| Middlesbrough | Brighton | ||
| Murray | 90′ | ||
| Possession Shots On target Corners Fouls |
47% 16 3 6 5 |
Possession Shots On target Corners Fouls |
53% 11 4 5 16 |
Brighton rock blunt Boro
This was only the second time both sides had been drawn together in the cup, the prior meeting being in 1906 so I’m guessing that it’s probably safe to say there was nobody in attendance with a grudge from the previous cup encounter let alone remember it. Back then it took three games for Boro to eventually be victorious after two 1-1 draws.
Recent form indicated that this was not going to be a free scoring affair considering that Brighton had only scored six goals in their previous thirteen games, hitting blanks in nine of them. Boro on the other hand hadn’t drawn in eighteen games winning ten and losing eight of them so inevitability factored predictions were perhaps favouring that a draw was long overdue for Boro and like as not a tight low scoring one with Brighton eventually winning the replay. A draw in reality would be the last result either side wanted, there again TP was due a win at home so who knew what was about to unfold.
Team selections were rumoured to be a second string Brighton side to safeguard them for their Premiership survival being just a solitary point above the drop zone or conversely a full strength Brighton side to try and get back to winning ways. Tony Pulis takes the cup seriously and had hinted that he might make two allowances to take a look at a couple of players. When the sides were revealed TP had made three changes with Chris Hughton making seven changes. In came Fletcher, Clayton and Braithwaite for Boro but interestingly (and linking to our previous discussions on here about understanding) there were seven players in Brighton’s starting line-up that played in that infamous 1-1 Riverside draw.
The game started very cagey, something perhaps for chess aficionados to savour rather than an exciting swashbuckling cup tie. Previously during the warm up it was interesting to note a small sub plot being enacted near the East Stand with our backline taking turns to come out and challenge with the three remaining defenders drifting across covering. During the match our defence looked resolute and unruffled as Randolph had nothing of note to be concerned about in the opening 45. It is evident that there is now a very clear strategy and game plan at the back and we are almost getting back to AK levels of defending.
Brighton probed and we sat back absorbing their forays but without being under any great threat. Truth be told the game was a bit flat and resembled a pre-season warm up rather than a cup tie as both sets of players seemed to be sussing out the opposition. Fletcher was largely isolated but won his fair share of headers and seemed to have a bit of pace along with his first touch being more composed than Gestede. It wasn’t a defining moment for the player by any means but considering his isolation he done OK in a fairly thankless role.
Braithwaite is a bit of a conundrum for me, he pops up in the right places for nicking the odd goal but when in possession I am never convinced that he will hang onto it and worse that he is likely to give the ball away sloppily. Playing behind Fletcher in the No.10 role today he did nothing of note to dispel those fears. He was involved in a lot of the passages of play but never really influenced anything. Clayton started the game well but I suspect tired a little near the end but was busy buzzing around filling in for Grant. My guess is that TP sees him as a solid midfield terrier and will want to retain his services taking one for the team Grant style as Brighton broke out near the end of the first half.
Bamford was deployed wide left which in fairness I don’t think is his strongest position but he got back and defended well and also went looking for the ball when in possession. A few flicks and tricks didn’t come off but he seemed to be a little more settled and composed and playing himself back into confidence and much more of a team player to the detriment of his attacking instinct at times. Adama on the opposite flank was literally terrorising Suttner so Hughton instructed his charges to double up on him. It didn’t make much difference as whether it is two or four defenders Adama is happy to take them all on. His runs had the fans out of their seats and hopefully BBC and their MOTD programme tonight don’t highlight too much of Traore’s pace and skill alerting Premiership (and Continental) clubs.
Knockaert was Brighton’s main threat and Hemed was proving a bit useful early on but we never even remotely looked threatened or had cause for anxiety. It was all very controlled and disciplined from Boro and Brighton had nothing to unlock our two banks of defence especially with one nervous distracted eye on Traore. Therein lay the root cause of Boro’s striking malaise, we looked indifferent and lacking ideas apart from feeding Adama, wind him up and watch him go. As an indication of just how surreal the atmosphere was a round of applause for Grant and Stewy warming up was the loudest the South and North Stands mustered in the first half. I found pleasure in watching the defensive organisation in the Boro side but offensively Braithwaite produced little and Fletcher was feeding off scraps as he put in a willing, chasing and closing from the front type of performance.
The half time whistle went and a polite appreciative round of applause rippled around in a strangely subdued stadium which saw Boro look the better side but limited to a few threats on goal from an Ayala header from a corner which was straight at Krul and an Adama shot which forced the ex-Geordie stopper to dive to his left pushing the effort onto the post. Brighton started the second half by bringing on Propper replacing Dale Stephens (he of Gashed Shin fame) who didn’t finish his last Riverside sojourn either.
As seems to be typical of the new Boro Manager he made a double switch after ten minutes into the second half in an effort to make an impact in the game. It was at this point that although the Subs themselves made sense the methodology afterwards handed Brighton the initiative and Boro went from looking comfortable and composed to getting embroiled in a scrappy messy game. Downing came on for the ineffective Braithwaite and Britt for Fletcher who in fairness could consider himself unlucky as he had a fairly thankless task chasing his own knock downs. Downing was put on the right with Traore moved to his weaker (much) left with Paddy moved centrally. Personally I would have put Downing centrally and left Bamford where he was along with Traore who had teased the heart and soul out of Brighton’s left hand side.
There was some merit in the logic of the switch around with both Stewy and Adama cutting in on their favoured foot but Brighton seemed to be able to impose themselves after the double substitution in a game that up until that point they had looked decidedly Championship standard at best. Adama continued to trouble the Seagulls albeit less frequently encouraging Baldock into a hefty challenge which earned him a yellow for his troubles. At the other end Randolph who had been largely unemployed was now suddenly being questioned and a fumbled save saw the ROI Keeper collide with the up until then lively Skalak with both needing treatment and Dimi warming up. As it happens Randolph recovered but Brighton were forced into bringing on Izqueirdo for Skalak which in hindsight worked well in Brighton’s favour. A few moments later Ayala challenged for a header that went well wide of the Brighton goal in an effort to take the lead but he seemed to land awkwardly in a stretched sliding motion. Minutes after Dani was laid out apparently with what looked like a groin strain as the physios called time on his afternoon forcing TP into his final sub as young Dael Fry came on to cheers of “Tee, Tee, Teessider”
As the game ebbed and flowed Propper was booked this time for clattering Adama. Hughton decided to try and avoid a replay by throwing on the artful dodger himself (allegedly) Glenn Murray for Hemed who had all but disappeared at this stage of the game. The game was concluding in exactly what neither Manager had wanted a draw! Thoughts were focussing on the Amex and how schedules would permit a replay when Izqueirdo crossed, George cleared only to see it ricochet off the chest of the incoming Murray to fluke a Brighton winner in injury time.
For me a draw would have been a pain and I much preferred for the game to be settled as a contest today which ultimately it was. Disappointing definitely, unfortunate even but as Ayala’s injury highlighted it was a contest that like the winner itself deflected from the main Boro objective of making the Play Offs. Whilst I am sure the Brighton fans will have travelled south in far better spirits than their last visit here I am also sure that a few of them will also be questioning the distraction of a cup run when they are embroiled in a relegation dog fight. Hughton’s last throw of the dice had worked and fair play to him as they go into the draw for the next round.
MOM for Boro had to be Adama but Clayton looked solid and dependable and I thought that both Friend and Shotton had good games. Howson was again making things tick but our front line hasn’t clicked all season. I think TP now has to stick with one of his Strikers and the chosen three behind him of which Stewy and Traore have to be nailed on in an effort to build up the intuitive understanding that his back line have demonstrated of late. Another home defeat but it feels more like another step forwards strangely despite the obvious shortcomings in some areas of the pitch. Meanwhile we have to sweat on the extent of our recent and unexpected talismanic net finder, Dani Ayala.
Boro supporters dreaming of Wembley
– albeit in the Play-off final
Boro welcome Brighton to the Riverside as they look to overcome top-flight opposition in the FA Cup and enter the hat for the last sixteen. Should Tony Pulis guide his promotion hopefuls through the tie and see off Chris Hughton’s newly promoted team, we could then be potentially only two more wins from Wembley – even less if Boro are drawn away to Spurs. However, the fans of Tottenham must surely have by now grown tired of singing Chas n’ Dave’s 80s anthem ‘Spurs are on their way to Wembley’ as they head to every home game, perhaps just the odd attention-seeking 47-year old pet-food salesman that still lives alone with his parents in north London continues to enthusiastically chant it. Though the lack of media excitement on Teesside over the forthcoming fixture has probably meant the only trip to Wembley that Boro fans are actually dreaming of is the Play-off final.
In a way the FA Cup has come at the wrong time for Tony Pulis, as last week’s display at QPR saw his team put in probably their best team performance of the season. Instead, the manager is left to ponder on whether to make changes with one eye on Tuesday evening’s Championship fixture – although he previously picked a strong line-up for the last round against a poor Sunderland team, there was no midweek game to follow after that encounter. Perhaps he’ll still go with his favoured back-four and possibly give Clayton a start instead of Leadbitter. I’m sure the supporters will be looking forward to see whether Adama can add to his first Boro goal but maybe the manager won’t want to risk a headline-making performance against Premier League opposition while the transfer window is still open. Questions have yet to be answered once we get up front and personal, with most of Boro’s strikers still having something to prove under Pulis, though it’s not entirely clear which of them will have long-term futures beyond January.
Despite the draw of the Cup, Seagulls followers making the the long trawl up from the south coast in search of scraps of comfort are unlikely to be packed like sardines in the away end at the Riverside. Brighton have only won one of their last dozen games and that was the 1-0 victory against bottom of the form table Watford, who haven’t exactly been buzzing since Marco Silva was left chewing over the public approach by the Toffees that eventually stirred the Hornets hierarchy into action this week as he was dismissed. The Albion’s only other points in these games were from three goalless draws and a 2-2 against fellow strugglers Bournemouth – in fact the Seagulls have only scored in three of those last 12 games, all of them at home.
Apart from top scorer Glen Murray, their strikers appear to lack conviction – though perhaps the player who scored a late winner against Palace in the third round won’t be taxing the Boro defence and evading his marker on Saturday after he was arrested this week for an alleged £1.1m tax fraud following an investigation by HMRC. It’s possible that Chris Hughton’s new £14m signing from PSV, Jurgen Locadia, will get a chance to add to his 62 goals (albeit over six seasons) that he has accumulated in the Dutch league. Before Boro supporters start to get too concerned I should add the magic calming words ‘Afonso Alves’, who bagged as many league goals in Holland in his last two seasons as Locadia has managed in six – who after discovering the barn doors in England were trickier to hit subsequently hung up his banjo and headed for pastures new.
| Middlesbrough | Brighton | ||
| Tony Pulis | Chris Hughton | ||
| Last 12 Games QPR (A) Fulham (H) Preston (A) Aston Villa (H) Bolton (H) Sheff Wed (A) Millwall (A) Ipswich (H) Bristol City (A) Derby (H) Birmingham (H) Leeds (A) |
F-T (H-T) 3:0 (2:0) W 0:1 (0:0) L 3:2 (1:2) W 0:1 (0:0) L 2:0 (0:0) W 2:1 (0:1) W 1:2 (0:2) L 2:0 (1:0) W 1:2 (0:0) L 0:3 (0:1) L 2:0 (2:0) W 1:2 (0:1) L |
Last 12 Games Chelsea (H) West Brom (A) Bournemouth (H) Newcastle (A) Chelsea (A) Watford (H) Burnley (H) Tottenham (A) Huddersfield (A) Liverpool (H) Crystal Palace (H) Man Utd (A) |
F-T (H-T) 0:4 (0:2) L 0:2 (0:1) L 2:2 (1:1) D 0:0 (0:0) D 0:2 (0:0) L 1:0 (0:0) W 0:0 (0:0) D 0:2 (0:1) L 0:2 (0:2) L 1:5 (0:2) L 0:0 (0:0) D 0:1 (0:0) L |
Tony Pulis appears to be deferring a decision with regard to any potential incoming players until he sorted out departures, which has left some supporters impatiently waiting for announcements. It’s possible that there may be valid reasons for the lack of news – for example, it was suggested this week that the delay in the long-awaited transfer of Alexis Sanchez to Old Trafford was seemingly caused by the Arsenal player needing to practice his rendition of ‘Glory Glory Man United’ on the piano – the expectation is that this new trend in unveiling videos may now catch on in the same way goal celebrations have. Many are already anticipating a Lewis Grabban’s version of “You are my Boro, my only Boro” as his piano is wheeled out of the player’s tunnel at the Riverside on deadline day. However our own particular budget restrictions may only see a Les Dawson style performance on the ivories with a wincing Neil Bausor sheepishly appearing from behind the piano lid before he attempts his trademark smile to seal he deal.
Indeed, Fletcher’s loan move to Sunderland has possibly been held up after his proposed rendition of ‘We are the Champions’ on the kazoo for his unveiling video has been vetoed by the Wearsider’s hierarchy on the grounds it came across as just way too sarcastic. Though it was initially unclear whether the cash-struck club could actually stretch to a kazoo and his offer to perform on the tissue and comb was also dismissed as appearing unnecessarily cheap. Both clubs are still hoping a compromise can be reached, plus as we speak, the Boro bench-warmer has almost perfected an acapella version of ‘Going down with the Brummies’ with Marvin Johnson accompanying him on the penny whistle in the hope that a double deal can be hammered out. Fingers crossed, though I suspect that they may have now gone too far in the other direction and it’s possible a back-up tune may be needed – perhaps ‘The only way is up now’ may strike the right note to the severely depressed at the Stadium of Light.
Another player facing overtures for his services is Adam Clayton and it has been rumoured that Leeds may be showing an interest in adding to their collection of Boro midfielders – Whether the under-employed fans favourite will be contemplating kissing another badge anytime soon might depend on whether he can envisage puckering up to the crest-fallen design that the Mighty Whites have unveiled for next season’s centenary shirt. For those not familiar with this particular work of art, it depicts a headless torso in a short-sleeve shirt with the muscular right arm forming a fist over the chest. Although the lack of tattoos on the arm of the man in the badge may not be a deal breaker for the Boro hipster, some reviewers have labelled it Soviet-style imagery or pseudo-fascist in appearance.
Whilst the view from the glass houses of stone-wielding Boro badge apologists is somewhat subjective, perhaps the death knell was rung on this West Yorkshire embodiment of burning passion when someone unkindly likened the new crest to the pose of the Gavascon man suffering from indigestion – which has now culminated in over 50,000 supporters signing a petition to block its introduction. All of this badgering by disgruntled Leeds supporters has resulted in the design process being revisited – overturning the view of apparently 10,000 random punters who previously approved the design in the initial consultation, some of whom may even have been still sober when they gave their affirmation at the seemingly out-of-focus group. In addition, the accompanying incongruent marketing strapline of ‘Celebrating fans at the heart of our community’ could easily be replaced with ‘A hundred years of punching your neighbour on the left’ and still make better sense.
Another player who may soon no longer be bringing home the bacon at Boro is the Danish international Martin Braithwaite, who cost the club £9m in the summer. Despite putting in less than sizzling displays of late, he’s generating interest in France with Bordeaux hoping that he’ll return to the vintage form that he showed last season in Toulouse – whether Boro will want to lose a player that has shown he can on occasion be a match winner is uncertain. Although Braithwaite has not so far been a player to catch the eye of Tony Pulis, it may provide an opportunity to generate cash and redistribute these significant resources elsewhere before the transfer window closes. The unknown factor is if the 26-year old will be willing to contemplate a fringe role at Boro as he hopes to win a place in Denmark’s World Cup squad.
On paper, I may be tempted to put Boro as slight favourites to beat Brighton on Saturday as the opposition have been struggling to score goals and may be missing their value added top scorer in Glen Murray. In addition, the Seagulls sit just one point outside the relegation zone and face third bottom Southampton in a crucial south-coast derby on Wednesday. It wouldn’t be a surprise to see Chris Hughton rest some key players and we know that the depth of squads for newly promoted teams is not that of the bigger more established clubs. Much will depend on whether Tony Pulis believes in the importance of the game or if he too only has eyes for Wednesday – albeit Sheffield on Tuesday.
So will Boro be harbouring thoughts of Cup glory as Tony Pulis pushes the boat out against Brighton? Or will the Seagulls swoop down on the Riverside and give us a nasty tern as they steal our catch for the next round? As usual your predictions on score, scorers and team selection – plus will we hear an unidentifiable tune from a practicing mystery signing emanating from deep within the Riverside?
Another brilliant piece Werder.
Unusually for me, I’m expecting a win tomorrow.
That’ll be 0-1 then as Brighton reserves shock a near full strength Boro.
Thanks Steely – though I hope your double-bluff prediction works out the right way!
👀
I like it Werder. I like it very much.
Brighton, of course, bring back two of my happiest memories of AKBoro’s tenure. The dismantling of the then-unbeaten Seagulls at their place, and, of course, promotion.
And to those who keep arguing that “we scraped it”, I’ve lost count of how many club or country triumphs went to the last minute. (Michael Thomas at Anfield, Sergio Aguero, United in the Nou Camp in ’99, Blackburn’s title triumph in ’95…)
What matters is, you know, we did it.
Believe me, no fan in Ireland cared that Ireland scraped their way into USA 94 on goals scored after that night in Windsor Park. The celebrations of relief at having survived a potentially dangerous test, and joy at having actually gotten over the line, were for the ages.
Sadly, as Cissie Charlton implies, it’s the “bad” that tends to endure, or stain a manager or player’s achievements.
Not without reason, admittedly. The bad can’t be ignored. But we shouldn’t forget the good either, because there’s a lot to build on from it.
Thanks Simon – I was at the 0-0 against Brighton the season before that saw us finish fourth in the play-offs, which ultimately saw us lose at Wembley against Norwich.
I see this as another match in our progression, we have too few home wins not to take this seriously.
As several ex players have said, a bad result affects the squad.
An example from the NFL. Under Peyton Manning the Colts were having a great season, home field advantage in the play offs assured it was deemed time to rest key players for the last game of the season. As they were first seeds they also missed the wild card game so had a total of three weeks off.
In the next match they lost to someone who sneaked in to the play offs but had played two games whilst the Colts rested. The key players didn’t gel at all.
By all means play Clayton for Grant, maybe Christie for Shotton but no wholesale changes.
OFB’s eyes in the sky are there as an omen but Boro will win if they show some attacking intent.
Boro 2 – 0 Brighton. What have I done.
UTB,
John
Werder,
An apology for not mentioning a greater lead article, I’m ashamed to say I’m beginning to take them for granted, Simon, OFB, RR.
I’ll go and stand in the corner now.
UTB,
John
Ah! But remember your input in the responses to the posts!
It’s a 2 way thing isn’t it ?
I would love to see a piece from you John! I’m sure Werder and everyone else would too.
Your comments on the articles are always appreciated John so no apologies needed!
Werder, OFB, Simon,
I have a hard enough time doing my five times a week blog on life in West Norfolk, fishing, Terriers, printmaking, bread making etc., I’ll brood on an off the wall one.
UTB,
John
I’ll look forward to that – at least you have two spare days a week 🙂
Werder,
In the words of Untypical.
Bugger!
UTB,
John
I’m an avid reader Jarsue. I love your artwork.
Martin,
Many thanks for your kind comment.
UTB,
John
Thanks Werder love your leaders and this blog. Has got to be the best out there, the writers who input their views are the most informative around. Long may reign so I and everybody else enjoy it for years to come. UTB
You’re right tell your friends how good it is and to join us
OFB I do but a lot just read the red tops and like dustbins take all the rubbish in. But I will be still plugging away to convert them. UTB
Glad you enjoy the articles and all the informative comments Borobrie, much appreciated.
Werder
Quote “ perhaps just the odd attention-seeking 47-year old pet-food salesman that still lives alone with his parents in north London continues to enthusiastically chant it. “ unquote
Where did that come from !
You should start writing for Royston Vasey The league of Gentlemen it’s their humour !
Absolutely brilliant thank you
I’m seeing the real Royston Vasey tonight (chubby Brown ) who’s performing at the Forum Billingham amd afterwards agreed to do an In2Views .
Fingers crossed
OFB
OFB,
Now that will be an interesting one!
UTB,
John
Hopefully ?
I’ve been in touch with all the people who have been suggested on the blog
It’s John Hickton at the Riverside tomorrow looking forward to talking to him
I hear Tony MacAndrew has moved back to the Boro. Another one for your list Bob?
THanks I’ll check him out
Thanks OFB, it comes from the dark recesses of my mind 🙂 It’s actually a long time since I watched League of Gentlemen, I’ll have to look out for it again – look forward to the in2views piece – the printable bits…
I think the Chubby Brown In2Views will be a bit on the short side, after the edit.
There is only one joke I could repeat !
Boro Rollers 2 Brighton Rockers 0
Grovehillwallah,
Surely Boro Mods?
UTB,
John
Just as an aside Werder. Afonso Alves had a better scoring record in Holland than Ronaldo, Van Nistelrooy and Suarez.
I’m sure the club could have coached the goals out of those three too if we’d got them early enough 🙂 I did think Alves was going to be the real deal but his confidence just got shot. Though I remember when he scored a hat-trick in the 8-1 win over Sven’s Man City as he was my Fantasy Football captain in a team that included Downing as I finished that week 17th out of 2m entrants!
All poachers are confidence players, it would seem. For the Eurocrats who demand that their players deliver something week after week, that’s deadly.
When Andy Cole signed for United, he was a goalscorer.. Two and a half years later he was a footballer.
Crackin piece Werder, you just get better and better!
Boro 3 Brighton 0, first will be an own goal from a howitzer throw in, bouncing in off a defenders bum. Second a Stewie worldy as he chips in from the half way line and finally the inevitable bullet header from Dani, 20 yards out………….
‘We’re all going to Wembley, we’re all going to Wembley……’
Nigel
I’ll have a glass of what you’re drinking !
Many thanks Nigel – though I’m sure they won’t always get better…
Nigel
Unforgivable, you have forgotten our new goal glutton Traore.
Who can stop him? Give him the ball five yards outside the box, on the run, a couple of stooges in the way, no sweat, finish by dribbling the keeper, and bob’s your uncle. What can possibly go wrong?
What’s the saying? Every dog has his day…? #AfonsoAlves
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZBwua_Ho90w
“Goal Machine”. Lol!
Thanks for another great read Werder.
I read you leader and RR’s reports with envy at the way in which you can both make the written word amusing and insightful.
Three changes for me tomorrow, in come Dimi, Clayton and Fletcher. Onto the bench go Randolph, Leadbitter and Bamford.
Boro 0-0 Brighton
Crowd 23,332
CoB 😎
Cheers KP, I can’t speak for RR but the ideas tends to appear spontaneously as I personally don’t how I’m going to write the next piece, though weaving it all together is the tricky part. As for you prediction, 0-0 is not bad bet given Brighton rarely score and generally don’t concede many outside games against the top clubs.
Nice one, Werder. Really enjoyed it.
Not much bothered what the score is tomorrow, as long as it’ a reasonably entertaining game.
Brighton have only scored six goals in their previous thirteen games, hitting blanks in nine of them. We know first hand that a team struggling at the bottom of the Prem suffers badly with confidence issues not to mention the ongoing attrition of mental and physical fatigue. Getting mullered and stretched all over every week isn’t fun and takes its toll.
Apparently we haven’t had a draw now for eighteen games, winning ten and losing eight of them. So is a draw now inevitable as was the case the last time these two sides met in the Cup in 1906? I’m with Len on the game tomorrow in not being too bothered just so long as its entertaining.
19,342 watching and 2-1 to Boro.
Meant to add top read, entertaining as ever Werder!
Thanks RR, just warming up the audience for your match report 🙂
Thanks Len, glad you enjoyed it – btw I’ve just been catching up on comments from the previous blog after working on my preview and thought your post in reply to Simon’s article was an excellent insightful comment. I’d agree with the observation that we saw far more highly educated coaches arriving in England from the continent – it perhaps moved the concept along that to succeed it was simply enough to appoint an ex-pro who lead by example that could give a good motivational speech and also spot a decent player.
Thanks Werder. A lovely read to warm us up for the cup on Saturday.
I’m in the camp that the cup is there to be won and it just might as well be us. So, only a few changes if absolutely necessary yo manage the team for Tuesday please.
I fancy us to bring the seagulls back down to earth in a competitive fixture. 2-1 to us in front of 21,432 (including 534 visitors).
Cheers Powmill, I think clubs outside the elite Champions League seekers should always take cup competitions seriously as some years they might just get you to a semi or even final given a bit of luck in the draw or on the pitch – otherwise it’s down to just accepting the grind of the league, whether it be avoiding relegation from the top-flight or trying to get back into it.
I absolutely want us to win.
However if we are unable to, then the least I would expect is a committed and organised team performance for the full ninety minutes.
A three two thriller to us.
Also, thank you to the kind words following my comment on Simon’s excellent previous post.
If any lurkers wish to show their appreciation to RR, Werder, OFB and Si, the best way to do it is to join in the conversation.
Enjoyed your comment on the previous blog about the benefit of developing partnerships on the pitch – I think Pulis may be more in this mould than thinking any squad member should be able to slot into any particular role – indeed I’d agree with your point that the Gestede-Adama cameo partnership looked to cause the opposition more problems than any other we’ve seen this season.
Thank you. I considered developing on the central theme, but it was late and I may have been enjoying a nightcap.
I hadn’t intended to write quite so much and by the time I finished, I was just pleased it seemed to make sense.
Another great starter for 10 Weder! Just up to the rest of us to come up with the follow ups. Sadly my comments are woefully lacking in quality.
I hope that TP plays a strong team albeit with an eye on Tuesday to knock the Seagulls of their perch. As others have said, a win keeps morale up in the team and the momentum.
So I am going to hope that Boro can ruffle a few feathers, clip the wings of the annoying Seagulls and wing it for a 2 0 victory rather the opposition flying down and pinching our ice creams!
Tuesday is more important – I have my ticket for that one (midweek games are easier for me even though it involves a late night/early morning) to see an improved performance from Boro.
Finally, I don’t think there will be any incoming players and maybe only a couple of further departures from fringe players. TP seems to know what his first choice team is and how to get the best from them so better not to rock the boat too much I feel.
Thanks BBD, I’m universally challenged each week and enjoy reading your comments too!
And thanks to Simon for the earlier interesting article, lack of time prevented any meaningful comments but very thought provoking as always.
Allegedly……
http://liveonsat.com/los.soc_br_uk_irish_CUP.php
Wow Thanks GWH – will check that out on the TV itself to see if that is true
Just as an aside, I briefly dozed off watching the BBC news channel late this afternoon (I always get sleeping attacks between 4-5pm for some reason) – when I woke up David Davis was stood in front of a shipping container and was just finishing a speech about Brexit that said ‘live from Middlesbrough’ and he then took questions from the audience – the first question was from a Mr Steve Gibson (yes our chairman) who after apologising for the cold weather asked whether he’d considered making Teesport a free port after Brexit. David Davis replied by saying his mother was from near Tyneside and used to swim in the North Sea in winter so he didn’t mind the cold – although he didn’t expand on whether this occurred whilst she was carrying him in pregnancy as it may explain a few things given how the blood supply reacts to the cold. Anyway, this was all very surreal and I at first wondered if I was actually dreaming but it did indeed happen. Sadly no questions from the Gazette but I’m sure we’ll hear what they would have asked…
A chance to see Lewis Wing on loan at Yeovil tonight, up against Man U in the Cup.
The questions the Gazette boys DID ask.
Do I have to pay or can I use my press pass?
Do I still get free scran?
Anyway, I have been busy this afternoon so my belated congrats to Werder, I do have a real chuckle when I read the lead articles but all the contributions are great from RR, OFB and Simon. Then there are the responses from the ljkes of Len, Ken, et al.
The problem is that there are so many good posts and discussions it is awful not to mention everyone from Finland to Oz.
The only thing we are lacking is a proper, professional blog with irritating pop ups, adverts, videos that keep repeating themselves, The lead articles could be split down in to five separate bites with multiple opportunities for spam and interruptions.
A case of this is what you could have had.
Well done Werder another gem.
” When the seagulls follow the trawler, it is because they think sardines will be thrown into the sea ”
Sorry seagulls no scraps from the Boro today 2-0.
I’ll be glad when this transfer window is over as all the speculation is really boring, but I suppose it gives newspaper columnists and reporters something to write about. It would please me if transfers were only allowed in the off season so that we can concentrate on actual matches.
Anyway, let’s concentrate on what is the oldest Cup competition in the World, in fact 20 years before the introduction of the Football League. I’m with AV on the importance of the FA Cup. In 50 years time no one will remember which year Boro were promoted to the Premier League, but an FA Cup Final win will always be recorded in the annals of time. I can’t understand why any club doesn’t take the FA Cup seriously. The whole point of participating in a competition is to win it.
Only once have Boro been in contention of winning the First Division of the Football League; that was in the 1974/75 season when they finished 7th but only five points behind Champions Derby County in Jack Charlton’s second season of managership. If Boro had won their last five matches, which included a home game against Derby, they would have been Champions – a point ahead of Derby. Boro lost their chance in that season, and in my opinion they will never win the Premier League title in the future.
However, Boro have twice been beaten Semifinalalists and once beaten Finalists in the FA Cup since 1997. The last Championship club to reach the FA Cup Final was Millwall in 2004 and the last Premier League club to win the FA Cup and be relegated in the same season was Wigan Athletic as recent as 2013. It is not impossible for a Championship club to win the Cup this season, so why not Boro? I would like Boro to be promoted this season, but if I had to choose that or an FA Cup Final win I would take the latter.
Okay. Favourite FA Cup intro of recent years?
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vs-5jSD0sek
Still don’t know why ITV ditched it for something more rock oriented. They were on to a winner here. With Nessun Dorma being the first football-associated theme I remember, I’ve since felt opera/classical/choral and football can be a great match. See also: Jerusalem for Euro 96, Pavane for France 98, Bocelli’s Canto Della Terra for Euro 2000, Natasha Marsh’s rendition of Queen Of The Night for Euro 2008. Depends on the tournament, though… The Vengaboys’ “Brazil, Brazil” worked very well in 2014. If it’s catchy, memorable and/or sends warm feelings rushing through you, it’s worked. Simple as that.
Anyways. Getting sidetracked. Been looking at second tier FA Cup winners and the last was West Ham, beating Arsenal with an early Trevor Brooking goal.
Nine days later, I was born.
Bordeaux….Vintage….
Nobody in the love in spotted that little beauty.
2-0 Boro and hopefully Baker to start, star and stay!
I was talking to Colin Cooper a few weeks ago and he is really surprised that Baker hasn’t played more games for the Boro
Colin is coach for England 23 and last summer Baker was the star of the European tournament for England
Let’s wait and see what happens tomorrow Pulis has said he is going to play 3 players tomorrow who haven’t yet played for him
Yes surely he’s a rare breed of offensive creative and goal scoring midfielder we’ve been looking for?!?!
Classic FA Cup tie of the day.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=98qgkTPIcLU
So close, yet so far.
SUNDERLAND’S search for a goalkeeper has taken them to Middlesbrough after showing an interest in Dimi Konstantopoulos. (Northern Echo)
The Super bowl is played at a different venue each season,maybe the insentive for the fa cup should be the same, imagine a visit to The Bernaubue Stadium for the final.or the Rose Bowl.
A win 2-1 tomorrow, I’ve told Brit to watch Brian Glover’s penalty in Kes ,and maybe a wink wink last. Minute winner.
Young Lewis Wing didn’t have much chance to shine tonight,Man U had the ball all game and he was told to play as a defensive midfielder very deep.
Thanks Werder for a great Saturday morning read – my routine in the footy season starts off on the blog with a cup of Loyds English Tea black no sugar,.
Thanks to GHW this morning who is a star in our opinion out here in the desert, yes indeed the match is on the telly this afternoon which will make quite a few of us happy. We now have to get the mascots out and iron the tee shirts and get the beers in. Sadly its too cold to sit in the pool to watch it so no scantily clad hostesses/waitresses for us gentlemen this weekend.
You have to wonder why Bein are covering this as it would not be a must watch game for the most of the international set, but then I remember Kates photo on OFB interview and if she is still at Bein and if she did have something to do with it then thanks Kate – we are very grateful. Any time you are in Bahrain you can have a free pass [with beverage] to the Boro clubhouse in Adliyah.
On a more pragmatic note I think Brighton will be up for this to bring light to their otherwise drab and gloomy season. It wouldn’t surprise me to see them come out fighting. We have to prepare for counter attack and get the opening shocker then the seagulls will fly away home wondering why, as Paul Rodgers used to sing.
So tough call, but the boys at the back will be up for the challenge so I think clean sheet for us and a sneaky goal to see us through.
We’re on our wembley . . .
Allan
Do you know what channel it‘s on? Hopefully might catch it over here in Tabuk.
Bein channel 7hd
I know what it’s like scratching around trying to find the game from my own time in Khobar.
Separately if you have a VPN and can access the BBC iPlayer check this out……
http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b09m53py
Jonathon Taylor’s grammar is appalling. I wish AV, having had more journalistic experience, would have a discreet word with him.
If Jonhos grammar is appalling I wonder what his grandad is like ?
OFB,
The old ones are the best ones.
UTB,
John
After my self serving reply to Allan, a big thumbs up Werder for your latest preamble.
I see TP has said he will be making a couple of changes but will put out a strong side. As someone who still thinks the FA cup is special I want us to progress and if we can do that and be involved in some exciting ties on the way all the better.
If I can’t get the game on the telly there’s Mark and Maddo on Tees as back up.
2-1 Boro.
A slight diversion before I dive into the comments above which I have not yet read……
To accompany tonight’s haggis, neeps and tatties, after I return from the Boro v Brighton FA Cup extravaganza, I have decided to choose between those single malts where I am “doubled-up”. In other words, if I drink a bottle, I have spares so will not be left destitute of that particular whisky.
I will listen to suggestions, taking into account comments and volume. The choice is between:
@The_Macallan 10 yr old
@TheGlenmorangie The Original 10 yr old
@TaliskerWhisky 10 yr old
@Bunnahabhain 12 yr old
@Glenfiiddich SMW 12 yr old Signature Malt (or, slightly left field)
@PenderynWhisky Aur Cymru.
Which will it be?
MacAllan for me my favourite
Talisker for me.
Forever Dormo,
Bunnahabhain forme. rapidly followed by the rest…
UTB,
John
Has to be the MacAllan
Forever
Not sure which to suggest but, as you appear to be overloaded with the stuff, I’m sure a few of the regulars on here would help you reduce your stock.
I wouldn’t wish to place that heavy burden on them……..
Sorry but I had a very busy day yesterday. I have only just had the opportunity to read the opener by Werdermouth (good to see the quality is being kept up!) and the comments made by posters in reply. It’s all a good read and makes reading the Blog a pleasant and informative way to spend time.
I have now to go back and have a look at some of the links to videos etc. But I will be at the Riverside so no need this afternoon to watch the match on the interwebby.
Lingdale’s…
I liked “Toulouse…to lose”. But there’s so many lovely touches that Werder’s material is always worth a second slower and more careful reading to pick up on the details that might have passed you by the first time around.
Just back from the weekly shop and hoping to find some kind of internet feed today – thankfully my laptop is now running much quicker after I doubled the memory by adding another 4GB of RAM this morning.
Please skip this para if your eyes are already glazing over…
I discovered that Windows 10 uses 2GB on its own an then once you’ve opened 4 or 5 tabs in your browser that’s normally over 1GB and then with a few other apps running your system starts slowing down. Though it was a far trickier operation than normal, as for some reason best known to the manufacturer, in order to get to the memory slot it involved removing a central screw on the bottom, then carefully removing the keyboard (again not easy), removing a further three screws that were under the keyboard with one hidden under a warranty sticker, then finally removing six more screws on the bottom. It’s almost as if the manufacturer wanted you to buy a new laptop instead! Incidentally, the 4GB of memory cost just €35.
Anyway, back to football – it will be interesting to see who gets a game today as Pulis as hinted he may want to look at a few players, which could mean Clayton, Guedioura, Baker, Fry, Christie, Johnston and Fletcher are in with a shout – but I’d be surprised if there were too many changes as it also sounds as if the Boro manager is a fan of the FA Cup.
Once again many thanks for the continued comments on the match preview, they are much appreciated – plus I see some have spotted a few of the more subtle word plays – so further thanks to Ian, Michael, LindalesFinest, Allan, FAA and Dormo.
Werdermouth
You’re a marvel, although I haven’t a clue what you’re talking about with all this 4GB of RAM. I’m a complete novice when it comes to computer technology, in fact I’m a virgin. Funny that, cause when in the UK I’m a Virgin subscriber.
Hi Werder , thank you again for a great read. Have to say you are top of the Boro world.
Fond memories of Brighton & Hove Albion; A visit to the Goldstone circa 1990 and a Bernie hat-trick in a 4-2 win.. A trip to the Amex a few years back and a 1 nil win.. and of course a certain 1 all draw in the not too distant past, must be said the Brighton fans were immaculate each time, a real pleasure…
Today: 3-2 Boro. Brit hat-trick!
23,789 in attendance.. UTB..
TP has gone for a strong team I see. Not sure about Fletcher though.
UTB
A great read as ever. Thanks everyone.
Interesting team. Clayton gets a start and Gestede gets a full weekend off. I wonder how the front four of Traore, Braithwaite, Bamford and Fletcher will line up. The game isn’t on BeIn here in Oz although it may be on Bet365 website. However, I can’t last til 2.00 am and am calling it a night. I’ll try and catch a replay.
Good luck to everyone
UTB
live stream http://tvtoss.net/pages/player.php?ch_id=315086706&ctd=1&t=Sports Channels
Thanks Pedro much appreciated. Watching via Lap top with commentary from BBC Tees.
0-0.
Do we want a replay? Not really but we cant keep getting mugged one nil at home, we cant keep not working the keeper.
Let me correct that, we don’t want to keep getting mugged, it is proving a real problem to our league hopes.
Mugged again Ian………its a re-occurring theme now, one that TP does not appear to be able to stop.
MuggingsRus.
Just to heap misery on misery, Wolves, Norwich and Bristol all winning, Fulham drawing.
A tail of bird luck for Boro against Seagulls, but the stork truth is, we’re flaps at home and must prey our wing men can fly us higher in the league.
What a grotty game that was.
Positives :
No midweek replay
Concentrate on the league
Traore on the half way line when we defended a corner, finally an out ball.
Negatives:
Out of the cup for another year.
Fletcher really can’t cut it at this level.
Bamford looked of the pace.
And the worst of all, on 52 minutes we had a free kick midway in Brighton’ s half.
Clayton was over it and guess what happened, he passed it back.
Hope you read this Adam, free kicks go forward from that position, not back. I am sure TP is trying to get this through to you all. my only surprise is that you were not hooked.
Brighton outplayed us in the last 20 minutes as certain players went missing.
Come on Tony, get them playing for 95 minutes, the job isn’t done after 85.
Bamford isn’t a left-winger. I’m baffled he isn’t being played in his best position.
After games like this I spare a thought for RR.
If I was reporting it would be:
When to riverside, watched a load of crap, Boro got Beat again, last minute goal, came home, had a stiff drink, nothing more to add.
You must have to dig deep RR and we all appreciate it.
Murray’s goal was as fortunate as it was inevitable. Always admired his attributes but today he had luck on his side. HMRC should have retained him indefinitely.
Well, the double bluff didn’t work, so no more predictions from me.
TP home record – played 4 lost 3, won 1. The win was against Sunderland. The losses have all been 0-1.
Well apart from the result had an interesting day.
Did my In2Views with John Hickton had a long chat with David Mills who is the chief scout for Leicester City. (He wouldn’t say who he was watching but we can guess!) David has agreed to do an In2Views as well.
Then had a long chat with Doug Wetherall who was the chief football writer for the Daily Mail for 40 Years. He is going to do an In2Views for us as well.
What was also interesting was that Charlie Wyke was wandering around near the Directors box . He didn’t appear to be interested aren’t we supposed to be looking at signing him back?
Like us, TP is frustrated that the mono paced sideways football is still happening. As I said two weeks ago, we have an abundance of non scoring forwards. They’ve got to get into the box quicker and be more clinical. What’s the point of improving Traore if they’re unable to take advantage?
Well that was pretty much the story of many a home game recently – falling to a late sucker punch to a team that was very ordinary to say the least. The Seagulls played like a team who won’t be carrying the moniker ‘top-flight’ for too much longer – they were desperately bad and have seen far better mid-table Championship sides visit the Riverside this season.
Boro’s story today was really about the millions squandered on forwards who don’t seem to be any better than a random purchase for a quarter of the fee – Fletcher, Braithwaite, Bamford and Assombalonga didn’t look like scoring at any point – the only thing I would say is that Britt is looking a little better at holding the ball since Pulis arrived. Bamford was the epitome of what Alex Baptiste claimed in an interview – i.e. what he tried in training rarely came off – that was Paddy today.
Adama looked dangerous again, especially in the first half, but never reached the same heights on the left in the second half – Is Pulis doing a Karanka with him and keeping him dugout side? I guess the biggest winner was Gestede who didn’t play.
As for Dormo’s whisky challenge – I’d probably avoid a single shot of Glenmurrangie as it may leave a bad after-taste!
I guess we’re now concentrating on league – hopefully for more than the standard 90 minutes too.
Sorry about that, I stomped out after posting but not before Fulham scored twice very late on to compound a miserable day.
16 shots, 3 on target.
No matter the hard luck stories kids on Teesside will grow up thinking the team is called Middlesbrough Nil.
The morning paper will show 0-1. You can not dress that up as anything other than bad news. You cant blame bad luck because we are not doing enough to turn that luck around.
I’ve just posted up Redcar Red’s match report on what was another last gasp defeat at the Riverside…
https://diasboro.club/2018/01/26/fa-cup-boro-vs-brighton/#MatchReport
It is serious, trust me.
Three consecutive home matches, three teams not much to offer, three teams under the cosh for eighty minutes, three teams just parked themselves at our end of the field with no idea quite how they might get a goal, but determined to keep heaving the ball in and around our goal, fling themselves about and generally hope for the best in the last ten minutes.
The results respectively: A pitiful cross followed by a pitiful header at the far post which would not have troubled your dad(unfortunately the far post was not manned) so three points up the swanee, the same story the next home match, this time one of them managed to get his boot near one of our defenders(an Olimpic standard dive, full length on his face, the ref was looking at his watch, so he had to give it,
The third home match, a team in turmoil, in transition (from the Prem to the Champ) same as, same as, not even looking like hitting the net, then George decides to clear the ball from our goal line, unfortunately his monster smash made full connection with an attackers face, and another match has gone awol.
If you keep doing what you did, you will keep getting what you got.
Now for a wild suggestion, put Traore up front, yes, you read that right.
He keeps giving them knock ins, and they keep missing them. As a little twist why not let them pass to him near the box. Might be fun, you never know till you’ve tried it.
TP will have found a lot out today about some of the players. Braithwaite/ Fletcher and Bamford were all poor. I would certainly take offers for the first two. Bamford I would keep. We still have a massive problem up front though . Is Gestede the anwswer No….I would persevere with Britt but I think we need a another poacher to help the front line
We saw Charlie Wyke at the Riverside today and he wasn’t playing for Bradford !
http://madaboutepl.net/2018/01/middlesbrough-emerge-as-favourites-to-sign-this-bradford-city-striker-a-perfect-fit-for-pulis-plans/
Quite like the idea of bringing back one t our own, Bob. But we need to get Fletcher out first. On loan or something.
In the link they wrote “Wyke is a tall forward and his height gives him an added edge inside the box”. As I remembered differently, I googled and found he is just 175 cm tall. Hardly tall for a centre forward?
Up the Boro!
IF it was Charlie Wyke at the Riverside then he must have got his skates on to be there at 6:30 after finishing the game at Bradford just before 5 this afternoon !
It’s all smoking mirrors …..
MIDDLESBROUGH are leading the chase for New York City winger Jack Harrison.
By Paul Hetherington
00.01, 28 Jan 2018 UPDATED 00.01, 28 Jan 2018
The England Under-21s international is also wanted by Newcastle and hometown club Stoke.
There has been talk of Harrison, 21, leaving the Big Apple on loan, prior to a permanent move.
But the MLS club are understood to be prepared to do a cash deal now.
And Boro boss
Unless TP has being lying [or has a change of heart], we won’t be buying anyone.
I don’t think we will but I expect a couple of loan players to arrive
Middlesbrough are hopeful of securing a loan deal for Everton’s Mo Besic before the transfer window shuts on Wednesday.
The Bosnian international has struggled for game time at Goodison Park and hasn’t featured since early December in a dead rubber Europa League tie. What’s more, he hasn’t made the match day squad for a game after that.
Therefore, according to TEAMtalk, Sam Allardyce is ready to sanction a move for the tough-tackling midfielder to join up with the north east side.
Having recently sold Adam Forshaw to Leeds United and with constant speculation over the future of Adam Clayton, Boro boss Tony Pulis is keen on adding a midfield option before the deadline.
The 25-year old joined Everton from Hungarian side Ferencvaros in 2014 but has managed just 56 appearances in that time.
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His time at Merseyside has been blighted with fitness issues and Besic missed the entire 2016/17 season with a cruciate knee ligament injury.
Should Besic make the move he will be joining a Boro side that are currently four points away from the top six, with the Teesside club entertaining Sheffield Wednesday at the Riverside tomorrow night.
He’s 1.77 m which is 5’10” in old money
Thought Pulis would get someone taller
Just my opinion, but it’s safe to say the season is over, the manager doesn’t want to improve the team and nobody wants to buy any of our players at least the ones we don’t need.so we are stuck with underachieving ,big wage journeymen.
I’ve recently watched teams from lower divisions up against teams in higher divisions,I’ve seen more ability,more guts,more positivity,in general better team playf from them.
What has been going on at the Boro regarding some kind of plan or vision as to improve things in recent years is baffling.
Oversized squads with unbalanced members, money down the drain,
Big job for TP, but I’m not one for waiting I’m too old!
Frustrating game again yesterday. Failure once again to put the ball in the back of the net! Apart from Traore shot that the keeper pushed onto the post our only threat came from defenders!
15m Britt
9m Braithwaite
7m Fletcher
6m Bamford
37m worth of attacking players that couldn’t muster a chance between them
Although not great in front of goal I still think we look more of an attacking threat with Gestede on the pitch,he wins most things in the air and has a few assists with his flick-ons. Maybe pair him and Britt together??
Britt hold up play is terrible 9/10 he loses the ball, he’s be better running on to Gestede’s knock downs one of which was successful for Traore first goal at QPR. Braithwaite looked like he was already in France – Bamfords first terrible touch meant he lost the ball too often. As for Fletcher still can’t believe we paid 7m,one of the tallest on the pitch and very rarely jumped to challenge for the ball!
TP will know his front players aren’t up to it, can’t see him buying unless some are sold so looks like last minute loan deals
On a positive note Friends improving game by game, Shotton surprised me and Ayala’s getting back to his best. Just hope he’s not having his usual annual February holiday.
UTB
Thanks to Redcar Red for his good assessment of what in the end was a match that will very soon be forgotten, if it hasn’t already. I’d agree with his observation that there may now be a danger that Boro become too focussed on Adama in terms of creating chances – it was notable yesterday that when Traore was quiet so was everyone else. I think the commentator said if you close your eyes for the game (which I’m sure some will have been tempted) you know when Traore has the ball because the crowd comes alive.
About the only good thing was there wasn’t a long midweek trip down to south coast for a replay, that depending on who Brighton get in he draw, would perhaps have been a game not many wanted. Let’s hope Ayala hasn’t done himself any serious damage too as Tony Pulis could ill afford to be without his top scorer.
Now looking at the positives. Boro’s away form is pretty good, eight goals in the last three matches all of which they won. If Boro can cut out these last minute goals and live up to OFB’s forecast of goalless draws at home, that will give Boro nine points. Now if they continue their winning habit away from home that would ensure a massive 27 points giving them a total of 80 points for the season. That should ensure a 5th or 6th final position meaning they could play for a goalless draw in the first leg of the semifinal play off match, thus enabling them to win the away leg and play another away match at Spurs, I mean Wembley. Job done, easy peasy.
Of course what Boro don’t want to do is to start a winning run and finish 3rd or 4th, as although Boro would obviously win the away leg, they might concede a last minute goal in the second leg at home, and as away goals don’t count in the playoffs, that would mean extra time and then probably a penalty shootout. Mind, if Boro start winning at home and continue winning away, they might obtain automatic promotion. Could that really happen? Answers on a postcard!
Automatic promotion. I was going to say I’ll have a bottle of whatever you were drinking last night please, then I noticed you posted this at 9.22.
Thanks RR for another good report which highlighted a disappointing game/result and a continued failure to create and take clear cut chances.
We can only hope that we can put another home defeat late on behind us and start to build a run to the finish line starting on Tuesday.
I am not overly confident that we can do so given the inconsistencies and imbalance within the squad which is unlikely to be resolved in this window.
We are also continuing to display an inability to break down and beat the better organised teams, hence why we are where we are in the league.
The Owls will be a different proposition at the Riverside given their improved performances under a new manager. I suspect they will be set up to defend in numbers and hit us on the break.
It will be a shame if Ayala is sidelined given his improved displays under TP, albeit I am happy with Fry as his replacement as a defender but he is, as yet, not the same attacking threat.
It is paramount that we start putting together a series of wins at the Riverside, whilst continuing to pick up points away from home if we are to make the play offs. What chance of an unbeaten run to the end of the season?
Great Report as usual RR a true picture and at least your standards never slip and are a model of consistency.
It must be hard to write in a way that does see the frustration and anger make its way onto the page!
I haven’t even looked at your competition in the press as what you’ve written is what I saw.
Many thanks
OFB
Thank you for the report RR, it sounds like an immensely forgettable game and as somebody has already said most will have forgotten it or are in the process of wiping it from their minds.
Perhaps Boro could kick-off at 14.55 and finish earlier so that we can avoid that psychological last five minutes in its traditional slot as the clock ticks down. What did Schteve call it ? Was it a red zone? Either way we keep on doing it and we have to stop doing it, it must be becoming part of the opposition’s tactical planning process now.
The players do seem to be improving, well, apart from our lottery win of dysfunctional strikers. It’s just a thought but if I was Mr Pulis I’d be sending them for hypnotherapy to cure their striking ills, not another trip to the tattoo parlour.
Can anyone explain why GM bought some of them? Was it just because they were there, available and expensive?
I really did think we were going to win that game. That’s why I can’t win the Sky Super 6.
UTB,
John
Many thanks RR for the alternative take from your very good match report….as Werder said a game best forgotten.
However what you cannot forget is the miss-firing team. Unbalanced up-front, lack of penetration. lack of numbers in the box, lack of incisive passes to the feet of players running into the 18 yard area, lack of shots on goal.
TP may have tightened up on the defence, which was the first most important issue to deal with when he arrived, but he has not improved the front end one jot. OK some may say that the players he has inherited are not up to scratch despite the fortune paid for them. I do not think that is really true and that there is sufficient quality in the squad for those positions. Like the previous manager, front end has suffered as a consequence of improving the defence. For Negrado see…..whoever TP deems to play as the sole unsupported front runner. You cannot have your cake and eat it. He makes reference to being unlucky against Fulham, but in reality we created nothing much in that match and draws are not enough against the teams around us if we still have dreams of the play-off positions.
At this time it seems we are stuck with what we have. Nobody is going to pay anywhere near what we paid for the summer signings or Gestede or Bamford. Is TP going to take a chance on a loaned forward who may suit how he wants to play, even if one better than what we have was available.
Then there is the lack of creativity……….SD came on with Britt with the former making absolutely no difference to the departed Braithwaite. Britt did improve slightly on Fletcher….but again had to fight on his own. In fact he was worse off as TP for some unknown reason swopped Adama to the opposite wing where he was almost ineffective compared to the first half.
I appreciate Ken´s optimism above, but unless there is a miracle of a dramatic improvement at the front end then we will have to wait until the summer and next season to see if TP can make some magic.
I think the subs were the right ones but in the wrong places. Putting Downing right meant Traore was shifted to his much less preferred left side. It didn’t work unfortunately and weakened our potency. Had Downing gone central he has the ability to pick out players and set up opportunities. Bamford was shuffled around during the match and I won’t get on his case until he has had a settled run in one position in a structured functional attacking et up.
As I mentioned in my report our back 4 were practicing routines and organisation, coming out, moving across as a unit etc. Our midfield with Grant and Howson seem to be first choice, organised (again) and settled. Traore is now virtually undroppable and I would add Stewy into that as well so that leaves three places up for grabs. Braithwaite hasn’t lived up to his billing and makes me nervous in possession as I think its almost inevitable that we will lose possession when he is on the ball. In his defence again like Paddy I think he has been shuffled around and never had a chance in a settled position. Fletcher to me looked as effective as Gestede yesterday but we didn’t utilise his height (same applies to Rudy when he plays) and didn’t have pinpoint crosses to feed off our balls played through to utilise his leggy gait which I’m guessing gives him a Yard start.
Gestede can jump and wins headers but I’m not convinced that they always end up were he intended. Britt is a bustling handful but isn’t a conventional target man. Britt has proven goal scoring pedigree but not as an isolated big man. TP recognised with Adama to praise what he does well and encourage his positive traits rather than focus on the negative aspects which over time can be improved especially when his confidence is flying high.
Tactically we are at odds with the skill sets our Strikers have and the ones that do have perhaps some of TP’s preferred skill sets don’t have them to the required standard. I think we need Traore Right, Stewy Central with Paddy Right and one of the remaining Gestede, Assombalonga, Braithwaite, Fletcher up front. Alternatively we go with a front two in which case I would switch Stewy to the left for his crosses, Traore still on the right with Gestede and Paddy/Britt/Martin/Ashley feeding off him.
Might get a bit congested out on the right though RR
I bet we wouldn’t score any goals if we played all of them at once !
I thought Fletcher looked ok too. He has pace but Assambalonga looks a lazy player to me.
One thing in Bamfords defence he covered a lot of ground yesterday and is quite quick.
Again after the match he was out front with all the kids signing programmes and chatting to them.
He seems a really nice lad and I think he’s an important member of the squad.
OFB
Redcar Red
Sounds like Eric Morecambe trying to play Edward Grieg’s Piano Concerto to Andre Previn’s conducting – the right notes but not particularly in the right order,
Just a thought
If Man City sign Fred they should go and sign flint from Bristol city then have Fred flint stones playing for Abu Dubai doo.
I’ll get my coat..
OFB
Mabey City will come in for Bam Bam to complete the Flintstones set
Oh dear, it appears nobody yet has realised I wasn’t being optimistic, just trying a bit of sarcastic wit.
Now the alternative ‘forecast’ would be that despite drawing all our home games, we might lose all our away games thus accumulating a total of 53 points, and that should be enough to avoid relegation.
Ken
I had a nice chat with Doug Weatherall who was the North East Football writer for the Daily Mail for many years.
He is 86 and still recalled games played over 60 years ago. He was so impressive I’ve jotted down some notes for an interview which we will put on the blog later as we are starting to rack them up.
And let’s be honest we have the playoffs reports to fill the blog at the end of the season culminating in winning promotion at Wembley !
OFB
Sorry Werder………can you look in the rubbish bin please for my last post. This is getting to be a little too regular with my longer ones????
Maybe you were spammed for the excessive use of continuous fullstops 😉 – though I wish I could say why…
If it had been for the use of comas and ands??
No,one, knows, really; why punctuation, marks,make,all,the,difference…….
The, American, English,word,version,drives,me.mad,when,it,insists,that,a,comma,is,necessary,before.an,and!!!!!
I think this post is going straight to the trash bin!?!?
OFB
After the foolish defeat to Brighton( yes yes, I know it’s not important) it’s time for some decisions to be made about players who have had extended trials(very) I’m thinking of Bamford.
As one who has bored this blog for too long with demands for his inclusion in the team, I now think that he simply does not do enough during the match.
In order: Run the miles, challenge for the ball, get in the box, shoot. Make his presence felt, leave a few bruises on the opposition.
The word ineffective springs to mind.
There are others, but you get the idea.
Bamford did nearly score though with an audacious overhead kick
OFB
Yes I liked the attempt, but( that word again) when you are an extremely well coached young player( ten years with young players of your own class, at least) able to practice anything you fancy, for however long it takes, it was a half hearted attempt at best, everything went beautifully, even the ball behaved beautifully as it went just above the bar, everyone watching it knew why it did not end up in the net.
Because to perform the overhead kick you have to go all the way, and that means flinging yourself backwards onto the floor at speed, connect with the ball and leave the rest to the headline writers.
It is of a piece with his attitude during a match(and I speak as an admirer) lack of application.
Thanks Werder and RR. Good read as ever.
I saw the game live through a good stream – we were good but we either tired towards the end or Brighton started show their quality.
We should have scored in the first half. Now we didn’t and we paid the price for it. Their goal was lucky but we can blame ourselved again.
I think we have good or even excellent strikers for this level. So I am afraid the problems lie deeper – the way how we play and create.
Fletcher was terrible yesterday but Britt wasn’t much better when he came on. Is the problem in the midfield as we need to crate more chances for our strike force.
I think induvidially we have good players up front; Britt, BamBam, Gestede, Braithwaite, even Fletcher. But why does it not work on the pitch, I don’t know.
As RR said: ” Braithwaite is a bit of a conundrum for me, he pops up in the right places for nicking the odd goal but when in possession I am never convinced that he will hang onto it and worse that he is likely to give the ball away sloppily. ”
The above applies many of our forwards. Traore is improving, but Britt has gone worse during Pulis reign. So that is where the team needs to improve.
Dissapointed we are out of the Cup. But there is still a lot to play for in the league. But we need a home win now to boost the confidence of the crowd.
Up the Boro!
Actually, when Downing came on, he hardly seemed to get a touch on the right for ages and it took him a while to get into the game so didn’t make much of an impact. Britt was mostly playing too deep too and that didn’t leave many Boro players looking to get into the box – though Howson did his best to drive through the middle.
Well, I am sure you can’t wait any longer. The most memorable part of the day? Certainly not the football game – the atmosphere was almost as if the game were being played in a library until near the end.
No, the important issue which requires exposure to a news-hungry readership, is the choice of Single Malt to accompany the haggis, neeps and tatties last night. It would be unfair to keep you all in any further suspense. In deference to views expressed here, or on Twitter, I have to reveal that it was the Macallan 10 year old which was opened so its charms could be made available at the dinner table.
A slight “issue” with the cork, on which I will not dwell. But that means the rest of the bottle is now in a decanter in the living room.. My guess is that it will not remain in the decanter as long as it was in its bottle. (It’s often rather warm in the living room, with the log burner doing its stuff. There is a surprisingly high evaporation rate in that room).
I’ll drink to that!
I resemble that remark!
A fine choice and even finer that it will “evaporate” so quickly.
Slàinte
Now we are out of the Cup we can concentrate on the League but do supporters really think we can finish in the top6 ? To have a chance we need to quickly start winning home games by stopping the trend of not only not winning but not even scoring a goal. I believe we only have an outside chance of being in the top 6. Why ? Because looking at the teams above us I can’t see us catching most of them .
No chance of catching Wolves or Derby. Cardiff have a wily manager who is one of the best at getting a team promoted and so I expect them to be above us.
Aston Villa are on a role and with Terry back I can’t see them slipping up.
Fulham are the form team and look to be peaking at the right time and they are scoring lots of goals.
So what are we left with ? Bristol City –
I thought they were catchable having been on a bad run but they won yesterday and have strengthened the team. ( As an aside if they get into the top 6, to what extent will the experience of their 2 leg games against Man. City be helpful )
So all this points to it being difficult to get into the top 6 and it assumes we are good enough to be able to be above the rest – Sheffield Utd etc
One final difficulty is that usually a team “comes from nowhere”. – so keep our fingers crossed it does not happen this season!!
Being a Boro supporter who only sees them a few times a season cos of living in Huddersfield and therefore also following the fortunes of Huddersfield Town I am struck be the similarity of their results and League standing with those of the Boro last season ie relatively comfortable up to early December, scoring very few goals and then going on a bad run. Their next 2 games are Liverpool and Man. Utd after which I fear they will be in the bottom 3
I think we’ll make the playoffs but I don’t think Pulis is too bothered
I would think he’s said to Steve Gibson “look this season is a right off. Let’s have a look at what we’ve got at the end then have a clear out.”
He has actually said “It takes 4 months to make any impact as a manager in a football club. I’ve been here 4 weeks.”
Ben Gibson was asked what he thought of Tony Pulis.
“ When he(TP)!comes into the room everyone goes quiet. He has an aura about him that I haven’t seen in any manager before.”
To me it shows that TP has won the players over and things despite what the results show are moving in the right direction
OFB
There’s a fine line between hoping for a win and expecting a win.
There seems to be a general sense of disappointment that we didn’t win a game we should have. I’m afraid I have to disagree. Brighton, don’t forget, are a premiership outfit and despite their recent form, were going to be hard to breakdown. Once they got to the final ten minutes there was a sense of inevitability in their winning goal arriving.
Despite all the huffing and puffing we didn’t look like scoring and the lack of creativity from midfield was once again the reason. It’s all well and good playing four attacking forwards, but without anyone supplying them it’s just leaves the gap between attack and defence a wasteland to resemble the outskirts of the Riverside.
There were several players on show who’s days are numbered and were getting a chance to show their worth, how they reacted was illuminating, from determined effort to petulant indifference. I’m sure the manager had his mind made up already and yesterday was just to reinforce his thoughts.
If the club want to achieve promotion via the playoffs then a dip in to the transfer market is imperative. If it’s to be an 18 month project then streamlining is the order of the day. Ramirez ( love him or loathe him) was the spark that got us going last time and he hasn’t been replaced.
Our net spend isn’t that high so there should be funds available, just don’t give them to the recruitment dept!
Well put GHW
I tend to look for positives in even the most dour of matches, so what did I take out of yesterday’s game, which in my opinion, we did not deserve to lose. Although it was heartbreaking to lose late in the game to a bit of a “fluke” goal, I am glad the match was settled yesterday, instead of another mid week replay, possibly followed by another league fixture having to be moved to mid week to accommodate the next round of the cup.
In my opinion, TP got the opportunity to make an assessment of some players that he is, either, unsure of or has not seen in a competitive match. In my opinion players such as Fletcher, Bamford, Braithwaite,Assombalonga, Clayton and maybe Fry. Now we are in the business end of the transfer window and I don’t expect MFC to buy anyone but we might be able to move another player or two out. I firmly believe that not spending in this window and keeping what funds we have available to use constructively in the summer, when we know which league we will be competing in next season, is the most sensible policy.
The other aspect of this policy is that players we can’t move in the next few days will have the opportunity to prove themselves over the next few months or we will get a better price for them in the summer than in a “fire” sale now. It also should be remembered that TP has only been in the job for one month only and doesn’t appear to be a manager that makes rash decisions, whereas people are complaining that the strike force we have were “rush” buys by GM on who was available, without thought to the structure and if the skill sets would work together.
In my opinion we now have an experienced manager that I believe will move MFC forward with a plan and purpose but most of all with sustainability, I just hope others have the patience that I and I believe Steve Gibson has.
Come on BORO.
We really need an overall of the midfield,
The top teams and I know it’s a different world ,but Bournmouth have proved it’s possible,to have the right kind.
I’m wondering if the manager trusts the ones we have,and what I mean is ,are the forwards frightened to make positive runs high up, frightened to go beyond and gamble, because they will not get the right pass,the midfield can’t retain possession ,and so like yesterday the movement is slowed down a poor pass ,interseption the other team get the chance to score?
If we had say a Matta , a player who rarely gives the ball away in good areas then forwards can gamble and have more opportunities.
Bournmouth don’t have a Matta but when their forwards make forward runs the ball is put into the right areas ,they don’t stop and start again.
We have spent daft money on very average players, why not try and get a couple of midfielders from top teams,ones who are an upgrade and maybe aren’t getting games they should,get them on loan and if we have to pay top wages for the rest of the season do it.
That’s if we still want promotion like?
Here’s another thought, how about bringing Rav in to work with the strikers, he knows all the tricks.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qH10zFp4d9Y
Studying Bamford’s goals I see persistence, some physicality, change of pace, good off the ball awareness, vision, two good feet…
I’m convinced that player is still in there somewhere, if only we had the confidence and consistency to unleash it. Oh, hang on, we did. Three years ago.
When we’re organised, we long for more freedom. When the players are “free”, we want more organisation.
The right answer will always be somewhere in between.
Simon
You have to go back a bit to study Patrick’s goals.
Every one says he is a lovely lad(I agree) and that is what is holding him back.
Just watching football on the box, the amount of effort needed to force that ball over the line is remarkable, I do not see us making that effort when in the box, standing and watching is our default position.
Agree that Bamford cannot have become an average player.
He may be lacking confidence but he still has talent.
I don’t think his instructions are the same as they were under AK and he has different team mates.
It’s up to TP to play him in the correct position and get the best out of him.
I think he would do well with an extended run up front, either on his own or in a two. And as Britt is no longer nailed on then why not Paddy leading the line as an alternative to Gestede.
The other possibility?
That we are far too reliant on one magic maverick for our creativity. As we were under Aitor.
Also. In 2015, James Nalton wrote:
“There are matches taking place where teams are being hindered, not helped, by their quest to play football ‘the right way’.
“They also concentrate too much on the possession part of Barcelona’s model. Passing, recycling the ball, and dominating possession are all well and good, but what really made Barcelona so exceptional was world class dribbling in the final third, and Lionel Messi.
“…Those who try to copy an existing system directly might see fleeting but not sustained success, and will be forever playing catch-up.
“Football clubs at all levels, and more importantly their coaches, need to abandon the idea that the right way to play is defined by a team or set of circumstances other than their own.”
What we had, in the end, under Aitor – and I borrow these words from a friend of mine – was “Tesco tiki-taka”. A bargain (Barragan?) bucket imitation without the required vision or belief to take the success from fleeting to sustained.
Downing and Braithwaite are another problem. They don’t scream “spontaneous” or “exciting” like Adama does, and Gaston-pre-Gasgone, Fabbrini and even Tomlin did. They have something special to offer in attack, that much is obvious. But they are less the kind to stand out than to blend into the machine, so to speak. Theirs are the kind of skills you admire, that you know are valuable, but don’t have you off the edge of your seat as often as you’d like them to.
Just my opinion.
Simon
I agree with you, and would add the following.
Is it possible that our set up(and I’m talking the luxury training ground) is causing a lack of determination at moments when decisiveness is needed?
I think a look back at moments when we have possessed a player of better class, will show that the rest have tended to stand and watch together with the crowd, to see if he will score.
On Saturday Traore laid on another assist, this time finding the man in front of goal, it made no difference, he still missed.
We quite simply cannot go on in this fashion, no hunger sums it up.
I didn’t see the game but have read RR’s match report.
Traore’s impact is reduced on the left wing. TP has made this mistake before. This tactical innovation should permanently binned.
Playing him on the wing means he is always facing the game. If he’s played at 9 or 10 would probably encourage his wait for the ball to feet tendencies.
Bamford wasn’t a natural right winger but was successful there. He certainly isn’t a left winger tho’ I don’t doubt he tried.
As Traore is on the right wing, play Bamford at either 9 or 10. Probably best at 10, and put Downing on the left.
I like Downing at 10 but he’s a far better player on the left than Bamford.
I’d play Gestede at 9 as he links well with Traore.
We seemed to commit ourselves well yesterday. The cup win will just have to wait till next year.
I am going to disagree with the ‘at least we don’t have a replay’ view of the defeat.
My view, other views are available, I would rather be having a replay than have a squad thinking, damn, mugged at home again. I would rather them come in tomorrow in the draw for the 5th round than brooding on another late goal defeat.
I would want them looking forward to the draw having stopped the rot against any sort of decent team at home and then concentrate on doing the double over the Owls.
I think I may put a tenner on the Owls to win 1-0 in the hope I spook fate, knowing my luck I will something right for once! You can get 12/1 on that result.
I’m not sorry we’re out and that goes for nearly all the fans sat near me
We didn’t want to travel to Brighton mid week and cause a fixture congestion with that game and possibly a next round match as well
We just want promotion and put all our time and efforts into doing that
The cup is a diversion and not a particular welcome one watching teams like Brighton
The only good that came of playing yesterday is that it gave a run out for Bamford Clayton and Fletcher
I would think that what Pulis saw prevented any off loading of the three unless we received a substantial bid.
Pulis also saw Fry in action who didn’t look out of place.
Now I love the FA cup as much as anyone and flew back for a weekend from Argentina to see Boro v Chelsea. But, I’m not one of those who would prefer to win the cup and not have promotion
I would prefer promotion every time and to see quality teams every week with their Internationals at the Riverside
OFB
Tony mentioned after the game maybe it’s time to nail down a starting eleven and no more trials,
But I’d like to see one more go at a possible answer,I’d go a 433 attacking formation and just tell them to get out there and express themselves, I’d pick players with natural attacking tendencies.
Randolph
Shotton Ayala Gibson Friend
Howson Baker Downing
Traoria Bamford Assombongo of
I think they would give the opposition something to think about.
The bench would be solid too.
I’d also tell the midfield to hit the forwards early get their defence turning.
COB
Off topic here’s an excellent documentary on a seven letter word beginning with C. Thoroughly enjoyed it and available on the iPlayer. Don’t let the subject matter put you off.
http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b09glhsh
OFB
Doug Weatherall, an old fogey like me? Nostalgia is wasted on the young, yet sometimes I wonder was the football in the 40’s and 50’s better than today’s dross, well anyway as far as Boro are concerned. The trouble is we all tend to remember our youth and the good times, but forget the bad times. Also there are few recorded highlights of matches that were played 70 years ago.
The only day that it rained here in the Algarve I stayed indoors and watched DVDs of Castleford’s Challenge Cup wins in the Semifinal at Headingley and the Final at Wembley in 1969, both of which I attended and enjoyed at the time. The Wembley experience was great, but now on reflection the rugby was poor compared to today’s Super League. So I now ask myself was Football better 70 years ago or am I just being nostalgic?
Simon recently wrote a splendid article on Eurocracy. Apart from the Chilean Robledo brothers who played for Newcastle in the 50’s, clubs consisted of mainly British and Irish players in their teams. It wasn’t until the early 80’s that I became aware of foreigners playing for English clubs when ‘Tottingham’ signed two Argentinians, Osvaldo Ardiles and Rikki Villa. Since then, not only have we had an influx of foreign players, but also foreign coaches/managers, and there can be no doubt that Arsene Wegner led the way in nutrition and the continental way of preparation for matches,
However what we must remember is that Britain had been starved of any meaningful competitive football for eight years during the Second World War, and some of the players in the late 40’s were mature in years to say the least. When Arsenal won the league in the 1947/48 many of their players were in their late 30s. Nevertheless every club had at least one British international player in its side and attendance records were broken regularly not only at football grounds, but at other sporting venues. For example I can still remember the final day’s play on television when Dennis Compton scored the winning boundary in 1953 at The Oval to beat the Australians, but wishing that Len Hutton had stayed at the crease to win the Ashes.
Today we are lucky to have the opportunity if we wish, to see some of the Word’s best footballers live in this country or on television, but in the immediate postwar years the only football shown on TV was the occasional international match. FA Cup Finals were not televised till the early 50s and not many households could afford a television in those days.
However getting back to the players of the immediate post war years I was lucky to see some of the most famous British international football players in the history of our game, so as promised last week I list below some of those players who played at Ayresome Park between 1947 and 1953 when Boro were a First Division side. It might jog the memory of some of the older bloggers on this forum, but will certainly bring back memories for Doug Wetherall.
Arsenal
Wally Barnes (fullback) 22 caps for Wales
Ray Daniel (centre half) 21 caps for Wales
Laurie Scott (fullback) 17 caps for England
Alex Forbes (halfback) 14 caps for Scotland
Aston Villa
Trevor Ford (centre forward) 38 caps for Wales
Con Martin (centre half) 36 caps for Northern Ireland and Eire
Birmingham City
Gil Merrick (goalkeeper) 23 caps for England
Blackburn Rovers
Bill Eckersley (fullback) 17 caps for England
Bobby Langton (winger) 11 caps for England
Blackpool
Stanley Matthews (right winger) 54 caps for England
Stan Mortensen (centre/inside forward) 25 caps for England
Allan Brown (halfback) 13 caps for Scotland
George Farm (goalkeeper) 10 caps for Scotland
Bolton Wanderers
Nat Lofthouse (centre forward) 33 caps for England
Burnley
Jimmy McIlroy (inside forward) 55 caps for Northern Ireland
Chelsea
Roy Bentley (centre/inside forward) 12 caps for England
Derby County
Billy Steel (inside forward) 30 caps for Scotland
Peter Doherty (inside forward) 16 caps for Northern Ireland
Raich Carter (inside forward) 13 caps for England
Everton
Peter Farrell (halfback) 35 caps for Northern Ireland and Eire
Tommy Eglington (winger) 30 caps for Wales
Jimmy O’Neill (goalkeeper) 17 caps for Eire
T. G. Jones (fullback) 13 caps for Wales
Huddersfield Town
Johnny McKenna (winger) 7 caps for Northern Ireland
Liverpool
Billy Liddell (winger) 26 caps for Scotland
Cyril Sidllow (goalkeeper) 7 caps for Wales
Manchester City
Roy Paul (centrehalf) 33 caps for Wales
Roy Clarke (inside forward) 22 caps for Wales
Frank Swift (goalkeeper) 19 caps for England
Bobby Johnstone (inside forward) 17 caps for Scotland
Ivor Broadis (inside forward) 14 caps for England
Manchester United
Johnny Carey (fullback) 28 caps for Northern Ireland and Eire
John Aston, snr (fullback) 17 caps for England
Jimmy Delaney (winger) 15 caps for Scotland
Henry Cockburn (halfback) 13 caps for England
Stan Pearson (inside forward) 8 caps for England
Jack Rowley (centre forward) 6 caps for England
Middlesbrough
Wilf Mannion (inside forward) 26 caps for England
Arthur Fitzsimons (inside forward) 26 caps for Eire
George Hardwick (left fullback) 13 caps for England
(Mannion and Hardwick also played in the postwar Great Britain team that beat Rest of Europe XII 6-1 at Hampden Park – Hardwick was captain and Boro were the only club to have more than one player selected).
Newcastle United
Alf McMichael (fullback) 40 caps for Northern Ireland
Jackie Milburn (centre forward) 13 caps for England
Frank Brennan (centre half) 7 caps for Scotland
Portsmouth
Jimmy Dickinson (halfback) 43 caps for England
Norman Uprichard (goalkeeper) 18 caps for Northern Ireland
Jack Froggatt (centre half) 13 caps for England
Jimmy Scoular (halfback) 9 caps for Scotland
Preston North End
Tom Finney (winger/centre forward) 76 caps for England
Tommy Docherty (halfback) 25 caps for Scotland
Sheffield Wednesday
Eddie Gannon (halfback) 15 caps for Northern Ireland
Jackie Sewell (inside forward) 6 caps for England
Stoke City
Neil Franklin (centre half) 27 caps for England
Sunderland
Billy Bingham (winger) 56 caps for Northern Ireland
Len Shackleton (inside forward) 5 caps for England
Tottenham Hotspur
Alf Ramsey (fullback) 32 caps for England
Ron Burgess (fullback) 32 caps for Wales
Eddie Bailey (inside forward) 9 caps for England
Ted Ditchburn (goalkeeper) 6 caps for England
West Bromwich Albion
Jackie Vernon (halfback) 17 caps for Northern Ireland
Davy Walsh (inside forward) 9 caps for Northern Ireland
Wolverhampton Wanderers
Billy Wright (centre half/ halfback) 105 caps for England
Jimmy Mullen (winger) 12 caps for England
Sammy Smyth (inside forward) 9 caps for Northern Ireland
This is not a comprehensive list of international players during that time, but those who I can recall. Remember some of these players played pre-war also meaning they were robbed of international caps for seven years. Also substitutes hadn’t been introduced, so all their caps were for 90 minute performances. Also the number of international matches were much fewer in those days, and that Scotland were as strong a team as England.
Boro also played a few matches against Hibernian who included the following international players:-
Lawrie Reilly (centre forward) 38 caps
Gordon Smith (inside forward) 18 caps
Eddie Turnbull (halfback) 8 caps
Stockton played an FA Cup match at Ayresome Park during this period against Notts County who included the England centre forward Tommy Lawton who had 20 caps.
Once Boro were relegated they had fixtures against Leeds United for whom the great John Charles (38 caps for Wales) played.
I realise that most of the aforementioned players mean nothing to most of the bloggers on this forum, but for some of you who are nearer my generation, perhaps it will bring back a few memories.
As an addendum, perhaps you may not be aware that much later Ambrose Fogarty ex Sunderland inside forward won the last of his eleven Eire international caps whilst playing for Hartlepools; as far as I am aware, Pools only international player unless Dimi qualified.
Ken
I thought that would stir a few memories for you!
Doug was very bright and lively and spoke extremely well.
I gave him the details for Billy Days Funeral next week which he is going to attend
He was a true football supporter and what is little known is he organised Jackie Milburns testimonial some 10 years after he had left Newcastle
This enabled wor Jackie to buy his first and only house in his lifetime.
A true football supporter (even if he is a Sunderland fan)
OFB
Yet another example of “pressing the wrong button and losing a post”!
Please, if you have just a few minutes, look up John Charles on Wikipedia. See how he played the game and the tributes paid to him by Jack Charlton and many others and, in particular, in the statement issued by Juventus after he died. Without doubt the most successful ever British “exported player”. And what a man.
If you keep losing posts, might I suggest you write them in “notes” on your iPhone or ” notepad” on your computer. Then just copy and paste them into the comments box. That way you’ll always have the original.
I will have to think about that. I used to save pieces on my “old” laptop before posting, but not on this one, and don’t even have Word on this one! I have to say I hate this laptop. Maybe get an iPad? The iPhone suggestion might be one to consider……
I start writing my Talking Points in “Notes”, then take it from there. Defo a good idea Dormo.
Saturday was a wasted opportunity for Boro to advance into the next round of the FA Cup especially as the likes of Arsenal and Liverpool have been eliminated. What really is puzzling though is how Boro’s players, manager, Maddo and the Gazette reporters (excluding AV) think that it was a good display from Boro when in fact bloggers on this forum and most of the National press, whilst acknowledging that Boro were unlucky to lose, described the match as a turgid affair. Are the Gazette reporters trying to get back into MFC’s good books by praising the performance, or are they so blinkered?
Ken
Been in contact with my mates who I go to games with and they echo what has been posted on this fine blog.
Turgid seems spot on.
I wouldn’t go so far as to say “Turgid”, it wasn’t that good!
Substitute turdgid for constipated ?
Turgid is being polite Ken.
Whilst the defence has improved under TP, the midfield and front end has not improved at all, apart from Howson and Adama.
Although I previously said that I believed that there was sufficient quality in the forwards at this level, I do not believe we have the quality in the providers to them.
Clayton defends the back four nothing more. Howson gets forword more now but lacks incisive passing skills. Braithwaite as others have said is inconsistent, Johnson does not look to be good enough for this level and SD, well my thoughts are well known.
I just cannot see any real improvement happening, certainly not against the better teams and we will continue to loiter just outside the top six.
Had iPad issues so just caught up with the blog after posting pre match Saturday.
Thanks for following he post match wash up RR. Silk purse from a pigs ear comes to mind.
I haven’t seen the game, listened on Tees, and we really do need to stop gifting these wins to teams we have been on top of for the majority of play, and start putting a few of the chances we create in the oppositions net. I have seen their goal and it seems that lately, if we didn’t have bad luck at the Riverside we’d have no chuffing luck at all.
Won’t even be able to listen to the game tomorrow as I’m on back shift and don’t finish until 2:30am (23:30GMT).
If Boro are going to make anything out of this season a win tomorrow is an absolute must, and I’m going for a cagey 2-1 win to the men in red.
As a thinking point which might provide a bit of discussion I’m wondering who will replace Ayala tomorrow night? Fry seems the most likely given that it was he who TP turned to on the bench on Saturday. Its possible that he may move Shotton across bearing in mind that Wednesday might deploy the man mountain Nuhiu preferring Shotton’s experience and thereby putting Christie at RB.
My guess is that Christie probably understands the TP game plan now having trained under him for a month, watched from the sidelines and no doubt been shown a few videos of how he kept losing players at the far post. I think Pulis will probably stick with Fry but if he does then who does he stick on the bench as CB cover? Christie is nailed on as he was on Saturday as defensive cover and I suppose Johnson could cover at LB so in theory Shotton or Friend could move across if needed or will the young Luxembourger Enes Mahmutovic get an opportunity?
Interesting
I’ll stick with a fry up ?
RR, I think it will be Fry. He did OK on Saturday, but agree the big fellow Nuhiu could cause problems.
OFB
I am not bothered about the FA Cup, I am bothered about the fact we lost yet again 1-0 at home to a late goal.
If we were in the cup draw that would mean we had a better result on Saturday. That is my concern, you cannot switch form on, Saturday was a chance to win at home and break the run of poor home games (Mackems apart).
There is no guarantee the players have gone in to training laughing and joking that they are out of the cup and will set about Wednesday on Tuesday. There is a chance our run of home form is eating in to the players.
Wins breed confidence Ian and we certainly need some at the moment. Back to back in reality.
Ian
I think that is where a wise experienced manager will come into his own. I doubt very much if Tony Pulis and Dave Kemp will allow wallowing in self pity and I’m pretty sure he will have words to say about our ability or total lack of it at the sharp end at home. His after match comments alluded to as much when he referenced all the money spent on Forwards out on the pitch.
TP’s after match and pre game interviews seem to pretty much highlight what we see which is refreshing and unusual. No spin, hype or throwaway one liners about the opposition being “quality players” or he thought that our lads were “magnificent”. He calls it as he sees it and the problem is that we have purchased and spent serious money but the quality or return on investment isn’t there to be seen.
How TP addresses that or what he changes will be interesting but I doubt that he will sit and let the grass grow. It appears that he wants the rest of the season to have a long good look at what he has at his disposal and assess in depth the strengths and weaknesses of this squad. If we achieve the Play Offs and if by some chance we actually won then great but it doesn’t appear to be the primary objective. Building longer term seems to be the main goal and everything else will fall in place. I think that judging on what he has seen so far he may go with a 442 with Gestede and a.n.other feeding off knock downs, sniffing about in the 18 yard box.
442? Interesting I like that
Ian
I know what you are saying but really Pulis used the game as a training match to see what other members of the Squad could do for him.
In that regard it was a successful game and to be frank in the first half it was one of the best performances we have seen.
The problem appears to be that as the game goes on in the second half and we appear to run out of steam. Traore starts getting tired and no one picks up the running and takes over the baton.
Assambalonga looks lazy to me and quite frankly not interested. I’m sure Pulis will sort him out.
Changing wings for Traore and not putting Downing at 10 creating the goals was also a mistake
But hey the guy has only been here 4 weeks
Don’t worry the players won’t be taking things for granted under Pulis they are very wary of him and respect him so they won’t be swinging the lead
OFB
Having a moan about a new manager with no or limited track record is one thing but Pulis has been around for a long time and isn’t interested in what a 20 something year old player thinks about him or his methods. The squad generally will likewise realise this and know that the gaffer has proven that what he does works and that if its spluttering a bit at times now it will come good either with their buy in or in spite of them.
The fans also remain confident that TP will deliver in much the same way that a Warnock or Allardyce would. Three home defeats out of four yet the general prognosis is that despite the disappointments there are very clear tangible signs that progress is being made albeit in some and not all areas. Same goes for Dave Kemp, he has been in the game for a while and knows his stuff, Woody and Shotton can both testify about the management team.
Assombalonga I think suffers from a similar languid style as did AA which can be frustrating to watch but he thrives off balls into the box not scrapping to win or retain possession 25 or 30 yards out.
Holding the ball up and playing others into the game isn’t and never was Britt’s thing, if we are judging him its fair to say that Saturday wasn’t great for the lad but he should be judged for what he was signed for and for the reason for which he believed he was joining Boro. Self same applies to Braithwaite and Bamford, with those three there is a bit of a theme developing. Is it coincidental that all those players seemingly have collective faults or is there something (like Traore and Shotton) that can be done to accentuate their skills rather than trying to compensate for their weaknesses?
Good points
I just hope we have the time to coach these players to what is needed this season
RR and OFB
I accept all that but we don’t know what runs through the minds of the players, what their default responses are in a situation.
What I do know are the outcomes of games at the Riverside against any team with a bit of nouse.
Until we break that cycle, and sharpish, the season will fizzle out.
Absolutely need to break that cycle or jinx no debating that point. I think its perhaps easier to swallow when you are watching the side playing live and the small tangible improvements are easier to identify and relate to rather than watching on a laptop, reading reports or two minute highlights on the box which give a distinct black or white cold tint based inevitably on the end result.
Ultimately its results that get Managers fired or hailed as Messiahs and as yet we are not seeing the fruits of the training pitch labours. TP himself has referenced a few times that he isn’t a miracle worker and he seems to be taking a very methodical step by step approach. Isolating anything that could be at fault before moving onto the next stage of his diagnosis.
I sense it will come and all fall into place but whilst we are tapping our watches and rolling our eyes our Head Mechanic is going through his preferred system of identification and then repair rather than pulling out plugs and leads and trying them in a different order then forgetting which leads were plugged in where and in which sequence (like I suspect his predecessor did) in a panic to get that darn thing started and running.
It will come eventually, hopefully soon but it will come, there are too many indicators to the positive for it not to.
RR
Agree with that assessment.
RR
you’re right as we see the Boro live and close up we can see discernable differences each game for the better
No one that I talk to at the game is worried and agree that we do seem to be organised and keeping formation
Late goals lucky richochets and dubious penalties aside we will win at home starting tomorrow!
2-0 tomorrow!
2-0 tomorrow!
2-0 tomorrow!
2-0 tomorrow!
2-0 tomorrow!
2-0 tomorrow!
2-0 tomorrow!
2-0 tomorrow!
2-0
Did I tell you what the score was going to be ?
OFB
The dodgy penalty against Fulham plus Brighton bringing on that Irish International Rick O’Shea from nowhere should not be underestimated. They were both unlucky for Boro and fortuitous to the opposition rather than deserved especially considering we had an absolute stonewall, nailed on penalty earlier in the Fulham game ignored by a Makem Ref.
The papers still say we lost but fine margins. Things we are told even themselves out over a season so lets hope so, preferably in the last minute of the Play Off final at Wembley. A penalty awarded for Boro against Fulham with the score at 0-0 will do nicely!
RR
Our unbalanced squad is a big issue and the reason we don’t score many. We try to accommodate all of our front players yet if you asked Britt, Paddy, Braithwaite, Gestede and Fletcher where they preferred to play, they would all say up top.
Which other teams have this luxury and quality outside of the PL.
If we get rid of two and replace with a pacey left winger and a smart playmaker we would correct the balance of the team.
Just me thoughts like.
I see Ben Houchen was on BBC2’s Daily Politics show at lunchtime today talking about a Freeport at Teesport.
This seems to be gathering momentum and attracting a national audience. Whatever your personal politics this is an idea everyone can get behind.
GHW
That would be a fantastic coup for the region and after the massive job losses in the area could be the sort of out of the box thinking that regenerates the entire region with even more spin off benefits as companies chase the huge advantages that a Freeport brings.
The Tees infrastructure generally especially road and rail could become a national priority on the back of it along with jobs and an upturn for local businesses piggybacking the Freeport. Morally its something the area deserves whether or not Politicians of whatever political persuasion have morals is another thing.
And. At the meeting with the minister last week at PD Ports who proposed this ?
One Steve Gibson !
OFB
I think you’ll find that SG asked the minister a question re Teesport becoming a Freeport , but I don’t think the proposal itself is his.
I’m more than happy to be proved wrong though.
Sorry if I gave that impression
Steve was asked to raise the question which he did
The initiative was based on a collective
Is it just me or has the Official MFC site seemingly dropped the level of Boro news story coverage compared to the opening months of the season?
I seem to recall thought that when launched it looked like they were doing all their own media stories almost as a petulant side swipe at the Gazette but the content seems to me anyway to have fizzled out significantly especially since GM departed. I’m not saying that there is anything to read into it and perhaps things are just generally quiet but it appears to me that from main beam its now on dipped or even side and tail lights most days.
RR
It does seem a bit strange. Maybe it’s the bad result that sets the tone or, perhaps, there is a breakthrough in the stand off with the Gazette and they’re leaving it to them to come up with some news (tongue firmly in cheek on that one)?
I think they thought they were going to smash the league after all the spending and that there would be a huge swell of feel good factor on Teesside that they were about to surf down the Tees on waving at the Gazette new offices as they basked in the spotlight.
Careful what you wish for comes to mind!
Ssshh there’s a war on!
It’s headlamps with slits and running on paraffin lamps with wicks
Loose lips sinks ships !
Walls have ears !
What’s Black amd White and Read all over?
Don’t tell them your name Bob!
Stupid boy
“Don’t make any false moves OFB, and don’t make any real ones either!”
RR I do not think there istoo much to write about at the moment, positive anyway.
The Boro, I have not looked, are probably in the same position as when GM left, with probably pro-rata points. Chances of top six no better and a little worse as the games left slip away.
Redcar Red
Maybe MFC realises that it can’t compete with Diasboro.
There is an interesting article in the Gazette from Dom Shaw on Liam Rosenior and his thoughts on Tony Pulis. There does seem to be an awful lot of repetition and consistency from various sources all around the game with the same opinions and stories about TP and his management style and coaching.
Consistency is something I like, so long as its good of course!
Elsewhere an interesting story is leaking out of Merseyside linking us with Mo Besic on loan. He has been injury plagued for the last few years and subsequently dropped off the Everton first team radar but was a decent player both for previous clubs and his country Bosnia. When signed I thought Everton got him for snip at around £4M. He is a snarly irritating sort of player that imposes himself on opponents, disrupting things and setting up attacks. With Forshaw gone and Baker looking likely to return then this one might have some legs in it. The lad desperately needs to re-establish himself in the game after a cruciate ligament problem, could he be our 2018 Ramirez?
Or maybe there is little news at the moment, as RR rightly points out TP is working away and there is not much to say.
I would rather they got on with it rather than meaningless interviews for the sake of it.
Fully agree!
I thought I better have a look at MFC to see any non news only to find that we had increased allocation for QPR away and information about tickets for the game against Brighton.
doh!
As a certain cartoon character often remarks on similar scenarios.
Better non news than fake news.
I say let TP do his job, get the machine purring so we can accelerate up the league without the need for break lights or hazard lights. Let’s find a park in the top six, refuel and set off for Wembley leaving early to get there in good time.
Well it was a bit of a tight schedule with a Tuesday game this week but with about 24 hours to go, here’s my preview for the visit of Sheffield Wednesday…
https://diasboro.club/2018/01/29/championship-boro-vs-sheff-wed/