devoncider Posted October 23, 2014 Report Share Posted October 23, 2014 I've just done an article about our start compared to Orient's last year. Not all doom and gloom - just cautious optimism! http://www.thematch.co.uk/take-heed-os/ Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Shelton’s Love Gravy Posted October 23, 2014 Report Share Posted October 23, 2014 An excellent, very sharply-observed article Harry. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Calculus Posted October 23, 2014 Report Share Posted October 23, 2014 Not entirely sure where it is you say we learn anything from the Orient experience. An Orient supporting friend of mine is very clear on what went wrong last year. A fantastic start by a small, highly motivated and well managed squad got Orient well clear. As the season wore on and injuries and suspensions took their effect there was a clear need to strengthen. Barry Hearn, their owner at the time, wouldn't sanction the spending needed. Wolves and Brentford didn't make that mistake and strengthened in the January window. Orient had promotion for the taking last year but didn't push as hard as the other two. If there is a lesson to be learned for us it is this. We can expect the likes of Preston, Sheffield United and Peterborough to push on. The question is will we? As it stands we rely on the elderly pair Wade Eliot and Wilbrahimovich as key players. Not sure that their legs will make it through a long season, and with a small squad we may be vulnerable to injuries and suspensions. Despite the great start we will need to strengthen if we are to succeed this year. Going on previous experience I am not yet convinced that we will. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
spudski Posted October 23, 2014 Report Share Posted October 23, 2014 Not entirely sure where it is you say we learn anything from the Orient experience. An Orient supporting friend of mine is very clear on what went wrong last year. A fantastic start by a small, highly motivated and well managed squad got Orient well clear. As the season wore on and injuries and suspensions took their effect there was a clear need to strengthen. Barry Hearn, their owner at the time, wouldn't sanction the spending needed. Wolves and Brentford didn't make that mistake and strengthened in the January window. Orient had promotion for the taking last year but didn't push as hard as the other two. If there is a lesson to be learned for us it is this. We can expect the likes of Preston, Sheffield United and Peterborough to push on. The question is will we? As it stands we rely on the elderly pair Wade Eliot and Wilbrahimovich as key players. Not sure that their legs will make it through a long season, and with a small squad we may be vulnerable to injuries and suspensions. Despite the great start we will need to strengthen if we are to succeed this year. Going on previous experience I am not yet convinced that we will. I agree with that. We made the mistake of not strengthening in our Championship season, when we almost went up too. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
RedM Posted October 23, 2014 Report Share Posted October 23, 2014 We certainly did well attracting the players we did in the summer, when although we finished last season strongly there was no guarantee we would start this one well. So if we keep up at least some good form we will certainly look more attractive to players we wish to bring in than we have done for a while. The Board have also been seen to back the manager and I think Steve Cotterill has more than proved he can put a good squad of players together. I think they trust him and if he feels he needs to add players he will get them. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
GrahamC Posted October 23, 2014 Report Share Posted October 23, 2014 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Kid in the Riot Posted October 23, 2014 Report Share Posted October 23, 2014 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
The Casual Connoisseur Posted October 23, 2014 Report Share Posted October 23, 2014 Not entirely sure where it is you say we learn anything from the Orient experience. An Orient supporting friend of mine is very clear on what went wrong last year. A fantastic start by a small, highly motivated and well managed squad got Orient well clear. As the season wore on and injuries and suspensions took their effect there was a clear need to strengthen. Barry Hearn, their owner at the time, wouldn't sanction the spending needed. Wolves and Brentford didn't make that mistake and strengthened in the January window. Orient had promotion for the taking last year but didn't push as hard as the other two. If there is a lesson to be learned for us it is this. We can expect the likes of Preston, Sheffield United and Peterborough to push on. The question is will we? As it stands we rely on the elderly pair Wade Eliot and Wilbrahimovich as key players. Not sure that their legs will make it through a long season, and with a small squad we may be vulnerable to injuries and suspensions. Despite the great start we will need to strengthen if we are to succeed this year. Going on previous experience I am not yet convinced that we will. Absolutely spot on, it's already showing and has been in the last few games. I'd really like to see us back up both players you mention but with a view of bringing in players for first team places or at least competition for those places, remembering that we should have one eye on next years squad, hopefully in the championship. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
samo II Posted October 23, 2014 Report Share Posted October 23, 2014 Agree we need to avoid relying in the first eleven as is now. Been encouraging to see one or two 'fringe' players making positive contributions, such as Wagstaff, but if we are still in touch with and realistic contenders for automatic post-Christmas, we will absolutely need new blood. This might not mean them immediately (or even eventually replacing) those already in the shirts, but will provided real, sustained competition that youth and long-term fringe playes might not. That said; seeing how he was backed this summer, I cannot believe this isn't a priority for Cotts and the board, and though we obviously have to wait and see, imagine we've been keeping tabs on potential folks already. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
The Casual Connoisseur Posted October 23, 2014 Report Share Posted October 23, 2014 Agree we need to avoid relying in the first eleven as is now. Been encouraging to see one or two 'fringe' players making positive contributions, such as Wagstaff, but if we are still in touch with and realistic contenders for automatic post-Christmas, we will absolutely need new blood. This might not mean them immediately (or even eventually replacing) those already in the shirts, but will provided real, sustained competition that youth and long-term fringe playes might not. That said; seeing how he was backed this summer, I cannot believe this isn't a priority for Cotts and the board, and though we obviously have to wait and see, imagine we've been keeping tabs on potential folks already. I'd really hope that we have a few targets lined up. The last couple of games I've seen, there been a big difference in performance from the likes of Wilbraham and Elliot, not for want of trying, maybe it's a tactical thing from our opponents but IMHO they both look like they need a rest, smiths injury couldn't have come at a worse time, I think his fitness and tenacity is key to giving Elliot the time on the ball he enjoys. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
bristol south end Posted October 23, 2014 Report Share Posted October 23, 2014 Would not be shocked to see loans come in on Jan. He brought some excellent ones in last year. Players are well over priced in Jan. The type of player would need to be able to do a job at this level, have the ability to step up to the champ should we get there this year. Cannot see this type of player being cheap. Maybe he has a few targets in mind. A few with less than 6 months of their contacts left would make good sense. I feel we are a far more attactive club than this time last year which always helps. Same can be said for players leaving. We can see who is not getting games at present. I like anyone else do not know what his plans are. Will not be shocked to see a few leave. One thing that does please me. He seems to know the market. Use it well. In SC i trust. Back to the topic. Enjoyed the read, thanks Harry. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Big Red Rich Posted October 23, 2014 Report Share Posted October 23, 2014 I'd really hope that we have a few targets lined up. The last couple of games I've seen, there been a big difference in performance from the likes of Wilbraham and Elliot, not for want of trying, maybe it's a tactical thing from our opponents but IMHO they both look like they need a rest, smiths injury couldn't have come at a worse time I think his fitness and tenacity is key to giving Elliot the time on the ball he enjoys. Last few games of the season surely is a worse time??! I feel like we're starting to freak out at the moment!!! Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
WTFiGO!?! Posted October 24, 2014 Report Share Posted October 24, 2014 As others have infurred, the Leyton Orient analogy is limited. They were over-achieving and possibly didn't have the finances to further strengthen. We have gone out an assembled a quality squad, seem to have a good team spirit and have earned the right to be top of the league after our longest unbeaten start ever. Along with "look at Leyton Orient last season", the sages have also told us "ah, but City haven't played anyone 'good' yet' ", "we've been 'lucky' with injuries" and in the Summer "this succession of exciting recruits means nothing, exercise caution". Performances have also not been that good either (to be construed as a negative!). Well written article mate but please, the Danny Wilson era also has bugger all to do with this one an all clubs will have their sob-stories. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
myol'man Posted October 24, 2014 Report Share Posted October 24, 2014 Well written article Harry, I'll remember your name when you take over from Shitehausen at the Post! I would expect 3 new faces in January whether we are still top or not Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Drew Peacock Posted October 24, 2014 Report Share Posted October 24, 2014 I will just edit that all out. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
sodburyred Posted October 24, 2014 Report Share Posted October 24, 2014 As others have infurred, the Leyton Orient analogy is limited. They were over-achieving and possibly didn't have the finances to further strengthen. We have gone out an assembled a quality squad, seem to have a good team spirit and have earned the right to be top of the league after our longest unbeaten start ever. Along with "look at Leyton Orient last season", the sages have also told us "ah, but City haven't played anyone 'good' yet' ", "we've been 'lucky' with injuries" and in the Summer "this succession of exciting recruits means nothing, exercise caution". Performances have also not been that good either (to be construed as a negative!). Well written article mate but please, the Danny Wilson era also has bugger all to do with this one an all clubs will have their sob-stories. I agree I keep reading how Leyton Orient and Tranmere where in our position but fell away while I understand nothing should be taken for granted they were both vastly over achieving. We went into the season 2nd favourites when really we should of been favourites after the summer spending we did and blow and behold we are top. I'm not saying we are going to stay top and walk the league, just think its a very flawed comparison. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
samo II Posted October 24, 2014 Report Share Posted October 24, 2014 Well written article Harry, I'll remember your name when you take over from Shitehausen at the Post! I would expect 3 new faces in January whether we are still top or not I'd agree; three or four would be the number if expect, and if Wynter and Reid continue their development away from the Gate, having them as extra depth in those positions post-Christmas would be positive too. Also half expect perhaps one or two to move out in January, with JET and Osborne a couple who could easily be starting at sides not displaying the sort of form we are, so will likely be in the minds of other managers. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
RedJim Posted October 24, 2014 Report Share Posted October 24, 2014 I've just done an article about our start compared to Orient's last year. Not all doom and gloom - just cautious optimism! http://www.thematch.co.uk/take-heed-os/ Good article. I share some of your fears, but I'm confident that we will strengthen in January. If we are sitting in the top 2 or 3 come then, I'm sure Cotterill will have his targets lined up and Steve Lansdown will back him. I think we are a different proposition to Orient last year - We have bought experienced, quality players who are achieving their potential at this level. I don't think the squad is overachieving at all - we are good enough to be where we are, players like Korey Smith, Wade Elliot and Luke Freeman are Championship players. My only worry is we have quite a small squad and injuries would be a worry. However, I think Cotterill is too savvy to not have plans in place for January, and will look to plug any holes in the squad then. He's proven with both loans and permanent signings that he can bring the right players in. We will lose soon, but I think this squad has the character and know-how to recover from any setback. There's leadership and quality throughout the team. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
CliftonCliff Posted October 24, 2014 Report Share Posted October 24, 2014 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
foghornred Posted October 24, 2014 Report Share Posted October 24, 2014 We al know that its early season and nothing is won in October but its great to have such a good start to the season,and there are many like Orient who have started well but fallen away. Never the less a good post and well written. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
The Casual Connoisseur Posted October 24, 2014 Report Share Posted October 24, 2014 Last few games of the season surely is a worse time??! I feel like we're starting to freak out at the moment!!!I feel like everyone around me has the attitude of we've won the league already, I believe that we will be top 6 and will have to work hard for that. I'm very impressed with our start but I do see problems on the pitch, we've worked hard for our position but it's rare that teams go all season at the top of the league let alone in the top 6 all season. I think it's obvious where our short comings may lay, and I have full confidence that if a brain damaged idiot like me can see it, then an a accomplished league one manager has it well and truly sorted. I think the next 8 games will show the metal of the "full squad", which undoubtedly will be strengthened asap. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Bristol_Badger Posted October 24, 2014 Report Share Posted October 24, 2014 I feel like everyone around me has the attitude of we've won the league already, I believe that we will be top 6 and will have to work hard for that. I'm very impressed with our start but I do see problems on the pitch, we've worked hard for our position but it's rare that teams go all season at the top of the league let alone in the top 6 all season. I think it's obvious where our short comings may lay, and I have full confidence that if a brain damaged idiot like me can see it, then an a accomplished league one manager has it well and truly sorted. I think the next 8 games will show the metal of the "full squad", which undoubtedly will be strengthened asap. Best post I've read on here for a long while. The arrogance of some city fans is laughable. We can't defend for toffee and if I hear another fan say that a team are in for a right beating sooner or later by us, I will lose the plot! The only team in for a hiding sooner or later... Is us! This 'we'll score more than you' horse crap is not sustainable. Reality check needed by some on here. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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