Im not sure our current formation suits the team or even some of our players. 1 target man doesnt seem to be working. Accrington played a 3-5-2 formation in their 1-0 win there in November. Id much rather see 2 up front for us and would prefer this to be John Jules . and Gomes with a roaming brief. If we have Taylor back too we have a good chance of winning. Ill wait to see what the selection and formation is before predicting this time.

No Gomes or Taylor. So I reckon we may be toothless and ill go for a draw 1-1. Whiteman, John Jules.

I was disappointed that Taylor is not fit (I'm not sure we are getting the right info on him?). I still think we will bounce back with a 3-1 win with J-J scoring the first, or Sims if J-J does not start. If neither starts, it has to be Whiteman! Maybe I'll change some of this after seeing the starting team - if I get up early enough.
Sweat dreams to all Rovers Fans.

Yes I'll be sweating myself.

Sorry about the finger trouble - must have had too much wine. Seeing the team just now, I do not know what to think. Sad to see Smith on the bench, although he was far from his best on Wednesday. He and Sims have both shown class so far in some games. Anyway, I'll stay with my rather optimistic prediction.

Cobblers 1-2 Rovers
John-Jules to score⚽

2-1 to Rovers. Sims.

Half time and I almost decided that I might find something else to do. Anyone unfamiliar with the game might wonder what the objective was.

DM has lost the plot. If he ever had one

Although it was Northampton who were down to 10, it was Rovers who looked as though it was them. They seemed to seek out close encounters in order to demonstrate every possible way to lose the ball.

Playing out from the back has become an obsession, except that they don’t actually play OUT. Playing around at the back would better describe it. Executed ponderously, the sideways and backwards passing just allows the opposition to take up suitable covering positions. It is not a magic formula. It worked when Bursik sent the ball straight to the wingers from which play would develop at speed whereas the current method effectively transfers possession to defenders up the congested midfield.

Only John-Jules emerged with credit, but the style of play should not routinely require his level of flair. I could say that, if he listens too carefully to management’s instructions he’ll soon be in the same position as Sims and Smith, with the current game plan having gradually extinguished all his natural talent.

Northampton were a poor side. And so are we on this showing. A really miserable experience.

Playing players in positions they aren't used to or good at in a system that doesn't work! Is there really a cunning plan or is it just grasping at straws. Doesn't auger well.

Nookie and Donaldo - I agree with all your comments. 2-0 against a poor team with ten men for most of the game is a really poor performance. You are right about Sims and Smith as they have (or had?) noticeable class in a League One setting, and now seems to have lost their sparkle, or are not allowed to show it.
Don't get me going about the negative playing across the field at the back, and Donaldo, you hit the nail on the head with your comment about Bursik's often quick passes out to the wings that allowed us to attack quickly.
By the way, was it you I heard chanting "Miss, Miss" as Whiteman took the penalty so you protected your bonus points, Donaldo? If he had scored, would I have hoped they would score so I'd get bonus points???😎
I thought Butts had a fairly good game as he slotted in well alongside Anderson, and Wright was better at RB than before, but against lesser opposition of course.
I then watched West Ham vs, Man U, and talk about a tale of two halves for Man U. Absolutely dire in the first, but very talented in the second. Fernandez is a real star for them. They have now won all five away games after going behind, and only won only one at home. I hope they keep up the away form against Leipzig as they need a point to go through to the knockout stages.