Five Takeaways from FC IOM v Brackley Town

FC Isle of Man’s pre-season got underway yesterday, with Paul Jones’ side playing National League North side Brackley Town.

Three steps above the Ravens, Brackley were close to gaining promotion to the National League last season, but Jones’ men more than held their own.

While the game ended 2-0 to the visitors, it was how the team performed that will likely matter most to Jones at this stage, here’s five things we observed:

Taking a Luke

While fans were happy to see Luke Murray back, his position was a surprise to many, as Jones utilised the big man as a defensive midfielder. While he won and saw plenty of the ball, he didn’t look at home there in the first half. As the game wore on, he grew into his role and began to do more when he picked up the ball, it will be interesting to see if this was a one-off experiment or change in role for Murray.  

He’s The One?

FC Isle of Man has, often due to necessity, chopped and changed keepers over the last two seasons, but Jones went with Ben Wilkinson from the start, perhaps as a nod to his plans for this season. He didn’t have a massive amount to do, but what he did, he did well, including a smart stop shortly before being replaced by Harry Callin.

Lack of an edge

Sean Doyle wasn’t in the squad this week and the Ravens did look a bit lightweight up front. Frank Jones put in a shift, but looked a bit isolated, while Ste Whitley and Dean Leece were required to play a slightly more defensive style than they are used to. 

The Kit 

A new season has brought a new kit and it’s certainly redder than it looked online. Knowing the Manx as we do, we’re not a bunch who like change, but this kit is smart, even if the leaf stripe has left us slightly confused. It is one that will definitely grow on us as the season goes on. The keepers’ kit meanwhile, is a thing of beauty and should be in an art gallery. 

Held their own

Above all else, Paul Jones can be happy that his side more than held their own against their opponents and, while not threatening much, they never looked outclassed. The two goals were late and came after both sides had made wholescale changes.

Brackley may have had some individual players who had a bit more flare, but the Ravens have a strong foundation, especially with the composed Al Maitland at the back and they can take this game as one with many more plusses than minuses.

Raymond?

An honourary mention here, where was Raymond?