26-04-2021, 11:30 AM
(26-04-2021, 11:01 AM)Paplane Wrote:(26-04-2021, 10:52 AM)ThePromisedLand Wrote:(26-04-2021, 10:38 AM)Paplane Wrote: I think we overachieved in the first half of last season when Sabri happened upon an effective formation and lifted the players with his man management. Then we underachieved in the 2nd half of last season when said effective formation was sussed, players ran out of form (yes, you Grabban), and fatigue & injuries kicked in and we had no viable 2nd string replacements. But overall last season our over-achievement was greater than our under-achievement, hence our 7th place finish. My view is that our natural level should be around the 6th to 12th mark.
Why single out Grabban?
Because imo his inability to score goals in a team set up primarily as a defensive unit with him as the sole goal scorer (last season), was the most costly factor in the slide since Feb 2020. We had replacements for most other players (admittedly not that good) but we didn't for Grabban. He stopped scoring and we failed as a result. I maybe wouldn't have been of that opinion at the end of last season but seeing how he's continued to be poor for the entirety of this season has changed my view.
I do feel a 'bit' for Grabban. I kind of agree with what you're saying. As Hughton opted for a safety 1st policy, the chances for Grabban would dry up. And what chances you do have only magnify the fact that Grabban has always been hit and miss but if you give him plenty of chances he will get you goals.
In an injury blighted season (3 injuries?) having his goal scoring cut to about a third makes sense?
Asking any striker to play a lone furrow is a bit much. All the more when he's a natural poacher. And not a Murray or Stan Collymore type.
SA.