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Albion's play-off dream is over
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| Michel Kuipers is beaten by Gowers shot for Southends first goal (Photo Simon Dack) |
You can start booking those end-of-season holidays now. Albion will not be reaching the play-offs after a 2-0 defeat at Southend United tonight.
Their challenged died with a second defeat in four days, Southend consolidating their place in the top six with a fourth victory on the trot.
Two first-half goals sunk an Albion side which included Guy Butters in the centre of defence on his first start since February in place of the injured Joel Lynch.
At least Albion dropped out of the play-off hunt fighting. They gave it a go in the second half but their March exertions, when they played nine matches in 29 days, have caught up with them.
Southend's win stretched the gap between the teams to 11 points and Steve Tilson's accomplished team are now undefeated for the same number of games.
Dean Wilkins persevered with the midfield diamond which helped Albion to successive goalless draws at Nottingham Forest and Leeds on their previous two away outings.
There was an early example of the kind of slack defending which proved so costly against Port Vale at Withdean on Saturday.
Lee Barnard, prolific for Southend since his January move from Spurs, was unmarked when he headed over a cross from Mark Gower.
The Seagulls settled down after that initial scare and they had a couple of chances to get their noses in front, both for Glenn Murray.
A scuffed shot by Therry Racon fell to the feet of the former Rochdale striker 12 yards out but his effort was not cleanly struck and Darryl Flahavan made a routine save.
Midway through the first half a punt up field by Butters was headed on by Nicky Forster invitingly into the path of Murray but, as the ball bounced, his attempt drifted harmlessly wide.
Albion were severely punished for Murray's failure to take either opportunity as Southend capitalised on individual errors with two superbly-taken goals in the space of six minutes.
A pass down the line by fullback Simon Francis should have been cut out by Kerry Mayo but the ball found its way through to Gower.
The fleet-footed winger made progress before cutting infield to score with a low left-foot drive into the bottom corner.
It was a body blow for Albion but worse followed from an improbable source on the half hour.
They never really cleared their lines when a free-kick by Charlie Mulgrew from close to halfway was accidentally glanced towards his own goal by Tommy Elphick, forcing Michel Kuipers into a reaction stop with his chest.
When the ball was eventually worked back in, Butters should have dealt with it but Adam Barrett suddenly had a shooting opportunity.
The Southend skipper and centre half made the most of it with a rasping drive into the roof of the net.
Conceding two goals in swift succession, both of which were preventable during the build-up, knocked the stuffing out Albion.
It gave them a mountain to climb at a ground where they last tasted victory 34 years ago and where Southend were protecting an unbeaten League record stretching back to New Year's Day.
In their favour, at least, was the uncertainty that sometimes comes with a 2-0 lead. The dilemma for Southend was whether to stick or twist,
whereas for the Seagulls it was very much a case of win or bust.
The situation demanded adventure so Jake Robinson was introduced for the second half at the expense of Ian Westlake in a change to 4-4-2.
Robinson, operating on the right wing, made an immediate impact with a slide-rule pass through to Murray. He did the hard bit, twisting and turning past Peter Clarke before his shot was blocked by Flahavan.
It would not have counted in any case as the linesman flagged for offside. That was indicative of a frustrating evening for Murray, the sort which all goalscorers endure at some stage of their careers.
Murray went close once more in the 53rd minute with a close range header narrowly over the crossbar from Dean Cox's inswinging corner.
Albion, lifted by the lively Robinson, were much-improved after the break which left you wondering what might have been if they had been positive from the outset.
The goal they craved to get back into contention almost arrived when Forster's cross from Robinson's pass was deflected on to the roof of the net by Nicky Bailey and then Cox, stretching to latch on to Elphick's knockdown, hit the side netting.
Kuipers prevented a killer third for Southend 16 minutes from time, blocking Bailey's low shot with his feet after the home team's midfielder and top scorer skipped away from several challenges.
Alex Revell, sold to Southend for £150,000 in January, was desperate to play against his old club following a third hernia operation in less than a year since his switch from Sussex to Essex.
Revell's opportunity came with 11 minutes left in place of Barnard. He is heading for the play-offs, Albion for Luton to launch what surely now will be a meaningless climax to a fluctuating campaign.
Is that it as far as the play-offs are concerned for Albion?
9:51pm Tuesday 8th April 2008
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CommentPosted by: Frank Graham, Hove on 10:07pm Tue 8 Apr 08
Lucky w ehave such a great manager in Wilkins or the 'dream' wouldve been over long time ago. Its ALL Knights fault lcak of proper investmnet in the players how can the side compete against teams like Southend. ONE single shot at goal versus Leeds doesnt make for a great performance despite the result. [bold]DICK KNIGHT OUT[/bold]
Lucky w ehave such a great manager in Wilkins or the 'dream' wouldve been over long time ago. Its ALL Knights fault lcak of proper investmnet in the players how can the side compete against teams like Southend. ONE single shot at goal versus Leeds doesnt make for a great performance despite the result.
DICK KNIGHT OUT Posted by: king wombat, uk on 10:12pm Tue 8 Apr 08
[quote][bold]Frank Graham[/bold] wrote:
Lucky w ehave such a great manager in Wilkins or the 'dream' wouldve been over long time ago. Its ALL Knights fault lcak of proper investmnet in the players how can the side compete against teams like Southend. ONE single shot at goal versus Leeds doesnt make for a great performance despite the result. [bold]DICK KNIGHT OUT[/bold] [/quote] oh please shut up.
Frank Graham wrote:
Lucky w ehave such a great manager in Wilkins or the 'dream' wouldve been over long time ago. Its ALL Knights fault lcak of proper investmnet in the players how can the side compete against teams like Southend. ONE single shot at goal versus Leeds doesnt make for a great performance despite the result. DICK KNIGHT OUT
oh please shut up.
Posted by: bruceb, NYC on 10:25pm Tue 8 Apr 08
So the "dream" is over. In truth, that's all it ever was ... a dream. Any fool can see the current squad is not good enough to win promotion. After the mid-season turmoil re contracts and loan signings, it was remarkable we were even in contention, rather than battling against relegation. Now the task facing DK and Deano is to get rid of the dead wood - which probably amounts to nearly half the squad - and bring in a few quality players for next season. It's time to say thank you and goodbye to the likes of Mayo, Hart, Butters, Reid, Loft, Gatting and a few more besides. There's no point keeping Sullivan, Fogden, Rents and McFaul if the manager is never going to play them. By the way Dick, the time to do restructure is in the summer - NOT the middle of the season.
So the "dream" is over. In truth, that's all it ever was ... a dream. Any fool can see the current squad is not good enough to win promotion. After the mid-season turmoil re contracts and loan signings, it was remarkable we were even in contention, rather than battling against relegation. Now the task facing DK and Deano is to get rid of the dead wood - which probably amounts to nearly half the squad - and bring in a few quality players for next season. It's time to say thank you and goodbye to the likes of Mayo, Hart, Butters, Reid, Loft, Gatting and a few more besides. There's no point keeping Sullivan, Fogden, Rents and McFaul if the manager is never going to play them. By the way Dick, the time to do restructure is in the summer - NOT the middle of the season.
Posted by: WH Iteout, Basildon on 10:29pm Tue 8 Apr 08
Do Wendy and KFC Kid White ever mention the offside law to Murray? What do they do all week? It's embarrassing.
Time to give a chance to Dixon and Cobbs.
Do Wendy and KFC Kid White ever mention the offside law to Murray? What do they do all week? It's embarrassing.
Time to give a chance to Dixon and Cobbs.
Posted by: Andy, Nottm on 10:31pm Tue 8 Apr 08
All you idiots that are calling for Dick's head expect the major shareholder to just walk away?
The way it works is that someone has to buy his shareholding and i don't see anyone beating his door down to do that!!!!
We have overachieved this season as a mid-table finish was the best we could have hoped for.
I'm hopeful for next season!!!!!UP THE ALBION!!!!!
All you idiots that are calling for Dick's head expect the major shareholder to just walk away?
The way it works is that someone has to buy his shareholding and i don't see anyone beating his door down to do that!!!!
We have overachieved this season as a mid-table finish was the best we could have hoped for.
I'm hopeful for next season!!!!!UP THE ALBION!!!!!
Posted by: simon, bermuda on 10:33pm Tue 8 Apr 08
nice win 4 peacehaven at southwick 2-nite
nice win 4 peacehaven at southwick 2-nite
Posted by: mark, brighton on 10:50pm Tue 8 Apr 08
sometimes its not the result that counts, we started with mayo and butters in defence, and had only 4 players who have scored for the albion starting! mr lloyd needs his head slapping if he thinks the signings of mcfaul ( butters was ill and still started ahead of mcfaul) dixon ( gatting is on bench) need i say more, thompson who never looks like scoring, and murray, who looks like he cant be bothered. i dont count the rest as they are loan signings. where was fraser tonight? the diamond is only successful if the players can play there, racon and westlake look totally last. bring in sullivan, cobbs , dixon, mcfaul.
sometimes its not the result that counts, we started with mayo and butters in defence, and had only 4 players who have scored for the albion starting! mr lloyd needs his head slapping if he thinks the signings of mcfaul ( butters was ill and still started ahead of mcfaul) dixon ( gatting is on bench) need i say more, thompson who never looks like scoring, and murray, who looks like he cant be bothered. i dont count the rest as they are loan signings. where was fraser tonight? the diamond is only successful if the players can play there, racon and westlake look totally last. bring in sullivan, cobbs , dixon, mcfaul.
Posted by: Aldershot fan, Aldershot on 11:46pm Tue 8 Apr 08
When will you people wake up you are signing the crap we could do without,he was once at Crawley.Elphick & cox are off next season,and Palace are in the play offs with a real manager.Your club is dead in the water and you all did nothing.
When will you people wake up you are signing the crap we could do without,he was once at Crawley.Elphick & cox are off next season,and Palace are in the play offs with a real manager.Your club is dead in the water and you all did nothing.
Posted by: Phil, Norwood on 12:11am Wed 9 Apr 08
Palace,Portsmouth both doing good with real managers.Your put up with any crap fans will kill your club like Bournemouth.Now fight back we don't hate you that much.
Palace,Portsmouth both doing good with real managers.Your put up with any crap fans will kill your club like Bournemouth.Now fight back we don't hate you that much.
Posted by: Loyal Fan, Brighton on 12:26am Wed 9 Apr 08
[quote][bold]Frank Graham[/bold] wrote:
Lucky w ehave such a great manager in Wilkins or the 'dream' wouldve been over long time ago. Its ALL Knights fault lcak of proper investmnet in the players how can the side compete against teams like Southend. ONE single shot at goal versus Leeds doesnt make for a great performance despite the result. [bold]DICK KNIGHT OUT[/bold] [/quote] 100% wrong. Dick Knight has 3 promotions with Adams, Taylor and McGhee. Wilkins has nothing on his record except disappointing Albions fans. Knight has to be brave an get in a manager who will get the best out of this limited squad. Knight probably won't be brave enough to do that, alas. Hence why another 12 months of stagnation is on the cards. But hell, I'll be there paying for it with my new season season ticket, why shouldn't you be too.
Frank Graham wrote:
Lucky w ehave such a great manager in Wilkins or the 'dream' wouldve been over long time ago. Its ALL Knights fault lcak of proper investmnet in the players how can the side compete against teams like Southend. ONE single shot at goal versus Leeds doesnt make for a great performance despite the result. DICK KNIGHT OUT
100% wrong. Dick Knight has 3 promotions with Adams, Taylor and McGhee. Wilkins has nothing on his record except disappointing Albions fans. Knight has to be brave an get in a manager who will get the best out of this limited squad. Knight probably won't be brave enough to do that, alas. Hence why another 12 months of stagnation is on the cards. But hell, I'll be there paying for it with my new season season ticket, why shouldn't you be too.
Posted by: MARC GEE, SURRENDEN on 1:06am Wed 9 Apr 08
Feckin rubbish. Off with Wilkins head.
Feckin rubbish. Off with Wilkins head.
Posted by: larry saunders, BURGESS HILL on 7:23am Wed 9 Apr 08
yes the play offs were a dream.Dick Night made a big mistake letting BAS Savage go everything was going well up to when he left.We went two months with out a replacement and lost to many games.Then they go and spend good money on players that are not good enough.The team also lacks leadership we need a player that will motevate the others.Have a good clear out of the daed wood including all the new players.
yes the play offs were a dream.Dick Night made a big mistake letting BAS Savage go everything was going well up to when he left.We went two months with out a replacement and lost to many games.Then they go and spend good money on players that are not good enough.The team also lacks leadership we need a player that will motevate the others.Have a good clear out of the daed wood including all the new players.
Posted by: Belloti, Worthing on 8:04am Wed 9 Apr 08
Bas Savage was crap when are people going to realise this get over it.
Bas Savage was crap when are people going to realise this get over it.
Posted by: Frank, Worthing on 8:58am Wed 9 Apr 08
So, it seems Wilkins "Diamond" has cost us again. Why after last Saturdays farce using this formation did he persist with it again?
The change to 4-4-2 in the second half last night was all too late. Wilkins should have seen this and acted sooner. Wilkins "Diamond" may have cost us a play off place.
So, it seems Wilkins "Diamond" has cost us again. Why after last Saturdays farce using this formation did he persist with it again?
The change to 4-4-2 in the second half last night was all too late. Wilkins should have seen this and acted sooner. Wilkins "Diamond" may have cost us a play off place.
Posted by: Realist, shoreham on 9:24am Wed 9 Apr 08
We have hardly any money, we play our home games at a mickey mouse "stadium" and we are going to narrowly miss out on the play-offs, surely this isn't all doom and gloom is it? At the end of the day the best we will ever be is a championship side, end of story. Maybe when the stadium is built some new investor will appear in a big shiny car and we may have a bit of a run but I doubt it. One day the football league will break away from the monopoly that is the premier league and small clubs like ourselves will be able to sleep easier without the PL getting all the money. The day that the blackburn owner paid ridiculous wages to all the top players, ordinary football was over for the likes of you and I.
We have hardly any money, we play our home games at a mickey mouse "stadium" and we are going to narrowly miss out on the play-offs, surely this isn't all doom and gloom is it? At the end of the day the best we will ever be is a championship side, end of story. Maybe when the stadium is built some new investor will appear in a big shiny car and we may have a bit of a run but I doubt it. One day the football league will break away from the monopoly that is the premier league and small clubs like ourselves will be able to sleep easier without the PL getting all the money. The day that the blackburn owner paid ridiculous wages to all the top players, ordinary football was over for the likes of you and I.
Posted by: Going up with Tilly and Brush, Destination championship on 9:47am Wed 9 Apr 08
Keep the faith...You were a lot better than some of the dross that has come to Roots Hall this season..You have played us at the wrong time we are flying with confidence and we all know that helps fickle fans and Players alike...I saw plus points for you guys yesterday your CB (not Butters) was impressive as well as the litte fella Cox in Midfield was a good passer of the ball against a very strong midfield like ours ..Keep playing it on the deck and with some pace up front you should do well next season but hopefully not against us ...
Keep the faith...You were a lot better than some of the dross that has come to Roots Hall this season..You have played us at the wrong time we are flying with confidence and we all know that helps fickle fans and Players alike...I saw plus points for you guys yesterday your CB (not Butters) was impressive as well as the litte fella Cox in Midfield was a good passer of the ball against a very strong midfield like ours ..Keep playing it on the deck and with some pace up front you should do well next season but hopefully not against us ...
Posted by: Paul, winchester on 9:47am Wed 9 Apr 08
Two poor performances in last 10 has costs us dear. I would have taken top 10 at start of season.give the kids a run out for last couple of matches and finish as high as possible. great support last night again, see you at Luton.
Two poor performances in last 10 has costs us dear. I would have taken top 10 at start of season.give the kids a run out for last couple of matches and finish as high as possible. great support last night again, see you at Luton.
Posted by: James, T.Wells on 9:59am Wed 9 Apr 08
The atmosphere was great last night, a shame the performance from the players wasnt. They all looked shattered especially Cox. Westlake was really poor and I dont know why Wilkins doesnt play Robinson more. Having said that this has still been a good season, a lot of people expected us to be bottom half and we should finish top 10 and hopefully push on next year. COME ON THE ALBION
The atmosphere was great last night, a shame the performance from the players wasnt. They all looked shattered especially Cox. Westlake was really poor and I dont know why Wilkins doesnt play Robinson more. Having said that this has still been a good season, a lot of people expected us to be bottom half and we should finish top 10 and hopefully push on next year. COME ON THE ALBION
Posted by: gray, hove on 10:05am Wed 9 Apr 08
Wilkins - stop the diamond , you've cost us ! every team in the league played 8 games in march.
Wilkins - stop the diamond , you've cost us ! every team in the league played 8 games in march.
Posted by: lukas, bton on 10:18am Wed 9 Apr 08
i cant help but think what we need is strength in the middle, we have some small skilful players, but as southend showed, you need bulk as well to win it in the midfield.
WHAT DO PEOPLE THINK?
i cant help but think what we need is strength in the middle, we have some small skilful players, but as southend showed, you need bulk as well to win it in the midfield.
WHAT DO PEOPLE THINK?
Posted by: Alfie, Hove on 10:31am Wed 9 Apr 08
A few weeks ago people were saying promotion was a given, crowds were on the up, the Premiership was only a matter of time and Falmer would not only be built but packed to capacity. Funny how quickly reality takes over.
In fact, when I questioned whether we would be in the playoffs I was called an unloyal fan and a "cack badger". I prefer the term "realist". One who has been proven right too. Again.
A few weeks ago people were saying promotion was a given, crowds were on the up, the Premiership was only a matter of time and Falmer would not only be built but packed to capacity. Funny how quickly reality takes over.
In fact, when I questioned whether we would be in the playoffs I was called an unloyal fan and a "cack badger". I prefer the term "realist". One who has been proven right too. Again.
Posted by: Drew, Burgess Hill on 10:35am Wed 9 Apr 08
Let's get a reality check here. 12 months ago no one would have expected us to be fighting for a play-off place with 5 games to go. Last nights result means we now need a miracle and, not being the team in form, seems most unlikley. However, We are in a far far better position this year than last. For the first time Since 2004 we haven't faced relegation and the depressing feeling that is. How many of the whingers and moaners on this site predicted we would struggle this year? We have Falmer on the horizon and we have spent money on players. Yes, we did balance the transfer books but in the past we haven't spent much even when getting £1.5m for Virgo. Wilkins has made mistakes but hopefully he will be better for them and more prepared for next year. Lets see what happens on Saturday and whether Leeds get any points back. If it doesn't go our way then bring on some of the fringe players.
Let's get a reality check here. 12 months ago no one would have expected us to be fighting for a play-off place with 5 games to go. Last nights result means we now need a miracle and, not being the team in form, seems most unlikley. However, We are in a far far better position this year than last. For the first time Since 2004 we haven't faced relegation and the depressing feeling that is. How many of the whingers and moaners on this site predicted we would struggle this year? We have Falmer on the horizon and we have spent money on players. Yes, we did balance the transfer books but in the past we haven't spent much even when getting £1.5m for Virgo. Wilkins has made mistakes but hopefully he will be better for them and more prepared for next year. Lets see what happens on Saturday and whether Leeds get any points back. If it doesn't go our way then bring on some of the fringe players.
Posted by: Simon, upstairs on 10:59am Wed 9 Apr 08
"One Mickey Adams, theres only one Mickey Adams! For Gods sake Dick put Wilkins back with the kids where he belongs and lets start trying to WIN games not avoid defeat. I can take defeat if we go down guns blazing but I feared the worst last night when Wilkins said as long as we didnt lose we were still in the hunt in what was clearly a must win match!He played for a point again and will probably do the same at Luton and Bristol Rovers! The diamond failed us AGAIN..Only one away win since Xmas tells its own story! He waited til the game was lost to change to 4-4-2 with Jake in place of Westlake who has been disappointing since Doncaster. Come on Dick pick that phone up to Mr Adams and get the club buzzing again
"One Mickey Adams, theres only one Mickey Adams! For Gods sake Dick put Wilkins back with the kids where he belongs and lets start trying to WIN games not avoid defeat. I can take defeat if we go down guns blazing but I feared the worst last night when Wilkins said as long as we didnt lose we were still in the hunt in what was clearly a must win match!He played for a point again and will probably do the same at Luton and Bristol Rovers! The diamond failed us AGAIN..Only one away win since Xmas tells its own story! He waited til the game was lost to change to 4-4-2 with Jake in place of Westlake who has been disappointing since Doncaster. Come on Dick pick that phone up to Mr Adams and get the club buzzing again
Posted by: Roy Hills, Heathfield on 11:08am Wed 9 Apr 08
To those of us opposed to the desecration of The Downs it was never a dream. More of a nightmare!
To those of us opposed to the desecration of The Downs it was never a dream. More of a nightmare!
Posted by: terry, somewhere in west sussex on 11:09am Wed 9 Apr 08
[quote][bold]Simon[/bold] wrote:
"One Mickey Adams, theres only one Mickey Adams! For Gods sake Dick put Wilkins back with the kids where he belongs and lets start trying to WIN games not avoid defeat. I can take defeat if we go down guns blazing but I feared the worst last night when Wilkins said as long as we didnt lose we were still in the hunt in what was clearly a must win match!He played for a point again and will probably do the same at Luton and Bristol Rovers! The diamond failed us AGAIN..Only one away win since Xmas tells its own story! He waited til the game was lost to change to 4-4-2 with Jake in place of Westlake who has been disappointing since Doncaster. Come on Dick pick that phone up to Mr Adams and get the club buzzing again[/quote] Totally agree Wilkins with the diamond and defensive football will not excite the stayaway supporters into returning to Withdean.
It needs Mickey to clear the players who should have left last close season and renergise the support by bringing in a few good players. He did it before.
BRING HIM BACK BEFORE WE ALL DIE OF BOREDOM
Simon wrote:
"One Mickey Adams, theres only one Mickey Adams! For Gods sake Dick put Wilkins back with the kids where he belongs and lets start trying to WIN games not avoid defeat. I can take defeat if we go down guns blazing but I feared the worst last night when Wilkins said as long as we didnt lose we were still in the hunt in what was clearly a must win match!He played for a point again and will probably do the same at Luton and Bristol Rovers! The diamond failed us AGAIN..Only one away win since Xmas tells its own story! He waited til the game was lost to change to 4-4-2 with Jake in place of Westlake who has been disappointing since Doncaster. Come on Dick pick that phone up to Mr Adams and get the club buzzing again
Totally agree Wilkins with the diamond and defensive football will not excite the stayaway supporters into returning to Withdean.
It needs Mickey to clear the players who should have left last close season and renergise the support by bringing in a few good players. He did it before.
BRING HIM BACK BEFORE WE ALL DIE OF BOREDOM
Posted by: My name is Roy, and I'm a knob on 11:23am Wed 9 Apr 08
[quote][bold]Roy Hills[/bold] wrote:
To those of us opposed to the desecration of The Downs it was never a dream. More of a nightmare![/quote] Get back to your BNP rally, Roy.
To$$er.
Roy Hills wrote:
To those of us opposed to the desecration of The Downs it was never a dream. More of a nightmare!
Get back to your BNP rally, Roy.
To$$er.
Posted by: Falmer Fred, Falmer on 11:57am Wed 9 Apr 08
one dream buried ... hopefully the concrete calamity that will be Falmer will be dead and buried soon ! :-) Super Crawley ...
one dream buried ... hopefully the concrete calamity that will be Falmer will be dead and buried soon ! :-) Super Crawley ...
Posted by: Fred Binney's Moustache, Exiled in Surrey on 12:19pm Wed 9 Apr 08
Mmm. First time post for me. I was there last night and make the following points; First half aside, the guys did well to make amends considering the enforced absences, but yes - the misplaced passing, give-aways and lack of ball control was very worrying. There is a plain lack of confidence from Glenn Murray - his touch was off by miles, but that will change. The mazy run that should have ended in a goal was classy, but the killer finish deserted him. I do understand the feelings from those around me at the game, but really - his time will come next season. Foster is a real steal - a class act and leader -chasing, purposeful and threatening - teams don't like playing against him. I won't enter into the Wilkins debate - he is still learning his trade and given another season will hopefully produce the team we will be proud of. I'm not sure about Dean White - I do think we need a change there, don't believe he brings much to the party.
Do please keep the faith...it really hasn't been a bad season when you compare the recent past!
Mmm. First time post for me. I was there last night and make the following points; First half aside, the guys did well to make amends considering the enforced absences, but yes - the misplaced passing, give-aways and lack of ball control was very worrying. There is a plain lack of confidence from Glenn Murray - his touch was off by miles, but that will change. The mazy run that should have ended in a goal was classy, but the killer finish deserted him. I do understand the feelings from those around me at the game, but really - his time will come next season. Foster is a real steal - a class act and leader -chasing, purposeful and threatening - teams don't like playing against him. I won't enter into the Wilkins debate - he is still learning his trade and given another season will hopefully produce the team we will be proud of. I'm not sure about Dean White - I do think we need a change there, don't believe he brings much to the party.
Do please keep the faith...it really hasn't been a bad season when you compare the recent past!
Posted by: withdean smiler, brighton on 1:09pm Wed 9 Apr 08
[quote][bold]Roy Hills[/bold] wrote:
To those of us opposed to the desecration of The Downs it was never a dream. More of a nightmare![/quote] desecration of the downs by 4rse! have you actually even bothered to check the location of the new stadium or have you just relied on info you've been fed? its an arable field bordered by three roads and immediately adjacent to a university campus which has increased possibly ten times in size over the last 20 years!
designated 'aonb' maybe but it isn't exactly a medieval wood or preserve of rare newts!
if that sort of holier than thou protesting is all some of you people have in your lives you really should get out more!
and they say that bha supporters at withdean "whinge"!
separately i agree, the diamond wasn't working last night and was happy when we went 4-4-2; but i always am. let's not forget that southend are going very well at the moment too.
the play-offs were a pleasant possibility but in my opinion, in our circumstances, top ten is a worthy achievement.
falmer when it happens will make a massive difference
:0)
Roy Hills wrote:
To those of us opposed to the desecration of The Downs it was never a dream. More of a nightmare!
desecration of the downs by 4rse! have you actually even bothered to check the location of the new stadium or have you just relied on info you've been fed? its an arable field bordered by three roads and immediately adjacent to a university campus which has increased possibly ten times in size over the last 20 years!
designated 'aonb' maybe but it isn't exactly a medieval wood or preserve of rare newts!
if that sort of holier than thou protesting is all some of you people have in your lives you really should get out more!
and they say that bha supporters at withdean "whinge"!
separately i agree, the diamond wasn't working last night and was happy when we went 4-4-2; but i always am. let's not forget that southend are going very well at the moment too.
the play-offs were a pleasant possibility but in my opinion, in our circumstances, top ten is a worthy achievement.
falmer when it happens will make a massive difference
:0)
Posted by: sam on 1:19pm Wed 9 Apr 08
Well said withdean smiler! Yes we could have made the play offs, and yes on a good day with a following wind we might have won but we are not yet a champioship side and I would rather see us winning than struggling. Last night was awful, I thought that after Saturday Wilkins would have put some fire into the team but in the first half we were always a yard behind Southend, passing was awful and not a lot of heart. I agree with others that once we changed from the silly diamond AND brought on Jake (smart move - not leaving it till 80 mins or so!!) we were better. Forster played as if his life depended on it (as it may do) but the rest were still poor. We spoke to a lovely Southend man in McDonalds on the way home and he said we were unlucky to hit them when they are in such good form!!
On a different note, I didn't think I would ever praise Withdean for much but at least we have a PA system you can hear rather than a muffled noise and boy are we ladies served well on the toilet front. 4 cubicles at Southend and 1 of those was under about an inch of water!!!!
Well said withdean smiler! Yes we could have made the play offs, and yes on a good day with a following wind we might have won but we are not yet a champioship side and I would rather see us winning than struggling. Last night was awful, I thought that after Saturday Wilkins would have put some fire into the team but in the first half we were always a yard behind Southend, passing was awful and not a lot of heart. I agree with others that once we changed from the silly diamond AND brought on Jake (smart move - not leaving it till 80 mins or so!!) we were better. Forster played as if his life depended on it (as it may do) but the rest were still poor. We spoke to a lovely Southend man in McDonalds on the way home and he said we were unlucky to hit them when they are in such good form!!
On a different note, I didn't think I would ever praise Withdean for much but at least we have a PA system you can hear rather than a muffled noise and boy are we ladies served well on the toilet front. 4 cubicles at Southend and 1 of those was under about an inch of water!!!!
Posted by: Yorky Seagull, at work, so dont tell the boss i am on here on 2:45pm Wed 9 Apr 08
Before you all whine on about Wilkins/Knight out, consider this how much the club has progressed this year.
Forster/Murray now as opposed to Savage/Revell a year ago, who would you prefer.
Elphick compared to Butters?
Falmer becoming a reality.
The biggest value signing in many years in Murray.
A higher points total this season than last.
We got further in FA cup than last year.
Everything this season has been an improvement, so what if we do not make play offs, we are going in the right direction with slow and sustainable growth.
Before you all whine on about Wilkins/Knight out, consider this how much the club has progressed this year.
Forster/Murray now as opposed to Savage/Revell a year ago, who would you prefer.
Elphick compared to Butters?
Falmer becoming a reality.
The biggest value signing in many years in Murray.
A higher points total this season than last.
We got further in FA cup than last year.
Everything this season has been an improvement, so what if we do not make play offs, we are going in the right direction with slow and sustainable growth.
Posted by: Kevin, Eastbourne on 2:52pm Wed 9 Apr 08
Was there last night and thought we were unfortunate to go a goal down at the time we were having a good spell of pressure.. Bit of bad luck with the first and too much space for the 2nd although the guy could of been having an early shower for raising his hands at Cox.. Would of taken top ten finish at the beginning of season better then scrapping for survival!!
4 Games 4 Wins???????
Was there last night and thought we were unfortunate to go a goal down at the time we were having a good spell of pressure.. Bit of bad luck with the first and too much space for the 2nd although the guy could of been having an early shower for raising his hands at Cox.. Would of taken top ten finish at the beginning of season better then scrapping for survival!!
4 Games 4 Wins???????
Posted by: Dale, Southend on 3:50pm Wed 9 Apr 08
I am an Albion fan living in Southend so the stick has been xoming all day. I went last night but the thing that struck me was the amount of times our players kept slipping / falling over. No Southend players had this trouble, did our players have studs in or had they been greased by the opposition!!?? With their first goal we had FOUR players hit the deck from the moment their move started to the time the ball hit the net (excluding Kuipers dive). Something to look at me thinks! I thought the first half we were non existent, second half better but never looked like scoring. Not end of the world tho, as others have said we are not going down which is a major improvement. Some additions needed for next season so fingers crossed an Albion fan wins the Euromillions big time as thats the only way we are getting investment. Cricket season nearly here, hopefully Sussex can cheer us all uo a bit!! Up the Albion.
I am an Albion fan living in Southend so the stick has been xoming all day. I went last night but the thing that struck me was the amount of times our players kept slipping / falling over. No Southend players had this trouble, did our players have studs in or had they been greased by the opposition!!?? With their first goal we had FOUR players hit the deck from the moment their move started to the time the ball hit the net (excluding Kuipers dive). Something to look at me thinks! I thought the first half we were non existent, second half better but never looked like scoring. Not end of the world tho, as others have said we are not going down which is a major improvement. Some additions needed for next season so fingers crossed an Albion fan wins the Euromillions big time as thats the only way we are getting investment. Cricket season nearly here, hopefully Sussex can cheer us all uo a bit!! Up the Albion.
Posted by: Chicken Run Supporter, Goldstone retail park on 4:44pm Wed 9 Apr 08
the only diamond that ever worked was the one that Richard Burton bought Elizabeth Taylor. The only youth team coach
who was effective when
promoted was Percy Johnson(Old Nactonians 1923).
What's the point of keeping Wendy when DK picks the team anyway ? About time we had a massive clear out and stopped doing things on the cheap. PLEASE come back Mickey !
the only diamond that ever worked was the one that Richard Burton bought Elizabeth Taylor. The only youth team coach
who was effective when
promoted was Percy Johnson(Old Nactonians 1923).
What's the point of keeping Wendy when DK picks the team anyway ? About time we had a massive clear out and stopped doing things on the cheap. PLEASE come back Mickey !
Posted by: Stuart, brighton on 5:04pm Wed 9 Apr 08
Go back to the start of the season when these pages were filled with comments like were going down and we have no chance, now we've had a genuine challenge for a play off place people are still winging and moaning!
I think Murray has looked good at times since signing but also lazy and not bothered at times! When the ball is put into the box he fights for it, wins headers and scores goals like towards the end on Saturday when we finally put a couple of decent balls in he won them and scored. But I believe that the laziness may come from the fact that there is no competition for his starting place. He knows that no matter how badly he plays he’ll start the next game regardless.
On the face of it we have a very good starting 11 and the basis for a promotion winning team next season is there. But next season we could really do with Hinse and Reid fit for the majority of the season as that would be like having 2 good new players. A new left back is a must as Wilkins obviously has no faith in Rents and Mayo is just not good enough. We also need wingers, players who can beat the full back and put a decent ball into the box for our attackers to attack, and a back up striker so that Forester and Murray have competition for there starting place and so that we have someone who can come on and possibly change the game if we are losing!
I fear though that I may be asking for to much and that the board will not be prepared to invest properly in the squad like it is needed as the majority of the oversized squad that we have are simply not good enough!
Go back to the start of the season when these pages were filled with comments like were going down and we have no chance, now we've had a genuine challenge for a play off place people are still winging and moaning!
I think Murray has looked good at times since signing but also lazy and not bothered at times! When the ball is put into the box he fights for it, wins headers and scores goals like towards the end on Saturday when we finally put a couple of decent balls in he won them and scored. But I believe that the laziness may come from the fact that there is no competition for his starting place. He knows that no matter how badly he plays he’ll start the next game regardless.
On the face of it we have a very good starting 11 and the basis for a promotion winning team next season is there. But next season we could really do with Hinse and Reid fit for the majority of the season as that would be like having 2 good new players. A new left back is a must as Wilkins obviously has no faith in Rents and Mayo is just not good enough. We also need wingers, players who can beat the full back and put a decent ball into the box for our attackers to attack, and a back up striker so that Forester and Murray have competition for there starting place and so that we have someone who can come on and possibly change the game if we are losing!
I fear though that I may be asking for to much and that the board will not be prepared to invest properly in the squad like it is needed as the majority of the oversized squad that we have are simply not good enough!
Posted by: Royster, Brighton on 5:14pm Wed 9 Apr 08
[quote][bold]Falmer Fred[/bold] wrote:
one dream buried ... hopefully the concrete calamity that will be Falmer will be dead and buried soon ! :-) Super Crawley ... [/quote] There are two words that should never go together "super" and "Crawley".
Falmer Fred wrote:
one dream buried ... hopefully the concrete calamity that will be Falmer will be dead and buried soon ! :-) Super Crawley ...
There are two words that should never go together "super" and "Crawley".
Posted by: Royster, Brighton on 5:17pm Wed 9 Apr 08
[quote][bold]Stuart[/bold] wrote:
Go back to the start of the season when these pages were filled with comments like were going down and we have no chance, now we've had a genuine challenge for a play off place people are still winging and moaning! I think Murray has looked good at times since signing but also lazy and not bothered at times! When the ball is put into the box he fights for it, wins headers and scores goals like towards the end on Saturday when we finally put a couple of decent balls in he won them and scored. But I believe that the laziness may come from the fact that there is no competition for his starting place. He knows that no matter how badly he plays he’ll start the next game regardless. On the face of it we have a very good starting 11 and the basis for a promotion winning team next season is there. But next season we could really do with Hinse and Reid fit for the majority of the season as that would be like having 2 good new players. A new left back is a must as Wilkins obviously has no faith in Rents and Mayo is just not good enough. We also need wingers, players who can beat the full back and put a decent ball into the box for our attackers to attack, and a back up striker so that Forester and Murray have competition for there starting place and so that we have someone who can come on and possibly change the game if we are losing! I fear though that I may be asking for to much and that the board will not be prepared to invest properly in the squad like it is needed as the majority of the oversized squad that we have are simply not good enough! [/quote] Very good post!
Stuart wrote:
Go back to the start of the season when these pages were filled with comments like were going down and we have no chance, now we've had a genuine challenge for a play off place people are still winging and moaning! I think Murray has looked good at times since signing but also lazy and not bothered at times! When the ball is put into the box he fights for it, wins headers and scores goals like towards the end on Saturday when we finally put a couple of decent balls in he won them and scored. But I believe that the laziness may come from the fact that there is no competition for his starting place. He knows that no matter how badly he plays he’ll start the next game regardless. On the face of it we have a very good starting 11 and the basis for a promotion winning team next season is there. But next season we could really do with Hinse and Reid fit for the majority of the season as that would be like having 2 good new players. A new left back is a must as Wilkins obviously has no faith in Rents and Mayo is just not good enough. We also need wingers, players who can beat the full back and put a decent ball into the box for our attackers to attack, and a back up striker so that Forester and Murray have competition for there starting place and so that we have someone who can come on and possibly change the game if we are losing! I fear though that I may be asking for to much and that the board will not be prepared to invest properly in the squad like it is needed as the majority of the oversized squad that we have are simply not good enough!
Very good post!
Posted by: WH Iteout, Basildon on 5:19pm Wed 9 Apr 08
Stuart - I think you are right about Wendy's lack of faith in Rents and Mayo. Perhaps the answer is Sonny Cobbs, but Wendy and the KFC Kid haven't realised it yet. Otherwise I would suggest Jordan Parkes at Watford.
Stuart - I think you are right about Wendy's lack of faith in Rents and Mayo. Perhaps the answer is Sonny Cobbs, but Wendy and the KFC Kid haven't realised it yet. Otherwise I would suggest Jordan Parkes at Watford.
Posted by: never wrong dave, Brighton on 6:54pm Wed 9 Apr 08
[quote][bold]gray[/bold] wrote:
Wilkins - stop the diamond , you've cost us ! every team in the league played 8 games in march. [/quote] Very Very Very good post.
gray wrote:
Wilkins - stop the diamond , you've cost us ! every team in the league played 8 games in march.
Very Very Very good post.
Posted by: Paul, Hove on 7:28pm Wed 9 Apr 08
[quote][bold]terry[/bold] wrote:
[quote][bold]Simon[/bold] wrote: \\\"One Mickey Adams, theres only one Mickey Adams! For Gods sake Dick put Wilkins back with the kids where he belongs and lets start trying to WIN games not avoid defeat. I can take defeat if we go down guns blazing but I feared the worst last night when Wilkins said as long as we didnt lose we were still in the hunt in what was clearly a must win match!He played for a point again and will probably do the same at Luton and Bristol Rovers! The diamond failed us AGAIN..Only one away win since Xmas tells its own story! He waited til the game was lost to change to 4-4-2 with Jake in place of Westlake who has been disappointing since Doncaster. Come on Dick pick that phone up to Mr Adams and get the club buzzing again[/quote] Totally agree Wilkins with the diamond and defensive football will not excite the stayaway supporters into returning to Withdean. It needs Mickey to clear the players who should have left last close season and renergise the support by bringing in a few good players. He did it before. BRING HIM BACK BEFORE WE ALL DIE OF BOREDOM[/quote] Totally agree. No promotion plus a moderate start next season plus Wilkins style football = 4,000 crowds next season. Our remaining fans seem to be immune to the rubbish served up. BRING BACK MICKY!
terry wrote:
Simon wrote: \\\"One Mickey Adams, theres only one Mickey Adams! For Gods sake Dick put Wilkins back with the kids where he belongs and lets start trying to WIN games not avoid defeat. I can take defeat if we go down guns blazing but I feared the worst last night when Wilkins said as long as we didnt lose we were still in the hunt in what was clearly a must win match!He played for a point again and will probably do the same at Luton and Bristol Rovers! The diamond failed us AGAIN..Only one away win since Xmas tells its own story! He waited til the game was lost to change to 4-4-2 with Jake in place of Westlake who has been disappointing since Doncaster. Come on Dick pick that phone up to Mr Adams and get the club buzzing again
Totally agree Wilkins with the diamond and defensive football will not excite the stayaway supporters into returning to Withdean. It needs Mickey to clear the players who should have left last close season and renergise the support by bringing in a few good players. He did it before. BRING HIM BACK BEFORE WE ALL DIE OF BOREDOM
Totally agree. No promotion plus a moderate start next season plus Wilkins style football = 4,000 crowds next season. Our remaining fans seem to be immune to the rubbish served up. BRING BACK MICKY!
Posted by: Drew, Burgess Hill on 7:38pm Wed 9 Apr 08
[quote][bold]gray[/bold] wrote:
Wilkins - stop the diamond , you've cost us ! every team in the league played 8 games in march. [/quote] You want to check your facts before shouting crap. How many games did Southend, Notts Forest and Leeds play?
gray wrote:
Wilkins - stop the diamond , you've cost us ! every team in the league played 8 games in march.
You want to check your facts before shouting crap. How many games did Southend, Notts Forest and Leeds play?
Posted by: simon, devonshire on 10:35pm Wed 9 Apr 08
[quote][bold]Yorky Seagull[/bold] wrote:
Before you all whine on about Wilkins/Knight out, consider this how much the club has progressed this year. Forster/Murray now as opposed to Savage/Revell a year ago, who would you prefer. Elphick compared to Butters? Falmer becoming a reality. The biggest value signing in many years in Murray. A higher points total this season than last. We got further in FA cup than last year. Everything this season has been an improvement, so what if we do not make play offs, we are going in the right direction with slow and sustainable growth.[/quote] only 2'nd round this year
Yorky Seagull wrote:
Before you all whine on about Wilkins/Knight out, consider this how much the club has progressed this year. Forster/Murray now as opposed to Savage/Revell a year ago, who would you prefer. Elphick compared to Butters? Falmer becoming a reality. The biggest value signing in many years in Murray. A higher points total this season than last. We got further in FA cup than last year. Everything this season has been an improvement, so what if we do not make play offs, we are going in the right direction with slow and sustainable growth.
only 2'nd round this year
Posted by: Portsmouth fan, sussex on 12:39am Thu 10 Apr 08
I think you Brighton fans are on to many drugs.Did you see your team on TV tonight.Butters and Mayo can't even walk now,let alone run.Mayo almost put you out the league ten years and he was a very bad player then.I can't believe you people pay to watch the same crap ten years on.Your club is the joke of the south sorry to say.
I think you Brighton fans are on to many drugs.Did you see your team on TV tonight.Butters and Mayo can't even walk now,let alone run.Mayo almost put you out the league ten years and he was a very bad player then.I can't believe you people pay to watch the same crap ten years on.Your club is the joke of the south sorry to say.
Posted by: Martyn on 4:09pm Thu 10 Apr 08
To be honest Wilkins has performed miracles with the crap squad he has.
Now the task facing DK and Deano is to get rid of the dead wood. It's time to say thankyou and goodbye to Mayo, Hart, Butters, Reid, Hinshelwood, Loft and Gatting. There is no point in keeping Sullivan, Fogden, Rents, McFaul, Dixon, Chamberlain, Winterton, Cobbs, Skinner and Gargan if the manager is never going to play them.
Better to get rid of them and replace them with better albeit fewer players instead.
To be honest Wilkins has performed miracles with the crap squad he has.
Now the task facing DK and Deano is to get rid of the dead wood. It's time to say thankyou and goodbye to Mayo, Hart, Butters, Reid, Hinshelwood, Loft and Gatting. There is no point in keeping Sullivan, Fogden, Rents, McFaul, Dixon, Chamberlain, Winterton, Cobbs, Skinner and Gargan if the manager is never going to play them.
Better to get rid of them and replace them with better albeit fewer players instead.
Posted by: Bob, Lewes on 8:49am Fri 11 Apr 08
Why not come and watch Lewes? At home next Wednesday and the following Saturday where they should secure the league.
More entertainment, cheaper, beer on sale in the ground, better atmosphere...oh, and the only club in Sussex winning anything this season.
Why not come and watch Lewes? At home next Wednesday and the following Saturday where they should secure the league.
More entertainment, cheaper, beer on sale in the ground, better atmosphere...oh, and the only club in Sussex winning anything this season.
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