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Andy McNabb
1 Posted 31/10/2016 at 03:51:27
Thanks goodness for that, Ken. It just isn't right without your take on events and I have been logging on all day to find your report.

I wonder if other clubs have a 'Ken B'? Not as good, of course, but someone whose report they all wait for?

Alan J Thompson
2 Posted 31/10/2016 at 03:51:32
There's still a lot to put right and we could well have been behind early in the game. Start like that next week and it'll be all over by half time.

Barkley was MotM for me but I don't think I've seen the opposition give him quite as much time and space, certainly not in the last two years.

Ajay Gopal
3 Posted 31/10/2016 at 04:35:16
Thanks for the wonderful report as usual, Ken. Much appreciated. A different perspective (slightly) from what we see on television.

As you mention, things might have been more difficult if the Hammers had taken their chances early in the 1st half, but in the 2nd half, they were really struggling with fitness, probably due to their mid-week exertions.Very glad to see Oviedo, Funes Mori, Robles having a solid game. Surprisingly the bed-rocks of Everton – Gueye, Williams, Barry had some 'iffy' moments.

Next week, I can see Cleverley coming in for Gueye. The only other change I would like see would be to swap Lennon for Mirallas. Chelsea are a formidable opponent, but I think Koeman can outfox Conte.

Tony Draper
4 Posted 31/10/2016 at 11:47:28
Consistent performer as always, Ken. Report worth reading for both accuracy and that true match day feel, thanks.

As mentioned, Gueye did not display his so-far remarkable passing accuracy. But given just how high the standard set since his arrival has been, easily forgiven for a single performance.

Then, by turns, the two lads who everyone hopes will put in "a grown man's shift", Barkley & Lukaku. More days like this please, gentlemen!

Barkley was mobile, closed down and was inventive. Lukaku was always interested and benefitted greatly from balls played up to him for him to control with chest/midriff rather than always dropping from on high.

Delighted that they both scored, fair reward for their efforts.

Oviedo was (as correctly observed above) like the Bryan we admire. It's been an extremely long road back, but he's never moaned, gone off the rails or quit. His very best is yet to come and he'll get there.

Joel, a couple of very important saves in place of the injured Stek. Genuinely looked like a 'Keeper fighting to regain approval.

Tom Cleverley, whilst I'm not normally a fan, he genuinely looked like a man on a mission when he arrived late on. Made very good use of possession and made a thorough bloody nuisance to WHU when they had the ball.

Broader comment: Many pundits were commenting upon our recent "drop in form", including our much praised away draw at City. Odd that.
Meanwhile, elsewhere, it seems that "Jurgen Street-Porter" has secured the EPL for all eternity following their utter destruction of previous favourites, erm... Crystal Palace.

Alun Jones
5 Posted 31/10/2016 at 12:21:29
Great report Ken. It's so nice to find such a wonderful summary of what I watched. I'm with you on Oviedo as well, I thought he was terrific and fully deserves the praise. Maybe Leighton can play wide left when he is fit!
Jay Harris
6 Posted 31/10/2016 at 14:23:31
Always enjoyable to read your reports, Ken.

That robber's dog doesn't half get around... maybe we could find a slot in the squad for it.

I thought Robles did well enough to justify another go, as did Oviedo, although Chelsea at the bridge will be a completely different proposition – especially in the absence of Gueye.

Paul Thompson
7 Posted 31/10/2016 at 17:09:09
I enjoyed being reminded of that incident where Bolasie tried a very silly trick by the touchline and ended up kicking it against himself and out. I didn't and don't mind – Yannick is an entertainer and his infectious enthusiasm is clearly appreciated by his colleagues.

I'm not sure, however, that there is room in the team for him and Mirallas and certainly not against Chelsea. As Ajay said above, Lennon please.

Peter Mills
8 Posted 01/11/2016 at 07:19:04
Thanks as ever, Ken. You are quite right in pointing out that we played out the match quite simply and professionally, such a change from the last home game against the Hammers.

I am even becoming comfortable when the third centre back comes on, something that often used to induce defensive chaos under the previous two managers.

Kevin Gillen
9 Posted 01/11/2016 at 22:21:53
A few observations on the game.

Firstly, well done, Robles, for coming in and keeping so well and producing a calm display throughout. Improved displays from Barkley and Oviedo and from Lukaku who even looked as if he was enjoying it for once.

It wasn't our best performance but a really sharp intervention by Bolasie broke the deadlock and we ran out worthy winners. Chuffed for our team and roll on 3 points at Stamford Bridge.

Robert Workman
10 Posted 02/11/2016 at 09:40:25
Totally agree about the late substitutions. Last season Niasse – 2-0 became 2-3. This season Cleverley and Jagielka, plus the hard working Lennon (taken off for Niasse last season) – 2-0 stayed 2-0.
Paul Underhill
11 Posted 05/11/2016 at 23:29:23
Is it only me that's noticed it seems before every International break we throw in a shocker?

If players are taking their eyes of the job in hand, this needs sorting. I'd love to know the stats...


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