i give credit to the boys for not giving up and putting in effort until the end. but i wish that effort were channeled in smarter ways.
i'm sure the team is well aware that they have trouble breaking down a low block. it's frustrating to see that we have not changed how we play to address this weakness. yeah, we don't have the 1v1 threats on the wings like we used to and who are good at helping to break down low blocks. but there are other ways too.
We can start hitting long distance shots when they don't step out to challenge. Hit enough and they will start coming out of their block to challenge and that's when we have to be aware and send runners into the space. then it's a matter of quick and decisive passing. i think this team should be capable of that. but all we do is swing it left to right and maybe send in a hopeful cross.
tonight, the few times martins would dribble toward the block, it caused some confusion. i'm not sure why someone didn't do that more often to get them moving and defenders having to make decisions.
anyway - i still choose to believe this team has a chance at the cup. they just need to put together 5 wins. if we bomb out then let's hope this off season we can make the roster changes necessary to add quality depth where we need it... (basically everywhere).