23 Aug 2026 16:02:08
Crazy 20 minutes in the 1st half.
Very poor defensively.
10 men played better 2nd half, although it wasn’t difficult.
We created 2 chances 2nd half, but ultimately got what we deserved.
Can only hope players come back from injuries and new players hit the ground this week.
I predicted a fractured start to the season and I stick by it.
Can’t make this many changes and expect it to click.
Concerned about Torres’ lack of any pace. His feet just don’t seem to move.
Let’s see what this week brings in terms of incomings.
UTV! Keep the faith.
23 Aug 2026 16:19:01
A fractured start to the season was a reasonable prediction, and I think, as frustrating as it is, we're going to have to get used to a stop-start season as our younger squad develop and a new spine develops.
We all want to win every week and go nuts for game-by-game stats and performances, but the club have to think with a longer-term strategy in mind. Whilst navigating financial rules, UEFA fines, stadium rebuild and new commercial deals, they'll be analysing the situation through a much longer-term lens.
It's a bit of an overused cliche these days, but this really will be a transition season, and we'll probably be lucky to get top 10 with a decent cup run. That doesn't mean we have to throw our toys out of the pram; it's just the reality of the situation that we can't afford to maintain a top team and invest in replacements as we go like City and Arsenal can. One step back to take two steps forward. Let's just stick with them and show what real support is.
23 Aug 2026 16:19:05
Torres was poor, but he shouldn't need the pace when we've played the offside.
Matty Cash has been at the club long enough, playing the same tactics, yet he's always a yard behind everyone else. He cost us against PSG as well.
We concede 10 goals a season from his poor positioning. Why has he not learnt to stick to the line?
23 Aug 2026 17:22:24
Dbs and Rk both right in every aspect.
23 Aug 2026 18:03:48
Cash and Torres in the back four look very suspect. They seem to keep playing each other into a blind alley. Torres' clear lack of pace and thought on the ball when under pressure was a little concerning.
I said a fractured start, but wasn't expecting that performance today, particularly 1st half.
Damage limitation in the 2nd half, and, thankfully, Brighton seemed to run out of steam or lack of killer instinct. It could have been 7 or 8.
Onto the transfer window, and see what rabbits can be pulled out of the hat.