Donovan Pines

He was shocking in the few games leading up to his injury, and gets caught the wrong side of his man far too often. But I think some of those more recent performances are being extrapolated to represent his entire time with us. I think what I'm trying to say is, I don't think there's a need to label him to the extreme that's been done in this thread. He's a limited 3rd division defender, he's had good and bad games. My Peter Handyside reference was more for satire, I wasn't saying he's the worst defender we've had, nor was I trying to draw comparisons to Pines.

 

It's a difficult one I thought it was going to be a big season for Pines but it's not worked out that way. Once he got settled here and got his fitness up I thought his size and ability would make him a top league 1 defender. It's not gone that way so i would not take the option and free up his wages, big summer coming up biggest for many a year.

 

He’s not the worst defender we’ve had, but he’s probably playing slightly above his natural level.

Saying that, with his attitude I can see him being a good influence in the dressing room tbf, even when he’s not playing.

Whatever happens, I’ll remember him for his positives and the undoubted effort he puts in.

Was he a bad signing? No - he does show flashes, has a good attitude and has scored a few. Players like him are worth the gamble (Dike worked out for us). If Aaron Iseka had half of his personality and endeavour, he’d have been mint.

 

I don't think anyone is doing that. He's universally liked as a person. But with his form throughout this season, injury issues and players we have coming back in the summer, it would be for the best if we don't take up the extra year.

 

I think I was in a grumpy mood last night when I initially read this thread back, so it seemed worse than what it is. Though there are two references that he isn't a professional footballer though, which are harsh.

 

He'd be as effective as Cosgrove; maybe give away less free-kicks.

 

Playing in a very fragile defence and behind a midfield that offers little protection added to the fact that he's been dipped in and out of the side certainly hasn't helped to get the best out of him.
Good luck to him whatever happens in the summer.

 

I think he's worth another year. But as backup to Roberts, and only ever asked to do what every centre half in Division 3 should be asked to do - head and kick it far away.

 

I had real hope in Pines, after his early performances, before injury. Unfortunately the hope was misplaced. His positional sense as a defender is poor. I'd rather try with some of the younger lads, who at least have a chance of improvement.

He seems a great character though and I wish him all the best. Pretty sure he'll get an offer in the States.

 

The lad has taken a lot of flak and makes mistakes. But he has been the saviour on a few occasions as well. I think he's worth another year. The first half at Wycombe he was immense. Him and Killip. An error for the pen admitted, although when I watched it back. One of those that could have gone either way.

 

Łopata should be that backup option. Off the back of a full year in the SPL. On relative peanuts compared to Pines. More robust. Younger.

Of those out of contract, McCarthy would be the one I'd offer another year or two to, as he can play in different positions across the backline.

Opinions eh?

 

Pretty much how I see it.

I'm sure Pines is a great guy but he's never looked good IMO, way too erratic in his positioning, likes to grab hold of the forward too much and doesn't meet the ball in the air often enough. Never understood why everyone berates MDG for his play when he's the better of the two in most aspects.

 

They're both ****. Out of the defenders currently at the club I'd say only Roberts looks anywhere near good enough for a promotion chasing side and if we are being honest McCarthy is probably the second best at the moment with pines, earl and MDG well behind. Earl and MDG are in the team because we built the defence around them and haven't got any real options due to ******* them all off out on loan.

 

Hoped he d kick on and develop but with injuries etc I think his lack of footballing skills as opposed to defensive skills means I'd give others a chance who are already on the books rather than extend his contract.

 

I'm sure our DOF has better options lined up......

 

Agree with McCarthy. Can play across the back 3 and has good footwork.

Also led to believe he’s a decent pro with a good attitude - which isn’t always the case.

If he’d take an extra year, then it makes sense - we know what he’s about. Depends whether he wants regular 1st team football at his age now.

 

Robbo will give vital experience to lopata and shep next season

 

Ultra professional. Must be a Conor from Cork thing.

I don’t think he will stay to be a bit parter. He’ll get another L1 club without doubt.

 

Roberts has had a few good performances recently, but he’s had shockers too across the season. I don’t think there’s a lot between any of them and in an ideal world I would rip the lot up and start again. Could say that about 90% of the squad to be honest.

But, that’s for the club to fix.

I haven’t seen any surprises this year. It’s going as I expected it to. Bang average.