Enjoyed what I saw tonight. Had to leave with about 5 mins to go so missed their 2nd and our equaliser though. Liked the way we lined up in the first half and it could easily be effective as it leaves enough players back to put pressure on the ball and allows McGrandles to take it and find Alston/Cooper on the breakaway. However, I do think the 4-4-2 we played after we brought Shepherd (who I think made a difference today with his pace on the counter, will be important for us this season) on looked a lot better and more dangerous. As for Rotherham, they're no doubt a good side and their players are immaculate physically but f**k me, how could you watch that on a weekly basis. Tackle hard and kick it long to the big strikers. Not exactly difficult to manage although it's effective I suppose.
Notable performances: I thought Taiwo looked tidy, not as imposing or energetic as Millar but confident enough on the ball, composed and a good passer. Ollie looked good again, can dwell on the ball but good enough. Big, physical guy which is what we need. Maybury looked OK, capable back up but I don't think he makes it into a full strength first team. Not fast enough or good enough in the air for me.
Also, I did notice how animated Houston was on the touchline in comparison to Holt.
All in all an enjoyable experience, plenty to talk about and has left me looking forward to Saturday a lot. Bring on the Shire.