An interesting variation on the theme/formation and in some ways from an attacking point of view probably a better concept as it allows Marvin to concentrate on going forward and won't sap his stamina (tracking back to defend), so yes I could see that as the basis for a trial (couple of games).KHFCmatt wrote:I wouldn't mind seeing this, as I've stated in the match thread - Grimes added nothing to the games against Grimsby and formerly Alty and we seem to be playing a typical lopsided formation with Johnson being our only winger in the starting XI. Grimes did perform better when moved further central in the 2nd half against Alty, however you've got to feel sorry for him as I'm sure 90% of us can see that he's not comfortable there. We have midfielders on the bench that would do a much better job than him in that role.
One of those could be Nicho as he offers us a hell of a lot with his experience and has great delivery, I would be interested to see if he could play this playmaker role. I would love to see Gittings back in the starting XI as I feel he offers us something different to what we've had in the last couple of games and that's someone in the central of midfield that can carry the ball forward, rather than always looking for a pass as soon as they receive it.
Nicho would be a better alternative to Grimes in a similar position as the former enjoys being out on the flank and is comfortable with the ball at his feet - whereas Grimes is constantly wanting to head to a more central position. For what it's worth I would go with a bit of a diamond formation.
Lewis,
Hodgkiss Gowling Dunkley Grimes/Green
Storer
Gittings Nicholson
Johnson(free role)
Gash Reid
Grimes has played the role (L/B) pre season and whilst not being a natural (pace) he could probably cope - I think in the final analysis weighing up the defensive negatives against the creative positives, it has to be a consideration. What is an major negative with carrying on with the current set up is the eroding of general team confidence. So why not give it a go ?
I think from the start of the season up to the Southport result the fans were sympathetic towards GW in that he's been dealt a poor hand and had his other hand tired behind his back - as a result most of us were prepared to give the guy the benefit of the doubt as regards tactics and style of play. BUT three defeats in four games has maybe illustrated limitations in his thinking, if it ain't bust then don't fix it could have been his motto early doors, but not now.
On balance I don't think we can be too critical of GW's approach given the circumstances, but I do wonder as to his tactical awareness and methods in getting the best from what he's got at his disposal.
Maybe circumstances (injuries)will force his hand to try something different for Saturday, but I do think he has to change his approach - and I don't mean Blissett as a lone striker.!!!
is to use Johnson as a central "striker" playing close to and off Gash. He has a tremendous shot, loads of pace etc etc and even scored with a header against Alfreton! I would absolve him of any defensive duties (although he is better at covering back this season) and tell him not to get within 50 yards of Danny Lewis.
