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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
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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
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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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