Castaway wrote:I'd agree. Back four & keeper all looked solid and will get better as they play more games. We didn't look likely to score from open play, and probably 0-0 would have been a fair result, because Port Vale didn't look like scoring either. First half they were slightly better, second half, we were slightly better. Nicely taken penalty and I'll take that!
I agree Keith. We've found our best back 5. Turner is looking more solid with each game, the centre back pairing is a good foil for each other and the full-backs look solid, despite Cooney having a torrid first half today against Rodney. Second half he did a lot better. Gibson barely put a foot wrong and was my man of the match. Just did his job from a defensive perspective and is a big improvement on Hendrie.
The first half reminded me of the Southend game in which we were 10-15 yards too deep in the possession and without the ball. That being said, we created the clearest chance in the first half from a well-worked corner when Gomez delivered it into Cole and he should have finished. I've been impressed with Cole in every game. He works tirelessly and holds the ball up well. He can't do it alone though so when Wildig, Phillips and co get near him for knockdowns we look productive.
Second half we edged our way into the game more and by the end we looked the more likely. The move in which their keeper saved well from Phillips involved some beautiful intricate passes and a lovely dummy from Cole.
We've beat a very good Port Vale side who will be there or thereabouts this year and second in the league. Great stuff!
To get the 3 points from a backs to the wall game like that, speaks volumes about the manager and his player's,
Second in the table doesn't flatter the achievements being made