Dagenham v Pompey: Opposition view

The season has not been particularly fun to cover, with not too much enjoyment for the fans either.
Joss Labadie, left, in action against Mansfield this season Picture: Steve UttleyJoss Labadie, left, in action against Mansfield this season Picture: Steve Uttley
Joss Labadie, left, in action against Mansfield this season Picture: Steve Uttley

At times you think it is going to turn around, like a 2-1 win at Northampton in September.

Then there was the 1-0 victory at AFC Wimbledon in November – the same month when Plymouth equalised in the last minute.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

Consistency has been the issue – and the Daggers will be hoping they can repeat their midweek display against Morecambe.

John Still’s side won 2-1 on Tuesday night, only the second home victory in all competitions this season.

The first only arrived last month, with victory over fellow relegation rivals York.

Hopefully, that result will give them a bit more confidence, especially having been a first match in 17 days.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

During that period, a match was called off through Andre Boucaud, Justin Hoyte and Clevid Dikamona on international duty.

For another, Oxford United had the Johnstone’s Paint Trophy final instead.

Before that break, Jamie Cureton looked a shadow of himself, bereft of confidence.

Yet he returned looking his usual self, taking the ball around the Morecambe keeper to score.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

In that match, the team had so much pace in the first-half, taking a 2-0 lead after 30 minutes. However, they dropped deep in the second, which made it a nervy ending.

If they can play the full 90 minutes like that first-half and replicate earlier performances against teams at the top then you never know.

Pompey fans may be familiar with Josh Passley, who seems to have a good rapport with Daggers fans and many hope will be around again next season.

He started the campaign at right-back but you do think he might be better in right midfield, considering his attack-minded nature.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

Wayne Burnett did eventually play him in a more advanced role and he did quite well. Now Still has been doing the same.

At the moment he is not in the team, but has made a good impact and credit to him.

Another summer recruit, Nyron Nosworthy, has not been involved since January.

What struck me about him is, for a guy who has played more than 100 times in the Premier League, his control is so poor!

Although, he probably has been a very good influence on some of the young centre-backs.

Joss Labadie is the only one who can be named as the Daggers’ player of the year in my opinion.