Originally Posted by
AfricanBluebird
Great write up Paul.
On Cardiff City TV they did, probably accidentally, put the name of the trialist on the teamsheet, so I did note it but it isn't a name I was familiar with. I thought he did very well. Pace, skill and very strong - scored one and a pre assist for the second.
Overall its a delight watching the U23s - they play the same system as the first team but with pace, passing, tenacity and organisation that is missing from the first team. While players positions are a little more fluid at U23 level at least they play to the players strengths. not weaknesses... the wing backs develop into wingers or wing backs... rather than centre backs!
Interestingly, everyone seems to know their role and take responsibility for it. I was struck by the closing down by the midfield players which restricted Charlton from shooting too often from outside the box... quite a contrast to the first team. The wingbacks also know exactly how to stretch the game, cross and pick out a pass.... again the contrast.. I can't think of may long balls which we made on purpose... most long balls the U23 team plays are clearances when under pressure or when spotting runners going in behind defences. That is credit to the midfield players who come and look for the ball, use it well, the movement in front and to the side of them and also the defenders who are quite comfortable on the ball.