Match report: Hinds & Kelly sensational. Result sublime.

[Olé]

I’ll keep it quick. A fantastic showing of heart from a second string team who looked distinctly lower division in the first half punting balls up to Diedhiou, but defended solidly from the many Watford crosses, with Magnússon the stand out player at the back, and Lloyd Kelly an incredibly impressive firefly on the left. But overall, we were holding on more than threatening.

Second half Watford did exactly what they needed to - stepped the pace up of their movement through our defence, and carved open the chance for their opener. I thought it might be the start of a collapse, but Bobby Reid was sensational every time he touched the ball, and Hinds never stopped running. Despite limitations in central midfield we took control of things.

 

Hinds deserved his goal but I don’t think anyone expected him to drift past a midfielder and slam it into the top corner - but it was exactly what his constant purpose and running in behind them had threatened. Then we believed, and the purpose exhibited by him, Eliason, Reid and O’Dowda was thrilling, not perfect by any means, but slowly was pushing Watford back.

 

On another break Hinds released the ball down the left, it found its way to Kelly, who took on his man and drilled a low cross into the box that evaded everyone except Bobby Reid, who slammed it past the keeper with interest. We held on grimly versus the Watford onslaught - Will Hughes is a class act and our limiting of him was probably the standout midfield action.

 

Before the end Taylor - on as a sub - would be set free and run in on goal, squaring for O’Dowda’s easy finish. O’Dowda had looked awkward in a compact formation that rarely wanted to go wide, and with this chance just a few years out, he would take an extra touch to switch the ball to his preferred foot, only to see his shot saved. Thankfully, he’d come back stronger:

 

Within minutes City broke again, the ball was spread to O’Dowda, who had a torrid time versus his markers, but this time he sensed blood and powered through two tackles, broke into the box, before squaring it for Eliason - who looked lightweight but simply never stopped running all game, however much he was kicked - to tap in. Delirium right in front of the away end.

 

In the end analysis, we were second best for nearly an hour, good at defending crosses but ultimately sitting compact inviting Watford’s front 4 or 5 (when in possession) to spread the field. The best we managed was springing the ball forward through the middle and asking Diedhiou or Hinds to get it under control. Hinds did so occasionally, but Diedhiou rarely.

 

What changed the game was adding Bobby Reid and he and Hinds moving their defenders more rapidly. Suddenly where we had left Kelly and Vyner flat in the back four and asked O’Dowda and Eliason to attack (in contrast with attacking roles for Bryan and Pisano), in the second half we allowed the full backs to also push up given the speed with which we moved.

 

These overloads shifted the balance of the game and Reid’s smart touches, coupled with Hinds willing running (followed by the same from Taylor) opened up chances for us. But to be fair Hinds opener was out of nothing, but he would go on to start the move that put us in front too. He looks sharp and direct, and contrasted strongly with Watford’s five man front interplay.

 

In the end a sensational win. Make no mistake, Watford played a high line and a formation than granted them a line of five up front much wider than our team, we defended a load of crosses (Magnússon in particular but in the crucial final half hour, Flint more than anyone - he desperately wanted to win) and we broke with pace and purpose - once Diedhiou was off. 

 

Fielding 8 Once again a mix of cracking saves and hopeless long kicks. Kept us in it with one save before the end.

Vyner 7 Solid but exposed more than once by the movement of the Watford forwards, who pushed up 4 or 5 across the front when in possession.

Flint 7 A couple of crucial headed clearances, looked a bit hesitant and jaded first half, but the final half hour he was all over our half defending and clearing balls wherever they fell, a winner and someone we will miss if he is going.

Magnússon 8 Won most of the headers in the first half from Watford’s sustained attacking and really wanted it. Still a bit rusty with the ball at his feet but clearly had a point to prove. Nearly scored with a header that was deflected.

Kelly 9 Our best player once you exclude Super Bobby Reid’s cameo. Won everything he was asked to, took up smart positioning whenever threatened, I don’t think he put a foot wrong. I was incredibly impressed. Set up the winner.

Hegeler 6 Didn’t really get in the game. I don’t think our whole central midfield did and it is clearly our weak link. A few good touches but struggled to get in the game. Certainly didn’t get a foot on the ball and play it, had hands full with Hughes.

O’Neil 7 Marginally better than Hegeler but not great. Misplaced a lot of passes and also struggled with the pace through midfield of Will Hughes and Watford. The fact he played the whole game and kept us in it, deserves some credit.

O’Dowda 7 Given how compact we were, he was asked to do an awful lot on the wing without any support or people to pass to. It wasn’t great to be honest and compounded by missing a sitter. But the later the game went on, the more lethal he became with his pace and direct running, and he ultimately won us the game with his strength and composure for our third.

Eliason 7 Quiet early on, but evident how much he never stopped running or chasing the opportunity to sprint clear, and was roughly treated by a physical Watford side. Takes some fantastic corners which is a major bonus for us too.

Diedhiou 5 A few nice headers but didn’t really get into the game, even though we largely played the ball through the middle. Has the physique and the presence, but the touch and the stamina both look like a work in progress.

Hinds 8 Never stopped running, this guys self belief and energy is infectious. Caused their defenders all sorts of problems, had them back-tracking, and his opener was simply sensational.

 

Subs:

Reid 9 Just looks a class act every time the ball came near him. While most of our play was about springing players on runs at their defence, Reid caused problems simply with sublime touches and losing his markers repeatedly. Goal was deserved.

Smith 7 Had one shocker where he fell over and set them clear on goal, but for the most part came on when we were ahead and chased everything, kicked everything, and helped spring us forward when the opportunity arose. A warrior.

Taylor 7 A great replacement for Hinds, ran at them when they were tiring, gave O’Dowda a goal on a plate, and kept going until the game was won.

[hoxton casual]

5 minutes ago, Olé said:

I’ll keep it quick. A fantastic showing of heart from a second string team who looked distinctly lower division in the first half punting balls up to Diedhiou, but defended solidly from the many Watford crosses, with Magnússon the stand out player at the back, and Lloyd Kelly an incredibly impressive firefly on the left. But overall, we were holding on more than threatening.

Second half Watford did exactly what they needed to - stepped the pace up of their movement through our defence, and carved open the chance for their opener. I thought it might be the start of a collapse, but Bobby Reid was sensational every time he touched the ball, and Hinds never stopped running. Despite limitations in central midfield we took control of things.

 

Hinds deserved his goal but I don’t think anyone expected him to drift past a midfielder and slam it into the top corner - but it was exactly what his constant purpose and running in behind them had threatened. Then we believed, and the purpose exhibited by him, Eliason, Reid and O’Dowda was thrilling, not perfect by any means, but slowly was pushing Watford back.

 

On another break Hinds released the ball down the left, it found its way to Kelly, who took on his man and drilled a low cross into the box that evaded everyone except Bobby Reid, who slammed it past the keeper with interest. We held on grimly versus the Watford onslaught - Will Hughes is a class act and our limiting of him was probably the standout midfield action.

 

Before the end Taylor - on as a sub - would be set free and run in on goal, squaring for O’Dowda’s easy finish. O’Dowda had looked awkward in a compact formation that rarely wanted to go wide, and with this chance just a few years out, he would take an extra touch to switch the ball to his preferred foot, only to see his shot saved. Thankfully, he’d come back stronger:

 

Within minutes City broke again, the ball was spread to O’Dowda, who had a torrid time versus his markers, but this time he sensed blood and powered through two tackles, broke into the box, before squaring it for Eliason - who looked lightweight but simply never stopped running all game, however much he was kicked - to tap in. Delirium right in front of the away end.

 

In the end analysis, we were second best for nearly an hour, good at defending crosses but ultimately sitting compact inviting Watford’s front 4 or 5 (when in possession) to spread the field. The best we managed was springing the ball forward through the middle and asking Diedhiou or Hinds to get it under control. Hinds did so occasionally, but Diedhiou rarely.

 

What changed the game was adding Bobby Reid and he and Hinds moving their defenders more rapidly. Suddenly where we had left Kelly and Vyner flat in the back four and asked O’Dowda and Eliason to attack (in contrast with attacking roles for Bryan and Pisano), in the second half we allowed the full backs to also push up given the speed with which we moved.

 

These overloads shifted the balance of the game and Reid’s smart touches, coupled with Hinds willing running (followed by the same from Taylor) opened up chances for us. But to be fair Hinds opener was out of nothing, but he would go on to start the move that put us in front too. He looks sharp and direct, and contrasted strongly with Watford’s five man front interplay.

 

In the end a sensational win. Make no mistake, Watford played a high line and a formation than granted them a line of five up front much wider than our team, we defended a load of crosses (Magnússon in particular but in the crucial final half hour, Flint more than anyone - he desperately wanted to win) and we broke with pace and purpose - once Diedhiou was off. 

 

Fielding 8 Once again a mix of cracking saves and hopeless long kicks. Kept us in it with one save before the end.

Vyner 7 Solid but exposed more than once by the movement of the Watford forwards, who pushed up 4 or 5 across the front when in possession.

Flint 7 A couple of crucial headed clearances, looked a bit hesitant and jaded first half, but the final half hour he was all over our half defending and clearing balls wherever they fell, a winner and someone we will miss if he is going.

Magnússon 8 Won most of the headers in the first half from Watford’s sustained attacking and really wanted it. Still a bit rusty with the ball at his feet but clearly had a point to prove. Nearly scored with a header that was deflected.

Kelly 9 Our best player once you exclude Super Bobby Reid’s cameo. Won everything he was asked to, took up smart positioning whenever threatened, I don’t think he put a foot wrong. I was incredibly impressed. Set up the winner.

Hegeler 6 Didn’t really get in the game. I don’t think our whole central midfield did and it is clearly our weak link. A few good touches but struggled to get in the game. Certainly didn’t get a foot on the ball and play it, had hands full with Hughes.

O’Neil 7 Marginally better than Hegeler but not great. Misplaced a lot of passes and also struggled with the pace through midfield of Will Hughes and Watford. The fact he played the whole game and kept us in it, deserves some credit.

O’Dowda 7 Given how compact we were, he was asked to do an awful lot on the wing without any support or people to pass to. It wasn’t great to be honest and compounded by missing a sitter. But the later the game went on, the more lethal he became with his pace and direct running, and he ultimately won us the game with his strength and composure for our third.

Eliason 7 Quiet early on, but evident how much he never stopped running or chasing the opportunity to sprint clear, and was roughly treated by a physical Watford side. Takes some fantastic corners which is a major bonus for us too.

Diedhiou 5 A few nice headers but didn’t really get into the game, even though we largely played the ball through the middle. Has the physique and the presence, but the touch and the stamina both look like a work in progress.

Hinds 8 Never stopped running, this guys self belief and energy is infectious. Caused their defenders all sorts of problems, had them back-tracking, and his opener was simply sensational.

 

Subs:

Reid 9 Just looks a class act every time the ball came near him. While most of our play was about springing players on runs at their defence, Reid caused problems simply with sublime touches and losing his markers repeatedly. Goal was deserved.

Smith 7 Had one shocker where he fell over and set them clear on goal, but for the most part came on when we were ahead and chased everything, kicked everything, and helped spring us forward when the opportunity arose. A warrior.

Taylor 7 A great replacement for Hinds, ran at them when they were tiring, gave O’Dowda a goal on a plate, and kept going until the game was won.

Always agree with your view Ole. almost exactly the same player reviews on a different thread. Kelly/Hinds and Reid. Wow - how good can they be. I see that Diedhou does have something and I really hope he is given the time to show what he can do . Steep learning curve for him. The worrying thing is his lack of pace.

[stephenkibby.]

4 minutes ago, Olé said:

I’ll keep it quick. A fantastic showing of heart from a second string team who looked distinctly lower division in the first half punting balls up to Diedhiou, but defended solidly from the many Watford crosses, with Magnússon the stand out player at the back, and Lloyd Kelly an incredibly impressive firefly on the left. But overall, we were holding on more than threatening.

Second half Watford did exactly what they needed to - stepped the pace up of their movement through our defence, and carved open the chance for their opener. I thought it might be the start of a collapse, but Bobby Reid was sensational every time he touched the ball, and Hinds never stopped running. Despite limitations in central midfield we took control of things.

 

Hinds deserved his goal but I don’t think anyone expected him to drift past a midfielder and slam it into the top corner - but it was exactly what his constant purpose and running in behind them had threatened. Then we believed, and the purpose exhibited by him, Eliason, Reid and O’Dowda was thrilling, not perfect by any means, but slowly was pushing Watford back.

 

On another break Hinds released the ball down the left, it found its way to Kelly, who took on his man and drilled a low cross into the box that evaded everyone except Bobby Reid, who slammed it past the keeper with interest. We held on grimly versus the Watford onslaught - Will Hughes is a class act and our limiting of him was probably the standout midfield action.

 

Before the end Taylor - on as a sub - would be set free and run in on goal, squaring for O’Dowda’s easy finish. O’Dowda had looked awkward in a compact formation that rarely wanted to go wide, and with this chance just a few years out, he would take an extra touch to switch the ball to his preferred foot, only to see his shot saved. Thankfully, he’d come back stronger:

 

Within minutes City broke again, the ball was spread to O’Dowda, who had a torrid time versus his markers, but this time he sensed blood and powered through two tackles, broke into the box, before squaring it for Eliason - who looked lightweight but simply never stopped running all game, however much he was kicked - to tap in. Delirium right in front of the away end.

 

In the end analysis, we were second best for nearly an hour, good at defending crosses but ultimately sitting compact inviting Watford’s front 4 or 5 (when in possession) to spread the field. The best we managed was springing the ball forward through the middle and asking Diedhiou or Hinds to get it under control. Hinds did so occasionally, but Diedhiou rarely.

 

What changed the game was adding Bobby Reid and he and Hinds moving their defenders more rapidly. Suddenly where we had left Kelly and Vyner flat in the back four and asked O’Dowda and Eliason to attack (in contrast with attacking roles for Bryan and Pisano), in the second half we allowed the full backs to also push up given the speed with which we moved.

 

These overloads shifted the balance of the game and Reid’s smart touches, coupled with Hinds willing running (followed by the same from Taylor) opened up chances for us. But to be fair Hinds opener was out of nothing, but he would go on to start the move that put us in front too. He looks sharp and direct, and contrasted strongly with Watford’s five man front interplay.

 

In the end a sensational win. Make no mistake, Watford played a high line and a formation than granted them a line of five up front much wider than our team, we defended a load of crosses (Magnússon in particular but in the crucial final half hour, Flint more than anyone - he desperately wanted to win) and we broke with pace and purpose - once Diedhiou was off. 

 

Fielding 8 Once again a mix of cracking saves and hopeless long kicks. Kept us in it with one save before the end.

Vyner 7 Solid but exposed more than once by the movement of the Watford forwards, who pushed up 4 or 5 across the front when in possession.

Flint 7 A couple of crucial headed clearances, looked a bit hesitant and jaded first half, but the final half hour he was all over our half defending and clearing balls wherever they fell, a winner and someone we will miss if he is going.

Magnússon 8 Won most of the headers in the first half from Watford’s sustained attacking and really wanted it. Still a bit rusty with the ball at his feet but clearly had a point to prove. Nearly scored with a header that was deflected.

Kelly 9 Our best player once you exclude Super Bobby Reid’s cameo. Won everything he was asked to, took up smart positioning whenever threatened, I don’t think he put a foot wrong. I was incredibly impressed. Set up the winner.

Hegeler 6 Didn’t really get in the game. I don’t think our whole central midfield did and it is clearly our weak link. A few good touches but struggled to get in the game. Certainly didn’t get a foot on the ball and play it, had hands full with Hughes.

O’Neil 7 Marginally better than Hegeler but not great. Misplaced a lot of passes and also struggled with the pace through midfield of Will Hughes and Watford. The fact he played the whole game and kept us in it, deserves some credit.

O’Dowda 7 Given how compact we were, he was asked to do an awful lot on the wing without any support or people to pass to. It wasn’t great to be honest and compounded by missing a sitter. But the later the game went on, the more lethal he became with his pace and direct running, and he ultimately won us the game with his strength and composure for our third.

Eliason 7 Quiet early on, but evident how much he never stopped running or chasing the opportunity to sprint clear, and was roughly treated by a physical Watford side. Takes some fantastic corners which is a major bonus for us too.

Diedhiou 5 A few nice headers but didn’t really get into the game, even though we largely played the ball through the middle. Has the physique and the presence, but the touch and the stamina both look like a work in progress.

Hinds 8 Never stopped running, this guys self belief and energy is infectious. Caused their defenders all sorts of problems, had them back-tracking, and his opener was simply sensational.

 

Subs:

Reid 9 Just looks a class act every time the ball came near him. While most of our play was about springing players on runs at their defence, Reid caused problems simply with sublime touches and losing his markers repeatedly. Goal was deserved.

Smith 7 Had one shocker where he fell over and set them clear on goal, but for the most part came on when we were ahead and chased everything, kicked everything, and helped spring us forward when the opportunity arose. A warrior.

Taylor 7 A great replacement for Hinds, ran at them when they were tiring, gave O’Dowda a goal on a plate, and kept going until the game was won.

On the Watford forum about the only praise they gave us was one chap saying the left back looked half decent!!!

[reddogkev]

6 minutes ago, Olé said:

I’ll keep it quick. A fantastic showing of heart from a second string team who looked distinctly lower division in the first half punting balls up to Diedhiou, but defended solidly from the many Watford crosses, with Magnússon the stand out player at the back, and Lloyd Kelly an incredibly impressive firefly on the left. But overall, we were holding on more than threatening.

Where would we be without your detailed appraisal of the games?  On behalf of all the folks who simply cannot afford going to away games, I salute you!

[Shtanley]

Good to hear more positive thoughts on Kelly @Olé. He's really one I think will break into the first team, unthinkably at the expense of Joe Bryan. 

[Davefevs]

11 minutes ago, Shtanley said:

Good to hear more positive thoughts on Kelly @Olé. He's really one I think will break into the first team, unthinkably at the expense of Joe Bryan. 

You been saying that for a while now

[chowie]

Sounds like the central midfield is concerning again.

[EmersonsRed]

3 minutes ago, chowie said:

Sounds like the central midfield is concerning again.

To be fair their central midfield was quite strong today. It's more getting over-ran than actually being a weak link, as in, the players aren't bad, but if we're going 3 against 2 most weeks, guess what'll happen? We'll get outplayed... More the management side, but it didn't harm us tonight. So happy days...

[Lordofthebling]

I ******* love bobby reid

and cider.

[Kodjias Wrist]

Great write up @Olé fell asleep at 8.30 and woke up at 11pm so well chuffed with the performances.

[Dastardly and Muttley]

Is this a retraction of your previous retraction or are we still shite?

[joeyb]

Agree with all the ratings. Kelly was very good on debut minus a few clearances lobbed into the stands - not necessarily a bad thing as at least it doesn't directly give the opposition possession in open play.

Reid's progress this year has been so unpredictably amazing. When he steps onto the field he just has an aura of confidence around him. He's strong, quick and has always had quick feet and technical ability. Amazing to think we might have 2 (maybe 3 if Kelly in a few years if he can sustain his performance level from tonight over a season) academy players worth £5m+.

[shelts]

Super Lloyd Kelly. Chuffed for the lad. Can we please give him a go 

[pillred]

1 hour ago, Olé said:

I’ll keep it quick. A fantastic showing of heart from a second string team who looked distinctly lower division in the first half punting balls up to Diedhiou, but defended solidly from the many Watford crosses, with Magnússon the stand out player at the back, and Lloyd Kelly an incredibly impressive firefly on the left. But overall, we were holding on more than threatening.

Second half Watford did exactly what they needed to - stepped the pace up of their movement through our defence, and carved open the chance for their opener. I thought it might be the start of a collapse, but Bobby Reid was sensational every time he touched the ball, and Hinds never stopped running. Despite limitations in central midfield we took control of things.

 

Hinds deserved his goal but I don’t think anyone expected him to drift past a midfielder and slam it into the top corner - but it was exactly what his constant purpose and running in behind them had threatened. Then we believed, and the purpose exhibited by him, Eliason, Reid and O’Dowda was thrilling, not perfect by any means, but slowly was pushing Watford back.

 

On another break Hinds released the ball down the left, it found its way to Kelly, who took on his man and drilled a low cross into the box that evaded everyone except Bobby Reid, who slammed it past the keeper with interest. We held on grimly versus the Watford onslaught - Will Hughes is a class act and our limiting of him was probably the standout midfield action.

 

Before the end Taylor - on as a sub - would be set free and run in on goal, squaring for O’Dowda’s easy finish. O’Dowda had looked awkward in a compact formation that rarely wanted to go wide, and with this chance just a few years out, he would take an extra touch to switch the ball to his preferred foot, only to see his shot saved. Thankfully, he’d come back stronger:

 

Within minutes City broke again, the ball was spread to O’Dowda, who had a torrid time versus his markers, but this time he sensed blood and powered through two tackles, broke into the box, before squaring it for Eliason - who looked lightweight but simply never stopped running all game, however much he was kicked - to tap in. Delirium right in front of the away end.

 

In the end analysis, we were second best for nearly an hour, good at defending crosses but ultimately sitting compact inviting Watford’s front 4 or 5 (when in possession) to spread the field. The best we managed was springing the ball forward through the middle and asking Diedhiou or Hinds to get it under control. Hinds did so occasionally, but Diedhiou rarely.

 

What changed the game was adding Bobby Reid and he and Hinds moving their defenders more rapidly. Suddenly where we had left Kelly and Vyner flat in the back four and asked O’Dowda and Eliason to attack (in contrast with attacking roles for Bryan and Pisano), in the second half we allowed the full backs to also push up given the speed with which we moved.

 

These overloads shifted the balance of the game and Reid’s smart touches, coupled with Hinds willing running (followed by the same from Taylor) opened up chances for us. But to be fair Hinds opener was out of nothing, but he would go on to start the move that put us in front too. He looks sharp and direct, and contrasted strongly with Watford’s five man front interplay.

 

In the end a sensational win. Make no mistake, Watford played a high line and a formation than granted them a line of five up front much wider than our team, we defended a load of crosses (Magnússon in particular but in the crucial final half hour, Flint more than anyone - he desperately wanted to win) and we broke with pace and purpose - once Diedhiou was off. 

 

Fielding 8 Once again a mix of cracking saves and hopeless long kicks. Kept us in it with one save before the end.

Vyner 7 Solid but exposed more than once by the movement of the Watford forwards, who pushed up 4 or 5 across the front when in possession.

Flint 7 A couple of crucial headed clearances, looked a bit hesitant and jaded first half, but the final half hour he was all over our half defending and clearing balls wherever they fell, a winner and someone we will miss if he is going.

Magnússon 8 Won most of the headers in the first half from Watford’s sustained attacking and really wanted it. Still a bit rusty with the ball at his feet but clearly had a point to prove. Nearly scored with a header that was deflected.

Kelly 9 Our best player once you exclude Super Bobby Reid’s cameo. Won everything he was asked to, took up smart positioning whenever threatened, I don’t think he put a foot wrong. I was incredibly impressed. Set up the winner.

Hegeler 6 Didn’t really get in the game. I don’t think our whole central midfield did and it is clearly our weak link. A few good touches but struggled to get in the game. Certainly didn’t get a foot on the ball and play it, had hands full with Hughes.

O’Neil 7 Marginally better than Hegeler but not great. Misplaced a lot of passes and also struggled with the pace through midfield of Will Hughes and Watford. The fact he played the whole game and kept us in it, deserves some credit.

O’Dowda 7 Given how compact we were, he was asked to do an awful lot on the wing without any support or people to pass to. It wasn’t great to be honest and compounded by missing a sitter. But the later the game went on, the more lethal he became with his pace and direct running, and he ultimately won us the game with his strength and composure for our third.

Eliason 7 Quiet early on, but evident how much he never stopped running or chasing the opportunity to sprint clear, and was roughly treated by a physical Watford side. Takes some fantastic corners which is a major bonus for us too.

Diedhiou 5 A few nice headers but didn’t really get into the game, even though we largely played the ball through the middle. Has the physique and the presence, but the touch and the stamina both look like a work in progress.

Hinds 8 Never stopped running, this guys self belief and energy is infectious. Caused their defenders all sorts of problems, had them back-tracking, and his opener was simply sensational.

 

Subs:

Reid 9 Just looks a class act every time the ball came near him. While most of our play was about springing players on runs at their defence, Reid caused problems simply with sublime touches and losing his markers repeatedly. Goal was deserved.

Smith 7 Had one shocker where he fell over and set them clear on goal, but for the most part came on when we were ahead and chased everything, kicked everything, and helped spring us forward when the opportunity arose. A warrior.

Taylor 7 A great replacement for Hinds, ran at them when they were tiring, gave O’Dowda a goal on a plate, and kept going until the game was won.

I'll keep it quick ha ha love that.

[Red-Robbo]

Hinds looks a real decent prospect. Has got Bobby Reid's Everyready batteries in him, and can find the net from distance.  @Olé's match report makes for happy reading.

Glad to see Kelly looking so assured too. We've developed a great young player there obviously.

[YorkshireSection]

Let's just hope Woodrow doesn't stand in the path of Hinds development, it sounds like we've got our own striker who can push for a first team place, great goal and a real bonus along with Kellys performance.

[old_eastender]

2 minutes ago, YorkshireSection said:

Let's just hope Woodrow doesn't stand in the path of Hinds development, it sounds like we've got our own striker who can push for a first team place, great goal and a real bonus along with Kellys performance.

We have not seen Woodrow yet, I wouldn't be surprised to see him start against Villa in place of Deidhiou. 

Agree with your sentiment though and really hope we don't spend more money on someone like Joe Mason or any other striker which would block Hinds development.

It's CM where we need some quality purchased.

[Maldini]

@Olé can you give your views on our tactics and formation? Any sign of a plan B yesterday?

 

[Shtanley]

2 minutes ago, JonDolman said:

Joe goes into central midfield if kelly is too good to leave out for me. 

I think I'd drop Paterson for Bryan. 

[Roger Red Hat]

7 minutes ago, JonDolman said:

Joe goes into central midfield if kelly is too good to leave out for me. 

I should think there'll be quite few more likely to play than yourself.

[exAtyeoMax]

I think they look a bit surprised themselves! 

[Fat Cigar]

The problem with moving Joe to left-midfield or CM is that we tried that last season and it didn't really pay off. Moving him about constantly just caused confusion. Johnson has said many times he sees Joe as a LB so I'd be extremely surprised if he was moved out of position again. I would love to see Kelly go straight in to the first team but his time will come.

 

[Sir Colby-Tit]

13 hours ago, Olé said:

I’ll keep it quick. A fantastic showing of heart from a second string team who looked distinctly lower division in the first half punting balls up to Diedhiou, but defended solidly from the many Watford crosses, with Magnússon the stand out player at the back, and Lloyd Kelly an incredibly impressive firefly on the left. But overall, we were holding on more than threatening.

Second half Watford did exactly what they needed to - stepped the pace up of their movement through our defence, and carved open the chance for their opener. I thought it might be the start of a collapse, but Bobby Reid was sensational every time he touched the ball, and Hinds never stopped running. Despite limitations in central midfield we took control of things.

 

Hinds deserved his goal but I don’t think anyone expected him to drift past a midfielder and slam it into the top corner - but it was exactly what his constant purpose and running in behind them had threatened. Then we believed, and the purpose exhibited by him, Eliason, Reid and O’Dowda was thrilling, not perfect by any means, but slowly was pushing Watford back.

 

On another break Hinds released the ball down the left, it found its way to Kelly, who took on his man and drilled a low cross into the box that evaded everyone except Bobby Reid, who slammed it past the keeper with interest. We held on grimly versus the Watford onslaught - Will Hughes is a class act and our limiting of him was probably the standout midfield action.

 

Before the end Taylor - on as a sub - would be set free and run in on goal, squaring for O’Dowda’s easy finish. O’Dowda had looked awkward in a compact formation that rarely wanted to go wide, and with this chance just a few years out, he would take an extra touch to switch the ball to his preferred foot, only to see his shot saved. Thankfully, he’d come back stronger:

 

Within minutes City broke again, the ball was spread to O’Dowda, who had a torrid time versus his markers, but this time he sensed blood and powered through two tackles, broke into the box, before squaring it for Eliason - who looked lightweight but simply never stopped running all game, however much he was kicked - to tap in. Delirium right in front of the away end.

 

In the end analysis, we were second best for nearly an hour, good at defending crosses but ultimately sitting compact inviting Watford’s front 4 or 5 (when in possession) to spread the field. The best we managed was springing the ball forward through the middle and asking Diedhiou or Hinds to get it under control. Hinds did so occasionally, but Diedhiou rarely.

 

What changed the game was adding Bobby Reid and he and Hinds moving their defenders more rapidly. Suddenly where we had left Kelly and Vyner flat in the back four and asked O’Dowda and Eliason to attack (in contrast with attacking roles for Bryan and Pisano), in the second half we allowed the full backs to also push up given the speed with which we moved.

 

These overloads shifted the balance of the game and Reid’s smart touches, coupled with Hinds willing running (followed by the same from Taylor) opened up chances for us. But to be fair Hinds opener was out of nothing, but he would go on to start the move that put us in front too. He looks sharp and direct, and contrasted strongly with Watford’s five man front interplay.

 

In the end a sensational win. Make no mistake, Watford played a high line and a formation than granted them a line of five up front much wider than our team, we defended a load of crosses (Magnússon in particular but in the crucial final half hour, Flint more than anyone - he desperately wanted to win) and we broke with pace and purpose - once Diedhiou was off. 

 

Fielding 8 Once again a mix of cracking saves and hopeless long kicks. Kept us in it with one save before the end.

Vyner 7 Solid but exposed more than once by the movement of the Watford forwards, who pushed up 4 or 5 across the front when in possession.

Flint 7 A couple of crucial headed clearances, looked a bit hesitant and jaded first half, but the final half hour he was all over our half defending and clearing balls wherever they fell, a winner and someone we will miss if he is going.

Magnússon 8 Won most of the headers in the first half from Watford’s sustained attacking and really wanted it. Still a bit rusty with the ball at his feet but clearly had a point to prove. Nearly scored with a header that was deflected.

Kelly 9 Our best player once you exclude Super Bobby Reid’s cameo. Won everything he was asked to, took up smart positioning whenever threatened, I don’t think he put a foot wrong. I was incredibly impressed. Set up the winner.

Hegeler 6 Didn’t really get in the game. I don’t think our whole central midfield did and it is clearly our weak link. A few good touches but struggled to get in the game. Certainly didn’t get a foot on the ball and play it, had hands full with Hughes.

O’Neil 7 Marginally better than Hegeler but not great. Misplaced a lot of passes and also struggled with the pace through midfield of Will Hughes and Watford. The fact he played the whole game and kept us in it, deserves some credit.

O’Dowda 7 Given how compact we were, he was asked to do an awful lot on the wing without any support or people to pass to. It wasn’t great to be honest and compounded by missing a sitter. But the later the game went on, the more lethal he became with his pace and direct running, and he ultimately won us the game with his strength and composure for our third.

Eliason 7 Quiet early on, but evident how much he never stopped running or chasing the opportunity to sprint clear, and was roughly treated by a physical Watford side. Takes some fantastic corners which is a major bonus for us too.

Diedhiou 5 A few nice headers but didn’t really get into the game, even though we largely played the ball through the middle. Has the physique and the presence, but the touch and the stamina both look like a work in progress.

Hinds 8 Never stopped running, this guys self belief and energy is infectious. Caused their defenders all sorts of problems, had them back-tracking, and his opener was simply sensational.

 

Subs:

Reid 9 Just looks a class act every time the ball came near him. While most of our play was about springing players on runs at their defence, Reid caused problems simply with sublime touches and losing his markers repeatedly. Goal was deserved.

Smith 7 Had one shocker where he fell over and set them clear on goal, but for the most part came on when we were ahead and chased everything, kicked everything, and helped spring us forward when the opportunity arose. A warrior.

Taylor 7 A great replacement for Hinds, ran at them when they were tiring, gave O’Dowda a goal on a plate, and kept going until the game was won.

If that's "keeping it quick" you might need to serialise your Villa post match report!

Thanks BTW, look forward to your analysis.

[BCFC_Dan]

So can we consider this an occasion where a Lee Johnson substitution has changed the game for the better? Pre-planned or not, replacing Diedhiou with Reid seems to have made the difference.

[Merrick's Marvels]

4 hours ago, JonDolman said:

Joe goes into central midfield if kelly is too good to leave out for me. 

I believe Kelly will only be first choice Left Back when Bryan reaches "peak value" and is flogged - that's now the business model. 

I believe Steve Lansdown wasn't quite accurate in his most recent Radio Bristol interview when he said "Joe Bryan is not for sale" - I believe the true position is "Joe Bryan is not for sale, yet". A small word but it makes quite a difference. That's why SL has also publicly stated that supporters shouldn't get attached to individual players (quite a revealing comment, not just about how City operate now but about the man himself too).

In the meantime it's Golbourne who will be displaced by the emergence of Kelly imo.

And I'm sure the plan is exactly the same for Hinds (McCoulsky) / Reid. Once the club calculate Reid has reached peak value, he'll be sold, to be replaced by someone who hasn't cost us a fortune in transfer fee or wages.

This is easier said than done - as the club's efforts to convince someone to pay north of £5M for Flint demonstrate - but if done successfully it is how you edge closer to that pipe-dream of being financially sustainable.

How you also square this business model with climbing the pyramid at the same time is another matter.

Still, it's progress compared to how things were run before; it's great to watch promising kids making a name for themselves rather than old-timers taking us for mugs; it's great to see us beat Prem opposition.

Well done to all concerned. Please keep it up!

[054123]

If we could just sort our centre mid out.

[Merrick's Marvels]

17 minutes ago, JonDolman said:

I think we only sell Bryan in the future if we get a huge bid and we have identified a quality left back in the transfer market. I don't think we will be trying to sell players like Bryan. We'll be getting bids for players every transfer window if we keep developing young players into quality championship players. So no need to try and force any out. 

Not sure I agree Jon.

Certainly not with your first sentence - if Kelly develops into someone good enough to replace Bryan why on earth would we pay money in the transfer market. Maybe we'd buyt a youngster to develop behind Kelly but not as a first choice, if Kelly is already good enough.

 

[Roger Red Hat]

3 hours ago, JonDolman said:

Yeah I see what you mean. What I'm mainly trying to get at is we won't try and sell any quality first team player unless the money is right, and we know we're okay in that position without him. Whether that's identifying the right player in the transfer market or already having the right player and back up. On Kelly, I think his long term position will be centre back. But we really don't need another one of them at the moment!

Why do you think he'll be centre back?

[Roger Red Hat]

38 minutes ago, JonDolman said:

Because he is really a centre back.

Not any more!