Post by deadbat on Aug 14, 2024 0:02:24 GMT
The Blades advanced to the second round of the Carabao Cup after an entertaining contest at Bramall Lane on Tuesday evening. In a game where both managers changed most of their starting line ups, United came back from behind to go through with ease in the end. Will Boyle scored after a set play but Auston Trusty responded with a goal of his own from a corner. The second half saw Rhian Brewster contribute with a run and cross that led to a third goal and then his penalty saved and Louis Marsh finished the rebound. Anis Slimane got a fourth goal after the impressive Harry Souttar’s header was saved before Seb Revan scored with almost the last kick to give the scoreline a more realistic feel, as Wrexham had competed and been in the contest for much of the duration.
Chris Wilder changed all eleven from their opening day win whilst Wrexham similarly made wholesale changes with only James McClean remaining from their win on the first day of the season, with ten other changes. United started with 5 academy players with Seriki, Boyes, Hampson, Peck and Marsh all featuring from the off. Debutant Harry Souttar captained the side.
The game began with Wrexham almost ahead after a minute when Brewster failed to clear and the ball was turned inside and Boyle steered his effort goalwards and Grbic made a smart save to turn it around the post. Seriki was looking lively down the right and had two excellent runs, with the second one leading to a corner. From the set play routine, the ball was pulled back and Brewster hit it powerfully on the volley but it flashed over the bar. Seriki had taken two whacks during his enterprising runs and could not carry on. Gilchrist was pressed into action much earlier than his manager would have wanted but came on to replace him. Peck had an effort over the bar and was looking to get on the ball at every opportunity. Brewster had another chance but his shot after Slimane turned inside the box, was straight at Burton.
Just before the half hour mark, the visitors took the lead. Coulibaly had been guilty of dithering on the ball and from one such occurrence, Wrexham won a corner. The delivery was to the far post and Trusty lost his man, Scarr, and as the header came back BOYLE got away from Brewster and Souttar to turn home.
United did react quickly and were level within 6 minutes. It came from a similar source, a corner, as Peck swung the ball in and Trusty made up for his goal with a powerful header across the keeper and despite it being cleared off the line, the referee checked his watch and signalled it had crossed the line.
Peck continued to impress with his aggression and desire to get on the ball and McClean was booked for a poor challenge on him, this was after he had committed offences earlier that led to the departure of Seriki. The game had swung from end to end and whilst United had created chances and restored parity, Wrexham had two opportunities just before the break to restore the lead. Grbic denied Rathbone and then an excellent chance came when the ball was knocked forward and as Gilchrist waited for his keeper, Revan nipped in and his toe poke went narrowly wide nearly exploiting the hesitancy from the Blades defence.
There were no changes at the break and the game lacked the chances of the first half but United were enjoying more of the ball and youngsters Peck, Marsh and Hampson linking well at times. Souttar was dominant in the air, winning everything but nearly scored with his feet as the ball dropped after his initial breast down fell back into his path but his shot went just wide. On 57 minutes, the Blades took the lead Brewster won the ball and exchanged passes with Hampson and darted down the right. His cross-field ball deflected in off BRUNT and whilst Brewster celebrated and the PA gave it to him, it was clearly an own goal.
Marriott, Fletcher and Lee came on for Dalby, McClean and Rathbone in a triple change for the visitors. United were moving it around nicely now and Peck was at the heart of most good things but Brewster was buoyed from his part in the goal and was looking sharp. A decent piece of build up saw the ball played into Slimane and as he advanced into the box, Bolton upended him and the award of the spot kick seemed routine. After Peck held the ball, Brewster took it to cheers from the crowd who were desperate for him to score but his effort was poor and too close to the keeper. Fortunately, MARSH was following in and did well to finish.
Immediately after the third goal, Marsh, Brewster and Boyes left the field and Hamer, One and Norrington Davies came on with 20 minutes remaining. Hamer tried to show off some party pieces and Slimane had an opportunity but was crowded out.
Hampson was replaced by Brooks with 10 minutes to go and he had a great chance came when Slimane teed him up but the finish was too close the keeper. United won a corner from the result of this move and Brooks delivery to far post was met by Souttar. Burton pushed the ball out and SLIMANE turned it into the roof of the net from close range.
One nearly got in as United were now in rampant mood after good work from Hamer just before the game entered four minutes of stoppage time. Fletcher’s overhead effort was ambitious but Wrexham did have the final word as Lee fed REVAN and he drove under Grbic to give the Red Dragons a consolation goal. After the ball had gone into the net, Marriott and Peck became involved in a skirmish that saw others get involved from both teams and it took some time for players to be separated. The main instigators, Marriott and Peck, were both booked. It was not long before Keith Stroud brought proceedings to an end and United advance into the next round and got some valuable minutes into players in a fulfilling night for Chris Wilder and his men.
United – It was a good night in the sense that we won the game, scored four goals and came back from conceding to go on and win easily in the end. It was a competitive game and there were chances at both ends but the Blades in the end were the better team and deserved winners. There were a number of positives collectively and individually. I felt we kept our composure and played some good football at times and did not panic to going behind. We played some neat stuff and were patient and did not go long trying to play through a compact and organised side. The goals were not goals that will live long in the memory but we saw despite my comments about the football we played, we were dangerous on set plays and two came from corners. I think if Souttar plays, with Moore too, and the likes of Burrows delivery allied to Hamer and O’Hare, then we have some real threats aerially with people who can deliver good balls too into the box.
Going back to tonight, I thought that Hampson and Marsh showed some flashes but that Seriki was very good till he went off. However, the stand out of all the youngsters by some distance was Peck who gave a superbly mature display and got stronger as the game went on. He was very good and enjoyed watching his take the game on and face up to more experienced players. Behind him Souttar was excellent and won every header and looked commanding. I still was not totally convinced by Grbic and Trusty whose weaknesses were exposed at times again but both had good moments too. I felt that Brewster was another who showed some energetic and positive pieces of play mixed with snatching at things and poor choices too. Slimane did a few decent things but at times the game passed him by too. A few showed that are probably not quite at the level we need and maybe it is time to move on – namely Boyes and Coulibaly (granted you could say the same about Grbic and Trusty but these will be hard to shift). I thought Coulibaly was diabolical most of the night and constantly gave the ball away or got caught. I was surprised he remained on till the end and thought the youngster Peck, carried him.
Sometimes when you change that many (both teams) it can be a bit flat but the rivalry from before maybe piqued the interest of both sets of supporters and it was a lively contest on the field and in the terraces (chants back and forth). It was an entertaining game and with several chances and goals and so those that went probably were glad they did (I enjoyed it and was surprised as when I saw the two teams thought it might be a scrappy and disjointed game).
I think Wilder will be pleased that he has a few really pushing those in the team (Souttar and Peck) and with Cooper and Rak Sayki in the stand then we have further competition. It’s early days but 2 wins out of 2, albeit against a poor side in Preston and a League One team, is a good start. Saturday feels very important in getting a positive performance and result when the Lane will be much fuller. We have not won a league match at home since December (last year!) – my wife missed that and said tonight was the first time she had seen United win for nearly 10 months! – so feel we really need to build on what we have done. I expect the line up with be the same as last week but expect the new lads to be on the bench perhaps.
Ratings:
Grbic 6/10 – He did ok tonight. He made one really good save early on and another ok one second half and punched a few away. I still worry whenever it goes near him. Maybe it is the past stuff but I felt he was quite hesitant to come off his line first half and with his feet I had my heart in my mouth a few times. The chance when Gilchrist dithered, he seemed to wait and wait but at least second half he came out and was more decisive as he came out twice. Fourth went through him somewhat but not really blaming him. He did punch a few away but even these I felt a goalie of his size should come out and clutch these. Overall, he made a few saves and did some decent things and might be the best he has ever played. Not sure he will ever play for us again – with Cooper coming in- you expect a loan move to the continent to be fixed up by his agent you would think/hope?
Seriki 7.5/10 – Began the game superbly and was maybe our brightest spark to begin things as he got down the right side and created a few chances or won a corner. He looked trickery, quick and sharp but then got a whack and then got another one and had to go off. Think McClean was guilty of at least one? He has done well in his cameos both last week and today but now we are a bit short down this side and a blow to him as he looked like he can come in and do a job.
Boyes 5/10 – Thought he was the opposite of Seriki in terms of how he started the game and seemed slow to react and his control/passing was off. He seemed hesitant and got caught a few times or gave a few poor balls. Did settle down for a period and some better bits of play and was more assured and got forward a few times to link up. Second half he did better but still made the wrong decision with his passes or they were not quite weighted right. I am surprised he is still here and with RND back and the two new left backs – expect him to go on loan again.
Souttar 8/10 – Excellent. Started a bit slow and maybe the goal he was guilty of turned his back but I would argue it was Brewster’s man originally? However, showed he was a real threat the other way as he won a few corners or was involved in half chances. Fired one wide second half and then set up the fourth with a strong header that was saved. Real asset to have this when we win free kicks/corners we get into the box. In between these, he won every header, was first to the ball and looked so dominant and imposing. Rare for a debutant to captain a side (recall Michael Higdon doing this in recent times – maybe Martin Kuhl going further back – anyone else?). I expect we will keep the same side as Preston but shown he will be used soon and if either of the centre backs drop off or Anel moves on, then can step in.
Trusty 5.5/10 – Saw Wilder say both centre backs were excellent but I was not convinced by Trusty again sadly. Yes, he scored the goal – a good powerful header but he completely lost his man on the goal (did this so many times last season) and often was not strong enough in challenges. He is so limited with the ball as he comes out and then just lays it back or sideways as lacks ability/confidence to play a forward pass. He did some ok things second half and used the ball quicker but still at times lose those physical battles and does not impose himself enough. The fourth goal his header away is weak and they seize on it. A few other times they won corners when he sort of just lost the challenge when confronted neat the touchline.
Coulibaly 2/10 – I thought he was wretched almost from start to finish other than a better spell for 10 minutes second half. A few sideways passes apart, he did not do anything right from start to finish. He played so many hospital balls or straight to them, often when under no pressure. When they did pressure him, he coughed it up or just got muscled out of it. He was so slow and his awareness of what was going on was so limited. Three times his dithering first half led to them breaking and nearly scoring. Second half he at least found a red and white shirt a few times but still gave it away a lot. Twice when in his box he completely ‘air shotted’ the ball when trying to clear. He just looked miles off the standard (this against mostly League One reserves/back ups) and I am not sure he can say he is out of match practice either as he has been playing in Sweden. Be surprised if we get a fee for him and expect us to terminate his contract and allow him to find a new club you would think? Just not worked for him here but he is nowhere near the standard required. The youngsters looked far better than him and they were carrying him when he should have been one of the more experienced ones leading the way.
Peck 8/10 – The complete opposite of Coulibaly! He was good on the ball, physically strong and positive in his passing and running. Showed his ability to pick up the ball on the half turn and was able to pass both short and long. He also was up for the physical battle coming out of several 50-50’s with the ball and showed at the end, he would not back down after the melee. Thought he just got better and better and by the end his confidence was oozing. The fact he tried to lob the keeper from nearly half way showed his belief. He just looked a complete midfielder. He seems to have grown (height and physique – the latter particularly) since those cameos when Wilder came in. Looks a man now rather than boy but that grown allied to his play on the ball means he has a bit of everything. Do not want to get carried away as it was only some of Wrexham’s fringe players but he was the big plus from the night. We can probably see why Dozzell was not kept after his performance? I still would like another experience player in here (or Davies to somehow get fit!) but he may be kept around now if we cannot bring another into this area. Really impressed tonight and deservedly man of the match. Apparently Wilder’s last signing before he left the club last time (guess Academy had a fair bit to do with it too?).
Slimane 6.5/10 – This mark may seem a touch low for someone who scored and won a penalty but he flatters to deceive a lot for me. Yes, this seems at odds with my first description of his goal involvements but he had the ball a lot and took too long or tried to overplay amongst some decent part of his game. He is another that the pace seems too much (Couliably, Traore etc also are/were in this category) for him in the English game. To be fair there were a few nice bits of skill and runs and he did get involved in some of our better attacks but he seems to shy away from the physical aspect and not sure his decision making is always the best. I was quite impressed pre season but not sure he plays more than a bit part role if he remains.
Hampson 6/10 – Thought he was ok and will be pleased to get his first start. He has of course done will in pre-season and scored a few goals so deserved his chance. I thought he struggled to get into the game to start with but either side of half time he became more involved and got on the ball more. Few bits of link play and then set up Brewster in the build-up. He then had a few other decent moments and one cross shot wide but then got tired and made a couple of gives aways and was rightly taken off. We will maybe look to get him out on loan.
Marsh 6/10 – As above, felt he struggled to make an impact early on but he did then at least get on the ball and linked a few times with Peck in the first half. Second half he got into better areas after a poor start to the half again but still looked for the ball. Had a decent spell of play where he started to turn and run at defenders more and then took his goal really well (technically he was encroaching as was inside the D and in the Premier League would have been ruled out). I think he can do more and will see how Peck took his chance. Definitely needs a loan move also.
Brewster 6/10 – His overall play was closer to a 7 but he missed a penalty and two other decent chances too so have to bring it down as he is a striker and sadly he simply does not score goals. The first one he missed was a volley and he met it well but smashed it over (not saying this was a bad miss but again off target if well hit). The second chance he has to do better and hits it straight at the keeper. Seems obsessed with smashing the ball really hard and lacks composure. The penalty weirdly was not hit hard and placed more and the keeper saved rather easily. He has now taken 3 penalties for United and missed them all. A good strikers should score penalties but he never looks like scoring, even from 12 yards! The rest of his play was ok and he linked with others, held it up and ran the channels. Made the second goal with a run and cross and had a few others decent moments similar to this. Tried hard and his overall play was ok but he never looks like scoring and continues to snatch at things. I hope and think Campbell will be a better option than him from the bench, when he is fit and expect another striker to possibly come in too.
Subs -
Gilchrist 4/10 – I have to say I thought he was excellent in his debut but he really struggled today, albeit coming off the bench when Wilder would not have really wanted to use him. Did not look at ease at all and dare I say looked like he had rarely played right back before – when the opposite looked the case at Preston. He looked hesitant and did not attack the ball and offered very little going forward. He did not react to balls forward and they nearly scored on half time when he waited for Grbic when he should have just cleared it. Second half I thought his indecision continued and they had a few moments down his side when he did not deal with things. The final goal he completely switched off. Worrying thing for me was that positionally he was all over the place. Hopefully he can get back to the standards of Friday – when we face QPR.
Hamer 6/10 – Few lovely tricks and flicks but also some overplay and trying to do too much. He seemed to want to show the crowd his full repertoire and sometimes it came off – a few clever balls played into One/Slimane – but other times he lost it and they came away. I was a bit surprised he came on but he had limited minutes in pre-season so is one who may need some game time to get fully up to speed.
Norrington Davies 5.5/10 – Steady enough. Shocked he was involved to be honest. We have a real log jam down the left-hand side so not sure where he fits in and will need games for the u21’s/further League Cup to prove he can stay fit before he is really in the mix for the first team in the league.
One 6/10 – Another that seems to have grown since the end of least season (maybe it is the kit!) but for someone who has just turned 18 – he is some unit! He had a few moments of promise and a lovely bit of skill nearly got him in. A few times he was nearly in on goal. Looks powerful but from having seen him in the u21’s, he lacks the mobility/pace of maybe Osula/Jebbison but is another youngster we can hopefully develop.
Brooks – Brought on for the final 10 minutes. Had one really good chance but never really got it away properly. I do worry that when he gets opportunities like this (played well at Preston but snatched at another few here) he does not always find the end product. Did take a good deep corner for the fourth goal. Has Rak Sakyi coming in but expect he will keep his place, at least on Saturday.
Manager: Wilder 7.5/10 – Will be delighted to get a win and to see some of the fringe/younger players come in and a fair few did well. He will feel a lot better than maybe he did after that interview after Huddersfield when it seemed we were struggling to get players through the door and there was seemingly some uncertainty. Since then, we have managed to make some good signings and started the season well so seems to be a lot chippier!
Wrexham – They made a lot of changes like us but started well and nearly led before they did and had chances to go back in front despite us having opportunities too. They were well in the game for long spells and they too had a different team and some new/younger players starting. They did go long a fair bit and also some quite crude challenges came in (McClean main victim of this) after the ball but will say they wanted to be competitive and would not roll over. They came and had a go. I think 4-2 was probably about right in the end. They scored two decent goals but will be disappointed with their defending on set plays – Parkinson whined about a clear block (was there?) but they were grappling and grabbing too on such corners. They brought a decent amount of fans to be fair (the Spanish flags were a bit sad – one guy with one of these flags seemed to want to take on the whole South Stand himself) but many started to leave when the 4th goals went in. Parkinson seemed an irritating sort of character who a bit like our own manager can be quite bitter when things do not go his way and is lucky to have the wealthy backing he has. This year they will find it harder with some big clubs at League One level and some (Birmingham) having spent a lot more but expect them to be around the middle of the league with some of the players they have and would not be shocked if they were around the playoffs.
Opponent Man of the Match – Revan – scored the late goal but thought he was lively and a threat throughout and caused Gilchrist a number of problems. Lee looked decent when he came on and made the fourth with a good run and pass – can see why he has impressed as they have moved up the leagues.
Opponent Weak link – McClean – seemed more bothered about kicking our young players than playing the game. He got booked and then went off. Fletcher looked lumbering and slow in the brief time he had on the pitch.
Referee/Officials – Keith Stroud. Despite Parkinson’s desperate rant for a decision that he said was clear (did Sky even see it/mention it before?) Stroud was fine much of the game. Handled the bust up at the end well and the penalty was an easy call. He also gave a foul throw for a clear foot up! He was ok and kept his cards in his pocket till he had to use them. I felt that he maybe could have booked McClean before he did – for his cynical foul on Seriki – even though it was early. The rest of the game, he tried to play advantage when he could and even though I have seen him have poor games down here, he was alright tonight.
Crowd – Decent crowd wit 11,446 in attendance. Wrexham brought maybe 1,500 (?) fans too which was decent for a midweek. South Stand was pretty full and John Street maybe half full or a bit more. Atmosphere was ok to say the Kop was not open and the history of a few years ago between the two sides, even though Wilder said he gets on with Parkinson (started out at Southampton with him as kids) and his assistant Steve Parkin (a Blades fan), that added some spice to it. The fact Wrexham led also maybe woke up the home fans when we did get level in terms of the barbs/back and forth of chants. I think the home fans appreciated the efforts of the young players in particular and it was a decent and enjoyable evening overall. Most people seemed to have no issues with the new way of getting in with your phone too! Positive for the bigger crowd on Saturday!
Chris Wilder changed all eleven from their opening day win whilst Wrexham similarly made wholesale changes with only James McClean remaining from their win on the first day of the season, with ten other changes. United started with 5 academy players with Seriki, Boyes, Hampson, Peck and Marsh all featuring from the off. Debutant Harry Souttar captained the side.
The game began with Wrexham almost ahead after a minute when Brewster failed to clear and the ball was turned inside and Boyle steered his effort goalwards and Grbic made a smart save to turn it around the post. Seriki was looking lively down the right and had two excellent runs, with the second one leading to a corner. From the set play routine, the ball was pulled back and Brewster hit it powerfully on the volley but it flashed over the bar. Seriki had taken two whacks during his enterprising runs and could not carry on. Gilchrist was pressed into action much earlier than his manager would have wanted but came on to replace him. Peck had an effort over the bar and was looking to get on the ball at every opportunity. Brewster had another chance but his shot after Slimane turned inside the box, was straight at Burton.
Just before the half hour mark, the visitors took the lead. Coulibaly had been guilty of dithering on the ball and from one such occurrence, Wrexham won a corner. The delivery was to the far post and Trusty lost his man, Scarr, and as the header came back BOYLE got away from Brewster and Souttar to turn home.
United did react quickly and were level within 6 minutes. It came from a similar source, a corner, as Peck swung the ball in and Trusty made up for his goal with a powerful header across the keeper and despite it being cleared off the line, the referee checked his watch and signalled it had crossed the line.
Peck continued to impress with his aggression and desire to get on the ball and McClean was booked for a poor challenge on him, this was after he had committed offences earlier that led to the departure of Seriki. The game had swung from end to end and whilst United had created chances and restored parity, Wrexham had two opportunities just before the break to restore the lead. Grbic denied Rathbone and then an excellent chance came when the ball was knocked forward and as Gilchrist waited for his keeper, Revan nipped in and his toe poke went narrowly wide nearly exploiting the hesitancy from the Blades defence.
There were no changes at the break and the game lacked the chances of the first half but United were enjoying more of the ball and youngsters Peck, Marsh and Hampson linking well at times. Souttar was dominant in the air, winning everything but nearly scored with his feet as the ball dropped after his initial breast down fell back into his path but his shot went just wide. On 57 minutes, the Blades took the lead Brewster won the ball and exchanged passes with Hampson and darted down the right. His cross-field ball deflected in off BRUNT and whilst Brewster celebrated and the PA gave it to him, it was clearly an own goal.
Marriott, Fletcher and Lee came on for Dalby, McClean and Rathbone in a triple change for the visitors. United were moving it around nicely now and Peck was at the heart of most good things but Brewster was buoyed from his part in the goal and was looking sharp. A decent piece of build up saw the ball played into Slimane and as he advanced into the box, Bolton upended him and the award of the spot kick seemed routine. After Peck held the ball, Brewster took it to cheers from the crowd who were desperate for him to score but his effort was poor and too close to the keeper. Fortunately, MARSH was following in and did well to finish.
Immediately after the third goal, Marsh, Brewster and Boyes left the field and Hamer, One and Norrington Davies came on with 20 minutes remaining. Hamer tried to show off some party pieces and Slimane had an opportunity but was crowded out.
Hampson was replaced by Brooks with 10 minutes to go and he had a great chance came when Slimane teed him up but the finish was too close the keeper. United won a corner from the result of this move and Brooks delivery to far post was met by Souttar. Burton pushed the ball out and SLIMANE turned it into the roof of the net from close range.
One nearly got in as United were now in rampant mood after good work from Hamer just before the game entered four minutes of stoppage time. Fletcher’s overhead effort was ambitious but Wrexham did have the final word as Lee fed REVAN and he drove under Grbic to give the Red Dragons a consolation goal. After the ball had gone into the net, Marriott and Peck became involved in a skirmish that saw others get involved from both teams and it took some time for players to be separated. The main instigators, Marriott and Peck, were both booked. It was not long before Keith Stroud brought proceedings to an end and United advance into the next round and got some valuable minutes into players in a fulfilling night for Chris Wilder and his men.
United – It was a good night in the sense that we won the game, scored four goals and came back from conceding to go on and win easily in the end. It was a competitive game and there were chances at both ends but the Blades in the end were the better team and deserved winners. There were a number of positives collectively and individually. I felt we kept our composure and played some good football at times and did not panic to going behind. We played some neat stuff and were patient and did not go long trying to play through a compact and organised side. The goals were not goals that will live long in the memory but we saw despite my comments about the football we played, we were dangerous on set plays and two came from corners. I think if Souttar plays, with Moore too, and the likes of Burrows delivery allied to Hamer and O’Hare, then we have some real threats aerially with people who can deliver good balls too into the box.
Going back to tonight, I thought that Hampson and Marsh showed some flashes but that Seriki was very good till he went off. However, the stand out of all the youngsters by some distance was Peck who gave a superbly mature display and got stronger as the game went on. He was very good and enjoyed watching his take the game on and face up to more experienced players. Behind him Souttar was excellent and won every header and looked commanding. I still was not totally convinced by Grbic and Trusty whose weaknesses were exposed at times again but both had good moments too. I felt that Brewster was another who showed some energetic and positive pieces of play mixed with snatching at things and poor choices too. Slimane did a few decent things but at times the game passed him by too. A few showed that are probably not quite at the level we need and maybe it is time to move on – namely Boyes and Coulibaly (granted you could say the same about Grbic and Trusty but these will be hard to shift). I thought Coulibaly was diabolical most of the night and constantly gave the ball away or got caught. I was surprised he remained on till the end and thought the youngster Peck, carried him.
Sometimes when you change that many (both teams) it can be a bit flat but the rivalry from before maybe piqued the interest of both sets of supporters and it was a lively contest on the field and in the terraces (chants back and forth). It was an entertaining game and with several chances and goals and so those that went probably were glad they did (I enjoyed it and was surprised as when I saw the two teams thought it might be a scrappy and disjointed game).
I think Wilder will be pleased that he has a few really pushing those in the team (Souttar and Peck) and with Cooper and Rak Sayki in the stand then we have further competition. It’s early days but 2 wins out of 2, albeit against a poor side in Preston and a League One team, is a good start. Saturday feels very important in getting a positive performance and result when the Lane will be much fuller. We have not won a league match at home since December (last year!) – my wife missed that and said tonight was the first time she had seen United win for nearly 10 months! – so feel we really need to build on what we have done. I expect the line up with be the same as last week but expect the new lads to be on the bench perhaps.
Ratings:
Grbic 6/10 – He did ok tonight. He made one really good save early on and another ok one second half and punched a few away. I still worry whenever it goes near him. Maybe it is the past stuff but I felt he was quite hesitant to come off his line first half and with his feet I had my heart in my mouth a few times. The chance when Gilchrist dithered, he seemed to wait and wait but at least second half he came out and was more decisive as he came out twice. Fourth went through him somewhat but not really blaming him. He did punch a few away but even these I felt a goalie of his size should come out and clutch these. Overall, he made a few saves and did some decent things and might be the best he has ever played. Not sure he will ever play for us again – with Cooper coming in- you expect a loan move to the continent to be fixed up by his agent you would think/hope?
Seriki 7.5/10 – Began the game superbly and was maybe our brightest spark to begin things as he got down the right side and created a few chances or won a corner. He looked trickery, quick and sharp but then got a whack and then got another one and had to go off. Think McClean was guilty of at least one? He has done well in his cameos both last week and today but now we are a bit short down this side and a blow to him as he looked like he can come in and do a job.
Boyes 5/10 – Thought he was the opposite of Seriki in terms of how he started the game and seemed slow to react and his control/passing was off. He seemed hesitant and got caught a few times or gave a few poor balls. Did settle down for a period and some better bits of play and was more assured and got forward a few times to link up. Second half he did better but still made the wrong decision with his passes or they were not quite weighted right. I am surprised he is still here and with RND back and the two new left backs – expect him to go on loan again.
Souttar 8/10 – Excellent. Started a bit slow and maybe the goal he was guilty of turned his back but I would argue it was Brewster’s man originally? However, showed he was a real threat the other way as he won a few corners or was involved in half chances. Fired one wide second half and then set up the fourth with a strong header that was saved. Real asset to have this when we win free kicks/corners we get into the box. In between these, he won every header, was first to the ball and looked so dominant and imposing. Rare for a debutant to captain a side (recall Michael Higdon doing this in recent times – maybe Martin Kuhl going further back – anyone else?). I expect we will keep the same side as Preston but shown he will be used soon and if either of the centre backs drop off or Anel moves on, then can step in.
Trusty 5.5/10 – Saw Wilder say both centre backs were excellent but I was not convinced by Trusty again sadly. Yes, he scored the goal – a good powerful header but he completely lost his man on the goal (did this so many times last season) and often was not strong enough in challenges. He is so limited with the ball as he comes out and then just lays it back or sideways as lacks ability/confidence to play a forward pass. He did some ok things second half and used the ball quicker but still at times lose those physical battles and does not impose himself enough. The fourth goal his header away is weak and they seize on it. A few other times they won corners when he sort of just lost the challenge when confronted neat the touchline.
Coulibaly 2/10 – I thought he was wretched almost from start to finish other than a better spell for 10 minutes second half. A few sideways passes apart, he did not do anything right from start to finish. He played so many hospital balls or straight to them, often when under no pressure. When they did pressure him, he coughed it up or just got muscled out of it. He was so slow and his awareness of what was going on was so limited. Three times his dithering first half led to them breaking and nearly scoring. Second half he at least found a red and white shirt a few times but still gave it away a lot. Twice when in his box he completely ‘air shotted’ the ball when trying to clear. He just looked miles off the standard (this against mostly League One reserves/back ups) and I am not sure he can say he is out of match practice either as he has been playing in Sweden. Be surprised if we get a fee for him and expect us to terminate his contract and allow him to find a new club you would think? Just not worked for him here but he is nowhere near the standard required. The youngsters looked far better than him and they were carrying him when he should have been one of the more experienced ones leading the way.
Peck 8/10 – The complete opposite of Coulibaly! He was good on the ball, physically strong and positive in his passing and running. Showed his ability to pick up the ball on the half turn and was able to pass both short and long. He also was up for the physical battle coming out of several 50-50’s with the ball and showed at the end, he would not back down after the melee. Thought he just got better and better and by the end his confidence was oozing. The fact he tried to lob the keeper from nearly half way showed his belief. He just looked a complete midfielder. He seems to have grown (height and physique – the latter particularly) since those cameos when Wilder came in. Looks a man now rather than boy but that grown allied to his play on the ball means he has a bit of everything. Do not want to get carried away as it was only some of Wrexham’s fringe players but he was the big plus from the night. We can probably see why Dozzell was not kept after his performance? I still would like another experience player in here (or Davies to somehow get fit!) but he may be kept around now if we cannot bring another into this area. Really impressed tonight and deservedly man of the match. Apparently Wilder’s last signing before he left the club last time (guess Academy had a fair bit to do with it too?).
Slimane 6.5/10 – This mark may seem a touch low for someone who scored and won a penalty but he flatters to deceive a lot for me. Yes, this seems at odds with my first description of his goal involvements but he had the ball a lot and took too long or tried to overplay amongst some decent part of his game. He is another that the pace seems too much (Couliably, Traore etc also are/were in this category) for him in the English game. To be fair there were a few nice bits of skill and runs and he did get involved in some of our better attacks but he seems to shy away from the physical aspect and not sure his decision making is always the best. I was quite impressed pre season but not sure he plays more than a bit part role if he remains.
Hampson 6/10 – Thought he was ok and will be pleased to get his first start. He has of course done will in pre-season and scored a few goals so deserved his chance. I thought he struggled to get into the game to start with but either side of half time he became more involved and got on the ball more. Few bits of link play and then set up Brewster in the build-up. He then had a few other decent moments and one cross shot wide but then got tired and made a couple of gives aways and was rightly taken off. We will maybe look to get him out on loan.
Marsh 6/10 – As above, felt he struggled to make an impact early on but he did then at least get on the ball and linked a few times with Peck in the first half. Second half he got into better areas after a poor start to the half again but still looked for the ball. Had a decent spell of play where he started to turn and run at defenders more and then took his goal really well (technically he was encroaching as was inside the D and in the Premier League would have been ruled out). I think he can do more and will see how Peck took his chance. Definitely needs a loan move also.
Brewster 6/10 – His overall play was closer to a 7 but he missed a penalty and two other decent chances too so have to bring it down as he is a striker and sadly he simply does not score goals. The first one he missed was a volley and he met it well but smashed it over (not saying this was a bad miss but again off target if well hit). The second chance he has to do better and hits it straight at the keeper. Seems obsessed with smashing the ball really hard and lacks composure. The penalty weirdly was not hit hard and placed more and the keeper saved rather easily. He has now taken 3 penalties for United and missed them all. A good strikers should score penalties but he never looks like scoring, even from 12 yards! The rest of his play was ok and he linked with others, held it up and ran the channels. Made the second goal with a run and cross and had a few others decent moments similar to this. Tried hard and his overall play was ok but he never looks like scoring and continues to snatch at things. I hope and think Campbell will be a better option than him from the bench, when he is fit and expect another striker to possibly come in too.
Subs -
Gilchrist 4/10 – I have to say I thought he was excellent in his debut but he really struggled today, albeit coming off the bench when Wilder would not have really wanted to use him. Did not look at ease at all and dare I say looked like he had rarely played right back before – when the opposite looked the case at Preston. He looked hesitant and did not attack the ball and offered very little going forward. He did not react to balls forward and they nearly scored on half time when he waited for Grbic when he should have just cleared it. Second half I thought his indecision continued and they had a few moments down his side when he did not deal with things. The final goal he completely switched off. Worrying thing for me was that positionally he was all over the place. Hopefully he can get back to the standards of Friday – when we face QPR.
Hamer 6/10 – Few lovely tricks and flicks but also some overplay and trying to do too much. He seemed to want to show the crowd his full repertoire and sometimes it came off – a few clever balls played into One/Slimane – but other times he lost it and they came away. I was a bit surprised he came on but he had limited minutes in pre-season so is one who may need some game time to get fully up to speed.
Norrington Davies 5.5/10 – Steady enough. Shocked he was involved to be honest. We have a real log jam down the left-hand side so not sure where he fits in and will need games for the u21’s/further League Cup to prove he can stay fit before he is really in the mix for the first team in the league.
One 6/10 – Another that seems to have grown since the end of least season (maybe it is the kit!) but for someone who has just turned 18 – he is some unit! He had a few moments of promise and a lovely bit of skill nearly got him in. A few times he was nearly in on goal. Looks powerful but from having seen him in the u21’s, he lacks the mobility/pace of maybe Osula/Jebbison but is another youngster we can hopefully develop.
Brooks – Brought on for the final 10 minutes. Had one really good chance but never really got it away properly. I do worry that when he gets opportunities like this (played well at Preston but snatched at another few here) he does not always find the end product. Did take a good deep corner for the fourth goal. Has Rak Sakyi coming in but expect he will keep his place, at least on Saturday.
Manager: Wilder 7.5/10 – Will be delighted to get a win and to see some of the fringe/younger players come in and a fair few did well. He will feel a lot better than maybe he did after that interview after Huddersfield when it seemed we were struggling to get players through the door and there was seemingly some uncertainty. Since then, we have managed to make some good signings and started the season well so seems to be a lot chippier!
Wrexham – They made a lot of changes like us but started well and nearly led before they did and had chances to go back in front despite us having opportunities too. They were well in the game for long spells and they too had a different team and some new/younger players starting. They did go long a fair bit and also some quite crude challenges came in (McClean main victim of this) after the ball but will say they wanted to be competitive and would not roll over. They came and had a go. I think 4-2 was probably about right in the end. They scored two decent goals but will be disappointed with their defending on set plays – Parkinson whined about a clear block (was there?) but they were grappling and grabbing too on such corners. They brought a decent amount of fans to be fair (the Spanish flags were a bit sad – one guy with one of these flags seemed to want to take on the whole South Stand himself) but many started to leave when the 4th goals went in. Parkinson seemed an irritating sort of character who a bit like our own manager can be quite bitter when things do not go his way and is lucky to have the wealthy backing he has. This year they will find it harder with some big clubs at League One level and some (Birmingham) having spent a lot more but expect them to be around the middle of the league with some of the players they have and would not be shocked if they were around the playoffs.
Opponent Man of the Match – Revan – scored the late goal but thought he was lively and a threat throughout and caused Gilchrist a number of problems. Lee looked decent when he came on and made the fourth with a good run and pass – can see why he has impressed as they have moved up the leagues.
Opponent Weak link – McClean – seemed more bothered about kicking our young players than playing the game. He got booked and then went off. Fletcher looked lumbering and slow in the brief time he had on the pitch.
Referee/Officials – Keith Stroud. Despite Parkinson’s desperate rant for a decision that he said was clear (did Sky even see it/mention it before?) Stroud was fine much of the game. Handled the bust up at the end well and the penalty was an easy call. He also gave a foul throw for a clear foot up! He was ok and kept his cards in his pocket till he had to use them. I felt that he maybe could have booked McClean before he did – for his cynical foul on Seriki – even though it was early. The rest of the game, he tried to play advantage when he could and even though I have seen him have poor games down here, he was alright tonight.
Crowd – Decent crowd wit 11,446 in attendance. Wrexham brought maybe 1,500 (?) fans too which was decent for a midweek. South Stand was pretty full and John Street maybe half full or a bit more. Atmosphere was ok to say the Kop was not open and the history of a few years ago between the two sides, even though Wilder said he gets on with Parkinson (started out at Southampton with him as kids) and his assistant Steve Parkin (a Blades fan), that added some spice to it. The fact Wrexham led also maybe woke up the home fans when we did get level in terms of the barbs/back and forth of chants. I think the home fans appreciated the efforts of the young players in particular and it was a decent and enjoyable evening overall. Most people seemed to have no issues with the new way of getting in with your phone too! Positive for the bigger crowd on Saturday!
