too easily dispossessed

 

 

too many players had a very poor game, we can be lucky to get results when a few play badly but not most of the squad. we looked a different team in the second half, no idea why we could not make a pass or defend. it was like when we got relegated to the national league.

Notts seemed to be defending as if we had players in the wrong positions, with only Jodi Jones and Macaualy Langstaff appearing at ease. I’ve seen remarks suggesting Jodi was partly to blame for the second goal, which I believe is a valid point.

Luke Williams mentioned that the way we played, made it easier for Walsall, but they weren't as relentless as he explained.

They just did the simple things right and made sure to cause trouble; there were many moments when they didn't have to do that - as we simply did it ourselves. The lack of having the thought of where our challenges are going, it was very foolish. Just sticking your feet out isn't defending; it can work but most of the time it relies on a bit of fortune.

We aren't having much luck this season, but I think we need to make our own.

Defensively, we need to be more drilled towards watching how the space is developing and then secondly the ball, then the nearest player being man marked. We need to make sure that we can quickly pull into defensive positions, our wing backs MUST defend. Aaron Nemane and Jodi Jones can be pointed out as failing to do this against Walsall, no matter how good they are at going forward. If they want to win, they need to think about it.

Definitely, Walsall weren't a great team. We've defeated stronger teams that put up more of a fight. Notts just surrendered without putting up much of a fight of their own.

From Walsall’s perspective, their second goal was very well executed. From our side, our defence was not up to the mark, which is not what you’d expect from a team aiming for promotion.