Reflections on the Dunfermline Game
Last updated : 08 August 2005 By Firparkcorner
So, we’re on four points after two matches – a fair total – even if the performance against Dunfermline was somewhat disappointing. There are a couple of broad lessons to be learned from the last game.
A chance...
Firstly, we still lack creativity. We have some good players, indeed Hamilton is an excellent forward for us, but without Scott McDonald we lack a cutting edge. Skippy’s presence will frequently be the difference been a loss and a draw or a draw and a win. Quite what we can do to fix this problem is anyone’s guess though.
However, the second lesson is a much more pleasant one at this point in time; performance is never as important as the result. Dunfermline will rightly point out they were unfortunate to lose such a late goal but within hours of the final whistle few people will remember that other than them. We were given a very tough start to the season and we were lucky to have this match moved to Fir Park. We have taken advantage of that though and these early points will no doubt prove crucial in whatever battle we find ourselves this season.
The next two matches are tricky but eminently winnable. Even if we can sneak a draw at Rugby Park – 0-0 or 4-4, whatever – and another 1-0 win against United we will be well ahead of schedule. There are no prizes for winning in August but the points gained here will be massive when it comes to counting up at the business end of the season. The Celtic game showed we can be resilient when behind and the Pars match showed what can be gained by battling to the end, believing that the break will come.
The last two seasons have been fantastic – but already the team is showing what will be needed to improve again. Can we do it? Perhaps – it will be fun finding out!