Dark Munster

I have an American passport so can vote here in the USA. I have to hand it to the Republicans, they have succeeded, after his guilty verdict for the heinous crime of ticking the wrong box on a gun permit application, I definitely won't be voting for Hunter Biden.

I don't!

Sigh. You again seem to find it difficult to distinguish between expectations in the Championship vs. the PL. In the former we had one of the best squads, and certainly one of the most expensive (both in signings and wages). So of course RM was expected to take us up. Fortunately he did very well in the playoffs, aided by a timely loss of our incompetent first choice GK (RM himself admitted he was an idiot not to have played AM earlier). In the PL it's a completely different kettle of fish. As it stands we have the worst squad in the league, except for Ipswich and possibly Leicester. If we don't significantly strengthen I for one won't blame RM if we inevitably go back down again. SR? That's a different matter.

"The reactions on the Saintsweb forum following a likely opening day defeat for Southampton FC could vary widely, as with any fan community after a disappointing result. Here's a range of potential reactions you might see: Disappointment and Frustration: Many fans might express disappointment and frustration, especially if the defeat was unexpected or against a perceived weaker opponent. They might vent their frustration about individual player performances, managerial decisions, or the team's overall strategy. Calls for Change: Some fans might use the defeat as a platform to call for changes within the club, such as new signings, a change in tactics, or even a change in management if they feel the current setup isn't working. Analytical Discussions: There could be analytical discussions where fans break down what went wrong tactically, which players underperformed, and what improvements need to be made for future matches. This might involve detailed analysis of specific moments in the game and comparisons to previous performances. Optimism and Support: Despite the defeat, there will likely be fans who remain optimistic and supportive of the team. They might encourage fellow fans to stay positive and focus on the long season ahead, emphasizing that it's just one game and there's plenty of time to bounce back. Blame Game: Unfortunately, some fans might resort to blaming individuals, whether it's players, coaches, or the club's management. This could lead to heated debates and arguments within the forum. Humor and Memes: To lighten the mood, you might also see some fans using humor and creating memes to cope with the disappointment. This could involve poking fun at the situation or finding ways to laugh at themselves as fans. Overall, the reaction will likely be a mix of emotions, ranging from disappointment and frustration to optimism and humor, with varying degrees of analysis and calls for change."

Simple answer really, the manager didn't take preparing for penalties seriously enough. Just like all other England managers before Southgate.

Between this thread, and the Circle of Trust one, we have the latest transfer news and rumours:

True, but we had the king of ruthlessness Cortese in charge back then.

They are the driving force behind the proposed breakaway super league for the filthy rich clubs in Europe to get even richer. The top EU court also found them guilty of receiving illegal state aid.

Ancellotti is class, with an incredible record. Can't stand Real Madrid though.

It's incredible that he's completed a whole season with them and not scored one free kick. He should come back and start scoring them again for us.

Absolutely: Leicester 5 Saints 0 with 66% possession. Compared to Leeds 1 Saints 2 and Leeds 0 Saints 1, both with about 43% possession. Enough said. But this interview worries me that he's itching to go back to his possession obsession: https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/articles/crgg4kp6ly3o

I like it. Kill two birds with one stone.

Wow, you look just like your avatar.

Not me. I was hiding behind mine.

From the Beeb: Won't be easy to score 279 against this Surrey attack.

Depends. Any Leeds fans lurking? <grin>

If we lose tomorrow get ready for the Ankersen/SR minions to blame Gao.

The same SR whose recruitment (players and managers) has been mostly disastrous, squandered £100 million, and got us relegated rooted at the bottom of the table last season?

Sounds like Rosenior is exactly what Ankersen and SR are looking for.

So if Saints win then Monday will be the second best day of your life?

I don't buy it. If Adams is fit and this was a meaningless end of season dead rubber I can understand him not playing. But for one of the most important matches in our history it would make no sense for the club to let him sit out if fit because of a potential move to Wolves. And I don't think he's the type to throw his toys out of the pram and refuse to play at Wembley.

Not as overrated as Poch.