I don't think it's a question of managing expectations, Dazza, if we continue to perform like that, we will be nailed on relegation candidates. The signs were all there in pre season, when we laboured against lower league opposition. I was hoping we would be better prepared and motivated for the first league game of the season, but I was hoping in vain. That showing was pathetic, and as others have said, the most disappointing aspect was the lack of attacking intent as the minutes ticked away in the second half. Its like the manager and the players don't realise that the object of the game is to score more goals than the opposition. There was no urgency, no aggresion, no plan for getting the ball into their penalty area.
The lack of O'Brien is a huge difference from the successful end of season run. I hope and pray we get this Brighton lad and he's capable of fulfilling that role. We also desperately need an effective striker. If we fail to secure both, its going to be a long old season.
I want to see a massive change of attitude on Tuesday night and on Saturday, when I'm coming over to see the first league home game.
I know Sheehan won't do it, but I'd like to see our strongest starting eleven line up against Crawley, one to start building up confidence and two to start playing attacking, scoring football. A front three of Ronald, Vip and Inoussa please.