On face value you might draw that conclusion.

It's clear that maintaining shape is drilled in to them, but I don't think that it's purposely defensive/negative per se.

We were all commenting on the growing confidence yesterday after the pelanty. I wonder whether the re-inforcement of doing the basics in training is making the players over-think/over-complicate things in match time. It's often said the more you try to avoid making mistakes, the more chance you'll have of making them.

What is clear to me is that each and every player wants to do his absolute best for himself and the team. They are working hard for Hughton, and the team spirit is there and burning bright for all to see... eg the team bundle onto Bassong after Fer's goal was great. If Seb felt disappointed to be benched yesterday, he was made to feel very much part of the team's victory. Little things like that cannot be under-estimated in the grand scheme of things.

Could this be the start of another nice un-beaten run in to Christmas? Success breeds confidence etc etc.

Posted By: Jim Nasium, Nov 10, 12:51:24