Mid-Way

So as we draw ever closer to Christmas, we are almost at the halfway point of the season.

Personally I would say so far so good. We sit in 2nd which is a very strong position to be in and most of all, all season we've looked a hard team to beat. I wouldn't say we have looked like dominating every game, but to be honest I didn't expect that with a new manager coming in to whip the squad into shape. Personally I can take a lot of positives from that, our defence has looked extremely good, with Reid, Tomkins and Faye all looking very comfortable at the back. Another great sign has been the form of Noble who has really shined for me since Parker left, tackling hard and distributing the ball well, Faubert on the right of midfield has also looked great, he's a very good crosser which always makes him a threat and last but not least who can miss out Baldock, this little striker has scored some good hard worked goals already and he does look like a natural, something we have lacked for a couple of seasons. Another positive is from the game against Barnsley just gone, the debut of Dan Potts, son of former Hammer Steve, not only had he just signed a professional contract but he was forced into the team following an injury to Faye, he took his chance and grabbed it, he was performing well and delivered some brilliant crosses and from most fans points of view, was the true man of the match over Nolan who was chosen by the sponsors.

I have to admit though, there have been some disappointments from the team, namely Nolan, he doesn't seem to dictate the play like he used to, although he can still score a wonder goal as he has cropped up with a couple, but I would like to see a bit more from him. The other worry I've had is the teams possession, it hasn't been as good as I know these players can deliver, we do sometimes give the ball away needlessly, instead of playing the simple pass.

I won't complain too much as like I said we are 2nd and that isn't a bad spot to be in come Christmas (especially as I was pessimistic and said we'd be in the play-offs this season). But now I feel to say some things I'd like to see over the next few months.

First possession, as I said, I know these players are more than capable of knocking the ball about and keeping hold of it, rather than trying to always go forward, I would like to see them retain it a little easier, hopefully this will come as they get more use to the pressure of being the favourites. Next I'd like to see us possibly bring in another wide player, one who could play on the left and right, just incase Taylor gets injured more this season, as we tend to lack a threat on that side when he's out, although if Potts gets more chances, then you never know as he could cross. The only other thing I really want to see is for more younger players to get their chance, Potts proved they are capable enough to play at this level and I think the fact they are young will help their performance, also we have plenty of good youngsters, Potts, Ruddock, Moncur, Montano, Montenegro, Lee, Hall, Spence and Brown just to name some and I'd like to think when they are at the club and in the match squad that Big Sam should not be afraid to try them as I truly think they would play their hearts out for the club and put in some brilliant performances. Come on Sam, give youth a chance (especially if we are winning by 3 goals).

Is there anything others would like to see? Let me know your views!