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Post by ritchielegend on Feb 13, 2009 13:11:10 GMT
I am taking a well earned rest in Spain.I mean of course a rest from the stress caused by our up and down season.Its always been tough being a Stokie and things dont change. So what do I think of it so far.Firstly I am really glad to be in the top flight and am totally grateful to Coates and Pulis and the players for getting us here.However! I do think there are a few positves and negatives that in my humble opinion need to be acknowledged. Firstly the positives.The passion of the players and supporters is outstanding.I am sure the crowd have been responsible for quite a few points at home this season and the way the players respond says a lot about there will to win.Pulis hasnt the resources to buy the best in terms of skill and talent but in general he does bring in players who commit to the cause.I am sure he would have brought in a midfield general if he could but where are they.Watching England the other night its clear this is a problem for most clubs operating on a tight budget.The same goes for fullbacks strikers and wide men.I also think that some of the fringe players may yet prove to be good investments either home grown or bought.They need time to develop and going out on loan will help them to. Coates financial backing demands applause.So does his loyalty to Pulis.Look at the mess at other clubs.Our own history also teaches us an important lesson that changing managers only makes matters worse.Some times there is a short term gain but it normally doesnt last.Finally on the positive side I think Pulis has handled himself well in front of the media.His reluctance to look the other way when his players offend sets him apart from a few top managers,Wenger particularly. Now the negatives.Player indiscipline has cost us dearly.If you are beaten by a better side you have to accept it but to lose because of avoidable sending offs makes me angry.I dont mean mistimed tackles but the stupidity of the actions against West Ham and Sunderland.It must be stopped!Also our away form.I have this feeling that the manager coaching staff and players have forgotten the old idea that the best place to defend is in the oppositions half.We sit way too deep and dont have enough pace to threaten too often on the break.The home performance against Arsenal proves we can do it.We competed in midfield and kept the ball on the ground and frustrated their players by challenging further up the field.This is a good tactic home or away. I could go on but now for my biggest complaint,which is against us who come on here.Positive critics are those who dont blame ,who offer praise when due and ideas and support when things go wrong.I really think we can escape this season but would remind the club and supporters that Unity is Strength.Now where have I heard that before.
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Post by mitchandtitch on Feb 13, 2009 13:26:05 GMT
Enjoy Spain.......
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