Two things you can be sure of when the 8th team play...

1. Andy Bitmead jnr will score

2. we will throw away a lead

Four weeks ago, 3-0 up became 3-3; three weeks ago 3-0 up finished 3-2, but only just; last week 2-1 up became 2-3.  This week, 3-2 became 3-4.  We are Kevin Keegan's Newcastle never knowing when to settle for what we have got.  7 points have been thrown away in those games because players continue to chase games we are already winning, leaving ourselves vulnerable. 

We fail to get goalside and hitting team we are already beating on the break.  Pace is one of our main strengths. 

I think the main problem is we are not a team.  Some players are still more concerned with their own performance rather than what's best for the team.  When, 4 weeks ago, Andy Bitmead tried to score from an impossible angle when he had team mates waiting for a pass in front of goal, Tom Thoroughgood was the first of many players quick to criticise and rightly so.  But then who, when in the same position this week, did the same selfish thing?  Tom, I'm sure will be quick to point out he played well but we were 3-2 up at the time and its fair to say 4-2 would have seen us go on to win.  

I do realise how enjoyable it is to play attacking football and I'm all for it ,but surely it would be more enjoyable to attack a bit less and actually win, not only games but competitions because this is a very good squad.  But as good as we are at the physical side, we are very lacking in football brains. I'm sure it will come eventually, but I'm not sure I'll still be alive to see it!

Dave Thoroughgood