Win or Lose against Burnley...?

[Fonda]

What are people hoping for from tomorrows game against Burnley, and what do people think would be the ‘most beneficial’ result we could get? It’s obvious that winning does breed confidence, and the results against two pretty strong teams in Bristol and Exeter will have done just that. But is there a danger victory over Burnley could result in over-confidence spreading – throughout the team and the support? What we obviously don’t want is to go into the game against Burton with a casual attitude. So what would best serve the team, another win to further boost confidence, or a defeat that reminds everyone to keep our feet planted on the ground…?

[Glostergull]

Another win would keep confidence at a high level. The players are more than happy with the way things are going at the moment. But having spoken to many of them in the last week it is clear that they are aware that it is important to remain focused on the real competition and not peak too early. Well balanced attitude I call it. I don't think there is too much to worry about.

[bc-gull]

I wouldn't mind us getting a draw tbqh.

All I want though is for the team to play well, I think Ling will play his strongest side and make changes near the end of the game, if Atieno is signed he should start with Rene.

Olejnik - Should play full game
Oastler - Doesn't matter too much. 45mins+
Saah - Full game
Robbo - Full game
LRT - 45mins +
Macklin - 70mins
Eunan - full game
Mansell - full game
Morris - full game
Howe - 45mins - Kee 45mins
Atieno - full game

[Fonda]

He did say half the squad would play 70 minutes against Exeter, with changes made in the last 20. And the other half of the squad would play 70 minutes tomorrow, with changes as necessary in the last 20. If anything, the team starting tomorrow will be 'the reserves' - although Morris and Atieno (if he's actually got round to writing his name on the dotted lineby then) will presumably start.

[Regiment]

so long as we get a good performance, more minutes for the players etc, PSFs are about so much more than the result, but naturally we'd want a win. we know the starting XI will be different to that from the Exeter match, as Ling himself has said, so will give other players incentive to raise their game.

however, as the rovers fans have already been on here and kindly informed us that they beat burnley, who they also pointed out were very poor, we can expect the usual influx of gas fans if we don't beat them.

[tommyg]

Probably something like this:

Rice
Oastler Ellis Palmer Nicholson
Yeoman Lathrope McPhee Morris
Atieno Spear

Assuming Atieno signs on the dotted line. I think Leadbitter is still injured and Halpin has only just returned to full training. Will do well to win with that side if Burnley play a strong XI, but I'm sure a few have a point to prove.

[Fonda]

Oastler was one of only three players to play 90 minutes against Exeter though.

[tommyg]

Oastler was one of only three players to play 90 minutes against Exeter though.

True but there's not many options if Leadbitter is unavailable. I suppose you could go with Mansell or Robbo but then they both started the other night too and I don't think Ling has any intention of using either as a RB this season. The other alternative is McPhee, shift Yeoman inside and play Halpin (assuming he's fit).

[Fonda]

Wouldn’t be surprised to see someone promoted from the Youth Team to cover there, as has happened already in pre-season with the use of Quinn and Kudi.

[Bigman]

I think as long as we don't get a confidence-shattering spanking the result doesn't really matter. We've had a couple of good results to get the confidence up and make us fans happy, all remaining pitch time should just be about fitness levels and getting used to playing as a team.

Might be just as well to be playing a decent side who might put us under some pressure, doesn't sound like Bobby's had much to do so far, could do with some practise.

[Gibraltargull]

Are tickets for this standard pricing, or cheaper? Couldn't find anything on here or the OS, so resigned up to ask.
First time I've been in Devon for a home game in about 3 years, so I fancy popping down, but not for £18 for a friendly.

[gullno4]

Will be £10 for you

[Gibraltargull]

Then hangover permitting I'll be there, been way too long since I watched the Gulls.
Also planning on coming opening game at Burton, as I'll still be here, and I'm going Keele Uni in Sept, so Burton, Crewe, Port Vale and Chesterfield are all doable away ties for me ^.^

[Colorado Gull]

At first I wasn't able to go to this one but luckily I can now! I hope we get another victory, to keep the confidence up with the players and the fans although a draw or a small defeat won’t be soul destroying! Looking forward to it!

(edit - Is there going to be a match thread made for this game?)

[Burnley-fan-442]

Hello all.
Pre season friendlies are all about shape and fitness, however we all want to win them.
I did not go to Bristol but heard we were rubbish, however our 2 previous friendlies that I went to we were very good and won both games. Tomorrow, who knows I would sooner win but will take a good performance.
There should be a lot of Clarets there tomorrow, we had 250 plus at Bristol the other night. I am down for a weeks holiday (go nearly every year, I love the place!) but will hide away if we lose.
Good luck for the coming season, if pre season is a guide then you will do fine.