It was quite a surprise that Zola elected not to play two of his new signings – one was dropped and one is yet to play – maybe he’s got a touch of the Gary Rowetts. Notably, and disappointingly to many Bluenoses, Gleeson and Grounds both started. Unfortunately, their performances on the night did little to justify that selection.

The bench was more defensive than usual with Cotterill apparently on his bike which will please many but I’ve a feeling that he will come back to haunt us. Also Reece Brown and Otabor, two of our more talented youngsters have gone out on loan and one hopes that their moves are not the beginning of the end.

Certainly, while we looked good going forward, our defence looked decidedly brittle. Robinson was the exception with some great interceptions but Shotton strolled around like he was a cross between John Stones and Bobby Moore and that casualness was nearly punished on more than one occasion. Josh Cogley played well and got in some good crosses but was hung out to dry by Che Adams failing to track back to help prevent the one two that led to the goal.

There is undoubtedly a lack of leaders in the team and while the fragility of the defence is partly caused by midfield players being caught forward and not tracking back, the defence should be literally bellowing at them to work harder.

On the bright side, Frei looks a real talent but needs to be a bit more careful with his final ball and Stewart looked very bright when he came on…definitely an option as a supporting forward, if he can’t get in the side as a winger.