Rochford v Corinthians
5(3) v 0(0)
League
14/05/11
This Saturday we had a chance to go out playing some football against a good opponent and all I can really say is one thing we played like it was our last game, a performance of poorly hit passes and lethargy with little mind to possession or build up play, the saying season over and done comes to mind. We did miss a few player again for the second game running and we did start pointing fingers and looking for excuses but in truth lads, we played today’s games like we didn’t really understand each others game, the team play, tactics or we just didn’t care and wanted it done.
When Charlie needed to retire at half time due to a big hit, and big Karl was needed to do a job upfront for us which he done all he could, so without disrespect we were not at our strongest, a bit like after the game looking around I saw a few people missing from the pub. We had players also try to put a shift in but this was an individual effort rather than a team one and we changed tactics a few times to try and shake things up and accommodate a strong Rochford team, but all this was without effect. The score line and the feeling of defeat after the game was what we deserved, but in truth not what we should of worked for.
We made a few mistakes we got punished in the first half, this led us to be 3-0 down, we also become frustrated and forgot simple truths like communication improves play, keeping the ball works the opponents and finally the long ball is only suited to a big target man……..Which we didn’t have. Today was like watching this team last year all a bit knock and run. You are all capable of better and should have produced it. Look at the description of the goals most of them could have been avoided with a little effort; An unchallenged header from outside the box, a tap in from inside the box, a defensive mix up leading to a free strike, a short corner and finally a solo effort after the right back was exposed and put on his arse.
Lets not think for a moment it was all one way, we did create chances, we had a shot saved off the line from Kemp and Mike put in his claim for miss of the season when he headed wide when put through from Bens delightful half shot half cross in the second half. We also had long ranged shots from a host of people and I feel on possession alone the first half was fairly even, the second perhaps not so. The side on Saturday played for small periods, like pockets of football 15 mins here and then 15 minuets don’t bother etc. If we really tried and really did the basics well we would have produced a better result, your only saving grace was the fact this was the last game and you’re not playing for your position in the next game.
I’m glad to finally end this successful season, as I have mentioned earlier in the year you have a better goal average per game, more points, better defensive record, a cup final appearance and even up to the final game you were playing for some thing. This is a step towards the clubs bigger goal of securing the Premiership title. We need to make sure though we step away from the things that make this side a good cup side to a consistent league team. We all know the management have introduced a number of new players and competition for places has been on a new level. We also understand everyone has tried to be committed and focused on getting the right results. We just need to improve a couple more key areas and I feel this side can elevate again.
Our communication needs to be positive at all times without this we create more problems to solve rather than problems for our opponents. We also need to be channelling frustrations and issues all one way rather than let them be aired and effect more people than it needs too. Finally we need to remain and encourage commitment from everyone, without this I feel the side may take a large step backwards. Lets face facts the league is a hard prize to win as you need to be on top form for long periods of time, you also need to minimise bad mistakes and errors but mostly you need to understand encouragement is an incentive for your team mates and criticism is a massive demotivator.
Name
Rating
Scored
Mom
Jon
6
Perhaps at fault for two goals……..debatable. Strong and made good saves.
Ewan
6
Put on your arse for a goal, and got mixed up with the3rd
Kemp
7
Done a big job through discomfort. Missed froma combative midfield
Billy
7
Won your headers and tackles. A true centre back.
Matt
6
Seemed to be under pressure more this week, tried to link up with attack when possible
Andy
7
Ran all day, covered well. Didn’t complain just got on with it
Mike
7
Tried to forge some action going forward, strong and good vision.
Charlie
6
Won some thing from the game, a big black eye.
Jack
6
Made the surging runs, looked too comfortable
Lee B
6
Lacked match sharpness today. Isolated in the first half
Ben
6
Messi beware, Ben can turn you inside out, he just normally ends up turning into trouble rather than out……
Karl
6
Big man, big heart………big effort mate.
