Say what you will about the last few seasons, but they have been anything but dull.
Sure, there has been no shortage of dull performances, but for our purposes here at AVL there has at least been plenty of things to talk about – at times this season that hasn’t always been the case.
To be fair to the team, they haven’t given us reason to panic as of yet. Even the less exciting moments haven’t reached some of the insipid and defeatist level of two years ago. The team has ground out enough points to not be in too much trouble, and none of the defeats have been demoralising.
As the club’s recent goal drought continued, some of that old restlessness has starting to creep in – it hasn’t felt like a lack of effort per se, rather it feels more like what was occurring on the pitch simply wasn’t working.
Last week, with a rash of injuries the manager got his substitutions and tactics spot on in the second half. Having Lowton and Bacuna on the right, with Tonev on the left gave the club the width they sorely needed. Playing with two big strikers there is something to be said for being able to cross the ball as opposed to punting it up the pitch as the midfield has been stiffed.
Kozak looked much better playing with Benteke than he has playing as a lone striker. He may not be the quickest or the best leaper, but in recent games he has done a better job using his strength to get in position to win aerial duels before leaping so he is in the best position.
The statistics show that he is doing a better job in this area as well. Maybe Curtis Davies has improved since we sold him to Small Heath but, hey, lets not go too far.
If Delph has been the player of the season, Bacuna might give him a run for his money if he isn’t ready to return soon. Watching the Cardiff game, when he lined up for that free kick, I told myself that there was no chance he would score. He couldn’t possibly top his goal against Man City. When he did I was in shock. It has become clear that he needs to be further up the pitch. If Lowton can find some form again there shouldn’t be any reason to shackle Bacuna at right back.
Seeing the way the team reacted to that goal, it looked like they had been released from the burden of their failure to score. That along with getting some players back gives me hope that the performances will pick up a little bit, and that the club will amass points as the fixture list gets a little more favourable.
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