Think this touches on a pretty big point. Labadie is about 2 divisions better than McLaren. Makes a big difference having him in the middle. ITM is a lot better than Akins too.
Having been to the match today, I think this pretty much sums up our problem this season. Our first choice eleven can give anybody a game at this level, but take two or three of those players out (particularly Labadie) and the replacements just aren't up to it.
I also think 4-3-3 only works properly when Joss is in the side. He is the only midfielder with the touch of class, and attacking intent, to get close to Enoch and link the play. This afternoon they got the little interchanges going early on, which in turn brought John Welsh into the game, passing the ball to feet rather than simply hacking it around as so often happens.
Welsh was superb today, scored two goals and had a big influence on the third and was definitley MOM: his best game in a white shirt. Enoch was also awesome and tormented the Walsall back line all afternoon with his touch, strength and pace. ITM was peripheral in the first half, but worked much harder in the second, and as has already been said, just his presence and experience makes a difference as opposed to having the likes of Akins and Morrow out there.
We tore Walsall apart in the second half and could have had more goals from Cresswell (thirty yard screamer), Jennings and Moore. All told, a superb performance which should even keep the White Reviewers happy. ;-)