Terrible first half performance - no energy - allowed Accrington to dictate the game and close us down quickly. Was that because we like to play out from the back and we played three different defenders (reducing the comfort and routine passing around at the back and through the thirds) and missed Bridcutt. As a result the midfield and strikers never really got into the flow first half. Better second half performance, especially once Tayo came on. Lucky to get a point.
Palmer - 5 - definitely below his usual level. Terrible mistake for their first and it’s been a long time since I’ve seen any keeper put so many balls straight into touch.
Poole - 6.5 - uneasy first half but settled better in the second and had some good moments. On his way to gelling
Montsma - 6 - average for him. Made some decent interceptions but looked a bit lost at times. Maybe because he has missed games his composure and confidence needs to rebuild.
Walsh - 7.5 - My MoM. Considering the pressure on the defence and having new partners around him (& missing Bridcutt) he was superb & held us together first half. Reads the game so well.
Bramall - 4.5 - not fit and familiar with the players or shape. No sign yet of his speed. Maybe MA could have picked a better first game for him, though he needs to get up to speed.
Grant - 7 - below par first half but lifted his game in the second. Definitely missed Bridcutt’s security and outlet behind him and having two new FBs limited his interplay, until Tayo came on.
Jones - 5.5 - tried hard and covered a lot of ground but just didn’t quite click for him.
McGrandles - 6.5 - worked hard but like others found himself up against it and lacked a bit of his usual composure, although played a great part in one of the goals.
Hopper - 7 - worked really hard to put pressure on the Accrington players and try to generate some momentum up front. Well taken gamble for the goal.
Johnson - 6.5 - struggled a bit with the conditions (though they were better than Hull) but laid on a great cross for Rogers’ goal.
Rogers - 6 - made a few decent runs but ran into blocks. Took his goal well. Growing into it like Johnson, needs better conditions and a bit more ‘gelling’ time. Didn’t help with unfamiliarity of Bramall behind him.
Edun - 7 - badly missed first half & you could see the difference immediately he came on with his understanding with the other players.
Scully - 6.5 - added a different dimension to the strike force.