Northampton Town secured a 2‑1 win over Solihull on Saturday, giving manager Chris Hogg a clear glimpse of his tactical blueprint ahead of the Carabao Cup clash with Leicester City. The Cobblers finished pre‑season with two wins, two draws and two defeats, but the Solihull performance highlighted a brave, possession‑based approach that could reshape their league campaign.
Who impressed in pre‑season?
Connor Evans delivered a confident debut, operating between the lines and often linking with Warhurst. His energy and knack for finding space culminated in a tap‑in from Swyer’s cut‑back, signalling a promising start for the young forward. Meanwhile, Jack Perkins earned a midfield berth, even covering left‑back duties against Cambridge, suggesting he may start the season as a first‑choice midfielder.
What does Hogg’s formation tell us?
The Cobblers have experimented with a fluid 4‑4‑2 out of possession, but their attacking shape resembles a flexible 3‑5‑2. Logan Briggs frequently drifts inside as a left‑sided number 10, while Evans drops into a right‑sided ten role. Width is supplied by Kamarai Swyer and Harvey Saunders on the right, with James Maxwell overlapping on the left. Janoi Donacien tucks in to form a back three alongside Jon Guthrie and Elliott Moore, granting players licence to roam and swap positions.
Why does playing out from the back matter?
Hogg’s emphasis on building from the back produced moments of brilliance against Solihull, despite a few risky passages that saw the Cobblers lucky against Cambridge. The approach underlines a desire for purposeful, brave football, aiming to play through, around or over opponents rather than relying on long‑ball tactics. This philosophy could be vital as the club sits 24th in League One, with 35 points from 42 games and a recent run of five losses.
What lies ahead for Northampton Town?
The upcoming Carabao Cup opener against Leicester City will test Hogg’s ideas against Premier League opposition. If the Cobblers can maintain their attacking intent, they may improve on a season where they have scored 35 goals while conceding 62, sitting 58 points behind league leaders Lincoln. The pre‑season insights suggest a squad ready to adapt, but consistency will be key to turning the tide in League One.
