My take on last night is to echo what Pearson said about a professional performance. That is exactly what it was and exactly what was needed – it wasn’t an exhibition of one-touch pass and move football (apart from one move from Gilbert into Howard off to Adams and through to Fryatt who nearly scored), but it was solid, it was committed and it got the job done.
I thought the back five were excellent (again). Powell may not have the legs to provide great support going forward (although he does still put a good cross in from deep), but his positional sense is exceptional. Gilbert’s work rate and enthusiasm make up for his lack of positional sense. Hobbs and Tunchev look like a partnership now, Morrison is unlucky to be on the bench and with Kis, Mattock and Berner, we have some real strength in depth.
Dyer has clearly been our best player this season, Adams seemed to have sorted his delivery into the box last night. Both wingers worked their bollocks off which made a huge difference. Oakley is a class apart and King, while the weakest of the four in my opinion, does have some moments and does put the effort in.
Howard and Fryatt get so much stick and so much abuse it’s unbelievable. Ask any back four (with the possible exception of Millwall) that we’ve played this year whether Howard and Fryatt cause problems and I’m sure they’ll agree that they do. It’s no surprise to me that Pearson picked these two out for praise last night.
Travel to the ground was great (free shuttle bus from the station). Atmosphere was surprisingly quiet, even from our lot, but the aim of the evening was achieved. Four wins (sort of) on the bounce!