The mood around Blundell Park often swings with the results, but a deeper dive into recent displays reveals more than just the scoreline. As dedicated Mariners, we demand more than just effort – we crave tactical coherence and a clear plan to unlock League Two defences and solidify our own. While the lads have shown flashes of brilliance, particularly in moments of quick transition, a consistent tactical identity seems to be eluding us in crucial spells.

Looking at our shape, Artell has largely favoured variations of a 4-3-3 or 4-2-3-1. When it clicks, our wide players provide genuine threats, stretching opposition defences and allowing space for central midfielders to break forward. The work rate, especially when pressing high, has at times been commendable, unsettling teams who try to build from the back. We've seen some robust individual performances at the back, and the passion of the Cleethorpes faithful often translates into an extra yard on the pitch.

However, the chinks in the armour have become apparent. Our midfield, the engine room of any successful side, can sometimes be bypassed too easily. This leads to our defence being exposed to direct attacks or quick counter-punches, forcing individual defenders into last-ditch heroics rather than benefiting from a cohesive unit. Second balls in the middle of the park have been a concern, allowing opponents to sustain pressure in areas that should be ours. Furthermore, going forward, we can occasionally look predictable, over-reliant on individual moments of magic rather than intricate passing movements or varied attacking patterns. When teams sit deep against us, creativity can dry up, and the isolated striker often has to battle against multiple defenders without adequate support.

So, what tweaks could elevate our game? Firstly, midfield control is paramount. A deeper-lying playmaker or an additional combative midfielder could provide the shield our back four needs while also dictating the tempo of our attacks. This might mean a more consistent 4-5-1 out of possession, collapsing into a compact block to deny central penetration, then quickly transitioning. We need players who relish the dirty work and have the vision to spark attacks from deep, not just carry water.

Secondly, attacking variation. We need more fluid movement up top. Wingers shouldn't just hug the touchline; intelligent rotations with full-backs or central midfielders could create overloads and uncertainty for opposing full-backs. Practising set-piece routines that aren't easily readable could also be a goldmine for goals in a league where fine margins often decide games. Perhaps experimenting with two genuine strikers in certain home games, or a 'false nine' to pull defenders out of position, could add an element of surprise.

Finally, defensive resilience and concentration. While individual errors happen, the collective organisation during transitions and from set-pieces needs relentless drilling. Tighter marking, clearer communication, and a disciplined maintenance of shape when under pressure are bread and butter in League Two. We often concede in spells where we look comfortable, suggesting a lapse in collective focus that needs to be ironed out.

These aren't radical overhauls, but focused adjustments that could make a significant difference. The potential in this squad is clear, and with a few tactical refinements, Artell can ensure the Mariners truly maximise their capabilities on the hallowed turf of Blundell Park. The lads are putting a shift in, now let's sharpen the tactical edge to turn effort into consistent points.