being a Southend fan of many years, did no one else see a Webby type performance yesterday. We were fair more direct that we have been this season, getting the ball forward at every opportunity. We did not play about with the ball at the back and got the ball out the last third as quickly as we could. we also created more chances and threats yesterday than we have for majority of the season.
Yes, we said the same where we sit, much more direct and it worked for the majority of the players, especially in midfield. Now I have a confession, I didn't see three of the goals so I can't comment too much! The only one I saw was Moussa's, which I thought was taken well and was very timely.
As to the players, for the reason above, I don't think I can rate them. I know there was just complete disbelief at both Carlisle's goals. Mildy didn't do a lot else, still takes too long to clear the ball out sometimes - Macca was screaming to him for a quick punt at one stage during the second half but no, he waited for the target man, Vernon to be in position.
Franno, seemed quieter but perfectly composed, Scannell wandered a lot leaving him more exposed so he was busy.
Baldwin, love the guy, want him to stay.
Barrett, thought both bookings were harsh but the ref was a complete joke. Glad to see him on the score sheet.
Herd, good to see him back and playing with confidence, also with corner taking now part of his remit. Some variety made a lot of difference, love the Delap towel!!!
Scannell, yes, the lad did very well, but as mentioned he DID keep wandering (before the change) and made us far too narrow. Glad to see the energy concerns from Orient are now in the dim and distant past.
Macca, Barrett's sending off probably saved him from another one tbh. The ref had it in for him completely, how does a studded challenge on his thigh causing him to fall to the ground become a foul on the oppo player? The armband seemed to calm him, and he was galvanising the others with "****ing come on"s!!! Nearly set up a peach of a goal if Matty Paterson had put it away.
Grant, playing more defensive than last week, quieter but still influential.
Moussa, something you don't hear from me very often, but the lad did well. He and Scannell both benefitted yesterday from Grant and Macca being in the middle and it paid dividends. Now, please keep it up.
Vernon, don't understand how a striker with a pedigree like his is not doing better. Something hasn't clicked, and I wish it would. Want to see 4-3-3 Tuesday, him, Matty and Screech.
Paterson, looked stronger and more likely to score than Vernon, keep at it young man.
Sub: Sankofa for Paterson, a change as I think Screech was about to come on when Adam got sent off. Slotted in well and looked comfy enough. Be interested to see how Tilly plays it Tuesday.
Ref was dire, end of. I know I say it often but this one was absolutely shocking. I believe my tirade against him caused amusement to some of the non regulars sitting nearby!!! Short Man Syndrome personified.
TBV, well done on the Franno chant guys, didn't get the chance to see if or how he reacted but glad to hear it, and well done for the constant enthusiasm throughout, even when we went 2 nil down.
