Looked like an Arsenal match After a dangerous header in the first minute, Villanova literally did not possess the ball in the Duke half for the first 18 or 19 minutes, but despite intense pressure Duke failed to finish. Nova scored on a counter with Duke (typically) getting caught short in the back. Nova played 10, often 11 men behind the ball the rest of the match. Duke probably had 70, maybe 80% possession, but again, just couldn't make the final pass or shot count. They did have a legitimate claim for a handball in the box, but really shouldn't have had to rely on that. Wile Duke has some players with phenomenal skills, I can't say they have a phenomenal attitude, Grella in particular. Incredible footskills, but the emotional maturity of a AYSO player. Whining and bitching at the refs all match for missing fouls and calls, and worse, at his own players for not pushing the ball to him, or for not finishing as he would. If I were a scout, I'd avoid him like the plague.
I agree with everything you said. Grella might have the best ball skills of any player in the country but his attitude is embarassing at times. I also do not understand why Rennie loves having 6'7" Dudley in at striker so much. He's pretty slow, his foot skills aren't great, and while he should be a fantastic target forward, he's really not that good in the air. Wadsworth is definitely the best option to play alongside Grella (there might be an issue with Wadsworth's fitness level after off-season surgery?).
Hopefully Jepson will get back on the field soon. This group needs a leader on the field. They lost that with the graduation of Loftus and Helton who were able to keep the team focused. Jepson as captain needs to be on the field to keep these guys focused.
I'm guessing that somewhere along the line, particularly if he tries to play at the next level, someone--maybe even a teammate--will 'adjust' his attitude for him.
I think this is a really good point. Videira is the lead-by-example captain whereas Jepson is the more vocal captain. Ibeagha is a very talented replacement, but as a freshman, he just doesn't take command in the back like Tim does. Duke has looked a little unfocused so far this season and I think that Jepson's absence plays a part in that. Unfortunately, it sounds like Jepson will be sitting the bench against SLU tomorrow as well.
After tonight's game against SLU, I'll eat some crow. Obviously Rennie knows a bit more about this than I do...
Sullivan is starting his last season with Nova with a bang, that's for sure. Wonder who will be filling his shoes next season.