Post-Match Thread and Ratings Oxford United 3, Southend United 3 (Southend win 5-3 on penalties)

[Massimo Giovanni]

If you were at the game last night it would be blatently obvious who i refer to, but while I agree fans forums are there to encourage debate and opinions, which I am all for, recently it has gone too far with regards to one player and I dont want to be responsible for another witch hunt.

I was at the game and I am not sure that you have been fair. Straker is a left back not a winger or midfield player. He got better in the 2nd half and he showed he is lacking in confidence. he often had acres of space out left but hung back too much on defensive duties, especially when we went ahead. I don't know what instructions he was getting from Cocko and PS over that side of the pitch BUT he was listening to them for sure as he was close enough AND he must have been doing what he was told. From where we sat it was frustrating see the space and wanting to push on for a fourth but that can't be all down to him as a more attacking winger option of Martin was available.
We do seem to be wanting to "flow" on our right and "stick on the left side.
With Laird back in I expect Timlin to move back out.

 

[hockleyeast1964]

for me smith was a 6 very unlucky with one goal..was a bit p.ssed at the game so can't remember which one but it was from a header:blush:

 

[Neil 24]

ha ha love it.

 

[philtalkin]

Same here! However, the two that the keeper probably should have saved at least had some power and momentum behind them to carry the ball over the line!

He should have saved 3. The ball went under him 3 times!

 

[bigmolt]

smith 3? is that based on performance or attitude? just curious.

I would of rated him on performance 5.
And knocked 2 off for his attitude, sorry should have commented at time.
He was very poor at commanding his area. IMO should have pushed the ball out of play not back towards the pen spot for first, was terible for the goal that IMO didn't go in, Again bad positioning for the other. He did make one good save, and a couple of routine ones.
As a keeper that has commanded a fee of HALF MILLION POUNDS TWICE he has no authority about him. For a 33 year old pro he should have shaken Bentley's hand at least. If I were Sturrock, I would drop him for the next three games as punishment, and see how young Bentley shapes up over those games !!