Blog: Colchester match a must-win for Shrewsbury Town
With just one win in the last eight games, things need to change as Shrewsbury are in free-fall writes Town blogger Robert Roden.
“It was the most inept performance since I’ve been at the club” was Graham Turner’s reaction following the defeat to Yeovil - I couldn’t agree more.
The result really hurt a lot of Town fans including myself - we are all aware that we are lacking quality within the side but fans made their feeling known after the final whistle regarding the lack of commitment and pride to wear the shirt.
The first half display was shocking, which was evident in Salop’s marking to allow Yeovil to gain an eighth minute lead. In response, the home fans had to wait 56 minutes for Salop to register a shot on target.
Trailing 2-0, to the bemusement of the supporters, Turner took off a striker only to put another one in his place. When we need three goals to win the game and we’re at home, surely you sacrifice a defender?
I went home after the Portsmouth defeat proud of my team; they showed a real desire to win game, battled hard and played some good football. But for the first time ever I came away from last night’s game feeling embarrassed; it was like watching a training session.
I know that Turner’s search for reinforcements is on-going but he has known since James Collins left the club he has needed to replace his quality and his goals which he hasn’t done. The writing has been on the wall for months and Salop aren’t going to improve until the squad is strengthened.
Interestingly, it’s not just the attack that needs investment; the defence is starting to look very vulnerable. After conceding six goals in two games, we just need to get back to basics against Colchester on Saturday.
At this early stage in the season the match is becoming a must win.