Match Ratings...Vs Rushden & Diamonds

Last updated : 17 March 2004 By Rob Davies
Firstly, I just have to say that this is one of the hardest games so far this season to rate the players on, as nearly all picked up their game drastically in the second period.

(6 Average)

Pegguy Arphexad- 7, Surprisingly, had a very quiet evening. Made one save of Premiership class early on, and couldn't be faulted on either of the goals.

David Pipe- 7, Was one of the few who did himself justice in the first half, but would've been disappointed not to have been more involved when moved further forward.

Nicky Fenton- 6, Struggled against the giant physical precense of Onandi Lowe but was the more assured of the two centre halves. Unlucky when a late shot was cleared off the line.

Tony Barras- 5, Shaky. Even his strength- his aerial precense, was no use against Lowe. Whilst Mills continues to praise him, I fail to see it. Struggled all game.

Ian Richardson- 6, Poor first half but was much more assured when moved inside to centre half after the break. Came close with an 18-yard right footed strike in the first half.

Paul Bolland- 7, Was OK on the wing in the first half but had a great secod half when moved inside. Suddenly seems to be able to pass the ball....and shoot. Happy days.

Darren Caskey- 4, Terrible. No work rate, failed to track back, and couldn't even pass the ball as well as he usually does. Rightly subbed off at half time, though Oakes was just as bad on the first half showing.

Stefan Oakes- 6, 4 in the first half- 8 in the second. Looked far happier with a ball winner alongside him and more of his passes seemed to be coming off then. First half, he was terrible, really terrible.

Simon Baldry- 5, Had a nightmare out on the left wing. Playing on the other wing really shouldn't make that much difference to your all round game, so he has little excuse in my book. Lost the ball constantly and probably deserved to come off at half time.

Steve Scoffham- 7, Came through the whole 90 minutes which was a massive bonus for manager and player alike. A solid full debut by all accounts, got stuck in a lot, put himself about and seems to have great pace. Should start Saturday.

Paul Heffernan- 6, Failed to get in the game during the first period but was more involved in the second. Had a half chance to get on the scoresheet towards the end. Desperately needs a foil to take the weight off him.

Subs

Tony Scully (On 45- Baldry)- 9, Star man. Get's man of the match despite the fact he only played half the game. Ran at defenders constantly, put in some excellent crosses, and scored a cracker. Still not started a game yet at home, but that should change on Saturday.

Ian Baraclough (On 45- Caskey)- 7, Steadied the ship well. Didn't put a foot wrong and should be rightfully pleased with his much improved performance.

Not Used: Deeney, McHugh, Harrad.