Management thoughts on reaching the Challenge Cup Final.

Posted on Sunday, March 20th, 2011

Mike says –

“We knew it was going to be a difficult afternoon and when Dean Hoskins gave the penalty away in the first minute it became doubly so. The Vale were up for it and gave it their all in a game they think turned on the sending off midway through the second half. It didn’t look any worse a challenge then many others in the game but at 2-1 I thought we had gained control and would have progressed to the Final anyway. It obviously didn’t make it any easier for Robbie Horn and his boys and if I’m being critical of our lot it’s that we should have scored more on the break as the visitors took chances trying to save the tie.    

That’s us in at least two finals and this year we are thankful that they appear to be spaced about a bit better than last term. Our immediate thoughts turn to Lothian in the league on Tuesday. I think Lothian were unbeaten for 6 in a row before yesterday’s shock result but more on them tomorrow. Then of course it’s the East of Scotland final next Sunday against a Tynecastle side who will be buoyant after yesterday’s victory over Whitehill. Big games are coming thick and fast but we better get use to them as we are still in all domestic competitions this season.

Finally back to yesterday and Sam and I were annoyed with Robbie Manson for picking up a silly booking not releasing the ball hence his immediate substitution. While other players take the glory getting forward and scoring from midfield and fullback, Robbie is asked to sit in front of the defence and slow the opposing attack down while we get back our defensive shape. Although he too has goals in him he is the best at the club by a mile in that sitting position and we don’t want him missing important games near the end of the season through suspension. Let’s hope he learned a lesson.”

Mike