I think the concern is in the last few games Chorley (second half), FC United and now BPA, we have not been at our best.
In all the games, we had very little possession, and the match was played in our own half. The problem is in midfield, we can’t hold the ball or pass it around. The other issue yesterday was the difference off the ball, as soon as we picked it up Bradford pressed and closed us down, we gave them so much space.
Whilst we have got away with results in the last couple of games, Bradford were on a terrible run, FC United not much better, so when we play Spennymoor, we seriously need to up our game.
In terms of the match, why we took JJ off, when he was our only outlet going forward is beyond me. Also when he was substituted he walked straight past the manager, no handshake no thanks, they just ignored each other. Not a good sign.
Tying to make a mountain out of a mole hill about JJ. I watched it from the stands yesterday and for the record I love JJ but he looked lathergic and not at all interested off the ball.
Clee pretty much had him in his pocket, much stronger . It was going to to be either Max or JJ for Ceesay and Max was looking and getting the ball more often than JJ. Albeit Max didn't produce much all game.
JJ was just gutted to come off but it was not long after 3 rather poor crosses. He was gutted to be subbed which was great to see. He only slightly huffed and puffed. No issues at all.
The whole team looked lathergic and it was clear from my view in the stands that we were stood off them too much. We allowed players like Hurst, their 7 and 11 to play.
I agree we still need that midfielder who can calmly put a foot on the ball and pass. Moult and Richman panicked a lot yesterday and did wayward passes. Hurst looked like a midfielder we need, energetic, calm and good passer of the ball. Fawes looks like a player we don't need but maybe too early to say.
Our tempo needs upping on Tuesday. We need both full backs bobbing on, we need to improve setpieces. Let Hampson swing crosses in and not JJ. We need to be more direct in wing play, get at them and beat the fullback. You could see yesterday that we need to up our fitness levels as we looked leggy second half.