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New boys point to a brighter future: Millwall 1 - 1 Brighton: Report
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Posted by David Snowball
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Saturday, August 29, 2009
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Patience is in short supply in football and it remains to be seen whether Russell Slade will be given the time he needs to mould a decent side.
In a battling performance at The New Den, there were signs that players he has brought in to the club could provide genuine good times ahead.
Liam Dickinson in particular looks to be a really exciting capture with, dare I say it, hints of the Zamora influence we saw earlier this decade.
He certainly has pace and strength, looks comfortable on the ball, and shows plenty of signs that he could perform at a higher level.
The most recent capture, Elliott Bennett, likewise displayed glimpses of a bright future as a pacy winger with ability to get past people and cross accurately.
He could be quite justifiably pleased with his contribution in what was only his second game, even though a horrible slice when put clean through by Dickinson's sublime pass was a disappointment.
Another significant thing to note from the 1-1 draw with Millwall was the quite amazing voluble craving for Gary Dicker.
After the central midfielder's impressive contribution as a substitute in the Stockport game, few could have expected him to start on the bench at Millwall.
And when Alan Navarro had extended treatment midway through the first half and then limped towards the touchline, Albion's supporters chorused "There's only one Gary Dicker" to let Slade know who they thought should have started.
They got their way when the second half got under way and Dicker duly obliged with a typically busy and energetic performance which will surely see him retain the shirt against Wycombe.
Albion got off to the worst of starts when one-time transfer target David Martin raided down Millwall's left wing and whipped in a hard and low cross which Jason Price converted from inside the six-yard box.
Moments later Michel Kuipers, back in goal following his suspension, kept Albion in it with a point-blank stop from Gary Alexander.
Andrew Whing started at right back, picked up a yellow card as Martin ran him ragged, and ended up swapping full back berths with stand-in left back Adam El-Abd to avoid an early bath.
But the former Coventry man was very lucky to stay on the pitch with a cynical block as Millwall broke from their own half. It was probably only the length of the passage of play that followed as Millwall marauded forward that enabled him to escape with a lengthy lecture rather than a red card.
Kuipers as well could easily have seen his second red card of the season when he quite obviously gathered a long ball outside the left side of his penalty area and quickly snatched it back into the safety zone. How the referee didn't see it was a mystery.
The major positive of the evening was Albion's equalising goal, Nicky Forster's bullet header from a delightful whipped-in cross from Adam Virgo going in off David Forde.
Millwall, who had bossed the first half, suddenly looked tired after their marathon League Cup game at West Ham on Tuesday but Albion failed to press home their upper hand which moments before Forster's goal had seen a neat chip from Dean Cox come back off the bar and Forster's follow-up header skim the post.
Dickinson might have done better squaring a ball to the unmarked sub Mark Wright in the closing stages but shot rather tamely instead and as the game drew to a close Millwall suddenly found a second wind, roared on by their fans, and Albion had James Tunnicliffe to thank for clearing near the goal-line.
But Albion could be satisfied with the point; it's not yet September, and there's plenty to build on.
Player ratings:
Kuipers - 8. Made two vital saves but could have picked up red card.
Whing - 5. Better second half but nightmare opening 45 minutes. Should have been sent off.
Virgo - 8. Towering performance and brilliant cross for Forster's goal.
Tunnicliffe - 7. Bit static at times but good goal-saving clearance at the death.
El-Abd - 7. Probably restored a bit of his confidence with a workmanlike contribution.
Bennett - 8. Showed a lot of promise and should have capped it with a goal.
Crofts - 7. Got through a huge amount of work which tends to go unnoticed.
Navarro - 5. Picked up an injury as Albion were under the cosh in the first half. Replaced at half time.
Cox - 7. Exquisite chip on to bar deserved a goal but not in the game enough.
Dickinson - 8. Tireless performance and a real handful for Millwall.
Forster - 8. Excellent goal and won a good share of flick-ons. Fitness is a worry.
Subs
Dicker - 8. Popular replacement for Navarro at half-time. At the heart of Albion's better 2nd half performance.
Hart - 5. Never really got into it after replacing Forster and made a worryingly wild challenge near the end that earned a yellow card.
Wright - Brief cameo in place of Cox. Needs to start.
By Nick TurrellLabels: League One, Millwall, Nick Turrell
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The Great Escape: Part 2! Bristol Rovers 1 - 2 Brighton & Hove Albion
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Posted by David Snowball
at
Wednesday, April 22, 2009
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Bristol Rovers 1 - 2 Brighton & Hove Albion
By Colin Snowball
What a great night last night. The transformation from the team we saw at MK and against Swindon is unbelievable. Who would ever of thought that Gary Hart would be our saviour?! He had a great game and, as you've probably seen, made both goals with great crosses.
Andrew’s header for the second was particularly impressive too, considering that "Footballer", "never" and "hole in my arse" are words contained in many phrases heard about him!
I hadn't rated Gary Dicker much before either but he impressed last night by being very calm in midfield and playing simple balls out of trouble whenever necessary.
Dean Cox went off with a bad injury before half time and judging by the way he hobbled onto the pitch at the end of the game, he won't be playing on Saturday.
Owusu was also injured towards the end but hopefully he isn't as bad as he's been a different player recently too.
I feel sorry for Craig Davies. He so badly needs a goal and you can tell that he wants to be loved. He came on as sub near the end but looked lacklustre and at the end came over to the fans but was largely ignored, probably due to the fact that Calvin Andrew had dived into the crowd and was being mobbed - not a bad reaction for a Palace player!
Hinsh got better as the game went on but at one point in the second half he slipped and went down holding his knee. You could tell by the look on his face and Tommy Elphick's reaction that he thought that he’d done his ligament again but after treatment he got up gingerly and hobbled on. I thought that it was a dead cert that he’d soon come off (El Abd was immediately warming up) but soon after he sprinted across the area to make a last gasp tackle to save a likely goal. I wouldn’t mind betting that he'll be back in the treatment room very soon, though.
Credit also to Adam Virgo who had a great game with Elphick in the back four (Borrowdale too, come to that) but Bob Booker made a special point of acclaiming him to the crowd at the end and he put in a number of crunching tackles. It really looked like it meant something to him which was great to see.
Having seen their goal again, it was a deflection that wrong footed Kuipers but apart from a couple of saves, he didn't have a lot to do, the defence doing a great job of protecting him and it always seemed to me that we were the more likely winners.
Credit all round then, except to my usual whipping boy Tommy Fraser, who, I think, just doesn't contribute enough but perhaps I'm missing something.
I see that there was nearly 700 Albion fans there. A great turn out and a brilliant night for us all. I really don’t believe that all of the plastic Premiership fans that you see everywhere can ever experience the emotions that we do on such occasions.
My voice has gone this morning from all of the singing! I'm off to Huddersfield on Saturday for more of the same!Labels: Bristol Rovers, Colin Snowball, League One
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Albion's Great Escape: Albion 3 Oldham 1
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Posted by David Snowball
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Sunday, April 19, 2009
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By Nick Turrell
Lloyd Owusu raised the non-existent Withdean roof with a gutsy two-goal contribution to keep Albion's Great Escape hopes alive.
Playing in tandem with the buzzing Gary Hart, who rolled back the years with the sort of performance many had not thought they would see again, Owusu took the man-of-the-match honours for his goalscoring but the award could easily have been shared between the two.
Owusu probably edged it for his assist for the opening goal - a neat cross to the far post for an unmarked Dean Cox to head home.
The Withdean faithful responded positively to the level of on-pitch urgency that's all-too-often been missing this season and really got behind the team as they totally dominated Oldham in the first half and deservedly went in 2-0 ahead courtesy of a rather fortunate pinball experience when Owusu's misplaced header bounced fortuitously off Crossley and back to him to net.
After witnessing the shocking collapse to Swindon at the start of the second half only seven days earlier, everyone was hoping the lesson had been learned.
But amazingly it didn't seem to have been. Albion, forced to replace Elphick with El Abd, looked jittery beyond belief at the back and after some harum scarum moments in which Kuipers failed to inspire confidence and Dicker was forced to clear off the line, Oldham pulled one back when El Abd let a long punt sail straight over his head and allowed Alessandra to glide past him with ease and bury the ball in the back of the net.
Fortunately, Oldham's defence was similarly generous almost immediately and Hart and Owusu combined to unlock the visitors defence a third time.
Apart from the injury to Elphick, the other black mark of the day was the sending off of Andrew Whing for a second bookable offence, although it appeared a harsh decision from a fussy referee (Steve Cook) who at times lost the plot - as well as struggling to rummage for his cards - as the already-booked right back gently toe-poked the ball away following a free kick award against him.
However, a welcome three points which were even more vital when news of results elsewhere came through.
I believe Albion need one more win and a draw so long as Crewe and Carlisle continue to falter.
Player ratings v Oldham
Kuipers 6. One quality stop but very edgy and loads of unnecessary dramatics.
Whing 7. Sending off spoilt his fine run of form which sees him likely to be named player of the season.
Virgo 6. Can't fault his application but didn't inspire confidence.
Eplhick 7. Played on bravely until half time despite receiving nasty thigh gash.
Borrowdale 8. Played another solid, key role.
Dicker 8. Probably best he's played; put himself about and tidied up effectively.
Fraser 6. Usual contribution: energetic but erratic. Subbed.
Loft 7. Best I've seen him play for Albion. A few misplaced passes but lots of energy and justified his selection.
Cox 9. A box of tricks and sealed a lively display with opening goal.
Hart 9. Wholehearted never-say-die performance; would have been top marks if he'd got on the scoresheet.
Owusu 9. Top contribution from the experienced striker. Can't do much more if he's hoping to earn a contract for next season. His goals could keep us up.
Subs
El Abd 4. At fault for Oldham's goal and looked like his confidence is completely shot.
Jarrett 7. Brought much-needed stability to central midfield as Fraser began to lose it.
Andrew. Took over from the tiring Owusu with just a few minutes left.Labels: League One, Nick Turrell, Oldham
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Slade lifts the Withdean gloom: Brighton 5 - 0 Yeovil
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Posted by David Snowball
at
Sunday, March 15, 2009
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Division One safety may still be Far Far Away but Mama Weer All Crazee Now after Slade began to lift the gloom around the Withdean.
Big, bright and bubbly Russell Slade has injected a new energy into the sagging Seagulls and against his old club Yeovil it all suddenly came good.
The resurgent Dean Cox had by far, far and away his best game of the season as he scored twice and had a hand in the other goals as rampant Brighton blitzed dismal Yeovil 5-0. It should have been that even more clinical-sounding 6-0 if only substitute Craig Davies hadn't blazed over a glorious chance at the death.
Returning skipper Nicky Forster also plundered two goals and left the arena with the score 3-0 to a highly-deserved standing ovation.
But even though sponsors' man-of-the-match Cox and Forster took the glory, it was a good all round team effort and mention should also be made of Dave Livermore's sound contribution at left back and Jason Jarrett's performance in midfield - in particular for his pass that set up the opening goal for Cox.
Lloyd Owusu also worked his socks off and deserved a goal for his battling display against his former team-mates.
Apparently he was well narked that substitute Glenn Murray grabbed the ball to take the penalty which made it 4-0 because he rather fancied scoring against his old club.
After two thirds of the season in which Albion's front two have either been out injured or under no competitive pressure in terms of their places, with the arrival of Owusu and Davies there is now genuine healthy competition which can only serve the club well in what is a difficult run-in.
Murray, back after a long absence through injury, looked lively during his brief run-out and might have added to the penalty, given when Yeovil player-boss Terry Skiverton handled a Cox cross.
Albion will be hoping this major-confidence booster will augur well for Tuesday's visit to the Bescot Stadium where Walsall astonishingly collapsed 0-5 to Bristol Rovers.
Nick TurrellLabels: League One, Nick Turrell, Yeovil
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Beeby booby blights Slade opener: Leyton Orient 2-1 Brighton
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Posted by David Snowball
at
Sunday, March 08, 2009
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Albion fans once had a lot to thank Richard Beeby for when he awarded the decisive penalty kick in the club's 2004 play-off final against Bristol City.
At Orient the same official was guilty of evening up a much-derided decision by awarding a soft penalty which gave the home side a totally undeserved route back into the game.
Albion, with five debutants in their line-up, totally dominated the first half at Brisbane Road and led just after a quarter of an hour when centre back Matt Heath prodded home a loose ball in the six-yard area after Orient's keeper Jamie Jones failed to grasp the ball.
It was all very comfortable for Brighton until shortly before half time the diminutive Al Bangura challenged for a high ball and caught an opponent with his trailing arm.
It didn't look malicious but with the Orient faithful baying for a red card, Beeby took his time before brandishing just a yellow card.
Straight from the resulting free kick, there was an innocuous challenge in the Albion penalty area which looked like a fairly routine clearance by Heath until the official stunned everyone by pointing to the penalty spot. It certainly felt like it was directly linked to righting the perceived wrong of the previous decision.
Orient's recently returned veteran goalscorer Scott McGleish stepped up to bury the spot kick past Brighton's new great Dane goalie and the momentum of the equaliser galvanised Orient to run out in the second half with a lot more determination.
It wasn't long before the crossbar was rattled by a McGleish shot and Albion generally were second best as the home side tried to press home their superiority.
The ponderous McLeod not surprisingly gave way to Seb Carole and to enable him to forage on the right, Tommy Fraser was withdrawn to be replaced by back-from-suspension David Livermore.
Unfortunately, with Craig Davies snatching at the few good chances that came his way and Lloyd Owusu appearing to struggle with a hamstring injury after an impressive earlier stint in which he won a fair number of headers, Albion never really looked like getting the hoped-for winner. Just when it seemed proceedings would peter out to a draw, Sean Thornton picked up the ball around the edge of the area and fired home an unstoppable winner with some aplomb.
There was no way back for Albion as Orient did a highly professional job of running down the clock.
Player ratings
Mikkel Andersen - looked a little edgy and stuck to his line when he needed to be a bit more commanding
Andrew Whing - familiar Whingy display; wholehearted and some impressive runs in support of more forward players. But passing was wasteful at times.
Matt Heath - commanding and eventful debut. Got on the scoresheet by being in the right place at the right time. Penalised harshly to hand Orient their equaliser.
Adam El Abd - another wholehearted display from the stand-in skipper. Didn't deserve to finish on the losing side.
Gary Borrowdale - tidy debut at left-back. One or two understandable communication issues.
Tommy Fraser - surprise inclusion wide right of the midfield four: it hasn't worked before and didn't work today. Substituted.
Al Bangura - energetic debut and showed good touches at times. Quite evident he hasn't played much recently but showed promise for the run-in.
Jason Jarrett - a bit of a frustrating afternoon for him and less effective after being booked for a cynical trip.
Kevin McLeod - can't work out what his problem is; he's got a sweet left foot but he looks like he's labouring. Unsurprisingly subbed - again.
Craig Davies - at times looked like he was posing a threat but seemed to lack a killer touch and wasted some good half chances.
Lloyd Owusu - looked like quite a handful and won a high percentage of high balls in his direction. Looked to be struggling with a hamstring pull towards the end.
Subs
Seb Carole - never really got into it.
David Livermore - good to see him back after suspension. Not an impact player, though. Had one header from edge of the area which was easily held.
By Nick TurrellLabels: League One, Leyton Orient, Nick Turrell
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Inexcusable dross! Brighton 0 - 1 Walsall
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Posted by David Snowball
at
Sunday, September 21, 2008
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When 11 players have just under an hour to try to beat nine there is no excuse for failure.
Albion's 1-0 capitulation to Walsall was nothing short of inept and culpability for the defeat ran throughout the team, but, equally, if the players weren't capable, what instructions were coming from the coaching staff?
It was blindingly obvious to those of us watching that Brighton just needed to stretch Walsall by getting players wide on both sides and in behind the two replacement full-backs.
As Brighton laid siege to Walsall's penalty area in the second half, there was little or no variation to any of the many crosses slung in - all came from the easy, deep angle - whether from Cox and Richards on the left or Hart, then Robinson, on the right.
In fact, the only truly decent chance came when Hart did manage to deliver a cross that cut straight across the back line rather than being angled forward, and Glenn Murray's susbsequent header unluckily hit the bar.
Every high ball lofted into the penalty area was a perfect gift for the giant Clayton Ince in Walsall's goal.It was just so simple for him.
Why was there no variation?
Micky Adams admitted in his post-match interview that the shortcomings he has been concerned about were all too evident - and perhaps the answer to the inept wing play lay in the fact that left-sided Kevin McLeod was out injured and right-sided Joe Anyinsah was suspended.
With the exception of the one cross mentioned above, Hart was certainly a very poor replacement on the right. His re-signing along with Mayo was obviously one of Adams' first mistakes. Robinson isn't a winger but at least he's got pace.
Nicky Forster has been tremendous but clearly wasn't fit, so why did he start?
Oh, yes, I've realised: his replacement was Jonny Dixon. Please, please can we cut our losses and just move him on. He clearly hasn't got it at this level, as was shown once again when he eventually came on as a substitute.
Adam Virgo is a centre back or perhaps a right back, but we've got a decent player in that position in Andrew Whing. Virgo does not have a good enough first touch to be either a central midfield player or a striker. His effort and workrate can't be faulted, but it's not enough if we want to progress.
What are Steve Thomson's attributes? Could someone please explain?
It is clear to me that Forster and Murray will score goals if they receive the right service but yesterday the midfield had insufficient quality in all four positions and the only alternative approach comes from hit-it-and-hope lumps forward from the back.
Frankly, it's depressing. And in a tough, economic climate, just not worth the hefty expense.Labels: League One, Nick Turrell, Walsall
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Match Report: Crewe 1 - 2 Brighton
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Posted by David Snowball
at
Monday, August 11, 2008
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It was a half decent performance yesterday but we weren't up against much to be honest. We started off well, pressing well up the pitch and getting lots of crosses into the box. Unfortunately, most of the play was coming down our right which meant that Cox planted most crosses straight onto the head of one of their defenders.
Although we had lots of the ball we weren't making many chances and Calvin Zola should have scored with an easy header from a free kick while our defence were still getting to know each other. Virgo was looking lost in midfield as he doesn't have quick enough feet or enough mobility to properly fill that position. However, the one plus that he does have is his height, especially when getting forward which, in the end, led to the first goal. Mickey Adams switched McLeod to the right and the first time he had a chance to get a decent cross in resulted in it going straight to Virgo who made no mistake.
My Crewe supporting mate was in their main stand and said he was right in line with Virgo and he reckoned he was off side but there were no complaints from the players and the goal stood. Virgo did improve as the game went on but largely because he was given time on the ball. Once he gets someone snapping at him all game (like Thomson did covering for him) then I feel that he will look out of his depth in midfield.
We went in at half time fully deserving the lead and continued after the break.
We were all over Crewe in the second half and hit the bar and post and had numerous scrambles in front of goal. Not getting a second goal looked like it may cost us and after they bought on Elding up front we started sitting back and letting Crewe play as we started to look a bit tired. Sure enough they got Calvin Zola through and he finished well past Kuipers who had had little to do other than punch out a few crosses.
The Crewe jinx looked like it would continue but Forster got away right at the end and gave their keeper no chance with a great left foot shot into the corner - cue rapturous scenes in the far corner of the ground.
New boys Hawkins and McLeod both looked like good acquisitions, Thomson had a good game in midfield as did Whing at the back and Foster up front.
We shouldn't get carried away as Crewe won't have much of a season if they play like that all the time but it was good to see an accomplished performance and gives a good start to the campaign.
Player Ratings
Kuipers - 6
Whing - 8
Elphick - 7
Hawkins - 8
Richards - 7
Cox - 6
Thomson - 9
Virgo - 7
McLeod - 8
Forster - 8
Murray - 7Labels: Colin Snowball, Crewe, League One
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Season Review 07-08
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Posted by David Snowball
at
Monday, May 05, 2008
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Brighton's nearly-but-not-quite seventh place finish to the 2007-08 season was, if we're all brutally honest, higher than most of us expected when the action got under way last August.
Considering the overall quality of the squad, it was a highly commendable place and, if there had been a bit more calmness and, at times, a more positive approach, a place in the play-offs could have been achieved.
A telling comment from Argus football reporter Andy Naylor in an article comparing the records of recent Albion managers summed up this first full season under Wilkins: "A little less caution and worrying about the opposition and he could emulate the achievements of Adams and Taylor."
All too often we would hear in match previews how it was going to be difficult against so-and-so because they've got quality in x, y and z areas. Surely psychologically it would be better for those things to go unsaid, and for the focus to be on how well Brighton players are performing and developing.
In hard facts, Brighton were two wins and a draw shy of a play-off place and it isn't difficult to look at certain games where the points went begging to see how the situation could have been reversed. Two points were dropped as far back as November when Albion were all over Walsall at Withdean but only got a draw.
The Boxing Day battering at Millwall was nothing short of a disgrace when there was clearly turmoil off the field. Only taking a point from Huddersfield at home was another disappointment. And defeat to relegation-bound Port Vale was inexcusable.
Where Wilkins does emerge with credit, though, is in achieving such a high finish considering that he had to re-build the side midway through the season.
The loss of four key players - Bas Savage, George O'Callaghan, Dean Hammond and Matt Richards - was unsettling at a time when the side was progressing well. Richards eventually came back but it took time for Steve Thomson to bed in and Hammond wasn't really properly replaced until the later arrival of Therry Racon on loan from Charlton.
Adam El-Abd proved his versatility with impressive performances in a number of positions but he doesn't have the flair of Hammond, Racon or O'Callaghan. Tommy Fraser can't be faulted for effort but his decision-making and lack of guile found the central midfield wanting when he was selected. The injury-plagued Paul Reid seemed to blow the limited chances he got to step into the breach.
The major positives of the season were the performances at the back of Tommy Elphick and Joel Lynch and up front of Nicky Forster, particularly as the partnership with Glenn Murray began to evolve. Dean Cox had bright moments but needs to be more consistent. After too long seeing Albion trying to fill the full back positions with central defenders, it was good to see specialist players in those places and the side were at their best when they had Andrew Whing on the right and Richards on the left.
The best addition to the team by a country mile was Ian Westlake, who, apart from a couple of below-par performances, showed why he has played at a higher level before now.
As it turned out, I think Brighton did well to get a £150,000 fee for Alex Revell: Murray has shown he is a better player and promises to score plenty of goals whereas Revell was only a sporadic contributor whose touch and movement was suspect. Savage had a curious knack of doing well for Brighton but I would doubt most people ever thought he was a genuine long-term solution up front.
Michel Kuipers is to be congratulated for being ever-present but, like several managers before him, one senses that Wilkins would like to have another quality option for the number one shirt.
As has been detailed and debated elsewhere, there are clearly a number of squad players who are likely to be bidding farewell and, if Brighton want to move up to the next level next season, they will need to offload those average or below-average performers in order to afford better quality players.
If Richards can be persuaded to sign permanently, I believe the addition of a goalkeeper and right, central and left-sided midfielders will improve the squad sufficiently to make a decent challenge in 2008-09.
The main downside to making this happen is that one or two of the promising youngsters might have to be sold to fund such additions. It would seem the likeliest departure could be Elphick, and possibly Cox.
By Nick TurrellLabels: League One, News 08-09, Nick Turrell
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Match Report: Forster at the double to freeze out Swindon
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Posted by David Snowball
at
Sunday, March 23, 2008
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HARUM SCARUM Albion recovered from the shakiest of starts to overcome a
useful Swindon side on a freezing afternoon at Withdean.
Skipper and leading goalscorer Nicky Forster once again led by example with
two fine goals and new boy Therry Racon looked a busy class act in the
centre of midfield.
If the Frenchman signed on loan from Charlton on Thursday can reproduce this
sort of form until the end of the season, Albion's bid for the play-offs
could stay on course.
Quality in the engine room of the side has been missing for a while now -
principally since Dean Hammond's departure - but, in Racon, Albion have
unearthed a potential gem. He looked comfortable on the ball, competitive,
challenged well for the ball in the air, and passed it intelligently.
His stock rose even more with the Albion faithful when halfway through the
second half he discarded the gloves he had been wearing!
It's to be hoped that Glenn Murray can soon resume sharing the goalscoring
burden with Forster, who, by his own admission, often scores in clutches of
games rather than consistently. Right now, if Forster's supply dries up,
it's not clear where other goals might come from.
Murray continues to get into goalscoring positions but, after a series of
misses in recent games, his lack of cutting edge and frequency of being
caught offside are proving frustrating.
Swindon's giant goalkeeper, Brezovan, did pull off one terrific stop when
Murray powered in a header from a Cox cross, but the £300,000 man otherwise
flattered to deceive.
Swindon were very quick out of the blocks to take the game to Brighton and,
after several early scares, including a pinball style set of ricochets in
the Albion penalty area, it wasn't surprising the Robins went ahead when
Craig Easton glanced in a header from the resulting corner.
Thankfully the lead didn't last long. Forster was brought down out on the
right and then got up to guide a header past Brezovan from Dean Cox's
pinpoint free kick.
In the swirling wind, defending was clearly difficult and there were plenty
of chances at both ends although Albion came closest through the Murray
header and a decent effort from Steven Thomson, who also popped up in
defence to head off the Albion goal-line.
It was a foul on the lively Cox that led to Albion's winner. Awarded a free
kick 20 yards out, Forster and Ian Westlake each shaped to take it but it
was Forster who struck a delightful curling effort into the net off the far
post.
At moments like that, when considering Albion's usual disappointing efforts
from such set pieces, it's a wonder Forster hasn't been given that
responsibility before. Albion had 25 minutes to defend the single goal
margin, and it was nervy at times.
Then, as the fourth official indicated there were four minutes of added
time, a blizzard suddenly swept across the ground. But Albion, with Butters
thrown on in place of Cox to shore up the defence, managed to hold out.
Player ratings (out of 10):
Kuipers 7; Hart 7, Elphick 7, Lynch 8, Mayo 7; Cox 8, Thomson 7, Racon 9, Westlake 7; Murray 6, Forster 9.
By Nick TurrellLabels: League One, Nick Turrell, Swindon
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Top Performance Sinks Donny (Brighton 1 - 0 Doncaster)
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Posted by David Snowball
at
Saturday, March 15, 2008
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A superb Ian Westlake-inspired performance at rain-soaked Withdean put Albion within a point of the play-off places with a game in hand.
The on-loan Leeds midfielder was terrific against Doncaster in what was arguably Albion's best home display of the season.
Westlake caught the eye with one stunning volley turned round by Neil Sullivan in the first half and a superb bit of trickery out wide on the right in the second half. On that occasion, he burst into the box, shot for goal, Sullivan could only parry the ball straight to Glenn Murray and the former Leeds 'keeper made a quality second stop from Murray's header.
After weathering early Doncaster pressure, Albion changed their shape to cope with the visitors' fluent passing and then had to adjust again when Matt Richards went off injured after only 25 minutes.
Kerry Mayo came on to slot into his familiar left back berth and put in a terrific shift, possibly to the surprise of many.
Indeed it was Mayo's determination which led to the only goal of the game. He won the ball in the left midfield channel and released Nicky Forster for a run on goal. Forster burst into the penalty area and went tumbling down. The referee had no hesitation in awarding the spot kick although the protests from the Doncaster players were long and resulted in two bookings. Interviewed on SCR afterwards, Forster admitted there had been little contact.
But with the award made, Forster stepped up to take the penalty only to see Sullivan guess right and save his initial shot. Fortunately the ball rebounded nicely to Albion's no.9 who reacted quickest to slot it home.
Tommy Elphick and Joel Lynch did brilliantly at the back to repel everything Doncaster threw at them and Andrew Whing was on top form, snuffing out any potential threat from much-derided former Albion frontman Mark McCammon. Unfortunately, Whingy's enthusiasm once again got the better of him as the final minutes ticked away and the yellow card issued - one of many the referee brandished - means under the totting up rules he'll miss the games against Swindon and Forest.
The Withdean crowd really got behind the Albion in a way normally only seen at away games and Nicky Forster was warmly saluted when he gave way to Gary Hart in the final few minutes. Hart, though, squandered an unbelievably easy chance to seal the game within only a few seconds of entering the action. Cox set him up with an exquisite pass to beat the offside trap but Hart couldn't compose himself to control the ball and shoot and the chance went begging.
Sullivan then went upfield as Doncaster had a free kick in a dangerous position in the four minutes added time. There were bodies flying around everywhere and Sullivan appeared to try to punch the loose ball goalwards, which the referee missed. But the final whistle finally blew and a relieved crowd and team celebrated with some passion.
Albion (marks out of 10):
Kuipers 8; Whing 8, Elphick 8, Lynch 8, Richards 7 (sub Mayo 8); Cox 9, El-Abd 8, Thomson 7, Westlake 9; Murray 8, Forster 9 (sub Hart).
By Nick TurrellLabels: Doncaster, League One, Nick Turrell
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Match Report: Breathing through the Gills
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Posted by David Snowball
at
Wednesday, March 05, 2008
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BEATING Gillingham 4-2 to go three points off a play-off place with two games in hand should be a cause for celebration.
Looking at those cold hard facts makes good reading, but there was something about the manner of achieving it which wasn't entirely fulfilling.
Even reduced to ten men, Gillingham posed sufficient questions for a hesitant second half Albion side to raise concerns for up-coming games against much better teams.
That Gillingham scored a second and managed to hit the bar and a post in this period, and Albion's Glenn Murray missed three glorious openings to bolster the goal difference, perhaps demonstrate that the game could so easily have gone the way of some other lost opportunities we have witnessed this season.
But OK, that gripe over, let's take the positives out of the performance and hope securing three points sends the side to Carlisle on Saturday with a decent confidence boost.
At least Murray is getting into goalscoring situations and surely on Saturday he will want to prove his former employers wrong for letting him go by getting on the scoresheet.
Nicky Forster broke his own personal hoodoo of never having scored against a former club when he emphatically buried a penalty awarded for a foul by former Albion captain Danny Cullip only moments after the Gills were reduced to 10 men.
Then Stillie in the visitors' goal did brilliantly to push a Matt Richards free kick onto the post but unluckily for him the ball fell nicely for Adam El-Abd who smacked the ball in with all the aplomb of a seasoned striker.
Not to be outdone, fellow central defender Tommy Elphick took advantage of being left totally unmarked at a corner to nod home the simplest of goals to give Albion a 3-1 cushion at the break.
Gillingham's third minute 30-yard opener from Andrew Crofts was thoroughly negated by that point but Albion failed to build convincingly on their lead in the second half, even though Jake Robinson, once again on as a substitute for Dean Bowditch, fired in from close range when the keeper could only parry an Andrew Whing effort from a corner.
Gills manager Mark Stimson boldly went with three at the back, withdrawing Cullip at half time, in an effort to get back in the game despite the one-man disadvantage. They were to finish the game with only nine, though, when the no.19, already booked for a crude lunge through the back of Forster, stupidly kicked the ball away after conceding a free kick and was off for a second yellow.
Albion debutant Ian Westlake picked up a yellow card himself for a rather over-zealous tackle but generally the Leeds loanee could be content with his contribution, particularly as he hadn't even trained with the team. However, there were plenty of familiar faces from his time at Ipswich and there was a solid, sound performance from Matt Richards in particular.
Albion performance ratings out of 10: Kuipers 7; Whing 8, Elphick 7, El-Abd 9, Richards 8; Bowditch 6, Fraser 6, Martot 7, Westlake 8; Murray 7, Forster 8. Subs: Robinson (for Bowditch) 7; Mayo (for Westlake).
By Nick TurrellLabels: Gillingham, League One, Nick Turrell
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Murray's super strike wins it: Brighton 1-0 Oldham
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Posted by David Snowball
at
Sunday, February 24, 2008
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ALBION gave themselves and their nervy fans a welcome confidence-
booster with a well-deserved win over Oldham.
New £300,000 signing Glenn Murray scored the only goal of the game,
and what a superb strike it was.
Matt Richards made a fantastic surging run through the middle and
found Murray with a neat pass as he moved out to the left of the
penalty area.
Murray coolly drew Mark Crossley off his line, rounded him, and
slotted with supreme confidence from a tightish angle.
It was the former Rochdale hitman's fourth goal in four games for the
Albion and his all-round performance raised expectations for the run-
in to the end of the season.
Once again, Murray's partnership with Nicky Forster looked highly
promising and, although the experienced ex-Ipswich forward didn't
score, it really can only be a matter of time before his industry,
movement and skill is rewarded with a lucky break.
In truth he could - and maybe should - have had two goals as Albion
carved out plenty of chances.
Dean Bowditch, sporting a new shorn look, set him up with a delightful
threaded pass but Crossley was equal to Forster's effort. And a header
from a left wing cross went well over when you'd have fancied him to
hit the target.
It was Albion's failure to capitalise on their chances which was the
only downside of the afternoon. Oldham, to their credit, tried to get
on the scoresheet themselves and came very close on several occasions.
With Albion defenders still caught upfield following a corner, their
best effort came when Craig Davies found himself through one on one
with Michel Kuipers but a desperate last-ditch lunge by Tommy Fraser
was maybe just enough to make him send his shot well over. Davies
injured himself in the process and had to be replaced and Fraser also
limped off before half time. A word for his replacement, David Martot,
who slotted into the left central midfield berth very effectively and
was quickly into the thick of the action. It was the best I had seen
from him in an Albion shirt.
There were a few harum scarum moments in the Albion penalty area as
Oldham pushed for an equaliser, but Tommy Elphick and Adam El-Abd,
together with Michel Kuipers, managed to keep them at bay.
It was frustrating to see Dean Cox trying to wind down the clock by
playing keep-ball in the corner with 13 minutes still to play, but the
ploy, also picked up by Forster and substitute Jake Robinson (on for
Bowditch) had the desired effect.
When Forster was replaced by Lynch close to the end, he earned a warm
ovation as he left the field.
Albion had to wait a long time to secure his services but he has been
worth every penny of the £75,000 fee paid to Hull.
Optimists will look at the league table and note Albion are now only
seven points adrift of the play-off places with three games in hand.
Many more performances like this one and the dream may yet become a
reality. But there is still a long way to go and Albion have a tough
month ahead, starting with Orient at home next Saturday.
Player scores out of 10:
Kuipers 8;
Whing 7,
Elphick 8,
El-Abd 7,
Richards 8;
Bowditch 7,
Fraser 5,
Thomson 7,
Cox 8;
Murray 9,
Forster 8.
Subs:
Martot (for Fraser) 8,
Robinson (for Bowditch),
Lynch (for Forster).
Not used: Mayo, Hart.
By Nick TurrellLabels: League One, Nick Turrell, Oldham
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Match Report: Bore draw blow to play-off hopes (Brighton 0-0 Tranmere)
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Posted by David Snowball
at
Wednesday, February 13, 2008
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ALBION slipped to 16th place in League One as they once again squandered a chance to make a genuine claim for a play-off place.
The first of five consecutive home games saw a dull stalemate against a Tranmere Rovers side who got the point that they came for.
It was perhaps an all too predicatable result with very little Albion flair on display, other than one or two glimpses from a frustrated Nicky Forster.
Dean Wilkins clearly saw a different game to the fans when he commented on local radio afterwards that he felt Albion had played well, but didn't have enough quality in the final third.
He told the interviewer Albion had 13 chances - double Tranmere's efforts - yet he must have been watching a different game to the spectators because none of them witnessed that many efforts on goal.
Glenn Murray's second Withdean game was vastly more disappointing than his home debut: his rather lethargic display ultimately saw him withdrawn in favour of Gary Hart, who was equally ineffective.
It was good to see Dean Bowditch back in an Albion shirt and he threatened sporadically but perhaps not as convincingly as many would have hoped for.
He did lay one delightful throughball in to Forster, but the former Ipswich colleague had his shot saved and the follow-up deflected for a corner.
Albion defended far too deeply for much of the game and, once Murray departed, at times seemed to be playing with only one (Forster) up front, which was frustrating and disappointing to see from the home side.
With the crowd dropping to 4,700, Albion failed to convince those who bothered to turn up and it would not be a great surprise if the gate for next week's home game with Cheltenham drops below 4,000.
By Nick TurrellLabels: League One, Nick Turrell, Tranmere
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Match Report: Brighton 1 - 1 Huddersfield
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Posted by David Snowball
at
Sunday, January 20, 2008
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IT's good that Albion are still talking about the play-offs as a target for this season but anyone who witnessed Saturday's 1-1 draw at home to Huddersfield will surely have concluded that it is just a pipedream.
There needs to be a marked improvement throughout the whole set-up if Albion are going to get even close to a sniff of Wembley come May.
The harsh reality is that the current squad is simply not good enough to maintain a serious challenge.
A bit like the manager in his playing days in the heart of Brighton's midfield, there is a lot of pretty passing, some of which can be quite attractive to watch. But all too often it is all in vain because it seldom results in worthwhile chances on goal.
Against Huddersfield, with the exception of Elphick's header direct from a corner, and Forster's glaring miss when one on one with the 'keeper following Reid's slide-rule pass, there were only two real chances of note, both from set pieces, when Whing might have done better and the 'keeper saved comfortably.
Argus reporter Andy Naylor says the Albion desperately need wingers if they are going to mount a challenge, and he's probably right. Cox, playing on the left, forever has to cut back onto his right foot and put in a more predictable and less dangerous ball. From the right, we just don't have anyone who can reach the deadball line and whip in a dangerous cross.It makes all the approach play easier to defend.
Steve Thomson made a sound debut as the latest 'water carrier' - fetching the ball off the back four and spraying the ball around, and he may well be more effective when playing alongside Dean Hammond, who commands the centre of midfield more effectively than Reid.
But the Albion are still missing that strange spark that Bas Savage brought to the side. No-one is quite sure how he did it, but he was very effective playing alongside Forster in a way Alex Revell simply isn't. No-one could fault Revell for effort, but his touch is poor and so play is ponderous around him, while he is trying to bring the ball under control.
David Martot had probably his best game in an Albion shirt against Huddersfield - he certainly gets through more work than Robinson - but he too misses an important edge to give Albion a genuine dangerous thrust in important areas.
The mind-numbingly slow response from the management team in introducing substitutes continues to frustrate, with Nathan Elder once again given far too little time to make a difference in being introduced with 87 minutes on the clock.
Discounting the modest following from Yorkshire, the Albion crowd was down to just 5,153 on Saturday and many more performances like that will see the number fall easily short of 4,500 if there is nothing to play for.
At least two more signings before the window closes might make a difference - let's hope for everyone's sake they are made.Labels: Huddersfield Town, League One, Nick Turrell
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Delirious scenes of delight: Oldham 1 - 1 Brighton Match Report
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Posted by David Snowball
at
Sunday, January 13, 2008
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OUT of sorts captain Dean Hammond's ninth minute dismissal at Boundary Park threatened to make it a miserable afternoon for the 317 visiting Albion fans.
But a battling performance and some shrewd tactical changes by manager Dean Wilkins brought an unlikely reward with a last-gasp equaliser from substitute Nathan Elder.
The small but noisy Albion contingent behind Michel Kuipers' goal erupted in delight and the Dutch 'keeper himself was so fired up that he came mighty close to being arrested by the police for his pumped up celebrations.
It was hardly surprising there was such an outpouring of joy after reaping some reward at the end of a tough week for the Albion which had looked like getting tougher with that early sending off of Hammond.
The skipper couldn't really complain, though. With such a high focus on two-footed challenges right now, the referee had little option.
From there on in, huge credit has to go to the remaining 10, plus three subs, for the part they all played in coming away from this bleak corner of the North West with a point.
Not surprisingly, Wilkins rewarded Wes Fogden for his impressive debut at Swansea with a first league start at right back; Andrew Whing starting at left back in place of the injured Joel Lynch.
Unfortunately, once Oldham had a one-man advantage, they started to put Fogden under a lot of pressure, and Wilkins quickly changed things round, withdrawing the youngster and putting the experienced Kerry Mayo on at left back, with Whing reverting to the right.
I have never been a big fan of Mayo, but I have to take my hat off to a truly excellent professional performance. He used his experience to try to lessen the impact of Oldham's extra man through his passing and movement off the ball and credit to him for giving the manager a reminder he can still do a job.
The only one blemish to record was a horrendous full body check he did on Oldham goalscorer Lee Hughes which was rather like that assault Steve McQueen does on a German guard in The Great Escape just before 'Ives' gets shot. Astonishingly, Mayo didn't even get booked, let alone sent off.
Nicky Forster took the captain's armband once Hammond had walked and led by example with his lone running up front. As others have mentioned elsewhere, I think Forster would be a good candidate to keep the armband as he is a genuine leader on the field, constantly encouraging the youngsters. Especially now Hammond will miss three games for the automatic dismissal.
Adam El-Abd had one of his best ever games for the Albion with an assured display alongside Tommy Elphick.
Alex Revell worked hard when having to drop back to help the depleted Albion midfield and it was no surprise that Gary Hart took his place towards the end to ensure tired legs didn't spoil the tremendous effort in keeping Oldham's lead to only one goal.
Oldham hadn't won at home since the end of September last year, and you could see why. They appeared nervous and jittery and, apart from Hughes' clinically taken goal just before half-time, didn't look too likely to add to their score, save for a couple of efforts from set pieces.
The unlucky Nathan Elder, who must have splinters in his backside after the length of time he has spent on the bench, was thrown on with only five minutes remaining (minor moan, here.....why such a short time?.....surely it would be better to give him 15 mins at least). With the sign for added on time already having been brandished, Dean Cox whipped in a corner from the left. Forster got to it first and the ball cannoned off the bar. An almighty scramble ensued and the next we knew the ball was in the back of the net. It was difficult to see from our vantage point at the opposite end who had applied the finishing touch, but word quickly got round that it was Elder.
There was barely time for Oldham to restart the game before the ref blew the final whistle to cue delirious scenes of delight from the Albion faithful and players - and the skirmish between Kuipers and the stewards!
By Nick TurrellLabels: League One, Nick Turrell, Oldham
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Boxing Day Defeat and Turmoil: Millwall 3 - 0 Brighton...
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Posted by David Snowball
at
Thursday, December 27, 2007
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AFTER a gutless shambles of a defeat at Millwall it emerges there is contract conflict going on behind the scenes, which may account for such a lacklustre performance.
What remains undisputed, though, is that over 1,000 Albion fans made the journey to the New Den only to be rewarded with a truly awful display in which one of the journeymen strikers at this level was virtually handed on a plate one of the easiest hat-tricks you'll ever witness.
Even Millwall fans don't rate Gary Alexander, yet he managed to score twice with his head under no challenge from an Albion defender and then slotted a penalty after a lamentable attempted tackle by Michel Kuipers.
If Dean Wilkins had two choices to make with his team selection following Matt Richards' return to Ipswich, he surely made the wrong one in continuing to omit Guy Butters.
Adam El-Abd and Joel Lynch crumbled as easily as a Christmas shortbread in the centre of defence and, although Sam Rents busied himself reasonably well on his return to the side, he was nowhere to be seen when Bignot had time and space to pick out Alexander for the second goal.
Maybe O'Callaghan's post-match outburst was a sign of his personal frustration at such a poor performance, but do we really want to keep someone who is so ill-disciplined as to pick up a booking for a needless kicking-the-ball away only two games after he had returned from a three-game ban?
He has a touch of class and quality on the ball, but he's probably burned his boats now by criticising the running of the club.
Hammond looked out of sorts today as well, and, once again picked up a booking for a nasty challenge. But he was by no means alone. There were no players who emerged with any credit and, according to Wilkins, we should forgive and forget this performance as a blip.
That maybe easy for him to say but performances like this surely make the prospect of a play-off challenge remote, and, unless there is genuine investment on the playing side in January, the team will falter more and the crowds will dwindle further.
Player ratings:
Kuipers 5;
Whing 6,
El-Abd 4,
Lynch 4,
Rents 5;
Fraser 5,
Hammond 5,
O'Callaghan 4,
Robinson 5;
Savage 5,
Forster 4.
Subs:
Cox (for Fraser) 5,
Revell (for Savage) 4,
Martot (for Robinson) 4.
By Nick Turrell.Labels: League One, Millwall, Nick Turrell
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Oldham Report: A Rant!
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Posted by David Snowball
at
Tuesday, May 01, 2007
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Albion's catastrophic end to the season continued with yet another home defeat, this time to play-off candidates Oldham. Fortunately other results have gone our way and we will be playing league 1 football again next season; however one has to think that if the season had another 2 or 3 fixtures to go, we would be in serious trouble.
In my opinion, unless serious investment is put into the side for next season, this current terrible run may continue into next season and yet another relegation battle will begin. Dick Knight and the board will be made to look very foolish if at the beginning of next season, we make an indifferent start and are in the bottom four after 10-12 games. By giving an unproven manager a three-year contract they have certainly placed all their eggs in one basket. Knight has already set a precedent by sacking the more proven Mark McGhee and Bob Booker. Of course, the Albion's coaching team has been weakened and not replaced this season. With Dean White moved to assistant manager from head coach and Dean Wilkins to manager from first team coach at least two full-time positions need to be filled over the summer. Ian Chapman has come in on a part-time basis and I presume this will become permanent in the summer, however, if he is allowed to continue under the current circumstances next season I will be very disappointed. Dick Knight can talk about challenging at the top of the division but for a full-time professional club to employ a part-time first team coach is not adequate. How can he coach players to improve he doesn’t see the matches?
The game on Saturday for me very quickly became a blur among a sea of poor home performances. While Dean Cox scored another fantastic goal – and credit to him for his dedication and hard work – but it was not what the seagulls deserved.
Like Dean Wilkins has said after the match, Brighton was bullied all over the pitch. He talks about conditioning and strength building but for me it is not just physical but psychological as well. Next season, they must learn from experienced players like Sean Gregan, who without being dangerous or nasty was highly effective throughout. The team desperately lacks experience and this cannot be gained by players aged between 19 and 22 overnight. In my view, Brighton could do with 3 or 4, experienced campaigners at this level, who can offer leadership, strong tackling and decent aerial presence. Of course, a goal scorer is an absolute necessity. In Saturday’s performance the play in the final third was woeful as, on the brief occasions the ball was actually in the final third, the seagulls never looked like scoring and never seriously tested the Oldham 'keeper. The return of players such as: Oatway, Hinshelwood and Reid will help but question marks have to be held over at least two of these, Oatway and Hinshelwood; who seem to have been injured for a long time.
I never had the fortune to see Dean Wilkins play, as he was in his Albion pomp about the time I was born so I can't relate to the 'Wendy Wilkins' tag but, from the snippets of information I can find it seems that this tag could be cast over many of the current Albion side. Gifted players who are 'cultured' with the ball, but when the physical stuff kicks in, struggle to express themselves. Let’s face it, glamorous football might look alright but it won’t get you promoted in this division. Scunthorpe proved that when they came to Withdean. They played not fantastically but still came away with a point.
Wilkins has a long hard summer ahead and in my opinion has some big decisions to make about contracts and employing new players. It may seem harsh, but he must be ruthless and discard nostalgic reputations or previous glories and focus on what has to be done to improve next season. Otherwise he may not have a job by Christmas. By Rhys Turrell Labels: League One, Oldham, Rhys Turrell
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Bradford Match Report: "As the season comes to a painful and drawn-out end..."
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Posted by David Snowball
at
Wednesday, April 18, 2007
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As the season comes to a painful and drawn-out end, the Albion seems not to be in best shape heading into the summer break.
Saturday's defeat to lowly Bradford was the final insult to several fans who booed loudly and ferociously at full-time. Adam El-Abd clearly didn't appreciate the abuse and responded by viciously finger-jabbing and swearing towards the south stand. This came after a tepid second half, where an Alex Revell swivel and shot onto the crossbar provided the only entertainment. It was particularly surprising that the second half was so dismal as the home side played some decent stuff in the first period and moved the bal around with confidence and guile. However, as seems to have happened very frequently this season, Brighton couldn't make their superiority count and they were punished from a poorly defended corner. From then on the Bantams stuck 8 or so men behind the ball and the Albion's lack of creativity showed as they were unable to 'knock down the door'.
There were some good performances and some indifferent performances. Jake Robinson looked like he has started to return to some of his earlier season form and his running was dangerous. Guy Butters was fantastic at the back and proved how valuable he is to us despite his age. Sam Rents was a breath of fresh air at left back and provided attacking impetuous and excellent set piece distribution.
Tommy Fraser had a rather poor game, but appeared to be struggling with an injury. In any case, it was his poor loss of the ball that led to Bradford's goal scoring corner. Doug Loft, battling for a new contract, seemed to struggle with the vigour and physical battle in the middle of the park. His shooting was often wayward and appears to be struggling in his quest for a new contract.
The home supporters are owed a performance of quality and when promotion-chasing Oldham visit Withdean in the seasons penultimate match. If the seagulls lose without seriously entertaining I believe that season ticket renewals will fall dramatically with the dire performances that home supporters seem to be suffering week in, week out.
By Rhys TurrellLabels: Bradford, League One, Rhys Turrell
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Huddersfield Report: "180 minutes of football, no goals, no action, not much fun!"
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Posted by David Snowball
at
Wednesday, March 28, 2007
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180 minutes of football, no goals, no action, not much fun.
Not only did the Albion turn in a disappointing performance against Huddersfield at Withdean, but then the country's representatives put in an equally lacklustre show away in Israel.
This couldn't have been more of an opposite to last week's performance against the leaders Scunthorpe. Brighton were slack, naïve and negative. At least the resoloute defending of recent times was still evident and Joel Lynch in particular was faultless. His performances have returned to the high level of earlier this season, following a mid-season slump. However Dean Cox and Jake Robinson seem to have gone in the opposite direction. Both had off-days but should be complimented for continually working hard and wanting the ball - even if their standard of play was below par.
The only other moment of interest was the dismissal of veteran defender Frank Sinclair. He bought down the impressive El-Abd with a dragged leg that El-Abd seemed to lunge over a little too easily. But soon after El-Abd was pulled off and replaced by Nathan Elder in a tactical switch that at least of paper looked adventurous. El-Abd seemed bemused by the decision as did a few disgruntled south-standers who disagreed with manager Dean Wilkins.
If the seagulls do harbour serious hopes for promotion next season, then the consistency issue must be resolves. Our youngsters have had a tough season but must learn from their mistakes if they want to progress next year.
By Rhys TurrellLabels: Huddersfield Town, League One, Rhys Turrell
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Match Report: Scunthorpe: "A pretty enjoyable match with lots of promise for next season"
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Posted by David Snowball
at
Tuesday, March 20, 2007
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The seagulls picked up their third consecutive draw with this battling display against league leaders Scunthorpe. The Iron were unbeaten since September on the road prior to the game but failed to live up to the hype as they produced a pretty average performance. But that’s not to discredit the Albion who put in an excellent performance full of energy and passion.
Apart from a slightly shaky start, Guy Butters lead the defence with excellent control and ably assisted by Joel Lynch, kept the division’s leading marksman, Billy Sharp quiet, and he quickly vented his frustration on everyone and everything. So after 64 minutes of keeping Sharp quiet, his strike partner Jermaine Beckford turned in the box and coolly finished past Scott Flinders. To say it was against the run of play is huge understatement. The home team were dominant throughout with Cox raiding down the right flank and Bertin and Hammond dominating midfield throughout.
Both Bas Savage and Alex Revell worked hard and Savage was rewarded with a great move that he was able to finish with aplomb. The pair linked up well as Revell beat the defender in the air and knocked down for the big man to lift over the head of the Scunthorpe ‘keeper. The goal gave the seagulls a huge boost, having slightly lost their way after so cruelly conceding.
There was still time for more drama when Scunthorpe first looked like they may sneak a winner and then had a player sent off. Goal scorer Beckford managed to get through one – on – one with Flinders who saved well with his legs. Then with Albion launching a move through substitute Gatting, Matt Sparrow launched into a tackle that could easily have broken his leg. He was miles over the ball and seemingly had no intention of winning it.
A draw was by no means a fair result, admitted so by each manager, yet the Albion can be proud of their performances and points gathering over one of the division’s top sides. There is certainly a lot of promise for next season if the seagulls continue to perform like they did on Saturday. The spine of the team is starting to take shape with; Butters & Lynch – Bertin & Hammond and Bas Savage all playing well and working together successfully. In Bertin and Hammond, I believe we have found a central midfield partnership that can blossom into one of the best in the league. Bertin is happy to sit back and pass across the pitch while Hammond can run up and down and benefit both penalty areas. With 3-4 investments in the summer – A left back, right back, left winger and that elusive goal scorer – we will stand a good chance of challenging at the top.
So come on Dick Knight lets see, Dean Wilkins, Ian Chapman, Alexis Bertin and others gives contracts so they are not poached by championship sides.
Player ratings:
Flinders: Solid game, some peculiar drops of the ball but distribution was decent. 6
El –Abd: Was immense in the tackle and lead well from his unfamiliar left back spot. 8
Butters: Struggled with Sharp’s pace and movement early on, but recovered to dominate and lead the defence. 8
Lynch: Likewise to Butters, is improving with every game. 8
O’Ceaurill: Played adequately at full back – but again looked uncomfortable. 6
Bertin: Strong in the tackle, great passer, good positional play and experienced. Sign Him Up!!! 8
Hammond: Like Bertin, he won’t shirk a tackle and can run from box-to-box and be a menace in both. Has added goals to his game and always looks threatening. 8
Cox: Lively down the right side and showed great character with tackling and crossing. 7
Robinson: Made some good runs from deep and is useful as a third attacker as he very hard to pick up with his size and pace. 6
Savage: A constant thorn in the opposition with his awkward stature and strength. Took goal well and great dance moves. 8
Revell: No lack of endeavour but lacking match sharpness that will only come with games. Could do with a goal for his confidence. 6
Subs:
Gatting: Seemed a little odd that he came on instead of Elder and did little in the short time he was on. 5
RHYS TURRELLLabels: League One, Rhys Turrell, Scunthorpe
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Orient Report: "French connection key to Orient victory"
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Posted by David Snowball
at
Friday, February 16, 2007
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Report By: Nick Turrell
The signing of Alexis Bertin could well prove to be a master-stroke by Dean Wilkins.
While Bas Savage took all the plaudits for his performance against Orient, there was an unsung hero role for the Frenchman.
Bertin played as the holding player in a midfield diamond and did the job superbly, breaking up play and feeding quality passes through to his more advanced team-mates.
In only his second full game for the Seagulls, the man from Le Havre laid down a marker for how that role should be played and, no disrespect to Adam El-Abd, showed that it shouldn't just be about breaking up play, but creativity too.
His tireless running and chasing enabled Hammond and Ward to express themselves further forward and gave Cox the opportunity to cause havoc down the right side.
Hammond, of course, got in a great forward position in the penalty area to slot home the first goal, and it was Cox, latching on to Bertin's pass, who set up Savage for an emphatic finish to make it 2-0.
Big Bas did well to get on the end of another deep right wing cross to head back across goal for Joe Gatting to stab home from close range.
And substitute Elder neatly flicked on a raking punt forward into Cox's path for him to run through and notch the fourth.
One other performance of note came from Sam Rents, returning at left back, who has pace and dead ball precision which adds a dimension to the team.
A final word about Nick Ward. The QPR Aussie looks comfortable on the ball but is a bit of a leg dangler when it comes to anything physical. But if the new-look diamond can continue to play to his strengths, I'm sure it will be rewarded with goals.Labels: League One, Leyton Orient, Nick Turrell
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Brentford Report: "Out-thought, out-fought and outplayed"
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Posted by David Snowball
at
Sunday, February 11, 2007
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Report By: Rhys Turrell
The curse of Griffin Park did for Brighton again, as they succumbed to defeat in what was thoroughly disappointing for everyone involved with the club.
It must be hard for Dean Wilkins to take many positives out of the game, and in particular the first half, when the seagulls' performance was atrocious. They struggled to get a foothold in the game until around the 10 minute mark, but by then they could have already been a goal behind. A terrible back pass by Joe O'Cearuill left Kuipers stranded, who after a fortunate slip from the Brentford forward, horrendously miss kicked his clearance, which was equally scuffed by a Bees player.
The Albion, who started the game with a reshuffled formation, looked disjointed and failed to possession of the ball for large periods, and it was hardly surprising when the hosts took the lead after a simple goal from top-scorer Jo Kuffour. Debutant Alexis Bertin conceded possession in the centre of the park, and Kuffour was set through for a one-on-one with Kuipers, whom he coolly slotted the ball past.
The new formation employed by the Albion, 4-4-1-1, failed to trouble the home side for most of the first half and it was disappointing that a change was not made earlier in the match. With Cox playing just behind a lone Robinson, there was very little width on either side, particularly as both Ward and Hammond are accustomed to central midfield roles. This lack of width caused the Brighton fullbacks problems, as they were frequently exposed, and this led to the sending-off of Kerry Mayo. He quickly accumulated a yellow card for persistent fouling and it seemed almost inevitable that any tackle after this would result in an early bath. What was disappointing was that the Albion management didn’t react to the situation quickly enough and on the stroke of half-time, Mayo hesitated as he lost possession and made a desperate grab for the opposition player's shirt.
It was obvious that the Albion needed to start the second-period with renewed vigour, and they were courageous in their attempts, but ultimately unsuccessful. The introduction of Bas Savage provided the Albion with a physical presence in the forward line, when he replaced the unproductive Nick Ward. The reshuffle also saw Cox move to the right hand side and Hammond remain on the other while Bertin continued in central midfield. El-Abd moved to right back and surprisingly O'Cearuill was moved to left back despite struggling for confidence and seemingly possessing nothing in terms of a decent left foot.
Credit to the Albion though as they battled well, despite being a man down, and had decent possession and forward running. Headers from Hammond and Savage both tested the Bees 'keeper but he was able to pretty easily catch them. He also saved decently from Savage, after the striker tried to place a shot past him at the near post. The Albion had to be grateful to Kuipers for making some decent saves and to Joel Lynch for a superb performance at the heart of the seagulls’ rearguard.
The second-half was a dramatic opposite to the first as they began to put some crosses into the box and seriously test the opposition. However the lack of balance, possibly because of the one-footedness of O’Cearuill, meant that almost all of the Albion's play came from down the right flank and resulted in us becoming a little predictable. However Brentford failed to shackle Cox and he continually attempted to cross but to no significant avail.
One has to wonder whether the Brighton managerial team will look at themselves after today and conclude that they may have made some errors of judgement. The team selection and shape seemed to be incorrect and the hurry to change it was non-existent. This seemed to be proved when Sam Rents came on as sub (belatedly) in the 84th minute to replace O'Cearuill at left-back. He had been standing on the touchline waiting for a good 5-7 minutes before the management decided to bring him on. Gatting also took to the field for the last 5 minutes but was unable to connect with a cross in his only meaningful contribution. And while the referee was poor, the Albion can only have themselves to blame after this lacklustre showing, in which they got what they probably deserved. Nothing.
Match Ratings:
Kuipers: 6 - Redeemed himself after earlier kicking errors with some good second-half saves, but didn’t look as comfortable as he can do. He got in a fracas with the stand behind him late in the second-half and this hardly helped to increase and maintain the kind of tempo that Brighton needed to get back in the game.
Mayo: 5 - Was exposed all too frequently and his lack of pace wasn’t helping him. His dismissal was after a panic pull on the opposition player’s shirt in an area of the field where it was probably unnecessary.
Butters: 7 - Led well by example and cleared a few shots off the line in the second half.
Lynch: 9 - MOM - Was a man mountain and cleared up everything that he had to: tackled strongly, headed well and passed efficiently, one of few highlights.
O'Cearuill: 5 - Seemed to struggle again at right back, in what is clearly not his natural position, and struggled equally so at left-back. Will be lucky to keep his place for Orient.
Hammond: 5 - Was out of position and struggled to influence the game as he has done previously this season. Led by example however, with some strong, yet fair, tackling.
El-Abd: 7 - He had little of the ball in the first half but grew in stature in the second half when he played at right back. He led well from his position and got forward well at times.
Bertin: 6 - Looks to be an accomplished player who can tackle and pass, new Chippy possibly? He faded in the second-half and conceded the ball a little too often.
Ward: 5 - Had a poor 45 minutes and looks a little stranded on the right flank. He also seems to revel in fancy skill and flicks but could actually do with controlling and passing the ball a little more simply.
Cox: 6 - Was far more useful when switched to right midfield and tried as hard as he could until the very last minute.
Robinson: 5 - Desperately short of form, and he wont have been helped by yet another one-on-one miss, even if he was offside. He probably needs to be dropped as he is costing the team points with his misses and a lot of possession is breaking up around him.
Subs
Savage: 5 - Huff and puff but very little impact and his goal record is scarily poor. He is by no means the finished article, but do we have enough time to develop him?
Rents & Gatting: 5 - No time.Labels: Brentford, League One, Rhys Turrell
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Report: Port Vale
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Posted by David Snowball
at
Wednesday, January 31, 2007
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Brighton continued their recent resurgence in the league with the stalemate against visitors Port Vale, who boasted one of the division’s hotshots in striker Leon Constantine. It was the second game in succession that the Albion rearguard kept a clean sheet against a top-scorer, having defeated the now Wigan striker Caleb Folan’s Chesterfield the previous week.
To be frank the first half was tedious and starved of quality with the visitors setting up defensively, obviously looking to claim a point. They did however earn a lot of early corners and a dangerous free-kick which the seagulls dealt with well. The Albion had the majority of the ball but didn’t capitalize on their possession or crosses. As Dean Wilkins acknowledged the side had lots of shots on goal, but failed to hit the target often enough. Proof of this came at the end of the first period when Dean Hammond headed straight at the young Vale ‘keeper when he really should have done better.
The Albion showed some renewed vigor in the second period and continued to control proceedings, but, as in the first half, never really got in behind the full-backs - instead resorting to long range shots. The one time they did however, Jake Robinson was agonizingly close to breaking the deadlock. His one-two on the edge of the area took him into a one-on-one situation but his curved (Henry-esque) shot was inches wide of the far post. One goal would probably have been enough for either team to have won the game, but Vale’s attacking play was diluted by their lack of attacking impetus – only the front two showing any interest – so they were defiantly the happier team with the result.
Brighton must acknowledge this as two points dropped rather than one gained, but there were positives. Not only the second consecutive clean sheet in the league but another run out for Nathan Elder who put himself about well and Adam El-Abd whose tackling and desire was very impressive. He appears to be straight out of the Charlie Oatway mould and his steel and determination should act as a catalyst for others.
RHYS TURRELLLabels: League One, Port Vale, Rhys Turrell
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Millwall Report: "It wouldn't be the Albion without some sort of crisis!"
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Posted by David Snowball
at
Wednesday, January 17, 2007
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Albion met Millwall for the third time this season, and for the first time the seagulls were defeated by the London side as their recent resurgence, and Brighton's recent slump collided in an all too familiar match at Withdean.
This was yet another home disappointment for the Albion, who have now won just a measly four home matches out of fourteen, and leaves them languishing agonisingly close to the relegation zone.
It was poor match between two sides who looked short of quality and both in need of some investment during the current transfer window. It was befitting that the winning goal came from a defensive error - however we shouldn't belittle the finish. A sixty yard punt from the visitors' right fullback was misjudged by Joel Lynch and Darren Byfield ran through to lob over the advancing Henderson who was stranded by the poor positioning of the young central defender. However, as now seems customary, some fans found it right to blame our young international goalkeeper for not commanding his area and not coming off his line quickly enough. It is fair to say that Henderson somewhat spluttered out of goal but by the time he reached Byfield he was on the edge of his area and was cleverly lobbed by the Lions forward.
The goal was synonymous with those conceded in recent weeks, where poor defending and leadership has led to us conceding sloppy goals.
However, Albion could easily have been ahead by the break when two simple chances were wasted. Firstly following a free-kick into the visitors' area, Albion created panic and after Joe Gatting slid the ball square across the goalmouth - inexplicably really, considering he should have scored - Adam El-Abd somehow shot so wide of the goal a throw-in was awarded. It was a dire miss by El-Abd who was only 6-8 yards away from the gaping goal. The second opportunity scorned by the seagulls came when Dean Cox could only shoot into the side-netting from a mistake by the Lions' defender Danny Senda. When Senda trod on the ball Cox was quick to race in and gather the ball but he lacked composure as his shot sailed wide.
These were the two best opportunities of the first period and the Albion could count themselves unlucky to be behind, particularly as the visitors rarely threatened Henderson's goal. The second-half continued in a rather blasé fashion with the lack of a decent tempo to really threaten Millwall. With twenty minutes or so left, somewhat belatedly, Nathan Elder and Tommy Fraser came on to try and change the direction of the game. Elder's forceful running and aerial presence impressed and he got up well to head goalwards only for the 'keeper to clench it from the bottom corner.
Henderson made a very decent save from Byfield, to keep the game alive, and was again tested by a Ben May drive.
The Albion seemed to slide into this defeat, exhibiting low confidence and poor concentration. It also should be considered that some of our younger stars like Cox and Fraser are beginning to become fatigued quicker and our struggling to reach the high levels that they have set themselves by their previous performances. This game was yet another example of how pivotal Dean Hammond has become to the side in his box-to-box midfield role. Despite Carpenter having a solid game in midfield he cannot dominate the midfield with marauding runs like Deano. A mention must also go to Joe O'Cearill who had a composed game at right back and looked comfortable when running forward with the ball.
In my opinion if the Albion want to progress this season then their must be investment in the side in this transfer window. An experienced striker, Neil Shipperley for example, would not only help the team on the field but he could certainly aid Joe Gatting and help him become a better player. All thoughts of the play-offs should be annulled and the squad must re-focus on survival as if they are not careful then they will suffer a second successive defeat.
Player Ratings:
Henderson: 6: Decent saves and kicking, was partly at fault for the goal
Rents: 6: Composed if not influential is progressing steadily
Butters: 5: His lack of pace was shown and the defence were often quite deep
Lynch: 5: Covered well for Butters but was a fault for the goal.
O'Cearill: 6: Grew in stature and looks to be a strong and powerful defender.
Hart: 6: Strong in the tackle but didn't have a game to stick in the memory
El-Abd: 5: He played very deep and with Carpenter alongside him meant there
was little creativity.
Carpenter: 6: Spread the ball half-decently and was consistent throughout.
Cox: 6: Never really sparkled but did his grafting well and can also pull
something out of the hat.
Gatting: 5: Had a good first-half but as his fitness levels fell, so did his
application
Robinson: 8: MOM - Was lively when running at the back line and had several
decent shots. Was his best game for a while.
Subs:
Elder: 6: Good early impressions
Fraser: 6: Didn't vastly change the game
Frutos: 6: Lack of service coupled with lack of decent forward running.
Report by: Rhys Turrell Labels: League One, Millwall, Rhys Turrell
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Carlisle Report: "Surrendered yet another lead"
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Posted by David Snowball
at
Wednesday, January 03, 2007
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Report By: Rhys Turrell
The seagulls yet again failed to clear their lines and were punished for poor concentration and slow reactions. This was particularly true for the penalty Albion conceded. The Cambrians launched a ball into the area and after no defenders decided to clear it sufficiently Kerry Mayo bought down an opposition player for a stonewall penalty. Equally disappointing was the reaction of the players after Wayne Henderson made an excellent save from the resulting spot tick. As the ball came back into play no defenders reacted quickly enough and Neal McDermott - son of Terry - was there to tap into the goal. Henderson had every right to lambaste his team-mates and he did so.
All of this came after yet more sloppy defending from Brighton which resulted in an equaliser for Carlisle. A throw-in was sent into the area and the ball was only cleared back to the thrower who sent in another cross and after a scramble the ball crashed off the crossbar and the quickest to react was a visiting player.
The Albion started the game reasonably brightly and Joe Gatting nodded in the opening goal and took his tally to three for the season with a cute header into the bottom left hand corner. Gatting exhibited some decent hold-up play in the game and was generally quite decent. Some of the Brighton players however were below par and looked jaded particularly youngsters like Cox and Fraser. While playing many of our successful youth team has proved successful for the most part of the season, we defiantly need to add some experience to our side to replace some of the youngsters who are need of a rest. We could also do with adding some steel to our line-up and no-one would be more effective at this than Charlie Oatway but he seems to have disappeared of the radar with no news on his ankle injury.
It may sound severe but if the Albion continue to play like they are at the moment they face the prospect of another relegation scrap. They seem to be making the same errors week-in week-out and unless they begin learn from their mistakes then we could be in serious trouble come the season.Labels: Carlisle, League One, Rhys Turrell
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Bournemouth Report: "One of the worst performances of the season?"
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Posted by David Snowball
at
Tuesday, January 02, 2007
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Report By: Rhys Turrell
Brighton ended their festive football with a whimper to leave them with four successive defeats over the past 10 days.
I'm sure the youthfulness and inexperience of the team will be
cited as a reason for our poor form, however, that doesn't take away from
the fact that recent performances have been very poor. One of the most
concerning issues about today's defeat was the way the Albion seemed to
accept a draw, and the manager seemed reluctant to change the players on the
field. While having the capacity to change between a 442 and 433 formation
has many benefits, it seemed at times that the players were unsure of their
roles in the side. There also seemed to be a lack of confidence and grit in
the side however Guy Butters and Adam El-Abd defended numerous crosses and
looked to have earned the side a clean sheet. The two central defenders got
everything they could behind the ball and effectively - albeit if a bit
scrappily - managed to clear the ball from the danger area. There certainly
seemed more balance in the defence and this helped them to be more resolute
than in recent matches. However, our attacking play left a lot to be
desired, as we rarely seriously threatened to score. We should have had
penalty in the second half for a blatant shove/grab on Alex Revell as he
looked certain to score. In all honesty though it would have been unjust if
either side won this match, both sides were poor, and although Albion played
the better football they did so in the wrong areas of the field often
keeping possession in the middle third and struggled to carry it forward in
the same style as they could in their own half.
A mention must certainly be given to veteran Darren Anderton who
was simply a pass ahead of everyone else of the park. His passing was
accurate and effective and if his passing didn't find a Bournemouth body
then they put Albion's back-line under pressure.
However the main talking point of the game was the last-minute
incident and the response by the Albion faithful to goalkeeper Wayne
Henderson. Quite frankly the treatment that he received was disgusting and
any 'Brighton' supporter who booed him should be thoroughly ashamed of
themselves. It looked to me as though he genuinely slipped on the greasy
surface (it had been hammering down with rain for most of the game) and was
embarrassed by the fast reactions of the Bournemouth striker who tapped into
the empty net. So genuine misfortune for Henderson and he seemed distraught
at what had just unfolded, and he deserves credit and respect for coming
over to the seagulls supporters at the end of the game and apologising for
the incident. It was then that some Albion supporters booed and chanted the
Michel Kuipers song. This was simply outrageous treatment for a man who had
one of his better matches of the season and kept Albion in the game with
several top class saves.
It seems to me that some supporters simply dislike Henderson
because he has dislodged long term stopper Kuipers who performed so well in
the past for the seagulls. But at the present time Henderson is an
international goalkeeper who at just 22 years old is by no means the
finished article. He has a lot of promise and if he continues to develop
like he has been - his performances are much better than last season - then
he has the potential to be one of Albion's most sought-after players. There
are faults in his game, no doubt, but to be booed for one error after game
in which he played so well in is outrageous. What if the same thing had
happened to Kuipers? Could you ever envisage him being lambasted as he left
the field? I think not.
Match Ratings
Henderson: 7 - Some great saves, unlucky with slip at the end
Rents: 5 - Possibly a little jaded and didn't play as well as he has done
Butters: 7 - Solid and brave, will feel hard done by to have lost
El - Abd: 7 - Seemed to concede a lot of fouls, but was solid at the back
Hart: 6 - Never looks comfortable at right-back but did an adequate job
Cox: 6 - Not as impressive as in recent times but full of running and
commitment
Hammond: 6 - Didn't link up with front three as well as was needed but was
solid
Fraser: 5 - The game seemed to pass him by and was unsure of position
Robinson: 6 - Full of endeavour but never looked like scoring
Gatting: 5 - Held the ball up ok but lack of pace made us less dynamic
Revell: 5 - Seemed unsure of role in the side and thus had no impact
Subs:
Mayo: Came into midfield and had little impact.Labels: Bournemouth, League One, Rhys Turrell
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Yeovil Report: "It Can Only Get Better!"
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Posted by David Snowball
at
Thursday, December 28, 2006
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Yeovil became the first side to 'do the double' over the seagulls this season, when they inflicted the Albion's second defeat in a week and bought to an end their recent improvement in front of the home supporters.
To be fair, the seagulls played reasonably well and the score line was perhaps a little harsh - it was by no means Blackpool-esque - but the solidarity of the side was weak and the defending was poor. The loss of Dean Hammond, through illness, ripped the spine out of the side and his marauding box - to - box midfield leadership was sorely missed. Richard Carpenter was asked to play in the Hammond role, but lacks the engine to get from one end of the pitch to the other. To be fair however Chippy wasn't assisted by his fellow midfielders, Fraser and El-Abd both having indifferent performances.
Fraser started the game brightly but when it came to crucial moments in the opposition penalty area he seemed to freeze and often made the wrong decision as to whether pass or shoot. To be fair to Tommy though he has performed very well in his debut season and has racked up a lot of appearances and is perhaps ready for a break - and to be replaced by the more natural wide player Alistair John who needs to be given a fair crack of the whip. El-Abd, as always, put in some thunderous tackles but was shown up by his lack of passing ability and attacking instincts, like when instead of shooting from the edge of the area, he chose to pass only for it to be intercepted and a counter-attack by the visitors ensued.
Dean Cox returned to the first team and exhibited his usual high level of performance but he seemed to run out of ideas when Yeovil's gigantic goalkeeper kept on catching everything that was in his area. Alex Revell exhibited some good aerial play and won a lot of headers but his fellow attackers didn't get near his knock-downs so play was continually broken up around him. He also suffered from a lack of decent service and seemed a bit frustrated at the long-ball tactic the Albion frequently used and which rarely worked. Jakey Robinson had a quiet afternoon and apart from one dangerous run in the first half and a five minute spell after Gatting's strike, he was largely anonymous. In fact Gatting looked very lively (well as lively as he can for someone so slow!) and took his goal well and generally held the ball up well at a difficult part of the match. He still doesn't look ready to start a match but is steadily improving.
Wayne Henderson had a good game and can count himself unlucky to have conceded three goals. He made two or three excellent saves to deny almost certain goals and his kicking and throwing was decent. He still needs to command his area more however, as proven when Morris hit the post after a mix up between the centre of defence and himself.
And so to the defence, well Rents and Whing where both fairly solid but where unable to offer any attacking threat due to the extra work they had to do helping out Butters and Hinshelwood. It later emerged that Hinshelwood was suffering from 'discomfort' in his troublesome right knee and this probably covered why he seemed so off the pace. Butters seemed to struggle against the pace and movement of the two opposition strikers and often he was shown up for a lack of pace and mobility. With these two playing with a lack of pace the defence where very deep which sucked in the midfield as may explain why the long-ball game wasn't effective.
Credit where it's due to Yeovil however, their football was fluent, and in their front pairing of Morris and Best they have combination of skilled back to goal hold-up play and lightning pace will cause a lot of sides at this level a problem. In their goalkeeper Mildenhall, they have a real asset who as the Albion realised, can pluck most crosses out of the air with relative ease. It was only when Revell switched to right-wing and was able to get to the byline that we had much success - in fact that's when Gatting scored.
I think this is probably a game that we can sweep under the carpet and say it was probably down the youthfulness of the side, perhaps a more experienced Albion XI would have taken at least a point but that I largely inconsequential and as long as the seagulls learn from their mistakes then I am sure not to many fans will hold it against them. Expect Yeovil to be up there when it all concludes and probably, unfortunately, above us.
By RHYS TURRELLLabels: League One, Rhys Turrell, Yeovil
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Millwall Report: Brighton win on penalties!
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Posted by David Snowball
at
Sunday, December 03, 2006
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The seagulls began their cup double bill with an enthralling penalty shoot-out victory over Millwall after Jake Robinson rescued the Albion with an 88th minute equaliser.
The game started brightly for the visitors, who were able to retain and use possession to their advantage. The Albion were far superior and looked much more concentrated and passionate than the home side. But, unfortunately for the seagulls, veteran defender Guy Butters was sent-off for a supposed professional foul after just 20 minutes.
It seemed that all of Brighton's hard-work would be wasted and inevitably the home side began to dominate proceedings and enjoyed long periods of possession but failed to seriously challenge the visitor's goal from open-play.
It was no great surprise when they scored, unfortunately just a few minutes from a much-needed half-time team talk. It was Jake's Millwall namesake Paul who opened the scoring with a scrappy swipe goalwards from a corner. Albion stopper Wayne Henderson felt he had been impended but his claims were rejected and his team-mates hardly protested with much vitriol.
It was a little disappointing to concede in such a fashion, as just minutes earlier the Lions had a similar effort only a stab off the line from Dean Cox preventing the Albion from dropping behind.
The Albion were glad of the half-time whistle and trudged off for some much needed re-organisation and a rest.
The visitors came out looking more resilient and played with a
more attacking purpose but of course had to be weary of being outnumbered in
defence due to having just 10 men. Their case looked even bleaker after a
nasty looking injury to Adam El-Abd. He was helped from the field and his
replacement, Charlton loanee, Alistair John, forced a tactical change from
the Albion with Andrew Whing moving to centre-half - presumably to curb his
attacking instinct - and John playing as a winger raiding down the right
side. However it was only when Robinson dropped into that position with two
minutes to that the seagulls broke down Millwall's rearguard. After an
excellent cross-field pass by the impressive Cox - now playing in the centre
of midfield following the reshuffle - Robinson took a great first touch and
charged menacingly towards the Millwall goal he evaded at least two tackles
before unleashing a forceful shot past Chris Day to send the healthy away
attendance, some 900 or so, into raptures.
With the absence of extra time, the Albion played out the final
seconds by the corner flag, knowing they had the physiological edge. And so
the penalties began, evoking memories of the last shoot-out the seagulls
were involved in, the infamous Play-off match with Swindon in 2004. The
first taker, Millwall's Darren Byfield, hopelessly dragged his shot
hopelessly wide of the left post much to the relief of Henderson who dived
in the opposite direction. Albion skipper and regular penalty taker Dean
Hammond was next and he coolly slotted in the right hand side of the goal.
The home side then equalled things up with a well taken strike and
unfortunately young Dean Cox couldn't restore the advantage as his strike
was blocked by Day. Another successful Millwall penalty put Robinson under
pressure but he brushed that to one side with a confident shot to the right
of the goal. Hendo then made a brilliant stop to deny Millwall taking the
lead but sub Joe Gatting couldn't capitalise, Day using his legs to block
after he had initially dived the wrong way. But to much derision from the
sporadic home crowd, defender Zak Whitbread blasted his spot-kick into the
upper tier of the home end, therefore providing stalwart Kerry Mayo to slot
home an assured penalty to progress the Albion to the area semi-finals.
Henderson: 7
Lynch: 6
Butters: 5
Hinshelwood: 6
Whing: 6
Cox: 7
El-Abd: 6
Hammond: 7
Fraser: 6
Robinson: 8 MoM
Revell: 6
Subs:
John: 6
Gatting: 6
Mayo: 7
RHYS TURRELLLabels: League One, Millwall, Rhys Turrell
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Tranmere Report: Unbeaten streak came to an end...
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Posted by David Snowball
at
Wednesday, November 22, 2006
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Report by Rhys Turrell
The seagulls' unbeaten streak came to an end at Withdean on Saturday to high-fliers Tranmere Rovers. Although it probably won't go down in the record books as a classic, the endeavour and desire shown by the Albion players (and staff) to earn a result was great for all to see. You could perhaps be forgiven for thinking that after last week's demolition of Northwich and a full-to-capacity family stand it was a case of 'after the Lord's mayor show' however the second-half performance was possibly deserving of at least a point.
We shouldn't forget however that the Albion were fairly poor in the first-period with the impressive visitors showing why they at the right end of the lead. How they didn't score in the five minutes is a real puzzler. From a well-taken corner two Tranmere players went for the same ball and whether or not they got in each others way it was certainly a relief to see Hendo collecting the ball of a ball boy and not out of the net.
The visitor's centre forward, Gareth Taylor, was causing Albion's rear guard lots of problems with his hold - up and aerial prowess. On several occasions he beat Butters in the air and was central to most of Rovers 'direct' style of play. But we shouldn't speak derogatorily about Tranmere, their manager, Ronnie Moore, had them well drilled and they formed an efficient and sturdy unit.
With the seagulls struggling for a foothold in the game and fluent play rare it took a flash of skill from Cox to register a shot for the home side. His half-volley never really tested the goalkeeper and neither did it serve as a statement of intent for the Albion.
Shortly afterwards Rovers had their goal when forward Chris Greenacre pounced on a mix-up between Lynch and Hinshelwood. A lack of communication between the two meant they both went for the same header and the ball squirmed to Greenacre who was through one-on-one and finished coolly.
After the break Brighton upped the tempo and peppered the Tranmere goal with several long-range shots. However their was little for the visitors to be concerned about as they soaked up the pressure and launched several dangerous counter attacks. With around an hour on the clock Albion Chief Dean Wilkins changed the formation to 4-3-3 which featured Dean Cox playing in the 'quarterback' role and allowing him to exhibit his passing ability. The introduction of Dean Bowditch increased the pressure but to no avail with the Tranmere back-line being marshalled well and their team spirit showing through. However Robinson must have thought he had won it in the last-minute when he connected with cross-box header but to everyone's disappointment the ball landed wide of the post.
It would have given the seagulls a point that they perhaps deserved but as previously mentioned it would have been harsh on the visitors who were ruthlessly well-organised and straight out of the Ronnie Moore handbook. Before this game their away record was as bad as our home - with just two wins - and it is now becoming a little concerning. With back - to - back home games after our last Yorkshire visit of the year next Saturday we will have another tough test against a Leon Knight missing Swansea and whipping boys Cheltenham.
Player Ratings (Out of 10)
Henderson: Possibly a surprise inclusion but didn't put a foot wrong despite many howls against him. The debate between him Kuipers will force one of them to leave the club. 6
Lynch: Seemed to struggle a bit against the lively Shuker and was involved in mix-up for goal. 5
Hinshelwood: Solid again but was a little perturbed by Tranmere's front two.
At fault for the goal however. 6
Butters: Struggled at the start against the impressive Taylor but gained composure and improved throughout the 90 minutes. 6
Whing: Generally faultless and was solid both at the back and going forward.
6
Cox: Was probably a victim of his size and was frequently out muscled but he still had plenty of touches and never hid from he ball. 6
Hammond: Another solid display if not quite as a good as in recent matches. 6
El Abd: Kept his composure well while being wound-up by the Tranmere players and broke up play reasonably successfully. 6 MoM
Fraser: No lack of endeavour or running but perhaps just missing that bit of class that Bowditch can offer. 6
Revell: Won a lot of headers but not a lot of them came to anything. Again
worked hard but suffered from a lack of service. 6
Robinson: Like Cox, he probably suffered because of the physical impact he
was on the receiving end of and didn't live up to last week's performance.
Like Revell he suffered from a lack of decent service. 6
Subs:
Bowditch: Pushing for a start next week after this bright, albeit short
run-out where his strong running caused the Tranmere unit to drop deep.
Labels: League One, Rhys Turrell, Tranmere, Withdean
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Bradford Report: "Best I have seen us play for many years"
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Posted by David Snowball
at
Monday, November 06, 2006
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Report By Rhys Turrell
The seagulls continued their unbeaten run in pulsating fashion as substitute Dean Bowditch scored a last-minute winner at Valley Parade.
It could be argued that it was a fortunate victory, bearing in
mind the two goal lead that the Albion let slip but the spirit and
determination of the fledgling seagulls could not be repressed by the
Bantams. After a bright opening 5 minutes from the home side they seemed to
take their foot of the pedal and the seagulls began to dominate with Cox and
Revell coming close. It was no upset when Alex Revell scored the opener on
13 minutes when he defied the offside trap and toe-poked a shot from the
onrushing goalkeeper.
Following Revell's opener the game began to equal out and
veteran Dean Windass forced a great save from Michel Kuipers following a
Bradford set piece. It was unsurprising to see why the Bantams would not let
Windass leave for Premiership Wigan as he was the focal point for their
side. He held the ball-up well and bought others into the game well. Not bad
for a 37 year old.
As the half-time whistle sounded El-Abd - who had a ferocious
game in midfield - was involved in a fracas with Bradford captain David
Wetherall. Both were cautioned as they left the pitch and it was a bit
surprising to see him emerge for second-half, particularly after the
'rollicking' that Wilkins laid onto him.
The visitors got off to a fantastic start with Robinson winning
a penalty just three minutes in the second period. It was an impressive
jinking run from Robinson who was bought down the Wetherall (no second
yellow) and Captain Dean Hammond wrong footed 'keeper Ricketts to give
Albion a comfortable lead.
However they were back in the game on the 55th minute when they
won a penalty for an apparent handball by Kerry Mayo. Windass duly converted
for his 200th career strike. From then on the seagulls were clinging on, and
with the home side breathing new confidence and the vocal home crowd trying
to blow the ball into then net, the pressure began to tell. A bizarre mix-up
between Hinshelwood and Kuipers resulted in the central defender looping the
ball over the Dutchman and was able to somehow clear it off the line. Some
more brave 'keeping from Kuipers gave the Brighton players a sight of the
end but where disappointed when Schumacher swept in a loose ball to level
the scores. Whing cleared off the line but the seagulls were unable to fully
clearly the ball and the Bradford midfielder reacted quickest.
But, after they got their equaliser, the home side seemed to
ease off, perhaps they were nervous - with no win in five - replicating
Albion's form before our renaissance, and this allowed the visitors to
ultimately win the game. A fantastic run down the right flank by Revell and
an excellent box across the six-yard box enabled sub Bowditch to stretch a
foot to the ball and send the visiting supporters into delirium. It was an
excellent counter-attack by the seagulls and a move that warranted a goal.
It was a goal that you have to believe that just a month ago we
just wouldn't have converted, but with confidence flooding through the
players, they always looked dangerous and threatening in forward positions.
And with 10 goals in our last 3 games perhaps it isn't a fluke either.
Player Ratings (Out of 10)
Kuipers: Solid return between the sticks with some great shot-stopping and
commandment of his area, kicking and distribution were wayward and slow
however. 6
Mayo: Was solid in the tackle but was replaced by Lynch after a being
frequently outpaced by Bradford's Jermaine Johnson. Passing was sloppy and
inaccurate. 5
Butters: Solid and dependable and strong in the tackle. Centre-forward Eddie
Johnson seemed to win a few early headers but Butters was equally strong on
the deck. 6
Hinshelwood: Much the same as Butters, and they seem to complement each
other well, competent on the floor on equally so in the air. Hiccup with
Kuipers was well resolved. 6
Whing: Solid at the back and was sensible in his forward play bearing in
mind the pressure the home-side were applying. 6
Cox: Perhaps not as influential as in previous games but was always looking
to retain possession and has a killer pass which was proved in his pass to
Revell for the opening goal, he may have got onto the score sheet himself
but for a good stop by the otherwise hopeless Bradford 'keeper. 6
Hammond: Maintained his excellent run of form with a good penalty and by
leading by example throughout. Kept good possession in the middle of the
park. 6
El -Abd: Broke up possession well in the first half and was well-disciplined
in the second following his booking. Offers little going forward but is
vital in the team working cohesively as a unit and his ferocious talking
gives the team a much needed bit of bite. 6
Fraser: Played better than against the Mk Dons but doesn't look a natural
wide-player. He was a vital link however in the several passages of
well-rehearsed play down the right side also involving Whing and Revell. 6
Robinson: Looked confident and is always able to put the defence on the back
foot with his brave running. His relationship with Revell is blossoming and
if he can continue his decent form the benefits could be huge for both him
and the seagulls. 6
Revell: Yet again his endless running frightens defences forcing them deeper
and deeper where he can release some dangerous shots. His hold play is
defiantly improving with every game and his desire can never be questioned.
6 MOM.
Subs:
Lynch: On for Mayo and was equally solid and without being outpaced. Pushing
for a starting birth on the left side. 6
Bowditch: Movement off the ball is impressive and is clearly an intelligent
player and has great control and skill on the ball, great finish for winner.
6Labels: Bradford, League One, Rhys Turrell
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MK Dons Report: "Goal Fest"
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Posted by David Snowball
at
Sunday, November 05, 2006
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Report By Rhys Turrell
The seagulls progressed to the quarter - finals of the Johnston's Paint trophy with a goal fest against lower-division MK.
The rout began with a well-worked free kick, some 25 - 30 yards
away from goal. A dummy movement from Cox allowed Mayo to pass to Hammond
who then passed to the now unmarked Cox who had made a great run round the
blindside of the defence and finished coolly into the bottom corner. In a
previous attack he saw his well-placed effort finger tipped around the post
by the Dons's stopper. Albion continued to show a positive performance after
the goal, with good forward momentum being rewarded with several shots
testing the MK backline. And it was the impressive Revell who doubled Albion's
lead on 37 minutes when he finished a flowing Albion move. Hammond played an
exquisite pass to Fraser on the right-flank who looked up and saw Robinson,
the subsequent pull-back was flung goalwards by Robinson and Revell was able
to power in a header past the helpless 'keeper. The home side continued to
dominate the possession and were inches away from taking in a much deserved
3-goal cushion. It was the inventive Cox who was again the key with his
rasping volley being tipped over by the Dons' stopper who was at full
stretch.
As it was however, the Seagulls took a two-goal advantage into
the break after seemingly enjoying their performance in the first period
were they bossed all areas of the park and where El-Abd and Hammond in
particular could set the tempo and direction of the match at their leisure.
The Dons' task was made much tougher when £million rated striker Izale
McLeod was take off injured. He was shortly followed by central half O'Hanlon,
and it was his removal that caused the most disruption to the MK defence.
The second-period was much the same as the first, with the
Albion controlling the game and peppering the visitors' goal with several
strikes. The away side began to start taking more risks higher up the
field - in an attempt to get back in the game - only to be halted by a
fabulous long range shot from Revell which capped off a brilliant man of
match performance. His hold-up play and aerial prowess were successful and
is really beginning to settle in as a first-choice leader of the forward
line. The seagulls were pegged back when Sam Page nodded in a free-header
just two minutes after Revell's strike but this was never going to be more
than a consolation and in 87th minute captain Hammond cutely placed a shot
into the bottom right-hand corner to complete the scoring and round off a
successful performance by the ever-improving Seagulls.
Wilkins seems to have stumbled across a very solid and resolute
Albion team who, lead by the imperious Hinshelwood and Butters at the back,
and El-Abd and Hammond in the midfield engine room have now got a strong
spine to the side and with confidence flooding back to our young squad the
future looks promising. Bring on Bradford!
Player Rating (Out of 10)
Henderson: Little to do but was alert when threats were posed, good
distribution - in particular with Cox. Seems t be more composed with the
steady head of Butters and is relishing this run of games. 6
Mayo: Solid and offered good shape and balance to the side. Unglamourless
and unfussy but then again would we expect it any other way? 6
Butters: His return has coincided with upturn in form and I believe this no
coincidence. His partnership with Hinsh is blossoming and they form a steady
and reliable pairing. 6
Hinshelwood: Much the same a Butters in another composed performance from
the versatile defender. 6
Whing: Offered good width and balance and always looks to attack and
provides good support higher up the field. His presence will probably only
be felt once he leaves. 6
Cox: Gets better with every performance and his long range passing really
helps to switch the play and bring others into the game. A creative gem that
should be given the chance to play naturally and give his own impact on the
side. And he is. 8
El-Abd: Trundles around midfield and generally marshals everything going
through, he might be no-frills but his contribution to the side largely goes
unnoticed. 6
Hammond: His form has defiantly improved recently, and whether that is
through him taking on the captaincy or having El-Abd mopping up behind him,
when he is on his game he can e very useful to the Seagulls. 6
Fraser: Seemed a bit off colour tonight and was largely well off the pace,
however he kept his head-up and continued to work hard to keep a good shape
and balance to the Albion. May struggle to keep his place for Saturday with
the impressive Bowditch staking his claim. 5
Robinson: Was a constant threat and his pacey drives always put the visitors
on the back foot. Came close with a few efforts but wouldn't go in for him
tonight. Is brimming with confidence which is great to see. 7
Revell: M.O.M - without a doubt. Has clearly worked on his hold-up play and
his aerial ability help's the Albion when on throw-in's and diagonal balls.
Has now bedded into the team and works so hard for them. Deserved everything
he got tonight. 9
Subs
Bowditch (for Fraser) - showed some excellent touches and a real desire to
get forward and score could be a big hit for us whilst on loan. 6
Lynch (for Mayo) - too little time for much of an impact but was steady and
largely unnoticeable. 6
Gatting (for Revell) - No time. 6
Report By Rhys Turrell Labels: League One, MK Dons, Rhys Turrell
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Huddersfield Town Report: It's just like watching Brazil...
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Posted by David Snowball
at
Monday, October 30, 2006
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Some recent Albion performances have been truly dreadful and a number of people were questioning the wisdom in giving Dean Wilkins the Manager's job. Saturday at Huddersfield showed exactly what he and the team can deliver to the travelling faithful. It was one of those days when everything worked, passes went to feet or perfectly into space for the onrushing forwards or midfielders, the Terriers defence was torn to shreds by the skill of Robinson & Cox and we looked likely to score a hatful. On the rare occasions when the Terriers threatened they were restricted to shots from outside the area and Henderson looked confident and assured. Revell and Jakey looked great up front against the ponderous Huddersfield defence and it really was "just like watching Brazil". Dean Hammond seemed revitalised in the centre of midfield with El-Abd alongside him and, despite a couple of errors at the beginning, El-Abd settled into winning the ball and giving it to Hammond or Cox to beat people, spray the ball around and create dangerous attacks.
Of course, Jakey scored a hat-trick to make the final score 3-0 to the Albion and great goals they were too. The first was a header which their keeper got a hand to and there was a delayed celebration from the travelling Seagulls as it was up the other end and no-one seemed sure if it had gone in. The second was a volley after the ball came to him from a Cox cross (who supplied the ball for the first goal too) and the third was a brilliant solo effort where he curled the ball into the top corner despite the close attentions of four defenders. Huddersfield never got into the game despite their recent run of good form and if the Albion continue to put in performances like this then the play-offs could be a distinct possibility.
Ratings:
Henderson - 7 - had little to do but did that perfectly
Whing - 8 - Just what we need, a right back who knows just what to do in that position
Butters - 7 - Solid and rarely troubled
Hinshelwood - 8 - Cool and calm all of the time
Mayo - 8 - Good all round game, even more so when moved into midfield in the second half
Cox - 9 - Brilliant game - all over the place
Hammond - 8 - Looked back to his best
El-Abd - 7 - shaky start but did what he had to do
Fraser - 6 - probably the only disappointment - subbed at half time
Revell - 8 - Won the ball in the air and chased all day
Robinson - 10 - Got to be MOM for the hat-trick
Subs
Hart - Came on at half time, got kicked immediately and was subbed himself
Lynch - 7 - looked composed and assured at left back
Rents - 6 - came on for Jake and played in midfield. The game was won by then.
 Labels: Huddersfield Town, League One
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Northampton Town Match Report: 'A Gritty Albion Performance'
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Posted by David Snowball
at
Monday, October 23, 2006
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Match Report by RHYS TURRELL A gritty Albion performance earned them their first home points for more than month with the visit of Northampton Town.
Before the match, the Seagulls had yet more injury torment, with
strikers Sam Williams and Alex Revell ruled out with groin and back injuries
respectively. They joined extensive injury list with: Charlie Oatway, Paul
Reid, Richard Carpenter, Gary Hart, Doug Loft and 3 youngsters yet to make
their senior bow. With the wealth of experience sitting on the treatment
table and not on the pitch - perhaps the result - and the manner of the
equalising goal - was unsurprising. More of which later. The cobblers came with an impressive away record, with no
defeats since March, and four victories on the road so far, it was always
going to be tough for the young seagulls. In total there were 8 Centre of
Excellence graduates who started the match with 2 others (Lynch and Rents)
coming off the bench. For the visitors a certain Scott McGleish lead the
line and it was he who missed the best chance of the opening 20 minutes or
so. Some quick passing down their left side resulted in him receiving a pass
from the byline, only to see his shot almost reach Preston Park station. It
was a poor effort considering the open goal and the Albion faithful
certainly let him know about it - ironic cheers and applause for the much
maligned former Orient striker. That was the best the visitors could muster
in the first- half and it was the Albion who went in ahead at the break.
Following a rasping drive from Kerry Mayo the resulting corner landed at
Dean Cox who blasted the ball goalwards - on the full volley - from some 20
yards out. The ball was blocked however and it took a good poachers finish
from Jake Robinson to secure a lead for the Albion. It seems to me that Jake
should be doing more of this inside of the six yard box rather than being
outside the area, he clearly has a goalscoring instinct that is vital to the
Albion. Anyway whether Brighton deserved it or not they had the
advantage at half - time. And with Robinson's strike in the 39th minute, the
visitors clearly needed the interval to freshen up their ideas. But to be honest the second period was much the same as the
first - very dreary. With both sides battling for midfield superiority it
was inevitable that that was where the majority of the play was. When
Captain Hammond was subbed off, suffering from a groin injury on 62, the
midfield battle began to lean towards the visitors who began to dominate the
play. The seagulls where also struggling to keep the ball in positive
territory. Joe Gatting, attempting to play the 'hold-up role' struggled, and
looked off pace and unfit. He struggles with a turn of pace and didn't link
up well with the speedy Robinson who was often to far away from his strike
partner. But it was the defence who were to blame for the equalising goal
with yet another example of a lack of concentration at the back. Adam
Hinshelwood came across and cleared the ball over the South stand and into
the trees. As he stood and admired his 'Six' a piece of quick thinking down
Northampton's left flank resulted in the seagulls becoming exposed. After
receiving a different match ball off a young ball boy he simply through it
over the out of position Hinshelwood's head to the unmarked - and
unnoticed - substitute James Quinn who finished well past an exposed
Henderson. It was a sloppy goal and certainly one you hoped they would learn
from. But just a few minutes later it nearly happened again but Henderson
was equal to Quinn's tame shot. Before that though the Albion had a faint
claim for a penalty when cobblers keeper Mark Bunn missed the ball and
instead punched fullback Andrew Whing full in the face resulting in a bloody
end to his afternoon. This left the Albion fighting with just ten men and
they were brave to grind out the draw with such a long list of suspensions
and injuries. The game was proof to me that the Albion will finish in
mid-table mediocrity this season. They didn't play great but were able to
extend their unbeaten run to three matches. They have, I believe, turned the
corner following the capitulation against Blackpool and we will probably see
patchy form for the remainder of the season. Player Ratings (Out of Ten)
Henderson: Some early kicking was suspect but was otherwise solid. 6 Mayo: Started at left-back and stated sluggishly but improved and some of
his corners were threatening moved into midfield after injury to Hammond and
was average. 5 Hinshelwood: A strong performance and has a good understanding with Butters,
touch was occasionally poor but will come with more games. 6 Butters: Solid as ever and won every header that was required, played with
minimum fuss and must give confidence to those around him, Man of the Match
for me, 6 Whing: Is useful going forward and offers natural width down the right side
of the pitch, could be blamed for not covering Hinshelwood for equaliser. 5 Cox: A good midfield outlook with decent vision on passing and solid
shooting and ball-carrying, he is our most creative midfielder and needs to
be utilised to the team's benefit - like he was today. 6 Hammond: Seems to play better as captain and was solid, if not superb in the
centre of the park. 6 El - Abd: Was played in central midfield, presumably to play the 'holding
role' however he was largely ineffective as most of his tackles were as a
result of his giving away possession. We need to get cover for this
position, quickly. 5 Fraser: Unspectacular and probably playing out of position but offered width
and balance down the right flank. However his abuse for the poor ball-boy
was harsh, I mean if some 6-foot plus hairy, sweaty professional player
shouted at you to give you the ball you probably would. Plus the multi-ball
system isn't just for the home-side is it. 5 Robinson: Finished his goal well and ran at defence with confidence didn't
link well with Gatting however. 6 Gatting: Was poor and seemed lethargic from the first minute, struggled to
find team mates and got caught in possession frequently. Can he cut it at
first-team level? The sceptics are getting louder. 5 RHYS TURRELL Labels: League One, Northampton Town, Rhys Turrell
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Blackpool Report: "Lifeless and frankly inept performancefrom a side clearly lacking any confidence in their play"
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Posted by David Snowball
at
Wednesday, October 11, 2006
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Match Report By: RHYS TURRELL For the second week in succession, the Albion home faithful were treated to a lifeless and frankly inept performance from a side clearly lacking any confidence in their play.
It took just 17 minutes for the visitors to take the lead through central midfielder Keith Southern, who headed in an excellent cross from the right full back Shaun Barker. It was a goal the game scarcely deserved as both sides showed very little quality throughout the ninety minutes. In fact Barker took a throw - in close to the touchline and received the ball - unmarked - to deliver an outside of the foot cross to Southern whose run from midfield was picked up by neither Carpenter or Hammond, both of whom had very poor games.
Former Albion transfer target Ben Burgess was substituted (unsurprisingly through injury) in the 41st minute. Initially the home fans could have seen this as respite as although Burgess never looked liked scoring, his hold-up play was impressive and showed why former boss Mark McGhee was so keen on him. However his replacement, the surprising substitute Scott Vernon (he was Blackpool’s leading scorer of the season) was able to exploit the appalling defending that the Albion continued to exhibit in the second period.
Frenchman Alex Frutos appeared after the break after the seemingly injured Joel Lynch, who was playing at left-back, was substituted. The reshuffle meant that Mayo - who was playing as part of a 3 man midfield, returned to his regular berth at the back and Frutos came in - presumably to offer more width to the obviously narrow Brighton side. However the Frenchman, who has been desperately short of form so far this season, got himself sent - off for a raised elbow. TV replays suggest that a straight red - card was probably unfair but by jumping into a 50/50 heading situation with a raised elbow he was always on the edge of caution. Of the 27 minutes or so he was on the field - Frutos offered little, a rash blast from the edge of the area and a few decent corners were the measure of his contribution.
By the time Frutos had gone for his early- bath however the Albion were chasing a two goal deficit. Substitute Vernon poking home in the 61st minute after Albion failed to dispense of a corner and the striker was able to poke home a 'typical poachers goal' - shame the Seagulls don’t seem to have anyone with the same mentality at present. Although four defenders seemed to surround the six yard box Vernon was still the quickest to react and easily poked it past Kuipers.
As Brighton tried to push for an Avenue back into the game, Vernon grabbed his second as he 'dummied' the unsuspecting Kuipers and finished to seal the game for the seasiders. How the ball ever reached Vernon in the first place only the Albion defence will know. Mayo had a poor first touch and skied a clearance into his own area and yet again Vernon reacted much quicker than El - Abd who was slow to react. The goal, scored in the 87th minute, left the South Stand faithful furious, and they let their feelings known to the management and the players through a series of boo's and a chant of 'what a load of rubbish' to which the Albion manager Dean Wilkins accepted was fair and deserved. It seems that unless the Seagulls can seriously alter their form, a third successive relegation battle is on the cards. The Albion are no doubt weaker than when we were last at this level and experienced players such as Mayo and Carpenter are not performing. Unless some serious changes are made - perhaps both on and off the pitch we could all be in for a long, long winter.
Player ratings: (Out of 10)
Kuipers: Could possibly have done better on a few goals but of more serious concern was his poor kicking - a frequented argument but one that is valid and true. 5
Lynch: Showed some good forward drives and determination but some poor touches let him down on forward runs. 5 Butters: Solid return to the first team and was strong in the air and reasonably smooth on the deck, same problems with pace apply this season as it has in past. 6 El -Abd: Possibly his worst performance in an Albion jersey and could be faulted for several of the goals and has not rediscovered his early season form. 2 Whing: Making his debut and it was good to see a natural right-back in that position, seems to be used to playing at a higher level and work rate was decent. 6
Mayo: Playing in midfield and didn't match performance in that position against Southampton in January. Was his usual self at left-back, but that's not saying much. 5 Carpenter: One of the great disappointments has been the decline of 'Chippy' who seems a shadow of his former self, he continually gave the ball away and didn't seem to inspire or motivate the side, was replaced after 62 and this will soon be permanent, surely? 2 Hammond: Has severely lost his way in this side and perhaps the only way to freshen his up is to sell him on or loan him to a higher club - never looked like scoring or playing a killer pass and combined poorly with Carpenter and Mayo. 3
Cox: Was not as effective as he has been in recent games but was potentially dangerous when he had the ball, good spirit and skill should see his succeed. 5 Williams: Was better than on his debut but didn't link up well enough with the rest of the side, is currently the best 'hold-up' player we have but his work ethic leaves much to be desired. 5 Revell: Hart mark II?, bags of energy and determination but lacks a good first touch which was noticeable today, voted man of the match, and was okay in the air and on crossing but his movement and awareness needs improvement. 6
Subs:
Frutos: Seems unable to hit the byline like he used to and attitude seems off colour. 4 Hinshelwood: Showed good touches and was brave and confident in tackles, must start next Saturday. Hart: Was probably on to late to have any impact, and thus, didn't. RHYS TURRELL Labels: Blackpool, League One, Rhys Turrell
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Saturday Pickup
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Posted by David Snowball
at
Wednesday, September 27, 2006
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SLOW out of the traps yet again, Albion were punished by a veteran goal poacher.
Their lacklustre performance at Yeovil simply ached for someone with the same class and finishing ability as Marcus Stewart.
It was a touch ironic too that the game was put beyond Albion's reach by a striker who once wore the stripes, albeit briefly.
The season will be full of what-might-have-been moments unless we can land that elusive target man.
In short, although the Albion had large amounts of possession during the game, they had no cutting edge in the final third - an oh-so-familiar story.
At times, as we huffed and puffed and passed it sideways and back, it was difficult to appreciate we could so easily have managed to salvage a point at least.
After Stewart's cracking early goal - when he was given time and space on the edge of the penalty area to control a neat ball in from Nathan Jones and rifle it past Henderson - Yeovil actually had very few chances to score.
It was only a classic breakaway late in the game, after an Albion free kick shambles, that led to Wayne Gray's winner.
Let's return to that free kick. In a game when Albion struggled to get themselves into good goalscoring positions, whatever possessed them to squander the opportunity to belt in a direct shot from the edge of the penalty area?
When Hammond was upended on the edge of the area, instead of a direct hit from the likes of Chippy, Coxy or Mayo, there was a disastrous tippy-tappy session that came to nothing.
Yeovil cleared their lines, and, with our centre backs committed forwards for that free kick, a gaping hole appeared at the back which Gray exploited.
There was a tired look about the Albion which could be put down to expecting too much from this largely young side playing their sixth game in 18 days.
What of individual performances? The returning Henderson in goal had very little to do. He didn't stand much chance with the goals and pulled off a couple of saves. It was telling, perhaps, that he seemed nervous in the moments before kick off about taking up his position in goal in front of the impressive ranks of Albion supporters; choosing to loiter on the edge of the area until the game kicked off.
Prior to the game, the impression was given that, if he'd been well enough, Guy Butters might have started instead of Georges Santos. I fully expect that to happen on Saturday.
I know Santos used to drive QPR supporters to distraction, and he's shown us why. To be fair, his passing improved in the second half, and his most effective moments were reserved for the do-or-die final five minutes when he was thrust up front. But even then he failed to capitalise on a slip by his marker, and a half-chance went begging.
Tommy Elphick got a place on the bench at Huish Park, and I wonder if he might be given an opportunity against Chesterfield.
It was good to see Richard Carpenter back in central midfield, but he didn't stamp his authority on the game in the way we know he can.
Dean Hammond looked our most energetic and effective player and was unlucky when he thumped a loose ball in the penalty area straight at Milldenhall, who double-punched it away. Dean Cox, playing in the excluded Alex Frutos role wide left, was less influential than he has been in recent games.
Tommy Fraser got himself into some good positions and could consider himself unfortunate to be substituted. His replacement, Joe Gatting, looked short of fitness - or perhaps he simply isn't going to convert his youthful goalscoring prowess to the League?
Alex Revell again put in a workmanlike performance that once or twice threatened to produce something, but Yeovil were well marshalled at the back by Terrell Forbes, who managed to keep most attacks at bay.
Gary Hart failed to get the better of his old Albion team-mate Jones, who looked comfortable at left back for the home side.
Brighton, though, should at least be getting a point from teams like Yeovil.
The Celtic lookalikes in their green and white hoops passed the ball neatly and, in the unpronounceable-named lad who scored for Grimsby against Spurs last season, had easily the best player on the pitch. He ran the show.
The Deans' honeymoon is well and truly over with this third defeat in a row and I fully expect to see a managerial appointment from outside the club before very long.
If we are to get in on loan the two or three players we need to strengthen what is a flimsy squad, there surely needs to be a permanent boss in place before any player is going to commit to join us.
Nick Turrell Labels: League One, Nick Turrell, Yeovil
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Heads Held High...
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Posted by David Snowball
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Thursday, September 21, 2006
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A LEAGUE Cup exit at the hands of Southend United was ill-deserved following a slick-passing performance at Roots Hall.
As the clock ticked down, Albion's dominance looked like it would be rewarded through a Dean Cox curler notched 19 minutes from time.
But with Southend throwing people forward in search of an equaliser, the Dean duo sent on veteran defender Guy Butters, presumably in an effort to stem the tide.
The switch had exactly the opposite effect to the one they'd made earlier when the more enterprising Doug Loft had replaced Frutos, and set up Cox for his goal following a strong forward run by Reid.
Albion failed to deal with a deep ball into the box and Southend were level.
Then, amazingly, two wonder strikes in the space of about three minutes made Southend look convincing winners, until an El-Abd header brought an air of justice to the final scoreline with a second Albion goal from Cox's whipped in free kick.
Maybe the Butters substitution was a tinker too far, but it was an understandable change at a time when Albion were under siege.
Perhaps something to learn, though, that with five minutes left in that situation, removing a striker and putting on an extra defender might have preserved the lead.
Nevertheless, Albion gave the travelling faithful, who'd given noisy backing throughout, enthusiastic applause at the final whistle and they left the pitch with their heads held high after outplaying the Championship side for much of the game.
What about individual performances?
Cox had another good game capped off with the aforementioned goal. El-Abd looked solid at centre half, and now can't stop scoring!
Tommy Fraser looked amazingly assured considering he's only played a handful of first team games.
Alex Revell looked a threat down the right side, but maybe needs to show just a bit more composure.
Kerry Mayo has plenty of doubters but he turned in his second successive solid performance and even caused Southend to switch Campbell-Ryce to the left wing for the second half.
Kuipers, who made two important stops at the end of the first half, should probably have done better for the equalising goal.
And Dean Hammond again anchored the midfield well, but was guilty of a few too many misplaced passes. It will be interesting to see if Chippy steps straight back into that position at Carlisle on Saturday.
Finally, it almost goes without saying that with someone tall and strong leading the line we would probably have got something more from the game.
Harty did his best and rattled Sodje a number of times, but one skewed shot into the side netting was the closest he came to a goal. Let's hope the Deans' pursuit of Dichio, or someone like him, comes off sooner rather than later.Labels: League One, Nick Turrell
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A Good Thrashing!
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Posted by David Snowball
at
Sunday, September 17, 2006
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ALBION fans were all smiles for a change after Orient were given a good thrashing at Withdean.
The only pity was that the Seagulls didn't rattle up an even higher score - - it could easily have been six, such was Albion's superiority.
Orient were undone by the 15th minute dismissal of their centre back and captain. Paul Reid opened the scoring two minutes later, and, by half time, a 3-0 lead was established thanks to a stunning left foot belter from Adam El-Abd, turning in from the right wing, and a well-deserved, tight-angled drive from Dean Cox, who just got better the longer the game went on.
It was a shame Dean Hammond didn't convert a penalty awarded for a shove on Reid, but the rest of his play sitting as the holding player in a diamond midfield was excellent most of the afternoon.
Reid revelled in his preferred central midfield role, and was unlucky not to grab a second when a thumping free kick from the edge of the box rattled a post and bounced to safety.
Alex Revell worked his socks off to good effect in opening up opportunities for others and linking the play effectively. The other Alex, Frutos, showed glimpses of a return to the sort of form he displayed last season, giving the Albion a good looking balance wide on the left.
Albion were so on top Kerry Mayo even had the opportunity to display some silky showboating skills to take the ball out of a tight situation.
Georges Santos had probably his best game since joining the Albion, but spoilt it by conceding a penalty with a blatant foul right in front of the ref.
Credit to substitutes Jake Robinson and Doug Loft for combining to notch the injury time fourth goal. Jake got behind Lockwood and pulled it back delightfully for Loft to nod home in the six yard box.
The only disappointment was the size of the crowd - 6,003 - but a few more performances like this, together with a rise up the league table, will bring the stayaway fans back.
Nick Turrell
Labels: League One, Leyton Orient, Nick Turrell
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Who Next?
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Posted by David Snowball
at
Saturday, September 09, 2006
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So it's now open season to speculate as to who might take the helm at the Albion.
After his public announcement this week that he would consider a job outside the Premiership, Alan Curbishley would be my preferred choice.
It seems the terms of his departure from Charlton mean he can't take another job until October, so, as long as the Albion can hold their nerve for three weeks, it could be well worth waiting for...if Brighton can afford him.
Charlton must be the perfect model for how Brighton could develop over time so to appoint the man who did such a great job for them would be a fantastic coup.
Once again, though, the lack-of-stadium fiasco blights the picture and someone like Curbishley is likely to have better opportunities to pursue before too long, where there will be more money to spend to back his ambitions.
Who else could be in the frame? I'd say it's too early for Dean Wilkins to step up, but a few good results as caretaker would support his cause.
Danny Wilson's name has been mentioned but he's only just taken the reins at Hartlepool, so he may feel an obligation to hang around there for a while longer.
How about giving Paul Ince the managerial debut he's looking for?
He was keen to take on Wolves, so he doesn't lack ambition, and he must have plenty of good contacts considering the teams he's played for.
The timing of McGhee's departure is certainly strange but Knight was obviously concerned about the early season stayaway fans - rather than the vociferous ones - and considered the only way Withdean might fill up again was with a fresh approach.
Also, in his Seagulls World interview, Knight implies - but falls just short of saying - that new players didn't want to come to the Albion because of McGhee, so someone must have said something to precipitate the decision.
One thing's for sure, there are enough out-of-work football managers around to choose from. Let's hope from the fans' point of view whoever takes it on is someone who excites and enthuses sufficiently to fill the ground and get us back up to the right end of the table.Labels: League One, News 06-07, Nick Turrell
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McGhee Steps Down
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Posted by David Snowball
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Friday, September 08, 2006
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Albion Manager Mark McGhee who took over just under 3 years ago has today stepped down after losing the backing of the fans. Dick Knight discussed the situation with the now ex-manager yesterday afternoon and they felt this was the right decision.
Knight said "Mark understands that and has agreed to step down. A lot of people thought Mark would be leaving at the end of last season but at that time I backed him, I thought he needed the chance.
"What has happened is the fans have really got on Mark's back and that is the way it is in football, and the team needs to be rejuvenated."Labels: David Snowball, League One, News 06-07
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Bristol City report - Time for Change?
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Posted by David Snowball
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Sunday, September 03, 2006
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An Albion team with four changes (Kuipers, El Abd, Loft, Frutos) started nervously against Bristol City on Saturday, and when Phil Jevons hit our post in the first two minutes, thoughts turned to desperation that this could be another heavy defeat like last week against Crewe. However, once we settled down, we managed to keep the ball for periods and made occasional forays into the City half although we never looked dangerous or likely to score.
It was an even match between two average teams but one small piece of clever footwork brought the only goal midway through the first half. Their No 26, Jennison Myrie-Williams, was making his debut in place of the imprisoned Steve Brooker, and he got into our area on our right. Although he had two Albion defenders around him an effort likely to get him on "Showboat" on next week's Soccer AM got him clear and he pulled the ball back to Jevons, whose shot was brilliantly saved by Kuipers but Brown put away the rebound.
This wasn't like last week's game where Henderson pushed the ball out for the forward to score, this was a fantastic save by Kuipers and just getting a hand on it was unexpected, pushing it out to the onrushing forward was just plain unlucky.
Kuipers was to show his class later in the half when a shot from the edge of the area was curling into his top left hand corner but somehow he flew across the goal and palmed the ball out. A standing ovation was never more deserved!
Albion's most incisive moves came from long diagonal balls from Joel Lynch, normally out to Frutos on the right but, once again, there was little penetration up front where Alex Revell, for all of his industry, showed that he doesn't have the class to be a target man at this level. Lynch was playing very well but was fouled late in the half and his injury forced him out of the game at half time to be replaced by Sam Rents for his debut.
The second half continued in much the same way as the first but two fine saves from their keeper kept out a long shot from Chippy and an effort when Jake (on as a sub) got free and should have done better. Doug Loft had been ineffective after a good appearance as sub against Crewe and was replaced, as was Frutos who certainly had the better game of the two wide men. Stokes was the other oncoming sub but he never got in the game and almost looked disinterested.
So, we never looked likely to score and the usual problems arose. We had occasions where lack of concentration at the back let their forwards have chances they didn't deserve. The midfield kept the ball at times but never penetrated and the forwards won little in the air and didn't get good enough service or weren't clever enough to make chances to score. Kuipers was great in goal, and if his distribution is the only reason for him not being in the team, then he had just one wayward kick but looked in charge of his area and was very unlucky to be beaten.
The crowd was disgruntled at the end and the "McGhee OUT" chants rang out from the away end. The players looked despondent but still applauded the away the support. I didn't see McGhee's reaction but reports of his post match interview suggested that he was as depressed as the rest of us.
Player Ratings
Kuipers - 8 - must start next week
Reid - 6 - usual steady game - would a start in midfield change our fortunes there?
Lynch - 7 - good game until injured apart from one error
Santos - 5 - just a big lump - doesn't impress
El Abd - 6 - did his best - better in the middle of the back four after half time
Cox - 6 - Ran around a lot without producing much - the chant of "We've got tiny Cox" raised a laugh
Carpenter - 6 - one good effort in the second half
Hammond - 5 - never got in the game
Loft - 4 - never beat their full back once
Revell - 5 - Not a target man
Frutos - 6 - Unlucky to be taken off - best of the forwards
Subs
Rents - 6 - looked nervous but did the simple things
Robinson - 6 - should have scored
Stokes - 5 - never got in the gameLabels: Bristol City, David Snowball, League One
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Crewe Disaster - Albion lose 4-1
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Posted by David Snowball
at
Sunday, August 27, 2006
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Where do you start after a match like todays? Five goals are always good to see but not when four of them end up in Wayne Henderson's net. The omens were not good as it seemed to be often pointed out that we hadn't beaten Crewe since 1969 and early signs didn't look like that would change. The Albion started out again with four at the back (Reid, Santos, Lynch & Mayo), Chippy just in from of them, Hammond and Stokes in front of him, Cox and Revell out wide and Gary Hart as the target man! Crewe won an early corner and when it came over their guy headed it over with hardly a challenge being made to him. This was a familiar pattern that we would see more of later on. Both sides tried to pass the ball about, but the Albion had little penetration and seemed to suffer from the formation as often the ball was played amongst the back four or lost in the narrowness of the midfield three. Crewe were their usual neat and tidy selves and it seemed difficult to understand why they had not won all season. However, after 40 minutes, Chippy had a shot on goal from outside the box, it was heading wide but pleasingly ended up at Dean Cox's feet and he put it away with ease and the first decent noise erupted from the Albion faithful. However, a lead at this time wasn't really justified as it the best chances had fallen to Crewe, but the next five minutes were to prove decisive. They got a free kick just outside the box and when it went straight through to Henderson he could only parry it out to their left back who put it away with ease. Soon after, and just into injury time, one of them got behind Kerry who only succeeded in bringing him down in the box, resulting in a penalty and a harsh red card from Mr Singh. The spot kick was put away with no messing and all of a sudden things were looking very bleak. With us being 2-1 down at half time, the interval talk in the toilets was that Henderson should learn to catch the ball or put it round a post rather than just push it out to any onrushing opponent. Things were to get worse for Wayne soon after a good chance for the Albion early in the second half when the ball ended up hitting the post after a good shot by Revell rebounded off their keeper and a defender. The resulting long clearance by Crewe came to Henderson but his attempted clearance only cannoned off their onrushing forward and he ran free to put the ball into an empty net. Many of the crowd were calling for Henderson's head but he made a number of fine saves during the rest of the game and certainly saved us from a much heavier defeat. A number of substitutions came about with Robinson, Loft and El Abd coming on which resulted in much switching of formations. Gary Hart started as a striker, went back to right back and then ended up as a centre forward again before finishing out wide. This final change was due to Joel Lynch moving from Centre Back to Left midfield and then to Centre Forward as he was carrying an injury and all of the subs had been used. The crowd was incensed that Alex Revell was taken off as he'd tried hard but looked tired to me by the time he came off. Doug Loft looked lively while he was on but the passing game of Crewe proved decisive by the end against our tiring ten men and a fourth goal was put away with ease. Many people left after the fourth goal but made sure that they made their views clear to Mark McGhee as they passed the dug out. For sure, the Albion were very poor today and something needs to be done if this season is to have any promise.
Ratings:
Henderson - 5 - some excellent saves but at fault for two goals
Reid - 6 - would be better used in midfield
Santos - 5 - started well but seemd to lose concentration or desire
Lynch - 6 - started well but got injured later on
Mayo - 4 - typical Kerry game of the last few seasons
Carpenter - 5 - struggling with his game
Hammond - 4 - looks lost in this formation - subbed off
Stokes - 5 - ineffective and subbed off
Cox - 7 - kept buzzing about
Hart - 6 - always kept going
Revell - 6 - surprisingly subbed but was tired and fading
Robinson - 5 - one or two good runs
Loft - 6 - injected some energy
El Abd - 5 - didn't add anything to the team
Labels: Crewe, David Snowball, League One
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Brentford Match Report
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Posted by David Snowball
at
Monday, August 14, 2006
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BRENTFORD nicked a point at Withdean with virtually the last kick of the game and few could genuinely deny they deserved it.
But Albion were the architects of their own failure to take all three points, rather than anything particularly special produced by Brentford.
Two-nil up before 15 minutes were on the clock, the Seagulls shamefully took their collective feet off the pedal and allowed the Bees to get back into the game - and then sting them right at the end.
Was it youthful naivety? Maybe, but we've seen it before with Brighton
- scoring two goals in a game has become so rare in recent times they think that's enough, when going on and burying a team is actually allowed.
Brentford could - and should - have been out of sight before Albion ran out of steam.
It was the third game in a week and maybe one or two were beginning to think League One is going to be a doddle.
As media commentator Mike Ward said on the truly awful post-match fans phone-in, the result actually may do us more good in the long-run because people will now take a look at themselves rather than thinking it's a piece of cake.
Expect changes for the Forest encounter. Mark McGhee wasn't getting carried away even before this disappointment and dropping two points will give him the perfect excuse to shake up the starting line-up to avoid any complacency drifting into the squad.
Wayne Henderson may well return from his midweek international call-up to discover he's only on the bench at the City Ground next Saturday.
The young Irish 'keeper made two superb point-blank stops against Gillingham but he was back to last season's line-rooted jitters on too many occasions in the second half against Brentford, and he will not want to watch a replay of the last-minute equaliser.
Adam El-Abd, who has so far performed admirably alongside Joel Lynch in the heart of the defence, might also pay the price for his culpability in failing to deal with Chris Moore's last gasp effort.
There's no doubt Henderson is a better kicker than Kuipers - with both feet.
But the former Dutch Marine deserves a run-out after impressing pre-season, and an early exchange of places would probably benefit both of them - and the team - in terms of encouraging even better performances.
Keith Lowe, brought in from Wolves as centre back cover, hasn't yet been given a start, but the Brentford result now gives McGhee the perfect excuse to give him his debut.
The highly impressive Lynch once again looked a class above his team-mates and it will be a miracle if the cash-strapped Seagulls can retain his services until the end of the season. In fact people are already saying they're nervous that he'll be snapped up before the end of the August transfer window.
The way he burst forward down the left side to cross for Gary Hart to stab in the second goal was, as the official website reported, reminiscent of the way Mark Lawrenson used to play for the Seagulls.
The similarities are not lightly bestowed upon him.
West Ham youngster Tony Stokes has shown some decent touches since his introduction but tackling is obviously not a strength and too often against Brentford he committed needless fouls. One, just outside the penalty area, led directly to O'Connor's goal from the resultant free kick (but why wasn't there a defender on the post?).
Richard Carpenter is back on form after an indifferent season in the Championship and seems to be revelling in the holding midfield role, but he needs a few more experienced heads around him to help bring on the youngsters. Dean Hammond got off the mark with a penalty after Stokes was upended in the box, but he seems uncertain of exactly where he should be playing in the new 4-1-2-3 formation.
The shaven-headed Kerry Mayo ought to be lending his experience to the youngsters but against Brentford he was once again struggling to get his own game together and with McGhee's reported enthusiasm to give Sam Rents a go, this could be another change we'll see at Nottingham.
It will also be interesting to see whether want-away Colin Kazim-Richards will return to the fold against Forest. Many of us forget he's still only a young man: there's no doubting his potential, if only he'll allow it to be harnessed in the right way. I hope he knuckles down in training this week and plays his way into the starting line-up.
It is difficult for him because Jake Robinson is looking confident and dangerous, and will have been buoyed by his winner against Gillingham.
Alex Revell is clearly enjoying a second chance at league football, but maybe now needs a game or two coming off the bench.
Gary Hart continues to give his all, as ever, but the need for a tall hold-up striker was there for all to see against Brentford.
It'll be interesting to see if that elusive player can be brought in before August 31, otherwise I fear another season of frustration after what had been a promising start.
Nick TurrellLabels: Brentford, League One, Nick Turrell
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