Bristol City v Nottingham Forest Match Day 1

[JoeAman08]

14 minutes ago, Esmond Million's Bung said:

Well I can think of quite a few worse performances and boy there is a lot to choose from.

Bit moot because I don’t think he is a starter long term anyway but not sure I have ever seen him so annonymous. I have seen plenty where he gets on the ball and gives it away but not one where he had so few touches. For Pato to be effective he needs to be on the ball and today, playing centrally, barely touched it. 

[BobBobSuperBob]

3 minutes ago, TonyTonyTony said:

I liked Pack dropping back to form the threeand you are right - Korey should have been used further up. It’s clearly something they have worked on and I want to see more. If the full backs push up to support the midfield it might work well

Energy levels were dropping to be fair on a hot day. Weimann ran and ran. Some good bits, some bad bits

ill take a draw all day long 

It is the way a lot of sides who want to pass out do it and is seen as ‘the way to do it ‘ and in Pack we have , IMHO a ideal type of player to do that exact role, brave and relaxed on the ball , good passing range

Why I was so bemused when Korey took over that role - not as relaxed on ball or as good a passer

What Korey gives you Is Game reading and energy , a terrier and ironically we broke a couple of times late on and Marlon found himself in a good position but just didn’t have the legs or burst of pace to exploit them whereas Korey with his energy and little bursts could have

A strange one 

[joe jordans teeth]

1 minute ago, JamesBCFC said:

In that case highlight where I said I know better than anyone else.

Funny enough i can’t be arsed to scroll through your posts because I’m not a kid,get back to work and give us all a break from your whining nonsense 

[Esmond Million's Bung]

3 minutes ago, JoeAman08 said:

Bit moot because I don’t think he is a starter long term anyway but not sure I have ever seen him so annonymous. I have seen plenty where he gets on the ball and gives it away but not one where he had so few touches. For Pato to be effective he needs to be on the ball and today, playing centrally, barely touched it. 

Again your comments amaze me because, I cannot think of another person who believes he is better out wide and not a starter long term really?, I cannot recall him being dropped much at all last season and I fully expect him to start at Bolton next week, that is what happened for most of last season, I don't see it changing this season.

Also playing him wide?, at least Eliasson (who has improved) and COD are some help defensively, Paterson is a liability.

[Smokey]

46 minutes ago, BobBobSuperBob said:

Liked the Centre Halves splitting and Pack dropping in between to receive the ball

 

 

I liked that, thought it might work better with a 3 man centre mid instead of 2?

[joe jordans teeth]

1 minute ago, JamesBCFC said:

Funny enough I never said it, so you wouldnt be able to highlight it.

Hence "you read what you wanted to".

As for the last bit.

1. I'm between shifts, so not working at the moment.

2. I'm being crushed by the sheer amount of irony.

1.i know that because I read your posts and your working later hence I said get back to work

2.Sarcasm is not your friend 

[BobBobSuperBob]

7 minutes ago, Esmond Million's Bung said:

Again your comments amaze me because, I cannot think of another person who believes he is better out wide and not a starter long term really?, I cannot recall him being dropped much at all last season and I fully expect him to start at Bolton next week, that is what happened for most of last season, I don't see it changing this season.

Also playing him wide?, at least Eliasson (who has improved) and COD are some help defensively, Paterson is a liability.

If it helps EMB I think  his place is looking in danger

COD has shown last season his qualities , and his immediate inclusion after injury today shows LJs thoughts on him :, Elliasson was excellent first half and against Bour;enough and IMHO looks a much better player than he did last season

And I can’t see Diedhiou or Weimann missing out to Patterson

Thats ignoring any impact Watkins or Adelukan may have 

Think he needs to up his game / contribution as I’m not sure where he starts when Famara is back

 

Edited August 4, 2018 by BobBobSuperBob

[Esmond Million's Bung]

50 minutes ago, BobBobSuperBob said:

Liked the Centre Halves splitting and Pack dropping in between to receive the ball

Not sure when Korey came on why he was then designated that role 

Pack is better at it and Koreys energy would have been far more useful higher

 

Surely Pack's passing is why he should be the more forward player, Smith made 3 timely tackles one was brilliant when they were attacking in our box, Smith is far better at that IMO.

 

[IAmNick]

Hard to decide what's more annoying, a few people having a moan after a game, or the same few suspects every bloody thread then endlessly moaning about the moaners. Pretty sure at this point those posts outweigh the actual doom and gloom merchants quite heavily at this point.

And now I'm moaning about the people moaning about the moaners. 

[Esmond Million's Bung]

1 minute ago, BobBobSuperBob said:

If it helps EMB I think  his place is looking in danger

COD has shown last season his qualities , Elliasson was excellent first half and looks a much better player than he did last season

And I can’t see Diedhiou or Weimann missing out to Patterson

Thats ignoring any impact Watkins or Adelukan may have 

Think he needs to up his game / contribution as I’m not sure where he starts when Famara is back

 

I thought that last season mate but LJ found a way of shoehorning him in, but as ever I live in hope.

[frenchred]

That point may keep us up at the end of the season

[Esmond Million's Bung]

2 minutes ago, frenchred said:

That point may keep us up at the end of the season

Post of the day.

[pongo88]

1 hour ago, bristolcitysweden said:

I hate asking myself why do you care 

This sounds like a Tommy Cooper joke:

“I went to the doctor the other day,
I said 'it hurts when I do that'
he said ' well don't do it' “

If you hate asking yourself questions, don’t do it! 

[BobBobSuperBob]

9 minutes ago, Esmond Million's Bung said:

Surely Pack's passing is why he should be the more forward player, Smith made 3 timely tackles one was brilliant when they were attacking in our box, Smith is far better at that IMO.

 

Understand what you’re getting at EMB   and that’s the dilemna

We want IMHO , Pack getting the ball and being the conductor and Smiths energy pressing high

But it would also be ideal to have Pack passing balls around their box and Korey as a defensive safety net when we get broken in as , if the defence are in the ***** , as you rightly point out it’s normally Smith that bales us out

If we are going to play out then Pack (IMHO) needs to be in close contact with keeper / Centre Halves at that point 

That’s the dilemna

Of course a Great passer who tackles like a terrier and has lots of energy , covers ground ,and has real bite would be good, !!!!!!!

and cost a lot of money !!

Welcome to the Club  Mr Smith-Pack

or perhaps we could clone them and have two pairs of them !!

 

 

 

 

Edited August 4, 2018 by BobBobSuperBob

[Guest BS13Red]

Based on that performance I’d take the £3million Derby offered for Joe Bryan and run. Horrendously average championship left back, “one of our own” when it suits him.

[Nibor]

Random thoughts:

Reasonable first game.  Nothing to write home about, nothing to worry about either.

Probably watching two teams who will trouble neither end of the table.

Eliasson has come on a bit - fantastic crossing, needs to work on winning throws/corners and getting stuck in.

Bryan looked below his usual standards at left back - should be playing left midfield if we're going 4 at the back.

We missed Diedhiou or some muscle up front.

Smith has to start.  He's the leader.

None of the signings looked out of place, maybe we had a summer where we didn't drop a bollock.

Webster looked a ball player, Weimann worked hard as expected but shouldn't play up top on his own and Mäenpää looked fine.

Hunt was a bit nervy and needs to settle a bit.

Baker had a poor game and the back four overall need time to become a unit.

Not sure why Taylor came on ahead of Eisa.

Unless Watkins is it we still need a real playmaker in midfield as a matter of priority.

It was hot.

 

[Robbored]

City played well for first 15mins but that was as good as it got.  Having taken the lead they seemed to ease up and allowed Forest to re-establishe themselves in the game. I thought Pato was particularly poor and was delighted to se him replaced.

Second half wasn't any better but the gaping hole in City's midfield became more apparent and explains why nothing of any quality was created. Maybe LJ has a strategy of playing two banks of four with the full backs tucked it allowing the opposition the ball out wide. City certainly defended very narrowly today.

But.......a draw was about right imv.

[BCFCGav]

Pleased with that, their net spend is 23 odd million, we’re in profit, and we’ve taken a good point off them. Webster and Maenpaa both great, especially the latter. Weimann scored and stayed busy. Satisfying opening day, COYR. 

[Esmond Million's Bung]

1 minute ago, JamesBCFC said:

RE first bit.

Yep, crossed wires on my part, sorry.

I think I'm used to disagreeing with you 

RE second bit (the Paterson part)

It's a conundrum. I do think you are a bit harsh on him, but the general point you make is absolutely true with his dramatic drop off in form post illness.

I think, even while in this poor form he has had spells where he still creates chances, but he goes missing much more often.

He has had consistancy issues throughout his career, but at his age that shouldnt be the case any more. At the moment he wouldnt be in my first choice 11, but with Diedhiou out for another 5 games it is a tougher decision.

Not really I thought Taylor did more when he came on and some players were tiring at that time. Adelkalum can play there, Eisa could probably play there, at a push COD or Eliasson can play there.

On another point I was also slightly disappointed with twice during the game Paterson in the first half and Brownhill in the 2nd both got into good scoring positions on the edge of the box and both attempted to caress the ball in instead of lacing it, also I believe that Bryan was entitled to expect a striker following up on his 2nd half strike that their keeper pushed back into the danger area.

[Esmond Million's Bung]

9 minutes ago, BobBobSuperBob said:

Understand what you’re getting at EMB   and that’s the dilemna

We want IMHO , Pack getting the ball and being the conductor and Smiths energy pressing high

But it would also be ideal to have Pack passing balls around their box and Korey as a defensive safety net when we get broken in as , if the defence are in the ***** , as you rightly point out it’s normally Smith that bales us out

If we are going to play out then Pack (IMHO) needs to be in close contact with keeper / Centre Halves at that point 

That’s the dilemna

Of course a Great passer who tackles like a terrier and has lots of energy , covers ground ,and has real bite would be good, !!!!!!!

and cost a lot of money !!

Welcome to the Club  Mr Smith-Pack

or perhaps we could clone them and have two pairs of them !!

 

 

 

 

We do not possess a player who can unlock defences, in fact we run out of ideas in and around the opponents box and not even Pack can do that but he is the best that we have got and better than nothing or until LJ sees the light, Smith is not a player who is going to excel with assists but will excel in bailing us out.

[shelts]

Solid today. Lacking any real creativity and spark . 

[BobBobSuperBob]

8 minutes ago, Esmond Million's Bung said:

We do not possess a player who can unlock defences, in fact we run out of ideas in and around the opponents box and not even Pack can do that but he is the best that we have got and better than nothing or until LJ sees the light, Smith is not a player who is going to excel with assists but will excel in bailing us out.

Problem is we need what both offer (Unless we spend serious ££££ on upgrading at least one of them)

Add Josh to the mix as it gets confusing

More energy and pace than Marlon but not the same passing range , and not the  the terrier legs and defensive fire fighting Korey gives us

Good quick feet and a mix of Korey and Marlon in some ways without excelling above them on their individual strengths 

I would like Korey as my sitting Midfielder but, as I’ve said I think Marlon needs to be the pivot between the centre halves if we are  pursuing the playing out ethos which we clearly are

 

A good mix in the combination of the 3 ?

Our performances (at times) don’t back that up

And none of them get enough goals

 

Combine the theee and you’ve got a top midfielder

Edited August 4, 2018 by BobBobSuperBob

[cidered abroad]

Very average start to the season. Can we improve on that? 

Hope so otherwise......... 

[downendcity]

44 minutes ago, frenchred said:

That point may keep us up at the top of the table come the end of season

Corrected for blind optimism 

 

[Major Isewater]

48 minutes ago, frenchred said:

That point may keep us up at the end of the season

I think it will take 50 .

[Major Isewater]

28 minutes ago, shelts said:

Solid today. Lacking any real creativity and spark . 

Nail on head Shelts . I'm hoping it's just the opening day and the heat .

 

[downendcity]

40 minutes ago, Nibor said:

Random thoughts:

Reasonable first game.  Nothing to write home about, nothing to worry about either.

Probably watching two teams who will trouble neither end of the table.

Eliasson has come on a bit - fantastic crossing, needs to work on winning throws/corners and getting stuck in.

Bryan looked below his usual standards at left back - should be playing left midfield if we're going 4 at the back.

We missed Diedhiou or some muscle up front.

Smith has to start.  He's the leader.

None of the signings looked out of place, maybe we had a summer where we didn't drop a bollock.

Webster looked a ball player, Weimann worked hard as expected but shouldn't play up top on his own and Mäenpää looked fine.

Hunt was a bit nervy and needs to settle a bit.

Baker had a poor game and the back four overall need time to become a unit.

Not sure why Taylor came on ahead of Eisa.

Unless Watkins is it we still need a real playmaker in midfield as a matter of priority.

It was hot.

 

The one thing on which everyone can agree - although we haven't heard from core321 yet!

 

[JoeAman08]

57 minutes ago, Esmond Million's Bung said:

Again your comments amaze me because, I cannot think of another person who believes he is better out wide and not a starter long term really?, I cannot recall him being dropped much at all last season and I fully expect him to start at Bolton next week, that is what happened for most of last season, I don't see it changing this season.

Also playing him wide?, at least Eliasson (who has improved) and COD are some help defensively, Paterson is a liability.

Just mean when everyone is fit and not suspended think he will be a bench player. Eliasson, Watkins, Diedhiou, Adelakun, Weimann, Taylor, COD and Eisa all players that can take minutes from Pato going forward. 

Can’t argue with @BobBobSuperBob about Pato being a player that acts like he is working hard. Don’t think he is lazy but not the natural workrate of others we have which is why I have suggested he is perhaps a better option against the likes of Bolton and Rotherham who will defend deeper. 

The central wide thing we just won’t agree on. I know he had good spells centrally last season but think a large part of that was playing with Bobby Reid who covered so much ground. Think it made it easier for Pato not being the main creative threat.  Not sure he can get to those levels paired with others in this side. 

[BobBobSuperBob]

3 minutes ago, JoeAman08 said:

Just mean when everyone is fit and not suspended think he will be a bench player. Eliasson, Watkins, Diedhiou, Adelakun, Weimann, Taylor, COD and Eisa all players that can take minutes from Pato going forward. 

Can’t argue with @BobBobSuperBob about Pato being a player that acts like he is working hard. Don’t think he is lazy but not the natural workrate of others we have which is why I have suggested he is perhaps a better option against the likes of Bolton and Rotherham who will defend deeper. 

The central wide thing we just won’t agree on. I know he had good spells centrally last season but think a large part of that was playing with Bobby Reid who covered so much ground. Think it made it easier for Pato not being the main creative threat.  Not sure he can get to those levels paired with others in this side. 

Said that as we were watching today and discussing him

At Home against a side where we are dominant and have lots of possession , in theory he’s ideal and should be just what we need - one of our few keys to unlock the door

When games turn against us he always seems to dissapear , and in some ways that’s when we need him most , to get on the ball , weave some magic for us and turn the game / momentum round

Frustrating

[Esmond Million's Bung]

41 minutes ago, JamesBCFC said:

I'll keep an eye out for those things when the game is up on BCTV.

Taylor could well take Patersons spot during these 5 games, and if he was the better performing today then him starting the next wouldn't be objectionable.

I like the idea of COD and Eliasson wide and Brownhill in the middle, so reluctant to put one of them more central.

Forgot about Adelakun because he's not been mentioned much, is he fit?

I do think Eisa and Weimann could be a good partnership, though on paper Diedhiou (when back) and Weimann, or Diedhiou and Eisa would be my first pick longer term.

Just read this from LJ out for 10 to 14 weeks after an ankle op.

https://www.bristolpost.co.uk/sport/football/transfer-news/lee-johnson-confirms-injury-blow-1862579

[shelts]

9 minutes ago, Major Isewater said:

Nail on head Shelts . I'm hoping it's just the opening day and the heat .

 

Not panicking Major as u z early doors , new personnel and humid conditions. 

[Offside]

I was quite underwhelmed by our performance today. We didn't really pose much of an attacking threat or impose ourselves on them. Up front we missed a physical presence and didn't seem to be able to play the ball into space for our players to run on to. At the back we were OK but defended too narrow at times, leaving our wingers exposed (like with the cross for their goal). 

Forest looked the better side and were comfortable on the ball, but they seemed toothless in attack.

Overall a draw was probably a fair result.

[SecretSam]

1 hour ago, Super said:

The forest number 5 is some player bossed the midfield.

Agreed, he's a class act.  Happy to take a point, we looked a work in progress with some rusty legs. Not sure about 442, we looked better when Smith came on and we moved to 433. Some loose passes and sloppy mistakes, but some flashes of real quality. Mid-table.

[AshtonG666]

I was not infused when Hunt signed but I think he looked good on the ball today and Webster also looked tidy 

[Septic Peg]

Late to the party but a huge congrats to @havanatopia and Mrs Hav.

Wish you both the very best. 

Remember, she's always right.

[AshtonG666]

6 minutes ago, Offside said:

I was quite underwhelmed by our performance today. We didn't really pose much of an attacking threat or impose ourselves on them. Up front we missed a physical presence and didn't seem to be able to play the ball into space for our players to run on to. At the back we were OK but defended too narrow at times, leaving our wingers exposed (like with the cross for their goal). 

Forest looked the better side and were comfortable on the ball, but they seemed toothless in attack.

Overall a draw was probably a fair result.

I don’t think Forest were the better team for the first 30mins but got into the game in the second half and looked decent

Lets not forget they have spent 25m, have a decent manager, the weather was really hot and the lads can’t be upto speed 100% yet, that along with the fact we still have 2 to 3 first team regulars to come back into the team, I think overall it was a decent and fair result as much as i’d Like to have seen City win 

[SecretSam]

I forgot to mention the weather, we went at them crazy batshit at the start, and paid for it later on. A decent point.

[Leveller]

5 minutes ago, AshtonG666 said:

I was not infused when Hunt signed but I think he looked good on the ball today and Webster also looked tidy 

Really?  I thought Webster often looked nervous and panicky. And would Forest have scored their goal with Flint there? Probably not.

As for our creativity, we fielded two potentially strong wingers, started well and scored a goal after getting a corner from creating an overload on the left. After that, we seemed not to get the ball to them enough - particularly ODowda. I didn’t think he was poor, but that he didn’t get given the ball in any potentially good situations.

To me, with Eliasson and O’ Dowda there, we need to ensure the full backs combine properly with them. They have the ability to penetrate well if they can get some space out wide. I don’t think we’ll do it through the middle so often.

[Redstreet]

Dreadful today . Pack Brownill and Pack all a shadow of their former selves . We will do well to stay up. Forest equally underwhelming . No attack threat from BCFC . 

[Natchfever]

7 minutes ago, Leveller said:

Really?  I thought Webster often looked nervous and panicky. And would Forest have scored their goal with Flint there? Probably not.

As for our creativity, we fielded two potentially strong wingers, started well and scored a goal after getting a corner from creating an overload on the left. After that, we seemed not to get the ball to them enough - particularly ODowda. I didn’t think he was poor, but that he didn’t get given the ball in any potentially good situations.

To me, with Eliasson and O’ Dowda there, we need to ensure the full backs combine properly with them. They have the ability to penetrate well if they can get some space out wide. I don’t think we’ll do it through the middle so often.

In didnt see it today but I really think ODowda could kick on this season if he stays fit and we play wide.  What was the verdict ?

 

[AshtonG666]

9 minutes ago, Redstreet said:

Dreadful today . Pack Brownill and Pack all a shadow of their former selves . We will do well to stay up. Forest equally underwhelming . No attack threat from BCFC . 

All that after the first game of the season :laugh: 

[AshtonG666]

20 minutes ago, Leveller said:

Really?  I thought Webster often looked nervous and panicky. And would Forest have scored their goal with Flint there? Probably not.

As for our creativity, we fielded two potentially strong wingers, started well and scored a goal after getting a corner from creating an overload on the left. After that, we seemed not to get the ball to them enough - particularly ODowda. I didn’t think he was poor, but that he didn’t get given the ball in any potentially good situations.

To me, with Eliasson and O’ Dowda there, we need to ensure the full backs combine properly with them. They have the ability to penetrate well if they can get some space out wide. I don’t think we’ll do it through the middle so often.

I didn’t think Webster was bad, maybe he was nervous on his home debut, but I think he looks a half decent signing but I liked Hunt and as much as I rate Bryan and don’t want him to leave, he tried to be too clever with the ball once or twice today rather than keeping it simple and effective 

Edited August 4, 2018 by AshtonG666

[TonyTonyTony]

1 hour ago, BS13Red said:

Based on that performance I’d take the £3million Derby offered for Joe Bryan and run. Horrendously average championship left back, “one of our own” when it suits him.

Horrendously average ? You are having a laugh mate

classic JB today. Some good moments - he is a player but too many daft mistakes

hopefully he will settle if he stays and gets his head down

Re Pato : he looks like he needs more bulk to me. Skinny as **** and cant challenge physically. Josh would also benefit from a bit extra bulk

[Leveller]

2 minutes ago, AshtonG666 said:

I didn’t think Webster was bad, maybe he was nervous on his home debut, but I think he looks a half decent signing but I liked Hunt and as much as I rate Bryan and don’t want him to leave, he tried to be too clever with the ball once or twice today rather than keeping it simple and effective 

On the other hand Joe created a scoring chance and forced a save, which few did.

[BobBobSuperBob]

17 minutes ago, JonDolman said:

I am pretty positive after todays performance. Definitely can do better. But just disappointed with Baker's defending on the goal. Don't know why he is so far off Murphy when the cross comes in. If he was a bit closer then he would have been able to get a proper nudge on him to stop him having a clean head on it. I wonder if Wright comes in when he is fit for Baker. LJ seems to like Wright. 

But but but

we conceded goals last season because of Flint Jon

Didnt you hear

No way Murphy scores if Flint is marking him not Baker

Watched Baker closely today and doesn’t convince me at all not sure what his ‘strengths’ are

Id have Flint over two Nathan Bakers

Awkward on ball gets done in air costing us goals here and there last season and today

Thought Webster was ok and would liked to have had Webster and Flinf together out of Webster , Flint , Wright , Baker

Edited August 4, 2018 by BobBobSuperBob

[TonyTonyTony]

19 minutes ago, Redstreet said:

Dreadful today . Pack Brownill and Pack all a shadow of their former selves . We will do well to stay up. Forest equally underwhelming . No attack threat from BCFC . 

I didn’t know Stevie Wonder followed city

[AshtonG666]

7 minutes ago, Leveller said:

On the other hand Joe created a scoring chance and forced a save, which few did.

Let’s just all be grateful we are not Rotherham fans after their opening day result or we would have real things to moan about 

Edited August 4, 2018 by AshtonG666

[stortfordred]

Just got back and so haven’t read whole thread but can’t agree with Redstreet and the doom merchants. Agreed we struggled second half at times but it was extremely hot. In my view, Webster looks the real deal if you want someone who doesn’t just hoof it. Tactical change quite interesting and the set pieces have been Southgated!! We were busy in midfield but playing two wingers was a bit optimistic. Bryan off the pace but otherwise we were ok. 

[J D]

That's a good point for us I reckon. Have to bare in mind that's against a team that's truely splashed the cash this summer and have a squad that are very capable of going up automatically. Defensively we were very good today, apart from Murphy's goal we did really well to prevent them to moslty pot shots from distance. Despite the fact we are really going to miss Diedhiou up front for the next 5 games we weren't completely toothless, as we did create a few chances. We were very good at playing out from the back in the first-half but they found us out a bit in the second-half and really put the pressure on, though from the 46th minute onwards we stood firm defensively.

 

[AshtonG666]

9 minutes ago, stortfordred said:

Just got back and so haven’t read whole thread but can’t agree with Redstreet and the doom merchants. Agreed we struggled second half at times but it was extremely hot. In my view, Webster looks the real deal if you want someone who doesn’t just hoof it. Tactical change quite interesting and the set pieces have been Southgated!! We were busy in midfield but playing two wingers was a bit optimistic. Bryan off the pace but otherwise we were ok. 

Similar to how I saw it today 

[Unan]

26 minutes ago, BobBobSuperBob said:

But but but

we conceded goals last season because of Flint Jon

Didnt you hear

No way Murphy scores if Flint is marking him not Baker

Watched Baker closely today and doesn’t convince me at all not sure what his ‘strengths’ are

Id have Flint over two Nathan Bakers

Awkward on ball gets done in air costing us goals here and there last season and today

Thought Webster was ok and would liked to have had Webster and Flinf together out of Webster , Flint , Wright , Baker

Did you see Millwalls second goal today?

[Wrongagain]

Only thing wrong today was the lack of a target man up front, new guys nervous at times and sporadic effort from the attacking midfield, pretty good in defence -  confident they will gel and get better -an enjoyable first game

[downendcity]

9 minutes ago, J D said:

That's a good point for us I reckon. Have to bare in mind that's against a team that's truely splashed the cash this summer and have a squad that are very capable of going up automatically. Defensively we were very good today, apart from Murphy's goal we did really well to prevent them to moslty pot shots from distance. Despite the fact we are really going to miss Diedhiou up front for the next 5 games we weren't completely toothless, as we did create a few chances. We were very good at playing out from the back in the first-half but they found us out a bit in the second-half and really put the pressure on, though from the 46th minute onwards we stood firm defensively.

 

Come on JD,  you can do better than that.

There's nowhere near enough negativity and critical comment in your post, which is pretty poor for the opening day of the season. No only that, but you then made things even worse by including the "Forest spent loads in the summer" excuse.

I know you cannot win anything in November, but you can be relegated after the first game of the season, so come on, pull your socks up and get your act together when you post in future! 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

8 minutes ago, Unan said:

Did you see Millwalls second goal today?

Ah, but that's different!

[downendcity]

34 minutes ago, TonyTonyTony said:

I didn’t know Stevie Wonder followed city

Followed us - he's played a few games for us I reckon!

[BobBobSuperBob]

22 minutes ago, Unan said:

Did you see Millwalls second goal today?

Yes

How about highlighting where Flints defending has cost us a goal over say last 2 seasons 

Then compare with Baker

[Mr Popodopolous]

Thought a draw was about right, started well enough but hard to maintain in the heat with that tempo. In a 4-4-2 especially.

Happy with a point, Baker should have done better with the goal though.

[Cowshed]

3 hours ago, Esmond Million's Bung said:

Surely Pack's passing is why he should be the more forward player, Smith made 3 timely tackles one was brilliant when they were attacking in our box, Smith is far better at that IMO.

 

If you want a player to drop in and receive, retain, release and repeat,  when the CB's split and full backs push up the receiving central midfield player has to be assured and composed on the a ball that player in City's squad is Pack.

[Fontaineofallknowledge]

I thought we did well to get a point today as I fully expect forest to be promoted on that evidence! If we played them in say jan and they were top (which they could be), people would be very pleased with the point.  

Obvously lacked a presence up front and our midfield was dominated but the new signings looked like upgrades and there were lots of positives.

another exciting season to look forward to

[Lrrr]

Just watched the highlights, for their goal the defensive line is all in line, perhaps fraction too deep seeing as Baker couldn't get to Murphy to stop the header, collective responsibility amongst defence for the line. Other thing I picked up is Murphy is free in the box but Pack is stood a few yards in front of him not marking anyone just in front of the defensive line, really he should have been told to pick up Murphy.

[CitySSeven]

Funny how I thought O'Dowda was one of our poorest players. He hasn't played too much of pre season so I'll let him off, but he seemed a bit one dimensional didn't show skill on the ball and didn't have his head up. He did one good run though. Hope he gets fit soon. 

[pillred]

well for what it's worth for all those that were disappointed that we only drew and were expecting more, I spoke to four forest fans after the game at length and I can tell you now they were very happy to be going back to Nottingham with a point and all said we had a hell of a team and would be surprised if they had a harder game all season, in short other people can see maybe what our own supporters cant that despite many changes we are a team that can do well this season. 

[pillred]

3 hours ago, Septic Peg said:

Late to the party but a huge congrats to @havanatopia and Mrs Hav.

Wish you both the very best. 

Remember, she's always right.

welcome back peg have a nice break?

[pillred]

3 hours ago, Leveller said:

Really?  I thought Webster often looked nervous and panicky. And would Forest have scored their goal with Flint there? Probably not.

As for our creativity, we fielded two potentially strong wingers, started well and scored a goal after getting a corner from creating an overload on the left. After that, we seemed not to get the ball to them enough - particularly ODowda. I didn’t think he was poor, but that he didn’t get given the ball in any potentially good situations.

To me, with Eliasson and O’ Dowda there, we need to ensure the full backs combine properly with them. They have the ability to penetrate well if they can get some space out wide. I don’t think we’ll do it through the middle so often.

apparently flint had a mare today and was directly responsible for one of millwalls goals, maybe time to let it go, he was good for us but he wasn't beyond making the odd mistake.

[REDOXO]

3 hours ago, TonyTonyTony said:

I didn’t know Stevie Wonder followed city

SW his entire family all of his extended family friends and all his mates at the blind school!.. 

[pillred]

3 hours ago, Redstreet said:

Dreadful today . Pack Brownill and Pack all a shadow of their former selves . We will do well to stay up. Forest equally underwhelming . No attack threat from BCFC . 

really? do well to stay up, sorry but we have just played a team who I think will be up there at the end of the season and the fans of forest that I spoke to were very happy to have left the gate with a point, I will take a wild guess and say your under 25, if you think that was dreadful you should have seen some of what I have had to put up with in the 1980s and beyond, if that's the worse you ever see lucky you.

[Mr Popodopolous]

5 minutes ago, pillred said:

really? do well to stay up, sorry but we have just played a team who I think will be up there at the end of the season and the fans of forest that I spoke to were very happy to have left the gate with a point, I will take a wild guess and say your under 25, if you think that was dreadful you should have seen some of what I have had to put up with in the 1980s and beyond, if that's the worse you ever see lucky you.

Plus in more modern times...year after year when it looked like we wouldn't get out of League One- that time spannd from Pulis to end of Tinnion's reign. Horrible slog that League was, without about 50 away fans a lot of the time or so it felt like. Yes we had the playoffs under Wilson but it felt like a long and futile period...

Set against that or your (before my time) 80's near bankruptcy etc today was nowhere near. I could pick out a load of games worse than today. A load between 1998-now.

[nickolas]

12 hours ago, BS13Red said:

Based on that performance I’d take the £3million Derby offered for Joe Bryan and run. Horrendously average championship left back, “one of our own” when it suits him.

This. 

He didnt look interested at all. 

Although ive seen him play versus Darikwa many times in the past and has never had the beating of him. I said before the game he wouldnt even try to take him on and i was right. 

Cheerio Joe.......?! 

[Alex_BCFC]

Fair point in the end I think. I don’t think it was terrible but clearly not great either - some of the over reactions just mental on here. Forest will be around the playoffs I think and us in a similar position to last season. 

Started off well and almost 2 up before they improved. They could have gone 2–1 up with a sustained spell of pressure after they scored. But either side could have won it in last ten with chances. 

New keeper looked ok and made one good save. Hunt looks weak defensively and they targeted him a lot - a potential concern. Webster ok - a little bit over confident at times. Weimann - nice goal but I didn’t think too great otherwise. Eliasson looked bright and will set up a few goals this season. 

We badly missed Fammy up to and Paterson carried on last seasons form sadly. I’m no Taylor fan but he’s a better option than Pato right now.

O’Dowda looks unfit and we need Korey in there - should be first choice. 

Overall we continue to lack consistency - a good ten mins here and there won’t take us to the top 6. Plenty to work on but certainly nothing to worry about...yet.

[willy bedlock]

Thought we looked like the away team at times, lucky point me thinks

[BTRFTG]

Playing Forest before they'd chance to gel and taking a point were positives, as were a few performances of note. We were ultimately undone by a series of basic truths that one could cut and paste from any of my comments last season (particular last half) or from those few brave souls hereabouts who  resist the BS3 mentally of everything having to be rose-tinted at risk one is called a traitor.

First up to ask the question (again) why does WeeLee set up to defend so narrow? Yesterday, like last season, at times the back 4 were within the width of the 6 yard box. Note to WeeLee, it may limit the direct 'run-through' but doesn't really stop the 'cut-in' and gives savannah space for quality ball into the box (see their goal.) Countering with a more combative and mobile midfield is a far better option.

Secondly, playing out from the back is fantastic but only if you've access to creative, mobile midfielders. Pack's our only creative and despite another decent performance yesterday he showed even more how limiting his first 5 yards of pace are at Championship standard. His never say die attitude and the way in which he works to recover the ball is exemplar such we notice the recovery but often neglect it was he who failed to get to the ball in the first place. We can't simply rely on Pack to dictate how well we'll do.  We knock it around, take increasingly dangerous levels of risk in doing so only to knock the thing long. Time to stick or bust methinks. If the objective is to play through to feet and pace then it ain't working. If not we need a lump upfront able to stay on the pitch longer than The Gas remain competitive each season.

Thirdly, WeeLee's pre and post match press conferences always include reference to what they been working on in training - the 'inches'. So here's a free hint boss - practice the basics like being able to trap the ball or running with it inches, not yards, from one's foot. Stamp out the superfluous 'trickery', particularly when it's in dangerous positions on the park. The number of reckless and unenforced errors yesterday was worrying and we'll get punished big-time if they're not eliminated.

Of the performances: I loved the apparent change in attitude from Eliasson who at last looked positive and as though he has the training pitch talent we've heard of but never seen. Webster did just fine at Centre Back and the keeper, in truth, didn't have much to do. I see others are rating his improved distribution but I could have rolled and knocked the short balls he did yesterday. Hunt - like the attitude but he had several shaky touches and I'm not keen on his gung-ho approach in getting so far forward without support. Every time he lost possession we were very exposed to the break. Yesterday he got up frequently and with gusto (good) but was somewhat slower on the return journey (bad.) He needs to learn to pick and choose his moments. Bryan's few positive contributions came from when he was high up the pitch, not surprising given he's always been a defensive liability. Maybe I read too much into his body language but either his motivation was knowing he's out the door this week (if not for the hyped deal he and his agent had hoped,) else he's gone Basso, realised his golden chance has passed and is in a period of sulk. Either way play him high up or not at all. Weimann did OK first half with a very well taken goal, let's hope it doesn't prove to be a 'quarter' given his historic, annual tally. 

And that leaves the annual who's going to be the Ashton Gate whipping boy (for we always like one?) Good news is this term it's self-selecting, though was strongly hinted at last year. Some say Patterson can't help his body language and that it's not symptomatic of his attitude or ability. They're wrong. From his slouched shoulders, obsession with looking at the turf, pointing at everybody other than himself and wanting the ball less than Dracula wants daylight, he's an utter waste of space. His sole talent is his spatial ability to hide in plain site. The way he tucks himself between the opposition, creates the angles, such not even Messi in a City shirt could find him.  If Hide & Seek were a professional  sport he'd be World Champion. He ceded possession, uncontested, 6 or more times yesterday mostly in dangerous positions. That he did so being unable to control the ball is scandalous. WeeLee loves him but if he sticks with him much longer it'll end up with the boss paying the price.

So in that respect it's same old, same old. I doubt we'll be troubling the top of the table, I hope we won't trouble the bottom.