We sit behind the dugout in Bristows and I have often thought the same about the manager.Bristol_Gull wrote: ↑06 Nov 2024, 19:17 I sat right behind the gulls dugout last night and unfortunately was not impressed with either the on the field or off the field performance, but the experience was quite revealing in terms of why we are witnessing some consistent issues.
As others have noted, we had no midfield in the first half. It was frustrating to watch what actually appeared to be a reasonably well organised back and front line with a giant gulf between them, and therefore no service to the forwards and limited cover for the backline.
Whilst I was throughly unimpressed by the midfield, I think part of the problem can be explained by the off the field action, specifically Wotton and Edwards constantly barking orders from the sideline to the point that even I felt tense and confused, let alone the players!
Imagine having your boss yelling at you, telling you what to do at every turn? At one point I'm sure Foultson retorted that he didn't need to be told what to do every 2 minutes!
Frankly it felt incredibly amateur and I think could explain why there is little leadership or ownership on the pitch because the players lack autonomy - I wouldn't be surprised if this is why Threlkeld is underperforming and reluctant to step up on the field as a captain when he already has two voices from the sidelines?
Sure it's frustrating to see your players making mistakes, but turning to the bench to specifically vocalise your frustration with certain individuals is simply unprofessional.
Even when play improved in the second half with the introduction of WJD and Hasani, Wotton once again was on WJD's back having taken the shot instead of passing after bursting through the Salisbury midfield, instead of encouraging the lad who had literally been the first player to show any sign of spark!!
Whilst I do admire the passion and commitment from the sideline, I do fear that a lack of experience in leadership and management is partly to blame for the underperformance on the pitch, which is something I'd hope Neil Warnock could address through some coaching and mentorship.
Lastly, I'm not sure how it would work in terms of shape but I'd like to see Hasani, Mussa and WJD in the same lineup next game, between them there is a good amount of attacking flair and pace which will lead to goals with Cooke and Young looking up for it.
Sometimes I do think he should pipe down a bit and let the lads get on with it. It would be interesting to know the players point of view as to whether they consider it as coaching or ranting.
