Turning Things Our Way
Play-offs were still the goal, promotion would look huge for me as a manager in my first job and first season in the job. Things changed tactically, I was a sterner boss and made it clear to these boys that if they were wanting to make it they had to listen to me, and a...
A League Focus
With the unfortunate exit to Motherwell in the Scottish Cup we had to move on. We had no domestic cups to fight for at this point, and it meant the league was the focus. In reality, this is a good thing. We can fight for the play-offs and focus on simply that. However, we were...
Motherwell
"We know exactly what to do today boys, we have been over this all week. We have no real expectations on us, either.. but guess what? Motherwell do. They are at home, they are absolutely shocking in the league and are reliant on a cup run. Lets rattle them, lets play smart."
"Lets...
The Scottish Dream
I woke up early. 6AM early. The bus left at half 9 and we would arrive at Fir Park for 1, kick off at 3. I went through my message from young Porter and dropped him a reply.
"I am glad to hear you are doing well with Newcastle United. I know you are a good kid, but just to...
I woke up tired, but ready. Motherwell away is big one, an exciting one. Playing against professionals, who have played against other professionals. Players who are living the dream that my boys crave. A manager doing what I want to do, at a level I want to be at.. for a little while. Then I...
Thanks man, Motherwell will certainly be a different kettle of fish but league has to be the focus anyway. Already passed expectations by beating Alloa in cup competitions!(H)
Progress
I knew very quickly that I had to drive-home my idea and philosophies, but at the same time I didn't necessarily know myself. Our 4-4-2 wasn't working and a real change was needed. I needed to slow the game and sort out our back 4. Conceding 2/3/4 goals per game was just not on. It...
Incredibly busy and lack of response doesn't make stories easy, however, if not tomorrow - then Thursday - will have more Scottish Cup action, news from the bottom of Scottish football and more about the boy..
Thanks for those who have followed thus far!
Friendlies against big clubs are a big one people use.
Cup runs are obviously a big one too but never too easy.
Cut wherever possible on wages and ins and outs. Does make a difference.
The Scottish Cup
The Scottish Cup is one of the special things about football. Whether you are Scottish or Spanish, I just feel there is a special magic about the Scottish Cup and the FA Cup too. But the Scottish Cup has everything for it.
There is 92 teams who compete for the oldest trophy...
The Boy
I was sat on the bench at the local park and leisure centre when I finally realised what I was, where I wanted to be and why I wanted to get there. It was a very decent day, there was a family playing tennis and a few people walking their dogs and a boy.. and 15 year old boy who...