Portsmouth Game... Things Looking up

Well it has to be said, the last game against Portsmouth was a BIG improvement on recent games. Not only the 3 points and clean sheet, but the way the team played together.... as a team. First off playing Lees in his actual position made a massive difference and makes you wonder why it wasn't done sooner. The whole back four looked very solid, and Connolly and White supported when going forward very well; Lonergan once again had a good game and has to be our most consistant performer so far this season along with Clayton.
It was great to see Snodgrass put himself about again and do what he does best, he clearly also benefitted from Connolly's support at the back. Pugh looked good, and seems a very good addition to the team. Clayton worked hard and looked class as always and McCormack put in another good shift. For me our only two concerns at the moment are Howson and Keogh.
Howson at the moment just doesn't seem on his game, the last four or five in particular he has gone missing for large periods and hasn't had much effect... Not the Howson we are used to seeing. It may be time to rest/drop him for a while and give Vayrynen a chance, who looked sharp again when he came on.
Also Keogh..... He's doing Ok, I guess... But once again didn't do much in the game except misplace passes and miss sitters. It must surely be time to start with Becchio, who is a different class and given a chance could link up well with McCormack.
Overall though, we looked like a much better team and need to stick with that back four for a while, even if they make the odd mistake. We will never have a good defence if we change it every game, and at the moment the lads who played the last game are the best we have. A good blend of youth and experience.
A few more performances like this.... and who knows.... MOT!