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10 Mad Minutes
Views: 3188
Looks like it happened again. This time between the 60th and 70th minutes. Normally we have a mad 5 when it all goes pear shape. This time we stretched it out to 10! Obviously the team was holding their own but it seems like every game it happens. One goal leads to another. It's OK conceding one goal, shit happens, but why does it so often lead to plenty more in Hendon's case? Every team can concede but when you concede in batches like we do, that's a recipe for disaster. The team is obviously trying hard and has no problem scoring but there's so many flaws in the team that you'd even worry if you were 3 up with 10 min on the clock! Yeah I know...us being 3 up..like that's ever gonna happen! Roll on Dulwich!
Re: 10 Mad Minutes
Views: 2854
More like roll Dulwich over!!!
We looked more solid than all season and had a big chance to go 2 up. The return of "big Dave" has made us more competitive, new goalkeeper an organiser and shot stopper.
As Sam Brown sang there's a change coming.
Re: 10 Mad Minutes
Views: 2821
First priority - Best wishes to everyone for 2017, thoughts with those of whom have suffered personal losses and hope John Fordham gets back on his feet soon.
Just got back home, another very tough day at the office. Feel for the Gaffer, you get the feeling instructions are just bouncing of the ceiling at present. Staines, their style never changes. Struggled to defend any crosses, back post influx hard to handle. Feel for Arthur, genuine lad, trying to cover the whole damn box. Left-back protected by on this occasion Keagan. The left again woefully exposed. We have no midfield - period. We created two moves in the whole match, literally the only occasions we put more than three passes together. The backs in possession had no viable options or outlets, continually giving back possession. Despite the obvious defensive frailties, the midfield is inoperable. Monday looks like tin-hat time. Just hope that the likes of Dowson present weren't there for easy pickings - that would really put the icing on the cake.
The management and playing staff have the full support of everyone I certainly speak to. What if any further improvements in personnel can be made at this stage is unknown. Getting the right players in the preferred positions as been a fundamental problem.
We have to get functioning and at this stage ninety per cent of that is sheer graft.
Plenty of home games give us the opportunity to get out of this - we have to believe in ourselves.
Time for some alcohol - Relax and go again.
Re: 10 Mad Minutes
Views: 2864
Up following night shift for a journey down by tube, then Overground across to Richmond to catch the SW Train service to Staines. A good brisk walk down to Wheatsheaf Lane, where a good cheeseburger with bacon and onions did just the job. An impressive set up alright, even if £12 admission and £2.50 for the programme is a little on the steep side.
Plenty of Hendon fans had made the journey making themselves heard, especially when Casey Maclaren hammered home as a long throw dropped in the box.
Defence put under pressure but were coping admirably. Early days but Tom Lovelock in goal looks just what was needed. Casey and Arthur Lee were commanding at the back, with Arthur my man of the match. Boy, that lad wants it.
Beefing up the defence meant that the midfield was slightly weakened, even with the competitive edge of Big Dave. The ball was being given away far too cheaply. Keagan didn't have his best game, but he's a young lad and the physical nature of the match didn't suit him.
The two lads up front worked hard. I thought the ref made a shocking decision pulling Reis back for out muscling the last man before we took the lead. That said I could have screamed on occasions as they took up good positions but wandered offside, when just bending their runs would have had them clean through. That I'm sure will come with training and the understanding building between the two. I really like Karl, but in my opinion he needs to be vocal and let his team mates know when he is free or when there is a man on.
I appreciate that lads are carrying knocks, but not pressing the ball up top leads to pressure being put on the defence. Then the cycle goes round again.
The game probably changed when Jamie Smith had to go off injured at half time meaning Luke Tingey having to drop back and weakening the centre of midfield. The big lad who came on can play, but he needs to get fit.
I've come away with real optimism. Just a couple of players and a bit of discipline and want away from being a decent side. A couple of wins and the confidence that goes with it will see the team fine.
See you at Dulwich on Monday. Wishing I wasn't on nights but it will save me a fair few bob with the excellent choice of hostelries down that neck of the woods.
Happy New Year everyone, and thanks for everyone who has made this stranger feel so welcome. I've lived in North West London since 1999, but only since heading down to SJP to watch Dons or Wares and meeting lots of good people and encouraging my mates down have I felt like a proper local resident and part of the community. Money can't buy that.
Re: 10 Mad Minutes
Views: 2670
Rob the feeling is mutual! You and your group of friends have helped to mould SJP. We welcome your input and will continue to provide a place that you enjoy coming too.
I can't wait for the first league win at SJP and will have a happy hour after that first victory with beer at £ a pint!
Gary is totally committed to getting us out of this mire and I will back him every way I can.
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