an update from Big Don: “A lot of other guys are negative and down in the dumps but we have to stay positive. I will try to help with that" https://www.barnsleychronicle.com/article/30954/pines-wants-30-starts-and-to-help-down-in-dumps-reds
If Donovan Pines' footballing ability was even at 10% of his enthusiasm and positivity, he'd be a world-class defender. Unfortunately, it probably hovers around the 2-3% mark. Still love him though.
I'm down in the dumps every time I watch Pines let the ball bounce when it comes towards him, instead of getting his bonce on it to clear it first time of asking.
I like Pines. Lots of good attributes. But for heavens sake man, stop letting the ball bounce. Attack it and deal with it. I suppose at least that can be coached but I'm surprised it has to be at this level.
Love his positivity and it genuinely does make a difference. However it has to be at least matched by his ability. Otherwise we might as well sign Mr. Tumble
He seems a likeable guy and at attacking set pieces, he is certainly a threat. A pity we can't adopt the American Football concept of 'special teams' to bring him on for corners and free kicks. Because there is no way he should be in a league 1 or higher defence.
If he needs that coaching into him at this stage of his career there is something wrong......it’s basic defending
Well I like him, yes he's got some faults but he has a lot of positive attributes too, they just get overlooked by the fans looking for somebody to have a go at, just because he's the current kicking post for them! Apart from anything else its not easy being a defender thrown in occasionally with ever changing personnel, he needs an extended run to make a fair judgement.
Unfortunately the players are down because we're letting in daft goals and losing matches, dropping points. He's part of the problem but keep smiling. We might manifest a win through belief.
The team are down in the dumps are they? Well blow me down with a feather! They should swap places with those in the stands. Down in the dumps? He has no concept of what Barnsley fans have had to go through since Conman strolled into town. They should all get out of the frickin dump and start showing some passion and fight every single game. Rant over!
In my humble opinion Pines has been more of an asset to the team this season than Roberts. I would pick him first.
I've wondered about that. He can certainly finish half chances when the ball is loose in the box and he's a massive nuisance at set pieces. But could he hold the line and time his runs, run the channels, hold the ball up and bring others into play, finish off a 1 on 1 regularly? I don't know the answer to that, but I wouldn't bank on it. Having said that, I'd definitely be tempted to chuck him up front if chasing the game late on.