It was like an end of season game with nought to play for. Like what we used to have from February onwards in the days before the play-offs. This match will live short in the memory, a perfunctory two goal win against a side on the edge of the relegation zone. The truth is, we never really got going and were still far too much for Oxford, though I’m sure I heard their manager reckon they were the better side. Deluded.
Indeed, our manager had a bit of a go at our ‘fans’ afterwards, castigating some for having too much expectation. Wins are never easy, etc. The atmosphere was zero and I think the bench could hear the chuntering behind the dugout. Let’s hope the fans’ resignation at only making the play-offs is not contagious to the players. But fans are nothing if not greedy.
To highlight how forgettable this game was, I’ll share my most memorable moment. A clearance arched high towards the halfway line and sub Russell brought it down with a daintiness I’ve never even seen at Saddlers Wells (probably because I’ve never seen ballet at Saddler’s Wells, or, indeed, anywhere). It was an exquisite bit of skill in a nothing match.
Oh yes, we won two goals to zero, both notched by Tedic. What a difference it makes, making the run BEFORE the ball comes in, BEFORE everyone knows where it’s going. The opener, he allowed the ball to cut across his body to deflect in with his left, and the 2nd was a header. Coupled (Trebled?) with an earlier header superbly saved, he coulda been sitting on a hatrick. I’ve doubts about his all-round game, but with coaching, maybe there’s a footballer there yet.
Onwards and upwards!
*** Super Ted(ic). If the season started again, he’d be hitting 25+.
** Isted. Two super saves, one from a free kick at 0-0 and one late on.
* Phillips. We’re all about the twos this week. 2 sublime crosses from Phillips for the goals. Always liked him!
Official MOTM: Tedic
Londontykes’ MOTM: 1. Tedic 2. Phillips 3. Isted
Despatches:
Norwood looked hungry when he came on. Then again, I guess he always looks hungry, ho ho. And I’ve no doubt he would’ve added to our goals tally were he not partnered late on with that utter moron Watters. Twice we break 2 on 1 and twice Watters messes it up. Is there anything he can’t not do?
Drink du jour: A pale ale in Spiral City.
Away: 663
Today’s take home: Meh.
The Damage:
c. £30 petrol
= £30
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