There are not many teams that come out of a draw against Man United and are frustrated that they didn’t get all three points. Yesterday was one of them days after Van Persie’s offside strike levelled the side as the game drew to a close.
We once again proved that we can give anyone a game on our day, and we have the foundations of a team that can really push on and compete in this league. Collins furthered his reputation as a leader from the back with another exceptional display, Diame again dictated the midfield and scored a fantastic goal, and up top Carroll proved once more that he has found his form and can be dominant and battle against the best defenders in the world.
Yesterday was certainly a day to make you proud to be a hammer, not only for the magnificent work ethic but the way we played was so refreshing. Knowing that we were all but safe we went out against Sir Alex’s side knowing we had nothing to lose. We also rubbished the myth of ‘Big Sam Football’ with Diame’s goal which epitomised our quality play.
For me the great thing to see as the season has progressed is how dubious players have started stepping up to the plate. Jaaskelainen is one, the goalkeeper has been magnificent, as quelled any doubts, of which there we a few, that he had lost his touch. Others who have come on leaps and bounds, Joey O’Brien and Demel have done what has been asked and more throughout the season and again did what they had to going back and forward against the soon to be champions. In the last few weeks another player who has really proved his worth is Gary O’Niel, the player who was completely out of the equation at the start of the season has been a more than adequate replacement while Noble was out and has more quality than many had realised.
With a few additions next year we could really push on and a top half finish should be expected next season. Saturday’s fixture against Wigan should see us reach the 40 point mark with games to spare and then planning can certainly start for next season. COYI
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