Player Ratings – Bristol City (H)

A frustrating day at the office, as we lost at the Madejski for the first time in nearly a year to Bristol City on Saturday – we take a look at the players performances.

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Vito Mannone – 6 – First and foremost, he probably could have done better for the goal, but would be harsh to blame it solely on him considering it would have came through bodies and Gunter should have done better. His kicking was a plus point, very consistent which is a change from Al-Habsi.

Chris Gunter – 5 – Not one of his best games. He was rarely troubled on the left side, but didn’t offer much going forward as he has shown this season. Should have done better for the goal also, as his poor clearance caused havoc in the area.

Paul McShane – 6 – Dealt with the physicality of Diedhieu well and didn’t do much wrong.

Liam Moore – 6 – Same as McShane really. Looked a bit sloppy early on but grew into the game and made an outstanding last ditch challenge in the second half.

Tyler Blackett – 7 – A very solid game from the defender who gets a fair amount of stick. He defended very well and looked much more composed on the ball compared to what he usually does.

Joey van den Berg – 6 – Joey was very sloppy in the first half, but was much improved in the second. Still takes too many risks on and off the ball to be considered as a regular option.

Liam Kelly – 5 – His afternoon was ended early in the second half due to injury, but wasn’t his performance when given the freedom further forward. His decision making when we were in good positions in the first half was poor and often took on the shot rather than playing the pass.

Leandro Bacuna – 6 – Unfortunately the midfielder was largely anonymous for the majority of the game. He put himself about and tried to make things happen, but it just didn’t click.

Modou Barrow – 7 – Probably our most dangerous player throughout, could and maybe should have got Flint sent off. His pace caused an issue all afternoon and should have got a couple of assists to his name if we had a predator in the area.

Sone Aluko – 6 – Our record signing showed glimpses of what we paid for. He did seem to try a little too hard sometimes to create something which led to him losing the ball, but there was plenty of promise when he gets into full flow.

Jon Dadi Bovardsson – 5 – Everything about his game was very good apart from the finishing and that’s what he is there for I’m afraid. His hold up and link up was very good and got himself into great positions, but his finishing was non-existent. It does pose the question why we didn’t bring a natural goalscorer in over the summer.

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Dave Edwards – 6 – Good to see him make his debut and he looked busy, but was helpless to change the game when we went behind.

Garath McCleary – 6 – A few glimpses of the old GMac, but hopefully he gets up to speed soon.

Roy Beerens – N/A – Came on in the last 10 minutes and did nothing unfortunately.