actor out on loan

goonerlings 3: latics 0 (carling cup)
simpson 43,68 vela 71
the milwall loaner's first start in an senior game. and what about goal no.3 ......

the latics were to be an altogether different proposition to the blades (but in the end, only marginally). expected a more torrid time but things happen when you are having fun and have the commitment and skills to back you up. there's a refreshing thread of natural teamwork and selflessness running through this and the earlier game. i don't care how great a player you are, when you have 3 hyperactive hobbits hounding you whenever you get the ball throughout 90 odd minutes, you'll lose the plot. seniors should take note.

some have said that there's no pressure on the kids ... really? surely pressure must be seen in it's context. you're 17, you're trying to break into the 1st team (your future depends on it, it's your chosen profession init?), there's at least a coupla other guys who can play in your position and who've got the skills and maybe more experience, you're actually playing other 1st teams (well, mostly), the whole world is watching (well, maybe an eighth :-)), your manager (not just any manager but le gaffer) is watching, the odd national team manager is watching, the fans are watching, there's a real trophy up for grabs, it's a knockout competition ... get real.

work in progress they may be but them children provide heaps of fun ... and isn't that what it"s all about? when i really want to get serious and worry about things, i clock in at my office.