 points in the bank.
GREAT FEELING. :) <3
1


Badlands added 16:05 - Aug 25

Another game that was hard to judge - we were never under pressure from Brum but how much was down to our play and how much down to an appalling display by the visitors.
I welcomed the swift slick passing of the second half but am still worriesd at the amount of possession coughed up by our fullbacks and midfield, pariculalry in the first half.
0


SaintBrock added 10:30 - Aug 28

Very much a game of two halves. Best we forget about the first. Dreadful finishing, why haven't we hired Ricky Lambert to show them how it should be done. Ings does not convince, the more he plays the worse he seems to get. Needs to get his head sorted out. Lucky for him that Adams still has a lot to learn.
0


TimSaint added 11:00 - Aug 28

Truly awful 1st half against Fulham Reserves, with no pressing, ball retention, possession or decent passing.

Much improved 2nd half, but still need to take out chances - should have scored 5.

Hope Redmond is ok for Saturday.
2


SaintNick added 12:24 - Aug 28

SaintBrock, have you watched the first goal at Brighton on Saturday on TV, if not do so and then talk to me about who created the goal
3


SaintBrock added 12:52 - Aug 28

He may convince you Nick but he does not convince me. His job is to put the ball in the net not provide assists for others. If he does both then fine but he does not.
-1


I_would added 13:54 - Aug 28

Wrong starting 11 again. Wrong tactics again. What will we get on Saturday, it's anyone's guess.
-2


KriSaint added 16:49 - Aug 29

Great understanding between Obafemi and Redmond for a great matchwinner.
2 clean sheets in a row now.
With just a little bit of luck Danny could have had a hattrick and even Long should have had a sitter.
We were aggressive and bombarded their goal in the second half with lots of shots.. Very satisfactory.
McCarthy had a great safe in the first half. I have no trouble with him deputising for Gunn in any match :)
Up the Saints. What is it - 3-4 points to a top 6 place? COYS.
0


I_would added 15:42 - Aug 31

Prowsey played his usual game. He is reliable.
4


NewburySaint added 15:45 - Aug 31

Great 1st 10, very poor rest of 1st half, great battling, tenacious 2nd half.
Not a lot more to say other Højbjerg still looks off the pace & JWP has still not turned up this season.......
10


vanmans added 15:54 - Aug 31

ITS TIME TO DROP WARD-PROWSE
5


I_would added 16:30 - Aug 31

He's like a baby undroppable.
4


halftimeorange added 16:34 - Aug 31

Where were our two main strikers? Is Ings supposed to link up play between the midfield and the front - he certainly doesn't. Adams was never in the game - he doesn't work hard enough for me. JWP is consistently responsible for slowing up our forward movement or, indeed, stopping it altogether. Hail Oriol Romeu and Angus Gunn, both superb. And a word, too for a reinvigorated Boufal (why was he taken off instead of JWP?) and a clap on the back for Vestergaard who made several key interceptions. The usual imbalanced performance from referee Mike Dean but, I have to agree that Danso had to walk. Kevin is likely to spend a lot of this season suspended unless his brain clicks into gear. A brilliant result all in al however, United were beatable today and with eleven men we might have succeeded.
10


claus5 added 16:36 - Aug 31

PEH was so bad today he made Pogba look like a world beater. But for some reason he appears above critasism, if JWP played like that people would explode with rage. Congratulations to Vestagaard, he deserved that goal for an all round performance.
2


dirk_doone added 17:11 - Aug 31

Overall, a good team performance. United looked disorganised and shambolic at times and until Danso was sent off I thought we looked the more likely winners.

That was easily the best Vestergaard has played for us. I'd never rated him until today but a back 4 seems to suit him. Kevin Danso was very good. Pity about the red card.

As has been mentioned, our only real weak link was Ward-Prowse. The game just seemed to pass him by. I don't agree with the criticism of Hojbjerg. He had twice as many touches and tackles as Ward-Prowse, for whom he was trying to cover a lot of the time. I definitely would not play Ward-Prowse v Pompey. Hopefully, we'll have Djenepo back by then.
8


saintjf added 17:21 - Aug 31

Agree with halftime orange. What might have been with 11 men. Utd are not getting any better. Not sure about Adams but early days. He keeps up with game and hopefully sharpen up. Sadly I am not sure what Armstrong brings. Had high hopes for him but he struggles to keep up and loses the ball. Long still useful.Boufal so skillful at times. I would normally try and defend JWP but too slow and sideways today. A point is good with 10 men.
6


smegma added 19:47 - Aug 31

The BBC report mentions Wendy's had only lost twice in their last 16 home games. Make that 3 in 17 and we managed it twice in 3 months !!!
0


KriSaint added 19:53 - Aug 31

Very, very, very important point confidence wise and "season defining" wise. Good mood before the international break after which some very important winnable games will come.

Gunn: Good lad

Bednarek: Very reliable

Vestergaard: Best game in a Saints shirt. GREAT goal. Good timing. Good thinking. Focused for 96 minutes.

Soares: I really like the guy for his positivity and loyalty and obvious friendship-building skills, but his distribution today was not good. He didn´t look quick compared to Daniel James. I still think we need him, though.

Danso: Good game , Lad, a little unlucky with the second yellow as he actually DID touch the ball in that tackle! Looks like a very good signing. Can´t believe he can play left back so well AND take the ball forward with pace down the left hand side. Could ultimately have cost us the point but he didn´t!

Romeu: 3 years younger and 4 kilos lighter??? VERY good game.

JWP: Also approved performance but less brilliant than the 2 steel midfielders of ours. I think he deserves to stay in the team.

Højbjerg: Good game from our captain. But stop diving. Now.

Boufal: Good game. Very positive. He plays with a smile on his face and is dangerous. Well done Ralphy.

Ings: Well fought. I believe in him. We have not seen his best yet but I think it will come. I really do. Awesome assist vs Brighton in my book!!

Adams: Hmmmmmm. beter luck next time. I´d like Ralph to trust in him and keep him in the team for the next games, but I am beginning to worry a little bit because of his shitty finishing so far.

Long: Typical die hard fight, but stop bringing the ball to the corner in the final minutes and instantly give away a throw in. Take the ball inside and blast the ball in the net in stead. Honestly!

Yoshida: Great jump in. Several not so easy clearances. Seemed very confident and leading from first second.

Armstrong: I like him. Good engine. Good going forward and defending.

Happy weekend everybody.
3


underweststand added 21:19 - Aug 31

Some good saves from Angus Gunn....Cedric turning in a shift again despite obvious shortcomings... Bednarek and Vestergaard beginning to look like the best CB and one year on Vestergaard seems to have finally " come of age " -a very good performance.
Danso looked good before his red card, but like Djenepo he has to adapt to the pace of the Prem. and stop diving. Is Romeu really getting better ? ..he seems to be everywhere and is still our midfield hard man.
Hjobjerg looks a little out of place at the back but still does a captain's job all over the pitch.
Prowsie still hasn't found the form he had in the Spring, but puts himself about and shows creativity. Boufal already showing up as a most-improved player and made an excellent sub.for Redmond.
It just needs Adams to get his first goal and Ings to remember how to smile and start finding the net again.

A good result YES. Man Utd always complain about their absentees, and inconsistancy but with their resources they really ought to have done better in the last quarter against our 10 tired men.
6


SanMarco added 21:57 - Aug 31

Very good point given the sending off coming with a good 20 mins of play left.

PEH perhaps not at his best but I would cut him some slack. JWP still doesn't contribute enough for me - Danso good until that brainless tackle. The centre halves played pretty well, as did Romeu and the keeper. Boufal and Cedric gave their usual performances. The player I am worried about is Adams. I know it is early days but he looks like he's finding the step up tough. We were not great up front today. Ings and Adams do not (yet anyway) look much of a partnership.

Still, I would have settled for 4 pts from these first 4 games. We need to at least double that to 8 before we travel to Poopey and then the new Spuds patch...
1


KohSamuiSaints added 15:29 - Sep 1

Not a good or bad performance ... I wish Mario would bury the hatchet and boss our midfield ..JWP Would be good if it was American football when you could bring him on for corners and free kicks ... Mario Lamena .... SORT OUT WHATEVER YOU NEED TO DO AND PROVE TO EVERYONE WHST YOU CAN DO ON THE PITCH
1


SaintBrock added 20:49 - Sep 1

An outstanding performance by Romeu coloured in an otherwise somewhat gray and murky performance from both sides. Don't usually moan about refs but Mike Dean was simply dreadful today, so inconsistent it made your head ache just trying to figure out what he was seeing that most could not.

Danso behaving like a complete idiot didn't help us at all when we had a chance to win the game.

Ward Prowse! How come he gets to spectate for free pitch side when the rets of us have to pay £50
0


I_would added 17:42 - Sep 14

We looked much more of an attacking threat when RH finally put JWP back to RB.
1


aceofthebase added 20:30 - Sep 14

There are some exciting days ahead with Djenepo, Boufal and Redmond mesmerising defences. I fully expect Adams to regularly hit the back of the net soon.
Vestergaard had a very poor game and showed up all sorts of problems but will he feature in our next match?
Has Valery recovered fully? I would have expected him to have started, tho Cedric didn't cost us a goal this match!
Romeu was in control in the midfield and was always available to start an attack, that's what we want to see.
We were not in total control of the match but there was plenty of positive play and good spirit, the three points will boost the confidence of the whole squad.
-3


Geoff78 added 23:22 - Sep 14

As everyone will realise that was a superb first half and Eze seemed almost unplayable. Then 2 things happened: Rs got over-confident + sloppy (yes, you Joe Lumley, but there were others) and in the second half the Hatters stopped giving us so much room + showed some aggression. Oh and Hugill thought he was playing rugby and kept kicking 3 points - wrong game.

One other thought: Barbet/Manning on the left of defence are not convincing. Second Luton goal came from that area and there'd been a scare in the same area minutes before.

But some of the first half passing and movement is the best I've seen from the Rs for a long time.

1


KriSaint added 23:37 - Sep 14

Well done to all in the team. Not an easy game. Djenepo man of the match for me. He looks like a very good signing and scored a great goal. What skills he has. Great weekend to everyone.
3


nightwish added 10:24 - Sep 15

Barcelona in the first 35 mins we became Hastings United for the rest of the game.Every player 8 or 9 in the first 35 mins became 3 or 4 after that.So I have divided the average to come up with my player ratings
0


fubsy added 12:49 - Sep 15

Not pretty but effective. Moving Cedric to the left tightened things up nicely and I'd forgotten how good he is in the attacking third. Commendable performances from Maya, Jan, Oriel, Pierre, Che and Soufianne. According to the statistics United had 17 attempts off target which is the price we pay when they break the press. Having said that, Moussa's goal came from the press. I think he still needs to fully integrate - he was getting frustrated in the first half when making runs but the ball didn't arrive.
A long journey home made pleasant by the result.
1


SaintPaulVW added 06:07 - Sep 21

Poor team selection, we needed better than a makeshift defence. All the good attacking work will come to nothing if we just squander every chance without hitting the target. JWP particularly guilty of this last night. Adams needs to break his duck really quickly or we are going to drift off the pace again.
9


allsaint54 added 08:59 - Sep 21

How disappointing was that performance. Defensively we were all over the place again, partly down to Ralph's selection. You get the jitters whenever Vestergaard gets near the ball.
Having been very critical of Cedric in the past last night he was excellent.
WTF does JWP bring to the team? As an attacking midfielder does he know what a telling pass is. He's now playing like he did pre Ralph, dire. I feel sorry for Adams up front, he got no service all night.
11


aceofthebase added 09:24 - Sep 21

A disallowed goal because of a few inches offside, a penalty not given for a clear foul,.this could have been a five-nil thrashing. What the heck is going on in RH's mind that he thinks it clever to play his team in strange positions? We will have Che Adams in goal next!
All credit to Boufal and Romeu who are both playing well.
Others in the team are not and several whose names are automatically placed on the team sheet need reassessing.
I'm afraid the honeymoon period for RH has finally ended.
6


dirk_doone added 09:27 - Sep 21

We drew the 2nd half and probably would have drawn the game if we'd started it with the same formation that we finished with and if Bertrand had come on for Vestergaard instead of Danso, we probably would have won it. Beat Pompey and all is forgiven.

But, there are recurring flaws in team selection. Vestergaard has 1 solid game to every 5 poor ones. We cannot persist with him any more.

A back four of Bertrand, Danso/Yoshida, Bednarek, Cedric is the best we currently have available. The only hard choice is between Danso and Yoshida. It's difficult to judge how good a central defender Danso is yet as he has been played out of position. But, it has to be 2 out of Bednarek, Danso and Yoshida in the centre of defence because Vestergaard is a weak link.

Another weak link is Ward-Prowse in midfield. He just doesn't offer enough at this level, which stretches the players around him, which was the same thing that happened when Clasie played. As for JWP's corners and free-kicks, they nearly all go straight to opposition players or miss the goal. I'd like to see Boufal or Djenepo take them instead. A midfield of Romeu, Højbjerg, Djenepo & Boufal would be best, with Redmond and Adams/Ings in front of them.

We need one of our strikers to start scoring regularly. Hopefully, Adams and/or Ings will start doing that at Fratton Park on Tuesday. And, of course, Obafemi is another option.

10


Jellybaby added 09:33 - Sep 21

A big fan of Ralph, but this defeat is squarely laid at his door. If we had started with second half team and formation I feel we would have won.
10


vanmans added 10:04 - Sep 21

Why did he not start Bertrand when he came on we looked a lot better. Why does he keep playing Ward-Prowse he offers us nothing most of his passes are backwards. Last night if he was half a decent player he should have had a hat trick. He must be dropped.
11


saintjf added 10:12 - Sep 21

That was a most worrying performance. Credit to Bournemouth though. We might now treat them with a bit more respect rather than pretend they don't exist. VAR kept us in the game! Can't say that I ever thought we would score even in the second half. Bournemouth always looking the more threatening. They are not mistake free but they do have a defence that will throw everything at last ditch defending and we do not. A bit of a shock if I am honest.
4


claus5 added 11:51 - Sep 21

I agree with most of what has been wirtten about last night, truly awfull displays by JWP, Danso and Vestagaard. BUT when is the myth of PEH going to be discussed, waving your arms about at the crowd and running a lot do not make you a great midfielder. He is being carried week after week by Romeu (only seen home games so far). Last night and against Utd he tackled like a little girl, his passing is pathetic and he is so slow in thought and deed. A bloke near me said at half time, Stephen Davis could play 5 passes in the time PEH takes to make his mind up what to do. And when he does it is invariably side ways or backwards. I thnk one of PEH or JWP has to be left out. Sorry to be negative but i fear this will happen to us time after time again to us this season.
11


SaintBrock added 12:31 - Sep 21

Very strange outcome. Shows clearly that possession means nothing. Hutch was clueless from beginning g to end poor team selection, too many players out of position and we end up 2-0 down at HT. No way back from there with ten men back and packed together like sardines. We huffed and we puffed but we could not blow their house down.

HOWE 5 v HUTCH 0

Lovely tribute to Leon Crouch.
5


I_would added 17:34 - Sep 21

JWP had 4 games in a purple patch in the last six years. The guy is negative, dire and boring. Unfortunately Hojbjerg, Romeu and Vestergaard have caught the same 'shit' virus.

RH is either, totally incompetent or wants Saints to pay his contract off early. The sooner he goes the better.
2


SanMarco added 18:37 - Sep 21

This one is down to Ralph. Once we had a LB playing LB and a RB playing RB we looked a reasonable side. He got away with it at Sheffield but this should be his reality check. The line between unpredictable/maverick and just plain stupid is a thin one. He may be the 'Clough of Albania' or whatever it is but next week just some common sense please Ralph.

JWP was poor and Hojberg not great. Romeau our best player. Theirs was more of a pen than ours was...
6


ROTTWEILERS added 19:28 - Sep 21

We missed Gnanduillet. There I said it.

That was very poor, made worse by us missing the equaliser to beat the traffic

I don't have a clue what Larry's gameplan was but it's not his fault the players weren't doing the basics right. We looked disjointed and toothless.

Not big or clever but we did chuckle with the chants of "throw it back" directed to the Accy keeper after the bottles were lobbed. He saw the funny side too.

I think I'm already sick of awaydays at Accy and Rochdale.

UTP
0


the_saint added 09:44 - Sep 22

I thought it was a masterstroke from the hoff take the pressures off our centre backs by making our full backs look crap
2


sidsaint added 08:40 - Sep 25

Class will out.
1


NewburySaint added 09:10 - Sep 25

Well that was embarrassing for the blue few, I almost felt sorry for them-and we didn’t even play that well!
2


AirFlorida added 09:41 - Sep 25

Ref did ok and let it flow as a derby.. Not even too bothered he missed the elbow on yosh as it fired him up after. Great finishing from Ings but we still press the panic button when high balls go into the box! Coys!
1


aceofthebase added 11:11 - Sep 25

What a bunch of blue ferocious untamed animals on the terraces.
3


aceofthebase added 11:17 - Sep 25

I felt sorry for Adams who just does not get in the right place to score. I can't see him breaking his duck unless he is fortunate enough to have a goal handed to him on a plate. In a very competitive premier league we can only carry him for so long and that must be soon.
3


Jellybaby added 14:21 - Sep 25

The aggression shown by the Pompey fans at every Saints throw in was embarrassing.

Che Adams was the only down side to this performance, looks like he needs a break.

Very professional performance from Saints. COYR
2


I_would added 17:05 - Sep 28

Foregone conclusion with the three slow amigos in midfield. RH needs to go as his starting 11 was wrong , his subs were wrong and subs timing was wrong. One whole hour against 10 men and nothing to show for it. Will we get a point before December?.
3


Boris1977 added 17:22 - Sep 28

Umm, umm. Aah, what, errmmmmm. Hope there are three worse teams in the league come May. Not inspiring, same problems and in a miserable part of the word.
2


NewburySaint added 17:23 - Sep 28

Shocking 2nd half from Saints-our game intelligence during this period was awful-& I can only remember 1 good bit in a cross Boufal put in but none of our players had the nous to gamble on it. Did anybody at the game really think we were going to score again?

I don’t care who we were playing, when you play against a team that has 1 less player than you for over an hour you shouldn’t be losing the game, although we shouldn’t have been 1 down anyway with Gunn diving out of the way of a shot that he could’ve caught.

Honourable mentions though to both Boufal & Bednerak......

6


smartjoe added 17:35 - Sep 28

I did not go to the match so I can not give my ratings or a report.......but I do wish to suggest a addition to this page.
We rate players, the referee, the match itself but what we should be given is an opportunity to rate the manager.
Over the last few EPL games our manager has failed in both tactics and team selection.
I would like to get the message across to him that his performance, especially regarding our defence,
has been below par.
5


1885_SFC added 17:44 - Sep 28

F@ck you Saints. You've ruined my weekend... again. We were never going to score again if the game went on until midnight. No one had any idea of how to put the ball in the net. Ralph's strange line-up/formation change before KO is a bigger mystery than Area 51 and who shot John F. Kennedy.combined!

Boufal was our only shining light today. Back to the drawing board Ralph.
4


I_would added 17:46 - Sep 28

Ok then Manager Rating - 0
1


the_saint added 17:53 - Sep 28

Yes think the hoff has lost the plot since his right hand man left.used his subs against 10 man spurs so so wrong.
7


andrew added 18:01 - Sep 28

What f’kin nut jobs are giving Fulton less than 6?
0


codge added 18:10 - Sep 28

Where was JWP on both of there goals in Neverland as usual way away from any marking.Strange game we could of come away with the points but lack of cover again leaves us without anything. I did think Bednarec had a good game and Yoshida was ok.Thought subs were way to late and a little puzzling at that stage of the game.We did show some fight but against 10 men should of got more from this game.
8


10i added 19:24 - Sep 28

Gunn shocking for the first goal, JWP continued his poor form. Hardly anyone stood out.
RH taking off Ings when we chase that goal makes you wonder, as he for sure is the best bet to score ... Even more so the change of the whole system just because of the injury to Cedric. His decisions seem to become poorer and poorer...
10


Badlands added 20:49 - Sep 28

Has Mr Cooper runout of ideas?
Our midfield of Byers, Fulton and Grimes with Celina and Roberts close baking were dire. Flat footed, failed to read the game or anticipate passes, didn't move. Joke of a midfield.
0


SanMarco added 22:48 - Sep 28

Ralph is discovering that if you do strange things they really do have to work. I know the guy sees himself as an eccentric but if a RB is injured (or whatever) in warm-up and you have a guy you played as RB for most of last season on the bench there is one simple and obvious thing to do. Simple and obvious is often right Ralph - that's why it is simple and obvious.

Having said that I am surprised at the depth of the despair and criticism after this. We were alright for most of the game but long-standing problems over careless goals and lack of cutting-edge up front cost us again. We are still a much better side than the mess Ralph inherited from Hughes. Playing a back four is key for me - why play 3 CBs when we can't even find 2 that are good enough? We won't challenge for the top 6 this season but I am confident we can get close to the top ten.
5


SanMarco added 22:48 - Sep 28

Oh, and yes - I reckon JWP needs a 'rest'...
7


Geoff78 added 23:26 - Sep 28

Oh dear... So many things not right:
- Rs off the pace from the start and never looked comfortable
- Failed to press WBA's defence or midfield
- Too many sloppy passes, giving ball away needlessly
- Lumley's distribution even worse than usual, but partially redeemed himself with some smart saves
- Barbet cannot play with just 1 central defender alongside; 2 penalties + 1 red card the evidence
- Unusually Warburton was slow to make changes when it was clear we were being overrun and needed more beef in midfield, Chair + Eze just not robust enough against this class of opposition
- Far too often Rs lost out in 1:1 challenges; WBA pressed + tackled much better; the team need intensive sessions on how to tackle/resist challenges
- Ref was awful - 21:10 foul count bizarre in a clean game; Rs got almost nothing from him, although when we did win a decision we usually wasted it
- Albion were good without being over-impressive; look certs for promotion
- Perhaps this defeat is helpful to bring us back down to earth after that winning run - but there's still a lot of potential in this team
- Best players today were Leistner + Chair
1


allsaint54 added 23:31 - Sep 28

Build up play all too slow & ponderous. Don't create any real chances even against 10 men. Midfield of JWP, Romeo & Hojbjerg just doesn't work. What has JWP got to do to be dropped.
8


Saintsforeverj added 00:08 - Sep 29

Spurs were there for the taking with 10 men. Instead of getting the ball in the box with good crosses and penetrating runs, we kept passing sideways and backwards.
6


aceofthebase added 08:28 - Sep 29

Credit to Spurs for parking the bus and denying us any goals. We did have the chances and LLoris made up for his showbiz error with several quality saves. We didn't get enough crosses in but we didn't have the numbers or height in the box anyway and I never thoughta simple cross would be the answer. Our hopes rested on ball skills and penetrating passes, sadly lacking from both Hojbjerg and JWP.
What has Valery done wrong in the head of RH that he was not selected in the first place and not immediately selected when Cedric went lame. A change of system in the last few minutes prior to kick-off is quite incredible.
Their first goal was as a result of not having a proper right back, Hojbjerg leaving the eventual goalscorer unmarked and slow reactions from Gunn. The second, well it was Kane again!
The subs were strange, Ings removal baffling and did Obafami or Long have a touch of the ball?
I don't like over rection but if we dropped Gunn, JWP, Hojbjerg, Vestergaard I would not be disappointed.
Boufal and Redmond are trying hard, we just need others to join in. We will beat other sides, we are playing like a mid table team not a relegation candidate.
6


aceofthebase added 08:31 - Sep 29

Credit to Spurs for parking the bus and denying us any goals. We did have the chances and LLoris made up for his showbiz error with several quality saves. We didn't get enough crosses in but we didn't have the numbers or height in the box anyway and I never thoughta simple cross would be the answer. Our hopes rested on ball skills and penetrating passes, sadly lacking from both Hojbjerg and JWP.
What has Valery done wrong in the head of RH that he was not selected in the first place and not immediately selected when Cedric went lame. A change of system in the last few minutes prior to kick-off is quite incredible.
Their first goal was as a result of not having a proper right back, Hojbjerg leaving the eventual goalscorer unmarked and slow reactions from Gunn. The second, well it was Kane again!
The subs were strange, Ings removal baffling and did Obafami or Long have a touch of the ball?
I don't like over rection but if we dropped Gunn, JWP, Hojbjerg, Vestergaard I would not be disappointed.
Boufal and Redmond are trying hard, we just need others to join in. We will beat other sides, we are playing like a mid table team not a relegation candidate.
2


saintjf added 11:10 - Sep 29

Just caught up with MOD. Spurs are certainly not in form and had a man sent off as well as gifting us a goal. We still got nothing from the game and did not appear likely to score. No need to panic but we have not improved as much as I hoped we might have this season.
3


SaintBrock added 12:50 - Sep 29

If we don't start scoring from open play soon we will be in trouble. It looks like we are going to have to outscore the opposition to win matches as it seem impossible for us to stop making individual defensive errors and giving away silly goals.

Too much of our play and running yesterday was horizontal and not vertical especially in transition from the middle to the attacking third. Spurs were so packed in defence that we couldn't find space between the lines so we needed more forward penetrating balls and fast runners.

Of course as always we don't seem to be flexible enough or bright enough to work that out during play. Maybe Hutch is so rigid in his control of his players that they are now scared to express themselves freely by doing something that has not already been proscribed as our tactics for the day.
3


BrusselsHoop added 14:45 - Sep 29

Teams more or less cancelled each other out in the first half although we often lost/gave away the ball in dangerous positions. Anyway neither goalkeeper had to make a save although West Brom had a couple of dangerous corners which we dealt with ok.
Second half we had a good first couple of minutes but then the midfield just melted away and West Brom looked more and more dangerous.
From where I was sitting bot goals looked saveable!
To be fair Lumley did make a couple of decent saves but I thought he looked very nervy.
1


Lazarus added 15:42 - Sep 29

Totally agree with Geoff78, every point tallies with my impression of the game. Warburton reckons we showed too much respect; I felt we didn't show enough and believed the hype following our recent run of good results. Too much tippy-tappy, fancy-Dan football when we should have been grafting like Albion, who were not only skilful but played like they really wanted it.
0


vanmans added 16:25 - Sep 29

Time to Drop Prowse. Play 4 at the back and learn to pass the ball Forward.
5


KriSaint added 18:45 - Sep 29

I find it a mystery that Valery couldn´t even get in the team, when Cedric broke down in the warm up, and that Cedric´s injury resulted in Ralph changing the system (???), using JWP as right back and big Vestergaard coming in in a back three.
Why did he not just put Valery in as substitute for Cedric and keep the planned system with 4 in the back, 3 midfielders and 3 up front (Ings, Redmond and Boufal).!

We conceded 2 goals and only managed to score 1 despite playing against 10 men - and therefore dominating - for 2 thirds of the match, when brainless Aurier got sent off in the first half for 2 yellow cards.

Yoshida didn´t put a foot wrong and was by far our man of the match. He has never been better in his career, and I expect Ralph to ackknowledge that and keep him in the side.
Bertrand didn´t look match fit.
We need injured Djenepo back in our team, and I´d like Alex McCarthy - when fit again - as our preferred keeper.
4


MelakaRanger added 10:03 - Oct 3

Every game we give away one or two golden gifts of a goal. Our defence unit is weak. Our upcoming opponents must know with 100% certainty that the will be able to 'score' at least one goal.

On that basis they can set up to defend against us scoring two.

I also thought that although we had 70%+ posession we gave awya the ball far too often and far too easily.

This is still a team in transition and I will still take mid table this year with a view to progressive improvement and (attacking loan players staying) pushing on with a very real promotion challenge next season
0


Pozuelo13 added 21:26 - Oct 5

After a very early goal, we lost the plot. Once again the majority of our players were second best to a team that had not won any league game at all. On the performance of the last 2 home games, Fulton, Celina, Roberts and Grimes really need to do extra training. Celina was rubbish again, anything to do with the fact that he will be in the Kosovo team next week
and didn't want to get injured ?
The same goes for Roberts whose passing today was atrocious !
Woodman's play and distribution was very poor too.
0


I_would added 19:33 - Oct 6

RH out!
-1


Saintsforeverj added 19:40 - Oct 6

Terrible performance. We just let Chelsea tear us apart. At least show some fight, even if we lose. Just dreadful.
10


DPeps added 19:59 - Oct 6

Naff all improvement on last year. Same issues: calamatous defence, pedestrian midfield, toothless attack, and now Ralph looks broken. The most disappointing thing is that I actually had some hopes for this season. Oh hum
10


CommonSaint added 20:12 - Oct 6

Abysmal performance from Saints, no passion, no fight, total let down of the Fans.
8


claus5 added 20:19 - Oct 6

PEH/JWP, you can't polish a turd! As others have said, dreadfull defence, toothless attack and as for the midfield? If there are two players slower in thought and deed than PEH and JWP then i've not yet seen them. Horrible as it is to admit, we are now no better than under Hughes. Not sure where we go from here, but if i were not a season tickrt holder i would not fork out £40 for the next game.


11


saintjf added 20:21 - Oct 6

I wish I could say I was surprised. I think we all were expecting a kicking. We certainly got that. Chelsea are far from the finished article but they are a heck of a lot better than us.
6


allsaint54 added 20:22 - Oct 6

Dreadful. No fight, no pace, no creativity, no ideas. Defence is like a sandcastle, collapses against any incoming tide.
As for JWP, what on earth does he offer. Don't mention set pieces. How many goals do we score from. Why on earth is he undroppable. No wonder nobody has tried to buy him in the last 2 years. Understood Eastleigh wanted him on loan but realised all they had much better midfielders.
Adams looks like a duck out of water at the moment, he appears to be going backwards. Redmond was clueless.
Hojbjerg offers nothing.
Ings works his socks off with no service. Even Long looked to have given up.
Going to drown my sorrows ahead of a long long season.
9


codge added 20:41 - Oct 6

Firstly Gunn should be replaced next game along with JWP and the midfield is slower than molasses, we offer no threat from there at all.Valery ok going forward but dreadful getting back into defense as the 3rd goal showed he was more in the middle and out of position so many times. No one came away from this game except lngs with any credit even RH has lost the plot, subs on way to late it looked like the last 3 yrs all over again.
What JWP does to earn his place befuddles me maybe he has something on RH because he can play like crap every week but he still makes the lineup.Very dissatisfied again and it's becoming a habit again.
10


aceofthebase added 22:12 - Oct 6

RH ....1
0


NewburySaint added 22:59 - Oct 6

I gave JWP 1 because you cannot give 0 out of 10.....
6


forallthesaints added 23:11 - Oct 6

Oh dear! I don't think I've seen a poorer Saints performance since the capitulation at Anfield two years ago. I was worried to see Boufal on the bench as the midfield is hard-working but not creative. JWP and PEH were both very poor today giving the ball away so many times but also not being able to move it quickly. Romeu did okay but there were also no options and so the ball went backwards or square far too often. Teams like City, Chelsea, Spurs and Liverpool play out of defence well, using the keeper to pass back and forth, draw the forwards on to them and then take them out of the game with a clever pass upfield. We can't do it and always look nervy and like we're going to lose the ball - today we did, almost every time. And then we resort to hoofing it up the field and instantly losing possession as big centre backs tidy it up.
Today, Long played with his usual effort and speed and won a lot of headers but there was never anyone there to get hold of them.
Twice at 3-1, Gunn got the ball and with some swift movement two or three players could have been open but the whole team just sauntered out and he had no one in space to give it to. And throw-ins... For the last three or four seasons we seem to have become incapable of making anything out of a throw-in. How often do we see Bertrand or Valery/Cedric just standing there waiting for someone to give them something?
The real shame of it today was that for the first 10-15 minutes we were in their faces, rattling the defence and winning the ball more often than not and a good effort by Redmond (not such a good one from PEH - as soon as he lined himself up it was just a question of just how high it would go). Then JWP gave the ball away and they pop down and get the lucky first. It completely took any wind out of Saints' sails and from that minute the game was always lost.
It must be time for Armstrong to get a run of games and prove one way or another if he's up to it - and Boufal may be a luxury player but at least he tries things and his attitude this season has been exemplary.
Che Adams looks out of his depth and in the earlier games this season he seems to fall behind play and not be in the middle for a cross. I really hope he doesn't turn out to be another Charlie Austin.
Sorry for the waffle but needed to unload a bit.
Horrible game to watch while suffering a major hangover.
11


the_saint added 08:11 - Oct 7

Team v wolves
Mcarthy Cedric bednarek danso bertie
Romeu Armstrong slattery
Ings Redmond boufal

Jwp gunn and peh have been awful
Gunn cost us again leave it to the centre backs but on saying that maybe hes lost confidence in the defence
4


wibbersda added 09:53 - Oct 7

RH, the "Austrian Klopp"... the "Austrian Flop" more like. Devoid of ideas, weird selections, continually backing poor players (JWP, EH). Once again we are left with Season-long fight hoping that there are 3 worst teams.
3


sandywelsh added 13:08 - Oct 7

Its getting as bad as it was when Rupert Lowe was here. No top class players and to many young kids.
3


djtsaints123 added 21:12 - Oct 7

The only good news on Sunday was virgin media went off line losing the sky broadcast from about 55 mins in so missed woeful second half and fourth goal. What is seriously worrying Chelsea did not play well in first half but were deservedly 3 1 up. I bet Frank could not believe how bad defensively we were and even when Chelsea made serious defensive mistakes we didn't or couldn't take advantage. The reality is we have one defender, bednarek, and one midfielder romeo and one attacker ings , peh off form but the rest are not premiership players you can survive with one or two learning we have a big problem and maybe time in championship might help, but equally would we get back. the truth is six points came from very lucky away results not great play in next six matches I see between 1 and 4 points , the championship looks like not to be a choice.
1


I_would added 17:52 - Oct 19

Zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz
-1


bigrob68 added 18:05 - Oct 19

Ward Prowse, PEH, Gunn, all junk yet again.
6


codge added 18:36 - Oct 19

Was disappointed to see the same midfield thought there would be someone who actually knew how to shoot.Still cant see what JWP offers but we got a point that was plus.Was a better performance from the defense but still makes me nervous,thought Vestergaard had half descent game along with Yoshi and Bednarek and Ings took his chance well although should have had two.After the last two results this was a plus.
7


Badlands added 23:00 - Oct 22

A thoroughly entertaining game thanks to the quality of Brentford.
0


Pozuelo13 added 23:16 - Oct 22

So, very very predictable Swans. We have no plan B, let alone a Plan A. The scum will have a field day!
0


centrestandswan added 23:20 - Oct 22

We were crap
0


enfieldargh added 08:39 - Oct 23

I gave the ref 3,

1 point for starting the game
1 point for knowing ha;f time
1 point for ending it
0


Royboy48 added 14:45 - Oct 23

We were never really in control of the ball or the game.

Substituting Wells for Amos was a mistake imo as Reading defence was then comfortable and our extra midfielder didn’t seem to make any difference.

Last 30 minutes was all Reading, confident, aggressive, first to the ball. They just lacked a cutting edge up front. Ejaria was MoM. Scowen for me had a great game, consistently called upon to break up attacks and consistently did so

Both our goals were well worked; Hugill, Eze and Wells are lethal once we get into dangerous areas. Trouble is, there was not enough of it.

In the end I was happy to settle for the point.

Somehow we are now fourth!
0


Ali_Diarea added 07:56 - Oct 26

Should be a wake up call for the owners...
Doubt it though!
5


CommonSaint added 08:26 - Oct 26

Unfortunately you do not have a minus rating. If there was all saints players would be MINUS 10 but 1 is lowest I can score terrible performance team, Manager,coaches and the Owner should hang there heads in shame a disgrace to the red and white stripes something is drastically wrong within this club Championship and lower beckons
5


Phil_looks_sharp added 08:32 - Oct 26

I’m a grown man and I feel like crying over the gradual demise of our once great club. Unfortunately the Premier League has moved on and improved. We have NOT.
Not one of our players looked anywhere near Premier League standard. The gradual decline has happened in front of our very eyes
Major heads should roll over this - Saints don’t deserve their great support. I would say our darkest day as a club on the playing side.
7


davidargyll added 08:39 - Oct 26

I read that the owners are standing behind RH.
The fact is simply he cannot stay. The players are clearly not playing for him and the crowd leaving at half time last night including me speaks volumes. Hell will be so heavily jeered at at the next home game it will be impossible.
No matter what the Board say now it’s only a matter of time. The sooner he goes the better.
I reckon it’s 2 weeks max.
1


the_saint added 08:58 - Oct 26

Sacking hoff is not the answer but I dont know what is. fans in northam booing gunn but just look at what he has in front of him.it reminds me of the shooting practice goalkeepers do before the game
Sorry nick i know u dont like fans saying this but we are rotton to the core
4


dirk_doone added 10:24 - Oct 26

As we're talking about player ratings here, there were some shocking performances from several Saints players but I never want to see Vestergaard in a Saints shirt again (unfortunately we probably will).

He can't run, he can't jump but what was worst of all in this game, he hardly even tried to tackle or block. Watch him in the replays of the Leicester goals. He just gave up.
5


codge added 10:27 - Oct 26

Having supported Saints for over 65yrs to see a team quit was difficult to watch to say the least.I will excuse lngs and Gunn in this game but the rest of this sorry arsed bunch should never be allowed to wear the Saints shirt again. Even if Bertrand hadn't been sent of l believe it would of been probably the same outcome,completely gave up and gutless performance from a bunch of over paid prima donnars.We now have a manager who has lost the plot completely and a team who don't give a sh?te, were we go from here is anybody's guess but l fear it's not onwards and upwards.
5


underweststand added 10:39 - Oct 26

Totally exploited by a team that didn't mind getting their heads wet, and further highlighting the unsolved problems from last season. Ineffective defence, weak/ lightweight MF with no "muscle or bite " , and too many players being forced into formations that don't suit (whatever is)... their best position.
It's pointless to push JWP to wingback at every sub. change, he is not a defender and Redmond is only a shadow of his showing last season terrorising defences and scoring goals. Danny Ings is a lone striker.

Many fans can recite team line-ups from memorable games (even from decades ago), but those who played in last night's debacle will bear the shame of being mentioned in the same breath as.... the 0-9 game.
Sad is too mild a word to describe feelings today.
4


I_would added 11:07 - Oct 26

RH out!
2


aceofthebase added 11:58 - Oct 26

RH 0.0
0


Dewi1jack added 18:16 - Oct 27

Proud of the fight our lads showed today.
Strong as a team, certainly didn't let the thugs playing in blue scare them, giving as good as they were getting.
Very nervy last sort of 10 mins for me as I was expecting the jammy b'stards to be given another weak penalty or something stupid.
Truthfully a good, scrappy win.
Hopefully we can now kick on for another good run starting against Wigwam next week
0


enfieldargh added 08:58 - Oct 29

Ref you blind canute
0


Geoff78 added 10:34 - Oct 29

Poor, to say the least. If teams push up on our central defenders, close mark Eze (helped by playing him wide) and BOS (after a good first half he always got the ball facing the wrong way - and may also have had a knock) and get in behind Manning we never get going. If in turn we play at half speed and give the ball away more often than not we will we beaten by most teams that are aggressive on the ball and move it quickly. Brentwood much the better team.
0


Lazarus added 13:01 - Oct 29

The penalty was never a foul - really soft - and it changed the whole shape of the game. Rangers weren't great and didn't deserve to win, but were much better in the second half and on the front foot when the penalty was awarded. That said, the first and third Brentford goals were entirely down to appalling defending. We need to stop shipping goals (and giving away penalties - that's six we've conceded this season). Easier said than done, it seems!
0


I_would added 10:52 - Oct 30

Hasenhuttl should have gone after Leicester. He will go, he has to, but when it's too late. The board are all paralyzed with shock and fear like the players and fans. Relegation odds 2/1 now.
4


allsaint54 added 12:45 - Oct 30

Yet again JWP has the lowest rating, at least he's consistent, consistently rubbish
7


sandywelsh added 13:04 - Oct 30

Prowse has to be Dropped.
5


I_would added 13:27 - Oct 30

According to some people on this forum Prowsey is a useful productive asset. This is when EVERYONE else in the world knows he is absolutely useless.

Can't tackle, can't anticipate, can't sprint, can't dribble (apart from like a baby), can't jump, can't head the ball, passes backwards, doesn't feel comfortable in possession, can't intercept, can't mark, can't shoot, consistently misses free kicks.
Apart from that he's great!
4


I_would added 17:26 - Nov 2

Not able to enjoy a 'well earned ' loss like everyone else. Truth was we had a goal from a lucky spill and practically camped in our own end for 85+ mins. Was a bit better with Armstrong in MF instead of Hojbjerg and Djenepo looked great when he came on. Let's hope he's still fit for Everton.
5


codge added 18:23 - Nov 2

Got give credit were credits due much better but we still gave them there first goal 4 players looking and totally went asleep. Shame cause they defended so well up till then,story so many times in the past but have to admit they were so much better this time around.If can find away to go forward and we should against Everton then things should improve,JWP finally came up with a goal at last give him his due on that.This fighting spirit is what we need every week in and out then we can turn this season around.
2


KriSaint added 09:31 - Nov 4

Looks like Stephens has found his way back to the team, which is ok with me, judged on his performances vs Man. City. I´d like to see the combination of Stephens, Yoshida and Vestergaard as the back three = more experience. Give Bednarek some rest and let him develope from training sessions as Stephens has done.
We will score against Everton, I think. Let´s have a clean sheet and take 3 very important points on saturday..
-1


I_would added 17:21 - Nov 9

As soon as I saw Captain Prowsey, Romeu and Armstrong I knew that was it. Boufal and Djenepo should be first pick, the manager is clueless. We're doomed with RH. Prowse did absolutely f**k all to aid any form of attack and Romeu was just as bad.
8


petedoors1 added 17:35 - Nov 9

GO NOW RALPH AND TAKE PROWSE WITH YOU.
7


codge added 17:47 - Nov 9

Defense missing on both goals well there's a surprise, as if it's bad enough to have JWP on the pitch they make him captain.Dontwant to hear about how we will fight for the team there is none with them,who worked his ar$e of hard to find anyone again.We can't find our way out of our own area let alone find there's, when we did and scored most teams would of kicked on but not Saints oh know not us. They did give everyone a free scarfe I'm surprised they did not leave them all where they found them.Extremly dissatisfied again how long we have to suffer this crap week in week out l don't know but don't see an end soon RH what can you say l am so fed up having to watch week in week out with the same result.
8


dirk_doone added 18:12 - Nov 9

There are two players in the middle of our defence and midfield, Vestergaard & Ward-Prowse, who are an open invitation to the opposition to score goals and as long as Ralph keeps selecting them, that's exactly what opposition teams are going to keep on doing, even ones as bad as Everton.
9


davidargyll added 18:20 - Nov 9

Painful, embarrassing and one can only surmise from the game that WE ARE DOOMED.
Hassenrubbish HAS TO GO.
Now having lost 4 games in a row, if he doesn’t get sacked, how many games will we need to lose before he is does? 5? 6? 25?
What is so depressing is that so many players do the basics wrong. and that has to be the manager’s fault.
Whether or not he would be any good with a better team is a moot point but he simply isn’t any good for us in the black place we are right now.
We need someone to really kick arse. RH is not that man, period.
9


JimmyMeliaPhD added 18:21 - Nov 9

Another tactical catastrophe from RH, and a mostly unconfident and/or disinterested display from the players. I've seen some sad Saints teams over the years, but this one looks like they don't even cafe much. Pathetic management, arguably less effective than any of the justifiably maligned managers we've had since Koeman left..
9


Boris1977 added 18:30 - Nov 9

0 expense of balancing the books. In doing that the owner have now put the club in a precarious financial position with a very high likelihood of dropping down a league. What was/is their plan?

I'm glad of the international break as it will give me a deserved break from this completely embarrassing and avoidable situation.
5


Boris1977 added 18:39 - Nov 9

That's goodbye to the premiership. Everton, a struggling team, managed almost 30 shots on our goal. That speaks volumes about our midfield and defence. Also the policy of selling players without a replacement lined up meant our right back had to play out of position. The fans reap what the owners sow.

The owners have sacrificed ambition at the expense of balancing the books. In doing that the owner have now put the club in a precarious financial position with a very high likelihood of dropping down a league. What was/is their plan?

I'm glad of the international break as it will give me a deserved break from this completely embarrassing and avoidable situation.
7


davidargyll added 18:53 - Nov 9

Painful, embarrassing and one can only surmise from the game that WE ARE DOOMED.
Hassenrubbish HAS TO GO.
Now having lost 4 games in a row, if he doesn’t get sacked, how many games will we need to lose before he is does? 5? 6? 25?
What is so depressing is that so many players do the basics wrong. and that has to be the manager’s fault.
Whether or not he would be any good with a better team is a moot point but he simply isn’t any good for us in the black place we are right now.
We need someone to really kick arse. RH is not that man, period.
2


leighsaint added 18:57 - Nov 9

When he came RH WAS Supposed to be the Klopp of the alps I think he is the Clod of the alps. Since he lost Danny Rohl we have done nothing. We have 3 Goalkeeping coaches and no decent goalkeeper. I saw my first game in 1946 and this team must be the worst I’ve seen. In this time there have been some shockers but this lot are the worst by far. They are completely useless who in there right mind makes JWP Captain he shouldn’t even be in the team. A dead ball specialist who cannot find his own players from a corner and how many goals has he scored from his free kicks. A home team against a low team without a shot on or off target and no corners in the first half says it all
10


helpineedsomebody added 19:00 - Nov 9

now is the time for nick cortese to run the club
3


davidargyll added 19:00 - Nov 9

Painful, embarrassing and one can only surmise from the game that WE ARE DOOMED.
Hassenrubbish HAS TO GO.
Now having lost 4 games in a row, if he doesn’t get sacked, how many games will we need to lose before he is does? 5? 6? 25?
What is so depressing is that so many players do the basics wrong. and that has to be the manager’s fault.
Whether or not he would be any good with a better team is a moot point but he simply isn’t any good for us in the black place we are right now.
We need someone to really kick arse. RH is not that man, period.
1


smegma added 19:02 - Nov 9

What a poor game played out by two ordinary teams. Our defence were pathetic first half and only improved marginally second half. Couldn't wait for it to end if I'm honest.
0


Boris1977 added 19:07 - Nov 9

That's goodbye to the premiership. Everton, a struggling team, managed almost 30 shots on our goal. That speaks volumes about our midfield and defence. Also the policy of selling players without a replacement lined up meant our right back had to play out of position. The fans reap what the owners sow.

The owners have sacrificed ambition at the expense of balancing the books. In doing that the owner have now put the club in a precarious financial position with a very high likelihood of dropping down a league. What was/is their plan?

I'm glad of the international break as it will give me a deserved break from this completely embarrassing and avoidable situation.
1


MickB added 19:10 - Nov 9

No matter what the lineup, the defensive frailities remain. This points to a problem with the system. I don't think some of these players have the concentration necessary to play a system which punishes errors.
1


claus5 added 19:36 - Nov 9

Ralph looks and sounds like a broken man.I don't like to say this but i think for him and the club he has to go. Danny Ings, Ryan Bertrand and perhaps Moussa Djenpo are the only players worth keeping. I appreciate you simply can not get rid of the rest in one go, and a few of the rest could slot in with better players around them. We need a new keeper, at least one maybe two cb's, a creative midfielder and a target man. Don't think we will get them, so it will be a nervous next few months.
7


Ali_Diarea added 20:42 - Nov 9

Great manager and a solid squad Nick?!!

It’s gonna take more than an experienced centre back with leadership skills to sort this shite out!
6


KriSaint added 21:42 - Nov 9

Very ordinary game. We didn´t create much and allowed Everton more than 20 shots at goal. We could have gone 2-1 up if the referee had seen the penalty against Djenepo, but we don´t have any luck at the moment.
There is clearly some sort of gap or misunderstanding between our midfield and our attackers, and we create very little. Boufal was the only player who tried to create something.
8


petedoors1 added 22:56 - Nov 9

GO NOW RALPH AND TAKE PROWSE WITH YOU.
2


petedoors1 added 23:06 - Nov 9

GO NOW RALPH AND TAKE PROWSE WITH YOU. Ralph has completely lost the plot Prowse should not even be in the team but today he makes him captain. Boufal should be starting every game instead of Prowse. We should be playing 2 up front and why play 3 central defenders when the 5 we have are all crap surely it would be better to play just 2. Attack is the best form of defence.
6


AmericanSaint added 00:17 - Nov 10

Well that was a waste. I think I am going to be like some of the players and if we win, feel great if we lose, then oh well. Only 3 player son the pitch today that gave a crap. Ings, Djanepo and Boufal. Redmond was pissed that nobody was playing into the channels after all his runs and he gave up after the half. This 3-5-2 formation has to go out the window. It's simple, 4-4-2. McCarthy, Betrand (LB), Benderick and someone (CBs), Valery or Cedric (RB), Djanepo (RM), PEH and Armstrong (MID) and Boufal (LM), Ings and Redmond (F). Our midfield was horrible today and JWP needs to sit on the bench for a few since he doesnt know how to pass the ball forward. That is all for now.........
8


allsaint54 added 01:38 - Nov 10

Ralph has now lost the plot totally. Not only does he not drop JWP but he makes him captain, it's a f------- joke.
The first half was nothing short of diabolical. Everton are a poor side but looked in a different class to us. Time to get relegated and clear the dross of players out of the club. Can't pass, can't tackle, can't mark in the box, the list just goes on. Ralph & all the so said coaches have to go en masses.
7


the_saint added 08:45 - Nov 10

Can I get a refund on my season ticket as I feel I've been miss sold it
I'm sure they were selling it based on entertainment.
So if there is a solicitor wanting to take this ppi (piss poor individuals) on us tormented saints would be very greatful.
Motd said it all we lack quality no sh#t einstein.


3


sandywelsh added 09:42 - Nov 10

Utter Shambles. These so called players don't have the basic skills needed to play football. How can these same players be on such high salaries? Southampton Payroll by Spotrac. https://www.spotrac.com/epl/southampton-f.c/payroll/
3


Geoff78 added 10:43 - Nov 10

Pretty poor! There were a few spells when we put together some decent moves, but we gave the ball away a huge number of times when not under any pressure. Hall's distribution was especially poor and I wondered if he wasn't completely fit. Some reports talked of Randolph making a string of good saves, but I couldn't see this. There were a couple of shots straight at him, but not much to make him break sweat. We probably shaded the game on class but 'Boro had more energy even though they were poor as well.
1


LoisDeem added 16:28 - Nov 11

Still making the same mistakes, who else plays THREE static central defenders?

Try something else, at least we've had relative success with only two of these daleks lining up-our record victory -and better results with Danso as one of the three. It is never enough wishing for one of the musketeers to have a good game, he'll still tread on the toes or bump into of one of the others, as the other team continue to run into the void left by the other two.
Start with two, and learn to make it do!
I'm beginning to think this man is taking the bodily fluids as he changes every far king permutation except the central three.
1


codge added 17:33 - Nov 23

Oh what could of been,if only we could of got the third we definitely had the chances.lads did well but was puzzled by the starting eleven but it worked l guess, thought we put in a good shift could of gone the other way but a point was probably most would of taken at the start.I thought Armstrong made a difference and overall much improved team effort.So in the end disappointed but gives us a game to build on.
8


the_saint added 17:34 - Nov 23

Gutted should have got all 3 points there.
Defence still all over the place really need a leader organiser back there in january but well done boys you actually tried this time around.
And gutted because think you deserved the win
6


the_saint added 17:37 - Nov 23

Gutted should have got all 3 points there.
Defence still all over the place really need a leader organiser back there in january but well done boys you actually tried this time around.
And gutted because think you deserved the win
1


janecook added 18:23 - Nov 23

7 minutes extra time a joke. Prowse was the weak link again today cant even score from the penalty spot and he is supposed to be our dead ball expert!!!!!!!
4


I_would added 19:14 - Nov 23

Be careful talking in any negative way about the boy as he has a very large extended family, from the Portsmouth area (skates), and they all seem to frequent this site.
4


Flashberryjack added 20:10 - Nov 23

Worst game I've seen at the Liberty, and i've seen some shyte down there, players ought to be ashamed.
Grimes was f*cking awful.
-1


mattthelegend added 20:40 - Nov 23

Gutted to have come away with a point can’t believe Djenepo missed after Boufal’s amazing run. Plenty of positives to be taken though much improved effort, created numerous good chances, thought Stephens, Bednarek Armstrong, McCarthy, Ings and when Boufal was on all had good games. Hojbjerg and Soares and to a lesser degree JWP were liabilities. Play like that in our next few games and we may have a chance, only draw back will be playing at home with our ultra negative home support. If only we could back the team like we do away🙏😇
5


KriSaint added 00:23 - Nov 24

Gutted that we didn´t win but overall very satisfied with the shift we put in.
3


Geoff78 added 18:24 - Nov 28

Is it really too much to expect experienced defenders to communicate with each other and deal with routine corners? Obviously it is, but what are the coaching staff doing? Four penalties and three reds (I think) so far this season is exceptional. And from where I sat it looked a nailed on red.

I know we had a good spell with 10 men - better than the first half with 11, and better balanced with 4 in defence and 4 in midfield until we imploded - but if we hadn't already given away a goal and a red card we wouldn't have had to chase the game and leave so many gaps.
0


codge added 21:05 - Nov 30

If your looking for any positives other than we won there was not much to get excited about, we were dire until we equlised.We looked awful with JWP doing his usual sideways and backward passes and Redmond passing to everyone except our team.Still we won even though it looked very unlikely as we were so disjointed for so long,and when Stephens gifted the first goal to Watford l thought here we go again but we pulled this one out some how.
Going to have to play a lot better against Norwich if we want 3 points again, just wish we could be more consistent but this is our Saints never a dull moment or maybe that's not the right saying.
6


aceofthebase added 21:25 - Nov 30

Cedric was so poor and should not have been in the starting eleven. This was such a disappointing first half, very nervous touches and easily robbed of the ball. We were deservedly one down at half time and looked so poor in midfield. JWP got the bird from the crowd for his negative play but actually most of the team were more happy to go back than forwards. We actually looked like we were going to give a goal away whilst retreating.
Subs were desperately needed. Valery tho' far from perfect is streets ahead of Cedric and we not only looked better in defence we also had him to assist in attacks. Boufal may be a good sub player but we do need him on the pitch earlier, he makes things happen. How did Long not score?
JWP is an enigma, for most of the game he made me angry with his non-productive performance and I wanted him subbed, however, he scored a wonderful winning goal and it's goals that win matches. I guess he will be on the team sheet for the next match.
Please pinch me, did we really get three points with a home win?
0


vanmans added 21:39 - Nov 30

If I was manager I would have taken Prowse off at half time as his was shite. All he done all game was score from a free kick.
1


claus5 added 21:46 - Nov 30

Cedric, as people have already said was deadfull. but so were most of the rest. I thought Stephens and PEH were equally as poor. Maybe our captain could be employed as a cheer leader as it appears the only job he is cabable of? At least we won. and if we can do it again on wednesday then we will not be adrift and can look forwards with more hope.
1


SaintPaulVW added 21:49 - Nov 30

Usual. We start off well. Concede at the first half decent chance. Fall apart. Come back together. Huff and puff and squander chances galore. Play well in the second half but get nothing......but crucially THIS time we pulled through. Hopefully we can stumble through the next few games in a similar style and get a few more wins. COYS!
3


allsaint54 added 23:01 - Nov 30

We scraped a win & that's all that matters. But so many negatives about the performance. Redmond lucky to last 53 minutes, utter rubbish. Obafemi unfortunately looked out of his depth, his time will come. JWP was dire, but his free kick won the game, so what can you say. Stephens was a liability. zings worked his socks off & deserved his goal. Dlenepo came into the game once Redmond was eventually subbed & he was given more of the ball. A win but still so much to improve on.



5


WestSussexSaint added 08:46 - Dec 1

Thank god for Danny Ings. The only player for large parts of the game who looked like he wanted to be on the pitch and actually play positive football. Even the so called high press Ralph plays was poor apart from Ings. Without him we would be truly sunk this season.

Of the rest some good saves from McCarthy, no blame for the goal as woefully exposed by the defence. If JWP could kick a moving ball as well as a stationary one he might get some sympathy but his performance aside of the free kick was dreadful. Sadly he wasn’t alone!
2


mattthelegend added 09:10 - Dec 1

Can’t believe no one has mentioned Boufal, them man has been a revelation in the last few games and is now living up to his reputation, he is exciting, gets the crowd going as much as it can St Mary’s and looks like something will happen every time he is on the ball. Danny Ings for captain the man cares about SFC 😇. Wrong game for Obafemi no room for him to run into as Watford sat too deep. What has Adams done wrong??? Still 3 points and finally got that home win so hopefully lost that monkey.
8


underweststand added 11:30 - Dec 1

IMPORTANT NOTE to Ralph Hasenhuttl...when we attack we CAN score goals ...and even gain valuable points.
When we defend we can't score goals and it only ends in tears.

Hopeful advice for the rest of the season.
2


Yorkshire_Dale added 17:13 - Dec 1

Surely there should be a Match Rating of zero!

I've just witnessed it!.........Wall to wall rubbish!
1


Jellybaby added 17:14 - Dec 1

Ward Prowse is becoming a complete enigma, a sublime free kick does not mask a terrible first half from him and yet even in that his cheeky flick was the closest we came to scoring. He is one of only two sources of goals. Do we just have to take the bad with the good?

We have to do full on attack and hope to outscore teams until we get new defenders in. Stephens and Cedric both had largely poor games. Our attack however is the best it has been for a few years. Boufal and Long made a difference when they came on and we focused on attack.

I would make Ings captain as Hojbjerg was again one of our worse players and Ings was again one of our best and gives everything.

This result gives a little hope.....
2


Jellybaby added 17:27 - Dec 1

Ward Prowse is becoming a complete enigma, a sublime free kick does not mask a terrible first half from him and yet even in that his cheeky flick was the closest we came to scoring. He is one of only two sources of goals. Do we just have to take the bad with the good?

We have to do full on attack and hope to outscore teams until we get new defenders in. Stephens and Cedric both had largely poor games. Our attack however is the best it has been for a few years. Boufal and Long made a difference when they came on and we focused on attack.

I would make Ings captain as Hojbjerg was again one of our worse players and Ings was again one of our best and gives everything.

This result gives a little hope.....
0


francisbowles added 18:12 - Dec 1

Looked very nervous early on but grew in confidence as the game went on and well deserved at least a point.

Something to build on.
0


KriSaint added 13:51 - Dec 5

Congratulations to players, staff and fans. Ralph kept the 4-2-2-2 shape and we looked dangerousn and focused with a good game plan and could actually easily have been 4-0 up when Norwich suddenly scored to 2-1 with 30 minutes left. It then started to become a bit nervy, but we fought for the points - made some intelligent substitutions - and ultimately took the 3 points. Norwich could easily have equalised in injury time to be honest - which would have been a disaster - but fortunately Byrant missed his double chance, the first chance blocked by Yoshida, the second one he missed target. Ings continued his great goal scoring form and after 7 points from 3 games our season has more or less re-started - with top 10 suddenly very much within reaching distance. Let´s hope we keep it going and avoid injuries, and then who knows what we can achieve. I am glad the club stood by Ralph during the storm and it´s good to hear him express thankfulness for the club having kept trust in him and for the crisis learning experience which he has taken something good from. Good to see Bertrand score and now we need other players to start scoring some goals - not least Che Adams - good to see him get some playing time yesterday, and he did well with his energetic display.
All in all a great home win, and with 2 out of 2 we can hope that, once again, St. Mary´s will be a difficult place to come for our opponents. Now, let´s do all we can to beat Newcastle away on saturday. COYS! <3
2


SaintPaulVW added 14:00 - Dec 5

Enjoyed watching it. Just wish I didn't have to watch the last 20 minutes through my clenched fingers. We never make it easy for ourselves.

Just hope a bit of confidence is starting to embed itself.

COYS!
5


LoisDeem added 15:44 - Dec 5

The other team gets a goal and I swear six of our players disappear.
Whilst Romeu and Yoshida were good replacements at the time, it is the managers job to tell them ALL to focus their sights and efforts upfield.
3


Geoff78 added 10:35 - Dec 8

Well, it's obvious that Warburton had been reading my tweets and started coaching the defence! Or maybe not, but that must be the best performance by our defenders for a long time. Three cheers for Lumley, Hall & Leistner, with Hall the stand-out for one superb tackle in his penalty area. But what impressed me early on was Kane's terrier-like challenges. He's looked good going forward in previous matches (ignoring WBA) but he was a proper right back here. Not quite the death of playing out from the back, but at last wiseing up to when the boot into touch or downfield is the safest option.

In spite of another great game from Eze and his two goals the Man of the Match for me was Bright Osayi-Samuel. His positioning was excellent, he worked hard to close down his opposite number and scared the wits out of the PNE defence when he ran at them. Sensible, strong, if more defensive game from Rs.
1


stneotsbloke added 13:38 - Dec 8

Justified praise for Eze but BOS was superb, surely his best game for us. Also a word of praise for BFG just doing what he's good at, nothing fancy, no 50 yard cross field passes to Manning, just big brave and strong.
Yes, Lumley has had a few slightly dodgy games but he put in a strong, confident and safe performance and that save was simply superb and will do wonders for his confidence.
A well deserved win and a top class all round team performance.
Great to come away from the ground with a smile on my face.
1


codge added 16:12 - Dec 8

This should of been 3pts gained but instead 3pts lost,a very good effort but in the end nothing to show for all the good work.
0


smegma added 02:45 - Dec 9

Eze, BOS and Lumley rightly got praise following the game but I'd like also big up both Manning and Kane, both of whom came in for some stick on here after the Forest game. Yes both didn't perform as well as they could do versus Forest , they know it, we know it. But they got on with their game against PNE and I thought were solid in everything they did, both defending and bombing forward assisting the midfield/forward line. Following the Forest game I wrote on the forum that with Kane there was a good player in there somewhere, we just need to find it. We found it big time on Saturday. And as Clive wrote in his programme column there is a current trend development online 'to be as over the top provocative and mean as you can'.
0


vanmans added 11:24 - Dec 15

We are Doomed to go down. It shows how bad we are when a team like Burnley beat Newcastle and we cant beat West Ham a team down near us in the table. Var tried to help us again yesterday but we could not take advantage of it. We have the worst defence in the Premier League and the midfield is not much better. From the kick off yesterday there was only going to be one winner they wanted it more.
6


claus5 added 11:48 - Dec 15

Message to our skipper, please,please ,please DO NOT sign a new contract. This is the only time in my 45 years of watching the team that i am truly embarresed to attend. Each half time we now discuss not who's playing well but who is the worst player this week. Difficult to know where to start with yesterdays game, Stephens and Bednerak were too scared of Antonio to even jump with him. PEH and JWP simply can't pass or run or tackle. Ings,Romeau and the keeper are the only ones who deserve to be paid for that sh*t show!People seem to only blame the owner, but surely coaching must come into the equation? We now must not lose at Villa or i fear the manager would have to go, obviosly we can't bring in 10 new players in the window, but 2 or 3 experienced players are desperately needed. If we don't lose touch we'll still have a decent chance of staying up, but if not i fear this lot simply do not have the character to redeem the situation.
7


codge added 12:10 - Dec 15

Please tell me when did Hojbjerg have a good game,certainly wasn't yesterday the worst yet. He should not be wearing the captains arm band the only person who deserves it is Ings.Another pathetic performance,how many times must we have to endure this awful gutless display at home.
We will truly be doomed unless we get our act together but l have been thinking that for 3yrs now and l fear we don't have the ability in this team to turn things around.
6


codge added 12:10 - Dec 15

Please tell me when did Hojbjerg have a good game,certainly wasn't yesterday the worst yet. He should not be wearing the captains arm band the only person who deserves it is Ings.Another pathetic performance,how many times must we have to endure this awful gutless display at home.
We will truly be doomed unless we get our act together but l have been thinking that for 3yrs now and l fear we don't have the ability in this team to turn things around.
1


I_would added 13:43 - Dec 15

Nothing I say could be scathing enough individually or collectively.
1


Burlers added 16:21 - Dec 18

Generous on Hojbjerg how`s he the captain?
0


codge added 17:35 - Dec 21

Much needed win well earned,why we can't play like this at home is befuddling.I thought the addition of Armstrong in the staring team was a great choice, l even gave Stephens 7 out 10 for a much stronger and well played game.overall much improved now if we can just keep it up.
3


the_saint added 18:30 - Dec 21

Great performance from the boys, trouble at home is fans get on their backs and the players are then terrified of making a mistake. Against palace thets all get behind the team and show them how great us saints fans are coyr.
I can now enjoy my Christmas dinner
4


leighsaint added 18:36 - Dec 21

Defence had a better game but I think Villa are worse than us and that’s saying something. Why he took Armstrong off who was one of our 2 top players beggars belief, Obafemi is a headless chicken did he produce anything I can’t recall. Once again
Adams comes on far to late to have an impact. It was a better performance from Saints more energy and 3 goals but still not convinced.
6


KriSaint added 20:33 - Dec 21

Very happy with the 3 points.
Congrats to all my fellow fans, the travelling fans, the players, Ralph, his staph.

I have been waiting for such a performance for A LONG time. Well done. We could have won 6-1! (again)

I´m very happy that we had Stuart Armstrong back today and special congrats´ to Stephens being brilliant today - scoring and making only 1 minor mistake throughout the whole match today which had absolutely no consequences. Very good performance from Ings too. Thanks Danny Kings!
And finally - a special thanks to McCarthy for making an important safe at 0-0.
1


KriSaint added 01:11 - Dec 22

p.s.: We have to keep the 4-4-2 for now , and as long as Shane Long has his pace and engine and attitude he deserves to keep his place. It is of such importance to have two strikers with the mess we are in, and with Longs presence he seems to take some pressure off of our midfielders AND Danny Ings because he does well in build up play and - of course - not least airial duels, not only offensively with flick ons to Redders and Ingsy but ALSO when we defend dead balls. And Stuey Armstrong is much, much, much better defensively than Djenepo, which we really need, and he has good attacking skills in his game too from midfield that we badly need when he is not playing. He makes very intelligent deep runs that JWP and PEH don´t.
We might FINALLY have found our strongest starting 11. Let´s keep it for now but not forget the probable need for rotation in the festive periode with many games - to avoid exhaustion and injuries.
I wasn´t too impressed by middleweight boxer Obafemi when he came on if I´m honest but let´s not forget that he is only 19.
Cedric today was a less liability than normally, and I thank him for that and wish him well when he - hopefully - leaves SOON.
Today Stephens did very well, so let´s give him some credit when deserved, and..... with a classy, physically strong leader type CB next to him (costing 20+ million pounds, I´m afraid) he might become good, because - though he is very far from being the finished article - he does have a good understanding of the game as a "playing CB". Also I think he has a positive influence on the bounding between players and other people around him in the club, because he is a good lad with a good attitude towards gaffer and team mates.
2


superhoopdownunder added 01:58 - Dec 22

Highlights were BOS - not sure why he started on the bench - he turned the game for us
I thought Eze and Amos also played very well

Lowlights were missed chances especially by Wells - a couple of terrible misses
Full backs - poor performances by Kane and Manning
Terrible mistake at the end by Cameron

We completely dominated the first 30 minutes and then Charlton's second change was tactical which negated our advantage up front and in midfield. Charlton then got on top and it was only when BOS got on after 66 minutes that we took charge of the game again - I think Warburton should have acted much sooner.
0


Geoff78 added 12:03 - Dec 22

Like other games Rs start ok, then lose their way, start giving the ball away and can't adapt to changes in how the opposition are playing. But a strange game. For long periods Charlton looked very poor and Rs played well. But they made the usual quota of gross errors in their own half of the pitch and but for some excellent keeping from Lumley could have conceded 4 or 5.
0


Bettwsresident added 17:16 - Dec 26

Armstrong, Bednarek, Stephens, all 10/10. Hojberg, Redmond, Soares, JWP and Bertand really good, best game ever for Obarfemi and even Che worked really hard. What a brilliant result and our best defensive display since VVD threw the toys out. We stifled them and then hit on the break with speed and power, could have been 3 or even 4, Che just missed a tap in and redmond should have buried it when through.
Great Christmas present, and I just love away games!
4


codge added 17:48 - Dec 26

Have to admit didn't see that coming, but most welcome for sure.Thought the whole team played well our defense was very organized finally which made such a difference.Now if we can produce this form at home we will be moving up in the right direction.As l said great alround performance by everyone,well done Saints.
3


aceofthebase added 19:06 - Dec 26

Great leadership in defence, great performance by Stephens, great goals by Obafemi and Redmond, great management in team selection and timely substitutes, great midfield with Armstrong making strong offensive moves supported by JWP and our captain, great goalkeeping controlling our penalty area, great all-round team performance by the settled team and a great big smile on my face.
4


aceofthebase added 19:06 - Dec 26

Great leadership in defence, great performance by Stephens, great goals by Obafemi and Redmond, great management in team selection and timely substitutes, great midfield with Armstrong making strong offensive moves supported by JWP and our captain, great goalkeeping controlling our penalty area, great all-round team performance by the settled team and a great big smile on my face.
1


KriSaint added 23:33 - Dec 26

Over the moon about this performance. Totally deserved win, clean sheet, and it could have been 4-0 to us.
We have a system that works and players in all positions who put in a shift.
What a fine goal by Obafemi and likewise built up and finish in relations to the second scoring. For me Stuart Armstrong was man of the match, and I am so happy for him. Thanks to our fans who sang and sang sang during the match and congrats´ to everyone involved the club and to every fellow Saints fan.
Totally deserved win, clean sheet, and it could have been 4-0 to us.
Keep it going , lads. Enjoy, everybody, and to my fellow TUI members - be back in less than 48 hours. Thanks.
2


KriSaint added 05:32 - Dec 27

Let us hold hands :-D and never forget these two sequences in succession in the second half:

Minute 70:38:

We´ve pressed Chelsea high up the field and they get a goal kick which they take very quickly and go for a counter while we still have a lot of our players in their half - with quick movement of the ball, played out from the back. We manage to win the ball back shortly in the middle of the park, where there is no space and loose it and they break away again - BUT - JWP makes a professional foul on Mount on the left about 6 yards from the half way line and - fantastically - avoids a yellow card even after having prevented Mount to take an instant freekick TWICE (with JONATHAN MOSS running around with the whistle)....

Mount finally manages to take the freekick and Chelsea quickly get the ball to the edge of our box, where Azpiliqueta crosses, and at the edge of the 6 yard box CEDRIC (of all people) jumps....., rises, and heads the ball up in the air - still inside our penalty box - and Ings manages to huff the ball high up in the air further up our half to the edge of the D where Adams - totally warn out - wins the air duel with Rüdiger, picks up the ball when it hits the ground and moves it towards the left side of their half, desperately followed by Rüdiger and Tomori. Rüdiger tries to prevent Adams in holding up the ball - or worse - getting away for a one-on-one with Kepa, and while trying this Rüdiger puts the ball out for an obvious throw-in to Saints, claiming it´s a Chelsea throw-in :-D

What happens next is epic.

Minute 71:56

After a deserved and highly needed 30 seconds break, Bertrand takes the ball and throws it to Redmond after Ings has created a little space to Redmond with a clever little move.
Redmond passes to Cedric, who passes to Armstrong, who passes to JWP, who passes to PEH who takes the speed of the ball with a one-touch world class left footed pass around Kanté forwards to Armstrong thereby keeping possession and getting the ball into an increasingly dangerous area in very little space, and Armstrong passes to Redmond, who passes to PEH who signals with his right hand that it´s a no-go to pass it to Bertrand who wants it, and instead PEH makes a short pass back to Bednarek, who passes to Jack Cafu Stephens, who dribbles past Mount and passes to Armstrong who makes an incredible one-two with Ings on the right hand side and receives the ball again and chips it past Rüdigers leg, and when Armstrong is just about to pass the ball further - over Azpiliquetas head - to Redmond, who has run in behind into a free position inside the box - it looks like it is actually TOMORI (who runs closely behind Armstrong) who - in a desperate attempt to prevent a goal that would make even M. City very, VERY proud - makes the suicidal but marvellous loop over Azpiliqueta to Redmond who brilliantly chips the ball into the net past Kepa, who has run out and thrown himself down to try to block Redmonds finish.
2-0.
Redmond runs to the corner where Saints fans go mental when Ings joins the party and lifts Redmond in the air with one arm, and several other Saints players join in the celebration after this fantastic goal, in front of our fans, while 10 guys or more in yellow vests - with depressed faces - try to prevent pitch invasion and/or crowd trouble between mental Saints fans and shocked Chelsea fans.
Absolutely outstanding goal after about 15 classy Saints passes.
One of our best "team " goals since Mick Channons famous team goal at The Dell almost 40 years ago?
6


smegma added 09:33 - Dec 27

Leaving your top scorer on the bench until the 87th minute was like Holloway at his best.
0


Polrowe added 10:41 - Dec 27

Appalling referee . Totally biased. Some serious and dangerous fouls not punished
2


LoisDeem added 12:49 - Dec 27

The match rating is clearly from a success starved saints fan.
Manager rating 10/10. Based on: Tactics. Line up. Substitution. Attitude. Commitment. Team work. Timing.
Last but not least: Honesty.
0


Nafelad added 09:21 - Dec 28

Another disappointing 'watch'. An understrength Dale team, opposition full of 'nasty', cheating players, and a very poor referee, incapable or unwilling to deal fairly with the many incidents that occurred in the game. It's all making me lose interest in following the team I've been supporting for more than 50 years.
0


codge added 17:09 - Dec 28

All l have to say for this game thank God we have lngs on our team, bit of a let down to be honest today but was unlucky in the end.Wish Armstrong had started as Boufal had a poor game this time out.
7


mattthelegend added 18:39 - Dec 28

Pleased with the result and another day would have won it. Palace a hard team to break down, offered nothing going forward really and I think one of our bogey teams at home. Great display from Djenepo after he learnt to stay on his feet and unlucky not to win it after his run and cut in. BBC gave Palace keeper MOTM which tells a story. Hats off to JWP who I thought was excellent today hard working and wound Zaha up no end😎. Feel like the team now has some direction and are comfortable with what is being asked of them.
2


halftimeorange added 19:08 - Dec 28

For once an exciting match and, to be honest, a draw was a fair outcome. I'm still unconvinced by Adams positioning but, he did have a few productive lay-offs. Boufal reminded me of Fabrice Fernandes, predictably cutting inside and trying to beat one player too many. And then there is Nathan Redmond. Once again he drifted completely out of the game and contributed nothing in the second half. He is so frustrating to watch. Today, unlike the previous two games, our build-up play in the first half was too slow and, at times, McCarthy could and should have got rid of the ball before Palace set out their defensive stall. When Djenepo got going in the second period the game changed in Saints' favour. He was a constant threat and unlucky not to have scored a wonder goal. Danny Ings was as sharp as ever and JWP had a really good game, constantly harassing Zaha which was just as well as Zaha was always likely to create something for Palace. So, all in all, an entertaining experience.
7


UgandaSaint added 12:34 - Dec 29

Halftimeorange how can you say Redmond did nothing in the second half ? On the contrary, he changed the game by giving away a needless free kick on the edge of our box that resulted in Palace's goal.
2


Addinall added 17:14 - Dec 29

Good performance overall but poor execution at both ends. Surely we are due a break.
0


Dewi1jack added 18:15 - Dec 29

Barnsley looked the team trying hardest, but easy to see why they're down the bottom.
We didn't turn up and truthfully imho are lucky to have a point
Just going to leave that as truly shockingly abysmal
1


smegma added 03:11 - Dec 30

Our second half performance was summed up when a 20 yard Eze shot ended up on the roof of the School End. But you're not allowed to criticise him it seems.
0


Geoff78 added 09:05 - Dec 30

How predictable was that? Good first half, positive attacking play without creating enough penalty area threat, stupid gift of a goal, dreary second half, Rs never get going again and concede at the last from poor defending. And to make it feel worse Hull were poor. There have been a lot of games this season (and before) that would fit this description.

I know possession is important but knocking it between centre halves (halfs?) and a deep lying midfielder shouldn't be the main tactic. BOS had the beating of his full back but too often got the ball facing the wrong way and couldn't use his pace. Wells was ineffective and his tendency to be casual is showing itself too often. We were crying out for Hugill's strength and physicality long before he eventually came on. Even Eze was below his best and seems to have taken shooting lessons from Hugill skying high over the bar.

But good to see Amos getting better and more influential. I can only assume his substitution was because of concerns about his fitness. Smith was poor when he came on. Chair and Samuel also played well. But the footballing Gods clearly don't love us at the moment.
0


codge added 17:17 - Jan 1

Another well earned 3pts for Saints,everyone is playing there part and staying focused.What can you say about Inks other than long may it continue,on a fabulous run at the moment.Long came on and did a great job winning everything in the air and on the ground,a really impressive performance once again, also love Armstrong back to his best.
4


sidsaint added 17:29 - Jan 1

Good all round team display. Back 4 unrecognisable from the dark days of the Leicester game. Well done Saints what a recovery, what a great Festive period with 10 points from 12. Happy days. Keep it going.
3


Bettwsresident added 17:36 - Jan 1

A win at home and a clean sheet as well. We bossed them. This was the Saints of 4 years ago and the transformation has been incredible, Kudos to Ralph. We dominated midfield, Hojberg, JWP and Armstrong nicked the ball again and again. Hojberb was immense, a proper midfield general. Ings defended from the front harrying the spurs defence into mistakes again and again, and took the goal superbly. Watching Cedric win a header against Kane, summed up the day. We were up for it, they weren't. There were only a couple of 5mins spells when they came into the game, but the latent threat was always there and as the clock ticked down the nerves, tiredness kicked in.

Mention for Redmond, he is maturing in a good player, whilst he did not attack when presented with the opportunity a couple of times, he cut them apart with a couple of mazy runs, defended superbly and linked well with Ings. I only wish he could shoot at the sides of the goal rather than at the keeper every time!
2


NewburySaint added 18:25 - Jan 1

10 out of 10 for all against Spurs team out thought and out fought, and against yet another “strange” performance from Mike Dean
3


NewburySaint added 18:54 - Jan 1

Forgot to add “but 10.1 out of 10 for Hojberg”.
2


Addinall added 19:26 - Jan 1

Finally the just rewards.
2


Geoff78 added 22:48 - Jan 1

Well - who saw that coming? Rs have played beautifully in patches all season but unfortunately those patches have been getting shorter and shorter. Until today, when they controlled the game for 80 minutes and even when Leistner's injury meant we had to play the last 10 minutes with 10 men we were doing ok until the last kick of the game. Sad to say Lumley should have done better with that long range shot, but today is a day to dwell on the positives - and there were many. Strangely I thought Cardiff looked a better team than Hull had done on Sunday, and their recent form has been quite good so this really was a special performance from the Rs.

Rightly Samuel and Wells will get the most praise but I'd like to single out Amos and Ball in our midfield for providing a solid base, preventing Cardiff from building any momentum, and Amos especially for prompting the attack with a good range of interceptions, passing and movement. He's taken his time after a serious injury and perhaps found adapting to the Championship difficult at first, but is now showing why he has been highly rated. Also a shout for Warbs whose decision to play Cameron at right back came out of left field (to coin a phrase). I thought he wouldn't have the pace or mobility, but his strength and height were invaluable when we had to survive Cardiff's arial assault.

Bright Osayi-Samuel is in peak form. Not just his pace, but his strength in the tackle and his balance when recovering from challenges are brilliant. Even better he's scoring goals - fabulous goals - and more often putting the ball into the right areas when crossing, i.e. where our strike force is waiting. Teams aren't able to double up on him and Eze so space appears. Long may he continue to scare full backs.
2


KriSaint added 02:26 - Jan 2

Get in there :-)

Happy new Year Everyone. Great work rate in a deserved 1-0 win against a poor Spurs side. Ingsy the match winner. The man is pure class.
Biggest referee mistake and VAR mistake in the entire season, when both Dean and VAR somehow didn´t see the clearest handball in the box You´ll ever see - by Judas Alderweireld. Luckily it didn´t matter, but had it mattered, it should have been the final nail in the coffin for Mike Dean. I don´t know whether he is bribed or just insane, but it is time to help the poor post turtle down. He is ridiculously useless.
2


QPRski added 14:30 - Jan 2

Few
0


I_would added 17:28 - Jan 2

Where were the performances with effort earlier in the season?
-1


wibbersda added 17:24 - Jan 4

If Adams was brought in as a long term replacement for Long, then hes doing a great job of replicating his goal tally.
0


I_would added 17:37 - Jan 4

Did we win?

At least we saw Romeu break his own record for backwards and sideways passing, truly rubbish. Thank god for the kids at least they can shoot straight when they're in front of goal.
0


FaroSaint added 18:00 - Jan 4

A win but only just . A game littered with errors and against any real competition we would have beeen slaughtered. Vestergaard cannot pass and is a hoofer . Boufal showed why he was sent on loan same old same old .
Well done to Vokins and Smallbone they took their chances .
Long and Ward Prowse the only class acts . Awful to watch and levels below our recent performances .
Hassenhutl will know who he needs to get rid of after this display.
6


mattthelegend added 18:14 - Jan 4

Don’t know what everyone was expecting, Sky BT have done an exceptional job of killing the magic of the cup. No one takes it seriously because the riches of the premier league far out-way the prestige of the FA Cup sadly. Vestergaard please can we get shot of to Werder Bremen ASAP.
6


janecook added 19:10 - Jan 4

That game showed why we need to buy new players in this transfer window.
5


aceofthebase added 21:20 - Jan 4

Ball retention by back passing and playing at walking pace across the back four was boring to watch, totally unambitious and disgraceful.
We should have given Adams a game. Oh, I just heard he was playing.
Boufal who I love to see for his tricks gave the ball away far too often and his attitude was again questionable.
Well done JWP for playing but with his recent efforts, he was the first on my list to get a rest.
Well done Smallbone and Vokins for their goals but they are a long way away from bursting into the first team.
Has Romeu aged? He does look unfit and tired in body and mind.
Will Danso ever get a chance to play as a CB? He is not a wing-back.
Good news tho'! We Won (as we should have done)
2


WestSussexSaint added 21:22 - Jan 4

A dull dull game with the only bright points being the two goals by the youngsters. Saints “reserves” were poor but the match as a spectacle was not helped by a Huddersfield team that was determined to just get it out of the way with the minimum level of damage. After scoring the first goal I had hoped Huddersfield would be forced out to search for an equaliser but they stuck rigidly to plan A - get 11 men behind the ball. I actually feel sorry for the away fans travelling all that way to witness zero ambition and fight.
2


John111 added 12:21 - Jan 5

I’m calmly watching all the matches here https://www.footballstream.video/ By the way, I like the site completely, so use it and you can find everything for yourself for free, which’s a big plus
0


smegma added 18:53 - Jan 5

Anyone who posted abuse online regarding the team selection before the game should go and support Brentford.
-1


Toast_R added 19:45 - Jan 5

Once QPR hit the opener they dominated proceedings with good interplay, pace in BOS and mesmerising skills in Ilias Chair the latter of which, came to life in this match and tormented the Swans from start to finish. QPR who have been creating chances but missing them a lot this season have put a new year resolution into practice and started putting them away and now adding worldies to boot with two terrific goals from Wallace to put the game beyond doubt and Scowen to add sumptuous cherry on an already fine looking cake. QPR have now surely dumped those years of miserable early FA Cup exits into the history books where they can be stored in a quiet dark place and forgotten about. Fourth round here we come, please be kind and lets keep this season ticking over nicely. You R's!
2


KriSaint added 08:27 - Jan 6

10 changes in the starting line up - and we won. Boring match but fully approved.
Fulham away in the next round, please ;)

Vestergaard started with 3 class 30 yard passes and then faded away.
Danso tried his best - out of position.
Very happy for Smallbone and Vokins. I can see them become regular first teamers some day. The fine goals from this match will help.
0


francisbowles added 10:32 - Jan 6

This is my 50th year of going to Loftus Road and I cannot remember two consecutive results like this before. Shame we have to go back to playing English teams!
1


smegma added 10:45 - Jan 6

At the end of January we will probably have 3 contenders for BBCs Goal Of The Month.
0


Royboy48 added 12:32 - Jan 6

The persecution of the Welsh continues apace....
0


PhilT added 17:20 - Jan 6

Great game and the best “Ellerslie Rd shut” game I think I’ve been to. I was expecting to see Cameron shepherding Masterson through the game but within minutes he was pointing where Geoff should be, he looks a prospect. Chair was quality and I’m sure a few goals are coming his way - feelinging in me that says normal service will be resumed but, a great week to follow The Rangers
0


codge added 17:17 - Jan 11

Fantastic result and well deserved,what a difference from the last time we played them and this result was just as good to put to bed there 9-0 nothing doing this on there ground.Only negative is the balls we passed to the other side especially Hojbjerg and Redmond but this was a big win for Saints,was not expected by the media.Coys.
3


codge added 17:18 - Jan 11

Fantastic result and well deserved,what a difference from the last time we played them and this result was just as good to put to bed there 9-0 nothing doing this on there ground.Only negative is the balls we passed to the other side especially Hojbjerg and Redmond but this was a big win for Saints,was not expected by the media.Coys.
1


I_would added 17:31 - Jan 11

Great win. Armstrong really makes the difference instead of Romeu. PEH absolutely rubbish and a liability. Redmond pointless pass it or fook off. Ward Prowse not one dead ball exactly where needed and another failed free kick. I know Leicester were poor but we kept them under the cosh, Stephens is getting better and did a good long ball.
-4


NewburySaint added 17:36 - Jan 11

Surely all 10 out of 10, even the subs-what a result & performance, especially after going 1 down-we smashed ‘em.

Also fair play to ref Mason as well who is surely 1 of the most hated refs around-if I was marking him at half time I’d have given him 1 out of 10 just for turning up but he was a lot better in the 2nd.

& finally a word for our “friends” from Leicester-what a bunch of w@&*ers they’ve turned into-I was quick enough to praise their support during their seasons when they avoided relegation & then won the league but they’ve gone completely the other way-well done to my fellow Saints fans their today in not rising to the provocation.
5


SaintPaulVW added 17:54 - Jan 11

Played really well right from the start. Ings should have had a hat trick ...but don't want to be greedy.

What a change in defence. Really functioning well as a unit now.

Everyone is working hard, not sure I can really fault anyone. Full credit to Ralph.

Shane ran his socks off and Adams makes another great assist.

Things are looking up.

6


TimSaint added 18:31 - Jan 11

Quality performance from the start to the finish. Everyone really put a shift in and did fantastically well to restrict the current 2nd best team in the country to only 5 shots all game.
With a bit more luck, we could have had 4 or 5. OK Armstrong's goal had a deflection, but Ings was so unlucky to hit the bar twice in a minute at the end of the first half. That 2nd shot was a real belter. He should have also had another after putting us in front, but Schmichael saved well.
VAR did it's best to spoil the game, but I guess if Long was marginally offside, then Evans was too and Ihianacho was miles off.
Great to keep that VARdy quiet and Ings outgunned him - but Maddison still up for continued diving.
There were a few wayward passes - hopefully MOTD2 will show Bednarek on 2Good 2Bad tomorrow night, it was THAT BAD !! :-)
Superb result though - everyone deserves high praise.
Here's hoping for a similar result next week, then the week after as well, as we become the first team to beat the Scousers this season ? (they are winning at Spurs as I write this)

7


Sandyman added 20:12 - Jan 11

Never a ref as bad as Andy Haines recently, who could be, but today's official let Bolton get away with lots of pulling pushing and tugging whilst punishing Dale for similar offences. Inconsistent. Obviously not as biased towards Bolton as Radio Manchester, who could be, but he was poor.
1


deanosfc8 added 21:09 - Jan 11

Just a shame the club only released 1200 tickets for this game, would have been so much sweeter for the players and fans with a full allocation.
-1


Geoff78 added 23:34 - Jan 11

The first half is too painful to mention and although the second was much better I'm not sure it told us anything much, except that Masterson looks ready to play regularly. Certainly better than Cameron as CB, although did face much less pressure.

I wanted to say something about Wells and Hugill. Wells is much more mobile, has some pace and when the team is playing well he looks great. But he is too casual and inclined to make big mistakes. They don't get the attention of Lumley's mistakes as they usually (with one awful recent exception) lead to a missed opportunity rather than a goal conceded.

Hugill can be lumbering, but battles hard and his height and strength means he can hold the ball up or provide flick ons. His height is also useful in defending corners. Wells defending cost us the first goal today.

Overall Wells is probably the better player, but a front 4 off Wells, Samuel, Chair + Eze is too light weight unless we can overrun teams. Today all of our front 4 were poor except for the odd flash.

Who's worried about facing Leeds? Depends entirely which team turns up - smooth, fluid, quick passing and creative team who smashed Cardiff and Swansea. Or the feeble bunch who couldn't lay a glove on Brentford for most of the first half? Why so inconsistent?
0


underweststand added 09:12 - Jan 12

Best game of the season ? An away win against the second -best team in the best League in the World ?
Especially good after the memory of the October massacre, that will remain in the record books this was just another away win. Why can't we play like this at St.Marys.?

YES Ralph- VAR does make it fair - even if it did cost us a legitimate penalty. Without VAR we'd have lost that match, and in "Leicester's 2-2 equaliser" incident they had two players in offside positions and the assistant was in line with them - but didn't flag at all.
2


smegma added 10:54 - Jan 12

I cant believe the ref has been given 4.3 average. Obviously sour grapes. He was not in nvolved in any controversial decisions that were detrimental to Rangers. He could have given Bees a penalty first half but didn't. Ive seen them given. Hall could have got a second yellow card but didn't. No one could have moaned if he was red carded. But some are appearing to blame the ref for yet another no show at Griffin Park . Look at our players for the reason we were mullered first half.
0


Ned_Kennedys added 12:08 - Jan 12

Good to see that a large number of Brentford fans have bothered to come on here and vote up all their players' ratings.
0


oakskull added 12:30 - Jan 13

Lumley, again, a serious promotion contender would not employ a keeper this bad.
0


I_would added 17:11 - Jan 18

Ward Prowse appalling at defending and was directly responsible for a goal. Hodge Bodge was even worse and was also directly responsible for a goal and recorded the world's highest number of back passes. Absolute s**t.
0


Addinall added 17:37 - Jan 18

For once the gods were with us!
0


Boris1977 added 17:42 - Jan 18

Disappointing but var has been good to us re palarse etc. A slip of concentration against a good team. Bar injuries complacency is the biggest potential problem with the existing lads. We'll be fine and a couple of strategic non panic reinforcements would be healthy. Together as one .
9


codge added 17:44 - Jan 18

In the first half we saw the new Saints unfortunately the old Saints showed up in the second half.
If you tell me we don't need help in the heart of the defense then your watching a different match.Hojbjerg needs to give up the captaincy and start concentrating on the rest of his game such as passing to our players not there's.
Should of put this game away earlier but the old mistakes came back to haunt us, we have had a great run hopefully this is a one of blip.Coys.
6


Boris1977 added 17:50 - Jan 18

Disappointing but var has been good to us re palarse etc. A slip of concentration against a good team. Bar injuries complacency is the biggest potential problem with the existing lads. We'll be fine and a couple of strategic non panic reinforcements would be healthy. Together as one .
1


smegma added 18:18 - Jan 18

You got to hand it to Nahki Wells, he took his goal very well.
0


the_saint added 18:46 - Jan 18

Ahh there is the old jack Stephen's where you been hiding son.
7


TimSaint added 19:06 - Jan 18

Game of 2 halves. For all that was good in the first half, it was a complete reversal in the 2nd.

A great battling and competitive performance in the first half, with some well taken goals and some decent, calm, non-panic passing.

2nd half we were just so complacent and thought we had already won it. Time and time again, we let Wolves into the game with stupid errors and ultimately gave them the momentum to go on and win it.

The team is too flat, one dimensional and predictable. By simply putting Traore up top with Jiminez, Wolves created panic. Cedric and Bert had done well to stop him, but as soon as he had to be picked up by Bed and Stephens, he had freedom, or we put 2 on him and left Jiminez unmarked. (Just like West Ham and Antonio !!)

Don't know why Stephens dived in and I though it was prob a pen.

For the last goal, we tried a silly flick on the edge of their box, lost possession, 2 passes later they had broke away, crossed and scored !! Then it was hoof it to the unimpacting subs - but we did create 1 chance in 6 minutes of injury time - but Hour blazed high and wifr

The ref was a Prem Virgin though - 1st Prem game today and it showed. Doherty should have got a yellow for handball, Long got pushed all day, they gained at least 10 yards every throw on, but reprimanded Bert and their keeper must have had 5 or 6 warning about time wasting but no card.
Perhaps VAR should have backed the ref for the pen, as he gave a corner ? VAR backed the ref with Alderweirald's hand ball after all !!

Still we didn't deserve anything and I hope it is back to business away from home on Tuesday. It had better be, as that was all PEH was saying on Solent on the way back. Good that we have a chance so soon to show what we can do and make amends. Let's see then!!
3


Geoff78 added 19:29 - Jan 18

Phew! Cracking game as Rs went toe to toe with a quick passing, hard pressing talented Leeds team. The Leeds player's first touch and the speed at which they then moved the ball was phenomenal, often whisking the ball off a QPR player and tearing away before we noticed we'd lost the ball. But for all their pressure they hardly tested Kelly, penalty apart. A series of poor decisions in, not the final third, but the final sixth let them down.

Also standing in their way was a QPR defence playing as well as they have done all season. I thought Hall, Masterson + Wallace were magnificent and Kane only a little behind them. And of course we had in our two superstars, Eze and BOS, players who could threaten and get beyond their marker whenever they had a chance. Samuel got shamelessly little protection from the ref, who seemed keen to make amends for his error on the goal by giving Leeds free kicks whenever they asked. Please Sir, could we have a free kick here?

Although everyone seems to agree the goal should have been disallowed, it's a great shame if accidental, unintentional contact of ball to arm equals a free kick when you are a striker.

And surely after a couple of commanding performances from Masterson (apart from once letting Bamford get away) we should keep him at the KPF and play him regularly? His positioning was excellent, he's good in the air and he can bring the ball forward more effectively than Hall or Leistner.

Very hard to pick out one player as MotM, but I'd be inclined to give it to young Connor.
1


sandywelsh added 19:58 - Jan 18

Hasenhuttl Admits There Is No Need To Panic Buy Now are you sure. Stephens gave away another penalty he was back to his old ways today. Why does Prowse never get taken off when he in not playing well? Armstrong has played well in the last few games but still gets taken off. Make no mistake we need new players in Defence this month.
6


TimSaint added 21:41 - Jan 18

Sandy - Armstrong was taken off because he was so ineffective in the 2nd half. He wasn't involved as much and much of the play bypassed him.
Process could also have been subbed - particularly as he was on a yellow.
The problem was that none of the subs had any sort of impact on the game. We just hoofed it up top and hoped. Djenepo ran about a bit, pulled people back and decided to go on the same wing as Boufal. Boufal himself slipped over a bit and missed a great chance to nick a point at the end.
0


mattthelegend added 08:29 - Jan 19

We had 2 chances early in the second half to make it 3 - 0 but didn’t take them, think it was Ings and long. Still playing well up to that point, unfortunately we didn’t and would have killed the game off. The rest they say is history, on to the next one.
2


SaintPaulVW added 09:52 - Jan 19

Agree we had 5 really good chances in the second half. Couldn't finish.

Unfortunately having now seen it again it was definitely a penalty. The other 2 goals were poorly defended. Players being left unmarked or no challenge put in.

So fault lies at both ends after a really good first half.

The Wolves fans put us to shame with the amount of noise they were making. 2 nil and we cocked it up indeed.

Why Jiminez was allowed to lie on the floor for 3 minutes escapes me.

Bad day at the office after recent weeks. Hopefully the jitters won't set in.
4


dixiedean added 14:56 - Jan 19

Agree with Geoff . Masterson was my mom. Don't really see how Kelly got it , mainly for saving a pen which he stupidly gave away. Oh and Phillips is a grade 1 thug . Should get a 6 game ban for that foul .
0


Rangers67 added 07:42 - Jan 20

Yet another very poor and biased referee. I have said it before , unfortunatley we do not have a whiner or winer who gets in the refs ear. Most other teams do and with these poor refs it pays dividends as the refs are so weak they eventually give in.
0


Supertk added 16:40 - Jan 25

Two things learnt 1, Jack Clarke is NOT the Messiah . 2. Kelly will be the regular goalie for the forseable future. ..
1


Badlands added 14:34 - Jan 29

Brewster equal with Ayew
Cabango less than Guehi
Roberts worse than Bidwell
Woodman highest.
Wow!
0


I_would added 17:17 - Feb 1

Absolute tosh and waste of time watching. The great RB experiment with the boy failed miserably as he was at fault for three goals by being too far up the pitch, not anticipating the oppositions moves and failing to block as usual. Truly rubbish.
-9


dirk_doone added 17:26 - Feb 1

Battling first half performance not helped by the officials. We might easily have gone in 1-0 up at half-time. But in the last quarter the game it became very one-sided and it looked like Liverpool would score every time they attacked.

Our settled back four was like a house of cards. Take one card out and the whole thing collapses. We missed Cedric BADLY. I know he couldn't have played because of injury anyway but we have really shot ourselves in the foot for the remainder of the season. Without Cedric our defence is once again looking like a leaky sieve. Because he had to fill in at right-back, we also missed Ward-Prowse in midfield.
8


SaintPaulVW added 18:39 - Feb 1

Great first half. They got away with a couple of hand balls but the penalty decisions evened out.

Could have been 2 nil up, unfortunately Shane did a great block.

Defence did the usual and just watched people when we needed a bit of positional play or a block.

Hey ho. A bit frustrating if I'm honest. The score doesn't really do us justice.
12


codge added 18:56 - Feb 1

If only we had played the second half like the first.We still showed we need someone to organize the central defense got caught at sixes and sevens for the last two goals.No need to point fingers as it's plain to see where we still need improvement,still the effort can't be faulted but we do seem to always have a lap of concentration that sometimes we get away with and sometimes we don't,this was one we didn't.We have some games coming up now that are very winnable.Coyr.
3


aceofthebase added 19:10 - Feb 1

A great watch and at half time we could have been leading. Friend only gave us free kicks on the halfway line. How was that passback ignored?

Very disappointed that everyone is giving such a low mark to our team, they played really well and with a better ref we could have won
8


mattthelegend added 19:20 - Feb 1

Didn’t watch the game so suppose I can’t really comment, but come on people, with the exception of aceofthebase you’re talking like we lost to MK Dons. Were you really expecting us to get something from a team that has dropped 2 points all season at home?? 🤦‍♂️🤦‍♂️🤦‍♂️ Reality check needed please.
3


Geoff78 added 23:08 - Feb 1

Dreary! Why do we have to wait until extra time to come to life? The BBC tells me we had 18 shots and only one tested the keeper. We had 10 corners and 70+% possession, but lost and to be truthful Bristol City looked pretty composed most of the 90 minutes.

I know, understand and accept that Warbs wants to play out from the back, but we still need movement from our midfield and forwards. The triangles between Wallace, Amos + Masterson, or sometimes Hall generated no momentum, no pressure and no space to attack. Too often when Amos, Eze or Chair get the ball their first instinct is to play it back to a defender or someone in a deeper position. Yet they are all capable of hitting the killer pass or at least one which stretches the opposition defence.

Eze and BOS disappointing today. Hugill keeps battling but gets poor service, and is slow when an opportunity arrives. Hall's marking for the goal dreadful, although just possibly the wind made it difficult for him.

On a positive note we did create half chances, but do we not practice shooting first time? I thought Dom Ball was our best player - he at least showed a desire to get the ball forward and play quickly, rather than waiting until the opposition defence is set up, nine players are behind the ball and then thinking what should we do now.

Oh well there's always next season...
0


HythePeer added 23:52 - Feb 1

I would, I would upvote you again but they wont let me. The others seem to have gone to a different game?
0


the_saint added 10:14 - Feb 2

Saints played extremely well in the first half and could have scored 4 goals ourselves with a bit of luck so well played boys, but we missed 3 things yesterday a natural right back, jwp in central midfield and the biggest one of all stuart Armstrong
10


janecook added 10:51 - Feb 2

Should have tried harder to keep Cedric or bought RB that is Fit to play. Prowse is to slow to play at RB this showed yesterday. Lets hope Armstrong gets fit soon as we missed him big time yesterday.
3


Olive2017 added 11:36 - Feb 2

Just was not getting rub of the green. VVD made all the difference with the service to Salah. Adams again showed promise in the short time on the field: just an unlucky boy. Recharge batteries for Burnley and put this behind us COYR
5


I_would added 15:28 - Feb 2

Thanks for your support Hythe but I do rely on the negative votes from the blinkered saps on here to confirm that my judgement is spot on.
-9


Block8 added 20:19 - Feb 2

Very good performance particularly first half. I thought JWP made a good fist at playing RB. Liverpool were trying really hard to expose his lack of pace with countless balls over the top for Robertson to chase.
The fact they didn't score from any of these, although they got behind us a few times, is testament to good defending.
Unlucky with the first goal but maybe a bit of a mental pause, hoping for the penalty, was our downfall. Second goal well worked, after another long ball clearance & from there Liverpool took over, we pushed forward looking for a goal and left gaps that their pace exploited quite easily.
No shame losing to this Liverpool side but we will miss JWP's influence in midfield on Wednesday if he is forced to play in defence again.
As an aside I loved the Lovren song, even if it was a bit strong considering the amount of kids at the game!
0


LoisDeem added 09:39 - Feb 3

The battle of the the have's and have nots?
One manager allowed to create the best squad in the world, the other barely allowed to make one or two additions to his team that could ensure safety. How far we have come? Has it ever been so?
A 'battling' performance with an inevitable outcome.
One day this club will manage to coincide an obviously shrewd manager with a shrewd board or owner -here's hoping.
Well done manager, team and fans, still believe we can take those NLY on Wednesday.
1


I_would added 15:37 - Feb 3

Battling first half performance. Could have been 2 nil up. A great watch. Saints played extremely well. Just was not getting rub of the green. Very good performance. Well done manager, team and fans.

This is what you saps actually wrote about losing 4-0. Couldn't make it up.
-2


WestSussexSaint added 07:59 - Feb 6

Once again our inability to defend for 90 mins was our undoing. I would score the side 8 out of 10 for the first 70 mins but only 4 out of 10 for the last 20. We are so much better when going forwards that it is our best form of defence, so as soon as Ings scored we sat back to defend the lead which we cannot do. The spaces in and around the centre backs were huge and made easy pickings for good passes and cleaver runs. The subs offered little when they came on. Overall encouraging performance but ultimately disappointing- sums up the life of a saints fan!
4


SaintPaulVW added 09:38 - Feb 6

^ This
-2


sandywelsh added 09:41 - Feb 6

Another game that shows just why we should have bought in some better defenders in the transfer window. Son was left unmarked all night. Our squad is so short in defence that we had to start Prowse at right back. To make things worse he got injured and is not likely to play the next game along with Bednarek who will be banned. We have no cover in defence and who will play their in the next game is any ones guess.
6


the_saint added 09:43 - Feb 6

Var didn't do us any favours when son done a scene from swan lake.
Defence so bad in the final 20 gaps everywhere sitting deep and the serious lack of options at the back to call upon
6


sidsaint added 09:53 - Feb 6

Good open game but again we throw away a lead that was disappointing. Some good performances from our defenders and a class goal yet again from Danny Ings.
-4


aceofthebase added 10:14 - Feb 6

I just feel so sorry for the team, they played with lots of spirit and were the better side. They must have been terribly dejected last night.
This right back issue has caused us a big problem. I' was never a Cedric fan and preferred Valery but with JWP injured we seem to have no-one. I would have preferred Yoshida at right back With JWP back in his normal position and the defence not messed around with by moving Jack Stephens to right back . However, Maya has left, almost criminal to release him.
The next game with injuries and bans will expose a new line up in defence and that sense of optimism is beginning to fade.
Finally what a brilliant goal by Ings and provided by Redmond, one of the best I have seen from a Saints team
4


Billeewithers added 11:07 - Feb 6

I think the problem apart from a slightly dodgy defence, same in the 1960’s, is the lack of goals in the team. Has been the biggest problem for several years.
We have wingers and midfielders who offer little threat in terms of goals. Plus no defenders who score from set plays. Further we create loads of chances, enough to have beaten Liverpool and spurs by a good margin. We lack any kind of clinical edge or composure. What I have seen of shooting practice is kicking in from the edge of the area or dummies blocking the goal. Surely one should create realistic defence set ups for players to produce under real pressure .... oh oh back to not enough good defenders.
2


Boris1977 added 11:44 - Feb 6

Still cannot come to terms with gifting the result against an uninspired spuds team. Regardless of the penalty the game should have been over by 70 mins. The look on Ings face when the equaliser went in spoke volumes 'WTF do I have to do to end up on the winning side'.

The fall out from this game is that we are without JWP possibly for the rest of the season, do not have a proven or match fit RB and lack cover in CB. Stephens has stepped up incredibly and has grown into the role of CB so to play him at RB for the rest of the season will be a massive loss.

Not many fans are happy with their boards activity but ours seem to be intent on taking unnecessary risk after unnecessary risk in order to save a few million quid. Ridiculous.
8


I_would added 12:40 - Feb 6

Romeu was utterly hopeless and was lazily ball watching and jogging instead of tackling and helping the CB's cover which is his job. Shouldn't be near a pitch.
The owners threw the match away with their naive use of the transfer surplus as usual. Will come home to roost now the injuries are staring to pick up. Never should have moved Cedric on or Yoshida or Sims or.......................................
-2


codge added 12:46 - Feb 6

We score 2 they score three and so it goes with our inability to defend for 90 minutes again, until we sought the middle of our defense which we have said for ever we will continue to suffer this way.
3


LoisDeem added 15:24 - Feb 6

Whilst I hate VAR -and we're better off without it -why was it not employed properly?
Penalty needed clarification to say the least. Corner kicks (one each) wrong, so negates it's use here.
Anyone else see Che Adams booking after their lad poleaxed Nathan Redmond?
Similarly with Jan Bednarek.
The referee was poor, and seemed to be protecting /favouring the side from the metropolis!
4


janecook added 16:47 - Feb 6

The Referee spoilt a good
0


janecook added 17:21 - Feb 6

The Referee spoilt a good game. He booked 4 of our players and only 1 of theirs plus he was biased to spurs all night. If he gave a penalty for Son diving then Bertrand should have had one also. Why did we not bring in any better defenders in January?
3


sdm19994 added 10:40 - Feb 12

awful game, solid performance from the boys, hugill looking shot at the moment.
0


francisbowles added 11:34 - Feb 12



0


I_would added 14:47 - Feb 15

Not surprised with the result. RH has to drop Long and JWP for a start, they're not doing anything to justify continually being first choice. Too much hesitation and negativity in the build ups and midfield. He HAS to change the starting line up or we'll sink like a stone again.
-9


TimSaint added 14:58 - Feb 15

Same old disappointing performance and result at home.
Freak goal that Ings should have cleared but made amends with style and a quality finish.
I thought and hoped we would then go on to win it, but again we are let down by poor defending, poor decisions in front of goal and a real lack of urgency when trailing and trying to get something out of the game.
All too similar a story to the rest of our home games this season.
We had 3 things to defend in 2nd half - the goal where we stood off, let him turn, avoid a challenge and shoot, the ball across our 6 yard box with our defence at 6's and 7's and JRod shot where we stood off and allowed him to shoot.
With Wood off, Ralf should have changed it.
We were bullied but didn't get help from the ref again. How did Cork not get booked for his scissors tackle, or the foul on Armstrong in the corner not even get given ?
Still, we didn't do enough in front of goal either and paid the price at the other end. These rain loving sods have done the double over us !! Not even Leicester, Chelsea, Spurs, Arsenal and Man Utd can boast that !!
10


Boris1977 added 15:00 - Feb 15

Europe here we come....
-2


Boris1977 added 15:00 - Feb 15

Europe here we come....
-2


Boris1977 added 15:01 - Feb 15

Europe here we come....
-1


codge added 15:05 - Feb 15

Yet again we get let down in the coverage for the goal,same mistakes time and again we never learn.This was an awful game to watch but the mistakes leading to there goals were school boy defending.This is a game we should of won with ease but no not Saints they never make things easy.Hope were not slipping back to our old ways.
9


janecook added 15:58 - Feb 15

Oh dear back to normal. A couple of injuries and our lack of cover shows up. We missed Redmond big time today, but we were doing ok until Boufal went off to be replaced by Djenepo who just runs about like a headless chicken. Another miss was Bednarek who was replaced by Vestergaard who was slow and gave the ball away a few times. Should have brought in better defenders in January.
9


janecook added 15:59 - Feb 15

Oh dear back to normal. A couple of injuries and our lack of cover shows up. We missed Redmond big time today, but we were doing ok until Boufal went off to be replaced by Djenepo who just runs about like a headless chicken. Another miss was Bednarek who was replaced by Vestergaard who was slow and gave the ball away a few times. Should have brought in better defenders in January.
1


AmericanSaint added 16:24 - Feb 15

Yeah this was a disappointment for sure. 1-1 at half and we should have brought on Benderak for Vestagaard for the speed (since Wood left the game). This would have allowed for quicker transition. Burnley's second goal was quality, give credit where credit is due. The issue I saw was the easy turn over in their half. Someone needs to tell Djanepo to cross the ball instead of always trying to dribble in the box. Next, THAT was a handball and how VAR didnt call it was gross negligence by the VAR ref. Also, Burnley should have had several more yellow cards against Cork for that tackle. Well, we need to regroup and get ready for the next game. COYR.
5


Block8 added 21:22 - Feb 15

Quite simply we lack the ability to break down teams who sit deep!
Boufal was & is the only player we have that can go past players in a tight space and his injury made their defending easier, as we seemed to run out of ideas.
Because of the way we generally play we end up hitting long balls at a defence that thrives under this style of play. They in turn move the ball forward quickly to fast and eager strikers.
Armstrong, Boufal, Stephens & only because of the goal, Ings were the only ones who performed to any level today.
Ralph needs to revise tactics against teams who play this way of we are to progress.
Also Adam's is unlikely to show much improvement with roughly six minutes a game!
6


sidsaint added 23:13 - Feb 15

Very disappointing. We didn't seem to play the right way in the wind and rain allowing the wind to blow the ball off course instead of keeping it on the deck. Not helped by the awful goal to give away after a couple of minutes but what a great equaliser by Danny Ings. This should have boosted us to go on to win the game but for long periods had no idea what to do and were not helped by poor refereeing. Another home game we should win next week but will we have enough confidence.
6


dixiedean added 04:00 - Feb 16

Cameron MOM for me . He obviously doesn't like Stoke!
1


SaintPaulVW added 08:00 - Feb 16

Aside from that really odd first goal, same old same old. Looked great for most of the first half. Then let a goal in and it all went to pot.

Agree completely with the fact that we are too slow going forwards against sides that drop back deep. End up doing that useless 'hit and hope' passing low crossing into the box. Sometimes our attacking players look like they have only just started playing together and haven't got the slightest idea what their team mates might do next.

JS had some cracking runs forward. He has really improved this year. KWP had a good but not great debut.

RH's subs were a bit odd. All the attackers seemed to crowd each other out.

Tbh JV terrifies me, he is so slow and really not suited to this build from the back style. Djenapo seems to have gone backwards. Perhaps they just both need a run of games.

Playing an organised side like Burnley in the rain was always going to be a challenge. Unfortunately we didn't meet it. Not the end of the world. COYS
5


Geoff78 added 10:50 - Feb 16

Really entertaining and enjoyable in spite of the wind and rain. Once Rs got going they were much the better team. It looked as if the goals for Hugill and Eze really boosted their confidence. There were some terrific battles. BOS v Martins Indi - the latter playing really well and keeping Bright quiet until tiring late on. Hugill v Batth - although we had the obligatory easy chance blasted over, Hugs worked hard throughout and was a real handful for the Stoke defence.

But as already voted for here, MotM was Cameron. When he's fired up he's terrific, just as long as no nifty young midfielders are exposing his lack of pace.
0


sandywelsh added 10:56 - Feb 16

Well they look much better after their winter break. What a total load of shite. Half of them looked like they were still on their break only Armstrong, Boufal, Stephens and Ings looked like they cared. Burnley have done the double over us this season and they are a team you would expect us to beat every time we play them. Well Ralph has a week to get them playing as a team again because we need to beat Villa next Saturday. Hopefully next Saturday we will have a full squad to choose from with Redmond, Boufal and Bednarek all fit.
3


aceofthebase added 11:43 - Feb 16

I believe that RH picks a better team when he doesn't exercise his limited brain power.

Play your best players in their best positions RH, it is that simple.

Incidentally, if any other player than Ings had made that horrendous error that conceded a goal then we would be demanding he never, ever, wore a Saints shirt again. I know, he scored a great goal.

I think I'm suffering from depression, It's so difficult being a Saints fan.
0


francisbowles added 12:47 - Feb 16

Cameron edged MOM for me but after he was booked, I was very worried he might get a second yellow! Ball, Eze, Bright and Hugill also candidates and the rest of the team (and Chair) were all solid 7s on my marking.
0


MickB added 14:04 - Feb 16

I usually find myself agreeing with the MOTM assessments but this time, for me, it was Dominic Ball. Not only did he have an outstanding game but after we went two down he was the one who looked noticeably pumped up for a fightback. We need a bit more of that!
0


JoeEgg added 09:24 - Feb 17

One week the team is being touted for a top six position and the next more likely a place in the bottom six. A wasted January window and the alarming prospect now of losing more key players to injury with no experienced replacements. Brilliant forward thinking and planning as usual from the management
0


I_would added 15:29 - Feb 17

More negative comments on my posts please, only -8, I'm starting to worry.
-2


I_would added 09:58 - Feb 18

Thank you.
-1


Boris1977 added 17:11 - Feb 22

Phew. 6 PTS needed. Not really a test but at 1-0 grelish made me nervous. Smallbone should be pleased this evening.
10


Boris1977 added 17:14 - Feb 22

Oh and credit to Shane long - our modern era Jo Tessem
7


Sadoldgit added 17:26 - Feb 22

A massive 3 points. Another excellent performance from JWP. Fair play to the board for keeping faith with Ralph.
5


codge added 17:49 - Feb 22

Well done lads a great rebound from last game,so pleased for Armstrong amongst others was exceptional.
We should of put the game away a lot sooner but a win is what counted,so well done to all onward and upwards.
9


aceofthebase added 17:54 - Feb 22

great result, we can ignore any niggling negatives. A very good team performance and so pleased that mousa blended in.
2


Saintsforeverj added 18:23 - Feb 22

Brilliant performance. The whole team were superb. Smallbone looks a player doesn't he? And the ref - good performance from him.
6


FaroSaint added 18:42 - Feb 22

28 shots on goal some woeful finishing . A good result though but we need to be more clinical to stop my nail biting !!!!
7


Block8 added 20:07 - Feb 22

Pretty good game, crowd was excellent from the start!
Could & probably should have scored more, defended very well with JWP playing excellent at RB!
Privileged to watch Grealish who is Villas May Le Tiss although whether he is good enough to keep them up in not sure!
3 points now for West Ham
COYR
5


Ali_Diarea added 20:28 - Feb 22

I thought Hojbjerg and JWP were awesome today. Hojbjerg really ‘stepped up to the plate’ with an inexperienced player alongside him in midfield.

Hats off to Ralph for picking Smallbone, rather than going for the obvious, and slightly negative, tactic of playing Romeu.

I really felt for Adams today, I don’t know how their defender blocked his effort, gutted!

Great performance, onwards and upwards!
7


CommonSaint added 20:57 - Feb 22

Well done to the whole team played like we all know they can. Can not single out any one player as they were all deserving the MOM this week. Although with the slating's he had recieved on here in the past think Jack Stephens deserves special mention.
6


EvertonSaint added 22:58 - Feb 22

Nice to have a huge smile at the end. Fully deserved to be 4-0 but once again disappointing in front of goal. Oh to get Jack Grealish in our team next year. What a pass by Che Adams to set up Armstrong at the end and despite being at the end of the game...he went like a train to reach the ball and calmly slotted the ball home. Seen it several times on YouTube ...gets better ever time. Now three points at West Ham will be enough to guarantee our place for next season
8


AmericanSaint added 01:10 - Feb 23

Well I was surprised how poorly AVL came out and we totally dominated the first half. If it wasnt for Reina, we would have been 4 up by half. Everyone played the full 90+ minutes and we were much better at passing in the channels today. Dont let the shot count fool you, most of our shots were in the stands or a mile wide. JWP shows his versatility and his did ball crosses were spot on today. Moussa impressed me as he never gave up on any ball and hustled all the way to the end. He has to work on his finishing though as he missed a setter. All in all it was a good game by all and thankfully no VAR interference. On to the next. COYR.
3


SaintPaulVW added 02:24 - Feb 23

Great performance. Deserved to be 3-0 up at half time. Great assists from MD and CA. Smallbone had a great debut.

6 from the next 9 points and we can then really push on without looking over our shoulders. COYR!
3


dannyblue added 09:53 - Feb 26

Stroud was actually fine until he took that knock to the head and added 5 minutes.
1


Geoff78 added 14:17 - Feb 26

A game of 4 quarters (and a bit) on a bitterly cold night, when for the first quarter, both teams looked as though they'd rather have stayed in a warm dressing room. But then Rs got going and managed to pass the ball to each other, rather than hitting it directly into touch. Kelly remarkably managed to do just that 3 times in the first 15 minutes.

The second half started with a period of Derby dominance, but by the fourth quarter Rs had regained the initiative and deserved the winning goal. The last 10 minutes were very nervy, and although Rs had chances to clinch the game, in truth, we were fortunate to get 3 points.

Dom Ball has really come on during the course of the season. He plays further forward now and has an important role in prompting the more skillful players ahead of him, but still breaks up play and gets in tackles. Toss up between him and Eze for MotM. The latter looked a class above everyone else on the pitch, especially when robbing Rooney and winning a free kick for the foul.

Any chance the team could practice defending corners?? Would really help.
2


Royboy48 added 16:52 - Feb 26

Hall's goal was a well choregraphed homage to Zamora's Wembley wonder goal. Check out QPRNYC on twitter for the best meme of the week

Sometimes football is near perfect; hook up at C&S with old friend up from Bournemouth, Weeping Tiger - better with noodles, not rice, London Pride - never wait long for service, walk to ground, perfect weather, truly entertaining game from 2 teams with little to play for, deserved 2-1 result, smile on my face all the way back to Colchester, extended highlights next day, await Clive's latest masterpiece. Delight tempered only by a feeling of regret that we are seeing the last performances in hooped shirts by some of these exciting talented players
0


felixstowe_jack added 10:09 - Feb 27

Great performance by everyone in our team no weak links tonight. Pity the match was decided by a biased, incompetent, homer ref who was not fit to referee a parks match.
0


I_would added 17:48 - Feb 29

Where do you start, can't be bothered.
0


codge added 17:56 - Feb 29

Well here we go again first goal bad pass from JWP leads to first goal,then McCarthy makes a complete screw up for the second then defense goes awol for the third.Going forward is not the problem for us but defending has been for three years now and has to be sorted,cause we have been saying that for ever it seems.
We had two right backs on the bench but we choose to play our center midfielder there, seemed a poor decision but it turned out to be the wrong one.
6


NewburySaint added 17:58 - Feb 29

What a puzzling day! Puzzling team selection, puzzling pedestrian performance, puzzling substitutions (unless there were injuries) & tactics thereafter & most puzzling of all were the sleepy performances of Bednarek, Stephens & McCarthy-it was as though all 3 had been slipped something pre match!

Talking of McCarthy he had a horrible 1st half in everything he did or didn’t do, & the decisions he did or didn’t make, everything was wrong. And I’m a fan who thinks he’s the best goalkeeper we have on our books.
7


janecook added 18:51 - Feb 29

As Nick has been saying are defence is shite. I said before the match why did we have 2 right backs on the bench and then Prowse started at RB? If neither was fit enough for a full game why not play one in each half?
Maybe its time to start Gunn in goal. Why when we were losing 3-1 did Ralph bring on Vestergaard when Adams would have been better bet?
7


vanmans added 19:08 - Feb 29

What a shambles. West Ham looked fitter and better in every department. How many more simple goals are defence going to concede this season. This summer we need to bring in the proper defenders that we have needed for the last 3 seasons.
5


SaintPaulVW added 19:14 - Feb 29

The definition of insanity - do the same thing and expect different results.
3


aceofthebase added 20:32 - Feb 29

Their big players have beaten us home and away.

So many bad points and difficult to name a player who had even an average game.

RH what a bad team selection. Why does he refuse to play Valery and release Jwp to play in midfield?

A very sleepy performance and not what I was expecting.
5


DPeps added 08:20 - Mar 1

Over the last few seasons it's become a recurring theme: inability to break down teams who set up defensively. Yeah we can point to the slightly odd team selection (although plenty on this site were calling for JWP to start at right back after his performance against Villa), but this kind of performance against the likes of WHU and Burnley is a historic problem. As is the defensive errors...
2


Mrangry25 added 08:31 - Mar 1

Really poor performance, our defence (if you can call it that!!) was completley out muscled and out thought.I still cannot get my head around why we cannot seem to pick up players this zonal defence shite does not work. Midfield was inept Captain Chestbeater was pathetic as usual, Boufal was non-existent and Armstrong and Smallbone tried but didn't have their best days.Long and Obafemi were not really given the service with Ings on the bench we were always going to find it difficult to score.
I find it really difficult to gauge this display after last weeks Villa one but hopefully it is just a blip bring on Newcastle.
2


Boris1977 added 09:47 - Mar 1

Play your best players in the correct positions. We're not good enough to rest our best players until safety is mathematically gurenteed. If you stay up the team needs investment over the summer and need to keep our best players. The pre season should be used to work on the best system with the players we have and go into the new season hitting the ground running. We're in trouble this season as Ralph seemed determined to use the idiotic 5 at the back for the first few months of this season despite it not working in pre season. Thankfully the Leicester humiliation killed that did system and the results improved.

We are 5-6 players away from being competitive but it's a big call to ask for this to be fixed over the summer so the rebuilding will take a few seasons. In the meantime we need to keep are best players - no selling to make a quick buck. Mr owner over to you.
1


warrens76 added 10:06 - Mar 1

Reversion to sterile pointless possession with a collection of players not 'gifted' enough to retain same for long enough ie 95 minutes, moreover the poor ball control, retention and lack of vision for the killer pass mean it is pointless, we are not going to address this unless we swap the 5 worst players out and bring 5 better ones in.
1


DPeps added 10:07 - Mar 1

Over the last few seasons it's become a recurring theme: inability to break down teams who set up defensively. Yeah we can point to the slightly odd team selection (although plenty on this site were calling for JWP to start at right back after his performance against Villa), but this kind of performance against the likes of WHU and Burnley is a historic problem. As is the defensive errors...
0


codge added 17:45 - Mar 7

Are we the only team that sooner or later we concede the most stupid of goals.lt was a red card for sure on Djenepo a bad tackle,and the penalty was the correct call also.lf not for Macarthy it could of been a lot worse,
I don’t believe that Valery is the answer to the right back position he always looks out of position,the Ref was also doing us no favors but that’s the way it seems to go lately,well we have the pressure back on again after get some great results it seems we can’t stand prosperity.COYR.
5


I_would added 17:53 - Mar 7

Very entertaining if you like throw ins and fouls. Couldn't even beat that bunch of no hopers.
0


janecook added 18:05 - Mar 7

Now we can see why Ralph does not play Valery. Hope he does not play him again because he is ok going forward but he cant defend. McCarthy played a blinder today and we deserved a draw. It looked like Djenepo was a bit unlucky to be sent off. Now it looks like our squad is a bit thin.
3


davidargyll added 18:50 - Mar 7

What a rubbish game: newcastle were really terrible, especially in mid field, its just that, Alex McCarthy apart, we were not much if any better. I just got the impression that both sides rather wished they were anywhere other than playing football
Yan Valery has proven today he is a lamb in a new-born lamb’s clothing, Christ what an absurd goal for him to give away, especially after all than defending we did with 10 men.
But I’m not sure about the red card; yes Moussa trod on his foot but I couldn’t see how he could possibly have avoided it.
One final point: before the KO, we were plum bottom of the league for home games; guess where we are now....
Squeaky bum time it sure is...
3


AmericanSaint added 18:50 - Mar 7

One mistake and it was needless. Sorry to say but I think I understand why Valery doesnt play. Team did great and 1st half call were correct except the spike to Berty's Chest. That should have been red too. Dont care if he was pulling out of the tackle. Spikes up are spikes up. Alos the ref was horrible today. What I would like to know is when did they start to allow the refs on the field to see the video? This is the 1st time I think it happened in the Prem. Also, Boufal needs to sit. Once we went a man down, he caused us several major issues with his "trickery" in our half instead of just launching the ball. Oh well. Just pissed that we were so close to a well deserved draw and is was gone in a flash. Now we must beat Norwich.
4


aceofthebase added 19:06 - Mar 7

Don't be too unkind to Valery. He hasn't played for months and apart from that disastrous moment he had an all right game. Plenty of other players made mistakes but were not punished with a goal. The team played as a team and it was good to see them consoling Moussa and also Valery. We might not like the result but it was a very spirited display. Before the red card we were well in control and afterwards defended courageously and with energy. Hate the result but pleased with the team.
-7


claus5 added 19:19 - Mar 7

We could have easily been three or four down by half time if it wasn't for our keeper and terrible Newcastle finishing. Nick will have a field day with our useless cb's and rightly so. They both make so many mistakes every single game it's embarrasing. Vallery obviously will take most of the blame and so he should, but Stephans and Bednerak simply can't mark a player. Stephens was right back to his worst today, his heading ability is so poor, his positioning is also dreadfull. I'm also sick and fed up with PEH thumping his chest at the end of another awfull defeat, why not playing a bit better instead? My engine is running if he needs a lift to Spurs [i'll only charge him the petrol]. Let's hope we can pick ourselves up for the Norwich game and can then breath a little easier.
3


halftimeorange added 19:45 - Mar 7

Whether the eventual calls were right or wrong VAR spoilt this game as a spectacle. In neither case - Djenepo's foul or Boufal's handball - did any of the Newcastle players vigorously protest so, one can only assume that they did not think either a red card or a penalty should have been given. VAR adds nothing to a game and I do not believe it will survive other than to determine whether the ball has crossed the goal line. The delays in arriving at the "right" decision are making the whole game a farce but, sadly, this is a consequence of players being trained to question every whistle and simulate being fouled.
3


SaintPaulVW added 07:10 - Mar 8

Still a bit drained. I haven't seen the replay yet but MD's tackle looked a lot like RB's in the Leicester game -100 times worse in slow motion. The penalty was really not clear cut. Both these incidents yet again highlights the failure of VAR's only purpose for existing.

Still created a great atmosphere and hats off to the players for a great performance. Valery made a mistake but it's a bit harsh to lay into himas he has only just come back. PEH and JWP played out of their skins. CA and MA really need to learn how to play together. Why does obafemi always Look to lay the ball off when he is brought on for his speed.

Alex McCarthy redeems himself.

Irritating game, hopefully this fires us back up.
2


EvertonSaint added 08:43 - Mar 8

According to the Sunday Times, Saints are up for sale...approx £250M
1


saintpete01 added 10:33 - Mar 8

Re Everton saint
Thank god I hope this is true
Our no show rudderless no vision chairman owning saints as trophy only
Adios
0


saintpete01 added 10:33 - Mar 8

Re Everton saint
Thank god I hope this is true
Our no show rudderless no vision chairman owning saints as trophy only
Adios
0


codge added 23:15 - Jun 19

One thing we still need help in defense for sure at right back Valery did nothing to impress that he is the answer, and we still look like we need help in the center of defense.Going forward we did a good job and looked like the team was up for it today, overall was a good result but some of the same issues at the back look like they need to be fixed.Coys.
2


Saintsforeverj added 23:36 - Jun 19

Excellent performance. Quietly optimistic that Ralph really is the right man to bring some relative success to us, despite the restraints. But it's true, like others have said, we really could do with finding a gem in defence. Although I thought Stephens had a good game.
4


Cjay80 added 23:55 - Jun 19

I thought Hoibjerg had an absolute shocker. He looked like he was playing "the ball is lava". Too quick to give it to someone else and gave away possession far too much. How on earth we'll get £35m for him I have no idea and more so how deluded is he to think he's a top 6 quality player? I'd drop him and play Smallbone for the rest of the season. Obafemi was ineffective, Valery looked out of his depth which is a shame because I rate him. I'd have liked to see Tella on earlier, he looked hungry, as did Boufal.
Great 3 points, great GOALS, great captains performance by JWP. and so pleased to finally see the Saints back on the pitch.
3


SaintPaulVW added 08:01 - Jun 20

After an initial flurry, Norwich were there for the taking and to our credit, we took them.

Redmond looks sharp, Stephens made a great run out of defence. Ings and Armstrong after a a bit of game time could be really scary. Ward Prowse earned his armband.

Unsurprisingly we looked fairly disjointed in attack. Around the box though enough individual quality showed to convert a good percentage of our chances.

Coyr. Great start now the top half beckons!
3


I_would added 12:55 - Jun 20

Ward Prowse started his Captaincy with one kick.
-2


TimSaint added 17:03 - Jun 20

A great performance from nearly everyone in the end, despite the poor start in the opening 10 mins. Once the cobwebs were dusted off and we got back into our groove, we played some excellent stuff at times and could/should have had a few more.

Will take that result away from home any day and we are currently joint top with City in the re-start league !! Come On !!
2


Lazz added 18:22 - Jun 20

We got a win love it
3


KriSaint added 21:24 - Jun 20

Surprisingly easy win I thought. Ralph got the starting 11 right. The team looked well balanced, and I´m really pleased to see Armstrong earning a deserved starting place. He has a good football understanding and an eye for goal and played well playing between our central midfield and our front players..
Bertrand has increased his level and looks more committed.
Obafemi might be no. 2 after Long and he clearly needs more experience, but he did make some good runs and create space and got both an assist and a half-assist and will gradually improve, I´m convinced.
Ingsy looked sharp and fit.
JWP captained ok. Redmond is an important counter attack player for us, and he proved that again today. Solid, troubleless display from our central defence and an easy day at the office for our goalkeeper. Quiet games from Valery and Hojbjerg, but decent performances throughout the team.
12 points from the next four fixtures (why not?) and life as a Saints supporter will be great again.
COYS.
2


snanker added 00:44 - Jun 21

Ah welcome back, Capt. legs it and we manage the quintessential R's result of course !! I've you missed you angst !!
0


Harbour added 11:20 - Jun 21

Awful team clearly rusty felt like pre season game did not help stream dropped 4. Times including all of ET. Stream appeared to be 30 seconds behind as my phone pinged up the goal before I saw it on my laptop. Let’s get the remaining 8 games out of the way and hope for proper football in front of crowds come the autumn.
0


jewsonjack added 17:43 - Jun 27

George byers-4
Jordan Garrick-1
0


I_would added 12:04 - Jul 6

Fantastic performance, actually pressed which made all the difference, and managed a win against quality opposition with 10 men. (Prowse contributed absolutely f*** all).
-5


Sadoldgit added 12:13 - Jul 6

A great team performance. Everybody pulled together and put in a shift. Such a change from that dreadful Leicester performance. Well done to Ralph and the squad for turning things around.
9


FaroSaint added 13:13 - Jul 6

Really great team performance the best for 3 years
6


KriSaint added 14:37 - Jul 6

Perfect formation, pressing, defending and counter attacking performance vs a very, very good team.
I was worried about Ings, with all his heroic running, getting a muscle injury after an hour, but Ralph did right in not substituting him.
I was also worried about Romeu playing the whole second half on a yellow card, but whose head cleared De Bruynes last gasp free kick, which was clearly a good kick of the ball, headed for goal? Romeus head :-D

Very, very well done to all the players and Ralph and with Adams´ great winner, this was a fantastic match to watch. Never forgotten.
4


I_would added 15:02 - Jul 6

It wasn't a fantastic match to watch, we were being battered for 90 minutes and if Pep hadn't been so arrogant to leave De Bruyne and Foden on the bench to rest them it might have been a different story. Our 'Captain's' performance was particularly forgettable, just jogged aimlessly as usual, didn't contribute a thing.
-10


Sadoldgit added 17:12 - Jul 6

We weren’t battered for 90 minutes. We played like an away side in the first half and did well. The second half was mostly one way traffic but that was 45 minutes, not 90. Our captain put in a decent shift as did everyone. City are a quality team. To take three points off them was an excellent achievement given how poor we were not so long ago.
6


Cjay80 added 17:30 - Jul 6

I thought the Watford game was excellent attacking football, this game was 100% solid defending. Every player was fantastic. They defended as though it was the last day of the season and we needed 3 points to stay up. So proud. JWP was incredible in his effort and leadership (not sure what game you watched I_would), Ings was absolutely everywhere getting stuck in, toss up for MotM for me between KWP, Stephens, Romeu or McCarthy.
This was the proudest performance I have seen since we beat Inter Milan. Chuffed to bits that Che got off the mark by exploiting the sweeper-keeper system.
4


Badlands added 08:54 - Jul 7

I see Routs was marked down again despite being the only player showing any level of creativity!
7.3 for Guehi ... cobblers - a decent first half after having little to do.
Gallagher 5.4 for what exactly?6.7 and 6.4 for Brewster and Ayew!!!!
0


I_would added 12:04 - Jul 10

JWP lost us 2 points on the pen whilst jogging around aimlessly as usual. We were out of puff in the second half and the manager should be pacing the play and making better subs than he did.
1


SaintPaulVW added 13:12 - Jul 10

Another great performance from KWP. He seems to be growing in confidence.

JWP had a good game but overshadowed by missing the penalty. Romeu is back to his brick wall days

Armstrong and Ings are really working well together.
3


KriSaint added 14:21 - Jul 10

Another good performance by Saints - unlucky not to take all 3 points. Admittedly there was no penalty, but I can not for the world understand why Ingsy didn´t get to take the pen to help him reach 20 goals.
Evertons goal was, admittedly, very good, I just feel a little unlucky that McC didn´t manage to block the shot and prevent the goal (from one of the least nice PL players), because he almost did....
2 minutes of added time was at least 4 minutes too less, and we had momentum, also a little disappointing.

With Man. Utds. questionable defensive midfield outfit and our well-oiled one, I think we can nick something at Old Trafford; both teams in good form, I know.
It depends on how well our defense and keeper will do.
3 points there and we can easily end up in the top 10, which would be very satisfactory.
I hope Bruno Fernandes feels very ashamed for how ridiculously he stole that penalty vs Villa, and that it will karmicly affect his game negatively vs us.

Come on you Saints <3
2


KilkennySaint added 14:57 - Jul 10

Great performance by the team, felt we should have won this game. I would like to see Ralph make a few substitutes earlier in games, think we ran out of steam near the end. Been really impressed with Armstrong this year, his really brings an attacking edge to the team.
4


Sadoldgit added 15:39 - Jul 10

It was never a penalty in the first place but the game would have been entirely different if that had gone in so it can’t be said that it cost us 2 points. Conceding a goal cost us 2 points. We played Everton off the park in the first half but they were always going to regroup in the second half. We look so much better than the team that collapsed against Leicester and I thought JWP had a decent game. If we sign KWP we are only 2 more quality signings away from having a really strong squad next season.
2


QPR_Donald added 13:55 - Jul 12

Where's Clarke - 7
1


SaintPaulVW added 07:03 - Jul 14

Great game. A draw that felt like a win.

On top to start off with then MU came roaring back. We then played ourselves back into it and took the game to them. They didn't like it up 'em!

COYS!

7


Flamingbankers added 07:54 - Jul 14

Played well pressing forward in first 15 minutes. Didn't cope defensively with Utd sweeping moves forward down the left for next 15. KWP all at sea, left hand side targeted and exposed. McCarthy, second game running, excellent performance. Regained composure in second- Romeu - a rock but Ings was well marshalled. Well deserved draw, looked as if we were in control for most of second half. Bertrand Saints best player for me - kept Greenwood quiet - twice in three matches. Hallelujah, we scored from a corner.
8


I_would added 09:30 - Jul 14

What is JWP's position?
Did he mark anyone?
Did he complete a tackle? (without bear hugs).
Is he supposed to be a holding mf?
Is he an attacking mf?

Let me save you some time. Don't know. No. No. Don't know. Don't know.

I see he actually managed to get a cross on one of our bonces for a change, that's something I suppose.
-4


I_would added 09:32 - Jul 14

The rest of the team made up for him and did a good job despite his aimless jogging.
-3


allsaint54 added 10:02 - Jul 14

What does JWP offer apart from backwards & sideways passing? Give Smallbone a chance in his place. But no you can't drop or sub JWP.
-3


I_would added 10:42 - Jul 14

I never understood how he got in front of Reed, especially as Prowse is a skate.
-3


KriSaint added 11:26 - Jul 14

Another good game. Unfortunate that we give them two half-soft goals. I believe we did enough to win.
I´m so glad to see McCarthy have improved. He punches crosses away again and again, stops shots from distance and looks better in one-on-one situations and just looks quite confident! I always liked him to be honest, but admit that he has lacked something when it comes to - among other things - crosses.
His left arm save after 10 minutes vs Martial (bad, bad ball loss from JWP) was SO important and SO skillful.
Adams still has plenty to learn, obviously. His first touch a.o.t. But I like him.
Armstrong is just awesome. Ings likewise.
KWP struggled a little bit when they scored both goals, but still like him a lot.
Romeu is a rock.
Bertrand loves to play football again and shows his class.. I credit Ralph for that.
Redmond should have scored 5-10 minutes from time but for a worldy from De Gea. Played well, did Redmond, although I still don´t always understand his choices with the ball.
Stephens & Bednarek did well,
and great use of his body, when Michael 'the middlewight boxer' equalilized. Very happy for him, scoring such a great equalizer 6 minutes into injury time - at Old effing Trafford.

Well done Saints!
5


TimSaint added 13:05 - Jul 14


More Possession
More Shots
More Shots On Target
More Corners

We were the away team against a top 5 team that will probably qualify for the Champions League. Well done lads.
54 Points is now possible !!

NB - Nick, Man Utd made 4 subs, not that it really matters, but Williams and McTominay also came on.
2


Badlands added 13:54 - Jul 14

Given the quality of the game an average rating of 6.7 is pathetic.
4.8 for Mulder who had minutes and did nothing wrong! Bizarre.
0


KriSaint added 15:09 - Jul 14

B.t.w. thanks for another good article, Nick; my Man of the Match goes to Danny Ings for his incredible work rate all over the pitch, control of the ball, team spirit enhancement, danger in both build-up and finishing and his confidence and cleverness. The man remarkably rarely loses the ball, and he is on the ball quite a lot every game!
Also I´d like to emphasize: great substitution by Ralph, bringing on Obafemi and asking Smallbone to play in Romeus no. 6 position - as defensive midfielder, where Will did very well in his running, positioning and ball control in our so important and so well-rehearsed/trained/executed short passing up the field. Very enjoyable to watch how cool, brave and exciting a team we have actually become. I credit Ralph for that , of course. So happy that he extended his contract with us for four years. Way to go, Ralph. He is an exciting manager, and I believe the players respect and like him a lot.
As far as Smallbone is concerned, he has been added to the A squad to stay there, it looks. Very useful squad player with a lot af potential, and for his age he certainly always looks calm, cool and collected.
If Adams improves after having tasted PL football for one season...., because he needs to, to help Ings and the team scoring goals, I don´t really think we need to be desperate to bring in more than one or two, maximum three new players in the transfer window (depending on any departing Saints players, of course and depending on whether Ralph wellcomes back a player like Harrison Reed, who has done very well at Fulham). As always a lot of other "ifs", of course, but I am delighted with the way we have improved, and I´m sure I share this feeling and positivism with a lot of you guys, fellow Saints fans.
1


SanMarco added 23:21 - Jul 16

Our epic battle with Everton for 12th place is going to go to the wire...
4


I_would added 23:24 - Jul 16

Lucky to get a point with the starting 11. Ward Prowse let us down again with missed chances. Dead ball specialist? Hojbjerg is a joke.
5


codge added 00:22 - Jul 17

What a let down from the last few games,it looked like we were back to our worst in the first half. Thankful that we played a second half the first was awful.Have to give the boys credit to turn it around in the second half,Hojbjerg will not be missed by me and we definitely still need help in defense as there goal we were all sixes and sevens.Stoll we have had a great run but this was one that got away.Coyr.
6


mattthelegend added 07:18 - Jul 17

Well at least Jack gets a break this game, first half all over the place to be expected with the changes but got into it for the last 10 minutes, second half was brilliant to watch, chance after chance now I know how Man City must have felt after last week. KWP was great going forward admittedly against lesser opposition, Vokins had a decent game, Ings isn’t human runs and runs and I thought Adams did well his work rate was excellent maybe needs to gamble in the box more.
8


TimSaint added 13:39 - Jul 17

I said in the preview that we should start with our strongest side and then rest players as needed in the 2nd half.

The worst 1st half display I have seen in ages. Why make so many changes in what is already our achilles heel, our defence. Vest and Bed switched off or were asleep for the goal and the whole team's 1st half performance was pedestrian at best. City had put 5 past them in their previous match, but we were content to pass it around and rarely threaten.

2nd half was much better and we created enough to win it and probably should have done if it wasn't for some good blocks and saves and some bad misses. But still somehow managed to give Brighton chances to win it through errors and ball watching.

Vest was unlucky with that 35 yard effort - great save.
On another night, Adams could have had a hat trick.
Danny Ings really is our King.
2


KilkennySaint added 15:29 - Jul 17

Much better second half, had so many chances to win it. Good to see some of the youngsters getting a start, was really impressed with Vokins, he was a threat up the left and had a great strike on goal. I thought Smallbone had a quite game but i noticed he put in a couple of great crosses into the box. Think Hojbjerg has played his last game for us.
1


janecook added 10:16 - Jul 18

Michael Obafemi done well in the players ratings I think he was lucky to get more than 2.
0


I_would added 20:46 - Jul 19

Vest shouldn't be there. JWP does nowt.
-2


saintpete01 added 20:18 - Jul 26

We have our own Gurd muller in che Adams Das Bomber
He has all the qualities of that great striker
We were lucky the game wasn’t dead and burried by half time
But a great second half team performance there was only one team in it
Great to finish with a win and in our new kit happy days
4


halftimeorange added 20:25 - Jul 26

Thankfully, Sheff Utd ran out of steam and we coasted home but, there were worrying moments with Walker-Peters, McCarthy and, comically Vestergaard being eased off the ball by Billy sharp. Talk about david and Goliath!. Sorry but Jannik is simply too much of a carthorse for the EPL. Danny Ings seemed off the pace at times but, what I really didn't get was that when we were all over them at the end everyone seemed content to pass around in the middle of the park instead of setting Danny up for a golden boot goal. Even Danny spurned a couple of half chances to shoot. What was that all about? A good end to a chaotic season.
6


saintpete01 added 21:02 - Jul 26

Yes Jv looked like he was Towing the Titanic to catch billy sharp
5


allsaint54 added 21:13 - Jul 26

Ralph starts with with Vestergaard to see if he's worth keeping for next season. After 45 min he proved he can't defend & can be outpaced by Billy Sharp who's not exactly quick. Great to see Che score 2 great goals, hopefully this will boost his confidence for next season. Redders put in in one of his best performances but JWP still flatters to deceive.
8


SanMarco added 21:51 - Jul 26

Yes - poor old JV. I know Billy Sharp is a sprightly youngster but...

Good to finish with a win and we came 3rd in the table since the restart. Just need to sort the home form out and could be a good season next year.
3


I_would added 22:03 - Jul 26

What position does JWP play, any ideas? He was either No9, CB, No 10 or RB, I'm not sure. What a load of well drilled mechanical boorfest SU are. I think we're a bit better overall than them and we'd better buy Peters (MOM for me).
2


FaroSaint added 23:19 - Jul 26

Great win for the final game though a very nervous error strewn first half especially from JV . Thought JWP had a great game controlling the midfield with superb crosses into the box . Super Captain bodes well for the new season . OR NR and KWP all had a good game
So pleased for Che, more of the same please next season !!! COYS
1


Flamingbankers added 09:14 - Jul 27

Poor first-half , Vesters turning and footwork like the Titanic (played OK 2nd). Defence gave the ball away too much with flanks looking vulnerable. Much the better team in second-half. Che Adams with quick feet and merciless finishing gets his just desserts. MOM, the rock, Romeu.
5


KriSaint added 12:23 - Jul 27

Great new kit. Thanks to Alex McCarthy for some really important saves before we got to dominate the match completely. Alex has improved and actually punches crosses away on a regular basis now.
Danny "Silverboot" Ings scored his twenty-second goal and Adams got a brace. Romeu is back at his best and we won´t miss Højbjerg. Great to see - for at least the second time - Obafemi brought on as a THIRD striker and Smallbone fill in well as a no. 6, when Romeu is sacrificed to give room for the third centerforward. Kyle WP has convinced me. He has made us stronger. He is quick, brave and clever. BUY, please.
JWP is our new captain - get over it, "I_Would" <3 - and Armstrong is my "most improved player of the season", whereas Danny "SIlverboot" MachineIngs is my player of the year - beating his personal goal tally for a season - and being our iconic top scorer.
8 academy players in the match squad for the last match, makes me proud, and I like Ralps very much.
2 or 3 signings and we can do really well next season, where the top 6 teams will have too many games in too short a time and get heavy legs - which , hopefully, gives us a chance to power upwards in the table.
I look forward to next season with, hopefully, good cup runs and a top 7 end position in the table.

Thanks to my fellow Saints fans and friends for connecting on this platform and thanks to Nick for good articles.
Thanks to John Bailey and Tom for their legendary Saints FC Podcasts and to the lad behind league1minus10blogspot.com for fantastic match reports.

Best wishes
Kristian (KriSaint), 52-year old GP & sports medicine doctor
and (Danish) Saints supporter since 1979/1980.
1


TimSaint added 13:26 - Jul 27

Frustrating 1st half with Saints seemingly already on the beach - particularly our Great Dane. (great as in size, not ability !!) Some woeful defending (mostly unforced errors), combined with poor finishing from the visitors and good goalkeeping meant we only went into the break 1-0 down.

Cue the hairdryer at half time and we looked a decent side in the 2nd half. We wanted it more and the cream came to the top, despite Sheff U's attempts to waste time, frustrate and of course kick lumps out of us.

Pleased that Che got his goals, but deep down, would have preferred Ings to have scored them, to knock Vardy off his perch. Still 2nd place in the scoring charts is great for Ings and for Saints.

Che will no doubt wish the season wasn't stopping, but with him, Ings and indeed Oba all finding the net regularly, we have a decent attack - especially with the likes of Boufal and Djenepo to return. Just needs Long to figure out where the goal is !! :-)

A great end to the season and another double achieved (along with Villa, Norwich, Watford).

A few summer signings and a good clear out of the deadwood and we will be a decent team next season.
3


codge added 08:53 - Aug 10

What a let down from the last few games,it looked like we were back to our worst in the first half. Thankful that we played a second half the first was awful.Have to give the boys credit to turn it around in the second half,Hojbjerg will not be missed by me and we definitely still need help in defense as there goal we were all sixes and sevens.Stoll we have had a great run but this was one that got away.Coyr.
0


elliotthiago added 18:08 - Aug 19

Pleasantly, Chelsea is an absolutely durable gathering, and that I help them...They should basically focus on the game all in all parcel as they can for the most part when they might be playing at Liverpool's Stadium...Also, i'm trusting that Peter Cech would be back before the semi-finals https://www.buymoviejackets.co.uk/product-category/womens-jackets/
0


codge added 17:17 - Sep 12

Oh no same mistakes cost us Romeu gives the ball away poor coverage from Walker-Peters and Stephens left marking fresh air.We were unlucky there keeper making some solid saves but not enough and Romeu is not the answer either. Still hopefully we will learn from this Coyr.
-1


darthvader added 17:50 - Sep 12

We looked a little ponderous at times and Stretch Armstrong was deffinatly missed
2


I_would added 17:53 - Sep 12

Horrible to watch, a bit like a slow crash. We lost when Ralph wrote up the team sheet.
Not a good player on the pitch and looked dejected from the first minute. Desperately need all new midfield. Prowsey didn't do a thing and is not a dead ball specialist and Romeu and Stephens and Vestergaard are a liability. Miles too negative and zero confidence.
-1


I_would added 18:01 - Sep 12

Horrible to watch, a bit like a slow crash. We lost when Ralph wrote up the team sheet.
Not a good player on the pitch and looked dejected from the first minute. Desperately need all new midfield. Prowsey didn't do a thing and is not a dead ball specialist and Romeu and Stephens and Vestergaard are a liability. Miles too negative and zero confidence.
-2


I_would added 18:02 - Sep 12

I heard that I'll have half.
0


dawlishdale added 18:43 - Sep 12

An awful opening match brought home the realisation that we are a long long way short of having a competitive squad for life in L1 this season, and we would probably struggle in the North West Counties with the line up we saw today.

Baffling tactics and several below par performances as good as gifted a weakened Swindon team the easiest 3 points they will ever get.
0


KarlHRummenigge added 19:32 - Sep 12

plenty of positives, team 'forming' before 'storming' when we get an out and out CF/fox in the box
0


TimSaint added 20:34 - Sep 12

We showed no urgency for an equaliser, even in the 2nd half - in a game we should have been looking to not only equalise, but go on to win.

Too many players weren't involved enough today and some of those that were, didn't do themselves any favours.

Redmond and Smallbone were noticeably quiet and as a result, the front 2 got no service.

Romeu gave the ball away far too much (a bit like PEH) and put our defence under unnecessary pressure far too often - including for the goal.

Djenepo did nothing but should, like Long, have had longer to impress.

We didn't really create much / enough, but the 2 decent chances we had were well saved. JWP needs to practice his free kicks.

Vest did well with some long balls and headers, nearly getting an assist, but was awful at playing a high defensive line (no pace) and made a real mess when McCarthy stupidly passed to him near the end.

Palace could probably have gone up a gear if needed, so we disappointingly didn't deserve anything from the game.

Would Armstrong have made a difference ? Perhaps, but we will never know.

Still need 2 more in at least and some competition for places to keep them sharp
1


Peterx added 06:22 - Sep 13

Southampton lacked spark and Crystal Palace didn't come to play. Seriously missing the work effort of Armstrong. Romeu and Redmond had one of their worst games in a Saints shirt. Would have been totally different if we had scored first but we did not. Teeth pulling stuff, but also equally glad I'm not a Palace supporter and would have to watch them every week. The Roller Coaster of being a Saints fan starts again.
4


mattthelegend added 08:59 - Sep 13

Learnt 2 things from that game 1) We have made teams notice us as Palace showed us respect and played like the away team, 2) we still can’t break down teams who sit back in numbers.
1


MRHALL93 added 10:10 - Sep 13

We've unlocked our biggest problem on the first game of the season. We cannot break down organised teams who "park the bus". Palace sat back and defended virtually for 90 minutes and barely passed the ball around. And that suited them, there were a few times they tried to play out from the back and we looked sharp with our high press.

I think the tactics were just wrong and left us vulnerable. You can see why Redmond and Smallbone didn't really get into the game, they were coming inside to bring palaces full backs in, to create space for our full backs get forward and receive the cross field pass. This leaves two problems, when they get the ball they have no support and if we lose the ball, we're vulnerable to being countered. Also, leaving our slow CB's so high up the pitch meant it was so easy for Palace, who didn't even play very well. Wilfred Zaha could've scored a hat trick because of this and he was barely in the game.

As for individual performances, Romeu isn't a good midfielder or passer of the ball. He must have given the ball away 4/5 times in dangerous places (one which lead to the goal), I even recall him not even looking where he was passing it for one of the goals. Redmond wasn't great, he doesn't really bring anything to the team. I think this needs to be a make a break season for him. He might have the odd 8/10 game but more often then not he's a 5/10. Very wasteful, his final ball is awful and so is his finishing. Ings and Adam's were very quiet up top. Adam's did a good job at holding the ball up and bringing others into the game. Credit to Guaita for making some very important saves.

I don't think that our best players being away on the international break for 10 days before the match would've helped with preparations.
0


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