NAC 1-2 Sparta Rotterdam
Pre Season Friendly
De Gagelrijzen (Rood Wit W in St Willebrord)
19 July 2014
So after 5 games against amateur teams that saw 43 goals scored, none conceded and two new grounds opened, NAC returned 'home' to embark on the serious part of their pre season schedule that will see them play 4 pro teams from 3 countries in 2 weeks. Regular readers will know that I rarely get too bothered either way on performances in the pre season. But I will go on record that, after this performance, I am a little concerned. This is to take nothing away from Sparta who are showing signs that their play off run last year (where they lost the final to FC Dordrecht) could well be a sign of things to come this season.
The problem I have with the yellow and blacks is that I just don't see where the goals are coming from. The front three that started were ineffective and so all were replaced; by another three even less effective. Yes, I accept that Boateng is still adjusting, fine. And yes, there is the whole issue of Stipe Perica (hopefully Chelsea will make a decision soon). But even then I don't see it.
Perhaps it was the heat getting to me.
Talking of which, I think it got to the ref as he sent off a Sparta player for a very innocuous challenge. For once players from both sides were surrounding the ref asking for him to reconsider. Jelle ten Rouwelaar even ran half the length of the pitch from his goal to argue the case as NAC captain.
Oh well, next up Dundee United and Nadir Ciftci, and you all know what will happen..........
The problem I have with the yellow and blacks is that I just don't see where the goals are coming from. The front three that started were ineffective and so all were replaced; by another three even less effective. Yes, I accept that Boateng is still adjusting, fine. And yes, there is the whole issue of Stipe Perica (hopefully Chelsea will make a decision soon). But even then I don't see it.
Perhaps it was the heat getting to me.
Talking of which, I think it got to the ref as he sent off a Sparta player for a very innocuous challenge. For once players from both sides were surrounding the ref asking for him to reconsider. Jelle ten Rouwelaar even ran half the length of the pitch from his goal to argue the case as NAC captain.
Oh well, next up Dundee United and Nadir Ciftci, and you all know what will happen..........