A completely unacceptable performance.
Last week's defeat had the feeling of a blip, but this game did not. We can question tactics, and an attack minded line up that was light in midfield, but you can't convince me that the absence of Paul Lewis was the cause of that horror show. From the first minute of this game we failed to match the enthusiasm and energy of the opposition, which astonishes me as Exeter are clearly one of the best sides in the division, and this was clearly an absolutely crucial game. We sleepwalked through that first half, showing no appetite or commitment, and losing every individual battle in all areas of the pitch. It was a shameful performance.
The display today was similar to several we saw under Jackson, with a complete lack of effort or desire. That has to bring into question the character and professionalism of these players, and events in the dressing room. What exactly are senior players like Clarke and Spearing saying and doing for that kind of dross to be deemed acceptable within the squad ? We have seen performances as poor as that in probably fifty per cent of games this season, and that can't all be put down to Jackson and Hill. They can't both be tactically clueless.
No player came out of that game with any credit, but if Manny Monthe wants his dream move in January I will happily drive him to Portsmouth (or more likely Eastleigh, which is his level based on that display). At least show some effort and professionalism if you pull on a Tranmere shirt !