Relentless Forrest a blast from O’Neill era

James Forrest’s cross for Odsonne Edouard’s equaliser yesterday was like a goal from the Martin O’Neill era, when so much of our play was about getting crosses to drop in front of goal.  It contrasts with the ball across the face of goal, or pulled back, which we more commonly see today.  The difference in styles reflects the difference in personnel, but it often takes variation to prise open a packed defence.

While Odsonne continues to grab the headlines, James’ has an equal claim to the Most Valuable Player title.  He was relentless yesterday.

Fair play to Kilmarnock, their 6-3-1 formation required a couple of exceptional goals to break their resolve.  They will do all right this season, or at least, better than their early results suggested.

Six games, six wins, 21 goals for and four against is impressive form.  We won two from our opening six last season, scoring only six goals.  The same this season would have Newco in the kind of frenzy not seen since their Petrofac Cup win.  While we bossed them at Ibrox, they are hanging in there.  Both teams will be taxed between now and Christmas as the Europa League group stage progresses.