Smith – 5.5 – before today he had improved some aspects of his game, including his throwing, but today showcased perfectly why some supporters are not happy with him. He invites pressure on to the entire side by snubbing back-passes and inviting defenders to hammer the ball into the stand. At one stage he aimed a limp wrist at a comfortable cross and missed completely. New balls please.
Chambers – 5.5 – some of his forward passing was very poor today, especially when he had time to think about what he was doing. Defensively he was left sprawling at times but he has had much poorer games this season.
Wilson – 6 – solid in patches, but he was a guilty component of a back three that lacked composure all game.
Morgan – 6 – lifted spirits with another cameo in attack, but one or two mistakes in defence.
Moloney – 5.5 – missed a couple of headers and found himself stretched for most of the game.
Heath – 6 – worked exceptionally hard to stay afloat and was one of our better defenders. Struggled in points, but he is coping well.
McGugan – 7.5 – not a particularly combative effort, but he seemed to have regained his talent for the occasion. Quiet in periods, he had several magic moments with his footwork and nearly carved something from nothing three or four times.
Perch – 6.5 – some important tackles to ease pressure on the defence. Provided nothing on the ball, but played a fairly important role for most of the game.
Cohen - 7.5 – another tireless effort and some good football. I was impressed with Cohen’s breaking forward today, despite one or two frustrating moments.
Garner – 5 – just was not involved.
Tyson – 7 – his pace is a tremendous asset, but alone it is not enough.
Subs:
Newbold – 6 – the experienced defenders saw him coming from miles away. We did see his pace for the first time as he ran across field to fight a lost cause.
McCleary – 6 – I can only think of one run that caused problems.
Breckin – 6 -
