Re: Iam a sh**
Got to say that I was one of those who was very concerned about the situation at Deepdale in the immediate post-Davies days and weeks. I had reservations about the appointment of Simpson, but merely from the point of view that ANY change to a relatively succesful formula is risky. The loss of key players (in particular, Claude davis) made me very edgy and nervous. Put simply, if it ain't broke, don't fix it!
All that said, I am extremely pleased with our league position and the start that the team has made, although in the twelve game so far, I believe that performances haven't been all that great, with a handful of exceptions. Even last night, the first 45 was appalling, but the second 45 was great. The WBA game was an excellent spectacle from both teams and against Sunderland we were excellent for 60 minutes. If we can put itall together for 90 minutes, we are capable of giivng somebody a really GOOD hiding. On the other hand, we have got out of jail a few times, salvaging a point from some dull, uninspired performances - maybe that is the sign of a good team?
I believe Simmos' signings have been mixed - St Ledger looks a steal, a gem of the future, but Pugh leaves me stone cold and Chilvers, whilst having improved, still does not inspire confidence in me and we miss Mawene terribly. Mellor? Who knows? An inspired gamble - or an expensive crock?
The reasons for our success thus far lie in the balance somewhere between the strength of character of the squad that was here, who appear NOT to want to suffer the heartbreak of the last two seasons and the man-management and other abilities of Paul Simpson and his staff.
It is STILL very early days, with 34 games still to go and this season can still go either way - we could maintain our position or falter and finish, say, mid-table. The present situation gives us all optimism, but past experience teaches us all that nothing is certain with PNE and the caution that breeds will only drift away with the passage of time and the accumulation of points, at least until New Year, when the transfer circus begins, much of it out of our own control. The position will need to be reassessed then.
Meantime, let's enjoy the ride and use this excellent platform to build on over the next 4/5 games, 3 of which are here at Deepdale. Keep on doing just that for the next 6 months and then we can (justifiably) get carried away some time in late April 2007!
By the way, last night's comeback does speak volumes for the resilience and belief in the squad, which certainly DOES bode well. Very well done, guys.
