Rousseau

We didn't execute it properly. Logically it outnumbers their midfield, and also helps nullify their counter. It also gave us decent presence up front, which caused them problems. Like I said, it was poorly executed, so it didn't look good, but it's a good option to have. The game against Cowdenbeath is a good opportunity to gain experience with it.

I'd like to see a strong side play the 4-4-2 diamond. We can make some changes for the St MIrren game at home, then back to strongest line-up for Dolly.

Polster is a RB that can play DM.

A good, solid, professional performance. Our back four dealt with everything thrown at them. Both Worrall and Katic were no-nonsense today, clearing it when they had to. I thought Jack and McCrorie -- who I think I might prefer to Jack, now, as a DM? -- dealt with everything in front. Arfield likewise got stuck in. Combined, McGregor didn't have anything to do. Our wing-play was pretty standard but effective. Really comfortable win.

It's so nice for us to have a comfortable game. Lovely.

It's missing a 'howler' metric, but... *Prepares for incoming*

I know of a couple of Scottish-based (I think?) analysts / bloggers that have been appointed by clubs recently to do their analysis for them. It is absolutely essential nowadays, whether you like it or not, that clubs have analysts. Otherwise you get left behind. In fact, one of the best bloggers / analysts of recent years, Rene Maric, is now assistant coach at FC Salzburg, who just reached the Europa League Semi-finals. Have a read: http://www.espn.co.uk/soccer/uefa-europa-league/0/blog/post/3472683/fc-salzburg-europa-league-run-and-progress-owes-much-to-rene-maric-and-marco-rose

Fair enough. I prefer the chess match to the end-to-end 'stramashes'.

No wonder Scottish football is still in the dark ages.

How is the quality of the Swedish game?

Docherty would be a good option for our diamond: has the energy to play in one of the wide roles, and an attacking threat at the tip of the diamond. Are we still in for Jake Cooper from Millwall? I was watching him in their FA Cup game against Everton. He looks quite a unit. Although, I'm not sure about his passing as they just launch it long all the time. He's won everything in the air, though, and covering well.

It depresses me having to look out for the results of the teams around us, but the 0-0 between Kilmarnock and Aberdeen is a good result for us.

Both loanees are doing well. Shame Shrewsbury couldn't hang on to the win (93rd minute equaliser). They have a replay, though.

This is the start of the thread if you want to read / watch through all of them. Some interesting stuff.

Positives from the 4-4-2 Diamond:

He also points out an issue with Jack that I think we all had an inkling about but couldn't quite pin-point. He's not making himself available and he's not breaking the lines. (It's something that Broony -- I know... -- did well. Sorry. )

This analysis is top class. It shows that Worral has qualities, but he's lacking in areas that get him caught. Also, the first pass is great, because Kent has dropped into the space to give an option. Like I've said above, both Davis and Arfield should be deeper, making themselves available for that pass in that very area. According to the video it was the one time that happened.

When you read the "Rangers can today confirm the signing of...", then read the end of the sentence:

Tragic.

I'm not defending/excusing the guy. He screwed up; big time. Even going back to the 'keeper or hoofing it long would've been better, but that wasn't my point. I was making a wider point -- albeit poorly -- about our general build-up play, which has been poor for a while.

Yes, of course. I agree 100%. I'm still incredulous that he did lose possession! It was more of a general point about our inability to pass it and build attacks through the phases. For me, Davis and Arfield should be in view, with the option to pass to. It's a structural issue, or player positioning.

It was sarcasm. I agree; It shouldn't being going in.

It is a joke; he should not be losing possession there. However, who can he possibly pass to? Other than McAuley?

It was only for a few minutes, then I was compelled to switch back. It was unstaunch. I apologise profusely.