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| The Sheffield Wednesday 'Massive' |
*You can scroll lower for last seasons Q&A*
** SkyBet Championship 2013-2014**
Match: Derby County, Pride Park.
Attendee: Jamie Gibbons (Twitter: @JamieGibboSWFC)
1. How was the teams overall performance? It was a shambles. Passing the ball around looked like a chore, they were playing the ball up in the air and getting closed down by the first man. Defensively very very poor and all round not great.
2. What, if any, was the games turning point? Bringing JJ on because he brought some enthusiasm but wouldn't pass the ball around - a one man band, but not good enough.
3. Who gave the Man of the Match performance in your opinion? Lewis Buxton had a good game but nobody tried helping him out and he found himself smothered but in my eyes he had a good game.
4. Who played the poorest, if anyone, for the Owls? I hate to say it but Reda - he lost the ball too many times and jogged after the ball with no intention of actually reaching his man.
5. What needs changing for our next game? The big hoof up field needs to be changed, we lose possession and our back line isn't strong enough to hold the ball back. Also Zayatte needs to be dropped and Llera brought in, he's cost us too many goals and not willing to put a good shift in. With Llera you know he will put his body on the line to help Kirkland out. Overall, lots of changes need to be made.
Match: Reading FC, Hillsborough.
Attendee: Malcolm Fox (Twitter: @malcolm_fox2)
1. How was the teams overall performance? We played in a high tempo and closed their midfield down, Seyi grew into the game and that gave us a foothold in the midfield. Fryatt and Wickham looked liked they'd played together for years - holding the ball up bringing in the wide men.Our finishing was calm and composed.
2. What, if any, was the games turning point? Our second goal - Reading started to chase the game which left them wide open at the back which Fryatt and Wickham exploited.
3. Who gave the Man of the Match performance in your opinion? This is difficult as all 11 was excellent - it would have to be between Antonio, Fryatt and Wickham.
4. Who played the poorest, if anyone, for the Owls? Seyi struglled in the first 30mins to get a grip with the pace of the game, after that he was awesome. It would be unfair to name the worst player.
5. What needs changing for our next game? No changes for the Derby match - unless they have more height up front, if so Llera for Zayatte.
***
Match: Barnsley FC, Oakwell.
Attendee: Matt Barton (Twitter: @mattbarton79)
1. How was the teams overall performance? The first half was abysmal - second to every ball and lost every challenge. A better side than Barnsley would easily have been maybe 4 up by HT. Thesecond half picked up but still overall we were poor.
2. What, if any, was the games turning point? With the risk of getting a slating, the turningpoint for was when DJ took JJ off. Nuhiu came on and for me did well & could have scored one or two.
3. Who gave the Man of the Match performance in your opinion? For me it has to be 'Mr Dependable' - Lewis Buxton. I can't recall him putting a foot wrong. Helan was full of running too.
4. Who played the poorest, if anyone, for the Owls? It kills me to say it but it has to be Reda. Although he's one of my favourites he had an awful game & never really got going.
5. What needs changing for our next game? Nuhiu has to start - which looks likely now Fryatt's gone back. I think we should use JJ more as an impact sub - I don't think he's got the legs for a full 90mins. Although Zayatte didn't do anything wrong against Barnsley I'd still like to see Llera come in next to RJ.
Match: Bolton Wanderers, Reebok Stadium.
Attendee: Js Wy (Twitter: @JimWin3003)
1. How was the teams overall performance? The overall performance was encouraging, retained possession well, had the edge in midfield and ultimately the game too.
2. What, if any, was the games turning point? The games turning point was the first early goal to Bolton, a very cheap goal. It was always going to be hard coming from a goal down away from home - without the officials making it even harder by disallowing a legitimate goal and showing a straight red card for a perfectly good tackle.
3. Who gave the Man of the Match performance in your opinion? Stephen McPhail - he's a very clever player whose forged a good career. He's always moving, wanting the ball and comfortable in possession.
4. Who played the poorest, if anyone, for the Owls? I couldn't fault any of the team - all the players put a shift in. I could see that at the end by the ovation they received whilst giving away their shirts. However, if I was pushed I'd have to say Matty Fryatt. He cut a lone figure at some stages of the game - he needed Nuhiu in support I thought.
5. What needs changing for our next game? I wouldn't change the team much - if at all. Performance levels were impressive. The only changes I would make are Llera for Zayatte and Nuhiu for Fryatt as I think Saturday was Fryatt's last game as per the loan agreement.
***
Match: Ipswich Town, Hillsborough
Attendee: Paul Newey (Twitter: @PaulSheff75)
1. How was the teams overall performance? In a nutshell - better than recent games. The passing and wide play in midfield showed a definite improvement, especially with Antonio back on the wing and although there was still a bit of the long ball, the passes were incisive and showed intent... in the first half at least. It was encouraging I thought. We were unlucky not to be 2-1 up just before half-time when Fryatt had a perfect 1 on 1 and shot straight at the keeper - anywhere else it would've been a goal. Second half we attacked the away end and we just weren't quite awake at times. Passes went astray, defenders fell asleep - and if it wasn't for a couple of Kirky's saves we'd have lost a point. When JJ came on he almost scored a screamer copy of the goal last year vs Millwall but hit the post/bar this time. So unlucky as it was a lovely run and shot and would've been a great winner.
2. What, if any, was the games turning point? Our first half goal. Unfortunately it only lasted until half-time but we started to play better and looked like we wanted it. Antonio gestured to the crowd as he finished celebrating his goal in a 'come on, lift us' manner. It helped for a time but again we're still waiting for the win. Its coming, I'm sure of that.
3. Who gave the Man of the Match performance in your opinion? I'm never very good at picking out 1 player for this award. I could pick Kirky for keeping us in the game or McPhail for his long required presence and precision in midfield. Many people have said Nuhiu covered every blade of grass and had a good game - he did put the final pass in for Antonio's goal. For me I couldn't pick one out of those three as they all played their part.
4. Who played the poorest, if anyone, for the Owls? Again difficult to say. Probably whoever cocked up and let them in for their goal, I forget exactly how it started but some have said it was from a dodgy throw-in. Maybe I blocked it out already haha!!
5. What needs changing for our next game? We are improving game by game and as Antonio said in his post-match interview, which was a pleasure to listen to, we just need that clean sheet and we'll win. Ipswich are a high scoring team and we restricted them to just one goal. Many are saying 'Jones Out!' but I still fail to see how it'll change things. Its not the right time yet in my opinion. We were in a worse position last year with our 2 losing runs and with the 4-4-2 team out yesterday we looked decent for long periods. For me Nuhiu and Fryatt up front worked well, McPhail is what we've needed in midfield and Roger Johnson in defence is a solid replacement for poor Gardner. November and December has some big dangerous teams to play but its those sides that we can raise our game against. We did it last season and we can find that form again. Its coming! Up the Owls!
***
Match: Brighton & Hove Albion, Amex.
Attendee: CorkerSWFC (Twitter: @CorkerSWFC)
1. How was the teams overall performance? I was shocked by Brighton for a start, I still can't fathom whether they played poor or we played well. It was a strange game but Wednesday didn't stop from start to finish - I have no complaints with the performance if truth be known.
2. What, if any, was the games turning point? The 89th minute goal, Wednesday held firm and had chances to seal the game - Brighton resorted to hoofball.
3. Who gave the Man of the Match performance in your opinion? Llera - he made the odd mistake but led by example and I thought he was a real soldier.
4. Who played the poorest, if anyone, for the Owls? I wouldn't say anyone played poor on the night, everyone mucked in and did their bit. The Brighton fans - the worse players poor atmosphere.
5. What needs changing for our next game? I'd play the same team, we looked good and could have been 2 or 3-0 up if we finished our chances.
Match: Doncaster Rovers, Hillsborough
Attendee: Stan (Twitter: @owl_stan )
1. How was the teams overall performance? The performance was good, you could see they were playing to each others strengths a lot more and a big improvement on Birmingham.
2. What, if any, was the games turning point? The turning point for me was just before their goal, we got sloppy not picking up players and it cost us - from then Doncaster were up for it.
3. Who gave the Man of the Match performance in your opinion? Stephen McPhail.
4. Who played the poorest, if anyone, for the Owls? Llera - he didn't seem to deal with pressure well and just hoofed it up field to nobody more often than not.
5. What needs changing for our next game? Antonio on the wing like Saturday with Maghoma getting more of a run and I'd like to see Maguire feature as well as Fryatt from the start.
***
Match: Birmingham City, St.Andrews
Attendee: dentonmartin (Twitter: @dentonmartin)
1. How was the teams overall performance? Clueless, inept and devoid of any tactical know how.
2. What, if any, was the games turning point? Walking onto the pitch! For there to be a turning point it would suggest that both sides were in some way equal.
3. Who gave the Man of the Match performance in your opinion? Kirkland by far. Without him this season it would be worse than it was.
4. Who played the poorest, if anyone, for the Owls? Antonio. I'm a big fan and think he's got a bright future. Something is not right that a player that has done so well for us has turned into the player we saw yesterday. He was the biggest disappointment as when he is on form he can change games.
5. What needs changing for our next game? Smaller picture - play a striker and give Lavery,Corry and McCabe a go. Bigger picture - nothing will change until the sale is sorted out.
***
Match:Yeovil Town, Hillsborough
Attendee: Peter Kitching (Twitter: @peterakitching)
1. How was the teams overall performance? Disjointed from start to finish, a basic inability to pass and move, player throwing their arms up in the air during the game because of frustration with other team members, arguing during the match summed up by JJ and Antonio having a pop at Maghoma after the final whistle.
2. What, if any, was the games turning point? Don't really think there was a turning point we were poor from the start and I don't think we would've scored if Yeovil hadn't stopped to appeal for offside. The sending off should have been the turning point but we failed to capitalise on playing a team who had lost their previous four games and played the entire second half with 10 men. We couldn't keep the ball and when we gifted possession to Yeovil they made it look like we were a man down by keeping possession. We failed to press them or keep the ball when we were in possession and we didn't make them work by moving the ball around and making them chase the ball.
3. Who gave the Man of the Match performance in your opinion? Kirkland performed to his usual high standard and was again left exposed when we failed to close down their man on the edge of the box and let him have a clear sight of goal and a free hit.
4. Who played the poorest, if anyone, for the Owls? Only Kirkland looked good - Antonio looke particularly poor but I think he's suffering from being played up top instead of out wide. He set up the goal when he was effectively cutting in from the left and set up Nuhiu perfectly, playing his natural game.
5. What needs changing for our next game? I'd love it if we signed a striker and played 2 of JJ/Antonio/Helan wide,with a striker and Nuhiu up front. Short of signing a striker I don't know. Nuhiu isn't a target man as such so 4-5-1 won't work. Nuhiu is ok as a link man but hitting long balls to him to knock on won't work... I do have some sympathy for Dave Jones!!
***
Match: Middlesbrough, Riverside
Attendee: Connor Thorpe (Twitter: @ConnorTSWFC)
1. How was the teams overall performance? As usual with Wednesday, a game of 2 halves. First half we actually got the ball down and played on the floor quite a bit and looked threatening, second half they came out of the blocks quickly and got the momentum, which we couldn't get back.
2. What, if any, was the games turning point? Turning point was half time, I suspect Tony Mowbray gave the home side a rollicking and it showed in the second half - they were on the front foot straight away.
3. Who gave the Man of the Match performance in your opinion? No-one stands out straight away but Reda was a handful from set-pieces while remaining pretty solid at the back, he's improved that side of his game.
4. Who played the poorest, if anyone, for the Owls? Again no-one was awful but Palmer didn't seem to offer much on the right, but he's a young lad who needs to learn the game at championship level - plus he isn't a winger so its not a dig at him.
5. What needs changing for our next game? Start Maghoma on the wing, get him and Antonio exchanging sides to keep Yeovil guessing. Maghoma adds more flair and creativity - he deserves a chance. As does McCabe - comfortable on the ball and will help us keep possession.
***
Match: Millwall, Hillsborough
Attendee: Rob Bull (Twitter: @robbull87)
1. How was the teams overall performance? The overall performance was underwhelming. A game of two halves, the first half we were attacking and opening up a poor side and looked as though we would score when we went forward. The second half we sat back and looked too comfortable and as though it was job done.
2. What, if any, was the games turning point? DJ changing the formation to 4-5-1 a half time. Switching this stopped our flow and Nuhiu became isolated up top. With no support it was difficult to create any chances and our CMs didn't win any second balls.
3. Who gave the Man of the Match performance in your opinion? For me the MOM would have been Giles Coke, he broke up play nicely in the first half and had a chance. Second half he was literally on his own in midfield. Prutton was running away from the ball a lot and Semedo's positioning was truly awful.
4. Who played the poorest, if anyone, for the Owls? Poorest player would be harshly Prutton -we lost the CM battle in the second half and many a time he was sat in CD. He runs away too much.
5. What needs changing for our next game? JJis back thankfully, we need some creation in CM so if I'm honest Palmer to CM and remove Prutton. I'm not a Prutton hater but the guy is lost.
(Rob is also an SWFC blogger and you can visit his site HERE)
(Rob is also an SWFC blogger and you can visit his site HERE)
Match: Leeds United, Elland Road
Attendee: Simon Morris (Twitter: @BigAl_simon)
1. How was the teams overall performance? Massive improvement from last week, 25 minute spell Leeds hammered us - other than that, very happy. The first half was the best I've seen in ages.
2. What, if any, was the games turning point? Half time turned it - Leeds came out after the break and were all over us for 25mins. Then 2nd turning point was Reda coming on and he lifted the entire team and fans.
3. Who gave the Man of the Match performance in your opinion? Defence as a whole were much more solid, but Helan playing out of position sneaked it for me. Coke was good as always but tired towards the end again.
4. Who played the poorest, if anyone, for the Owls? Maguire was poor, which was a shame as he deserved his start after almost turning the game last week.
5. What needs changing for our next game? Not much to change, limited options kill us - for me Maguire out for Reda, Antonio up top and Reda and Helan on the left. The one thing that was apparent is we lacked real quality in midfield and miss a goalscorer. All in, many more positives than negatives.
***
Match: Burnley FC, Hillsborough
Attendee: Chris Brown (Twitter: @superchris57)
1. How was the teams overall performance? We started off quite well, I thought. Lots of attacking moves. The final 1/3 play let us down with wasted shots on goal. How we rued those after Burnley scored 2 easy goals. After we went behind it was always going to be a struggle. The crowd was very quiet and didn't find their voice again until after Pruttons goal. He took it well and it looked like it gave us some hope. We are however lacking an out and out goal scorer, eg; Lita.
2. What, if any, was the games turning point? Probably after their first goal, it just took the impetus out of our play.
3. Who gave the Man of the Match performance in your opinion? Though he didn't play the full 90 minutes, I thought Maguire - when he came on he showed how good he can be.
4. Who played the poorest, if anyone, for the Owls? Didn't think Gardner had a good match, we missed Reda and Llera in defence! Buxton is a huge miss at the moment - the whole defence looked at sea at points in the game.
5. What needs changing for our next game? We need to capitalise on chances instead of squandering them, if we'd have taken at least one of the misses it might have been a different result. Jones has openly said there'll be no Madine for choice before the next match, the subject of striker is always going to be up for discussion, though Nuhiu is a tall lad and did look like he'd be a player for the future, he's not match fit and showed it in the end.
***
Match: Rotherham United, New York Stadium (Capital One Cup)
Attendee: Jay Passfield (Twitter: @JayJay_SWFC)
1. How was the teams overall performance? Good game, most players played well but some was lacking in performance and composure.
2. What, if any, was the games turning point? Rhys McCabes goal put us back into the game with a fighting chance but as soon as Jermaine Johnson got sent off we knew we had lost it all.
3. Who gave the Man of the Match performance in your opinion? Rhys McCabe - he took every chance he got, played 100% effort, 100% composure - had a great game!
4. Who played the poorest, if anyone, for the Owls? Adthe Nuhiu was the poorest, unfit and played, never getting on the end of good balls that are through on goal.
5. What needs changing for our next game? Need to sort a team that can get into the groove of passing the ball around without giving it away and get a good shot on target.
***
Match: Queens Park Rangers, Loftus Road
Attendee: Ian Burkinshaw (Twitter: @burky1980)
1. How was the teams overall performance? We played very well overall, looked very promising for the upcoming season. We can take a lot of positives from it, just a few decisions and that lack of clinical finishing that stopped us getting a result and of course the 3 or 4 excellent saves from Kirkland.
2. What, if any, was the games turning point? We shut down after they scored and totally forgot what we were doing which let them get an early second. There were a few clear cut penalties that weren't given as well but don't want to mention them! The injury to Mattock and having to change the defence didn't help us out either.
3. Who gave the Man of the Match performance in your opinion? Kirkland for his performance but there was a lot of good showings from others out there.
3. Who gave the Man of the Match performance in your opinion? Kirkland for his performance but there was a lot of good showings from others out there.
4. Who played the poorest, if anyone, for the Owls? There wasn't a bad performance I don't think, a few tired legs late on but nothing getting close to a bad performance.
5. What needs changing for our next game? We need to bring in some fullback cover with Mattock, Buxton and Reda out injured and maybe a strike partner for Nuhiu - other than that, nothing really.
*** nPower Championship 2012-2013 starts here! ***
Match: Middlesbrough FC, Hillsborough
Attendee: Gary Slinn (Twitter: @Gary_Slinn)
1. How was the teams overall performance? The overall performance was much better than vs Peterborough! We showed desire and commitment.
2. What, if any, was the games turning point? Not really a turning point but JJ's first run showed the intention of the team - the goal settled the nerves.
3. Who gave the Man of the Match performance in your opinion? Buxton and Pugh did well. Steve Howard did well too and took his goal well.
3. Who gave the Man of the Match performance in your opinion? Buxton and Pugh did well. Steve Howard did well too and took his goal well.
4. Who played the poorest, if anyone, for the Owls? I don't think anyone was poor - sorry!
5. What needs changing for our next game? We need pace desperately! Once JJ had gone we didn't scare them half as much.
***
Match: Peterborough United, London Road
Attendee: 'We Will Stay Up' (Twitter: @ethanrob0205)
1. How was the teams overall performance? The performance was really bad - I can't really find anything good about it. We went too defensive then just hoofed the ball up front, we needed to pass it on the floor.
2. What, if any, was the games turning point? In the second half it got a bit better when he put Lita on but he missed some chances that he should have scored.
3. Who gave the Man of the Match performance in your opinion? I would say Lewis Buxton is MoM because he was always in good space for the ball to get played to him. He was running up and down the wings too to help the strikers.
3. Who gave the Man of the Match performance in your opinion? I would say Lewis Buxton is MoM because he was always in good space for the ball to get played to him. He was running up and down the wings too to help the strikers.
4. Who played the poorest, if anyone, for the Owls? Gary Madine was our worst player - he came on and didn't do anything, he wasn't winning anything up there and getting pushed over way too easily. Jones should't have taken Howard off for him.
5. What needs changing for our next game? For the next game I think we just need a simple formation like 4-4-2, Howard & Lita up front - or if we can stick as many needles as possible into JJ and Reda, get JJ up front. We can't go too defensive either, we need to play for the win.
***
Match: Ipswich Town, Hillsborough
Attendee: Darren Haigh (Twitter: @dazza_swfc4ever)
1. How was the teams overall performance? Poor first half but 2nd had a right good go and was unlucky not to win.
2. What, if any, was the games turning point? The turning point was bringing the big man Steve Howard on - they could not deal with him. He caused them problems and linked up with midfield well - for this he was MoM.
3. Who gave the Man of the Match performance in your opinion? Steve Howard for the above points.
4. Who played the poorest, if anyone, for the Owls? Poorest has to be Pugh - he was caught out of position so many times and on another day he would have cost us!
5. What needs changing for our next game? What changes... well we missed Reda for his height in both boxes but the main thing is a complete performance not just a good 45mins.
***
Match: Blackpool, Bloomfield Road
Attendee: Jake 'JB4' Benson (Twitter: @jakebensonswfc)
1. How was the teams overall performance? I thought we played quite well given the conditions, we started off well and should have been 0-3 up after 5 minutes. I thought Howard played his socks off and must have covered 10 miles with all his pressing! Defence was solid and the team kept shape really well. The referee ruined the game in my opinion - he was awful.
2. What, if any, was the games turning point? I wouldn't say there was really a turning point in the game, it was a stop/start game with a lot of fouls and stoppages with the ref talking to players - if there was one I'd say it was missing those chances early on because Blackpool came more into the game after then.
3. Who gave the Man of the Match performance in your opinion? This is a hard one, Steve Howard was leading by example at the top but I'd have to say Lewis Buxton neutralised the threat from Tom Ince all night and had him in his pocket so for that reason I'd say him.
4. Who played the poorest, if anyone, for the Owls? I thought all of the team played OK - but I'd have to say Prutton didn't really seem to have an impact on the game very much, so for that reason I'd say him. However, that by no means was a poor performance given the conditions.
5. What needs changing for our next game? If everyone was fit bar Antonio I'd bring in Madine for Howard, Lee for Holden, Reda for Pugh and Olofinjana for Prutton. This would be to freshen the squad up more than anything. I'd like to see Maguire get a start but don't think you can play him and JJ up front.
***
Match: Leeds United, Elland Road
Attendee: Joe Pickford (Twitter: @joe_pickford)
1. How was the teams overall performance? I thought the performance was a stand out story of 2 halves. First half I thought it was a solid performance, stand out players being JJ and Buxton. JJ caused the Leeds defence problems dropping off their shoulders, receiving the ball and running at them. As for Mr Consistent (Buxton) he was as solid as normal, didn't give their winger much space.
2. What, if any, was the games turning point? Without a shadow of a doubt when McDermott brought on Diouf. He completely and utterly controlled the game but it didn't help with how far back we sat due to DJ's second half tactics..
3. Who gave the Man of the Match performance in your opinion? I have one or two MOMs. One being Kirkland, again. Some super saves and if it wasn't for him they would have put another 5 past us. He couldn't help the 2 Luke Varney goals as that was down to poor defending not dealing with simple balls into the box. My other MOM was Buxton for the reasons I gave earlier.
4. Who played the poorest, if anyone, for the Owls? The poorest performer was Prutton, he isn't good enough at this level. It baffles me how McCabe doesn't get in front of him - Prutton never wants the ball and it makes it hard for people around him to work well. If Jones wants him to play as a stopper - USE SEMEDO. Leeds central midfielders Norris and Austin ran rings around him and Coke but I think everyone could see Coke wasn't fit.
5. What needs changing for our next game? The changes I would make is to do what we did in the first half all the way through the game, its not rocket science - Leeds pressed higher up the pitch, that is true - and it made it difficult but we could have done more of a job closing down etc. Changes I would make would be to drop Lita and give Maguire a chance. Hopefully Olofinjana will be back, if so I'd play him and Holden or McCabe.
***
Match: Millwall FC, The Den
Attendee: Karl Johnstone (Twitter: @KarlJohnstone_x)
1. How was the teams overall performance? The overall performance was solid. Although we got off to a very poor start and were lacklustre for the first 20-25mins, we stuck at it and grew in confidence. That was probably the most pleasing part of the performance - the fact we were confident enough to be more attack minded away from home against a team on a good run.
2. What, if any, was the games turning point? The games turning point for me was when JJ was introduced. He seemed to give the team something extra that we didn't have on the pitch before he came on. He had a great run and shot which went just past the post and we just looked a lot more of a threat after he came on - especially on the break.
3. Who gave the Man of the Match performance in your opinion? The MoM for Wednesday for me was Miguel Llera. He was extremely solid at the heart of the back four and he played very well. He and Gardners partnership is very strong and I hope he gets a contract extension in the summer.
4. Who played the poorest, if anyone, for the Owls? Its hard to pick a poorest performer, but for me it would be Leroy Lita. He misplaced a few very simple passes and was ineffective for most of the game. He really didn't do much which came as a big disappointment.
5. What needs changing for our next game? I don't think there are any drastic changesto make for the Leeds game, we were very professional against Millwall and hopefully we can replicate that kind of performance on Saturday, which I believe will give us a great chance of three points ... UTO!!
***
Match: Blackburn Rovers, Hillsborough
Attendee: Adam Butler (Twitter: @AdamButler96)
1. How was the teams overall performance? Despite the scoreline, poor in parts by both teams - but some of the football was nice, flowing stuff. Nice to see the lads interchanging.
2. What, if any, was the games turning point? I'd have to say the award of our penalty - it gave the crowd a lift after the equaliser and really made the Blackburn heads drop and killed off any threat of an equaliser before half time.
3. Who gave the Man of the Match performance in your opinion? Only one option really - JJ. He looked so up for the game from the off and it was strange to see him just walk through their side from kick-off. I don't know if its because of his connection with Bolton, but he really wanted it and deserved both goals - which were beautifully taken and surprisingly composed from him!
4. Who played the poorest, if anyone, for the Owls? I was disappointed by Helan on Saturday - he left Reda on his own down the left side on a couple of occasions and lacked a quality final ball which could be crucial down the wings..
5. What needs changing for our next game? I don't think I'd change much for the Millwall game - I know DJ tends to switch to a 4-5-1 for away games but I just feel as though it could be a mistake and I'd like to see us go at them. Especially with them playing at Wembley this weekend; they really could be there for the taking.
***
Match: Bristol City, Ashton Gate
Attendee: Greg (Twitter: @liveforeverr)
1. How was the teams overall performance? Very poor - sat too far back and gave the ball away too easily. Didn't deserve the win.
2. What, if any, was the games turning point? It was JJ going off as we didn't really have another outlet to scare their defence.
3. Who gave the Man of the Match performance in your opinion? Either JJ (but only played 55mins) or Howard - he held the ball up well and set JJ up. But probably Gardner as he's been solid like all season.
4. Who played the poorest, if anyone, for the Owls? Poorest was the 3 midfielders - they gave the ball away too easily and panicked near the end. We need Olofinjana back as soon as possible.
5. What needs changing for our next game? Need Olofinjana and Holden back. Madine up front with possibly Howard. Lee played well and deserves to play but bring Buxton back at RB and maybe drop Helan and play JJ on the left. Helan doesn't help Reda out enough and doesn't play with his head up enough.
***
Match: Barnsley FC, Hillsborough
Attendee: Kieron Jones (Facebook: Kieron Jones)
1. How was the teams overall performance? The overall performance was ok - not brilliant. If it was a stronger team (than Barnsley) they probably would of caught us out in midfield
2. What, if any, was the games turning point? The games turning point was the goal - it looked obvious that who scored first would gain the momentum and relax a bit more.
3. Who gave the Man of the Match performance in your opinion? Got to be Gary Madine, not just for his goal but he wanted to win every ball and really run his socks off.
4. Who played the poorest, if anyone, for the Owls? I would say Holden, not because he was poor just that he never was really in the game. To be honest I think match fitness didn't help him.
5. What needs changing for our next game? Well midfield need to get on the ball a lot more and keep a nice line of 4 in there as I said if it was a stronger opponent then they would have punished us in midfield.
***
Match: Cardiff City, Hillsborough
Attendee: Daniel Laird (Twitter: @DanielLairdSWFC)
1. How was the teams overall performance? 1st 20mins were ok - we made some good chances, after that we were poor, seemed to run out of ideas & were frustrated by Cardiff's tactics..
2. What, if any, was the games turning point? 1st goal, conceded late in the 1st half & knocked the stuffing out of the players & fans. Upto that neither team threatened to score.
3. Who gave the Man of the Match performance in your opinion? For me, Chris Maguire. He looked lively when he came on and put himself about - as he has on the previous occasions I've seen him.
4. Who played the poorest, if anyone, for the Owls? Hard to say - Helan went quiet after 20mins, Lita struggled with us playing 'route 1'... poor all over the pitch.
5. What needs changing for our next game? Replace Antonio is the priority. I'd start Maguire and give him a chance, could be a good foil for Lita.
***
Match: Leicester City, King Power Stadium
Attendee: John Dyson (Twitter: @WestMidlandsOwl)
1. How was the teams overall performance? The performance was good. Against one of the divisions best teams (on paper at least) we more than held our own.
2. What, if any, was the games turning point? The goal - before then the two sides were evenly matched.
3. Who gave the Man of the Match performance in your opinion? Chris Kirkland - kept us in it throughout..
4. Who played the poorest, if anyone, for the Owls? No-one really, though Leroy Lita missed a couple of good chances.
5. What needs changing for our next game? I'd stick with a winning team against another top team 4-5-1 worked. Hopefully DJ has something in mind if Connor Wickham has to go back though. It really was a cracking result - I'm still buzzing!
***
Match: Watford FC, Vicarage Road
Attendee: Chris Allen (Twitter: @NottinghamOwl)
1. How was the teams overall performance? Up until half-time it was one of the best away performances of the season but felt we always needed the 2nd goal. We sat too deep for 15mins in the 2nd half and it cost us.
2. What, if any, was the games turning point? There were 2 turning points for me, firstly at 0-1 up we had a clear hand-ball not given & the ball also appeared to cross the line. Secondly the introduction of Forestieri seemed to galvanise the opposition.
3. Who gave the Man of the Match performance in your opinion? Kieran Lee.
4. Who played the poorest, if anyone, for the Owls? All played well, Wickham has been singled out for some unfair criticism as I thought he played well in the 1st half but needs a goal.
5. What needs changing for our next game? Thought DJ got the tactics spot on & no changes for Leicester if all the players are fit. If Coke is injured then McCabe to start. UTO!!
***
Match: Nottingham Forest, Hillsborough
Attendee: Trigger! (Twitter: @LiamSwfc96)
1. How was the teams overall performance? The first half was very poor. We never turned up and was outclassed. Reid controlled the game and ran the midfield, they created chances too easily and very poor defending for the winning goal.
2. What, if any, was the games turning point? Blackstock should have been sent off for an elbow on Miguel Llera.In the second half we improved a lot - we looked a better side and created more chances. We should have had 2 penalties and deserved a point at the end. They wasted time for most of the second half.
3. Who gave the Man of the Match performance in your opinion? Probably Helan but no-one really stood out that much.
4. Who played the poorest, if anyone, for the Owls? Prutton was quite poor and outplayed in the 1st half. A lot of the players never turned up, Antonio was also poor - he looks tired and needs a rest.
5. What needs changing for our next game? We should go with the Hull team and tactics for the game at Watford, on Saturdays performance we won't get anything out of the next 3 games (Watford, Leicester & Cardiff)
***
Match: Crystal Palace, Hillsborough
Attendee: Massive SWFC (Twitter: @Massive_SWFC)
1. How was the teams overall performance? Ok first half, second half theirs
2. What, if any, was the games turning point? Turning point I think when Zaha was rules out!.
3. Who gave the Man of the Match performance in your opinion? Miguel Llera
4. Who played the poorest, if anyone, for the Owls? Not keen on Danny Pugh LB
5. What needs changing for our next game? Jeremy Helan must start, pace & ability.
***
Match: Birmingham City, St. Andrews
Attendee: Martin Randerson (Twitter: @mvrander)
1. How was the teams overall performance? Overall performance was scrappy but it was a must lose match in my eyes and we did that. We looked to lack composure, especially in the final third and we lacked a real link to the front two.
2. What, if any, was the games turning point? No real turning point but the Zigic miss was crucial.
3. Who gave the Man of the Match performance in your opinion? Probably Martin Taylor for me, I was fearing the worst when Anthony Gardner was out but Taylor had a good game. Shouts for David Prutton and Miguel Llera putting in good shifts aswel.
4. Who played the poorest, if anyone, for the Owls? Probably Jeremy Helan - it wasn't a bad performance but made some strange decisions. Michail Antonio looked tired and nothing quite fell for Leroy Lita.
5. What needs changing for our next game? The 2 up front with two deep midfielders leaves us with a real problem linking up play if the wingers are not on their game or get doubled up on. We've had a good run based on stability and not over-committing from midfield or full-back positions but the height of Connor Wickham makes longer balls too tempting when the gap to the front 2 is so large. Crying out for some ball carrying from midfield, either from the wing or through Giles Coke
***
Match: Derby County, Hillsborough
Attendee: Jason Gibson (Twitter: @Jase_Owl)
1. How was the teams overall performance? Overall performance was OK. I thought we played pretty well in 2nd half after a poor 1st half. Thought we would have gone for the winner once we got that second goal.
2. What, if any, was the games turning point? I think the turning point was in the 2nd half when Derby got that penalty - it seemed to kick us into action.
3. Who gave the Man of the Match performance in your opinion? In my opinion it was Giles Coke - he didn't put a foot wrong, was calm and ran the midfield at times.
4. Who played the poorest, if anyone, for the Owls? For me, it was Miguel Llera - every time he passed the ball forward out of the back 4 we lost possession.
5. What needs changing for our next game? I'd start Connor Wickham alongside Leroy Lita and move Michail Antonio back to the wing in place of Kieran Lee.
***
Match: Brighton & Hove Albion, Hillsborough.
Attendee: Walkley - from OwlsOnline (Twitter: @walkers1867)
1. How was the teams overall performance? I thought we played well and deserved the win, we weathered the storm after our goal and took advantage after their ill discipline.
2. What, if any, was the games turning point? Definitely the red card - they had put pressure on but that completely altered the game, we took advantage straight away.
3. Who gave the Man of the Match performance in your opinion? Kieran Lee was very close to winning this but i'm going for Giles Coke - he grafted ever so hard.
4. Who played the poorest, if anyone, for the Owls? Difficult call but i'll go for Lewis Buxton - out of character for him but cost us the goal.
5. What needs changing for our next game? Changes? None at present as you don't alter a winning side but should big Reda be available I'd bring him back. Really enjoyed Saturday too!
***
Match: Charlton Athletic, The Valley.
Attendee: Liam (Twitter: @LiamSwfc96)
1. How was the teams overall performance? Wednesday looked strong throughout the game. They dominated the 1st half and Reda should have scored but missed a sitter from a few yards. They never sat back when we conceded and continued to get at Charlton and cause them problems with the pace of JJ & Antonio and Lita coming on.
2. What, if any, was the games turning point? The match turning point was when Scott Wagstaff hit the post when it could have put Charlton 2-0 ahead. That's when Wednesday started to push to get back into the game.
3. Who gave the Man of the Match performance in your opinion? Everyone had a quality game but Coke was man of the match in my view. Kept the ball ticking and won the midfield battle. Buxton was consistent again and put some excellent balls into the box. JJ was quality with his runs and cause loads of problems which Charlton struggled to deal with. Pugh had a quiet game but his passes were effective and has a quality left foot.
4. Who played the poorest, if anyone, for the Owls? Not one player had a bad game. They all stuck together and all put a shift in.
5. What needs changing for our next game? Changes for the next game would be to go for it like the last 10mins of the Charlton game with JJ & Antonio on the wings and Lita & Madine up front together. It was overall a very good performance for them and a cracking away day for the travelling 2000 fans - UTO!
***
Match: Wolverhampton Wanderers, Hillsborough.
Attendee: Paul Jones (Twitter: @northanstonowl)
1. How was the teams overall performance? Very good performance - great to see the lads giving each other options instead of stood like statues.
2. What, if any, was the games turning point? Had Madine come on earlier he could have possibly got a goal.
3. Who gave the Man of the Match performance in your opinion? MOM is Buxton for me - solid as always.
4. Who played the poorest, if anyone, for the Owls? JJ although involved lacked quality - threw 2 points away.
5. What needs changing for our next game? Next game we must find back of the net! Like the way we are playing at minute though, just need a goalscorer.
***
Match: MK Dons, Stadium:MK (FA Cup Third Round Replay)
Attendee: Paul Whitaker (Twitter: @Dunsbyowl)
1. How was the teams overall performance? I traveled with the East Midlands Owls - we were all looking forward to the game after the euphoria following the Hull result but the performance was disappointing and there was little to cheer in the soulless Stadium:MK. I haven't a problem with the management "concentrating on the league" but we had been told we were taking the FA Cup seriously & its a shame that decent win could have kept the momentum going & boosted morale among the players & fans. Its also worrying that having made 7 changes from the Hull game its clear a number of the squad/fringe players were struggling against lower league opposition. Its easy to speculate that our first team would have won easily but I don't think MK Dons were particularly very good. SWFC did play some decent football in the 1st half but again the absence of a decent striker is letting us down.The penalty left us chasing the game again & we didn't have the resources to claw it back. I thought the match officials again were poor & thats an issue the FA should address. Overall I felt a bit short-changed & I think the 1300 travelling SWFC fans deserved a bit more. There were a few players on the pitch who could've proved their ability, commitment & pride to wear our shirt.
2. What, if any, was the games turning point? Either JJ having to go off injured - he could have torn them apart, or the penalty decision. I haven't seen it again but it was a tug by Buxton but it was weak & far worse went unpunished. SWFC probably finished the stronger in the 1st half but were frustrated & once the second went in we were well out of the game.
3. Who gave the Man of the Match performance in your opinion? I've been thinking long & hard about a MOM but none of them shone. Lee was having another solid game & always looked confident & assured on the ball. Antonio who replaced him was the only one who looked like he may produce the unexpected.
4. Who played the poorest, if anyone, for the Owls? I don't like singling poor players out but some of our squad players were having a very off night - or are just not good enough. Pecnik didn't have a great game & nothing I've seen leads you to believe he has the ability to succeed at this level. Taylor makes me nervous & isn't commanding enough. Madine had another chance to show what he can do & doesn't seem to have the strength to deal with Championship centre-backs. I really want him to succeed but I think DJ's patience is running out.
5. What needs changing for our next game? This is an easy one, revert back to the team that won at Hull hoping morale can be restored & the players & fans aren't too deflated by this forgettable, freezing cold night in Milton Keynes.
***
Match: Hull City, KC Stadium.
Attendee: Lee Lucas (Twitter: @leelucas28)
1. How was the teams overall performance? This was easily the best so far this campaign, the fact that it wasn't a "recognised" setup & they just got on with it showed to me that anyone who thinks Dave Jones has lost the dressing room is a million miles away from the truth, every single player played their part and carried out their role to the letter - i'm convinced there were players on the pitch who must have raised an eyebrow at the team without a recognised striker and Giles Coke starting after so long out and away on loan etc, but there was no sign of disagreement, no signs of disbelief - they trusted the managers call implicitly & simply got on with the job in hand. 'Galvanised' is my word for that performance.
2. What, if any, was the games turning point? This is an interesting question because it should have been Faye not being sent off or even booked unbelievably that two footed challenge is a sending off (wrongly in my opinion) by the letter of the law, 99 times out of 100. That should have told Hull & their fans that this was their day, but it failed to work that way. For me, it was the save from Kirkland from Korens shot - 2 reasons for me. It was Lleras first error of the game and usually this season he's been punished for every single one, this week he got away with it and was re-energised by the confidence and/or belief that came with the save. Secondly, I believe the doubts would have set in, on & off the pitch for both sides & I think Hull could've been spurred on to a different result. Pleased for Llera above all else & Kirkland as a shot stopper is second to none in this division and that confidence is starting to tell.
3. Who gave the Man of the Match performance in your opinion? This is a very difficult call, Reda was immense going forward & did very little wrong defensively, he brings with his presence a certain quiet confidence that money can't buy & it filters through the team. Kieran Lee had another astute game again, he's a cleverer footballer than first few displays showed. JJ caused panic as he shaped to shoot whenever the opportunity arose and that creates doubt amongst the opposition & gaps elsewhere on the pitch as two or three players rush to close him down - these gaps haven't been created in recent weeks. Five or six players warranted the accolade but personally i'd give it to Coke. Out on loan, seemingly not in anyone's plans at the club & he comes back into the starting lineup & remember we did have other options, he put more than an adequate performance in. He put a foot in to stop that pass from midfield thats been destroying us recently, he protected his defence, he supplied AND backed up his forwards & lets not forget he scored a perfectly good goal. The reaction to that goal told me all I need to know about Coke's passion for the game & for the pride of wearing our shirt, others are entitled to disagree but for football reasons alone I'm more than comfortable giving Coke the MOM.
4. Who played the poorest, if anyone, for the Owls? After a game, performance & day that will live long in the memory-bank I'm not comfortable talking about poorest performer to be honest but in the interest of searching for perfection (surely the end goal) lets give it a go! Every player played their part fully and nobody ducked the job in hand, which lets face it was a big ask on paper & with it being on Sky some (many) fearing the worst, however based on the fact that for me he's been a revelation since joining & I'd love for him to sign permanently - Jeremy Helans performance was one not as fluid as it has been in recent games. That's not a criticism & I'm not saying he had a bad game but he's set himself a very high standard which I'm sure he will live up to. That coupled with a clumsy avoidable penalty & the fact the whole team excelled I'm going for him.
5. What needs changing for our next game? I'm a firm believer in never changing a winning side & that performances, time on pitch & results breed belief & confidence. Whatever competition you're playing in, you should set out with your best side & play for a win, so with the FA Cup game as the next game I'm not going to alter my answer from if it was a league game. I'd start with the same starting lineup as against Hull, Rhys McCabes illness depending of course - although Semedo did well when he came on, we weren't as fluid & dangerous as with Rhys in the side. We also looked like we could go backs-to-the-wall during the second half with Jose instead of Rhys on the ball. I liked the pace of the 2 front men & they both looked like they had goals in them, sometimes out of a crisis rises a solution... remember Warhurst?! So my very simple belief is - if possible - start with the same side. If Jones doesn't really want to progress in the cup then my sentiments remain for Saturdays game against Wolves but I have a sneaky feeling that Mr Jones would love a cup run & a tilt at one of the big boys - he's got a few points to prove you know? Thanks for Saturday boys!
***
Match: MK Dons, Hillsborough (FA Cup 3rd Round).
Attendee: Alan Maplo SWFC (Twitter: @Maplo16)
1. How was
the teams overall performance? Overall we were pretty poor. Over-run in midfield for large
portions of the game.
2. What,
if any, was the games turning point? No real turning point, it was turgid from
the off.
3. Who
gave the Man of the Match performance in your opinion? Owls MOM had to be between Bywater
& Llera. Probably Bys - couple of good saves to keep it nil nil, although
Llera did well.
4. Who
played the poorest, if anyone, for the Owls? A few. Mattock looked out of his depth,
Prutton was poor, but prob Sidibe was worse - he never held it up and kept
losing possession.
5. What
needs changing for our next game? I'd have made more ahead of this match,
but for Saturday Kirks and Helan will come back. Can't see anymore unless we
bring someone in.
***
Match: Burnley FC, Hillsborough.
Attendee: Joe Littlewood (Twitter: @joelittlewood)
1. How was
the teams overall performance? Very organised. Burnley came to frustrate, playing it along
the back and trying to draw us out but players stuck to their jobs. The effect
was a boring spectacle with few chances. Owls look toothless in final third and
a frustrated Antonio took a couple of shots when a pass would have been a
better option. All in all, we've played a lot worse this season - the
difference was Burnley got the first goal.
2. What,
if any, was the games turning point? Treacy's goal. It both knocked the
stuffing out of us and gave them the confidence to start knocking it around and
frustrate the home fans.
3. Who
gave the Man of the Match performance in your opinion? I thought Lee was superb in the first
half, he never panicked and played his way out of trouble with a confidence
beyond his years. For his overall performance though, I have to say McCabe.
Couple of poor set pieces but apart from that he looked composed and wanted the
ball all the time, tackled well, linked well with Lee and kept going right to
the death.
4. Who
played the poorest, if anyone, for the Owls? It would be too easy to say Sidibe, but I
think I was most disappointed in Prutton. He never seemed in the game, all his
passes and shots were misplaced. McCabe ended up doing the job of 2 CMs...
Prutton was eventually replaced.
5. What
needs changing for our next game? Changes are needed up front, but I don't
think we have the players required in our squad. Need a forward with pace and
poachers instinct not a wide-man played out of position. After Lee finished the
game alongside McCabe in CM it would be interesting to see how this works from
the beginning of a game, with the cup match an ideal opportunity. I'd also take
the chance to give Rodri a run out instead of playing Antonio out of position.
My team would be: Kirkland, Buxton-Gardner-Llera-Reda, JJ-McCabe-Lee-Antonio,
COG-Rodri.
***
Match: Huddersfield Town, John Smiths Stadium.
Attendee: Chris Brown (Twitter: @superchris57)
1. How was
the teams overall performance? More cohesive team performance. Defense looks much
stronger.
2. What,
if any, was the games turning point? The ref missing he booked Helan twice!
3. Who
gave the Man of the Match performance in your opinion? For me, Chris Kirkland. He made at least 2
point blank saves.
4. Who
played the poorest, if anyone, for the Owls? Thats hard because I don't think anyone
was really poor.
5. What
needs changing for our next game? I wouldn't play Madine in that lone
striker role.
***
Match: Bolton Wanderers, The Reebok Stadium.
Attendee: The Wednesday Cricket Club (Twitter:
@TheWednesdayCC)
1. How was
the teams overall performance? Best defensive performance of the season
2. What,
if any, was the games turning point? Buxtons left-foot cross for the goal.
3. Who
gave the Man of the Match performance in your opinion? Lewis Buxton.
4. Who
played the poorest, if anyone, for the Owls? No-one.
5. What
needs changing for our next game? As its another away game, no changes.
***
Match: Charlton Athletic FC, Hillsborough
1. How was
the teams overall performance? OO: Much improved, great to keep a clean sheet, first goal
was vital! Still some frailties but we are getting there! BO: I
thought Wednesday played very well particularly in the first half. We were
solid and worked hard in the second half, deserved the win.
2. What,
if any, was the games turning point? OO: Rhys McCabes stunning strike for the
first goal, what an amazing strike - lets hope for more like that!
BO: The first goal was the turning point, we needed to be in a
leading positiion and a goal like that took the sting out of Charlton for a
while.
3. Who
gave the Man of the Match performance in your opinion? OO: Lots of contenders - Prutton held
midfield together, O'Grady led the line well, but i'm going for McCabe,
fantastic! BO: All had great games but McCabe for MOM he was
brilliant. His movement & passing was great. He reminds me of Glenn Whelan
when he was at SWFC.
4. Who
played the poorest, if anyone, for the Owls? OO: I know its a cop out, but I don't like
slating players, so I'm going to say none, good all round performance.
BO: I don't think anyone stood out as the worst player, everyone did
their job!
5. What
needs changing for our next game? OO: To be totally honest I'd stick with
the same starting 11, why change a winning team? BO: I think we
will probably stick with a similar team, but DJ is wise and knows each game and
opponent is different.
*Bonus question
just for the Owls: What is your favourite part of match day? OO: Thats a tough one, gotta say
though - its the look on kids faces when Barney & me go and say hello!
BO: Dancing in front of the Kop is amazing, plus watching Ozzie
Owl doing a 10 pie challenge before the game is quite fun!
***
Match: Barnsley FC, Oakwell Stadium
1. How was
the teams overall performance? Very workmanlike - played as a team and fought for
everything. Would have liked us to attack them more but we need the points!
2. What,
if any, was the games turning point? Turning point had to be the goal, we took
the lead and had something to hold onto instead of chasing the game which
leaves us wide open.
3. Who
gave the Man of the Match performance in your opinion? Had to be Chris O'Grady! Put a
proper shift in like he always does, hardworking, graft, determination to win.
Also man of the match was Kirkland - kept us in the game with vital saves its a
close one between them 2.
4. Who
played the poorest, if anyone, for the Owls? Poorest performer, the ref!!! Completely
lost the plot with the game, knew he'd made a mistake with goal so tried to
penalise us for everything. But if I had to choose one player i'm struggling
tbh - if I had to choose I'd say Helan - not that he was poor but we need Reda
back ASAP!!
5. What
needs changing for our next game? Next game keep same side, don't go 4-5-1
when winning it won't always work. Madine & O'Grady up front is working at
the min.
***
Match: Bristol City, Hillsborough
Attendee: Ben Ashmore (Twitter: @wednesdayswfc83)
1. How was
the teams overall performance? Overall performance not too bad. A major lack of movement
meant players kept having to resort to hoof ball. Just silly errors from Llera
cost us.
2. What,
if any, was the games turning point? Think it has to be Madines handball for
the pen. It certainly made us nervous and got them going.
3. Who
gave the Man of the Match performance in your opinion? Martin Taylor. The lads getting better and
better. If only some fans could forget his first 2 games. Quality centre half.
4. Who
played the poorest, if anyone for the Owls? Miguel Llera. A total liability every game
he plays. Costs us too many goals. O'Grady and Lines also looked lost.
5. What
needs changing for our next game? Buxton to move to centre-half in place of
Llera (unless Gardner is fit) and Lee at right back. We need a settled team
soon though. He's going to have to pick 11 and stick with them for 5 games or
so.
***
Match: Cardiff City, The Cardiff City Stadium.
Attendee: John G (Twitter: @oh_johnny_boy)
1. How was
the teams overall performance? Performance was much improved. Great spirit shown,
defensively much more organised but lacking balance and cutting edge when going
forward.
2. What,
if any, was the games turning point? Their substitutions and Madine missing a
gilt-edge chance mid 2nd half. I thought we just about deserved a point. We
didn't give up either - a late flurry of corners could have earned an
equaliser. This was pretty much Megsons team and you could tell, pride.
3. Who
gave the Man of the Match performance in your opinion? Lines was excellent, Prutton brought
control and discipline, Mayor showed touches, but Taylor was immense once
again, proper defender.
4. Who
played the poorest, if anyone, for the Owls? Nobody had a bad game. Some played out of
position but still worked their socks off. Players got a great reception at the
end, well deserved.
5. What
needs changing for our next game? Next game is against a team we have to
beat. Need to offer a more attacking threat and a better balance going forward,
got to have 2 up top. They lost 4-1 at home to a poor Wolves side at the
weekend, they are there for the taking.
*John is tackling an amazing task when he runs 10 full marathons in 10 consecutive days for charity, helping vulnerable kids. You can contribute and donate to Johns cause here: www.justgiving.com/johng10in10 - please give generously, it all helps.*
***
Match: Watford FC, Hillsborough
Attendee: Robert Reid Whitelaw (Twitter: @thesatellitekid)
1. How was
the teams overall performance? 1st half was good, I thought we were unlucky to go in
level.But as with all teams struggling we conceded a poor goal when we need
some luck.
2. What,
if any, was the games turning point? The penalty. I'm unsure why Bothroyd
hadn't just shot in the position he was in. I thought the move before was
lovely football.
3. Who
gave the Man of the Match performance in your opinion? Antonio - he always works his socks off, I
feel for him at the moment but he does need to work on his end product - but I
do feel he stands out.
4. Who
played the poorest, if anyone, for the Owls? Martin Taylor, what is going on with him?
He got applauded on by the Watford fans and then turned in another poor
performance, shame because I thought he looked good against Leicester -
hopefully he'll turn things around.
5. What
needs changing for our next game? Changes? Thing just have to go back to
basics. We need to stop goals going in, could Bywater be the answer to that? He
knows how to marshal a defence. Can't help thinking we really need to try
that 'big man/little man' combo up front, doesn't Rodri seem to give us that?
Rodri with Bothroyd or Madine. I was surprised to see him sat in the South
Stand on Tuesday - at least that meant my son could get his autograph!
***
Match: Leicester City, Hillsborough
1. How was
the teams overall performance? Lacking team spirit and fight as seen in
previous games. Leicester are a class above at the moment.
2. What,
if any, was the games turning point? Conceding the goal just before half-time,
should we have equalised you always felt they would step up a few gears to get
the win.
3. Who
gave the Man of the Match performance in your opinion? Martin Taylor was no-nonsense in his
defending. Headed just over from a chance in the 2nd half.
4. Who
played the poorest, if anyone for the Owls? JJ. Head down and out of position when
things weren't going right. Although he needs the ball in front of him, not
with his back to goal.
5. What
needs changing for our next game? Antonio needs to be given a free role across the front and
not caged to the right wing like he was on Saturday.
***
Match: Nottingham Forest, The City Ground (Semedo
Day)
1. How was
the teams overall performance? Patchy, had some good spells and some
dodgy defending.
2. What,
if any, was the games turning point? Definately the O.G - no fire after that
went in.
3. Who
gave the Man of the Match performance in your opinion? Nobody really stood out, I'd say Gardner.
4. Who
played the poorest, if anyone for the Owls? Daniel Jones, lacked cutting edge and
chose the wrong pass a couple of times.
5. What
needs changing for our next game? 4-4-2 and either drop Bothroyd or play him
up front, also give Rodri a chance with Bothroyd up top, he could get onto
every flick on.
***
Match: Middlesborough FC, Riverside Stadium
1. How was
the teams overall performance? Poor. Daft mistakes, short, simple passes
going astray, not enough closing down in our third, not enough invention in their
third.
2. What,
if any, was the games turning point? Lleras suicidal pass to let them in for
their second. We'd got a foothold at 1-1, kept them out for 10 or so minutes,
quietened the very boisterous crowd, and we looked as comfortable as we had all
night, then that single pass unravelled us and we were on the backfoot yet
again.
3. Who
gave the Man of the Match performance in your opinion? Madine, especially in the second half. He
chased, won his headers, gave the hugely experienced Bikey and Woodgate
something to think about. His goal was a fair reward for his nights efforts,
even though he was clearly offside, which we could even see behind the goal, so
great was the margin. On that subject, he needs to learn to play to the whistle
more, he passed up pulling the trigger on a late chance to score, to look up to
see if he was offside, similarly to the way he did when we played Fulham in the
cup. Honourable mentions for Antonio too, he was threatening now and
again, and Buxton who did a decent job too.
4. Who
played the poorest, if anyone for the Owls? Daniel Jones. If he's the standard of
left-back we are putting out then we should never have let Peter Gilbert go.
Positionally AWOL for Hoytes goal, wretched distribution, I really don't see
any redeeming features that he brings. Not good enough in League One, not good
enough now.
5. What
needs changing for our next game? We should persist with Danie... just
kidding!! Get Mattock back in, leave the rest as they are at the back. Go 4 in
midfield: JJ and Antonio on the wings, Corry/McCabe and Semedo in the middle. A
rest will do Barkley good. Bothroyd tucked in behind Madine, he's no good to us
out on the right. We need to take Forest on. We haven't lost when we've gone
ahead this season, and in the league we haven't won when we've gone behind -
which spells out the impact that the first goal in games has on this team.
***
Match: Blackpool FC, Hillsborough
1. How was
the teams overall performance? Team full of individuals, good players bur
individuals!
2. What,
if any, was the games turning point? Match turning point was their goal! Gave
them loads of confidence.
3. Who
gave the Man of the Match performance in your opinion? Lewis Buxton.
4. Who
played the poorest, if anyone for the Owls? Poorest performer was Dave Jones for lack
of tactical awareness!
5. What
needs changing for our next game? Change of formation required for next
game.
***
Match: Peterborough United, Hillsborough
1. How was the teams overall performance? Was a s crappy performance but the lads got the job done.
2. What, if any, was the games turning point? Turning point must have been Dave Jones half time team talk - looked more hungry second half.
3. Who gave the Man of the Match performance in your opinion? My man of the match would be Llera, can't believe he was ever dropped, close second was Gardner.
4. Who played the poorest, if anyone for the Owls? Poorest performer would be Buxton, he can do so much better than the performance he gave at the weekend.
5. What needs changing for our next game? I wouldn't change much as its caused us more problems in previous games - we just need to keep possession of the ball and be more clinical in front of goal... and a decent ref would do! (Up the Owls! In Dave Jones we trust)
***
Match: Ipswich Town, Portman Road
1. How was
the teams overall performance? Solid performance throughout the entire
team, a lacklustre Ipswich team helped the result which didn't come with the
last couple of games.
2. What,
if any, was the games turning point? Superb start with a goal under a minute, a
stunned Ipswich didn't know what hit them, Wednesday looked relatively
untroubled throughout!
3. Who
gave the Man of the Match performance in your opinion? Ross Barkley aged 18 so composed on the
ball, link-up play superb, knitting the team together and topped off with 2
classy finishes!
4. Who
played the poorest, if anyone for the Owls? Daniel Jones, visibly Ipswich targeted him
as a weak link, players easily cut inside and on occasion needless free kicks
were given away.
5. What
needs changing for our next game? Strikers need to sharpen up, its good
midfielders scoring but against stronger opponents without an attacking threat
we will struggle!
***
Match: Blackburn Rovers, Ewood Park
1. How was
the teams overall performance? Overall it was an encouraging performance
but a sloppy goal, which was so avoidable, dampened the spirit. We were unlucky
not to get a point.
2. What,
if any, was the games turning point? Other than Barkleys mistake, I'd say
Antonios miss. Great move, through on goal and he put it wide.
3. Who
gave the Man of the Match performance in your opinion? Jose Semedo. He was a rock in the midfield
per usual. His passing has vastly improved and it was a lovely cross field pass
for Antonio.
4. Who
played the poorest, if anyone for the Owls? Nobody was outstandingly poor. I thought
Madine was off the pace but its down to a lack of first team football.
5. What
needs changing for our next game? We need a settled side so I wouldn't change
much. We're missing the likes of Reda and McCabe. It will come!
***
Match: Leeds United, Hillsborough
1. How was
the teams overall performance? Performance was good overall, defence
looked solid, good flowing passing, created chances, very positive team
mentality considering the injuries.
2. What,
if any, was the games turning point? No major turning point - Owls had a 10min
spell when we conceded in which we switched off a bit, but recovered very well.
draw felt like a loss.
3. Who
gave the Man of the Match performance in your opinion? Barkley or Bothroyd - both showing Prem
quality.
4. Who
played the poorest, if anyone for the Owls? No poorest player really, Jones had a
couple of misqueues as did Corry but did well overall.
5. What
needs changing for our next game? We need JJ back, stick Bothroyd up with
COG, Antonio & JJ down the flanks & Barkley with either Jose or Rhys in
midfield.
***
Match: Hull City, Hillsborough
1. How was the
teams overall performance? First half we were well organised, solid
at the backand even created a few chances. If Lleras goal had been given it
would have been different. 2nd half we lost penetration and any possession we
had was in front of Hull. They looked more likely to score and we looked more
scared - looked like we were happy to take a draw.
2. What, if
any, was the games turning point? Lleras header - it looked over the line to
me!
3. Who gave the
Man of the Match performance in your opinion? Barkley, with Llera a close second.
4. Who played
the poorest, if anyone for the Owls? Mattock was non existent going forward and
at fault for the goal.
5. What needs
changing for our next game? Difficult, was really pleased with first
half but we need to be braver going forward and up the tempo...thought it was
like a friendly!!
***
Match: Burnley FC, Turf Moor
1. How was
the teams overall performance? Very good!! I think we looked like we
could win it & their first goal really came from nowhere. Very open game as
well, they looked just as vulnerable as we did at the back.
2. What,
if any, was the games turning point? Their goal, our goal, their goal, our
goal, their goal then definitely our goal - it was just so open all the time.
Wasn't really a turning point but taking Nejc Pecnik off helped us out a lot.
3. Who
gave the Man of the Match performance in your opinion? Not for his goals ut for his effort and
his drive during the game, Chris O'Grady. He just ran all the time he was on
and chased for everything. Then there's his goals, makes the decision easier!
4. Who
played the poorest, if anyone for the Owls? #BlameKirkland (joke!) - well, if you
listen to certain individuals booing him off then it has to be Taylor, but I
think its harsh. Everyone in that defence needs time to settle with each other
and not having it changed every week. Also having an over-attacking mind in JJ
at the back isn't helping - but don't get me wrong, he's doing a great job at
the minute.
5. What
needs changing for our next game? Hopefully Buxton will be back and then JJ
can return to the wing. Also rest Pecnik.
***
Match: Wolverhampton Wanderers, Molineux Stadium
1. How was
the teams overall performance? I would say the overall performance was
poor, we looked good until we conceded but heads dropped too quickly afterwards
and we gave up the fight.
2. What,
if any, was the games turning point? It was definately the free kick as it
knocked the wind out of us when we were very much in it still.
3. Who
gave the Man of the Match performance in your opinion? JJ at right-back! He looked solid and his
pace stopped a lot of opportunities for them in their tracks.
4. Who
played the poorest, if anyone for the Owls? The poorest perfomer for me was Ross
Barkley, he tries too many risky dribbles when there is no cover.
5. What
needs changing for our next game? I would overload the midfield, Burnley
don't have the strongest and I think 5 in the middle with Rodri being one of
them for his creativity & ability to get out of a tight spot. Also leave JJ
at right-back, even though we miss him up front he was excellent in that
position. Up front I'd put O'Grady with the midfield supporting his hold up
play & pushing forward when in possession. 4-5-1 for me!
***
Match: Bolton Wanderers, Hillsborough
Attendee: Laura Jones (Twitter: @YICETOR - You can also read Lauras own award
nominated blog at www.yesicanexplaintheoffsiderule.blogspot.com )
1. How was
the teams overall performance? We could have matched Bolton, not over
awed but a lack of understanding let us down.
2. What,
if any, was the games turning point? Not sure there was one - 6 changes to the
team was itself the turning point.
3. Who
gave the Man of the Match performance in your opinion? Kiran Lee had a solid debut & kept
Eagles quiet.
4. Who
played the poorest, if anyone for the Owls? Could choose from a few but Taylor &
Bothroyd were the most dissapointing. The defence was not good.
5. What
needs changing for our next game? Change is the problem! DJ changing too
often, players can't settle in positions. DJ needs to pick the best team and
not just his own signings.
***
Match: Huddersfield Town, Hillsborough
1. How was
the teams overall performance? Performance was poor at the back but still
gave everything going forward. Tried too hard at times but just fell short.
2. What,
if any, was the games turning point? The turning point for me was the Mattock
sending off, should never give that advantage up when you've only just gained
it.
3. Who
gave the Man of the Match performance in your opinion? Man of the Match would be Reda Johnson
closely followed by Michail Antonio.
4. Who
played the poorest, if anyone for the Owls? Tatlor was very poor, I don't think
he's the answer,
Rob Jones must be
shaking his head!
5. What
needs changing for our next game? This would be my team: GK- Kirko / RB- Llera
/ LB- Reda / CB- Gardner / CB- Beevers / MF- Johnson, McCabe, Barkley, Semedo
& Antonio / S- O'Grady.
***
Match: Brighton & Hove Albion, Amex Stadium
Attendee: A Glaser (Twitter: @Glaser84)
1. How was
the teams overall performance? Not as bad as the 3-0 scoreline suggests.
They were dangerous & passed us off the park. Our final ball was very poor.
We had some good spells but weren't incisive enough in & around their box.
Both wingers were subdued and fullbacks exposed. Beevers shouldn't play left
back, he has no positional awareness & rarely, if ever, gets forward.
Semedo seems to find it difficult to make an impact at this level.
2. What,
if any, was the games turning point? The soft free-kick awarded for a foul on
the edge of the area by JJ. Bridge's kick wasn't going to trouble Kirkland but
took a wicked deflection. To be fair, it was what they deserved - we hadn't
started well at all.
3. Who
gave the Man of the Match performance in your opinion? Difficult one. Kirkland made 2 great saves
to keep it respectable, Mattock did well out of position, but Taylor just edges
it as he cut out a lot & won most that came his way. (Llera struggled
alongside him however... Gardner/Taylor as regular pair?)
4. Who
played the poorest, if anyone, for the Owls? Beevers or JJ... not his fault he played
out of position at left-back, but offered nothing going forward, was at fault
for one of Brightons goals & caught out of position & beat all too
easily. JJ was very ineffective & didn't contribute anything.
5. What
needs changing for our next game? If Buxton is unavailable, we need to put
the players in their natural positions. Lee comes in at RB and Mattock out at
LB. If Buxton and Reda are fit, Mattock should keep his shirt with Buxton on
the right. Also, Barkley to start - either behind Bothroyd or in the middle
with Semedo & McCabe. I'm unsure on Rodri - he hasn't had the impact we
thought his debut would bring.
***
Match: Crystal Palace, Selhurst Park
Attendee: Louise Hooley (Twitter: @swfcchick1993)
1. How was
the teams overall performance? Under par for what the SWFC fans have
grown used to.
2. What,
if any, was the games turning point? Not really one but Madine when he came on,
winning more balls.
3. Who
gave the Man of the Match performance in your opinion? Semedo, definitely.
4. Who
played the poorest, if anyone, for the Owls? I wouldn't say one player stood out, we
just didn't play great as a whole unit.
5. What
needs changing for our next game? Definitely need to sort our defence out
and maybe see if Bywater can organise better than what Kirkland is doing.
***
Match: Millwall, Hillsborough
1. How was
the teams overall performance? In general it was very good, lots of
creativity in MF coming from the youngsters Rhys McCabe & the
ever-explosive JJ.
2. What,
if any, was the games turning point? When the rain came bouncing down in the
first half, which was when Millwall struck twice, taking the lead 2-1.
3. Who
gave the Man of the Match performance in your opinion? Rhys McCabe - very talented two footed
midfielder who wasn't afraid to try a shot from 18yd out. He's got a very
promising future at Hillsborough ahead.
4. Who
played the poorest, if anyone, for the Owls? I think Antonio struggled to get into the
game, as did the young Rodri who was practically marked out of the game in the
1st half.
5. What
needs changing for our next game? O'Grady needs to start, changed the
attacking threat dramatically in the 2nd half.
***
Match: Birmingham City, Hillsborough
Attendee: Matt Thompson (Twitter: @mattthompson82)
1. How was
the teams overall performance? Good, but a bit panicky in defence.
2. What,
if any, was the games turning point? Not one really, we out played them!
3. Who gave
the Man of the Match performance in your opinion? A lot of them but for his first game,
Rodri was class ... so was JJ!
4. Who
played the poorest, if anyone, for the Owls? No stand out poor player, all played their
part.
5. What
needs changing for our next game? Include the new signings, Taylor for
Beevers and Bothroyd to partner Rodri.
***
Match: Derby County, Pride Park.
Attendee: Liam Breese (Twitter: @breese_swfc)
1. How was
the teams overall performance? Good once we got going after a shaky first
25min.
2. What,
if any, was the games turning point? O'Grady's goal just before half time.
3. Who
gave the Man of the Match performance in your opinion? Chris O'Grady.
4. Who
played the poorest, if anyone, for the Owls? Poorest player for me was Gardner.
5. What
needs changing for our next game? The only change I would've made was
Gardner.
*** nPower Championship season 2012/2013 ***
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