A different comparison

Afternoon everyone.

So that's what an away clean sheet feels like eh? The last time we managed an away clean sheet was vs Villa in the League Cup last year. Which also happens to be the last time Holden was involved in a first team match. Omens.

Lots of discussion about the team selection last night. I think there were 4 major changes, which affected us positively.

Firstly, Ricketts at centre back. I think his composure and experience helps Knight. Often when those two play at centre back together, they seem relatively solid and don't make many mistakes.

Vela in midfield. I don't know much about him as a player, only saw him a few times last season, but judging by yesterdays game, he came in a actually sat in midfield, which none of Spearing, Andrews or Mark Davies seem to be able to do. Having him and Holden both sitting in a five man midfield would be great to see.

Sordell, obviously this has been discussed to death and on the most part been a healthy debate about him or N'Gog or KD. All points are valid, I think Sordell deserves some credit for showing some strength of character and determination after all the stick he has been receiving.

But, the most important factor for me was Darren Pratley. He seems to work great in a five man midfield with 2 holding players. He is allowed to get about everywhere and is often the man breaking forward into the box to add another attacker. I think he got two assist yesterday. Technically he isn't great, but I think having him in that midfield just...works. Which leads me to wonder what will happen when Mark Davies returns from injury? Clearly Mavies is a better individual player, fantastic technical ability, great close control and has recently been adding a few goals to his game, but can he have the same affect as Pratley, getting into the box, closing players down and always offering another pass?

Would Bolton fans want Mavies to replace Pratley when he returns, or does 'The Pratt' deserve to keep his place?