A very enjoyable evening watching Rovers, one of the best since we have been at this level.
I thought our first half performance last night was actually ok. Possession was fairly evenly shared between the two teams and some of our football in attacking areas was decent. However, Woking seemed to have an extra sharpness and confidence, reflecting recent results, and the diamond formation caused us problems once again. Despite a lot of probing we did not create many clear openings, our build up was too pedestrian and the quality of deliveries into the box from the full backs was poor. In addition, playing so narrow allowed Woking to double-up on us in the wide areas as Dagenham did at the weekend, and the back four did not look comfortable. McNulty struggled initially with Ugwu, but I think that was largely a result of us getting outnumbered in wide areas and the centre backs being dragged out of position. All of that said, Woking huffed and puffed in the first period, forcing a succession of corners and whipping balls into the box without forcing Davies to make a real save.
At half time Micky made a tactical change, switching to 433 and moving Tollitt wide and the quality of our football improved immediately. In addition to the tactical switch the players had clearly had a rocket during the interval and form the kick off we began to create chances. As you will have seen, all three goals were excellent and I was particularly pleased that Wallace was involved in the opener. Once the second goal went in we were in complete command, playing good football and looking in total control defensively for the remainder of the match.
Individually, I thought Ihiekwe and Scott Davies both did well when we were under the cosh in the first period, the latter's handling and awareness coming off his line being very good. However, the second half transformation was largely down to the performances of Tollitt and Andy Cook, who led the line and linked the play superbly. Cook made the finish for the first goal look easy when a lot of strikers would have fluffed the chance, and he is such a vital player for us with his ability to knit things together in attacking areas and provide a focal point for the team. I think his return to full match fitness was a big factor in last night's victory.
Tactically, it was clear to me that the diamond formation was ineffective once again and I would be tempted to switch to 433 permanently now. I think it is a good system for us as it allows Tollitt to play wide, without having to accommodate a more limited player like Kirby or Mekki on the other side. Equally, it allows us to play three in midfield and get the controlled possession Micky likes, while also giving greater protection defensively in the full back areas. In many ways last night's match reminded me of the Dover game where we started poorly playing in a diamond, before switching to 433 and unleashing Tollitt with devastating effect. The second half yesterday was certainly more enjoyable to watch than endless tippy-tappy stuff in the middle third of the pitch. Certainly food for thought for MM.
A great night at an unsegregated Kingfield, with about 150-200 happy SWA in attendance.
