A blistering hot day for a game on a poorly surfaced, under-sized and subsequently wrongly marked pitch. Bare 11 players which was always going to be difficult against a team challenging for the title and on a 4 match winning run. Tight pitch and poor surface didn’t suit Naas with players, who are normally comfortable on the ball turning in to trouble and being easily dispossessed. First touches that got away from us ended in possession being given away. Player’s desire and expectations seemed much lower than usual and this led to poor attitudes and subsequently some poor performances. We will have to rediscover our desire and will to win if we are going to stay in this division. Next week’s cup match is a welcome distraction.
Player ratings:
Alex (7): A willing keeper when our regular net minder had a more important engagement elsewhere! Played well and made a number of fine saves. Will be disappointed with one of the goals that snook under his body but a solid performance otherwise
Sean (7): Usual 100% input and tried until the end of his game. Caught in possession a few times and when first touch was untidy. Their wingers were a constant threat but Sean managed to block out several potentially dangerous situations.
Archie (7.5): Put a big shift in. Winger on his side a constant threat and Archie marshalled him well. Got back goal side a number of times when he looked beaten. Improved fitness will bring improved performances.
Matty (7): Captain for the day. In and out game for Mat. Didn’t dominate the back four as well as usual but still snuffed out a number of dangerous situations. Looked threatening when switched up front but still waiting for first goal.
Greg (7.5): Cool, calm and collected on ball. Tapped for pace a few times but rarely allowed opposition space to attack. Improved fitness will bring improved performances.
Paul (7): Never reached his usual dominant level. Pitch didn’t play to his strengths. Picked up an early injury which didn’t help matters. Tried until the end.
Ben (7): In and out of the game. Attitude during game is hindering performance. Again pitch didn’t help. Chased down well but didn’t offer his usual game-changing role. Late consolation goal from free kick was a screamer and doubtful any keeper at any level would have got to it.
Ken (7.5): A solid performance from someone who has not played 90 minutes for almost three years. Naturally took a few minutes to get pace of game but when he did looked assured in midfield. Never panicked and steady when going in to defence near the end.
Conor Nolan (6.5): Could have been more involved and should be using his pace and skill to get down the touchline and take players on. More belief will bring more involvement which will lead to better performances. Tight pitch a disadvantage. Switched to goals near end and not at fault for goals.
Brendan (7): Ran the line well but didn’t get a lot of good ball. Lack of match fitness and game time a little obvious. Will improve with more games and more supply from team. Needs to be vocal when free down the flank.
Aero (6.5): Lone striker and got little supply. Came deep a few times looking for ball. Seemed a little disinterested in the game. There'll be better games ahead.
