BP1:
Proud of our team, proud of the effort that everyone put in this afternoon. I know we've all been saying it for a few weeks now, but the difference in attitude, fitness and commitment from last year is absolutely incredible.
Even if that had been the game and score with a 13v13 scenario, I would have applauded the players off the pitch at the end. For the first time in five derbies we gave them a game and asked a few questions of them. Would have been an interesting situation if we had somehow inched ahead during the second half, but just not quite to be today.
It's always tempting after a close game with a sending off to wonder what might have been, but it doesn't always naturally follow that if Cust hadn't gone off we would have triumphed, we'll never know on that one.
Overall, today was another example of how much progress we have made in such a short space of time and what a fantastic spirit exists between the players and how the team has quickly connected with the fan base. Thought the fans stayed positive throughout the game giving great vocal support for the full eighty.
Hate to talk about rovers, but one final point. Lewis is a great player, potentially could be even better still, but he would be better served reining in some of his crowd baiting antics. Don't think he does himself any favours with his mocking of South stand during today's second half, he's just asking for trouble if he keeps this up. I understand that a certain amount of flak may come his way, especially in a hot blooded derby, but he will be a better player if he rises above it and concentrates instead on his own game, let his talking take place on the pitch not towards supporters baiting for a rise from him.
Looking forward to the rest of our season. A lot to be excited about. We're on the move again, and in an upward direction. This team won't die for lack of effort that is for sure. It feels like we have a club to believe in and be proud of once more, the whole mood around the place is the polar opposite to twelve months ago. Roaming the range together once more for the faithful everywhere.
Great summary. One of the biggest changes is that we've brought in personnel who are genuine competitors personality-wise like Sezer, Rapana, Hardaker, Cust, Knight - makes such a difference.
