TALKING POINTS

Chris Wade – @tufcchris

Chris looks ahead to the game at Plainmoor

THE FIRST TEST

So here is the moment that we all knew would come. It’s arrived in September. The first big test after two awful results. If the defeat at Welling and the goal that should have been wasn’t bad enough, a 3-0 defeat in the FA Cup at Bishops Cleave in what has been described as woeful, abject etc was not what was needed. So how do the players react? There was clear embarrassment and anger from both the manager in his post-match interview, and players on social media. A reaction is definitely required.

THE IMPORTANCE OF CODY

Saturday also shone the torch on the importance of big Cody Cooke upfront. Firstly, congratulations on becoming a father. Wonderful news. But he will be welcomed back into the team with open arms at Plainmoor as he is the only player of his type in the squad. Ash and Seymour do not work that well together as they are very similar. And young Jadyn Crosbie is learning his trade, so the focal point of the attack should be back up top on Saturday.

WILL RETURNS

The loan return of Will Jenkins Davies during this week was well received amongst the Yellow Army. Contributor of 8 goals from midfield in last season’s loan spell from Plymouth Argyle, he struggled to make an impact at times in the role that he was given. But times are different now, and we have a young and progressive coach for him to learn from. Creativity through the lines and around the side of opposition centre backs has been a challenge at times this season, so his return should help that.

OVER 3000 AGAIN?

The crowds at Plainmoor in this exciting and new era have been frankly incredible. To have over 3000 for four consecutive games (including a Tuesday night game) is amazing, but the question has always been there. What happens when the weather is colder (it isn’t yet) and the results haven’t been great (they haven’t the last two)? Let’s keep backing the boys and roar them onto three points this week.

THE OPPOSITION

In a situation where three points is very important, Saturday’s visitors to Plainmoor St Albans present an excellent opportunity for just that. On paper. Winless so far and with only 2 points, we need to get in their face and up the pitch early as we did against Chippenham. An early goal feels important to set them back and to set our plan. Let’s get back on the path to our promotion dream.