Stoke Match Thread

[saint_stevo]

Anyone know the line-up?

Only got the full squad on OS

[JHsaintsfan]

Saints: Bialkowski, James, Thomas, Perry (Captain), Surman, Schneiderlin, Gillett, Thomson, Lallana, Holmes, McGoldrick.

[saintfs]

have just been told that this line up for the first half is the starting line up for next sat minus killer who is having his leg rested. 2nd half will see a bit of a change.

[krissyboy31]

Delap in the Stoke side. Pericard on the bench.

[Andy_Porter]

have just been told that this line up for the first half is the starting line up for next sat minus killer who is having his leg rested. 2nd half will see a bit of a change.

Killer as captain I hope.

I doubt Jan is 100% sure though, I mean if Rasiak/Dyer/John etc come on and shine he would put them in for Saturday I reckon.

[Appy]

Killer as captain I hope.

I doubt Jan is 100% sure though, I mean if Rasiak/Dyer/John etc come on and shine he would put them in for Saturday I reckon.


I doubt it, John is suspended on saturday.

[sad saints fan]

1-0 stoke

[krissyboy31]

1-0 stoke

Kitson

[John B]

Saints: Bialkowski, James, Thomas, Perry (Captain), Surman, Schneiderlin, Gillett, Thomson, Lallana, Holmes, McGoldrick.

DAVIS in GOAL apparently

[S4INT]

Lol@usanddesructionofpre-seasonoptimism:(
(surely this one worded post doesn't count as one of my three :p)

[Appy]

FFS, We're going down :(.


;).

[saintkiptanui]

I hate that ginger pr*ck. As soon as I put money on saints the omens were not good.

[John B]

ffs, we're going down :(.


;).

why?

[OldNick]

I hate that ginger pr*ck. As soon as I put money on saints the omens were not good.hes a good player and if he stays fit will score 10+ this season.

[Appy]

why?


Because we won't get the 3 points tonight.

[saintkiptanui]

hes a good player and if he stays fit will score 10+ this season.
and?? is that supposed to excite me??

[Saint Charlie]

and?? is that supposed to excite me??

Well its good we won't have to face him twice against Reading!

[OldNick]

and?? is that supposed to excite me??no strap ons do.
Kitson is a good player that is all I was saying, dont get all precious.

[saintkiptanui]

Well its good we won't have to face him twice against Reading!
It's not good steve bumholeherpeslips Coppell will be coming to St mary's, the man has the charisma of a peanut.

[John B]

no strap ons do.
Kitson is a good player that is all I was saying, dont get all precious.

Kitson is not a good player he is a very good player

[OldNick]

Kitson is not a good player he is a very good playertrue, but not a great player

[saintkiptanui]

F*ckin hell is this some kind of ghey love in for ginger b*llox??

[OldNick]

F*ckin hell is this some kind of ghey love in for ginger b*llox??I dont know I havent looked.

[John B]

true, but not a great player


Exactly if he played for a top club I think he would be an international like dare I say it Beattie

[OldNick]

this is fun there are only 3 of us, its like Fratton Park on a matchday

[revolution saint]

Have we walked this league yet FFS.

[John B]

I was Not expecting to win tonight even before we went behind

[damers]

Any more?

[St Chalet]

this is fun there are only 3 of us, its like Fratton Park on a matchday

Have nothing to say but I make Four

[Cumbria Saint]

Cumbria Saint storms in to make it five.........

.......but uses up one of his 3 posts doing it.

Anyway I can't contribute much because I have no commentary so I'll just have to listen to your valuable updates and discussion!

[Roman]

this is fun there are only 3 of us, its like Fratton Park on a matchday

The rest of us are pretending to be at the game.

[revolution saint]

The rest of us are pretending to be at the game.

Let's start a mexican wave.

[krissyboy31]

I'm the left side over here!!

[Saints67]

1-1 McGoldrick (aka shovelfoot)

[krissyboy31]

OMG DM's equalised!!

[Appy]

I've heard the kingsland is alot louder than the rest of the stands tonight. Northam needs to sort it out.

[Andy_Porter]

McGoldrick \o/

[John B]

Let's start a mexican wave.

My Wife Thinks I am mad jumping up and down

Whats the score how are we playing

Its 1 1 McGoldrick

According to many posters McGoldrick is crap but he does score a lot of goals

[Rod Le Shearer]

when I read the names on our starting team-sheet,I dont excactly get filled with confidence by the thought of these players being (nearly all) our preferred starting 11..
I know they had a good game versus WHU.but still,half of our team consists of players I didnt see as more than league 1 material before this pre-season.

surprise me lads,crush Stoke now :D

[Andy_Porter]

Great news that one of our strikers will be going into the season with his confidence sky high.

A decent result against Cardiff and I think we could get off to a flyer.

[Appy]

We'll walk this league.

[OldNick]

Let's start a mexican wave. thats soooooo yesterday, we should do the moves to the birdy song

[Thedelldays]

thats soooooo yesterday, we should do the moves to the birdy song
or, 'pompey fan on a string'..?

[CHAPEL END CHARLIE]

May I add Saintsweb first ever WOOT !

[saint si]

My Wife Thinks I am mad jumping up and down

Yeah, this pre-season seems so ... *important* ! Like it somehow actually matters if we do well. Can't wait for the season proper... roll on the weekend! :)

[pedg]

half - time

[OldNick]

May I add Saintsweb first ever WOOT !bugg##, I hadnt thought of that.

[OldNick]

can I be the first to say something important is happening that might make us smile in the near future.A whole new team in the 2nd half.

[Appy]

can I be the first to say something important is happening that might make us smile in the near future.

What?

[Colinjb]

can I be the first to say something important is happening that might make us smile in the near future.

The second half?

[Ponty]

can I be the first to say something important is happening that might make us smile in the near future.

You forget the old maxim; You can please some of the people all of the time and all of the people some of the time but you can't please all of the people all of the time.

[John B]

You forget the old maxim; You can please some of the people all of the time and all of the people some of the time but you can't please all of the people all of the time.

Rupert Lowe Cant

[Colinjb]

You forget the old maxim; You can please some of the people all of the time and all of the people some of the time but you can't please all of the people all of the time.

Even if you gave them all spontaneous orgasm? Surely THAT would work!

[John B]

FFS, We're going down :(.


;).

Are you happier now it is 1 1 at half time

I once saw Wolves score an own goal by Saints Skipper Tony Knapp within the First Minute

2 2 after ten minutes

9 to Saints 3 to Wolves at the end so anything can happen

[Appy]

Are you happier now it is 1 1 at half time

Did everybody else detect my irony but you?

[1965onwards]

Saw that game John B

Amazing !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[John B]

Did everybody else detect my irony but you?

Sorry No I didnt

There has been so much negative stuff being posted I assummed you were doing the same

I apologise for my stupidity

[Danny R]

I did

[THEVMAN]

Apparently that side is coming of at half time ,they got a standing ovation.Man at ground said Lallana outstanding,kept everything ticking over.

[Colinjb]

From the sounds of it we are on fire! Regardless of result today bring on Cardiff, I can't wait!

[Barney Trubble]

I'm getting good vibes so far abou how the season might go. By most accounts, our performances have been quite good so far.

I know they're friendlies but I still feel good about it all.

[mcjwills]

SAINTS (2nd Half): Bialkowski; Hatch, Thomas, Racine, Mills; Dyer, White, Wotton (C), Wright-Phillips; John, Rasiak

Strange that Stoke Website had this 5 mins before our own.

[Under Weststand]

Apparently that side is coming of at half time ,they got a standing ovation.Man at ground said Lallana outstanding,kept everything ticking over.

Seems the Stoke Web site agree they have are 2nd half side as
Bialkowski; Hatch, Thomas, Racine, Mills; Dyer, White, Wotton (C), Wright-Phillips; John, Rasiak.

[pedg]

SAINTS (2nd Half): Bialkowski; Hatch, Thomas, Racine, Mills; Dyer, White, Wotton (C), Wright-Phillips; John, Rasiak

Strange that Stoke Website had this 5 mins before our own.

Obviously a change in plan as on the OS JP was saying about giving the 'first team' 60 minutes then swapping it round.

[Thedelldays]

not bothered from here on in what the score is...the "first teamers" had a good one so it seems..not let the fringe players like rasiak slog it out. lol

[OldNick]

its great to know the fans there are excited abouit the first half. Im annoyed my daughter wasnt back from Scotland in tiome to go.I don like going as Nick no mates.

[Ponty]

That's a pretty strong 2nd XI. What happened to our player crisis?

[OldNick]

Obviously a change in plan as on the OS JP was saying about giving the 'first team' 60 minutes then swapping it round.
It might be a good move as the team will be in good spirits, and why risk them losing that for another 15 minutes and also try and keep them a little fresh for Saturday

[Saint Martini]

Does anyone understand that line-up for the second half? Who's the second holding midfielder? White? I thought he was more of an attacking midfielder and which of Rasiak and John is playing striker and which one is playing "in the hole"?

[exit2]

this is fun there are only 3 of us, its like Fratton Park on a matchday



Im here. Its just that Im sat at the back of the itchen on my own

[John B]

That's a pretty strong 2nd XI. What happened to our player crisis?

Yes I was thinking the same and No Davies or Svennson

[Thedelldays]

Does anyone understand that line-up for the second half? Who's the second holding midfielder? White? I thought he was more of an attacking midfielder and which of Rasiak and John is playing striker and which one is playing "in the hole"?
he might be trying a different set up...as in a plan 'B'

[Saints67]

Any idea which players have gone to Woking and has there been any goals in that game?

[pedg]

Im here. Its just that Im sat at the back of the itchen on my own

What's your take on the first half then?

[Colinjb]

Does anyone understand that line-up for the second half? Who's the second holding midfielder? White? I thought he was more of an attacking midfielder and which of Rasiak and John is playing striker and which one is playing "in the hole"?

Holding Midfielder? Wooton I would say.

The comparison between the firs and second halves will be very telling.

[RoswellSaint]

can I be the first to say something important is happening that might make us smile in the near future.A whole new team in the 2nd half.

OK, Nick, explain, please. Not sure that a whole new team in the second half will make us smile - seems the first half team played pretty well. On the takeover thread you have said "all systems go, IMHO".

Connection? Conspiracy? :D

[Saints67]

Does anyone understand that line-up for the second half? Who's the second holding midfielder? White? I thought he was more of an attacking midfielder and which of Rasiak and John is playing striker and which one is playing "in the hole"?

Would seem like the OS are following OUR thread "As they lined up, Dyer played out wide on the right, Wright-Phillips on the left and Rasiak just ahead of Stern John."

[John B]

Holding Midfielder? Wooton I would say.

The comparison between the firs and second halves will be very telling.

Dyer Right

BWP Left

Rasiak up front with John behind

[Under Weststand]

Will certainly be interesting to see if Rasiak & John can play this system.

[Saint Martini]

So White and Wotton as the holdingmidfielders?

[Colinjb]

So White and Wotton as the holdingmidfielders?

One quick? One experienced? May work.

[Professor]

Disproves the theory that Rasiak and John can't be on the pitch together, but maybe this is about keeping people in the shop window. On the other hand, no Skacel and no Saga. What do we read into that? And has the money for Safri actually been paid?

[Saint Martini]

Both teams were limited to a variety of long-range efforts as the pace of the match slowed. Buxton then replaced Cort in the 63rd minute as Tony Pulis made his sixth switch of the evening.


Quelle surprise...

The senior pro's really need to step up a gear if they want to play on a regular basis this season.

[saint lard]

can I be the first to say something important is happening that might make us smile in the near future.A whole new team in the 2nd half.

On and off the pitch?;)

[OldNick]

On and off the pitch?;)WOW that is very deep.

[Bakovnetski]

Disproves the theory that Rasiak and John can't be on the pitch together, but maybe this is about keeping people in the shop window. On the other hand, no Skacel and no Saga. What do we read into that? And has the money for Safri actually been paid?


No problem about them being on the same pitch. They just can't find eachother with a decent pass.

[SaintDonkey]

Probably a very good thing that DM has got on the scoresheet again - nothing like a striker on a run of goals with a bit of confidence. Could be the difference this season.

[buctootim]

No problem about them being on the same pitch. They just can't find eachother with a decent pass.

......or score any goals or keep the pace of the game up. Apart from that they seem to be having a stormer.

[JHsaintsfan]

1-2 to Stoke - Pericard
2-2 - John
(according to Stoke's website)

[Joesaint]

2 all

[magie]

Im here. Its just that Im sat at the back of the itchen on my own


Kingsland is the only stand open.

[Hacienda]

Quelle surprise...

The senior pro's really need to step up a gear if they want to play on a regular basis this season.

From what I've seen in two pre-season games the pace of thought and movement was too much for some of them.

[Third Division South Days]

Disproves the theory that Rasiak and John can't be on the pitch together, but maybe this is about keeping people in the shop window. On the other hand, no Skacel and no Saga. What do we read into that? And has the money for Safri actually been paid?

No JE either.

[Saints67]

1-2 to Stoke - Pericard
2-2 - John
(according to Stoke's website)

Pericard scores a screamer apparently. When he was with us he looked like he couldn't have scored in a brothel.

[Saint Martini]

Good to see us come back from behind twice. At least the players don't let their heads hang when they concede.

[Le Goddard]

so basically our first team faired up very well indeed yet again against a premiership side...

I predict a very good season

[eurosaint]

That's 4 goals already in 4 days against Premiership opposition !
The future is bright, the future is red and white !

[Iowsaintsfan]

Coyr - woot!

[AwaySaint1]

Quelle surprise...

The senior pro's really need to step up a gear if they want to play on a regular basis this season.

With Lowe back in the hot seat I assume that he is going to dangle the win bonus system again,about time some of the older members earned the cheque.

[Saint Martini]

That's 4 goals already in 4 days against Premiership opposition !
The future is bright, the future is red and white !

Do you mean scored or conceded? ;)

[Saints67]

2-3 Hatch og

[pele]

I just have no idea how we are going to play this season!!! Will we get stuffed or has JP found the right mixture of good young uns and old uns to take us far. Pre-season results aren't everything but we have been playing well. Sorry to see Saga go although he has never been the same since he was playing for his contract and scoring fantastic hat tricks against Wolves!!!

[camdijk]

Hatch scores (into his own net!!!!!)

[Under Weststand]

Own Goal from Hatch makes it 2-3 Stoke

[Thedelldays]

im not too worried how the second half turned/turns out...the first half was the more important thing for saturday....I would love to hear what THAT was like by those who went..

[Saint Martini]

WOOT!

I predicted 3-3, only one more goal and we're there.

[Saint Charlie]

The result hardly matters, its the performance that counts. Hopefully reports from those at the game will be a good read!

[Le Goddard]

its all about the first half imo add svensson and davies to that and we wouldnt have conceeded. We are going to powerwalk this league.

[Nexstar]

I saw hatch and cheered, they should put own goal in bold ffs!

[S4INT]

We'll moonwalk this league with TotalFootball(TM) if Skacel has signed yet and the Northam picks the noise level up.

[eurosaint]

Do you mean scored or conceded? ;)

oth but anyway we are 3-2 down so now we have conceded 5 !

[Saint Martini]

I saw hatch and cheered, they should put own goal in bold ffs!


I was confused after the John goal. I didn't understand why John was in bold since it said almost scored.

[sad saints fan]

is it just me or has the OS crashed

[Nexstar]

3-2 final score.

Stoke site said they continued their 'impressive' pre-season run. Beating a championship side by a narrow margin is hardly impressive.

[magie]

is it just me or has the OS crashed

OS has crashed. Rupes has puled the plug!!!!

[SaintDonkey]

is it just me or has the OS crashed

Typical - the forum upgrades so it doesn't always crash mid match, and then the OS crashes instead :)

[Ponty]

What they need is a better server

[buctootim]

They should get a super new server and charge everybody £5 to write their own match review.

[Saint Martini]

Will we have to play 5 quid soon to get match updates on the Saints website? :rolleyes:

[Saint Martini]

FFS buctootim, the 5 quid joke was mine.:(

[Under Weststand]

is it just me or has the OS crashed

No its not just you definitely crashed. Shame an own goal lost it for us will be interesting to hear from those that went about first half. Also defence will be a lot stronger with Svensson & Davies in, Lest hope they can stay fit.

[Andy_Porter]

No its not just you definitely crashed. Shame an own goal lost it for us will be interesting to hear from those that went about first half. Also defence will be a lot stronger with Svensson & Davies in, Lest hope they can stay fit.

Lets pray they stay fit, more like!

[Weston Saint]

OS has crashed. Rupes has puled the plug!!!!

Hardly, he is away this week

[buctootim]

FFS buctootim, the 5 quid joke was mine.:(

You can have it for a tenner :D

[DarrenLeTiss]

Anyone else slightly worried that Svensson didn't play tonight?

[magie]

Hardly, he is away this week

Trust you to know that bit of information

[Dannyboy_Saint]

Funny how a team with the likes of John, BWP, Wotton, Dyer, etc are now considered the 'second' team. Have to wait and see how well the team played in the 1st half but im getting more confident with every passing day that we'll at least be able to hold our own in this league and finish mid-table or higher.

[Cumbria Saint]

I'm getting increasingly encouraged here.

Does anyone know where I can get the best odds for Saints to get promoted - not top, just promoted?

[Saint Charlie]

Anyone else slightly worried that Svensson didn't play tonight?


He had a tough 90mins last Friday. He knows what his limits are. He won't play 46 games this season. Anything above 20 would be great IMO.

Killer knows his own body.

[jimmysaint7]

Anyone else slightly worried that Svensson didn't play tonight?

na i think 3 games in a week was probably just a step to far for him

[Hacienda]

Anyone else slightly worried that Svensson didn't play tonight?

Don't expect him to play two games in a week.

[buctootim]

I'm getting increasingly encouraged here.

Does anyone know where I can get the best odds for Saints to get promoted - not top, just promoted?

Betdaq have got 13-1. Dont know if that is still best - try oddschecker.com

edit William Hill at 14-1 http://www.willhill.com/iibs/EN/buildcoupon.asp?couponchoice=FB2191987&aff=doddscheck

[Saints67]

From Stokes offical site
Southampton 2 Stoke City 3
Posted on: Tue 05 Aug 2008

City continued their impressive pre-season form after ousting Southampton 3-2 in a competitive friendly at St Mary's.

Dave Kitson put the Potters ahead on two minutes, before David McGoldrick squared things up on 32 minutes.

Vincent Pericard stroked home a screamer to put the Potters back in to the lead in the second half, before Stern John pegged City back for a second time just a minute later.

However, with just ten minutes remaining, Tony Pulis' side chalked up their fifth win from six thanks to an own goal from Saints defender Jamie Hatch, after more good work from the impressive Pericard.

Tony Pulis handed Seyi Olofinjana his first start for the club following his £3,000,000 move from Wolves, while Denmark number one Thomas Sorensen made his first appearance as a second half substitute.

Leon Cort returned to the starting line up after recovering from a minor thigh strain which he picked up in Austria, while Kitson continued up front partnering Mamady Sidibe.

Liam Lawrence wasn't involved in the squad for the game, despite travelling with the squad to the South coast.

A frantic start to the game could have seen the hosts ahead after just 17 seconds. McGoldrick burst in to the box from the kick off but drilled his effort over the bar.

However, just 60 seconds later it was the Potters who drew first blood. Kitson met Sidibe's neat flick on with aplomb and smashed home his first goal for the Potters, much to the delight of the travelling 223 City supporters.

The visitors continued to dominate the early proceedings with Anthony Pulis warming the palms of Kelvin Davis with a long range effort.

Former Sunderland stopper Davis was then forced to produce an outstanding save minutes later to thwart Pulis, who went even closer with a strike which was expertly tipped around the post.

A combination of Simonsen and Cort denied Adam Lallana the chance to equalise in the 17th minute, after the Saints striker looked set to level from close range, before the City pair cleared the danger.

Carl D**kinson was forced off shortly after, having fallen awkwardly under a challenge from a Southampton midfielder.

Malian international Sidibe could have doubled the advantage for the visitors mid way through the first half, but after latching on to Olofinjana's clever header, his effort was well blocked by former City defender Wayne Thomas.

Jan Poortvliet's side went close just after the half hour through Lallana, who after beating two defenders drilled a 25-yard effort inches wide of the right hand post.

Pulis shuffled things about a bit with a change in the 34th minute, replacing Cresswell with former Southampton loanee Vincent Pericard.

The hosts pressure paid off in the 37th minute as McGoldrick cleverly controlled and turned in the penalty area before flashing his effort across Simonsen and in to the bottom left hand corner.

Simonsen had to be alert on several occasions before the end of the first half, firstly to thwart Lallana and then to save from the impressive Jake Thomson.

Both managers made wholesale changes during the half time interval, with the hosts lining up a totally different eleven, while City welcomed Sorensen, Salif Diao, Jon Parkin and Danny Pugh to the field.

Saints youngster Jamie White gave former Aston Villa keeper Sorensen his first taste of action in the 61st minute, with a thunderous effort which the City keeper superbly reacted to.

Lewis Buxton was next to be brought on, with Cort making way for the former Portsmouth youngster.

The hosts almost found themselves 2-1 up mid-way through the second half, after Sorensen let the ball slip through his palms, only for Grzegorz Rasiak to have his effort cleared off the line by Wilkinson.

It was City though who would take the lead with just over 15 minutes remaining.

Pericard picked the ball up 40-yards out, danced past a defender and launched a thunderous effort which dipped beyond the outstretched hands of Bartosz Bailkowski and in to the top left hand corner.

The lead lasted barely two minutes though, as last seasons top goalscorer John headed home unmarked from 6-yards.

An injury to Shawcross in the 79th minute led to Cort making his way back on to the field in bizarre circumstances.

With the game looking likely to end all square, City snatched a deserved victory late on after Pericard, who impressed, beat three defenders, rounded the keeper and then watched Jamie Hatch knock the ball in to his own net after trying to clear the ball away from danger.

CITY: Simonsen (Sorensen 46); Griffin (C), Cort (Buxton 63), Shawcross, D**kinson (Wilkinson 28); Delap, Olofinjana (Diao 49), Pulis, Cresswell (Pericard 34); Sidibe (Pugh 49), Kitson (Parkin 49). Subs: Whelan

SAINTS (1st Half): Davis; James, Perry (C), Thomas, Surman; Thomson, Schneiderlin, Gullett, Holmes; Lallana, McGoldrick.

SAINTS (2nd Half): Bialkowski; Hatch, Thomas, Racine, Mills; Dyer, White, Wotton (C), Wright-Phillips; John, Rasiak.

[AlfredKo]

Pericard, who impressed, beat three defenders, rounded the keeper and then watched Jamie Hatch knock the ball in to his own net after trying to clear the ball away from danger.

What the **** is that?

[exit2]

Trust you to know that bit of information

Fishing in Yellowknife, Northern Territory Canada

[Saint Charlie]

http://www.stokecityfc.premiumtv.co.uk/page/NewsDetail/0,,10310~1359103,00.html

Stoke report. Despite an even report they suddenly suggest that Stoke got a deserved winner...

[Joesaint]

If you put £1 on saints promotion and pompy relegated get £299 return.
worth a pound bet and in my dreams maybe!

[jimmysaint7]

Pericard, who impressed, beat three defenders, rounded the keeper and then watched Jamie Hatch knock the ball in to his own net after trying to clear the ball away from danger.

What the **** is that?

im sure people at the game will have a different view on the goal. the bit about stoke getting a deserved winner made me laugh

[exit2]

"Pericard picked the ball up 40-yards out, danced past a defender and launched a thunderous effort which dipped beyond the outstretched hands of Bartosz Bailkowski and in to the top left hand corner."

How about this for praising one of their own up.

[benjii]

****inson.

Lol.

[AlfredKo]

"Pericard picked the ball up 40-yards out, danced past a defender and launched a thunderous effort which dipped beyond the outstretched hands of Bartosz Bailkowski and in to the top left hand corner."

How about this for praising one of their own up.

Very much extremely incredible.

[benjii]

Suddenly our OS looks like Private Eye.

Had a look at the West Ham one after Friday's game and that was a load of bull too.

[Junction 9]

What was the crowd?

[JustMike]

What was the crowd?

just over 5000..


just got back, no where near as good as we were v west ham, and we looked a little bit light weight v there bigger players, worryingly as that is the sort we are going to come up against this season. As for Stoke, they are going to get smashed in the premiership

[AwaySaint1]

Fishing in Yellowknife, Northern Territory Canada

Yellowknife,is that the place they run from to the diamond mines on ice road truckers?

[AwaySaint1]

just over 5000..

As for Stoke, they are going to get smashed in the premiership

smashed or SMASHED like Derby?

[Saint Charlie]

just over 5000..


just got back, no where near as good as we were v west ham, and we looked a little bit light weight v there bigger players, worryingly as that is the sort we are going to come up against this season. As for Stoke, they are going to get smashed in the premiership

To be fair most teams would look lightweight against Stoke, any particularly good/weak performances? Good goal for DMG?

[JustMike]

To be fair most teams would look lightweight against Stoke, any particularly good/weak performances? Good goal for DMG?

am very impressed with spiderman, and holmes takes up some good positions. DMG worked hard, didnt see his goal as was in toilet!!

I am still worried about our full back situation, if that lot are all we have them im very worried

[JustMike]

smashed or smashed like derby?

s.m.a.s.h.e.d.

[tombletomble]

****inson.

Lol.


I was going to post that too :)

[Saint Charlie]

DMG must be gaining confidence after getting a good run, hopefully he can get his first CCC goal quickly and you never know what might happen. We need to get the midfielders scoring though.

[AwaySaint1]

If you put £1 on saints promotion and pompy relegated get £299 return.
worth a pound bet and in my dreams maybe!

You may get better odds on pompey to win the league and us to get relegated.

[St Marco]

Was a good match i thought, Pericard's goal was good! If we can do a bit better in defence then we will be alright. Even though we lost i am a bit more confident we can do ok. Thomson was good again. Davis in goal made some great saves too. Bring on saturday!

[saintkiptanui]

Imagine being called C*ntinson

[saintwarwick]

am very impressed with spiderman, and holmes takes up some good positions. DMG worked hard, didnt see his goal as was in toilet!!

I am still worried about our full back situation, if that lot are all we have them im very worried

Stoke's report suggests Lallana had a good game, is this true?

[St Marco]

Stoke's report suggests Lallana had a good game, is this true?

He missed a few chances but i felt combined well with DMG. On a scale of 1-10 i'd say he was a solid 7. Which compared to last seasons ratings is pretty good! After the last 2 games i would deffinatly start with those 2.

[Stu Man Do]

First half clearly had our players not 100% none the less played some nice stuff just same as usual few real efforts or taking too long to shoot .. Llalana (sp?) was class though and Holmes delivered some good crosses. Thought Gillet did well vs a much bigger opponent! Thomson looked rather jaded though didnt get forward as much as 2nd half vs WH and seemed a bit lost.

2nd half was wholescale change people with most credit from this half would have to be mills who gt forward and defended brilliantly, John who had a few decent chances and Dyer who to my mind should be starting on sat in place of thomson. Even BWP looked reasonable. Only thing 2nd half was we seemed susceptible to the counter attack with so many players bombing forward. To be fair thats all Stoke really had but they were organised and so this was a good test Kitson looked good for them but fell over alot ... ****age :-p If thats all they have this season see a points return circa Derbys by next may!

[Loyal Saint]

Stoke's report suggests Lallana had a good game, is this true?

Lallana was quality. Always found space for himself and looks well suited to playing in that role off the striker dropping deep and linking up the play. Also nice to see the full backs not having to lump it long as he's always looking for it to feet. Surman in particular found him a few times along the deck when last season it would have been a good old lump and hope for the best.

Very impressed whenever I've seen him so far pre-season

[Saint Matty 76]

http://www.stokecityfc.premiumtv.co.uk/page/NewsDetail/0,,10310~1359103,00.html

Stoke report. Despite an even report they suddenly suggest that Stoke got a deserved winner...
I had to lol.

[Saint Fan CaM]

Positives...
1. Lots of possession.
2. Good, quick passing game.
3. Davis good game - better than Bart for sure and defo no.1 goalie.
Overall, at half-time I was starting to think - "I might actually enjoy next season - perhaps I've been wrong about the coach"

Negatives
1. In both halves the defending was awful at times...particularly Thomas made some terrible blunders for a seasoned pro. But the youngsters in the 2nd half were not up to the job.
2. Despite good passing and possession, the goal threat was weak. The only striker that has the ability to shoot with feet it seems is Stern John and he is just not getting the service when we play hoof ball to Rasiak. This REALLY needs sorting out - DMcG is NOT good enough to get us the goals we need IMO.
3. I paid good money to choose my seats in the Kingsland only to find it was a free-for-all unreserved seat match and my seats were taken! Once again the club tramples over its customers FFS.

Anyway, in summary I actually think we will do OK if we keep John and/or Rasiak. Not top half, but not relegation and thats a definate improvement over what I thought 24 hours ago. Bring it on.

[Thedelldays]

your comment about unreserved seats..I knew that was the case last week and I had no intention on going tonight..

[Saint Fan CaM]

your comment about unreserved seats..I knew that was the case last week and I had no intention on going tonight..

I bought them via the website and it let me choose the seating area - why not tell me then that it was unreserved seating? It really hacks me off the way the club is so poorly managed in this regard.

[Pugwash]

Positives...
1. Lots of possession.
2. Good, quick passing game.
3. Davis good game - better than Bart for sure and defo no.1 goalie.
Overall, at half-time I was starting to think - "I might actually enjoy next season - perhaps I've been wrong about the coach"

Negatives
1. In both halves the defending was awful at times...particularly Thomas made some terrible blunders for a seasoned pro. But the youngsters in the 2nd half were not up to the job.
2. Despite good passing and possession, the goal threat was weak. The only striker that has the ability to shoot with feet it seems is Stern John and he is just not getting the service when we play hoof ball to Rasiak. This REALLY needs sorting out - DMcG is NOT good enough to get us the goals we need IMO.


Pretty much sums it up for me. Thomas glaringly at fault for at least two of the goals, he just doesn't appear to know where he's meant to be. Lallana exceptional again.

Oh, and ten thugs + Rory Delap a premiership team does not make. Perhaps the ref was asked to ignore their 'muscling' to harden up the youngsters?:-k

[Jimmy_C]

Odds for Saints in Labrokes :

5-1 To be relegated
11-1 to be promoted

Went to the game, Im slightly concerned with lightweightness of our team, The Championship is renowned as we know for its bully-boy tactics and im not sure that the current Squad can handle it! But I hope im wrong.

Played some attractive football at times, lost possesion too much in midfield and seemed scared to have a shot. We tried to walk it in too much, kind of Arsenalesque.
A massive positive though is the fitness of the players compared to the end of last season, Rasiak for one looked alot slimmer and was chasing the ball down (yes i did say chasing the ball down) .

Dyer looked in top form, so did Spiderman.

So overall I think it was a good run out. Davies is definately Number 1 keeper, If you watched Bialkowski he wasnt too sure where to be one minute he would decide to run out for the ball, then change his mind and get back on his goal-line, I did see Perry having a word at one point.

Im not over-optimistic but once everything is all settled I think we will be OK, after all we are starting the season as an unknown quantity really, so im expecting a few surprises.

[mprobert]

A game of two halves I thought. First half was close to the 1st half form against West Ham, but somehow not with the same sustained energy - I think Stoke played a bit more of a spoiling game compared to West Ham. Overall continuing to impress though.

Second half was strange, and very disjointed after some of the flowing moves of the first half, but somehow felt a bit more threatening in the box at times with Stern John and Rasiak on the end of the crosses. Pericard should never have been allowed to go as far as he did and the winner was a bit of a comedy effort.

Looking forward to watching our best 11 perform.

[Roman]

Looking forward to watching our best 11 perform.

Who would that be from the 21 players you saw tonight (plus Svensson presumably)?

[Stu Man Do]

Who would that be from the 21 players you saw tonight (plus Svensson presumably)?

If I was to chose;

Davis
Lloyd James Svensson Perry (with no davies as yet) Surman (because who else do we have?!)

Dyer Morgan S Gillet Holmes

Llalana

John

[rockhill]

The statring 11 with
Thomas out and Svensson in

[mprobert]

Who would that be from the 21 players you saw tonight (plus Svensson presumably)?

Davis
James Perry Killer Surman
Shneiderlin Gillet
Lallana
BWP Holmes
McGoldrick

Stern John for some games up front, and we might need Wotton with MS in CM for some of the more physical battles. ...and Andrew Davies Centre Defence instead of Perry when available.

[Stu Man Do]

The statring 11 with
Thomas out and Svensson in


You think Thomson is truely up to a start on Saturday?! You're a braver arm chair manager than I lol

[hypochondriac]

Who would that be from the 21 players you saw tonight (plus Svensson presumably)?

For me it would be

James Svennson Perry Surman

Dyer Schneiderlin Gillet Holmes

Lallana

McGoldrick

(or whatever crazy formation we play). Would like to see McGoldrick given a chance, but definitely have John on the bench to swap with DMG should we need to.

[Loyal Saint]

If I was to chose;

Davis
Lloyd James Svensson Perry (with no davies as yet) Surman (because who else do we have?!)

Dyer Morgan S Gillet Holmes

Llalana

John

I'd agree with that. (although no John for Cardiff due to suspension)

Like what I've seen so far from all of the above but squad wise we are thin to say the least & will need a bit of luck for a change this season on the injury front

[hypochondriac]

You think Thomson is truely up to a start on Saturday?! You're a braver arm chair manager than I lol

I thought he was really good on Friday. Maybe I am alone in that view.

[NickG]

thought was not as nippy as WHU but still good performance.
First half showed that skillful play and moving ball around quickly can match a physical team.

2nd half thought actually looked more traditional tactics - slower moving of the ball and midfield dropping back towards 4 with two forwards. John and Rasiak were not noticeably John behind a lot of the time.

Rasiak started lively -chasing the defenders.

Dyer looked very lively, good skills and very up for it.
My prediction for team

Davis
James Perry Svensson Surman
Schneiderlin Gillet
Dyer Lallana Holmes
McG

[NickG]

For me it would be

James Svennson Perry Surman

Dyer Schneiderlin Gillet Holmes

Lallana

McGoldrick

(or whatever crazy formation we play). Would like to see McGoldrick given a chance, but definitely have John on the bench to swap with DMG should we need to.

John still suspended

[wild-saint]

first half -
good slick passing,look good going forward, however Im worried where the goals will come from
Thomas so far off the pace it was embarrassing
Very lightweight, The team i fear will get bullied out of the game IMO.
We really need an old head alongside spiderman who can add some steel to the side.

Second half

Much the same as last year, lump it forward, immobile front man
Dyer should start ahead of thompson
Stern john to play ahead of DMG
Wotton what can I say - Pedestrian
Mills looked pretty good.

Overall The second half side would get relegated bottom without a doubt. the first half side have undoubted potential but we need Svenson and Davies fit as a minimum.

I guess we will see what they are cabable off in a real competitive match come saturday.

[hypochondriac]

John still suspended

Yeah I saw. Well then that's the tactic for the 2nd game. Maybe use Rasiak.

[NickG]

although there were negatives about the experimental 2nd half side I think to say it would finish bottom without doubt is bit OTT!

[wild-saint]

although there were negatives about the experimental 2nd half side I think to say it would finish bottom without doubt is bit OTT!

Really, its far worse than our starting 11 last year and that finished fifth from bottom. So not that OTT I think.

[NickG]

get the impression the new mgt team would not stand for players underperforming like the four managers did last year!

[LGTL]

As optimistic as I am, I think it is criminal that we are going into a season without one recognised/proven full back. I'm sure Burley was criticised for the same thing this time last year regarding central defenders.

[davec]

The starting XI on Sturday should be as tonight - except Killer for Thomas. Those saying Dyer should play instead of Thomson are totally wrong! Thomson is a far better crosser of the ball is more direct and links well with James and Lallana.
I can't wait for the new season - we will be the Arsenal of the Championship!
We will be great to watch and to all the doubters, get your monet on at least reaching the playoffs!

[Roman]

The starting XI on Sturday should be as tonight - except Killer for Thomas. Those saying Dyer should play instead of Thomson are totally wrong! Thomson is a far better crosser of the ball is more direct and links well with James and Lallana.
I can't wait for the new season - we will be the Arsenal of the Championship!
We will be great to watch and to all the doubters, get your monet on at least reaching the playoffs!

I haven't got any Monets. Will Emins do?

[saintcrris]

As optimistic as I am, I think it is criminal that we are going into a season without one recognised/proven full back. I'm sure Burley was criticised for the same thing this time last year regarding central defenders.

I agree 100%
Yet it seems not to bother anyone this season, I really don't care if the new guys are making all the right noises. To do the same thing at the start two seasons running is total madness.

Anyway enjoyed the game.

[wild-saint]

I dont think even GAzza would be mad enough to back us for promotion. Stay up yes, go up no chance

[GeckoSaint]

Kinda felt like a reserve match with only 5k in the the place.

I reckon we'll be alright next season as we only just lost to the 2nd best CCC team from last season.

Positives:
Davis
James
Schneiderlin
Holmes
Lallana
McGoldrick
John
Hatch
Mills
Dyer
White

Neutral:
Surman
Wotton
Gillett
Perry
Bialkowski
Thomson

Negatives:
Thomas - Out of his depth, very disappointing performance
Racine - Naive at times
Wright-Phillips - no end product
Rasiak - doesn't fit Saints new system

[Micky]

Good to read so many optimistic posts for a change... but let's be frank (or george...!), the bottom line is we have to improve on last season - otherwise we are out of this league too.

Personally - I'm looking forward to it given what I've heard of the squad up to now. Under no illusions of promotion, but hoping for some good things from the young guns.

[southamptonfclegend]

Kinda felt like a reserve match with only 5k in the the place.

I reckon we'll be alright next season as we only just lost to the 2nd best CCC team from last season.

Positives:
Davis
James
Schneiderlin
Holmes
Lallana
McGoldrick
John
Hatch
Mills
Dyer
White

Neutral:
Surman
Wotton
Gillett
Perry
Bialkowski
Thomson

Negatives:
Thomas - Out of his depth, very disappointing performance
Racine - Naive at times
Wright-Phillips - no end product
Rasiak - doesn't fit Saints new system

what was positive about davis he did NOTHING,
and dyer he was awful should have gone down the line instead always cut inside he's SH*T

[southamptonfclegend]

and thought mills looked shocking tbh alright going foward defended like a sheep FFS get realistic mate

[Deanovski]

mills was alright lallana holmes andddd thompson were ACE mcgoldrick was **** until he scored. we were screwed again by a rubbish reff guess he thought it was basketball

[martin_au]

d**kinson!!! lol!!!

[austsaint]

The starting XI on Sturday should be as tonight - except Killer for Thomas. Those saying Dyer should play instead of Thomson are totally wrong! Thomson is a far better crosser of the ball is more direct and links well with James and Lallana.
I can't wait for the new season - we will be the Arsenal of the Championship!
We will be great to watch and to all the doubters, get your monet on at least reaching the playoffs!

Thanks for your impressions!

[JustMike]

Stoke's report suggests Lallana had a good game, is this true?

yes he did, just needs to work on his final ball a bit but yes he was good

[70's Mike]

mills was alright lallana holmes andddd thompson were ACE mcgoldrick was **** until he scored. we were screwed again by a rubbish reff guess he thought it was basketball

the comment over the Ref is something we can expect this season, we are playing a style that is alien to this division and the vast majority of the country.
Thing that intrigues me is that i thought Wotton had been brought in to act a "minder" like Jimmy Case did , but that does not appear to be happening unless it is felt he cannot play 2 games a week.

[pedg]

the comment over the Ref is something we can expect this season, we are playing a style that is alien to this division and the vast majority of the country.
Thing that intrigues me is that i thought Wotton had been brought in to act a "minder" like Jimmy Case did , but that does not appear to be happening unless it is felt he cannot play 2 games a week.

I think you have to remember it was a friendly and just as you are not supposed to imply to much about how the players will play in real competitive matches that is just as true about the refs. Ref's are generally far more lenient in friendlies than competitive matches.

[70's Mike]

I think you have to remember it was a friendly and just as you are not supposed to imply to much about how the players will play in real competitive matches that is just as true about the refs. Ref's are generally far more lenient in friendlies than competitive matches.

hope you are right because CCC ref's are not to good on picking up the pushing etc, hence Derby's success with Moore and Howard

[pedg]

hope you are right because CCC ref's are not to good on picking up the pushing etc, hence Derby's success with Moore and Howard

I think (hope) the difference will be that this season when our players get fouled it will more regularly just after they have passed the ball on and I think even CCC referees are going to have to start booking people for late challenges after a while.

[Johnny Shearer]

Hmm, I still think we'll do better than we did last season. Some people seem to be worrying too much. I won't be too concerned until 10/15 games in when a more informed judgement can be made!

[Wade Garrett]

Showed me last night that John and Rasiak can play together. John played a blinder last night and played a little deeper. Vey impressed with Schneiderlin, and young White. Good performances from Lallana and Dyer. Poor performances from Thomas and Wright-Phillips (greedy bastard). Davis looked better than Bart (surprise, surprise).

First time I have seen the new team. Can't say I'm wetting myself in anticipation for the start of the season.

[SaintRichmond]

Oh, and ten thugs + Rory Delap a premiership team does not make. Perhaps the ref was asked to ignore their 'muscling' to harden up the youngsters?:-k


Agreed ... but they ARE a Prem Team ( for this season anyway )

They did however, illustrate exactly the type of opposition we can expect in most matches in the CCC .... hard, uncompromising, physical, etc.

Completely different to West Ham, who do like to play Football, like Saints

But, IMHO, Saints "playing football " is their Achiiles heel. Last night, the Football was not quite as flowing as we had seen in previous matches, but WHY ?? .... quite simply, the opposition Sus it out and prevent you playing it. A few unpunished crunching tackles will soon deter youthful exhuberance.

DMG up front in the CCC is NOT the answer. He MUST have help, possibly from Stern John, who has the muscle and experience to deal with the "ten thugs" scenario.

Rasiak ?? Last night showed why no one wants him. running around like a headless chicken, and achieving nothing.

To be realistic, we ARE going to struggle, but I don't think to the extent of being Relegation certainties.

[OldNick]

Im surprised Euell is not in the frame.He puts himself about and against Salisbury he was aggressive and making runs in attack.He would also look out for the youngsters.

[saint-ross]

what was positive about davis he did NOTHING,
and dyer he was awful should have gone down the line instead always cut inside he's SH*T

Davis' distribution was great last night. Released a few early balls and also played some short balss too, unlike last season, sit on it till everyone's settled then hoof it up field. Made a great save too.

[OldNick]

Davis' distribution was great last night. Released a few early balls and also played some short balss too, unlike last season, sit on it till everyone's settled then hoof it up field. Made a great save too.Last season we didnt have the movement to set the play up straight away.
His first priority is to make sure our defence is organised before launching the ball, because if it came straight back and the oppo scored who'd get the blame? There again he gets the blame whatever.

[Chris Medway]

Odds for Saints in Labrokes :

5-1 To be relegated
11-1 to be promoted

Went to the game, Im slightly concerned with lightweightness of our team, The Championship is renowned as we know for its bully-boy tactics and im not sure that the current Squad can handle it! But I hope im wrong.

Played some attractive football at times, lost possesion too much in midfield and seemed scared to have a shot. We tried to walk it in too much, kind of Arsenalesque.
A massive positive though is the fitness of the players compared to the end of last season, Rasiak for one looked alot slimmer and was chasing the ball down (yes i did say chasing the ball down) .

Dyer looked in top form, so did Spiderman.

So overall I think it was a good run out. Davies is definately Number 1 keeper, If you watched Bialkowski he wasnt too sure where to be one minute he would decide to run out for the ball, then change his mind and get back on his goal-line, I did see Perry having a word at one point.

Im not over-optimistic but once everything is all settled I think we will be OK, after all we are starting the season as an unknown quantity really, so im expecting a few surprises.

I didn't think Perry played in the second half?????????

[hypochondriac]

what was positive about davis he did NOTHING,
and dyer he was awful should have gone down the line instead always cut inside he's SH*T
I don't want to argue with you. Suffice to say you are very wrong

[Wade Garrett]

Fishing in Yellowknife, Northern Territory Canada

Odd time to take a holiday, with the season starting so soon. I do hope he's got his mobile with him.

[suspect everyone]

What I don't understand is why JP plays all the youngsters in the first half, such as McG and co., then brings on the old pros in the second half, such as Stern, Rasiak, BWP and Dyer.

Surely a blend of these two teams would be stronger and surely it would have been worth trying out a few different teams during pre-season.

[OldNick]

What I don't understand is why JP plays all the youngsters in the first half, such as McG and co., then brings on the old pros in the second half, such as Stern, Rasiak, BWP and Dyer.

Surely a blend of these two teams would be stronger and surely it would have been worth trying out a few different teams during pre-season.Not if you think the team in the first half is the one to play saturday.In all the pre season games he has blended the teams and this is now hw he wants to play.

[Ekelund24]

There were loads of positives in the first half and the best football we have played in years. Gillet, Lallana and Schindler as a CM three worked the ball very well and the defensive two got stuck in without giving away needless fouls. We moved the ball very quickly all over the team and will run some teams ragged, IF we can get the wide forwards behind the defence to cut the ball back we could see a lot of goals this year.

Second half was horrible compared to the first, Wotton was shocking as was Thomas which made Parkin and Pericard look like world beaters!! Rasiak won't fit into the new system and needs to be offloaded asap. John looked good and maybe better suited to the central forward position than McGoldrick who may be best as one of the wide forwards. Dyer played ok no more no less, needs to stop coming inside and try going outside his man, although to his credit he did work very well moving the ball quickly and getting into a good position. Mills, Hatch and White will be good squad players and will hopefully improve over the season.

Team for Cardiff

Davies
James Svensson Perry Surman
Schindler Gillet
Lallana
Dyer Holmes
McGoldrick

[Wilf]

Team for Cardiff

Davies
James Svensson Perry Surman
Schindler Gillet
Lallana
Dyer Holmes
McGoldrick


Schindler?

Oh yes, you mean Schneiderlin?

[SaintRichmond]

Schindler?

Oh yes, you mean Schneiderlin?


I thought he meant Schindler's List ???

[Jimmy_C]

Quick question, Svensson is not in the OS squad, he hasnt signed a contract, so therefore is he eligible to play on Saturday?

[Charlie Wayman]

The second half team was a joke. Just running around like headless chickens most of the time. Dyer and BWP would be better employed at Wimbledon as chase-hares for the doggies. As for Rasiak, will anybody ever make an offer for him.. please?

Thomas and Perry were disastrous. Apart from mistiming every jump he made Thomas insisted on playing old style "hoofball" football in the new slick-style Saints and looked a complete Rrse in doing so. Please, oh please get Andrew Davies back out there soon and please, pretty please Michael Svennson, please stay fit!

[Ekelund24]

I thought he meant Schindler's List ???

I'm getting used to his name but haven't quite got it yet and that is the nearest name I have to it :-)

He looks a class apart though especially if Gillett plays like a terrier in midfield with him pressuring mistakes. I thought that all the forward players defended very well putting pressure on Stoke and forcing them into mistakes and hopefull long ball!!!!

[Causer]

The oldies are awful apart from stern ,rasiak perry wotton thomas were appaling as well as bradley
positives all youngsters particulary spiderman and lallana
Gilett and mills have so much fight

[OldNick]

The second half team was a joke. Just running around like headless chickens most of the time. Dyer and BWP would be better employed at Wimbledon as chase-hares for the doggies. As for Rasiak, will anybody ever make an offer for him.. please?

Thomas and Perry were disastrous. Apart from mistiming every jump he made Thomas insisted on playing old style "hoofball" football in the new slick-style Saints and looked a complete Rrse in doing so. Please, oh please get Andrew Davies back out there soon and please, pretty please Michael Svennson, please stay fit!getting behind the club for the new season then.

[krissyboy31]

Quick question, Svensson is not in the OS squad, he hasnt signed a contract, so therefore is he eligible to play on Saturday?

He is eligible because he is a registered player, contracts have nothing to do with it.

[rockhill]

Perry did not play the second half !!

It was Racine who came on in the second half.

I think he is about 16 years old and probably his first game at St Marys.
So can we give him a chance ?
It was a big ask for him to look after Parkin and Pericard with only an off form Thomas for help.

[saint-ross]

i thought Perry had a reasonable game, was an incident where he was too casual getting to the ball and gave their big forward bloke a chance. Played far better than Thomas and Racine, thomas really struggled last night, im sure he wont be first choice this season.