I was just looking down all my bookmarks on t'interwebs and found a link to an old article I wrote on BBC 606, and was astounded at how relevant what I wrote in August 2010 is right now, over 3 years later.
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http://www.bbc.co.uk/dna/606/A72752015
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Here's what I wrote:- AUGUST 09, 2010
Having thoroughly enjoyed the win over Leeds on Saturday, I have to say that it was brilliant to see Derby attacking in waves of three players.
I was cautious that Derby might not transfer the positive play from friendlies into competitive league football, but I have to say the attacking performance was better against Leeds than against (Premier League) friendly opponents Stoke and Birmingham.
The quite barmy thing for me is that there is loads of room for improvement and if that was the 6th game in and the players were all sharp and match fit, the score could've been a lot more convincing.
In five games time, Commons hits the targets after a couple of minutes. In five games time, Green strokes the ball into the bottom corner instead of the keeper's throat. In five games time Barker slams the ball into the top of the net and not along the floor. In five games time, the advancing midfielders dont run beyond the path of the ball in the area!
I said before the game that it could be 5-0 to either side and anything in between, and I feel I wasnt too far wrong.
IN a few games time, Bailey and Cywka get more involved and Savage, Anderson and Leacock are more decisive. These improvements should come naturally with match fitness and sharpness.
In the debate recently about formations, I was quite convinced that the formation was largely irrelevent if the philosophy was negative.
As on opening day last season, I applaud everyone involved for the positive manner in which Derby performed, and I'm convinced that Derby will create a lot of luck IF they continue with a positive mindset.
I've been critical of Clough and the coaching last season, and I think that was justified, but make no mistake, I'd rather be complimentary to him and I'm probably more desperate for him to succeed as manager than any previous manager.
If anyone speaks to Clough, tell him to stay positive and play to win. If he reverts back to trying not to lose instead of trying to win, we'll revert back to being a poor side.
Well done Derby.
Up the Rams
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although the names of players have changed, little else has
How things (don't) change.
posted on 17/9/13
Peeder, didn't think my point would escape you, in the game I'm talking about, we played really good stuff (against a lot tougher opposition), and my concern was that I wanted Nigel Clough to remain positive.
posted on 17/9/13
I think Clough has always wanted to play the fast passing game but it is not having the players with the quality to pass the ball accurately which has prevented this being a success. Then we had Commons and Bueno and no one else. I remember we looked really good until the Burnley game when teams learned that kicking Commons or Bueno out the game meant Derby had no other tactic.
We now have some skill in midfield plus better options up front so we can play the type of game Clough wants. We also have some variety in attack so have a plan B. If only we had more quality and strength in depth for the back four.
posted on 17/9/13
Comment Deleted by Site Moderator
posted on 17/9/13
Mostyn - if I have one genuine concern about Nigel, it is that he does appear very "dour" at times. I do know that he's a very decent bloke but I cant see him being the life and soul of a party.
It probably doesnt take long for his glass to be half empty!
I agree that, irrespective of what players we have, a positive attitude is vital.
Self belief, cockiness, call it what you will but, unlike his Dad who obviously had it in spades, I don't see it often enough from Nigel.
Maybe it is there, but because of the way he was brought up he's never shown it publically?
Like you, I want to see us continue in a positive mindset, take the game to the oppo and, in the words of my Yankee friends, prove that offence is the best form of defence.
Like Spart, I happen to think we are better equiped to acheive that dream this season.
posted on 17/9/13
comment by Marco IL Fantastico (U14204151)
posted Aug 9, 2010
So let me get this straight Mostyn, is this you actually giving a tiny bit of credit to Nigel & his staff, and maybe even admiting they know better than you?
posted on 17/9/13
"Real fluidity and consistency of performance comes from knowing, instinctivly, where your team mate will be so that runners do not go to early, balls are played into their path without them needing to break stride and defenders cover each other etc
That only comes from playing together for a sustained period of time."
"Our starting 11 on Saturday contained 4 new signings and 2 players who were on loan at the end of last season. That we have managed to produce the level of football we have already this season with 50% of a new team has got to be positive."
How to contradict yourself and make no point whatsoever in one rambling monologue.
posted on 17/9/13
Who said that?
posted on 18/9/13
One thing doesn't change: Mostyn is always right, on reflection.
posted on 18/9/13
On how many more sites is Mostyn going to post this nonsense?
Attention whoring or what?
posted on 18/9/13
comment by WASSA BASEBALL GROUND REGULAR (U10849143)
posted Aug 9, 2010
Mostyn I know you rate Leacock, but I don't.
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