The Preston Lads

Watching the last two games, I agree with most on here that MONs tactics are at the very best, bizzare!

Watching last night, the difference in strength of both midfield's was clear to see.  And I wouldnt necessarily put that down to the quality of the players (entirely), but O'Neill playing square pegs in round holes.

You could see last night that there was no-one in that midfield who could put their foot on the ball and dictate play.  Playing Christie in there (right back in centre mid?!) when you have the likes of Browne and Hourihane on the bench is madness.

You boys could have had Ronaldo and Messi up top, and it wouldnt have made a blind bit of difference, there would have been no supply!

The only time anything did look like happening is when our Callum dropped so far deep to get the ball due to lack of service, and try to make things happen himself (dragging him well out of position and alienating Aiden O'Brien even more!).

Madness.

Quick thoughts on our lads.

Callum is a tidy little player.  Definately looked like the bright spark in the last 2 games.  Callum's best position is either side of a main striker (though we have used him up top in the absence of Seani).  Definately has a good eye and likes to run at defenders..... that said, difficult for Ireland at the minute as the midfield is letting the side down.

Maguire has only played 15 mins of football this year due to a bad injury, and we have missed him real bad at PNE. (Glad he only played a bit part for you boys this week).  Having said that, he has pace and is as sharp as an arrow and a top finisher and i'm glad he's back.  In the 15 min cameo he made against Wigan for us last week, he set up Callum Robinson for his goal... these two have a real understanding at PNE, and that could work wonders for Ireland if they get played together.  Seani is a top striker, just needs the run of games with PNE to get back into full stride.  Sure he'll be a big asset up with Robbo for Ireland in the years to come.

Our game at PNE is to take pressure and then hit the opposition with our blistering pace (Robinson, Maguire and Barkhuizen).  Works well (though we have had a shakey start due to injuries this year, but sure this will turn around - we cant go bad over night).

Alan Browne is the one that baffles me.  He is definately one of our better players and scooped all of the POTY trophies last year.  He is a ball winner, calm on the ball, good eye for a pass, and chips in with a good number of goals..... cant understand why Cyrus Christie is preferred to him in the midifeld at all!

Back to Robinson and Maguire..... MON needs to look how they play for PNE and use this to his strength for Ireland.... pace, goals and a general threat that can work wonders for ROI if he uses them..... i'd play Robbo and Maguire either side of a main striker (take your pick), as Robbo and Maguire can both do a good job dropping back when not in possession and then hitting the opposition on the break with pace and creativity.

Cheers guys.