Tuesday 21 February 2012

Dour Spectacle at the Mem

In an abysmal game on a shocking pitch, Bristol Rovers held Oxford to a goalless draw at the Memorial Stadium on Saturday afternoon. United will feel frustrated not to have picked up all three points given how poorly the Pirates performed. Despite parting ways with Paul Buckle two months ago, Rovers still look drastically short of confidence and quality under new manager Mark McGhee. The boggy pitch was, quite frankly, an embarrassment and prevented Oxford from playing their intricate pass and move game. As a result, the encounter descended into a gritty, physical contest. United had the lion’s share of possession, as well as creating the most clear cut chances, yet their inability in front of goal once again cost them three points.

‘The Mem’ is a shoddy little stadium situated on the Gloucester Road in Bristol. The majority of the ground is terraced and the United fans were squeezed into a corner of the open Uplands Stand. In the open terrace, it was difficult for the U’s fans to generate much of an atmosphere, as most of the chants were lost in the whipping wind. Tied to this, the spectacle did not exactly did not really set the pulses running and so the Oxford fans were uncharacteristically muted for the majority of the game.

Manager Chris Wilder set United up in their customary 4-3-3 formation, with new loan signing Marc Wilson starting in midfield alongside Peter Leven and Andy Whing. James Constable spearheaded the front trio, with Scott Rendell and Mehdi Kerrouche either side of him. Both Rendell and Kerrouche were hugely disappointing. In particular, Kerrouche, on loan from Swindon, looked out of his depth. The Algerian lost the ball an infuriating number of times in the first half. Di Canio must be smiling on the other side of the A420; this is not the man who is going to send us on a promotion charge. Rendell was far more effectual than Kerrouche, yet was lazy and immobile. He was also presented with a golden opportunity to take the lead in the second half, but after being sent through on goal, headed the ball tamely into the hands of man of the match, Michael Poke. Oxford’s other two loan signings, Oli Johnson and Lee Holmes were amongst the substitutes for this match, but looked livelier and more composed on the ball when they were introduced. Holmes is a player that has been blighted by injuries, but has unquestionable talent. If Oxford can get him firing for the remainder of his loan spell, he could prove to be a real coup for Wilder’s side. In our match against Barnet tonight, Wilder ought to plumb for Johnson and Holmes in place of the ineffective duo of Kerrouche and Rendell.

On another note, Andy Whing must be taken out of the midfield three. He does not possess the pace, composure or ability to play in central midfield. It was revealing to attend the game with 15 of my friends from Bristol University (many of whom had never watched the Yellows before). Their assessment was that Whing was our weakest link, and I have to agree with them. Admittedly, Whing is a whole-hearted battler with bulldog spirit. However, this attribute is not enough to earn him a place in our starting eleven. Asa Hall is also a committed and physical holding midfield player, but is more comfortable on the ball than Whing and has far greater stamina. Similarly, Paul McLaren is a safer bet than Whing and ought to be restored to the starting team when fully fit. Aside from this, my friends from university thought that Constable was excellent. His hold up play, physical presence and goal scoring record rightfully make him one of the most coveted forwards in the division. As well as this, Jake Wright and Michael Duberry also won many plaudits. Wright was superb on Saturday, demonstrated when he made two perfectly timed tackles in the dying moments of the game. Our veteran defender, Duberry, complimented the elegant Wright with his powerful frame and awesome aerial presence. On the whole, the back four looked solid and this is the main positive that can be taken from the encounter.

Oxford now have three consecutive home games against Barnet, Macclesfield and Swindon. The outcome of these three matches will, quite simply, define our season.

8 comments:

  1. Class article again Buz, spot on about Whing, he is not a centre midfielder and didn't deserve to play the full 90.

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  2. Spot on Buzza. Whing gets too tight on players and without any pace means he has to make stupid fouls far too often. The sooner Wilder gets Hall back in the side the better. And if Kerrouche plays again I'll cry.

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  3. Another quality article Buz. I was at the game as well and you're dead right about Whing; the man can't play centre midfield. It actually reminded me of the time Jamie Carragher was put in central midfield for England. Keep writing

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  4. It is very refreshing to see someone right so honestly and competently. I also agree that Whing can't play in the middle, lacks creativity and just isn't mobile enough. Keep them coming Buzz

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  5. Was at the game, couldnt agree more with this article. Whing doesnt have it in him to play that fluid football the yellows are know for. well written piece. keep it up please

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  6. Having not made it to the game and only receiving inadequate match chat from Keown, this article has raised my appreciation of the plight of the lower league clubs. I did receive a photo of the playing surface and agree with your assessment of it wholeheartedly. Keep the match reports going please.

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  7. Great report as always and you're right, what an abysmal game!

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  8. Another brilliantly written blog post. Whing is quite clearly not suited to the centre of the park. Keep them coming!

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