Post by deadbat on Oct 26, 2024 19:20:30 GMT
On an incredibly difficult and emotional afternoon at Bramall Lane, the Blades got back to winning ways and gave a fitting tribute to the late George Baldock in a 2-0 victory over a poor Stoke City outfit. Goals from the front two, Kieffer Moore and Tyrese Campbell, saw off the Potters in a game that United dominated from start to finish and on another day could have won by a greater margin.
Manager Wilder rotated his side again with Burrows, Souza (back from suspension) and Campbell into the starting eleven. Gus Hamer was out after picking up his fifth booking in the midweek game at the Riverside. Youngsters Luke Faxon and Ryan One were on the bench with former Stoke men Adam Davies and Rhys Norrington Davies out with injuries. Stoke began with former Blade Enda Stevens getting a rare start.
Prior to kick off, there was a moving series of tributes to United’s former Star Man with his song being played as the teams came out, a giant flag carried around the Kop and a minute’s applause. Former United hero Stevens laid a wreath around the right back area in the visitor’s half, whereas at the other end, United did likewise and huddled as one as a team in the area where Baldock plied his trade so successfully.
The game started slowly and on 2 minutes, another lust rendition of the David Bowie song engulfed the Bramall Lane terraces before United started to get on top. Souza was swarming round the ball and both full backs were high up the field with United pushing Stoke back. United won a free kick after Arblaster was tripped and after Burrows free kick was blocked, the ball fell to Gilchrist who hit a long range shot that MOORE managed to skilfully divert into the corner. It was his first goal for some time and gave United the vital lead.
Souza then had an effort saved from range by Johansson, O’Hare had an effort blocked and then Hamer had two headed efforts that he might have done better with; the second an excellent ball from Burrows. United were well in control and with Rak Sayki causing problems, jinking away from two men before being crowded out, Stoke were struggling to get out. Arblaster was back to his best, after two quiet games and Souttar was winning everything and getting to the ball first. It was a very one-sided game so far.
A series of stoppages for injuries for Stoke players threatened to disrupt the rhythm for the home side as Pelach tried to use these mini time outs to broker a response but his side struggled to create anything of note. A trio of bookings with Ahmedhodzic, Gibson and then Campbell – for kicking the ball away – ended the half but United were good value for their lead.
The second half saw Stoke make an immediate change as Bae Jun-Ho came on for the disappointing Cannon and the South Korean showed a few neat touches to get the visitors up the field. Souza took Manhoef out for a cheap booking but soon after United got their second goal. It came as Gibson slipped and Rak Sayki took advantage, driving forward before feeding CAMPBELL who swivelled and hit his shot goalwards. Johannson got a hand on it, but could not keep it out and the former Stoke man shushed his former fans – silencing them after their previous boos directed towards him in the first half.
Stoke did have a chance as the ball dropped in the box and Phillips lashed the ball narrowly wide with Ahmedhodzic claiming a foul in the build-up. United went back on the attack and the superb Souza not only chased back twice to make interceptions, but then had another searing drive that Johansson had to help over.
Campbell and Rak Sayki came off for Brewster and Brooks on 64 minutes with Bocat replacing Gibson for the Staffordshire side. Stoke finally forced Cooper into a save. Ironically it came from the normally rock-solid keeper, hitting an errant pass out and led to Stoke coming through and Koumas’ effort had to be pushed behind as he recovered his mistake. Arblaster then went on a mazy run down the left before having to have treatment after he got caught when crossing the ball.
Burger had another effort well over just before he was withdrawn with Seko taking his place. Moore nearly got in again from Burrows before McCallum and Shackleton replaced O’Hare and Gilchrist. The Blades were cruising and some lovely one touch stuff saw Arblaster and Souza move the ball around and United just were playing keep ball frustrating a beleaguered Stoke side.
Vidigal replaced Tchamadeu for Stoke but they lacked any kind of belief by this stage and were well beaten before the time had elapsed. The final chance for either side came when Brooks was played in and cut inside but his shot was blocked and then Shackleton’s effort was pushed round the post as it headed for the top corner.
As the game moved into 5 minutes stoppage time, Peck came on for Moore and Souttar and Ahmedhodzic stepped in again to see off any chance of a late consolation. Fittingly the Geore Baldock song was sang all around the ground again in the final moments of the game before the referee ended proceedings. Wilder gather all the players and staff together to talk to them before the team moved toward the Kop and held up a number 2 shirt with Baldock’s name upon it, in a final tribute to their popular former teammate.
United – A professional and commanding performance where we looked strong at the back again but got back to our best in midfield and Souza and Arblaster ran the game. We missed some chances and their keeper made some good saves but after it went 2-0; the result was never in doubt. Stoke tried to respond but lacked the belief and in the end we had more chances than them and could have won by more. The game sort of petered out and that was fine. Critics may say we could and should have taken it from 2 to 3 and 3 to 4 but we were not really threatened and in the end just moved it about sensibly and killed the game effectively with solid game management.
We started a little slow but the emotion of all the pre game stuff and further chants on the 2nd minute would have course had an impact on the players and fans. However, we quickly got on top and pushed them back and created some half chances before we scored. Rak Sayki was a threat and Souza was superb pouncing on every loose ball. He ran the game with Arblaster a good ally in the midfield. Behind these two Ahmedhodzic and the commanding Soutter were never really tested and Cooper only really had one save to make – caused by his mistake. We had other decent chances or shots that Johannson had to save with two superb ones from Souza’s efforts. He pushed another few away and Moore missed a few other good opportunities with his head.
I thought off the ball we were quicker, pressed better and played higher up the field and made sure they turned the ball over cheaply. We seized on all the loose stuff and won the aerial and physical battles too. We seemed to dominate possession and move it around and made them really tire. At times when we got forward we took too long or made the wrong decisions but did get in some good areas and got more men into the box today too. I thought we had most, if not all, of the games outstanding individual performances and in the end the last half an hour (although a few chances both ways) passed off rather incident free as we just coasted to the win.
Good to get a reaction, after two defeats and we got what we needed – a solid performance and a deserved win. The defence was solid but we had more of a threat today (had little last few games). We still lack squad depth (you look at the subs today that came on and not sure any are going to hugely change games) particularly at the top of the field but the defence remains very good and against the poorer to average sides, it seems we have enough to sort of swat them away.
We have been poor on the road recently and not scored since Hull away which was 4 games ago so we need to offer more of a threat at Blackburn next week and start to be more of a threat away and not be so passive. Bristol City after means two away in a week and hopefully we can pick up some points before the next home game against you know who!
It has been a really difficult few weeks and George Baldock will never be forgotten – there is still the funeral to come of course which will be hard – but the club has at least now got this out of the way – don’t mind that in a disrespectful way but not sure many players, officials and fans were looking forward to it. Today they put in a good performance, scored two goals (fitting to honour the number two) and won the game well.
Ratings:
Cooper 6.5/10 – Did not have a great deal to do – indeed first half not sure he had a save to make at all? His kicking and distribution and the way he commanded the box was excellent and he looks so composed. This continued second half but he saw one fly past his post and then was guilty of one poor pass that saw them come through but redeemed himself to beat the ball away. Just looks a very composed and unflappable goalkeeper whose handling and general play is solid.
Gilchrist 6/10 - First half he was very good as he did the defensive bits but got forward really well and had so many crosses or moments where he was deep in the Stoke territory. He put a few dangerous balls across and then his shot was diverted in by Moore. Second half he was not the same and gave it away or dithered too much and his distribution was nowhere near the same and he looked tired once again – eventually being taken off. His inability to last full game is a bit of a worry.
Burrows 6/10 – Some good bits mixed with some touches where it came off him or he misplaced things. Put in some good crosses and one to Moore was begging to be converted. He did get into some good positions but second half thought he took too many touches although again put another good ball in that led to a chance.
Ahmedhodzic 7.5/10 – Continued his excellent season. He looks very assured on the ball and calm throughout. Stepped in and came away with the ball on a number of occasions as our two centre backs completely bossed the Stoke forwards throughout. He was a real asset again as he came out with the ball and drove into the Stoke half. He has formed an excellent partnership with Souza – the only blow today was when they broke after we lost the ball and he got booked -putting him out for Blackburn away.
Souttar 8/10 – Imperious again. Just was too strong and skilled for the Stoke forwards. He came out with the ball almost every challenge and was first to it, often coming in front of his man to steal the ball and set us on the attack. Just strolled through the game and was not really troubled much at all. Looks a class act at this level.
Souza 8.5/10 – Man of the match. Superb performance and bossed the game from start to finish. Seemed to be everywhere with his tracking back, tackling and covering matched by his clever use of the ball where he basically set us on the way from the back. Had two excellent long-range efforts and was unlucky not to score. Was superb from minute one and only loses 0.5 more for a daft booking – did another soon after and I was worried it was going to be another ban – just after he has come back! Loses half a mark for that. He looked streets ahead of the Potters midfield who could not get the ball off him. His use of the ball was very positive though even outside of all the tackles and interceptions to deny them any kind of impetus. Looks a different played at this level.
Arblaster 7.5/10 – Thought he was very much back to his best and not that far behind Souza and Souttar in the ratings and challenging for man of the match. Was way off it at Leeds and Boro but today he showed his all-around game, using the ball well, coming out on the half turn and moving us forward and carrying the ball deep when he could too. His passing was intelligent and ensure we just completely dictated midfield. Always available too and a mature performance from our 20-year-old captain, on a difficult day.
Rak Sayki 6.5/10 – He did some good things with the ball and was a threat. A few runs were he carried it almost the entire opposition half and some lovely pieces of skills bamboozled his opponents a few times but the only thing I will say, is that the final product was not always there and sometimes overplayed the tricks and not get a cross/shot away. He did though set up the second half as he came inside and played in Campbell.
O’Hare 5/10 – Thought it was another largely disappointing performance where he did work hard and try and get into areas but too often there was little of any kind of forward run, pass leading to a chance or goal threat. He buzzed around and as I say think he did put effort in but is not affecting the games much at the moment. Too far off Moore but then not near enough to link with other midfielders. I think overall he has been a bit of a disappointment so far with little impact on most games since an encouraging start in pre-season and the opening games. Think he needs a spell out of the side.
Campbell 5.5/10 – I thought outside of his goal, he was poor sadly. Not really in the game. At least him being up front meant we had another player for us to hit and Moore to link with. He never really had much of the ball and seemed off the pace and quite slow to react to stuff. I was thinking he might come off if he did not improve or get more involved as the second half started and then he scored. Decent turn and got it on target, even if the keeper might have saved it – he saved much more difficult ones! Despite the goal, not sure he will be more than a bit part player as he lacks pace and mobility to me – I used to think he was quick and would get in behind but seems another back to the goal type of player? Still will have enjoyed scoring versus his former club! I get people will say 5.5 is harsh when he scored but have to mark the whole game but goals are of course important!
Moore 7/10 – He missed a few decent chances – with two headers he should have done better, particularly the second one but he worked hard, was a threat and despite getting a bit of a battering, he kept coming back for more (excuse the pun). Had a few other half chances and was at least involved and in the box a fair bit today. The goal he did well to divert it home and did seem to be a genuine reaction to steer it home.
Subs -
Brewster 4/10 – Thought he was leggy and slow when he came on and never really got in the game. Saw even less of him than we did Campbell. Also committed a poor tackle when he left his feet. I keep hoping for a performance or him being a goal threat but not sure we are ever going to see it. Only 6 months or so to go and he will almost certainly depart the Lane. In an ideal world, if we had better striking options, he’d be sent out on loan but sadly he is one of the players we are having to play despite his complete lack of confidence and goal threat.
McCallum 5/10 – Came on and went to left back. Seemed to stand off too much and bounced off him a few times but a few bits of link/passes. Stoke had run out of ideas by this stage so was not troubled much.
Shackleton 5/10 – Thought Gilchrist has dropped off so the right move but not sure he was that involved save for one shot that was saved after the Brooks effort was blocked -right at the end.
Brooks 5/10 – Had the ball a fair bit but played it safe and came back which I suppose as we were seeing the game out was ok but thought he could have ran at his man a few times but never really happened. Rak Sayki carried it forward more and looked more of a threat. Had one shot blocked when he took too long again, just before full time
Peck – Only played right at the death – as he came on for Moore.
Manager: Wilder 7.5/10 – Another hard day with all the emotion and the last few weeks must have been so difficult for the club and he is the manager and the one people will look to for unity and to support many of the players/staff. As he said, we will not really know how tough it could have been. We looked flat and without energy or attacking intent in the last few games, admittedly against better teams but I also think his formations and approach was too passive and we were more concerned with the opposition. Today, albeit against a poor side, we won and did a professional job. We could have won by more but the result was never in doubt. He brought in Campell who scored and his subs were right in terms of timing and who came on/off. I thought we played higher up the field and we were patient and calm with the ball and just tired them out as Stoke had very little meaningful possession of the ball. We just cruised to an easy win in the end and it was good to see Wilder at the end gather all the staff around to show the togetherness of the group. His respect has extended to wearing a suit the last few games but expect him back in the tracksuit the next game.
Stoke – Seem to have move between managers and plans almost every season going between young manager, experienced managers and now have gone down a different route with a young continental manager. Narcis Pelach has been interim manager at Huddersfield and also coached at Norwich. Fairly young which seems to be the new trend now. 18th in the league and won 3, drew 3 and lost 5; they have stuttered but was odd they started the season with Schumacher but then they decided to change it quite quickly. Always annoys me that as why would you not do it in the summer but clearly Jonathan Walters the new director of football’s philosophy was not aligned with the manager who was sacked.
They seem to be another one of about a dozen sides they seem a long way off being around the promotion mix but also seem like due to there being some poor teams will do enough to stay away from trouble – although last season they only just got out of it and I might be inclined to worry about them even more after what I saw today. I glanced at the squad and it lacks real quality and experience and despite Cannon coming in (who was linked with us) you wonder where the goals may come from (although they did get 6 in a recent game of course).
I looked at the side today and was not overly concerned about the opponents. A few decent players but I was not concerned about the pace/power that our most recent opposition had shown. So, it proved in the end, as we were too strong, powerful, and skilled and in the end they never really got in the game and were well beaten. They had one shot just wide after it dropped when the challenge came in on Anel but this was 2-0, as was the chance when Cooper messed up. Outside of this, they never really hurt us, got behind us and I felt looked a soft touch that were weak in all aspects of their game. They did not press or show much energy and let us move it around without getting close enough but also lost first and second balls. On the ball they were careless and not positive enough and were not able to get men into the final third. It was an extremely timid showing (could say a bit like us the last two away games) and they could not argue at the end. The keeper flapped at a few but made 3 or 4 good saves and on another day, they could have lost by more.
At the end, they went to their fans and they led them know what they thought of a really poor and limited showing. Gave them a really hard time with V’s and W signs being held aloft as the players trooped off. They sold out seemingly too which made it even more galling for those that travelled. It looked like they had no belief they could get anything at all. On that evidence, they may be looking over their shoulders and have only won 1 in 7 under the new boss and he might start to feel the heat but surely they cannot keep changing managers?
Opponent Man of the Match – Bae Jun-Ho was very good when he came on and dropped into little areas and at least made them get up the field and tried something positive. They had very little outside of this and Johansson was probably their best player with the saves he made.
Opponent Weak link – Take your pick. Cannon was never in it and hooked but he had no service – probably regretting not coming here – if that was an option of course? Burger who was another linked with us got dominated by Blaster and Souza and not sure anyone else really impressed. Gibson made a few errors so might just take it- slipped on the goal. Enda struggled and his touch was off and looked slow. It was quite sad to watch – he was done with us at this level 2 years ago – so not sure why Stoke retained him. He is probably a level or two below now. Ended up at centre back where he might be better as Rak Sayki was too quick for him. He was an amazing player for us and such a great touch for him to lay the wreath and he clapped all four sides of the Lane after shaking hands with many of his former players and staff.
Referee/Officials –Ben Tomer. Not someone I have heard of? Indeed, do not believe he has ever refereed us before. Wilder said the bookings were soft and you kind of agree but then I am not sure it is his fault? He must ref it how he is told in terms of applying the rules. The Anel, Gibson and Souza ones are pulling men back but then I would say Anel then got tugged and the player escaped a yellow – which is frustrating in terms of the lack of consistency. The two bookings for both players booting the ball away, for either side, is again a bit pathetic but is a new directive and I suppose at least this was more consistent. In terms of the rest of the game, it was not a difficult game to officiate with not many bad tackles or tricky calls to make. I do think the assistants missed so many blatant foul throws (ball thrown so far forward of the head) for both teams but then we had enough stoppages and he maybe should have stopped these impromptu time outs the managers started to put in, when players were down.
Crowd – Such a tricky day really. Just glad we paid tribute and got the win for George. It felt different with all the posters given out, the big floral/shirt tributes in the car park and the fan park having the guy that has been singing his own version of the song. Inside the ground, the normal team line up introductions were done early so the players/coaches could then pay their respects. I heard some criticism of a few songs from Stoke fans, but these were outside the ground or on the concourse – I do not think it was meant with intent and maybe did not realise when it was being done (maybe they should have?) and the visiting fans inside the ground were respectful. Gary Sinclair was struggling to get his words out showing what a likeable and popular guy Baldock was. As the giant flag moved round the Kop, and his picture was displayed on the screen, it was hard not to be choked up. We had another salute on 2 minutes and also as the game ended and the huddle and display of the shirt were lovely touches. I think the moments that really got me was Enda putting the floral wreath near the right back area in their half and then the same with us and the players all huddled together right where he used to spend so much of his time on the field. The significance of where they stood and laid the wreath really was a lovely but sort of made it hit home even more. United handled themselves so well and thanks to the Stoke players and officials too for being part of this.
The game saw things a bit quieter than normal but that is understandable but at least we had some goals and as the game finished, we could remember George once more. The next game at the Lane will be a different kind of atmosphere of course but that will be on Remembrance Sunday too, so again will be mixed emotions in a sense.
Manager Wilder rotated his side again with Burrows, Souza (back from suspension) and Campbell into the starting eleven. Gus Hamer was out after picking up his fifth booking in the midweek game at the Riverside. Youngsters Luke Faxon and Ryan One were on the bench with former Stoke men Adam Davies and Rhys Norrington Davies out with injuries. Stoke began with former Blade Enda Stevens getting a rare start.
Prior to kick off, there was a moving series of tributes to United’s former Star Man with his song being played as the teams came out, a giant flag carried around the Kop and a minute’s applause. Former United hero Stevens laid a wreath around the right back area in the visitor’s half, whereas at the other end, United did likewise and huddled as one as a team in the area where Baldock plied his trade so successfully.
The game started slowly and on 2 minutes, another lust rendition of the David Bowie song engulfed the Bramall Lane terraces before United started to get on top. Souza was swarming round the ball and both full backs were high up the field with United pushing Stoke back. United won a free kick after Arblaster was tripped and after Burrows free kick was blocked, the ball fell to Gilchrist who hit a long range shot that MOORE managed to skilfully divert into the corner. It was his first goal for some time and gave United the vital lead.
Souza then had an effort saved from range by Johansson, O’Hare had an effort blocked and then Hamer had two headed efforts that he might have done better with; the second an excellent ball from Burrows. United were well in control and with Rak Sayki causing problems, jinking away from two men before being crowded out, Stoke were struggling to get out. Arblaster was back to his best, after two quiet games and Souttar was winning everything and getting to the ball first. It was a very one-sided game so far.
A series of stoppages for injuries for Stoke players threatened to disrupt the rhythm for the home side as Pelach tried to use these mini time outs to broker a response but his side struggled to create anything of note. A trio of bookings with Ahmedhodzic, Gibson and then Campbell – for kicking the ball away – ended the half but United were good value for their lead.
The second half saw Stoke make an immediate change as Bae Jun-Ho came on for the disappointing Cannon and the South Korean showed a few neat touches to get the visitors up the field. Souza took Manhoef out for a cheap booking but soon after United got their second goal. It came as Gibson slipped and Rak Sayki took advantage, driving forward before feeding CAMPBELL who swivelled and hit his shot goalwards. Johannson got a hand on it, but could not keep it out and the former Stoke man shushed his former fans – silencing them after their previous boos directed towards him in the first half.
Stoke did have a chance as the ball dropped in the box and Phillips lashed the ball narrowly wide with Ahmedhodzic claiming a foul in the build-up. United went back on the attack and the superb Souza not only chased back twice to make interceptions, but then had another searing drive that Johansson had to help over.
Campbell and Rak Sayki came off for Brewster and Brooks on 64 minutes with Bocat replacing Gibson for the Staffordshire side. Stoke finally forced Cooper into a save. Ironically it came from the normally rock-solid keeper, hitting an errant pass out and led to Stoke coming through and Koumas’ effort had to be pushed behind as he recovered his mistake. Arblaster then went on a mazy run down the left before having to have treatment after he got caught when crossing the ball.
Burger had another effort well over just before he was withdrawn with Seko taking his place. Moore nearly got in again from Burrows before McCallum and Shackleton replaced O’Hare and Gilchrist. The Blades were cruising and some lovely one touch stuff saw Arblaster and Souza move the ball around and United just were playing keep ball frustrating a beleaguered Stoke side.
Vidigal replaced Tchamadeu for Stoke but they lacked any kind of belief by this stage and were well beaten before the time had elapsed. The final chance for either side came when Brooks was played in and cut inside but his shot was blocked and then Shackleton’s effort was pushed round the post as it headed for the top corner.
As the game moved into 5 minutes stoppage time, Peck came on for Moore and Souttar and Ahmedhodzic stepped in again to see off any chance of a late consolation. Fittingly the Geore Baldock song was sang all around the ground again in the final moments of the game before the referee ended proceedings. Wilder gather all the players and staff together to talk to them before the team moved toward the Kop and held up a number 2 shirt with Baldock’s name upon it, in a final tribute to their popular former teammate.
United – A professional and commanding performance where we looked strong at the back again but got back to our best in midfield and Souza and Arblaster ran the game. We missed some chances and their keeper made some good saves but after it went 2-0; the result was never in doubt. Stoke tried to respond but lacked the belief and in the end we had more chances than them and could have won by more. The game sort of petered out and that was fine. Critics may say we could and should have taken it from 2 to 3 and 3 to 4 but we were not really threatened and in the end just moved it about sensibly and killed the game effectively with solid game management.
We started a little slow but the emotion of all the pre game stuff and further chants on the 2nd minute would have course had an impact on the players and fans. However, we quickly got on top and pushed them back and created some half chances before we scored. Rak Sayki was a threat and Souza was superb pouncing on every loose ball. He ran the game with Arblaster a good ally in the midfield. Behind these two Ahmedhodzic and the commanding Soutter were never really tested and Cooper only really had one save to make – caused by his mistake. We had other decent chances or shots that Johannson had to save with two superb ones from Souza’s efforts. He pushed another few away and Moore missed a few other good opportunities with his head.
I thought off the ball we were quicker, pressed better and played higher up the field and made sure they turned the ball over cheaply. We seized on all the loose stuff and won the aerial and physical battles too. We seemed to dominate possession and move it around and made them really tire. At times when we got forward we took too long or made the wrong decisions but did get in some good areas and got more men into the box today too. I thought we had most, if not all, of the games outstanding individual performances and in the end the last half an hour (although a few chances both ways) passed off rather incident free as we just coasted to the win.
Good to get a reaction, after two defeats and we got what we needed – a solid performance and a deserved win. The defence was solid but we had more of a threat today (had little last few games). We still lack squad depth (you look at the subs today that came on and not sure any are going to hugely change games) particularly at the top of the field but the defence remains very good and against the poorer to average sides, it seems we have enough to sort of swat them away.
We have been poor on the road recently and not scored since Hull away which was 4 games ago so we need to offer more of a threat at Blackburn next week and start to be more of a threat away and not be so passive. Bristol City after means two away in a week and hopefully we can pick up some points before the next home game against you know who!
It has been a really difficult few weeks and George Baldock will never be forgotten – there is still the funeral to come of course which will be hard – but the club has at least now got this out of the way – don’t mind that in a disrespectful way but not sure many players, officials and fans were looking forward to it. Today they put in a good performance, scored two goals (fitting to honour the number two) and won the game well.
Ratings:
Cooper 6.5/10 – Did not have a great deal to do – indeed first half not sure he had a save to make at all? His kicking and distribution and the way he commanded the box was excellent and he looks so composed. This continued second half but he saw one fly past his post and then was guilty of one poor pass that saw them come through but redeemed himself to beat the ball away. Just looks a very composed and unflappable goalkeeper whose handling and general play is solid.
Gilchrist 6/10 - First half he was very good as he did the defensive bits but got forward really well and had so many crosses or moments where he was deep in the Stoke territory. He put a few dangerous balls across and then his shot was diverted in by Moore. Second half he was not the same and gave it away or dithered too much and his distribution was nowhere near the same and he looked tired once again – eventually being taken off. His inability to last full game is a bit of a worry.
Burrows 6/10 – Some good bits mixed with some touches where it came off him or he misplaced things. Put in some good crosses and one to Moore was begging to be converted. He did get into some good positions but second half thought he took too many touches although again put another good ball in that led to a chance.
Ahmedhodzic 7.5/10 – Continued his excellent season. He looks very assured on the ball and calm throughout. Stepped in and came away with the ball on a number of occasions as our two centre backs completely bossed the Stoke forwards throughout. He was a real asset again as he came out with the ball and drove into the Stoke half. He has formed an excellent partnership with Souza – the only blow today was when they broke after we lost the ball and he got booked -putting him out for Blackburn away.
Souttar 8/10 – Imperious again. Just was too strong and skilled for the Stoke forwards. He came out with the ball almost every challenge and was first to it, often coming in front of his man to steal the ball and set us on the attack. Just strolled through the game and was not really troubled much at all. Looks a class act at this level.
Souza 8.5/10 – Man of the match. Superb performance and bossed the game from start to finish. Seemed to be everywhere with his tracking back, tackling and covering matched by his clever use of the ball where he basically set us on the way from the back. Had two excellent long-range efforts and was unlucky not to score. Was superb from minute one and only loses 0.5 more for a daft booking – did another soon after and I was worried it was going to be another ban – just after he has come back! Loses half a mark for that. He looked streets ahead of the Potters midfield who could not get the ball off him. His use of the ball was very positive though even outside of all the tackles and interceptions to deny them any kind of impetus. Looks a different played at this level.
Arblaster 7.5/10 – Thought he was very much back to his best and not that far behind Souza and Souttar in the ratings and challenging for man of the match. Was way off it at Leeds and Boro but today he showed his all-around game, using the ball well, coming out on the half turn and moving us forward and carrying the ball deep when he could too. His passing was intelligent and ensure we just completely dictated midfield. Always available too and a mature performance from our 20-year-old captain, on a difficult day.
Rak Sayki 6.5/10 – He did some good things with the ball and was a threat. A few runs were he carried it almost the entire opposition half and some lovely pieces of skills bamboozled his opponents a few times but the only thing I will say, is that the final product was not always there and sometimes overplayed the tricks and not get a cross/shot away. He did though set up the second half as he came inside and played in Campbell.
O’Hare 5/10 – Thought it was another largely disappointing performance where he did work hard and try and get into areas but too often there was little of any kind of forward run, pass leading to a chance or goal threat. He buzzed around and as I say think he did put effort in but is not affecting the games much at the moment. Too far off Moore but then not near enough to link with other midfielders. I think overall he has been a bit of a disappointment so far with little impact on most games since an encouraging start in pre-season and the opening games. Think he needs a spell out of the side.
Campbell 5.5/10 – I thought outside of his goal, he was poor sadly. Not really in the game. At least him being up front meant we had another player for us to hit and Moore to link with. He never really had much of the ball and seemed off the pace and quite slow to react to stuff. I was thinking he might come off if he did not improve or get more involved as the second half started and then he scored. Decent turn and got it on target, even if the keeper might have saved it – he saved much more difficult ones! Despite the goal, not sure he will be more than a bit part player as he lacks pace and mobility to me – I used to think he was quick and would get in behind but seems another back to the goal type of player? Still will have enjoyed scoring versus his former club! I get people will say 5.5 is harsh when he scored but have to mark the whole game but goals are of course important!
Moore 7/10 – He missed a few decent chances – with two headers he should have done better, particularly the second one but he worked hard, was a threat and despite getting a bit of a battering, he kept coming back for more (excuse the pun). Had a few other half chances and was at least involved and in the box a fair bit today. The goal he did well to divert it home and did seem to be a genuine reaction to steer it home.
Subs -
Brewster 4/10 – Thought he was leggy and slow when he came on and never really got in the game. Saw even less of him than we did Campbell. Also committed a poor tackle when he left his feet. I keep hoping for a performance or him being a goal threat but not sure we are ever going to see it. Only 6 months or so to go and he will almost certainly depart the Lane. In an ideal world, if we had better striking options, he’d be sent out on loan but sadly he is one of the players we are having to play despite his complete lack of confidence and goal threat.
McCallum 5/10 – Came on and went to left back. Seemed to stand off too much and bounced off him a few times but a few bits of link/passes. Stoke had run out of ideas by this stage so was not troubled much.
Shackleton 5/10 – Thought Gilchrist has dropped off so the right move but not sure he was that involved save for one shot that was saved after the Brooks effort was blocked -right at the end.
Brooks 5/10 – Had the ball a fair bit but played it safe and came back which I suppose as we were seeing the game out was ok but thought he could have ran at his man a few times but never really happened. Rak Sayki carried it forward more and looked more of a threat. Had one shot blocked when he took too long again, just before full time
Peck – Only played right at the death – as he came on for Moore.
Manager: Wilder 7.5/10 – Another hard day with all the emotion and the last few weeks must have been so difficult for the club and he is the manager and the one people will look to for unity and to support many of the players/staff. As he said, we will not really know how tough it could have been. We looked flat and without energy or attacking intent in the last few games, admittedly against better teams but I also think his formations and approach was too passive and we were more concerned with the opposition. Today, albeit against a poor side, we won and did a professional job. We could have won by more but the result was never in doubt. He brought in Campell who scored and his subs were right in terms of timing and who came on/off. I thought we played higher up the field and we were patient and calm with the ball and just tired them out as Stoke had very little meaningful possession of the ball. We just cruised to an easy win in the end and it was good to see Wilder at the end gather all the staff around to show the togetherness of the group. His respect has extended to wearing a suit the last few games but expect him back in the tracksuit the next game.
Stoke – Seem to have move between managers and plans almost every season going between young manager, experienced managers and now have gone down a different route with a young continental manager. Narcis Pelach has been interim manager at Huddersfield and also coached at Norwich. Fairly young which seems to be the new trend now. 18th in the league and won 3, drew 3 and lost 5; they have stuttered but was odd they started the season with Schumacher but then they decided to change it quite quickly. Always annoys me that as why would you not do it in the summer but clearly Jonathan Walters the new director of football’s philosophy was not aligned with the manager who was sacked.
They seem to be another one of about a dozen sides they seem a long way off being around the promotion mix but also seem like due to there being some poor teams will do enough to stay away from trouble – although last season they only just got out of it and I might be inclined to worry about them even more after what I saw today. I glanced at the squad and it lacks real quality and experience and despite Cannon coming in (who was linked with us) you wonder where the goals may come from (although they did get 6 in a recent game of course).
I looked at the side today and was not overly concerned about the opponents. A few decent players but I was not concerned about the pace/power that our most recent opposition had shown. So, it proved in the end, as we were too strong, powerful, and skilled and in the end they never really got in the game and were well beaten. They had one shot just wide after it dropped when the challenge came in on Anel but this was 2-0, as was the chance when Cooper messed up. Outside of this, they never really hurt us, got behind us and I felt looked a soft touch that were weak in all aspects of their game. They did not press or show much energy and let us move it around without getting close enough but also lost first and second balls. On the ball they were careless and not positive enough and were not able to get men into the final third. It was an extremely timid showing (could say a bit like us the last two away games) and they could not argue at the end. The keeper flapped at a few but made 3 or 4 good saves and on another day, they could have lost by more.
At the end, they went to their fans and they led them know what they thought of a really poor and limited showing. Gave them a really hard time with V’s and W signs being held aloft as the players trooped off. They sold out seemingly too which made it even more galling for those that travelled. It looked like they had no belief they could get anything at all. On that evidence, they may be looking over their shoulders and have only won 1 in 7 under the new boss and he might start to feel the heat but surely they cannot keep changing managers?
Opponent Man of the Match – Bae Jun-Ho was very good when he came on and dropped into little areas and at least made them get up the field and tried something positive. They had very little outside of this and Johansson was probably their best player with the saves he made.
Opponent Weak link – Take your pick. Cannon was never in it and hooked but he had no service – probably regretting not coming here – if that was an option of course? Burger who was another linked with us got dominated by Blaster and Souza and not sure anyone else really impressed. Gibson made a few errors so might just take it- slipped on the goal. Enda struggled and his touch was off and looked slow. It was quite sad to watch – he was done with us at this level 2 years ago – so not sure why Stoke retained him. He is probably a level or two below now. Ended up at centre back where he might be better as Rak Sayki was too quick for him. He was an amazing player for us and such a great touch for him to lay the wreath and he clapped all four sides of the Lane after shaking hands with many of his former players and staff.
Referee/Officials –Ben Tomer. Not someone I have heard of? Indeed, do not believe he has ever refereed us before. Wilder said the bookings were soft and you kind of agree but then I am not sure it is his fault? He must ref it how he is told in terms of applying the rules. The Anel, Gibson and Souza ones are pulling men back but then I would say Anel then got tugged and the player escaped a yellow – which is frustrating in terms of the lack of consistency. The two bookings for both players booting the ball away, for either side, is again a bit pathetic but is a new directive and I suppose at least this was more consistent. In terms of the rest of the game, it was not a difficult game to officiate with not many bad tackles or tricky calls to make. I do think the assistants missed so many blatant foul throws (ball thrown so far forward of the head) for both teams but then we had enough stoppages and he maybe should have stopped these impromptu time outs the managers started to put in, when players were down.
Crowd – Such a tricky day really. Just glad we paid tribute and got the win for George. It felt different with all the posters given out, the big floral/shirt tributes in the car park and the fan park having the guy that has been singing his own version of the song. Inside the ground, the normal team line up introductions were done early so the players/coaches could then pay their respects. I heard some criticism of a few songs from Stoke fans, but these were outside the ground or on the concourse – I do not think it was meant with intent and maybe did not realise when it was being done (maybe they should have?) and the visiting fans inside the ground were respectful. Gary Sinclair was struggling to get his words out showing what a likeable and popular guy Baldock was. As the giant flag moved round the Kop, and his picture was displayed on the screen, it was hard not to be choked up. We had another salute on 2 minutes and also as the game ended and the huddle and display of the shirt were lovely touches. I think the moments that really got me was Enda putting the floral wreath near the right back area in their half and then the same with us and the players all huddled together right where he used to spend so much of his time on the field. The significance of where they stood and laid the wreath really was a lovely but sort of made it hit home even more. United handled themselves so well and thanks to the Stoke players and officials too for being part of this.
The game saw things a bit quieter than normal but that is understandable but at least we had some goals and as the game finished, we could remember George once more. The next game at the Lane will be a different kind of atmosphere of course but that will be on Remembrance Sunday too, so again will be mixed emotions in a sense.
