.
Kept away until I'd calmed myself from yesterday's shambolic display. I had high hopes but they were slowly wittled away within the first 45. We looked comfortable on the ball, but playing out from goal we looked very much under pressure thanks to AFC's exceptionally high press which they stuck too for most of the game. They dod not look like scoring in the first half, and only really managed to get the first through our mistake at the back - sur eit was caused due to their press. The second came from another error in the midfield and a defensive lapse leaving Brimmer wide open.
I dont think we deserved to win, they were better on the day. There were definately factors that favoured them, their build up has ben in NZ for 3 weeks - what new team gets their first two games at home (the neix never have, I dont think). Nix had the worst possible travel back from Perth. Not an excuse just comparitively different and you can understand maybe the lack of fizz from our boys late in the game.
I loved that Rufer managed to be fit in time! He and Conchie look great together. Sheridan did well again, as did Hughes. AFC kept Nagasawa and Ishiige relatively quiet with some very physical stuff - as did we with Sakai.
Colokovski added nothing when he came on, he looked disinterested and really not up to speed, OVH would have been better or Al Taay, Rojas really didnt have time to do much, although he should have one a penalty with his first foray into the box.
Surprised at Chiefs tactics, only three subs used, stuck with the short goal kicks and playing out from the box which lead to the first goal.
We need to be better, I just hope that the 26k Nix fans come back to support the team!
I dont think we deserved to win, they were better on the day. There were definately factors that favoured them, their build up has ben in NZ for 3 weeks - what new team gets their first two games at home (the neix never have, I dont think). Nix had the worst possible travel back from Perth. Not an excuse just comparitively different and you can understand maybe the lack of fizz from our boys late in the game.
I loved that Rufer managed to be fit in time! He and Conchie look great together. Sheridan did well again, as did Hughes. AFC kept Nagasawa and Ishiige relatively quiet with some very physical stuff - as did we with Sakai.
Colokovski added nothing when he came on, he looked disinterested and really not up to speed, OVH would have been better or Al Taay, Rojas really didnt have time to do much, although he should have one a penalty with his first foray into the box.
Surprised at Chiefs tactics, only three subs used, stuck with the short goal kicks and playing out from the box which lead to the first goal.
We need to be better, I just hope that the 26k Nix fans come back to support the team!