Smith – 8.5 – a 10 for his second half heroics, but he struggled in the first half. At one stage his front post was exposed for a corner, his response was to shrug and point at it like a scared child. If Smith is to be our number one goalkeeper he really must work on this part of his game.
Chambers – 6 – struggled at times, especially in failing to cut out crosses, but this was a tremendously hard-working display. Chambers adores the adulation of the supporters and is relishing life as a Championship player, I just don’t think he is quite good enough.
Breckin – 7 – a solid performance overall, despite several moments of indecision – particularly later on when legs were dragging. His negative approach to defending can be frustrating, but it suits a team that is under the cosh and I was grateful to have him there tonight.
Wilson – 7 – one of his better performances this season. One or two mistakes, which he atoned for, and a concrete performance.
Lynch – 4 – Kelly says he was injured at half-time, which means Lynch either bottled it or Kelly is protecting him. A woeful display.
Anderson – 7.5 – his pace on the break was fundamental to our recovery. He will be missed. He and Cohen were superb on the break.
Perch – 8 – I’m not Perch’s biggest fan but I thought he matured remarkably for the occasion. His midfield input consisted of little more than scrapping, but some of his last ditch tackles were exceptional.
McGugan – 6.5 – a tale of two halves, as with everybody else. Missed the opportunity to boss the game in the second half; he could have owned the midfield tonight and an on-song Lewis might have won it.
Cohen – 7.5 – somewhat lost in a midfield that was being bypassed completely, but his application made him extremely useful in the second half. I can remember two or three cross-field balls that were remarkable.
Earnshaw – 8 – what a moment, and what an excellent striker’s goal.
Tyson – 8 – looks three or four times the player that he did a few months ago. I now get excited when the ball leaves his boot. Keep it up, please.
McCleary – 7 – a bit of a ‘one trick pony’, but the trick seemed to work tonight. A bit too laid back for my liking, but he got the job done.
