As Hector Kyprianou’s off-balance “shot” went wide of the goal on Sunday, it was the perfect representation of the match. POSH have been in great form for a while now. The loss combined with the performance were relatively uncharacteristic of life at London Road recently. There were moments when the players showed the understanding and fluidity that fans have become accustomed. Unfortunately, it wasn’t consistent enough to find the net or create many chances. For some, it seems be more than just a loss to a highly rated Championship side. They view it as an indication of bigger problems or impending doom if we’re promoted to the Championship. It’s just unbalance!
Played two weeks earlier, I’d be willing to bet (and I’m not a betting man) that POSH win this match. Leeds’ poor recent form aside. The POSH squad was balanced at that time. Although there are several stars within the team, the collection of the pieces and how they interrelated is far more important. The loss of Kioso and Bilokapić caused uncertainty in the play of a side whose success has come from understanding the tendencies of their teammates and being able to predict their movements accurately. Kioso’s recall does NOT mean that we need to sign him at all costs. He is a good player, no doubt. However, it is not him specifically that needs to return. It is the balance and understanding. Whether Katongo or Knight or someone else, Ferguson has proven that he can get these players to meld together. It just doesn’t happen overnight. The defeat is not a sign of anything more than a bit of time is needed to get the balance back. And I know that many love the FA Cup but this was a great result on so many levels.
- It takes away the distraction from league play.
- Fergie can “audition” a few alignments and personnel combinations in order to see what really works.
- The message can be sent to the players (honestly) that they need to improve to reach Championship standards.
- This is EXACTLY what Fergie signed up to do. Take a young squad filled with unpolished diamonds and get them to play great football together. The departure of one (or more) spells opportunity for others, not doom for the collective.
Over the years, I’ve never been shy about my support for Darren and I won’t be now! This transfer window will be difficult, no doubt. Peterborough United is not Wrexham. We need to sell assets to progress the club forward. So if Edwards, JCH, EMC, Poku, RJJ, Knight and Burrows were all to go in this window, I know one thing for certain. Fergie will get a new set of players up into the promotion places as soon as humanly possible. It’s what he does! It’s who he is! POSH we are!
The Leeds loss was a blessing. Onward! Forward!
Pete
Huryk Unlimited 