Bolton v FOREST.. Match thread

Another problem NL faces is that after the two Liverpool games oppositions have had the opportunity to study our players in detail. Danns suffered quickly. His two tricks letting the ball run across left to right and turning blind plus a tendency to play negative passes under pressure have all led to effective nullifying tactics. Dervite too has been sussed.. Run at him,he backs off and lacks pace. Vela, run him and be physical-lacks pace. Ream -no right foot, quick but slow acceleration and not robust, Mills good on ground but slow and doesn't challenge defensive headers, backs off, Wheater great aerially but slow - win fouls. Lonergan- to be tested aerially, pressed when kicking, can only reach half way so hold higher line and one on one fire straight at him, he will go down early and dive taking feet out of equation.

Oppositions now know all this. In addition they see that NL is favouring a slow back three and are targeting space on the flanks

In short the surprise and wow factors of the NL reign are over. Now we need players to adapt, hold positions and offer stability. And we need more physicality everywhere. Some players need a break out of the firing line

Within limited and depleted resources NL faces a tough task . Hopefully there are some weaker teams to play and we do have players with the skill levels to succeed when confident