austsaint

Spoke

Subs made a huge difference. Confident Dobbin is going to be a good player for us; likewise Mubama has something about him - great finish after the Dobbin, Azaz build up. Much better second half - it's obvious where the recruitment is needed at cm, cb and ideally another striker. Downes our best today, and Matsuki, though not a cm, did well but will need to drop the Sugawara "off your feet" tackling style quick smart. Massive win while not playing well and with key player losses.

Prologue

Defeat

Admit

I don't expect my view to be a popular one, but I'm doubting Bragg is a good enough cm to be in our "best three". That's Downes, Jander and a Charles replacement. Bragg did best last season when brought on as a sub, or often having two other midfielders with him. He strikes me as, essentially a good recycling passer of the ball with a good work rate. Hope he can show improvement this season and show more pace, box-to-box attributes and better tackling, interception, break up play technique. At 21 this is a defining season for him. The Club have been patient, Tonda obviously likes him. Is he going to develop into anything more than a Smallbone type without the goals? I think we need better, especially if we're promoted.

Uncover

Probe

There's been a lot of expectation put on this lads shoulders. At this stage Bragg looks like a safe, recycling midfielder making simple passes. Not having Charles or Jander to partner Downes has weakened us today. Bragg is not ready to be a starting cm, and on his showing today, may never be.

Young Bragg is not up to speed today.

Looks all at sea so far.

Makes you wonder why he's made the bench - hardly a shop window prospect is he? Could have put one of the U/21 midfielders in place of BBD. Let's hope Derby are still keen,

Good lineup. Would be a worry if either Downes or Bragg pick up an injury - no cm cover on the bench.

Less

With