Cobblers Comments

Cobblers Comments - April 2001

ENVB at 23:53:24 Monday April 30 2001
Your right Billy there are a lot of cobblers fans who live in Earls Barton and Wellingborough and do you know they are also taking an interest in whats going on at Nene Park

KC at 23:38:27 Monday April 30 2001
Did u ever play for Northampton Spencer Marriott

ENVB at 23:37:46 Monday April 30 2001
As far as sixfields leisure is concerned I have a feeling that when the Nene Park leisure is completed it will bring in far more revenue to the club than sixfields leisure does for you Now I wonder what makes me think that TRB

Marriott at 23:22:33 Monday April 30 2001
GILES - If you are referring to the nightclub as Bar Med, then I was in there too and what ever the 2 lads in there may have said to you, as they said alot to me too, I dont think you should be repeating it. I could understand Wednesday signing him, they like inconsistent Cobblers players, dont they (and they signed Barry Richardson!!) I'm not having a dig at Savvo as he was great on Saturday, he was my Cobbs MOM even if he did only play for 45mins.

billy at 23:14:25 Monday April 30 2001
ENVB - You also choose to ignore the fact that many of the Cobblers fans from Wellingborough and Earls Barton etc have been following the team for years and in many ways are more loyal than those of us moaning whingers who live in Northampton itself. Plus I doubt you'll find many Poppies fans who have jumped on your little bandwagon either.

ENVB at 23:5:13 Monday April 30 2001
I didnt miss the point I think its you thats missing the point with your vision of the big city bright light image which you seem to think means an automatic reason for success At the end of the day its about how well 22 blokes are playing on a bit of grass and where that happens counts for nothing Also it may suprise you to know that the cobblers rely very much on the support that comes from east northants It will only need you to be in the 3rd and Diamonds in the second for you to realise the error of your judgement

Hotel Ender at 22:49:28 Monday April 30 2001
Only just got home - so forgive for raking up issue with a posting from earlier today. MAD - you want someone with more experience to "help" Kevin Wilson. Forgive me, but haven't we been down that road before. I seem to recall a similar appointment a few years ago. A "managerial consultant" was the title he went by. Complete and utter waste of money should have been the other. John Barnwell - possibly almost the worst ever manager/managerial consultant. (Pat Crerand was THE worst manager).

TRB Mark at 22:15:38 Monday April 30 2001
ENVD, you missed my point you muppet. What I was saying, was with reference to location. Northampton is a much bigger place than I'boro due to it's superior geographical location and much closer to the main centres of the UK's population and if you take football out of the equation, Sixfields leisure complex is probably a much better business proposition that the proposed Diamond city. So compared to Sixfields, Nonce Park is off the beaten track and I would suggest looking at a map will bear this out. I bet if you asked Griggs purely from a business pov where he thought his leisure village would be more successful N'ton or I'boro then the answer would be the former. Any yes, your attendances are growing, but let's see how big they stay when you have your first season of struggling, unless you think you will be up there challenging Man Utd. I personally don't give a shit about Diremonds. Most of their fans are glory hunters as when I watched Irthlingborough Diamonds at Nene park in the 80's there were only about 100 people and away at places like Potton and Wotton, even less! And if you want to reply ENVD, here are a few full stops for you to borrow to make your rabid utterances at least semi legible. ~.............................~

Jamie Forrester's no#1 fan - PAUL at 21:54:28 Monday April 30 2001
Jamie Forrester RULES ok that is true u all know that ne1 think he will score agianst Walsall to get his 20th this year, i hope so at least he tries unlike Flabbiadini his doing my nutt in now anyway take care NTFC fans

Big Roy at 21:40:45 Monday April 30 2001
Sad but true ...

Barry McKenzie at 21:36:53 Monday April 30 2001
What do you mean recedntly Big Roy this board has become the home of unemployed Poppies,spotty schoolkids.Kiwi Sheep Frightners and moaning fartybums.Debate has gone and the long playing scratched Im entitled to my opinion record is all that is seen, other than the we hate diamonds record and the who posted that one anon own up record crap.It makes even the most hard of thinking fan recall with delight the days of MartinW and WSD and that is a very very sad thought.....

Big Roy at 21:27:27 Monday April 30 2001
Anon - anyone who can be "arsed" with reading Richard's postings will find the effort is well worth it. They contain a wit and eloquence sadly lacking on here recently.

????? at 21:25:36 Monday April 30 2001
No.

Anon at 21:20:11 Monday April 30 2001
Can anyone actually be arsed to read through a long posting like that?!?

RICHARD at 19:38:14 Monday April 30 2001
IK'CIWT: "Port in a stormer". This was classic 'moaner' fodder. Sod himself must have been taking notes in the stand at a game such as this when he was in the process of devising his Law. Even the mildest mannered and most supportive among us were compelled to utter oaths that had even hardened North Standers blushing. Those expecting a tired, bedraggled and lacklustre Vale outfit to succumb to their punishing end-of-season schedule, were promptly disabused of their misapprehension. The return of Thursday night football (when was the last occasion, anyone?) brought with it, not carefree attacking by relaxed, confident 2nd Division survivors but, on the contrary, clinical former 1st Division finishing and comitment to the cause from the indefatigable Valiants. 'Butter' and 'hot knife' were, indeed, the very words on many a gnarled Cobbs fan's lips, describing the ease with which our 'defence' (I use the term loosely) was consistently carved apart in a first half that was at times a pain to endure, yet overall a joy to witness, if only for the style and quality of the opposition! I managed to inveigle a staunch Chelsea supporter friend along to the game. After seasons of qualified success yet international disharmony at The Bridge, he yearns to watch 'real' football, where fans can reach out and almost touch their heroes, where highly paid foreign imports with racy lifestyles and bank balances to make you spit, are as rare a sight as a bacon baguette in the refreshment area. Having recently suffered a mild stroke, he is under doctor's orders to avoid stress and, on no account, subject himself to sustained excitement. I had just the remedy! The evening turned out to be a resounding success........at least as far as my friend's health is concerned! He was favourably impressed - by half of the players on display! He had counted by the interval the gold teeth of the majority of the Vale side who were camped for much of the first 45 minutes in our penalty area. He was only stirred from his second half recuperative somnolence when someone inadvertently dropped a pin in the North Stand! Having arrived at Sixfields just in the nick of time (no thanks to the M1 metal enema!) we heard the ref's whistle as we queued at the turnstile. This was immediately followed by what we took to be a minute's silence. Perversely remarking upon our good fortune in not missing the opening exchanges thanks to some poor departed soul, we racked our brains to figure who the recipient of these sixty solemn seconds could be. It was only when we scurried seatward that we realised to our amazement that both teams were, in fact, already beetling about the pitch and that the game had, indeed, begun, albeit in funerial quietude. Perhaps the respectful silence was for the former football team that once proudly paraded its talents here. RIP Cobblers. Roll on the Afterlife! Of the match itself, the second most striking aspect, after the Potteries 2nd XI holding us in thrall, was the beneficence of the MIG (at least, I think he was wearing green). Either the Association of League Referees has finally forgiven us the Atkins ' ARSE' (Anti Referee Scatalogical Expletives) Campaign of recent years, or the whistle blower has a particular physical affliction that allows him only to raise his arm in the direction of the away team. Needless to say, the 'Hallelujah Chorus' fervently rang out from the South Stand on the rare occasion when, obviously disoriented, the poor chap erroneously pointed in favour of Port Vale! So, having achieved (lower) mid-table anonymity, safe from ignominious and costly relegation at least for another year, we draw inexorably to season's end. Which side will turn up for the closing fixtures - the one which swelled our bosoms with pride as we strove early season for the twin peaks of promotion and playoffs, or the one which latterly has given even long-standing season ticket holders momentary cause to hesitate over automatic renewal, as we lost our footing and slid precipitously to the foothills of the Division? Let's hope the much anticipated Bournemouth outing brings sun, sand, sea and sexy football!

ENVB at 19:24:10 Monday April 30 2001
Conclusions - A club with a real future not a yo yo club thats crippled with financal cramp every year Just sit back and watch your worst fears unfold before your eyes

Gomez at 19:13:7 Monday April 30 2001
Compare: Rushdens last game = last home game before possibly (lets hope not) biggest promotion in clubs history, Northampton's last game = meaningless mid table game on a thursday night with team in poor form. Result = similar attendance at both games. Draw your own conclusions.

ENVB at 18:55:25 Monday April 30 2001
Nene Park off the beaten track TRB Mark whats that go to do with it just look at your last home attendance and compare it with yours I predict ours will get larger and yours will get smaller within the next year or so Why would Griggs want to be envious of Sickfields your council owned ground doesnt hold a candle to Nene Park and every one you speak to agrees with that

ENVB at 18:37:49 Monday April 30 2001
Mad -We could be going to Nene Park the following year Or you could even be going down as we go up

MAD at 17:9:18 Monday April 30 2001
I won't forget what he did for us. It's just a shame how it all ended.

hoops at 17:4:29 Monday April 30 2001
amid all the changes at chesterfield, i hear from a good source at the club that their former owner norton lea has been approached to join a consortium looking to take over the cobblers. He was not well liked at chesterfield but know no more.

krs-1 at 16:52:27 Monday April 30 2001
Yeah GBH was a good old boy, there's no debating that. I always used to meet my mates at the front of the Hotel and during the warm up for one game we gave it "Where's your license gone?" literally days after he'd got banned for drink driving. He looked over and gave us a little smile and wink. What a top chap.

KC at 16:50:57 Monday April 30 2001
Ok MAD that is true ur right, but u should never forget what he did for us, he really did great things for this club and i for one will never forget him for what he did.

Anon at 16:47:21 Monday April 30 2001
KC - I agree.

MAD at 16:43:28 Monday April 30 2001
I'm not having a go at what Atkins did for us. I'm saying that he fell out with a lot of the players.

KC at 16:39:41 Monday April 30 2001
Atkins was one of the greatest managers this club has had

KC at 16:37:54 Monday April 30 2001
MAD - u seem to forget that this is our first season bk in division 2 therefore we need to make sure we didnt get relegated, which we have done, we have had a very good season, and although it has fallen away a bit we can be proud of the season so far.

MAD at 16:37:6 Monday April 30 2001
Dread?! That's harsh. I used to love watching him. A right little terrier. Gave all he could in every game. Even if he was erattic at times. It's a shame he ended up on the scrap heap. I hope Savage re-signs but I'm not sure he will (there wont be a shortage of takes for him). There's a rumour that he doesn't get on with Wilson and wants away. But then again supposedly quite a few players don't. I'm sure I'm having a flash back to the Atkins days.

krs-1 at 16:28:41 Monday April 30 2001
Bloody hell MAD leave it out, there's only one match left me old son. Also, I see KW says on the news page that he is still negotiating a new contract with Savage. PS - GBH could've tried as much as he liked, he was still dread.

MAD at 16:21:41 Monday April 30 2001
Stability??!! We are not that far above the relegation zone. Lucky for us there are only a couple of games left for most. If the season was much longer we could all be upset about going down again. If we play like we are currently next season, then we'll be going to Nene Park the following year. In relation to "nothing to play for", is it so bad to expect the players to play as good as they can and give 110% in every single game. People like Darren Harmon used to try no matter what the game. If it's ok for the players to only half play at the end of the year why can't we pay half money to get in?

moaning? at 16:0:35 Monday April 30 2001
we are entitled to moan, and yes they have had a good season, but players should be judged on each performance. and on saturday we were shite! and entitled to moan, end of season it may be but it still cost a bloody fortune to get there

KC at 16:0:32 Monday April 30 2001
Im off too! i think we also need a new striker, but who i'm not really sure. Also if Savage does go then we are going to need a creative midfielder or somebody along those lines.

JDTNTFC at 15:58:56 Monday April 30 2001
Couldnt agree more KC I'll be celebrating whatever happens its been a good season and we stayed up so i aint complaining. Right im off home see ya later.

KC at 15:55:50 Monday April 30 2001
Yeah thats true JD but i cannot see many Cobblers fans wanting to celebrate the season...But i think we should as its been a season of stability, and we can look forward to next season! also we may be celebrating the fact that Diamonds have stayed down again!

JDTNTFC at 15:54:18 Monday April 30 2001
We should definately get a new striker, We need somebody quick and tall who would put pressure on jamie and gabbs to play well. I think savage will go anyway as for the rest im not sure!!

JDTNTFC at 15:50:47 Monday April 30 2001
Ritchie- im not even going to attempt to better that, well done!!lol!! Kc- even if they do we can still go on the pitch aswell, why not I dont think there would be any trouble. There were Torquay fans on the pitch with us last season!!!

KC at 15:50:19 Monday April 30 2001
Nite Richie! I hope everyone has posted their Census Forms! Who does everyone think we should keep next season? and who would people like to see brought into the club?

richie fan from nz at 15:46:2 Monday April 30 2001
im going to bed nite

KC at 15:45:53 Monday April 30 2001
JD - i expect the Walsall fans would invade the pitch yeah, but whether our stewards let them is another point altogether!

KC at 15:44:15 Monday April 30 2001
*Right

richie fan from nz at 15:44:4 Monday April 30 2001
JDTNTFC<<<<<<< if the team was playing better we would not moan about those that moan then those that moan would have nothing to moan about then we would not moan at the people moaning in the first place phewwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww

JDTNTFC at 15:43:35 Monday April 30 2001
Nice one mate!!!!!!!!!!!!!!Although if we lose wont the wallsall fans invade the pitch?

KC at 15:37:32 Monday April 30 2001
JD - Im at the bk in line with the left post, i suggest around there matey, its where the most of the songs originate from and where most of the singers are, having said that songs do originate from the roght hand side aswell!

Annoyed Fan at 15:35:49 Monday April 30 2001
Don't know mate. Im a cobblers fan, live in duston, 2 mins from Sixfield but have come to a university in Stoke, thats why i dont want them to get promoted and its why i was pissed off on Thursday.

KC at 15:33:24 Monday April 30 2001
U need not worry i have a loving female partner! Why some must post a msg as me i do not know, they obviously have a very poor life! Is it true chevvys are doing cheap drinks and a disco b4 the game on saturday?

Anon at 15:33:8 Monday April 30 2001
The cobblers may not be playing brilliant football at the minute. But I thought the idea of being a supporter is to get behind the lads and support them throught good and bad. Some people on here do nothing but put the team down and moan about how bad things are.

JDTNTFC at 15:32:26 Monday April 30 2001
Dunno yet mate, im moving from the west to the north. Where do you reccomend? I was thinking at the back in the middle. Also from what ive heard about oldham and stoke. Some stoke lads went in one of those no go areas for whites and had a big fight with the local asian community. Anyway ON THE PITCH ON THE PITCH ON THE PITCH!!!!!!!!!!!!UTC!!!FTP!!!FTD!!!!! PS stop moaning people, I find it very amusing that people have now started moaning about people moaning. So let me be the first to moan about people moaning about people moaning!

Annoyed Fan at 15:30:16 Monday April 30 2001
I was getting a bit worried then KC, as long as your sure your not like Mr Wilson, its ok.

KC at 15:28:26 Monday April 30 2001
With Regards to thje posting "look at me i'm gay" that was not from me it was some1 impersonating myself, please do something about these people Ray!

KC at 15:27:2 Monday April 30 2001
Richie - or someone would moan that we should have scored more and the forwards were pants! There is always some1 moaning about something!

KC at 15:26:45 Monday April 30 2001
Look at me, im Gay

Annoyed Fan at 15:25:59 Monday April 30 2001
Now which DICK would do that?

KC at 15:25:46 Monday April 30 2001
Richard Jennings - we meant at the end of the game! Annoyed fan - Because i don't like direones! and i also find it funny that it is taking them so long to get into the league after all the money they have spent!

richie fan from nz at 15:24:25 Monday April 30 2001
if we won 10-1 anon some dick would moan about the one we let in

richard jennings at 15:20:26 Monday April 30 2001
heyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyy leave off with the pitch invasion we not in a position to loose 3 points,silly boy.

Annoyed Fan at 15:15:4 Monday April 30 2001
To KC, why do u hope "direones" dont go up? Whats wrong if they do? If cobblers are as good as you say and think, what are you worried about if they go up?

KC at 15:4:39 Monday April 30 2001
Why do u say that Anon? anyone see wot happend at the Wrexham v Milwall game and also at the Oldham v Stoke game?

Anon at 15:2:39 Monday April 30 2001
Just looking through this board makes its hard to believe that you all support the same team.

KC at 15:1:25 Monday April 30 2001
JD - Still in the North, just with better seats this time! Where u sittin JD? Im up for a pitch invasion just for tradition! Also the players have done well for most of the season!

JDTNTFC at 14:56:55 Monday April 30 2001
I reckon we should have a pitch invasion on saturday, just for the sake of tradition. KC- where are you sitting next season? I'll be in the north stand (to sing and stand up). UP THE COBBLERS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

KC at 14:48:49 Monday April 30 2001
Well said MARK! Lets just enjoy the last game on saturday and make it a good atmosphere and have a bit of a party! I bet every single one of u moaning fans would have taken the position we r in now, at the start of the season. Im pleased with the season we have had! Lets just hope direones dont go up!

MARK at 14:43:5 Monday April 30 2001
Is that what you all do on this site is moan and slag of all the players. We have no money and a very small squad and to be 15th in div 2 i think is very good. So just stop moaning and get behind team on saturday.

Hmmm at 14:35:15 Monday April 30 2001
A consortium headed by an Italian businessman made an undisclosed offer for Northampton Town, but club chairman Barry Stonhill branded the proposal as �totally unacceptable�. And while an agent acting on behalf of the consortium said it was still interested in snapping up the club, Mr Stonhill claimed he was becoming increasingly cynical about the proposed bid. He said: �The initial wave of enthusiasm was encouraging. But as time goes by there comes more and more cynicism. �We have had several meetings and we have bared our souls to the members of the consortium. But they made a proposal which was totally unacceptable. �If something positive happens, then we will give it serious thought.� The Chronicle & Echo revealed last month that the Cobblers had become a target for the consortium since an initial approach at the end of last year. But the club told the potential new owners they were faced with a now-or-never situation and asked what they were willing to offer for the Cobblers. The proposal was then rejected. Mr Stonhill said: �They [the consortium] said they would get back to us three or four weeks ago, but we heard nothing. I contacted someone and I was told that they were still interested. �But I would take it with a pinch of salt. It is not the first proposal we have had from someone to buy the Cobblers and I am sure it will not be the last.� News of the failed take-over bid was revealed at the Cobblers� annual general meeting on Thursday. Mr Stonhill was keen to play down suggestions that the Northampton Borough Council-owned Sixfields Stadium, which is the home of the Cobblers, would be sold as part of any planned buy-out. But Mr Stonhill said: �The local authority would probably sell the ground if they had the right offer. At the end of the day it is not our decision, it is the council�s

KC at 14:31:49 Monday April 30 2001
I think we should perhaps wait till a few games into next season and then see how the team is performing, and if we still are showing relegation for them yeah lets have a moan BUT things are not that bad! I for one will be getting a season ticket again, not in the same bloody seats tho! Also that rumour about us merging with diamonds is complete bollox, the person who started it has also said on the Swindon msg board that they will be merging with Oxford.UTC.....FTP...FTD......UTC

MAD at 14:0:40 Monday April 30 2001
Phil, Phil, Phil. I can't believe you just came out with that. I hear loads of people say that Frain is in the team etc, just because of THAT goal in the final. You are a very sad individual if you think what a player did 5 years ago should mean that they are still in the team now. Even if they are now really crap. If that is the case Carlisle should get Jimmy Glass back seeing he scored that amazing goal to keep them in the league or England should have Gazza back in the team because he scored against Scotland.

neil at 13:25:43 Monday April 30 2001
in the time ive been watching the cobblers(cov fa cup) we've gone from being a very BAD 3rd div side to a good 3rd div side and at the moment an average ,but on our day awesome (millwall) 2nd div side. so can the moaners (i know its the cobblers way to moan about everything) please shut up and be thankfull were stil in business and in the league

Chris W at 13:8:33 Monday April 30 2001
I can't believe that the same people who criticise Diamonds fans for being 'fair-weather' are now saying that they aint renewing their season tickets. Talk about hypocrisy!

Chris W at 13:5:51 Monday April 30 2001
Imagine if I'd accidentally missed the 'r' out of shirt in that post...

Chris W at 13:4:22 Monday April 30 2001
*you

Chris W at 13:3:29 Monday April 30 2001
BTW, I was not suggesting that having a dirty shirt means that yo are committed - it was a sort of metaphorical thingy that I can't really find the words to explain.

Chris W at 13:1:30 Monday April 30 2001
Well said.

Phil Baron at 12:50:17 Monday April 30 2001
People seem to have a short memory on here if it was not for Frainy the Cobblers would not beaten Swansea for one and He gives more effort then some of the so called stars? If age is an issue tell that to Stuart Pearce and Winterburn? If you do not like it its simple really DONT BUY A SEASON TICKET.....go and watch the egg chasers instead?

Chris W at 12:43:35 Monday April 30 2001
How do you know that nobody came in with an offer for Frain? He put in more effort than anybody on the pitch at Bournemouth, even though this was not matched with footballing ability. Oh, and by the way - criticise his football fair enough, but don't criticise his age.

MAD at 12:40:52 Monday April 30 2001
I think that every fan that watches the Cobblers on a regular basis knows that this is the best squad that we've had(be it small) for a very very long time. But it's no good having really good players if they're not playing well and that's down to the tactics as well as their own commitment.

MAD at 12:36:27 Monday April 30 2001
It's quite obvious why John Frain signed his contract in less than 5 minutes. He knew that he was on a really good thing. No other sane football manager would have given him a 1 year contract let alone a 2 year one. So I don't think it's because he is wonderfully committed it's just that he's not stupid. Who else would want him? And the crap about him having the dirtiest shirt what a joke. Having a dirty shirt doesn't make you more committed than someone with a clean one. The real reason he had a dirty shirt is because he kept collapsing on the floor after running 10 yards. Granddad do us a favour and retire!!!

krs-1 at 12:27:53 Monday April 30 2001
Exactly Chris. Some of the turds on here don't know how shite we were in the early-mid 90s (and the rest). I personally think this is the best squad we've had since I've been going.

Chris W at 12:22:53 Monday April 30 2001
I cannot believe some of the sh!te spouted out on here while I've been away in sunny(?) Bournemouth. John Frain was the only player who walked off that pitch with a dirty shirt and he was also the first player to sign a new contract with us. I've also heard that he is our only player who isn't represented by an agent, and that it took him a total of about 5 mins to read and sign his contract. He does not deserve the slating that he continually receives, even though he may not be our greatest player. He is more claret and white than any of our players (Ian Sampson apart), and could teach many others about loyalty. Also, can you really see a merger between us and them actually happening? I for one could never let this happen and the vast majority of Cobblers would feel the same - I mean can you ever see us merging with Boro for example? I hate RDFC almost as much as Sh!teboro and could NEVER tolerate a merger. Finally, how can people say that we, as fans, are told nothing? I thought Barry Stonhill is due to face a meeting of Cobblers fans soon to answer whatever questions we ask. How is this deemed as not communicating with the fans? Those supporters who are saying they are not renewing their season tickets next year can fekk off as far as I'm concerned. You support your club through thick and thin, and you are always claret and white. Cobblers till you die, as far as I'm concerned. Where were you lot in 1992?

krs-1 at 10:59:12 Monday April 30 2001
If that's true, friend, then there's not an earthly we'll keep said scruffy Irishman.

Giles Lawrence (Shiteboro' COBBLER) at 10:51:30 Monday April 30 2001
There were rumours that SAVAGE is off to either Barnsley or Sheffield Wednesday. This is what some of us heard from one of the players in a nightclub on Friday night.......

DavCobbler at 10:36:45 Monday April 30 2001
Plenty of relevant points coming through in the last few days, some much more relevant than others it has to be said. I agree with 9224 when he/she says that this is NOT the time to be making judgements, since when has a team with nothing whatsoever to play for played attractive flowing football? The answer would be rarely, if indeed ever! Lets just be thankful that we have survived in Div 2, that is after all what we were all saying was what we expected from the season eh? Anyway...............oh a brighter note, hows this for a fcuk up.......On Saturday we left at 7am, hoping to chuck our stuff in the B&B and get straight down the boozer for some pre-match beverages................at 8-30, within sight of Winchester, I suddenly realised that I had left my ferking ticket at home.......AAAAARGGGGGGGGGGHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!! I turned round, drove all the way back, taking muchoius pissious taking from the PattCobbs, collected said ticket and still got back to Bournemouth and was in the boozer by 12-30.......Good laugh now, not at all recommended at the time.

Mad at 9:49:20 Monday April 30 2001
If everyone is honest with themselves they know that Kevin Wilson just isn't good enough for the job. I'm not saying we should get rid of him completely but maybe we should get a more experienced man to work alongside him. That way Wilson could learn from them and take sole charge in the future.

KV at 9:14:35 Monday April 30 2001
Kingsthorpe Rec I will see what I can do.

krs-1 at 9:5:52 Monday April 30 2001
These people that say they're not buying a season ticket 'cause we're not playing very well - wouldn't fancy any of these chaps next to me in the trenches! I'd watch Cobbs if we were playing on Sunday mornings at Kingsthorpe Rec, but there you go. Also, I'd rather sit with 2000 old school diehards than with the extra 3000 moaners who only go because Saints are away or B&Q is closed or some shit like that.

at 9:4:16 Monday April 30 2001
Frain is pants

krs-1 at 8:56:43 Monday April 30 2001
Wilson out do me a favour. Just look at what happened to Swansea this year! Anyone heard this rumour that Savage has signed a pre-contract contract to play for Reading next season?

Anon at 1:30:43 Monday April 30 2001
You got a better team then fred?

fred at 1:28:13 Monday April 30 2001
who is the prick who just picked the team for next year? anon you live in a dream world and talk like a cunt....with a tea like that we'd hardly score and concede regular...face it we play long ball without a target man....nuff said

billy at 1:14:37 Monday April 30 2001
Grant - sorry for the americanism, my wifes from california and she talks like that all the time! it rubs off on me sometimes so apologies for that. - I'm not saying that the board should sell up to any tom dick or giovani who comes along but as well as the board have done (and they have done really well) I cant see us getting any higher with the way we are and its so frustrating when we have so much potential as a club. Second any talk of getting rid of Wilson now is just crap. and third 'insidersix' you obviously know everything there is to know about everything but try reading other peoples messages properly you @rse, we post on here because we support the club and care about whats going on, if you have another point of view then fine but cut out insulting everybody.

Ray at 0:55:14 Monday April 30 2001
Well at least we now appear to be getting some form of balance. I don't mind peopkle bitching but please make a logical argument rather than bitching for the sake of it.

9224 at 0:40:53 Monday April 30 2001
oooops, 9924 is me! :o)

9924 at 0:39:25 Monday April 30 2001
Funnily enough, I don't think we need too many new players. Our squad is more than capable of playing good football and getting results. The end of the season is not the time to judge the players!!!!!!!!!! Next year, with a full squad, we'll see the players on better form - although maybe we need a new forward if only to spark a reaction from Gabbiadini. Hodge, Forrester and Hunter should be key players next year, as well as Welch who should be offered a new contract NOW - for about twelve years!!!!!! (as should Sollitt)

Anon at 0:34:24 Monday April 30 2001
fucking bollocks!!!! - we've been in shit before and all this talk of gloom and doom is shit. we've got the best squad of players in years. the twat who said gabbers and hodge were old shit can fuck off - he probably wants to see a centre mid of peer and martin. we'll be ok next year - wilson knows what he's doing and there is enough quality in the squad to see us through. ok perhaps gabby could pull his finger out but if i was him i'd have written this season off anyway and be aiming for next year. next yrs team. Welch, Dempsey, Spedding, Sampson, Howey, HODGE!!!!!, Hargreaves, Hunt, Hunter, GABBY, Jamie subs: Sollitt, Hope, Frain, Savage, NEW STRIKER???

JJ at 23:42:56 Sunday April 29 2001
You lot are making me sick!! So it;s Kevin Wilson's turn to be under fire is it? When will you lot let up! Honest Ray this is a real bitching board! Speculating and moaning is not what this is about. I know a few of us have seen NTFC go up and down and up again! We've been here before! Have some faith wait and see what Kev does over the Summer. This is our first season in Div 2 and we wouldn't be here if Kev didn't bring in Jamie Forrester! Get a grip out there and start supporting the club!!!!

Ray at 23:8:40 Sunday April 29 2001
Their maths about as good as their spelling then huh?

TRB Mark at 23:3:42 Sunday April 29 2001
Lets be honest, we have got this season what most of us would have settled for at the start of the season and that is not to be relegated/mid table obscurity. After the excitement of the signings we made pre season, it's all gone a bit flat. It's a pity that the season wasnt in reverse because we would all be feeling great about staying up and Forrester would be on fire! Oh and according to the Sunday Mirror, we can still get relegated!

S.b.c. at 23:0:46 Sunday April 29 2001
The fans team lost 5,2? Lets shoot them too! whos the manager? Lets get him out now!! ( How does it feel to be on the other side of the line)..:-) better luck next time!!

TRB Mark at 22:58:7 Sunday April 29 2001
Actually, we do have one massive advantage over direones and thats location. I bet Griggs would give his eye teeth to have all his faclilities located at Sixfields, just off the M1, halfway between the two biggest cities in Britain. Nene park is off the beaten track.

at 22:50:38 Sunday April 29 2001
Ask Hull or Brighton? there doing alright, every club in the lower divs go through hard times!

Giles Lawrence (Shiteboro' COBBLER) at 22:49:8 Sunday April 29 2001
Bloody hell, I've just got home from the Bournemouth trip, the bloody Fans team only lost 5-2. WE SHOULD PLAY THE FANS TEAM instead of some of those nancy-boys who we've got on the pitch at the moment...... I should know, I'm the goalkeeper for the Fans Team. And the sodding club doesn't even recognise the Fans Teams existance either, we asked for a page to be put in the programme about us and the club didn't want to know.....

Cage rattler at 22:46:41 Sunday April 29 2001
Grant, what are you trying to say? has someone upset a member of your family? as for americanisms heres one for you! Think before you ink!!

Phil Baron at 22:40:53 Sunday April 29 2001
Most of the moaners should thank there stars they are not in Lutons shoes? At least the lads stayed up and slagging the players off does sweet FA.Hunt shows more commitment in his little toe then some forwards who remain nameless show!!

Grant at 22:36:29 Sunday April 29 2001
'Wake up and smell the coffee', don't you hate these smug Americanisms? So, we are to merge with Rushden and Diamonds and be managed by Ian Atkins and Kevan Broadhurst. The club is in a real state and is going nowhere and we should sell to the first person to bid. I know a chap called McRitchie who might be interested!!!! Some of you are only fourteen so you are excused, the remainder appear to be fu*kwits! The current board are tireless heroes and one day comments similar to those posted below will see them walk and only then will you understand/appreciate just how dedicated these guys are and just how fortunate that we have people who care at the helm. Ask Hull, Brighton, Barnet to name but a few. Wake up and smell the coffee, pah!

Anon at 22:31:10 Sunday April 29 2001
whinge whinge moan moan it's like listening to my mum reading this lot. just be thankful that we're not getting relegated

South Beds Cobbler at 22:7:36 Sunday April 29 2001
Talk of takeovers, mergers and feeder club is pointless ,how much of an investment would the cobblers be to any interested party?unless we got to the 1st div and started pulling 20,000 aweek at the gate there will never be any truly honest reson for any third party to invest heavily in the club. The only way forward would be for a consortium within the club something like the trust, to do a poll amongst all cobblers fans and sponsors to take part in a fund raising scheme with a difference, i.e for an initial outlay of between say 2,000 and 200, depending on level of investment you would be guarenteed frozen season ticket prices for 10 years, membership to new and old supporters bars, guarenteed two cup tickets/play offs, use of banquet/function facilities at least once a year, membership with discount on away travel, plus other incentitives, so much so the outlay will seem a very good investment bringing in say �3 million which could be used for ground expansion and team building to get into the 1st div. This is a simplified gist of how it would work but to me it seems better than selling out to the unknown. And how long before some anon tells me i havnt a clue how a professional football club is run?..Show me a better idea.

To chicken licken at 21:34:16 Sunday April 29 2001
Anon, you are an ignorant halfwit, nothing is wrong, the sky is in place

Anon at 21:9:27 Sunday April 29 2001
The board should cut there loses cos they aint goin to see any of the money they have invested in the club, unless we sell a player for X million, which aint goin to happen so 200k is a good return. And did anyone else see Football Focus about Bristol Rovers and there 5 Strikers thay have sold for 5.5m and scored 100 goals this season for there new clubs, could Chris Lee join this list and make us all eat are words about Atkins Comments

Anon at 21:7:57 Sunday April 29 2001
Insidersix I don't know who you are,but even us ignorant halfwit fans know there are things desperately wrong at the club.How else can you explain the total disinterest from most of the players,and the babbling rubbish that spouts from Wilsons mouth.

Steve at 20:55:39 Sunday April 29 2001
Manic depressive,I agree with your statement entirely.I like hundreds of others are waiting to renew our season tickets,but we need to know what is happening to our club.I love this club,but I'm fed up with the rumours.The players know something, the manager knows something and the board knows something,but us loyal fans who will still be here long after all those have departed are told nothing.It's a disgrace !

Insidersix at 20:49:12 Sunday April 29 2001
An, Mr. Manic Depressive, if you ever even took the effort to read the statements put out by the club they have made the position perfectly clear with regard to the now extinct Mafia takeover. You lot make me sick. Bleat, bleat, bleat. Why won't daddy tell me whats going on? Why are we offering contracts to X? Why are we offering contracts to Y? Its all Kevin Wilsons fault we managed to survive in the second division! We are definitely going to be relegated next season! Blah, blah, blah. You complete load of tossers. Stop bloody moaning and start supporting the club.

Insidersix at 20:43:16 Sunday April 29 2001
Yes I can smell the coffee thank you very much. And it ain't expresso! If someone came to you, offered you �200K for something in which you had invested more than 5 times as much, what would you say? Thanks very much? I think not! You will also see the statement that the Board have not heard from the Mafia since they refused their answer, Barry Stonhill has telephoned them since and apparently has not had his call returned, as you would have heard at the last AGM if you had been interested enough in this club to actually turn up! I also expect there to be a large space at the Trust open meeting next Thursday as I expect you won't be bothered to turn up for that either bleating some feeble excuse of why you can't make it.

Anon at 20:31:55 Sunday April 29 2001
rebuilding for next season,wilsons brought all these players in and give contracts to hasbeens like frain.he,s clueless.start of the season ,were good enough for promotion,now ,we would have settled for this at the start of the season,he,s full of bullshit.he,s the one who,s put us in tis mess playing the wages to old aged players like gabbers,hodge ect.and who let him do it,last season the squad was always good enough to bounce back after finding its feet this year has shown what kw is made of,basically a yes man for those above,the ego trippers.you will not get abet on us being relegated next season.

wellingborough claret at 20:21:45 Sunday April 29 2001
the thing is, if we do merge then we won't be northampton town nemore which is the club we have supported all our lives. I'd rather support northampton town fc neday given the chance between them and some merged thing with the direones, i want no affunity to do with the direones ever. i just hope griggsy sees sence and comes to ntfc. :-)

Anon at 20:13:6 Sunday April 29 2001
Spooner....also we don't want to have to trade our Div. 2 status to become the Conference runners-up.

Spooner at 20:10:54 Sunday April 29 2001
Hang on a minute......possible merger...hmmmm.....lets see what both teams contribute....Diamonds have fantastic ground which they own...just built �2m indoor centre....they have those lovely corporate facilities i.e the diamond centre...fantastic youth set up betther than most nationwide league teams...players actually worth something....a chairman with endless cash!!....what do the Cobblers bring...rm the Council own the ground...oops we train aon their ground too or sometimes we can hire Moulton sports centre if we have a whip round.....zero corporate facilities and a marketing team which makes everyone laugh.......Paul Curtis in charge of youth (a joke in itself) oh and a bunch of 30 somethings who seen their best 10 years ago if they ever had good days....suppose we could always give them Forreter and James "the crab" hunt. If they wanted our better players they would just buy them very easily...so I can't see a merger now...can you?

Manic depressive at 20:9:41 Sunday April 29 2001
I think that the club should now make a difinitive statement about the consortium takeover - ie that it is off. Becoming a feeder club for a load of Italians is not in the best interest of the club and a statement that the club is back on the market may bring forth another bidder (unlikely I know...but a possibility). Unfortunately, Northants people have been the footballing bridesmaids for so long that any possible takeover seems like a change for the better. I think that we may rue the day we become a feeder club with the over 30 club being the backbone of the side. We still need some positive statements from Barry Stonhill, and widely published, at the 10/5/01 meeting to encourage the army of the disillusioned to renew their season tickets. I personally want to renew, but I refuse to be led blindly to the ticket office with only the implication of disloyalty as the carrot.

billy at 19:53:13 Sunday April 29 2001
Wake up and smell the coffee insidersix we are going nowhere with the current set up. Just how much do you think the club is worth? - no ground, no training ground, losses of a million squid last year and no real value in the players (especially with the changes in the transfer system)- I say the board should at least keep talking to the italians and IF they are genuine, bring them in. I'd rather watch a team of quality young players with a few experienced players (who we could buy in if we had the resources)rather than a shoestring squad of free transfers and young lads who have been rejected by other clubs. Lets face it we are four or five players short of being able to even compete in division two next season and have no money to spend, if the chance is there for the board to move the club onwards then I think they should take it for all our sakes. Rest assured whatever happens I shall renew my season ticket and keep supporting whoever is wearing the claret and white despite my frustrations and I would urge everyone else on here to do the same.

Neil at 19:51:10 Sunday April 29 2001
Mark - John Ward becoming our new manager is an interesting suggestion - I think we definitely need a change. As far as I'm concerned, Wilson has done a fairly good job and is trying his best but has taken us as far as he can. If he continues, I fear the worst.

Insidersix at 19:46:41 Sunday April 29 2001
Are you lot fukcing blind or daft. Why do you think the Mafia is interestered in us? I can tell you. The only reason is that they will not have to fork out millions on top of the cost because they won't have to buy the ground! If you think they intend then negotiating to spend millions on buying the ground from the council and then spending even more millions paying back the grants (as they will have to) and then spend even more millions developing the ground, then saying you are as thick as two short planks is an insult to wood.

Anon at 19:42:14 Sunday April 29 2001
Steve that is really well said!!

clarence_the_dragons_pr at 19:36:39 Sunday April 29 2001
I wouldn't be able to get to irthlingborough to get to the ground if the clubs merged. As for not buying a season ticket for next season. I will be buying mine as I feel the club needs my support and everyone else should feel the same......COME ON COBBLERS

Steve at 19:11:41 Sunday April 29 2001
It appears alot is going on behind the scenes at the club,I just wish that we could have some real truths for a change.We supporters are the greatest asset that this club has, but we are treated like fodder.

Podge at 19:6:38 Sunday April 29 2001
hey hey poor result at bournemouth but good news go to www.purebloodedcobbler.freeservers.com and you can acess my new online fast java chat service only for cobblers fans

Best part of wekend at 19:5:19 Sunday April 29 2001
The sing song in the pub before the game, near the ground, it was all good natured together with the Cheeries fans!

Kevin Simons at 19:1:11 Sunday April 29 2001
I've just left Naperville, Il., where the local baseball team became a feeder side for the Florida Marlins a few years ago. Young players come in for sure, but the ones that don't succeed are chopped after six months and the good ones move on after 6 months to Florida. So the team changes at least every season. As a result the team just stagnate, no ambition, no incentive but around 5000 people a week willing to pay to watch stars of the future. If it were put to a vote, I'd be against an Italian consortium on a feeder basis. But then its not my money....

TRB Mark at 18:54:49 Sunday April 29 2001
Re Merger. I personally don't think it would happen, not for a while anyway, if ever. For instance, how many Cobblers fans would travel to I'boro to watch "Northants County"? The extra fans would be the only tangible benefit for Direones and they may or may not get them anyway. From a purely selfish pov, I would only have a 4 minute walk to the ground instead of a 40 mile round trip!

Darth at 18:53:23 Sunday April 29 2001
insidersix ,prick the first and foremost would be if the consortium bought the ground then NTFC would actually have a ground of its own for the first time in its history and not become tenants of a landlord and no matter what happens after that at least NTFC would have its own home and the lettering outside would read NORTHAMPTON TOWN FC sponsored by nationwide and not nothampton borough council community stadium sponsored by nationwide OH and all of the spin offs that come with it as well

TRB Mark at 18:48:36 Sunday April 29 2001
The less said about the B'muff game the better. What got me tho' was the amount of police and stewards in attendance, there were 1,000's of them, spotters with cameras filming any Cobblers fan that twitched and to top it all, at the end of the game, a police helicoptor hovering over the ground. What were they expecting??? A Cherries fan told us it cost �75,000 to police that game and they wern't very happy about it. I'm not surprised. Anyway, it was a good weekend spoilt by having to watch the Cobblers.

Darth at 18:45:30 Sunday April 29 2001
its obvious at what has to happen , the board have to sell in order for the new owners to buy the club lock stock and barrell . the board are bleating on as if they own the ground as well, which is the biggest asset to any club , the new owners after buying the club and ground then would realise healthy profits after not having to pay the bloody council such high rates of rent, of which as a tax payer like yourselves actually own the club and not some jumped up oik, with a free ticket to every match plus his mates, al a tcmp how many tickets did you not have to queue for this year. SELL and stop picking pockets of the innocent.

Wandering Cobbler at 18:44:57 Sunday April 29 2001
I'm slowly coming to the conclusion that merging with R&D, unpalatable as it may be, is perhaps our only option: own ground, excellent youth and training facilities, financial security, independence which would all but disappear if we became feeder side. We lose our identity, it's bloody painful but what happens if we have to call in the administrators again? I'd be interested to hear others views as we look like a div3 side in twelve months anyway.

g at 18:43:37 Sunday April 29 2001
Load of rubbish from Relegation - if Kevan Broadhurst had still been with us we might well have been relegated like Luton. What did he do for them? Oh yes re: annoyed fan and bring back Atkins - absolute balls - Carlisle are bottom of division three and struggling for survival - can't believe the stupidity of some people. Alright we're struggling but at least we're still in Division Two! Up the Cobblers - show us what you really can do on Saturday v Walsall.

Insidersix at 18:35:57 Sunday April 29 2001
Quite frankly, I can't believe what I'm reading here. Kevin Wilson out? Sell the Club for four pence? You lot are fukcing lunatics. The mafia haven't said a word publically on any subject including about developing the ground and the offer made was well less than the 1/2 million being touted about on here. Pah! You make me sick.

fed up at 18:11:35 Sunday April 29 2001
spud what is the site address for div 2 that you talk about

fed up at 18:8:5 Sunday April 29 2001
Bravo billy, anyway surely there has been at least one million knocked off the price, and when you add up the clubs assets,the players only which I can see four of any notable value with respect to the other players then the �500,000.00 offered ( pure conjecture of course )would mean that if the board were offered a token amount then they should take it, because next season if or when things start to realy go wrong then the rats will jump ship to save themselves from ruin.

Spud at 18:1:39 Sunday April 29 2001
Just read on the div 2 site that you lot are merging with Rushden. Is this true ?

billy at 17:50:22 Sunday April 29 2001
I agree that if the board has a chance to sell up then they should grab it 'for the good of the club'. Admittedly I don't know the full facts surrounding the takeover, but taking everything at face value, the things the consortium apparently said about bringing in italian players and developing the ground has got to give us more hope than we currently have for next season. I'd also say that about 2000 season tickets for next season will be about right - but it wouldn't suprise me if it were less than that. It will very interesting to hear what Stonhill has to say on thursday week at the trust meeting, I may even offer him a lift if he's stuck after losing his licence.

fed up after fifteen years at 17:33:2 Sunday April 29 2001
What a big loss Steeeeeeevie Howard has been to us, Gabbo's one and only league goal at home speaks volumes ,strange it was against Millwall, OH YEAH and the other goal he scored at home against Fulham in the cup even stranger (on telly), if he had half of what Jamie has got he should have scored 15 goals this season this has got to be Gabbo's worst performance in football,three years contract he got and whilst Mr Atkins had to win at wembeley and ultimately promotion, got an extra year on his contract bringing him up to two. If Gabbo got what was expected of him this season then we would surely be charging at second or third spot. I for one am not renewing my season ticket or attending sixfields in any way until positive moves are made by the board. I.E cut your loses and sell for "THE BEST INTEREST OF NORTHAMPTON TOWN FOOTBALL CLUB" unless that chance has passed us by already. less than two thousand season tickets this year is going to be my bet, after all why did they need the money in so early with about eight games left to play?????????????????????????.

Rodney Marshall(MoaningCobbler) at 17:32:47 Sunday April 29 2001
Everyone has been kept in the dark about our terrible financial situation. Only a few months ago, Ray, you told us that YOU thought it was not as bad as some were suggesting: maybe a 400,000 loss. Now we know that it was over 1million, what is the board planning on doing? It has to 'sell out' surely?

Rodney at 17:29:5 Sunday April 29 2001
I have heard some rubbish this season, but Smith as manager? When he left Wycombe the players had an official party in the dressing room. He has spent millions this season at Palace and they now face relegation. He has fallen out with most of his players. He is clueless. Either make sensible suggestions or....

Mark at 15:47:40 Sunday April 29 2001
Why not try to get John Ward. I know he is currently Assisstant at wolves, But he did a fantastic job at Bristol City. I just think it is time that we showed a little ambition rather than trying to get "up and coming" young Managers.

KC at 15:36:10 Sunday April 29 2001
Who do u think could do a good job? Admittedly i cant see Wilson staying long if we keep up this form nxt season! Who would u rather manage us?

Mark at 15:33:59 Sunday April 29 2001
Well he seems to know what a football is for a start! He has done a good job at Palace under the circumstances. Anyway, it needn't be Smith. Anyone with even just a hint of football knowledge would be good.

KC at 15:25:30 Sunday April 29 2001
On what basis would u say that Smith could do a better job than Wilson?

Mark at 15:18:27 Sunday April 29 2001
I have just heard that Crystal Palace have sacked their manager, Alan Smith. Isn't it about time that we got rid of KW, and got a Proper Manager, such as the aforementioned Smith?

Tomas at 15:12:56 Sunday April 29 2001
My team for next Saturday : Janet (from the shop) in goal, LB - Pete Smith, Centres - the two guys on Cobblers Radio, RB - a bucket, midfield - the girls from the ticket office, forwards - Blob the groundsman and Clarence. Bench - Morrow, Thompson, Gould, Hughes and Hodge in an effort to maintain the demoralisation they must have felt all season. I reckon we might stand a chance.

KC at 14:54:55 Sunday April 29 2001
Anytime annoyed fan! i have not heard anything about the merger apart from on here! Is there anymore news on the consortium!

Annoyed Fan at 14:47:53 Sunday April 29 2001
Thank you KC. I appreciate the apology. By the way what is the news on the merger? ANYONE?

KC at 14:46:11 Sunday April 29 2001
Annoyed Fan - I actually am gonna apologise! U seem to realise what Atkins did for this club, but still have a little faith in Wilson!

Annoyed fan at 14:33:51 Sunday April 29 2001
Shut yourself up, merging? Pleeeeeease

KC at 14:30:53 Sunday April 29 2001
Annoyed fan - shut up

KC at 14:30:7 Sunday April 29 2001
Is there any truth in the possible merger of Cobblers and Direones?

Annoyed fan at 14:25:30 Sunday April 29 2001
What the hell happened this season. Bring back the decent manager, ATKINS, Wilson you are shit. And if Stoke get through on playoffs i will be extremely pissed off. by the way, i agree with "Relegation?" Cobblers have been shit. What happend boys, you're like a yo-yo, up, down, up, down, cant keep up anymore.

Anon at 13:10:44 Sunday April 29 2001
RAY< YOU make it sound like it is very important what the shareholders get out of the deal, well what is more important the Shareholders, the club (NTFC) or the fans, I personally dont give a damn what the shareholders get out of it ,the fans have contributed just as much with their hearts and souls,NTFC and the fans are the most important aspects here they give all and ask nothing back in return,unless you want give me back the thousands of pounds I have put into the club over the years and I'M only speaking for one here what about the thousands of others. If or when the board eventually sell this club where does the money go to ,NTFC I dont think so ,if we dont sell then dig deep boys , because the fans only have so much patience.

AP at 12:47:20 Sunday April 29 2001
Ray, the club has more leaks than Anglian water, Stonhil" said he /they did not accept the first offer (turned down that means ray) and ,you only have to fart at sixfields and by the end of the day the whole town knows about it. please be sensible and not so neive ray. could you imagine trying to bail out and the captain has got the only bucket on BOARD

Eastander at 12:35:54 Sunday April 29 2001
Didn't go yesterday couldn't get a ticket but listening to the radio it seems the same old story crap defence , toothless attack, non existent midfield. OK we're all glad to have another season in Div2 but the lack of goals has got to be addressed. In only one league game this season have we scored more than 2 goals that was against Millwall 2 of those were penalty's. I was also unable to see the Colchester game and find it dificult to remember the last cobblers goal I saw. When did anyone see the Cobblers breaking from defence as Port Vale did on thursday. Just a few points but all cause for concern

Ray at 12:35:42 Sunday April 29 2001
Without knowing details of the deal - any comments regarding turning it down are pure conjecture. For example if the offer was "sell us all your shares for �100 and walk away"", what does that tell you about the offer being made? If you must comment, please say something sensible.

ARTHUR PIZZA at 12:31:19 Sunday April 29 2001
Told you so ! the board wants a bigger chunk of the pie, Well perhaps not all of them but some ,or one !Quote "anybody in their right mind would have turned down such an offer " well what is good for the club or other peoples bank balance is two different things MR Stonhill , if this deal colapses and we face relgation again , I would not like to be in your boots . get yourself a new pair ,because your too big for the ones you have on at the moment,If I was in your position next season I wouldnt want to put up with the abuse that you will surely get. "WE WOULD ONLY WORK IN THE BEST INTEREST OF NTFC" . SELL NOW OR BE DAMNED.

geezer at 11:48:22 Sunday April 29 2001
there was a game on yesterday as well do you think ntfc are subletting?

Anon at 10:57:55 Sunday April 29 2001
Game on at sixfields at the mo, perhaps they have been called in for extra training (or perhaps not)

Anon at 10:54:25 Sunday April 29 2001
Graham Carrs claret and white army sounds gooooooooooooood bring him back

From Teamtalk Bournemouth report at 9:52:57 Sunday April 29 2001
"Northampton arrived on the back of a ten-game unbeaten away record" ?!?! Shouldn't that be ten-game winless away record?

Relegation? at 9:47:2 Sunday April 29 2001
Cobblers form before Broadhurst left W 6, D 3, L 3. Form since? W 9, D 9, L 15. Some kind of pattern developing? If we had displayed the same form all season as we have since Broadhursts departure, we would have completed this season on 50 points - and probable relegation.

Rodney at 2:33:31 Sunday April 29 2001
Relegation places etc. would be decided on goal difference the goals scored not the results between the two sides.

Ray at 0:25:8 Sunday April 29 2001
In the EXTREMELY unlikely event of R&D and Cobblers merging during the summer, the combined team will be in Division 3.

Anon at 0:21:40 Sunday April 29 2001
Why the shit would Griggs want to get involved with you lot again by bringing you into RDFC by amalgamation

ENVB at 0:14:39 Sunday April 29 2001
Blackmore mentions Diamonds and Poppies because people are interested in their progress or demise from the conference Currently better than the continual boring excuses from sickfields

KC at 23:55:41 Saturday April 28 2001
What a dreadfull diaply! still i love the cobbs and always will! up the town! mmm beer is good! Roll on nxt season! say we r goin up say we r goin up! I cannot believe Rotherham ave been promoted! wot a joke!

How about this at 22:36:27 Saturday April 28 2001
Having a play-off between 23rd in Nationwide Division 3 and "nd place in the Conference-then at least more than one team has a chance of getting in the league

Phil at 22:34:33 Saturday April 28 2001
Martin. The answer to your question is the team with the better goal difference stays up. If this is the same then it is the result of the matches on aggregate between the two teams and if this is a draw then they toss a coin. I know not very fair is it I think they should have play offs for relegation if this occurs

Blowers at 22:23:57 Saturday April 28 2001
Thank goodness the cricket season is upon us, Pakistan followed by Australia, bliss!

Anon at 22:22:15 Saturday April 28 2001
Rushden and Diamond Cobblers!

Rodney Marshall(Moaning Cobbler) at 21:58:34 Saturday April 28 2001
Why would a merger cause uproar at Diamonds? They already are a 'merged' club. If the club was called Northamptonshire FC it might even work but where would they play home games? Alternate venues, a bit like cricket? And it would mean definite relegation for the Cobblers as two merging clubs have to play in the lower division, if you see what I mean.

Rodney at 21:54:42 Saturday April 28 2001
Looks like Barnet are going out the league back to where they belong with their tiny support and terrible ground. They may well disappear entirely. As for us, virtually everyone agrees that next year will be relegation unless something drastic happens. That something drastic is a financial injection. However, hearty congratulations to Rotherham: little money but what an excellent achievement in their first year up. Just shows what can be achieved with vocal support and an astute manager.

geezer at 21:49:12 Saturday April 28 2001
i would have forrester was the most likely to want to leave

Sparky at 21:34:50 Saturday April 28 2001
OK moaning aside, lets talk about the problems facing us next season. Does any agree that perhaps we should let Gabby go next season as his wage bill is clearly cripling us, and let's face it he's a good player but he hasn't actually been banging them in !! Who saw the Prot Vale game on Thursday ? I though John Frain looked rusty, he clearly couldn't compete with the clean passing football that was required against a tidy passing side such as Vale on Thursday. What worries me slightly is that we've given him another three year contract !! Don't get me wrong I have been a fan of Frainy over the years but I'm not sure he can make the grade required for survival in the second ??

Food for thought at 21:25:42 Saturday April 28 2001
If Rushden & Diamonds become a League club,a bid will be submitted in the summer to purchase Northampton Town FC, and amalgamate the two clubs.Although this will undoubtedly cause uproar in both sets of fans,in todays football economic climate it is a move which could benefit both clubs,and inparticular Northants football.Watch this space !

Spooner at 21:17:22 Saturday April 28 2001
a stylish win v Walsall? Theres as much chance of that as hearing a decent song in the North Stand instead of the boring old Posh shite.

BARTON BOY at 21:13:7 Saturday April 28 2001
Wilson you lost AGAIN!!!! Why is it that you just do not care any more.?? What is puzzling to the fans is what do you do with the players during the week- as on match days the players play as if they have never met each other before. You state that you are going away on holiday before loking for any new players. May I suggest that it would be of benifit to the Club, players and yourself if you went on a FA coaching course.Your performance since Xmas has not been acceptable to the paying Fans who pay your fat salary. Your fans deserve better, even you must admit!!!

Anon at 20:50:32 Saturday April 28 2001
Either way nobody seems too concerned.

Anon at 20:49:44 Saturday April 28 2001
Do you mean that is the last posting by sbc or the anon posting was by sbc?

SOUTH BEDS COBBLER at 20:17:53 Saturday April 28 2001
Last posting by s.b.c.

South.beds cobbler at 20:16:25 Saturday April 28 2001
LAST POSTING BY S.B.C.

Anon at 20:14:39 Saturday April 28 2001
Last game of the season is apon us, and the early/midseason opptomisim (?) is well and truly gone, and with it the players professonal pride, do the senior players take it personal when the manager bravly bloods the youngsters? Regarding season ticket renewals, a lot of things from now untill the start of the new season can rekindle the passion, but a stylish win against Walsall would go a long way, Lets get behind them one more time, Up the cobblers!

Manic depressive at 19:48:47 Saturday April 28 2001
Wilson said that he is going to have to have a long hard think during the summer and see who he needs to bring in. I would personally suggest that he starts to do this now as the writing is on the wall. In fact, that is the only good thing about the last 10 games....it is plain as the nose on your face that we will be relegated next season unless something drastic is done. From somewhere we need to find some cash to bring in 4 or 5 quality players.....but listening to Wilson and Stonhill it looks like we don't have that. And it ain't going to be any good counting the season ticket money as I believe we will lose over 1000 season tickets next season....you can heard it loud and clear in all the aisleway conversations at Sixfields at the last few home games. We are in deep shit...............

9224 at 17:51:5 Saturday April 28 2001
we are bloody awful though

richie fan from newzealand at 17:50:36 Saturday April 28 2001
you can have a point of view paul but its not the end of the world and there is allways next season.this is the most competive football in the world.the new zealand national team would have trouble holding there own in the first div.

The Ashford Cobbler at 17:48:9 Saturday April 28 2001
Prophet of doom or been supporting the Cobblers too long? My prediction from 5 February. Other than Luton (H) and Notts C (A) I was right about February where we drew with Millwall and narrowly beat Wigan. Writing was probably on the wall vs Swansea (H) though. Unfortunately we won't finish 11th. The Ashford Cobbler at 23:24:25 Monday February 5 2001 Just looking at the fixtures to the end of the season February will be the defining month. If we can pick up results Notts County, Millwall and Wigan (assuming dispatch of Swansea and Luton) then the run in, with the exception of Rotherham (A) and Walsall (H), looks tasty - Wrexham, Bristol Rovers, Swansea, Port Vale, Oldham, Oxford, Swindon, Cambridge, Colchester, Bournemouth. All teams below us and most struggling. My prediction though, given this is the Cobblers, we will remain unbeaten through Feb and be hangigng on the coat tails of the play offs. We will then capitulate to "lesser" teams scrapping for survival and finish 11th. We have seen it too many times before. Watch this space.

Allan at 17:42:44 Saturday April 28 2001
end of season complacency? One win in nine games!! This is relegation form and if you look at the table we have plummetted to 15th and with games being played in the week we can go further down the table. Where you get the idea we ever had a steely defence this season is beyond me, time and again our defences were breached only for the brilliance of Welch to keep us in the game. Wilson has to earn his corn during the close season and bring in the players that can keep us in this division. I'll take mid-table obscurity again, right now! Watch out The Diamonds are coming!

The Ashford Cobbler at 17:33:59 Saturday April 28 2001
I care. Hope this is nothing more than end of season complacency. What happened to our steel defense of early season? Not sure with a good right back we are good enough with a back 4 at this level. Hopefully some passion shown at Bournemouth today although based on 1st half stats of 2 shots with 0 on target doesn't look like it. I'll be there next week. COME ON YOU COBBLERS!!!!!!!!!

Anon at 17:20:3 Saturday April 28 2001
oh by the way, as if anyone cares, we lost 2-0.

geezer at 16:47:48 Saturday April 28 2001
whose playing at sixfields then?

Paul at 16:47:42 Saturday April 28 2001
Such abuse richie.. so you don't believe people should be able to share their own opinions on here??

Ralph at 16:44:3 Saturday April 28 2001
It is bad enough having to put up with the rugby commentary and the occasional updates on Diamonds and Kettering on radio Northampton, but why is it when they go over to Dean Court bloody Adam Blackmore then talks about the rugby, has his say on how Kettering and Diamonds are doing then embarks on a national round-up! Bloody commentate FOOL!

Martin at 16:41:45 Saturday April 28 2001
If two teams have the same points what determines which team goes down?

cobblers_girly at 16:28:36 Saturday April 28 2001
god rugby is ssssssssoooooooo boring

Anon at 16:25:42 Saturday April 28 2001
why can't they fucking well play to their abilities - and don't tell me they are!

richie fan from newzealand at 16:23:6 Saturday April 28 2001
why dont you jump out of a high rise paul or piss of to the direones.COME ON THE COBBLERS<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<

C'mon at 16:12:52 Saturday April 28 2001
Direones miss penalty! Yeovil score!

Mark at 16:11:57 Saturday April 28 2001
2-0. Why do they bother?

Paul at 15:50:40 Saturday April 28 2001
Right, thats it.. I give up caring about anything anymore... what a miserable situation.. Were losing to a team who 2 years ago had less chance of surviving than we ever did. Their now gonna make the playoffs. We are playing like SHAT... absolute CRAP... and are gonna ger relegated next season. No chance of anyone putting serious money into our claub either... Italian consortium... what a joke!! To top things off, the bloody Diamonds are gonna get into the league this year, and will pass us at the end of next season. Fine... if thats the deal I get out of life, I guess someone must have got my happiness instead.. most likely a bloody diamonds fan!

richie fan from newzealand at 15:47:32 Saturday April 28 2001
anybody know the team for today.??????????

richie fan from newzealand at 15:43:41 Saturday April 28 2001
dont panic we going to win

Bugger at 15:43:34 Saturday April 28 2001
Yeovil 1 all

Mark at 15:41:10 Saturday April 28 2001
I mean 2-1

Direones.... at 15:41:6 Saturday April 28 2001
Score... BOO HISS BOO... lose you... err... losers!

Mark at 15:40:43 Saturday April 28 2001
Spoke too soon! Direones 1 all

Mark at 15:39:47 Saturday April 28 2001
The Direones are going to throw it away again!! Oh the beautiful game.

Yeovil at 15:38:36 Saturday April 28 2001
SCORE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Paul at 15:37:0 Saturday April 28 2001
Bornemouth score... YAY... oh wait... thats bad news right? who cares... I knew we would lose anyway!

Paul at 15:35:16 Saturday April 28 2001
Dover draw level... keep it up guys!!! And Yeovil... COME ON, score you fools!!!!!!

Mark at 15:34:38 Saturday April 28 2001
Come on Dover!!!

Anon at 15:24:8 Saturday April 28 2001
bastard diamonds have sodding well scored

Cymru Cobbler at 15:13:46 Saturday April 28 2001
You should try living in Wales, Rugby is always on the TV.

cobblers_girly at 15:9:1 Saturday April 28 2001
i bloody hope so cuz rugby is crap

Cymru Cobbler at 15:7:35 Saturday April 28 2001
More egg chasing!!! Is it just the first half and then the Cobbs second half on Radio Northampton?

cobblers_girly at 15:5:53 Saturday April 28 2001
donkey

cobblers_girly at 15:5:29 Saturday April 28 2001
howard werent a dockey really

cobblers_girly at 15:4:41 Saturday April 28 2001
how boring is rugby?

lee at 15:4:8 Saturday April 28 2001
I must of missed the announcement of broadhurst being first team manager.I think any luton fans will agree lawrence took them down with the assistance of stein,fucille,kinnear and not forgeting donkey howard and the rest of the crap squad

cobblers_girly at 15:1:31 Saturday April 28 2001
cant believe we have to listen to the saints in their first half

Club in cider at 14:44:4 Saturday April 28 2001
Let me tell you that is wasn't the club who paid the 150k for Forrester, nor are they paying Gabbs his wages...an outsider is.

9224 at 14:40:36 Saturday April 28 2001
Any team news yet?

Anon at 14:34:55 Saturday April 28 2001
Broadhurst moved to Luton and look what happend to them !!!

lee at 14:33:40 Saturday April 28 2001
spooner dont forget that there broadhurst was manager aswell on that super run and that the run stopped when they fell out over tatics and broadhurst left.That might be a coincidence but i think not.

9224 at 14:30:36 Saturday April 28 2001
Is the TCMP Q&A an ongoing thing? when's the next one?

Spooner at 13:21:47 Saturday April 28 2001
Why are ppl still getting on Wilsons back? FFS we are in the midtable of the second division. Last season we were in the third and he galvanised the team to a super run that got us promoted. He signed Forrester and Gabbs! What more do you people want? Tell you want, ask KW to ask that nice man Stonhill to get the �50 million he has stashed away and we'll buy a few prem all stars...no problem. its that easy you know.

Ben Dover at 13:17:0 Saturday April 28 2001
Mcmanaman looks like a woman with that new haircut.

Gaz at 12:41:43 Saturday April 28 2001
So, it seems everyone has gone to Bournmouth, let's hope that the team gives them a performance to be proud of after queuing in the rain to get tickets.

Ex-Vegas Cobbler at 12:23:45 Saturday April 28 2001
Went to the PV game and we were out classed on the night. I tend to use www.sports.com/football as the best site to compare =Cobblers' performances. Players grades on that are 5 for poor and 4 is the lowest I'd previously seen on any report. However, look at the grades for Thursday. Speaks for itself, although I think that several are particularly harsh (Dempsey played OK and I believe he has been an excellent find. Shame we didn't keep Nicholson for the left back position.) Anyone know if the game today will be on the internet radio? Request details... See you for the last game of the season vs Walsall. G 15. Sollitt - 7 D 4. Sampson - 4 D 5. Howey - 5 D 17. Hope - 4 D 27. Dempsey - 3 M 7. Savage - 5 M 2. Whitley, Jim - 3 M 3. Frain - 4 M 28. Lopes - 3 F 10. Gabbiadini - 6 F 18. Forrester - 6

Hampshire Trevor at 10:18:30 Saturday April 28 2001
Dear Drilling Cobbler there are several friendly pubs near Dean Court, try the Bat and Wickets in Dumple Street good ale and food. The Game Keepers Arms in Tryton Road caters in particular for away fans has a sporty theme to it, after the game you can always get results. The Ten O'Clock in Cavendish Square or finally Bartram's Rest in Christchurch Road, that is where I'll be supping come in and ask for Trev (Mine's a light and bitter if you do, cheers!)

Greg at 9:46:38 Saturday April 28 2001
see 9.37

Anon at 9:37:14 Saturday April 28 2001
some body has dropped out and we are taking a spare ticket with us 07796548282

The Drilling Cobbler at 8:38:5 Saturday April 28 2001
Re Bournemouth. Does anyone know any decent pubs near the ground? Should be there 12:30ish. And what about clubs for tonight?

richie fan from newzealand at 7:44:55 Saturday April 28 2001
to all you moaning buggas.hey we still got second div football next season,so cheer up or go back to bed.lets hear it for the town UP THE COBBLERSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSS.,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,

richie fan from newzealand at 7:40:37 Saturday April 28 2001
n z good dave thanks,hope u have something to cheer about today so have a great day C mon town. we going to win today.

DavCobbler at 6:37:10 Saturday April 28 2001
Yawwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwn, strettttttttttch............ooooooeeeerrrrrrrrrrrrrrr, is everyone in Bournemouth already? Bugger, I`m late!!!! see ya`s......C`mon Town !!!!

Paul at 22:35:38 Friday April 27 2001
Hello to Andy Roberts and all his fellow cobblers from a very happy Celtic fan. Look out for your result every week. You said you'd settle for mid-table at the start of the season so don't get too down. Look on the bright side Swansea no more!!! Good luck for next season and I think Rangers might be flogging off some dodgy Dutch gear if you're interested in that sort of thing. Henrik is God!

keep it fair at 20:46:18 Friday April 27 2001
who gives a stuff?

To put the record straight at 18:23:20 Friday April 27 2001
For thoese who for some reason are curious: I could tell you everything you need to know about KW : he has wife, kids and girlfriends! right now he has a wife (separated), 3 kids with her, a VERY posessive 20 yr old girlfriend, nope its not the babysitter unless she's living in! although young enough, no kids with her as yet but she's probably working on it! what else do you want to know?????

DavCobbler at 18:4:24 Friday April 27 2001
Cheers Richie......how is NZ?

richie fan from newzealand at 17:52:38 Friday April 27 2001
WELL SAID DAV COBBLER,WAY TO GO. stick it up those moaning sods.

Roger Andrews at 17:48:32 Friday April 27 2001
As todays message on your web site says tomorrows match with Bournemouth is one of pride. Northampton has always in my eyes been a team with "PRIDE". We look forward to seeing you at Dean Court tomorrow and hope,whatever,the result that it is a match befitting our last game on the D.C. pitch. May the best team win. Cheers.

DavCobbler at 17:45:49 Friday April 27 2001
Ok, so not a good performance last night but why oh why do some folks get onto the backs of the players, even those that were trying their best and performing well? The guy that hurled abuse at Sollit not long after we went 2 down being a prime example......what a tw@t !!!! For fcuk`s sake folks lets get BEHIND the team for a change eh.........you never know......it could just help eh? See ya`s in Bournemouth.........UTC.........FTD.......F F FTP!!!

Harvey Jones at 17:44:59 Friday April 27 2001
The board say we either increase the income revenue or reduce the outgoings Sadly the later it would seem is the only way forward

richie fan from newzealand at 17:39:45 Friday April 27 2001
Will someone tell richard how many tickets have bin sold before he has a hernia

richie fan from newzealand at 17:37:40 Friday April 27 2001
Why are you people so shit hot on putting the cobblers down.some of us have seen the cobblers go from the fourth to first div and back down again and bin with them in there ups and downs there after but we still here,cobblers suporters till the day we die.so you bunch off moaners get a life and suport them through thick and thin cause we going up to the first div next season.so if the boo boys and the moaners are not happy with the cobblers why dont you piss of and follow pish there only down the road.SO COME ON YOU COBBLERSSSSSSS

Richard at 17:7:10 Friday April 27 2001
What was said to Wilson then, i saw him shouting back at someone in the crowd, also HOW MANY SEASON TICKETS HAVE BEEN SOLD FOR THE 20TH TIME!!!!!

Correct!! at 16:37:1 Friday April 27 2001
In reply to You thought I'd forgotten. You are spot on. The chap shouldn't get just a 'letter' he should get a Medal. Most of us have been dying to say something to Wilson, he did and good on him.

bigstirryspoon at 16:36:11 Friday April 27 2001
Maybe it was just some additional 1-2-1 marathon training for our loose 'cannons' of a manager!

Wind of Change at 15:55:29 Friday April 27 2001
Phhhhhhhhhhhhhrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrtttttttttttttttttttttttttt! Pooh!

Neil at 15:50:38 Friday April 27 2001
Richard - you mentioned in your lengthy report that the double took a long time in coming. Had you forgotten the double over Bristol Rovers, or doesn't that count?

You thought I'd forgotten... at 15:43:6 Friday April 27 2001
Anyone know what happened to that 'gentleman' who had a go at Wilson near the end of the Cambridge game? I understand it was reported that the club were going to write to the person and they probably they did, but that's not good enough. If it had been a youngster there would have been calls for a ban for a while if not life. Why just because it is an 'older' person should it be any different? We are all frustrated by recent performances, especially last nights pathetic display, but those sort of actions should not be allowed to go with just a 'letter'. Any chance of a response from the club on this matter?

You thought I'd forgotten... at 15:41:27 Friday April 27 2001
Anyone know what happened to that 'gentleman' who had a go at Wilson near the end of the Cambridge game? I understand it was reported that the club were going to write to the person and they probably they did, but that's not good enough. If it had been a youngster there would have been calls for a ban for a while if not life. Why just because it is an 'older' person should it be any different? We are all frustrated by recent performances, especially last nights pathetic display, but those sort of actions should not be allowed to go with just a 'letter'. Any chance of a response from the club on this matter?

PATTCOBB at 15:21:4 Friday April 27 2001
Just a couple of points.Last night wasn't our worst of the season,Gabbiadini wasn't the worst player on the pitch ( i honestly believe Forrester was ),Port Vale are a good side with a decent manager,bad news from Stonhill about the consortium. Having two "fairweather" supporters attend the game with the Pattcobbs and Davcobbler with the young Davcobblers (kid a quid) a defeat was always on the cards.Always remember back in the record breaking 86-87 season trying to persuade my grandad (a long time sufferer-his words!) that this team was the best since the 60's and that they would go through the season unbeaten at home rolling opposition defences over in a glorious goalfest.Finally persuaded Grandad to go to a game in the new year of 1987. Which game?Yes you've guessed it the only home defeat of the season against Swansea.The moral of this story?Whatever Cobblers team good bad or ugly never bring a casual supporting friend recommending superb action fine football and loads of goals,because what you end up with is "Seen better on Northampton racecourse". "Theres more atmosphere on Mars" and "You pay twelve pounds fifty every week to watch this cr*p?" and other similar remarks.....Pattcobb only at Bournemouth for the day due to Sunday football requirements all you weekenders enjoy it lets spoil their party with a win.......

richie fan from newzealand at 14:55:34 Friday April 27 2001
www.pandasport.co.nz is good value

richie fan from newzealand at 14:51:43 Friday April 27 2001
i think wind of change needs to sing on the carzzie too or he will be be wiping the wrong end, could be just passing wind though????

Anon at 14:49:59 Friday April 27 2001
www.whataloadofoldcobblers.com-1.net

krs-1 at 14:47:49 Friday April 27 2001
Now that the season's over, does anyone know any cool sites (football or otherwise). I only know: www.theonion.com; www.tvgohome.com; www.maydaymonopoly.net; www.goodfellahenry.com; http://www.agachua.com/anime/fight.swf; www.imdb.com; and www.redmeat.com.

RICHARD at 14:45:20 Friday April 27 2001
IK'CIWT: "New for Old." After abysmal offerings of "A 'Bridge Too Far" on 'The Long Good Friday' and "The Millers' Tale" on 'I Don't Like (Easter) Monday(s)', what a delight to be an integral part of "Finding Forrester" last Saturday. The 'Tides' of February having given way to the 'Rides' of April - not forgetting the Ides of March in between (we really should beware those blessed Ides, you know; something bad always happens!) - Saturday morning dawned with feverish superstition pervading the household. The omens were, however, looking remarkably fortuitous: celestial bodies were in a once-in-a-millenium sympathetic alignment; the resident flock of ravens circumvented our humble patch and evacuated their bowels on some other poor sod's motor, for a change; runes had been cast in favourable symmetry; chicken entrails were assembled in benevolent composition and the usual malodorous breakfast pall, emanating from the witches brew in the scullery, gave way to an 'Aahh..Bisto' -like wafting of sausage, bacon and eggs. Add to this the fact that the morning Manchester derby radio commentary highlighted the Howey/ Whitley fraternal connection, the combination providing Man City with a goal scorer (Steve) and MotM (Jim) to boot, how could we possibly fail! The match was no classic, but this seemed not to matter a great deal. We've played better and lost; CU could have gone away with a point if they'd taken their chances. But we strove to put the past few dreadful results behind us. Players played with more freedom, heads didn't drop so soon, effort was there in abundance. Continuing his spring time assault, Savvo's beeline for goal with the ball super-glued to his instep, ended in his being upended somewhere near the penalty area. Cue a tricky moment for Cobblers fans. Woody, the immovable penalty-saving rock of Sixfields legend and Lily the irresistible goal machine. Something had to give...and it was the Col U net, as Big Dave maintained his 100% spot kick record. The Us sheepishly (sorry, I just couldn't resist) capitulated from then on in unseemly haste as if relegation were not still an issue for them. Thanks to our team effort, Willo had the luxury of blooding youngsters such as Danny "who the hell is that" Lowe, who burst on to the pitch and immediately acquired two things that will stick with him:1. instantly endearing himself to the great unwashed, owing to his fondness for running at the opposition with pace and no little skill; 2. the sobriquet, 'Uncle Festa', for his unfortunate resemblance to the eponymous 'Adams Family' member. It was heart-warming too, to welcome back Cobblers' heroes, "Lee, Lee, Lee Howeee" and "there's only one" Roy Hunter, as they entered the arena to thunderous applause, taking their end-of-season bow. A late 'goal' denied LH and a rasping first challenge from RH that drew a fatherly reprimand from the ref', only added to the general, cosy atmosphere that wasn't far removed from that witnessed at Clarky's benefit game at the end of last season. And of course, there was another old war-horse returning to fields of former triumphs. "Wooooday, Wooooday". The leg-end in his own shorts was regaled by the adoring North Stand with countless chants airing the surely spurious tales of his extra-curricular exploits in this vicinity. He took them all in good humour, even agreeing that he was, indeed, "..Cobblers 'til you die, you're Cobblers 'til you die. You know you are... you're sure you are... you're Cobblers 'til you die". Colchester fans, who provided a goodly turn out, could perhaps be forgiven for being somewhat puzzled at the rapturous praise heaped upon 'their' glove technician, particularly after one exceptional one-handed Gordon Banksesque save from a 'Zimmer' point blank range effort. At times, the volume of noise must have seemed inconsistent with the goings-on on the pitch. Be that as it may, the barracking North Standers distracted a pre-occupied Woody sufficiently into enabling the Jamie goal drought to come to a long overdue end, albeit off the back of his own defender. As that almost forgotten refrain, "Oh Jamie, Jamie.....", rang out once more you could see the utter relief on his face, feel the confidence returning in his body language and relish the prospect of a 20 goal a season striker starting a new campaign in the Mighty Claret & white at the end of the summer. But who his partner will be is a moot point! Rumblings (that's rumours and grumblings combined) in the stands are undecided as to the way forward! But more of that anon. So we've finally completed a double over someone this season. It was along time coming. And surely it would be appropriate, ere long, to consign this season's other unenviable record to the scrap heap i.e. the inability to put more than 2 open play goals past the opposition (unless they happen to hail from a former colliery town and are 'oop for t' coop'). The net result has been woeful goal difference. But tomorrow is another day which never comes. So be thankful for the small crumbs of comfort brushed our way from time to time and glory in the moment while it lasts. Who knows, the next match could be a nightmare!!

Wind of Change at 14:42:49 Friday April 27 2001
WILSON OUT WILSON OUT WILSON OUT WILSON OUT NOW......................................

Wind of Change at 14:42:47 Friday April 27 2001
WILSON OUT WILSON OUT WILSON OUT WILSON OUT NOW......................................

Wind of Change at 14:42:43 Friday April 27 2001
WILSON OUT WILSON OUT WILSON OUT WILSON OUT NOW......................................

richie fan from newzealand at 14:42:26 Friday April 27 2001
Its that bleach its gone to his head.

richie fan from newzealand at 14:38:45 Friday April 27 2001
Ray you bin fiddling with the camra it refreshes every 9 seconds,dont get a chance to see whos doing wat.

Anon at 14:36:3 Friday April 27 2001
sod off jimmy, joke wearing very thin considering that it wasn't even amusing to start with

richie fan from newzealand at 14:31:44 Friday April 27 2001
could be mr frys mrs maybe K.W trying to put him off his job so pish get relegated.nod nod wink wink.

SirJimmyofSaville at 14:16:34 Friday April 27 2001
Goodness, goodness. Gracious, gracious. Now then now then, Claudette. Are you a yoooung lady, who is interested in Professor Kevin of Wilsonshire. Let me tell you, my love, that he is an occupied man. And you are very very naughty yoooung lady to have such thoughts about a grown man as what as has been is Sir Wilson is. Rattle rattle. Jewellery jewellery. Mooney, mooney. Aw ooh aw ooh aw ooh aw.

Claudette at 14:9:9 Friday April 27 2001
Well it sure aint me - mores the pity!!!

richie fan from newzealand at 13:54:35 Friday April 27 2001
or even the babysitter

richie fan from newzealand at 13:52:49 Friday April 27 2001
or even his granny

richie fan from newzealand at 13:51:39 Friday April 27 2001
it could be his mum

Minor Point at 13:50:32 Friday April 27 2001
It's been said that we're playing a stronger side against bournemouth coz they have a chance a playoffs... i think you'll find there is one more team that can also make them. Port Vale. With winning games in hand (which on current form wouldn't be a surprise) they could be better off than bournemouth (when we beat them on sat). I applaud the playing of the youngsters.... but maybe we just did PV a huge favour and could double it on sat.

anon at 13:45:42 Friday April 27 2001
Romsey, how do you know that KW has another half, to coin an overused phrase, if you don't know if it is girlfriend or wife. It could be sister or aunt.

richie fan from newzealand at 13:45:32 Friday April 27 2001
me think fernando needs to sing when hes on the toilet so he knows which end to wipe when hes finished

Richard Gould at 13:42:30 Friday April 27 2001
Oi Ashford!! What about me!!

Anon at 13:32:11 Friday April 27 2001
Did you hear about the bloke who threw his unwanted Viagra tablets down the toilet? It was three weeks before he could get the lid down.

The Romsey Cobbler at 13:31:17 Friday April 27 2001
Anon - no idea mate.

richie fan from newzealand at 13:30:15 Friday April 27 2001
will the real bill clinton stand up

richie fan from newzealand at 13:28:47 Friday April 27 2001
i think we into a bit of scandal here.

anon at 13:21:52 Friday April 27 2001
Girlfriend or wife, Romsey

The Romsey Cobbler at 13:20:37 Friday April 27 2001
veryanonymousbecauseI'mscared - yes, he does.

The Ashford Cobbler at 13:19:28 Friday April 27 2001
Agree with Spaceman. Season is over and if there was something to play for we wouldn't have seen an experimental team against Port Vale as last night. Bear in mind they are the divisions form team with the confidence that goes with winning a major(!) trophy behind them. Looking forward to next team I'd wager that the following 4-4-2 formation with a hunger would give any Div2 team a run for their money. Welch, Lavin, Sampson, Hope, Frain, Hodge, Hunter, Hunt, Hargreaves, Forrester, Big Centre Forward. With a basic cover of Sollitt, Full backs - Dempsey & Spedding, Centre halves, ? Howey (need more here particularly cover for Hope), Wingers - Lopes & Lowe, Midfield - Savage (needs to be hungry for place in side), Forward - Gabiadini. Gives a squad of 19. Needs supplementing with quality in central defense and midfield. Hughes, Morrow, Thompson, Ferguson will be released possibly with Howey as won't make grade in Div 2.

this has to be anon at 13:18:19 Friday April 27 2001
I think you'll find he has both (but dont tell his wife.)

veryanonymousbecauseI'mscared at 13:9:54 Friday April 27 2001
Does anyone know if Kevin Wilson has a wife or girlfriend.

Spaceman at 12:51:45 Friday April 27 2001
Will everyone please stop moaning!! This has been a fine season consolidating our status as a Division 2 team. I believe that Kevin Wilson has done extremely well with the resources available to him and I applaud him as the best manager we've had at the club for years. Sure, we are far perfect. My main gripe over the last few weeks has been the lack of movement up front. Our front two seem to be very static and very few of our midfielders will make runs to produce options for the man with the ball. Some of our defenders do not close down quickly enough and seem to constantly back off when the opposition run, with the ball, at them. I think that everyone got a little carried away by our excellent results at the start of the season and expected us to be pushing for promotion. That wasn't very realistic now was it? Especially when you consider that a number of our wins, back then, were lucky to say the least (Cambridge away, in particular, springs to mind). Things are going a bit pear-shaped now but so what? We have nothing to play for. If our key men were giving 110% but picked up long term injuries in doing so, this would be far more destructive to the club than losing a few points at the end of a season that is effectively over for us.

krs-1 at 12:39:49 Friday April 27 2001
The players Wilson has brought in? Hmmm, Forrester, Gabbiadini, Nicholson, Whitley, Lopes, Dempsey, Green (?), Crowe, Chilvers etc. Not anyone really terrible (okay Canoville looked a bit out of his depth), I think you'll find.

Anon at 12:34:47 Friday April 27 2001
judging by the players wilson has brought to the club would you let him spend any money available.he is only in the job because the bord tell him what to do.if we are in this financial mess now what about next year,and who is respncable for this mess and how come we are in it after two promotions two wembley appearances,woodman, heggs,turley,freestone,gibb,howard all sold to weres the money gone.our just another smokescreen,we are just supporters.think about it.

JimmyofSaville at 11:27:23 Friday April 27 2001
Goodness, goodness. Gracious, gracious. Now then now then, guys and gals. It is clear that I, JimmyofSaville, failed in my bid to fix it for you, Northampton of Town, to win on Thursday night. Sadleh, I have to admit that I had to concede to the many requests for fix ITS for young men to play in the CobbLERS team on Thursday night. And you know how I like young men. Loovely. And I thought, now then now then, give them that chance. And Kevin of Wilson, nice man nice man thought it would be a splendid thing to do. It's not in the loSING anyway, it's in the taking part. And all those looovely children had a fantastic time and received gold fix it badges which they will treasure for the rest of their young lives. So when you are being very very naughty saying naughty naughty things about Kevin of Wilsonshire, remember what he has done for these children. Oh and now then now then I have a letter from a young lady saying: "Dear Jimmy, could you fix it for me to meet the famous 80s detectives Dempsey and Makepiece." Well, as you may now know, Dempsey now plays for Northampton Town and I do believe Makepiece, having retired from policing is now one of the PR people on the Sixifield pitch. So it should be, as they say, a dawdle. Rattle rattle. Jewellery jewellery. Mooney, mooney. Aw ooh aw ooh aw ooh aw.

Kevin Wilson at 11:26:45 Friday April 27 2001
Tactics??? What's that? I've heard of tacks but not tactics. Can someone please help?!

Fernando at 11:25:0 Friday April 27 2001
Carlo Corazzin will sign for Peterborough at the end of the season. Just thought you'd like to know. If you don't believe me then just wait and see!

Fernando at 11:19:22 Friday April 27 2001
I'm no Rushden & Diamonds fan but they will win promotion this season, and within five seasons will be a decent Division One Side. As for Northampton they will surely go down next season, as they would have this season had it not been for Jamie Forresters goals at the start of the season. You rely too much on him, ever since he became about as much use as a glass eye so have the team. Next season he will be a Wigan player though.

Fernando at 11:18:58 Friday April 27 2001
I'm no Rushden & Diamonds fan but they will win promotion this season, and within five seasons will be a decent Division One Side. As for Northampton they will surely go down next season, as they would have this season had it not been for Jamie Forresters goals at the start of the season. You rely too much on him, ever since he became about as much use as a glass eye so have the team. Next season he will be a Wigan player though.

HotelEnder at 11:2:13 Friday April 27 2001
Butter Finers! If Sollitt's goal keeping was like your spelling we'd have lost seven nothing. We are lucky to have two excellent keepers. The problem was mainly Wilson's change of tactics to 3-5-2 in the first half, especially when one of the three is only half fit. If Savage or Jamie had put away two good chances in the first half it could have been a different story. Having said that P.V.did look the better side by quite a margin

krs-1 at 10:33:48 Friday April 27 2001
Stumbling in from the "game" last night, I caught the back end of the Clough documentary on Channel 4. What particularly cheered me up after our "performace" was when he said: "I don't like Germans, 'cause they shot me Dad." Brilliant.

krs-1 at 10:26:3 Friday April 27 2001
Lopes had a couple of good runs last night. I wonder if that bloke will come on here slating him again soon.

Anon at 10:20:12 Friday April 27 2001
bum biscuits and mouse poo

Chris W at 10:7:15 Friday April 27 2001
Dyl. F*ck off. Are U related to Ron Atkinson

???? at 10:4:11 Friday April 27 2001
Hunter never looked like he'd been away. I don't know what you were watching.

Fernando at 10:3:9 Friday April 27 2001
Jamie Forrester will sign for Wigan at the end of the season. Its official and you heard it here first. He will be replaced by Mansfields Chris Greenacre. A possible loan move for Leicesters Trevor Benjamin could be on for next season. He has not been in the first team this season very much, and if Leicester are successful with their planned �2.5m bid for Crewe's Dean Ashton then he will not be needed.

Goodbye and all the best at 10:2:1 Friday April 27 2001
Frain, Frain, Frain. Thanks for everything and all the best in the future. Where-ever that may be.

Dyl at 10:0:48 Friday April 27 2001
I don't know what you were watching butter fingers, but with both of the goals Sollitt was exposed by his defence. On the first, there were 2 PV strikers a good 5 yards ahead of the nearest defenders, and on the second Solllitt did his best but again was let down by his defence. Playing Howey really backfired, he was well off the pace and constantly allowed players to make runs without attempting to pursue them. If he has a future with us it is in the Steve Howard role, otherwise I don't think he's up to Div 2 standard anymore. Positives from last night were Sollitt, Caruthers who looked lively and enthusiastic (he'll have to learn another trick though), Hunter who looked like he'd never been away, and Lowe who made a superb chase after a long ball that none of our other players would have got near let alone won.

Butter Fingers at 9:56:11 Friday April 27 2001
Everyone seems to be saying that Sollitt had a good game and for him to be named Man of the Match shows you just how crap the rest of the team played. He consistantly dropped the ball or just parried it away. I can't remember him holding onto it once. I think that he could have done better with both of the goals. One of them he definantly should have held on to. Welch without a shadow of a doubt is the number 1 for a long time to come. Welch Player of the year by a mile.

Butter Finers at 9:56:1 Friday April 27 2001
Everyone seems to be saying that Sollitt had a good game and for him to be named Man of the Match shows you just how crap the rest of the team played. He consistantly dropped the ball or just parried it away. I can't remember him holding onto it once. I think that he could have done better with both of the goals. One of them he definantly should have held on to. Welch without a shadow of a doubt is the number 1 for a long time to come. Welch Player of the year by a mile.

MAD at 9:50:7 Friday April 27 2001
Gabbi crap??? I can't see how anyone can say that. Yeah sure, he hasn't played brill this season but then again who has. Only Welch if you ask me. I thought that last night Gabbi and Savage were our two best players. If Forrester hadn't scored so many goals at the start of the season surely it would be HIM getting all the stick and not Gabbi. Gabbi always looks for that pass that will open the game up and very often dribbles past the other team. What does Forrester do? Last night Gabbi gave us a lot of good touches and yes there were a few bad ones as well. But in relation to him trying, I think he tried harder than most out there. At the end of the day it all boils down to Wilson. The players never seem to know what they should be doing on the pitch or where they should be. And surely that's down to him. The only good thing about tis season is that it's nearly over.

Richard at 9:45:17 Friday April 27 2001
I thought Port Vale were the best team I have seen at Sixfields for a long time there passing was top class and we were just chasing shadows. Plus points, Roy Hunter looked good as did Savage and Sollitt. After last nights match Gabbiadini and Frain must go and we can't afford to keep a player like Hodge when he only plays an average of about 1 in every 2 games. So Hodge, Frain and Gabbiadini out and Lavin, Clare (he will still be free in the summer) Cramb and 2 or 3 others in. It is a shame Nicholson left cause I think we are also short of a left back, unless Hope can play there well. Team for Next year GK Welch LB Hope, RB Lavin CB Sammo CB Howey LM Hargreaves CM Savage CM Hunt RM Hodge CF Forrester CF New Player. Although I would like to have Hunter in the team I don't think he will get past Hunt or Savage on current form. Maybe we could learn from Post Vale and play 4-5-1 with 3 players breaking from midfield and not hoofing the ball long but passing it to feet instead.

JDTNTFC at 9:43:37 Friday April 27 2001
Lets face it Jamie and Gabbs can play as badly as they like, Why ? Because there are no other strikers at the club to put any pressure on them. Morrow and Thompson are simply not good enough, lets face it they have not done anything hardly in the reserves let alone the first team. We need some new strikers in at the club, one must be a tall player( no matter what people say we still play long balls, and with our 2 forwards what is the point) we also need a pacy striker Jamie and Gabbs are SLOW. Although i think its not just the forwards that are slow the defence is awell. Still on a lighter note KC I shall be in the north stand next season. UTC FTP FTD!!!!!!!!!

TRB Mark at 9:25:44 Friday April 27 2001
My big fear after Atkins left was that the steel backbone and defending discipline we had would dissapear. This seems to have happened. PV's second goal was a defending joke. Four Cobblers players (the older heads btw)bunched running towards the attacker running down the wing. Strolling up through the centre was a PV forward, completly unmarked with the said 4 not even looking, let alone marking him. The North stand shouted "he's behind you" as it was pure pantomime.

re: marathon at 9:14:31 Friday April 27 2001
Anon, just read your message posted on Sunday about the marathon, Thanks. How did you know it was me? as I wearing my Charity top not my Cobblers one. Thanks again.

Tranter at 9:13:33 Friday April 27 2001
Anon, just read your message posted on Sunday about the marathon, Thanks. How did you know it was me? as I wearing a Charity top not my Cobblers one. Thanks again.

Anon at 9:7:33 Friday April 27 2001
we always look a better side with Hodge tho'

Hartwell at 8:34:52 Friday April 27 2001
We look very good going backwards slowly.

COUNTY COBBLER at 7:7:15 Friday April 27 2001
Our midfield has never given consistant performances all season,I suggest players like Savage and Hodge are the reason for this.Yes they have very good games but usually only one in four.Again last night Savage was excellent for 30 minutes and then disappearred!The side need at least 5 or 6 new players with some pace and power,sorry Mr.Frain I hope you are a squad player next season.

9224 at 0:34:54 Friday April 27 2001
I'm off to do some work. damn lecturers, not only do we have to listen to them, they expect us to understand them too

KC at 0:33:55 Friday April 27 2001
Cheers 9224 - anyway im off to bed so i can dream about Cobblers winning the Champions League! cya!

9224 at 0:29:11 Friday April 27 2001
no probs here

KC at 0:28:17 Friday April 27 2001
I struggle to understand Big Ron aswell and even if i do i always always disagree! anon u seem to have a problem with me! Does anyone else?

9224 at 0:26:47 Friday April 27 2001
INTRODUCING THE ALL-NEW CALENDAR!!! Designed with erratic Irishmen in mind, this new calendar has ONLY TWO MONTHS. 182 DAYS OF MARCH and 183 DAYS OF APRIL (levelled out every four years). COMING SOON TO A STADIUM NEAR YOU!!!!

anon at 0:25:51 Friday April 27 2001
kc - please o please o please just go away u sad little man

Ash at 0:25:27 Friday April 27 2001
Cheers KC

KC at 0:24:49 Friday April 27 2001
Savage always seems to play well at the end of the season! WHY cant he do it all season!

9224 at 0:24:47 Friday April 27 2001
re commentators. I find it's hard to disagree with a word Big Ron says. Although that may be because I've not understood one yet!!

Ash at 0:23:47 Friday April 27 2001
Just found out Bryon Butler has died. Another part of my childhood disappears. Today's commentators don't have the personality the old ones did. Ingham, Greene & the rest are nowhere near the league of Peter Jones & Bryon Butler. Mike Ingham said his voice was 'like a warm overcoat' and for anyone who listened through his radio commentaries in the 70's today is a very sad day.

9224 at 0:20:41 Friday April 27 2001
My theory is the Hodge was being rested. Let's hope it's nothing more than that!

KC at 0:20:22 Friday April 27 2001
Happy Birthday Ash!

Lancaster Cobbler at 0:20:5 Friday April 27 2001
I have heard CC likes his alcohol!!

anon at 0:19:36 Friday April 27 2001
kc - please go away u talk absolute rubbish

KC at 0:18:56 Friday April 27 2001
Anyone know where Hodge was tonite?

KC at 0:17:53 Friday April 27 2001
I like him as an attacker he is quite tall but not massive! he is a good header of the ball but also can score some sweet goals, would be a good buy!

Ash at 0:17:36 Friday April 27 2001
Not half as drunk as I thought I was going to be. Trust the Cobbs to spoil me birthday! Didn't think we were that bad tonight, just thought it smacked of end of season nothing to play for rubbish. Felt the kids gave it everything whereas others just accepted the result.

9224 at 0:16:28 Friday April 27 2001
and would he thrive on Hodge-type crosses?

9224 at 0:15:49 Friday April 27 2001
is he tall?

KC at 0:15:14 Friday April 27 2001
My honest opinion is that we would be better off without Gabbiadini!Perhaps bring in Colin Cramb??

9224 at 0:11:54 Friday April 27 2001
Hi Rob, how r the exams?

9224 at 0:11:35 Friday April 27 2001
Just read on Latest News that Kev wants us to play 442 next year. How's abouts (R to L) GK.Welch, DF. Dempsey, Sampson, Hope, Frain, MF. Hodge, Hunter, Hunt, Hargreaves, FW. Forrester, Gabbiadini - SUBS. Sollitt, Howey, Savage, Spedding + AN Other ?????

Lancaster Cobbler at 0:11:29 Friday April 27 2001
Good point where was Hodge??

9224 at 0:8:37 Friday April 27 2001
just remember when blame is dished out tonight which of the senior players DIDN'T feature tonight, despite being superb on Saturday. It will be a absolute crime if the Hodge leaves - why can't our managers handle the better players???? However, that said I support Kev and want him to stay, remembering how he turned it round last time we got on his back (myself included - but I'm not proud of it) - just don't ask me to choose between him and Hodgie!!

KC at 0:6:2 Friday April 27 2001
Well if thats what everyone thinks then i will stop posting, but i will never be a direones fan!

Anon as well at 0:5:30 Friday April 27 2001
Message for Anon - how come your always on here if you dont like what we say?

Anon at 0:0:51 Friday April 27 2001
Message for kc - nobody likes u on this msg board so go away and support Diamonds!

KC at 23:59:33 Thursday April 26 2001
Thats a bit cheeky Ray!

billy at 23:53:41 Thursday April 26 2001
Every time we play against a side with a half decent midfield they walk all over us and Port Vale certainly taught us a lesson tonight. Marco looked liked he just couldnt be bothered maybe he is fed up with the lack of service he is getting but for a player of his supposed quality he should be able to impose his style of play on the team and make things happen on the pitch. I for one wont be sorry to see him leave in the summer, especially if we then use the savings from his wages to keep hold of Savage and sign someone like Cramb, Neilson or Watkin to play alongside Jamie..... and why are people now saying the consortium deal is off? I thought it was all still in the melting pot.

Ray at 23:52:35 Thursday April 26 2001
Actually I think it was Port Vales fault we lost.

KC at 23:43:22 Thursday April 26 2001
Surely its the players faults we lost, they didnt seem bothered!

Whats gone wrong? at 23:38:35 Thursday April 26 2001
OK, so Whitley is no Ryan Giggs, but he's no footballer either. WE WANT BROADHURST BACK, WE SAID WE WANT BROADHURST BACK

Paul at 23:38:6 Thursday April 26 2001
Wilson will try and move Gabbers on in the summer... watch this space!!

KC at 23:23:31 Thursday April 26 2001
Am not going Chris! Things do look bleak tonight! A terrible performance, losses of �1million and looks like no consortium take over!

Chris W at 23:12:20 Thursday April 26 2001
Where's all the Cobblers fans meeting in Bournemouth on the Friday night then?

KC at 23:6:47 Thursday April 26 2001
How you can say the kids looked bad i dont know, the worst player on the field was probably the oldest! For what Gabbi gets paid i think we can at least expect him to try! there was one point in the 2nd half when jamie went through and tumbled over and gabii stopped expecting a free kick! Lopes had a blinder as did the other youngsters considering it was there first game! Its Great to see Hunter bk tho! BUT well played Port Vale they really did take the micky!

Corporal Frasier at 22:50:8 Thursday April 26 2001
We're doooooooooomed.

Ralph2 at 22:44:42 Thursday April 26 2001
I said,I can't talk now,I'm starving and I'm going to get a hot-dog.Exscuse me,can I get through please.

Graham at 22:44:11 Thursday April 26 2001
I have to echo those sentiments Alan, we began in a formation of 3-4-2-1 and the players looked confused, you could see thm trying to sort it out as they went along. We then went 3-5-2 and at half-time came out as 4-4-2. Wilson's tacics are at best inept. We hardly kept the ball for more than three passes whilst Port Vale regularly put together 8,9,10 passes and without paying particular attention I counted 21 successful passes. It was like a practise match, they had it won and did not want to exert themselves any further with their forthcoming programme. We were awful.

Allan at 22:38:44 Thursday April 26 2001
The team tonight had all the qualities that we came to expect from the John Barnwell era! Port Vale were everything we were not and if we carry on anything like this next season then it will be a relegation dogfight. Wilson is talking about a shake up in personnel, let's hope it is not just talk. The worse we get the better Savage plays, odd that! These kids that we have got do not look like they have the wit to force their way in to the side for next season, they lack something. All I can say is that tonight's performance was like watching ITV, very little drama, many unanswered questions, repeat after repeat and just basically crap! Roll on cricket season I have had enough!!!!

Anon at 22:32:57 Thursday April 26 2001
one to blame wilson.he has brought all the youth police through gabbiadini,hodge,green,its the biggest wage bill ever and we are in the cart.the performance tonight was abysmal as they have been for the last six months.its just as well we had a good start on our promotion mementum.wilson is clueless the players he has brouthg in have weakened what was the best squad of players we have had.tactically hes clueless no drive no excitment the worst football i,ve scene in years.hes got to go.we need drive and determination.at the moment we have not got it.the youth polices a shambles,then again you have only look at who,s running it to see why,a million pound losslast year, keep up the good work you bord,shades of ten years ago,i hope not.relagation next year ,great chance.weres that smoke screen.

Andy at 22:29:24 Thursday April 26 2001
Think about those who went down with us in 1999, York, Lincoln and Macclesfield. They have all been involved in the dreaded drop to the conference this season. Give credit to The Cobblers for being the only team to bounce back

wotsthisallabout?!! at 22:22:1 Thursday April 26 2001
could be a rumour........ at 22:39:12 Tuesday April 24 2001 heard the gym keeps KW very busy, and 'you know what' I reckon a few months and the sprog'll start to show - hasn't he got 3 sprogs already!

Anon at 22:19:46 Thursday April 26 2001
48?

Anon at 22:2:38 Thursday April 26 2001
To solve an argument, does anyone remember how many points we got when we were last relegated from div 2?

Anon at 21:34:35 Thursday April 26 2001
All over 2-0. Pants!

Says it all at 21:30:36 Thursday April 26 2001
Adam Sollitt voted Man of the Match. Just shows what direction we're going in when the goalkleeper's our best player.

Sparky at 21:29:55 Thursday April 26 2001
I heard we have drawn you at home in the Maunsell cup

Anon at 21:26:4 Thursday April 26 2001
Danny Lowe's coming on for Gabbiadini. Since more youngsters came on we've not conceded any goals, strange that!

The Ashford Cobbler at 21:17:25 Thursday April 26 2001
Look on the bright side. Half time scores on Teletext invision - Aldershot 0 Chesham 0 in the Ryman paper clip league. We used to play them. Second division next year here we come.

Neil at 20:57:22 Thursday April 26 2001
Roy Hunter on - most probably the biggest cheer of the night!!

Neil at 20:49:8 Thursday April 26 2001
Substitution - Chris Carruthers (i know him) on for Howey. Good to see more youngsters in the squad.

Neil at 20:35:30 Thursday April 26 2001
I've listened to radio commentary - shouldn't have bothered! Bloody awful, no atmosphere, crap defending, no decent chances...shall i go on??

Deepcut Cobbler at 20:33:39 Thursday April 26 2001
The 0-2 to PV was last updated at 20.01. COME ON YOU COBBLERS!!!

Deepcut Cobbler at 20:31:6 Thursday April 26 2001
2-0 according to BBC online, anyone have access to a radio commentary? COME ON YOU COBBLERS!!!

The one eyed man at 20:12:29 Thursday April 26 2001
I bet you wish you still had Billy Turkey in goal

Anon at 20:7:39 Thursday April 26 2001
Yeah!

Sean from London at 20:6:3 Thursday April 26 2001
Are we really 2-0 down!!

Anon at 20:2:44 Thursday April 26 2001
0-2

Sean from London (working) at 20:0:30 Thursday April 26 2001
Any score yet?

Anon at 19:58:25 Thursday April 26 2001
Hartwell have you got any info on this?

Anon at 19:56:18 Thursday April 26 2001
TCMP says on this site: "The consortium did make an offer in March that was turned down as it was not detailed enough for the Board to form an opinion" Today, Stonhill says "They did put something forward that was totally unacceptable and anyone in their right mind would have said the same." funny that?

9224 at 18:57:37 Thursday April 26 2001
Latest news: NTFC made loss of over 1,000,000 to 30/6/2000. BUT, Barry Stonhill's explanation and comments both made sense and were reassuring.

Anon at 18:44:26 Thursday April 26 2001
Hi People

lee at 18:37:29 Thursday April 26 2001
just been looking on lutonfc.com at there message board some dickhead reckons they are going to sign forrester in the summer.If you go on there you can post him a response .

Chris at 18:24:42 Thursday April 26 2001
Quick, look at CobblerCam, there are people on the pitch. It's a lot of fun.

KC at 18:19:48 Thursday April 26 2001
Ray - i will e-mail you ok, i got to leave for the game!

Ray at 18:13:14 Thursday April 26 2001
Who - for example?

KC at 17:45:0 Thursday April 26 2001
Ray - i know, its due to now there is only me sorting this out and there is alot of stuff to be done, i need somebody to assist me in contacting certain businesses etc for sponsorship amongst other things

Ray at 17:42:34 Thursday April 26 2001
I havent heard from you....

KC at 17:33:5 Thursday April 26 2001
Im afraid to say due to lack of support we may have to cancel Clubs In Crisis, that is unless anyone would like to help me with arrangements as my fellow organiser has dropped out. If you can help then please e-mail me.

KC at 17:28:12 Thursday April 26 2001
Anyone seen Jan Molbys comments in tonights chron?

KC at 17:26:33 Thursday April 26 2001
I would have - GK - Martyn, CB - Ferdinand, CB - Campbell, RB - G.Neville, LB - Chris Powell, CM - Gerrard, CM - Scholes, RW - Beckham, LW - Ashley Cole, ST - Heskey, ST - Owen.5 SUBS - Joe Cole, Seaman,Bowyer, Phillips,Woodgate

Richard at 17:10:35 Thursday April 26 2001
I don't think I would play Dyer. GK-Martyn, CB Campbell and Ferdinand, RB G.Neville LB Asley Cole LM Heskey/Owen RM Beckham CM Scholes and Gerard CF Owen/Heskey and Andy Cole Subs from Fowler, J.Cole, P.Neville(just cause he can play about 4 postions) Bowyer, Powell, Butt, J.Redknapp, D.James, Dyer, Phillips, Woodgate, McManaman and Carragher

KC at 16:57:8 Thursday April 26 2001
Where would u play Dyer?

KC at 16:52:14 Thursday April 26 2001
I sont suppose anyone in the kettering area can give me a lift to tonights game can they?

Richard at 16:48:41 Thursday April 26 2001
A bif man upfront always gives you that extra option, so I think Heskey Owen and Cole would work well. Both Owen and Heskey could then change between left wing and centre forward in a 4-4-2 formation. And Beckham must play right midfield cause of his crossing alone.

krs-1 at 16:44:51 Thursday April 26 2001
Oooh, temper! Alright then, what does everyone think about Sven's recent statement that he is considering using Michael Owen as a left-winger? Is he an organic replacement because of his natural pace and instinctive forward play, or does a more central role suit his dependence and utilisation of a physically stronger player to shield the ball and allow Owen to run off a held pass in the third quarter of the field. Or would Owen be better employed running from behind the ball in the classic "Keegan-Toshack" forward partnership role? Or is the oft-utilised "little and large" partnership (see Forrester and Howard) a dying trend in these modern times of three centre backs and deep lying sweepers, who are able to employ man-marking systems with other players spare to protect defensive space which may be attacked by deep lying central midfielders or attacking midfielders?

Why???? at 16:34:38 Thursday April 26 2001
Why does this page always seem to go off the subject of the Cobblers and football? If you want to have a chat about crap why don't you log on else where.

David Ginola at 16:26:27 Thursday April 26 2001
Dear Jim, Please can you fix it for me to run & cross like Maurice Muir.

krs-1 at 16:0:33 Thursday April 26 2001
Alright then, Jim, can you fix it for me to have my packed lunch on a "loop-the-loop" rollercoaster? Cheers.

JimmyofSaville at 15:48:7 Thursday April 26 2001
Goodness, goodness. Gracious, gracious. Now then now then. You, K of C have the next best thing. That is that you, K of C, get the chance for me Jimmy of SaVILLE to fix something for YOU live on Cobblers of Commentshire. Owzabout that then. As for Showaddywaddy they're shite. Rattle rattle. Jewellery jewellery. Mooney, mooney. Aw ooh aw ooh aw ooh aw.

krs-1 at 15:44:25 Thursday April 26 2001
Dear Jim, please could you fix it for me to meet Showaddywaddy. Cheers.

KC at 15:37:49 Thursday April 26 2001
As a little nipper i did actually always want to go on Jim'll fix it!

JimmyofSaville at 15:26:34 Thursday April 26 2001
Goodness, goodness. Gracious, gracious. Aw ooh aw ooh aw ooh aw. Owzabout you K of C, ask me Jimmy of Saville to fix it for you, K of C to have a ticket for the Bournemouthshire match and see if I, lo and behold, can produce one for you, K of C. Meanwhile I, Jimmy of Savillllllle will retire to my rec-ORD play-ER and play the latest hit from Bachman of Turner Overdrive. Rattle rattle. Jewellery jewellery. I have got a lot of mooney of which I give some to cheritteee. Aw ooh aw ooh aw ooh aw.

KC at 14:49:48 Thursday April 26 2001
Im a bit dissapointed we wont be having a pitch invasion this year! They were becoming quite regular!

KC at 14:43:20 Thursday April 26 2001
Jimmy - You couldnt fix it for me to have a ticket for Bournemouth could ya?

JimmyofSaville at 14:39:12 Thursday April 26 2001
Goodness, goodness. Gracious, gracious. Aw ooh aw ooh aw ooh aw. Owzabout I fix it for you, Northampton of Town, to win against Port of Vale using nothing more than youth players. That, as they say, would be a very... good result. And I, JimmyofSaville would be greatly heartened if, indeed, that were to happen. Rattle rattle. Jewellery jewellery. Mooney, mooney. Aw ooh aw ooh aw ooh aw.

A real fixure pile up...... at 14:36:56 Thursday April 26 2001
Pity poor Canvey Island FC. They played Tuesday, and last nights game was abandoned. They are now playing tonight,Saturday, Sunday, and every day from Tuesday to Saturday next week! Great preparation for the Trophy Final.

KC at 14:33:19 Thursday April 26 2001
It doesnt help if there is as i cannot drive to get to Sixfields!

KC at 14:16:55 Thursday April 26 2001
Any of those 15 tickets left?

Ray at 13:39:40 Thursday April 26 2001
Yes - this IS my day job.

Paul S at 13:26:18 Thursday April 26 2001
Thanks anyway krs-1, but managed to send wife down to Sixfields and have now got a ticket

PHIL MITCHELL at 12:52:8 Thursday April 26 2001
DO YOU HAVE A DAY JOB, RAY?

krs-1 at 11:17:23 Thursday April 26 2001
Sorry Paul S I haven't got a ticket I'm afraid. I was going to go on the train tomorrow on a bit of a jolly and try and get tickets when I get there. We always get tickets for Prem games, usually at the train station, so I'm sure there will be some floating around at Bournemouth. Either that or you can try offering a steward a few quid to let you in a gate. Mind you, probably loads of filth about so maybe not a good idea.

I'll repeat it at 11:7:2 Thursday April 26 2001
BOURNEMOUTH!! 15 tickets on sale at Sixfields - personal callers only - first come first served!!!

Ray at 11:6:27 Thursday April 26 2001
BOURNEMOUTH!! 15 tickets on sale at Sixfields - personal callers only - first come first served!!!

Ray at 11:1:51 Thursday April 26 2001
The story about Jim Smith and the supporters is that Smith wants to set up a "Chester City Democratic Supporters Association" and two of the existing supporters groups object. All sounds a bit odd to me. I don't think Chester will fold.

billy at 10:58:12 Thursday April 26 2001
Chester wont fold before the end of the season so stop worrying about it. Its just their chairman Terry Smith making idle threats to shut the club down because hes having a spat with some fans who are (quite rightly it would seem) complaining about the way the club is being run. But if Smith is looking to get out and wants a return on his 'investment' he will surely sell the club as a going concern rather than a building plot. Besides which I would rather that the fans in Chester have a club to support and not go out of business, even if it does mean Direones come up - which doesnt bother me anyway.

Paul S at 10:57:3 Thursday April 26 2001
krs-1 (or anybody else for that matter) If you've decided not to go to Bornmuff I'd be very interested in buying a ticket from you for a South Coast Cobbler

Ray at 10:49:8 Thursday April 26 2001
OK - if Chester fold, the top of the conference will look like this. R&D Played 39, Points 77, Yeovil Played 37, Points 74. Number of games to play - 21 teams left in the conference, each team plays 40 games - Rushden will have only 1 game left, Yeovil will have 3.

Ray at 10:43:26 Thursday April 26 2001
Yes the game is still on tonight and no inspection is planned.

krs-1 at 10:35:36 Thursday April 26 2001
There's blazing sunshine here in Milton Keynes Town, so I would say tonight's game is almost certainly ON. Whats the latest regarding ticketless Cobbs fans going to Bournemouth? I was going to go for the craic but think I'll probably go to Diamonds instead for a laugh.

Richard at 10:30:45 Thursday April 26 2001
Is the game still on tonight, and how many season tickets have been sold?

Dyl at 10:10:45 Thursday April 26 2001
I must have misread the Yeovil site

Vince at 10:7:48 Thursday April 26 2001
.....or even won't last the season.

Vince at 10:6:13 Thursday April 26 2001
Dyl, Yeovil have played Chester twice, won one and lost one. R&D's have played them once and won. That means both clubs would lose 3 points but Yeovil would have 2 games in hand instead of 1. If they gain 7 points from these 3 games they would win the league as R&D's. At the moment Yeovil are relying on R&D's dropping points. As I said before It's a bit unlikely at this late stage but seemingly a lot of people who follow the Conference think Chester last the season

Ash at 10:3:16 Thursday April 26 2001
If Chester folded it could save Kettering though.

Ash at 10:2:13 Thursday April 26 2001
Ray, all these polls that are appearing on sites. I take it they are advertising but do you know if the sites get paid to host them, or do they just set up the poll & the results for you? And as its my birthday can we have a worst player ever poll?

Dyl at 9:56:18 Thursday April 26 2001
Yeovil have beaten them twice, Diamonds once. Yeovil therefore would probably be hurt more if CC folded before fulfilling their fixture list.

Ray at 9:53:9 Thursday April 26 2001
If Chester fold then any games they have already played, th epoints would be deducted from the current table. I dont know what the results were between Chester/Rushden/Yeovil.

krs-1 at 9:38:17 Thursday April 26 2001
Would Ru$$$hden not just win by default?

Ash at 9:29:54 Thursday April 26 2001
Seems a shame to wander past the Melly without pausing for a jar or two.

Vince at 9:26:6 Thursday April 26 2001
Apparently Chester City are in danger of folding before the end of the current season. A bit unlikely as they only have a few games left including a potential full house against R&D's as their last game of the season. However if they did fold it would give Yeovil an extra game to overhaul R&D's for the title.

#1#1#1#1#1 FRANK LARGE at 8:59:36 Thursday April 26 2001
He is the Number One Cobblers Player of the past 40 years, I dont care what any survey says he was Cobblers and any club he played for through and through!!! Shame half you moaners missed him!!

krs-1 at 8:50:13 Thursday April 26 2001
The Melly??? Get yourself round the Beavers, young man! Or alternatively the concrete shed between the two where the old bookie lives!

Ash at 8:17:46 Thursday April 26 2001
Why is Frank Large not on the greatest Cobbler of all time survey on the waloc site? Morley may have had more flair but I bet Frank never wore shiny grey slip-ons with shiny grey trousers & white socks. And a grey leather tie. And rolled his jacket sleeves up to his elbows. And I bet Frank didn't spend more time in the bathroom than his missus either.

ash at 8:13:43 Thursday April 26 2001
Today is my birthday, and I may not make it to the game. If anyone sees me lying outside the Squirrels\Melly\Chevys etc my match ticket is in my back pocket - help yourselves. If female try front pockets first please.

Whehay at 23:58:26 Wednesday April 25 2001
Truuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuump!

Anon at 23:2:47 Wednesday April 25 2001
i played football with brad peircewright on sunday. remember he was the 1 who went off 2 qpr coz atkins only offered him 3 mnths. poor kids playing 4 the scarborough reserves. i megged him as well, tee hee hee!!!!

Ralph2 at 23:2:34 Wednesday April 25 2001
I can't talk now I need a hotdog.

geezer at 22:45:45 Wednesday April 25 2001
well i thought what a load of old cobblers was very good

Tommy wrong at 21:18:43 Wednesday April 25 2001
oops sorry Hartwell, not you, but your adversary

Tommy at 21:10:34 Wednesday April 25 2001
Hartwell, I'm glad we weren't around during WW1 I would hate to have you next to me in the trenches

To Hartwell at 19:51:22 Wednesday April 25 2001
you're close but not that close. The consortium look to have retired to the shadows for the meantime to see what develops, particularly the AGM. One thing that is certain is that if no deal develops, players will be sold in the summer and no doubt D3 awaits us. A harsh dose of reality.

fat bastard and podge at 18:50:37 Wednesday April 25 2001
we are one and the same

Anon at 18:48:57 Wednesday April 25 2001
The Website is www.whataloadofoldcobblers.com-1.net

PODGE at 18:43:36 Wednesday April 25 2001
i am building a small web site with cobble chat facilities will be ready very soon address is purebloodedcobbler.freeservers.com try it on saturday

fat bastard from swansea game at 18:18:54 Wednesday April 25 2001
i was reading comments about getting a chat roomgive me acouple of days and i can get one purely devoted to the town

DavCobbler at 18:6:26 Wednesday April 25 2001
I`m struggling with that one too??? Then again, right thick fekk me......

anon 2 at 18:5:23 Wednesday April 25 2001
I can't get on that web page by the 13 yr old, it came up this domain thing, that cant b ite, surely???

DavCobbler at 18:3:2 Wednesday April 25 2001
Evening folks......just read through today`s comments and the one that strikes me as being rich is the one where "Anon" says......."i really wish people would have the balls to see these criticisms to my face instead of having to type them on a website " Oh deary me, your poor missinformed soul, you really do have my utmost concern. Anyway, p!ss take over.......anyone got any buckets for the pitch?? Without them I think we could be up sh!t street.......paddle sailing off into the distance.

Big Mo at 18:0:50 Wednesday April 25 2001
come on kev we should be port vale they had a lucky win on sunday.

Anon at 17:59:51 Wednesday April 25 2001
o

Anon at 17:59:36 Wednesday April 25 2001
y

Anon at 17:59:24 Wednesday April 25 2001
i

Anon at 17:59:13 Wednesday April 25 2001
q

Anon at 17:59:2 Wednesday April 25 2001
w

Anon at 17:58:51 Wednesday April 25 2001
g

Anon at 17:58:17 Wednesday April 25 2001
h

Anon at 17:54:15 Wednesday April 25 2001
i am 13 and www.whataloadofcobblers.com-1.net is my website. i'm so sorry that i put maroon and white, it's just that i was in a rush to get it on the internet.

Hotel Ender at 17:45:13 Wednesday April 25 2001
re: chants - I thought our chant (back of West Stand) was ok too - who's Woody shagging? who, who, who ......(OK I'll get me coat)

Please.. at 17:29:7 Wednesday April 25 2001
Could you please,please,please fix it for me to play for the Cobblers, I could turn out to be the next big Steve, but better of course

Hartwell at 17:27:41 Wednesday April 25 2001
I hope the consortium does buy the club and that the message below turns out to be accurate. we may know more after tomorrow's AGM -- at least we should get an update. If it does go ahead we can and should expect some Italian players. If they are of good quality it should be good for the club and interesting for us fans. The introduction of Italian prospects to give them experience in the English league sounds sensible from both sides. After all it is difficult for players with the larger Italian clubs to get competitive games as they don't I believe run reserve teams. Rather farm their players out to Serie C teams, some of whom are feeder clubs. Graze.

JimmyofSaville at 17:22:57 Wednesday April 25 2001
Now then, now then. Your wish, as they say, is indeed my command. K of C you will now receive a very very very... special Jim Fixed It For Me badge. I do very sincerely request that Barry of Stonhill, nice man nice man, do herewith relinquish, indeed, control of Northampton of Town and hand the reins to soomeone with more mooney. That would be smashing, super, great, loovely. Sorry, just slipped into Jim Bowen speak, a very very good friend of mine. Rattle rattle. Jewellery, jewellery.

KC at 17:9:22 Wednesday April 25 2001
Jim - could u please fix it for Northampton Town to become Rich

MartinW at 17:6:1 Wednesday April 25 2001
There's just one thing to say after the fine words of JimmyofSaville. I woonder if he could fix it for Max of Griggs, fine man fine fine man, to take all his loovely mooney and send it to Sixfields. Loovely loovely.

JimmyofSaville at 17:0:27 Wednesday April 25 2001
Goodness, goodness. Gracious, gracious. Aw ooh aw ooh aw ooh aw. Having just finished yet another London of Marathon, I thought owzabout that I, Jimmy of Saville, fix it for he, Kevin of Wilson, to have lots more mooney with which to buy more players and pay for their wages. Rattle rattle. Jewellery jewellery. Mooney, mooney. Aw ooh aw ooh aw ooh aw.

krs-1 at 16:42:20 Wednesday April 25 2001
If you've got a busy messageboard, the site practically writes itself.

KC at 15:42:42 Wednesday April 25 2001
Now that is up to date! lol! I think the problem is with people doing Cobblers website they are up against such strong competition! Theres this site, the official one and also the rivals.net site! They are all very good although of course Rays is number 1!

KC at 15:37:24 Wednesday April 25 2001
Apparently it was a 13yr old kid who did it so to be fair its quite a good effort!

krs-1 at 15:36:54 Wednesday April 25 2001
You could always try www.stormloader.com/cobblers... The news section is quite up to date, I believe...

Anon at 15:24:0 Wednesday April 25 2001
i really wish people would have the balls to see these criticisms to my face instead of having to type them on a website

Anon at 15:22:35 Wednesday April 25 2001
How can anyone take seriously a website that refers to the players in "maroon and white"?????????????

KC at 15:18:22 Wednesday April 25 2001
Cheers anon! its not a bad attempt! beats my attempt anyway! i hope he keeps it up to date!

Anon at 15:10:9 Wednesday April 25 2001
KC Sorry there should be a . between 1 and net

KC at 14:54:57 Wednesday April 25 2001
Cheers Anon - having typed in that address i get the msg - Website cannot be found. It may just be my pants computer though!

Anon at 14:48:27 Wednesday April 25 2001
KC www.whataloadofoldcobblers.com-1net

KC at 14:41:58 Wednesday April 25 2001
How do i get to that new site? Im getting a bit distressed with summer coming! im gonna miss watching the Cobblers! no football in the summer! wot am i going to do?

Anon at 14:25:47 Wednesday April 25 2001
PATTCOBB With reference to your criticism of the "what a load of old cobblers" website, the said site has been set up by my thirteen year old brother. Sorry it does not meet with your so obviously high standards. I bet you have never made a mistake in your life. However, the person who hasn't made a mistake hasn't done anything. (Ask Martin W if it is wise to slag off me or my family) If you would like to discuss this further, I will be only too glad to after the Port Vale game.

KC at 14:7:53 Wednesday April 25 2001
Harry c jnr - dont u want a win tmrw then?

KC at 14:6:34 Wednesday April 25 2001
OI READ THIS - I forbid you to ever leave that job as u could quite possibly disclose some useful info to us!

harry c jnr at 14:4:37 Wednesday April 25 2001
what must stevie howard be thinking now! oh well, we weren't gonna get the extra 25k anyway. up the cobblers and a win on sat.

Vince at 14:1:49 Wednesday April 25 2001
I notice that the quid a kid scheme for thursdays game against Port Vale only applies to home areas of Sixfields. Bit of a shame for any Port Vale fans who are bringing kids as they only charged a quid for under 16's when we played there earlier in the season.

OI!!! READ THIS!!! at 13:58:10 Wednesday April 25 2001
KC... I heard it from my boss, who happens to be quite good 'mates' with one of the top directors. I get quite alot of info from him actually...infact its the only reason i stay working here!!!! LOL!

MartinW at 13:56:41 Wednesday April 25 2001
Just because Martin Aldridge came through our youth system what seems like eons ago, doesn't mean we have one. Looks like we will be playing a reserve team against Port Vale and it will be interesting to see how the untried youngsters do against them. Let's hope they kick some ass. UP THE COBBLERS!!!

KC at 13:51:41 Wednesday April 25 2001
I couldnt even get to that new website! the address took me to some Free Domain thingy!

Anon at 13:41:26 Wednesday April 25 2001
PATTCOBB Watch your mouth. Have some respect. How do you know the website has not been set up by a youngster?

KC at 13:30:39 Wednesday April 25 2001
Any fish in that pond Ray?

Ray at 13:29:11 Wednesday April 25 2001
My pond is waterlogged...

KC at 13:16:46 Wednesday April 25 2001
i cannot see the game going ahead either, i mean i hope it does, but there has meen so much rain! even my garden is waterlogged!

PATTCOBB at 13:10:2 Wednesday April 25 2001
I've always been a worrier and I can't see much hope of the game going ahead on Thursday, its peeing down in towcester at the moment and has been on and off all day but not just rain torrential downpours.It will be interesting to see what the league do with Port vales fixtures- a game every day could be on the cards!Congratulations to Yeovil if the Direones finally get promotion (The jacksy b*stards will have far more "local derbies" in the 3rd than our last season there!) they will be pushed all the way to the wire by the gallant men in green.

KC at 13:7:28 Wednesday April 25 2001
Just read the latest news - i see more youngsters to be given a chance! I used to play footie with Champelovier and he is good, very good! Creative/attacking midfielder, just wot we need really!

KC at 12:45:19 Wednesday April 25 2001
I just fecked up my interview big time! Oi READ THIS - Where have u got that info from?

Oh Dear Steve at 12:41:42 Wednesday April 25 2001
Made the right choice joining the Schluton did you Steve?? Keep your �25,000, we're better off you being relegated.

So....? at 12:39:58 Wednesday April 25 2001
I heard we are in line for acquiring two more talented youth teamers from a division one side, John Hodge is leaving, Dave Savage too.

Mal at 11:33:20 Wednesday April 25 2001
The only thing that pisses me off about Luton getting relegated is the extra �25,000 we've lost on Howard. I'm glad they were relegated I work with a couple who still think they're a big club. They all thought that Howard was going to be the John Hartson of the 2nd Div. Good return on investment one penalty since he's been there, and that was only because they didn't know he wasn't allowed to take them at Cobblers. Lucky it wasn't the usual rocket into the roof of the stand.

NTFC@2view at 10:34:32 Wednesday April 25 2001
Gas, take a look at CobblersCam to see the pitch. Good luck, by the way. We always get points off you and a laugh as well, so please stay up!

OI!!!! READ THIS!!!! at 10:25:29 Wednesday April 25 2001
I have it on very good authourity that the Italian consortium WILL be new investors in NTFC starting next season where they will also be showcasing a lot of young Italian talent within our team next season. Barry Stonhill will confirm all this @ The Trust meeting on May 10th.... But you heard it here first, folks!!!!

krs-1 at 10:19:13 Wednesday April 25 2001
Lets all laugh at Howard, lets all laugh at Howard, ha ha ha ha....

Anon at 9:29:29 Wednesday April 25 2001
Another rip off - when are people going to do something original?

Anon at 8:55:4 Wednesday April 25 2001
Just logged on to a new Cobblers website. It is worth having a look at. The address is: http://www.whataloadofoldcobblers.com-1.net/

Paul S at 8:32:32 Wednesday April 25 2001
Heh Gas, was Garry Thompson doing his rain dance. It would suit you well to play PV later than sooner as they will have probably picked up enough points to be clear of relegation worries and be rather tired from so many matches in so many days.

Northampton Gas at 7:37:44 Wednesday April 25 2001
Whats the state of the pitch at 6fields, is tomorrows match likely to be postponed? You will have seen that The Gas 's match was called off due to a storm over The Mem, yes it was that localised. Now Port Vale play next Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday AND against us on either Monday, Wednesday or Friday. Now if your match is postponed, they will have to play FIVE games on consecutive nights as the FA are adement about next Saturday's deadline.

Great Weekend at 7:7:24 Wednesday April 25 2001
Bournemouth and BoscombeBournemouth and BoscombeBournemouth and BoscombeBournemouth and BoscombeBournemouth and BoscombeBournemouth and BoscombeBournemouth and BoscombeBournemouth and BoscombeBournemouth and BoscombeBournemouth and BoscombeBournemouth and BoscombeBournemouth and BoscombeBournemouth and BoscombeBournemouth and BoscombeBournemouth and BoscombeBournemouth and Boscombe (controlV)

Jamie Cureton at 1:59:24 Wednesday April 25 2001
Bad news. my friend at the marriot hotel(where the cobblers stay) told me that Savage is off to Reading. The deal is done, damn! Also the club hav gotta cut back there playing staff. Either Jamie Forrester and/or John Hodge hav gotta go. not being horrible 2 jamie but his heart hasnt been in it the last few games. no disrespect to him. he told me in legends on saturday nite that he fears the worse

Ray at 1:18:12 Wednesday April 25 2001
Yes but think of the big sides dropping down to make up for it!

Pug at 0:20:49 Wednesday April 25 2001
Its funny you know that 3 of our local derbies could be lost to the lower realms next season only the pooh left !!

g at 23:47:56 Tuesday April 24 2001
Being a busy bee I have just caught up with some of the comments of Saturday and cannot agree with Richard re. Marco. I thought again he gave his all. He consistently headed balls on accurately (he's not as tall as Stevie H.)and also played the ball intelligently (yes - this is football!). He's MAGIC. Sammo had a good game. Whitley, Sollitt and the new lads all played well and Savage - well he was definitely no cabbage. It was great to see Howey and Roy back in action. Re: this evening - if Posh can beat Walsall so can we. Shame Port Vale had a rest tonight v Bristol Rovers, but given our determination and latest form, I back the Cobblers for the rest of the season. All they have to do is pressure the other side from the start and not let the other side pressurise them. They must pounce on every spare ball, attack everything and shoot at every opportunity. (Diagonal passes from midfield are a great idea as well.) The Cobblers are a brilliant side when motivated - I'll make a bargain with the team - I'll shout, you win - OK? Up the Cobblers!

Ray at 23:44:51 Tuesday April 24 2001
Luton lose and are relegated - hope Stevie Howard is happy!

TRB Mark at 22:56:0 Tuesday April 24 2001
Liverpool could adapt the Hoolie, Hoolie, Hooligan chant to Houlie, Houlie, Houlier, although I suspect the Scouse wags have already thought of it.

could be a rumour........ at 22:39:12 Tuesday April 24 2001
heard the gym keeps KW very busy, and 'you know what' I reckon a few months and the sprog'll start to show

We are all involved at 21:58:27 Tuesday April 24 2001
on my mind, has it not occurred to you that the ambition of the club might be improved by the number of early takers for the season tickets?

Youknowhat..... at 21:40:24 Tuesday April 24 2001
We sat on a table near to KW last week while out for a meal, was that really his wife? nahhhhhhh must have been his childminder? mind you no sprogs in sight.

Off your head at 21:9:59 Tuesday April 24 2001
On My Mind, What about the supporters of teams Chesterfield beat? They were honest with their accounts and therefore couldn't afford to buy extra players etc etc. Do you also feel the same sympathy for the fans of Mike Tyson, who were robbed of cheering on a World Champion cos he couldn't stop biting ears?

Giles Lawrence (Shiteboro' COBBLER) at 21:4:6 Tuesday April 24 2001
QUADROUPLE DAMN....... P**h 2-0 Walsall (Simon Rea)

Giles Lawrence (Shiteboro' COBBLER) at 20:49:5 Tuesday April 24 2001
Port Vale's game tonight against Bristol Rovers was called off for..................... Yep, WATERLOGGED PITCH.

Giles Lawrence (Shiteboro' COBBLER) at 20:45:25 Tuesday April 24 2001
Leigh RMI 1-0 Yeovil , Direone's 0-0 Telford At Half-time

Giles Lawrence (Shiteboro' COBBLER) at 20:33:36 Tuesday April 24 2001
DAMN DAMN! P**h 1 - 0 Walsall (Jason Lee)

ANON at 19:47:6 Tuesday April 24 2001
HARTWELL from what i can gather there is quite a lot to be expectant about concerning the consortium. Talks are still on going and although it is only a rumour i am led to believe that the more season tickets that can be sold will be of benefit to the current board by the deadline day for price freezing if you get my drift. Anyway that is just a rumour, but lets keep our fingers crossed that the future for the football team situated in the largest town in England is as bright as has been suggested by a relative of mr Norman Howells.

Paul S at 19:32:59 Tuesday April 24 2001
krs-1 ... Actually I think Bournemouth have got a reasonable chance - They need to win their matches to get in the playoffs, but lets face it Wigan, Walsall and Stoke aren't exactly setting the world on fire. We've seen it so often before that clubs who have made the playoffs with a couple of matches to spare take their foot off the gas and can't pick up the pace again in the playoffs and out they go. for the remaining 2 I'd fancy their chances against Reading more than Rotherham. Still a good performance on Saturday from the Cobblers and that'll be the end of that.........BTW anyone got a spare ticket for Saturday? If so email me, cheers

On my mind at 19:26:9 Tuesday April 24 2001
The Chesterfield situation is now degenerating into a farce - because they accept their punishment it now appears that some faceless jobsworths are thinking of increasing the sentence. Whilst the suits at Chesterfiled may be culpable, the supporters should not be put in the position of not knowing whether they will gain promotion or not - particularly after they have already achieved & celebrated it in spite of the fine imposed. Also, what is the chance of the Cobblers making some sort of indication as to their summer transfer ambitions prior to the end of May? If you hang on until June/July you would only pay an additional 15 quid and know whether your cash is buying new talent or paying off old talentless debts like Wilkinson / Atkins etc. Come on Barry Stonhill - give us some information.

blimey at 19:19:51 Tuesday April 24 2001
i see what you mean about the water on the pitch

Anon at 19:17:37 Tuesday April 24 2001
who gives a sh*t about port bloody vale, they are only paying the price of so called success

Freedom of speech at 18:41:3 Tuesday April 24 2001
It's nice to see that you are happy to let someone else express their opinion Graham!

Hartwell at 16:39:12 Tuesday April 24 2001
Those of you who've looked on the official club site today will have seen a notice that Barry Stonhill will be the guest of honour at the Trust's next Open Forum on 10 May. He will be available to anwer questions for up to two hours and obviously expects many of them to be about the consortium. Other than that KC I've heard no more news about the negotiations. However the AGM is on Thursday afternoon and I would expect the meeting to be given an update on the situation. One thing's for sure - while they are still talking there is hope and some grounds for optimism.

krs-1 at 16:36:13 Tuesday April 24 2001
As if Bournemouth will ever get promoted.

KC at 16:30:42 Tuesday April 24 2001
Bob - i saw that bout Canvey Island in the paper, if they win them all they get promoted to the conference dont they?

Anon at 16:26:47 Tuesday April 24 2001
krs-1, usually around 10.30. The younger sides play there on the other pitches. And the stand has gone, good thing too coz I don't have to leave the house to watch now! It was funnier when Thommo used to join in as he played against the kids exactly the same as he would a 6'4" div3 centre half. Priceless.

Bob at 16:26:20 Tuesday April 24 2001
Anon - Canvey Island beat that, they're playing tonight, tomorrow, thursday, friday, saturday and I think again on Monday, all away!!!!

KC at 16:8:2 Tuesday April 24 2001
And to think Liverpool complain about fixture congestion!

KC at 16:7:1 Tuesday April 24 2001
Cheers Billy - definatley come on Telford and Yeovil!!

Anon at 16:1:41 Tuesday April 24 2001
Vale are playing tonight, thursday (weather permitting), then on 28th, 30th, 3rd and 5th - 6 games in twelve days!

9224 at 15:55:27 Tuesday April 24 2001
vale are playing bristol rovers tonight

billy at 15:50:8 Tuesday April 24 2001
Havent Vale got 5 or 6 games to fit in between now and then end of the season? - if we dont play on thursday then when else could it be?

Paul S at 15:49:36 Tuesday April 24 2001
krs-1 Reckon Defoe is worth more than 3mill - no I was talking about the TV money in div 1 next year.

Anon at 15:45:31 Tuesday April 24 2001
Pitch looks very much like a boating lake at the mo

Anon at 15:44:20 Tuesday April 24 2001
Whats the chance of Thursdays game being called off if this bloody rain continues?

krs-1 at 15:40:20 Tuesday April 24 2001
Ash, these youth games at Timken ... what time do they kick-off? I assume they've demolished that 1960s-style wooden stand too?

Dyl at 15:40:2 Tuesday April 24 2001
Yeah come on Telford and Yeovil. Up the Cobbers, down with the Direones

billy at 15:38:54 Tuesday April 24 2001
Direones v Telford tonight kc

krs-1 at 15:38:35 Tuesday April 24 2001
Hows that then Paul S? Defoe is owned by West Ham!

Anon at 15:37:16 Tuesday April 24 2001
Here Here Billy! And come on Yeovil as well as Telford!

KC at 15:36:55 Tuesday April 24 2001
Billy - why come on Telford?

KC at 15:35:44 Tuesday April 24 2001
It would be nice to see Hull get promoted from division 3! Is there anymore news on this consortium? Or do we just presume they are continuing talks? Before the Cambridge game i did see a little bald man at the top of the steps, speaking a foreign language on his mobile. Apparently at the club we have about 3 top class youngsters who are expected to go right to the top.

billy at 15:34:29 Tuesday April 24 2001
The youth set up isnt a waste of money at all. I've no idea how much it costs to run but for the sake of argument lets take LC's figure of 100k. The choice is we can spend that on developing players like Hughes, Lowe, Gould etc and hopefully turn out several first team players who we could then sell on for a few quid OR we could spend it on one or two journeyman third division strikers like Lightbourne or Wilkinson, with no guarantee that they will be a success. If the youth set up is run properly then it will pay dividends, assuming that the talent is there to be found in the first place. Oh and come on Telford!

ash at 15:33:28 Tuesday April 24 2001
I get to see the u-18's? every sat. at Timken & to be honest there are very few who catch the eye. Mind you the same can be said for much of the opposition. I think that the top clubs spread their nets so widely now clubs like us are really going to struggle to produce special talents. The really promising lads are tapped up so early we are left to pick through the rest & pray for some late developers.

Ash at 15:27:54 Tuesday April 24 2001
I went to Liverpool v Barcelona last Thursday and they were chanting 'Who let the reds out? Hou....Houllier'. Not particularly funny, but damn impressive when 40000 people sing it.

Paul S at 15:27:10 Tuesday April 24 2001
Well krs-1 it might well be Bournemouth dreading next season in Division 1 with another 3million in the bank.

Luton Cobb at 15:23:29 Tuesday April 24 2001
Anon - very true. I forgot about Martin. Graham - My point regarding the money being wasted is that if you look at other clubs ie Boro and Luton, they have received substantial returns in transfer fees for players they have developed. We have received nothing. I would love to see our team filled with home grown talent that we could sell on, but this was another legacy of the Atkins era.

krs-1 at 15:15:53 Tuesday April 24 2001
I don't think Colchester were any worse than Swindon, Luton, Oxford, or Bournemouth (a one-man team in the classic mould who must be dreading next season).

Anon at 14:35:19 Tuesday April 24 2001
Martin Aldridge came through the youth system.

Sibs at 14:8:26 Tuesday April 24 2001
Well after expressing doubts about youngsters playing in the last match, i can happily say i was proved wrong. As i've said before being up here in Bradford i don't get to see the matches and rely on this website for news and views - things to me seem more promising now. I was wondering though.... with the possible changes to the squad for next season and it's allready small size - are you expecting to see Kev retain himself as No.22 Player/Manager or retire to just be Manager?? If Lowe was good enough to have a crack on sat would it be better to have him on the bench for example?? [Does a player manager get more wages than a 'normal' manager?? anyone know??]

Graham at 13:58:9 Tuesday April 24 2001
That also applies to Anon too! The number is likely to be far higher than �100k but how you can say it is wasted beggars belief!

Graham at 13:56:36 Tuesday April 24 2001
That is so typical of the whingey, whiny, bloody-minded, small-minded, narrow-minded, half-witted, tight fisted, nonse that too often frequent this board and the stands on a Saturday. I suppose you are now whingeing to your lad and he feels massively guilty because he is costing you so much money. Why does the club bother? I am a season ticket holder and pay for my THREE children and I applaud the stance of a quid a ticket and long may the club try to be as innovative as possible to attract new supporters through the gate. Hopefully at the expense the likes of 'season ticket holder'. Sorry didn't catch your name!

Anon at 13:56:29 Tuesday April 24 2001
If we invest a hundred thousand then its money down the drain

Raining at 13:49:26 Tuesday April 24 2001
If this carries on there will be no game on Thursday.

Luton Cobbler at 13:46:59 Tuesday April 24 2001
It's a frightening thought that Daniel Lowe is the first Youth team player to play since 1993 and other than Mickey Bell I'm struggling to think of any others that have come through in the last twenty years. Given that track record, is the investment in the youth set up worth while? How long does a club continue to invest I would guess in excess of �100k pa into something that has yet to provide a return? Not necessarily my personal view, before FAO slaughters me again, but what do people think?

Paul S at 12:23:29 Tuesday April 24 2001
Season Ticket Whinger - I expect you were complaining earlier that the club wasn't doing anything to market itself to the young future Cobblers fans in the area

NTFC@2view at 11:51:13 Tuesday April 24 2001
Nice to see a positive board. Lots of pluses from the game, but don't let's get carried away - ColU were easily the worst team we've seen up here this season. I wish we could be 'outplayed' like that every week!

Anon at 11:48:31 Tuesday April 24 2001
Turn your head to the left.....now cough.

Season Ticket Holder at 11:44:47 Tuesday April 24 2001
And they expect me to cough up in May this year!!

Season ticket holder at 11:42:17 Tuesday April 24 2001
I see that I am to be penalised on Thursday for having bought my son's ticket last June!

Gazza Willyshite at 11:30:51 Tuesday April 24 2001
4 Richard....

Richard at 9:36:6 Tuesday April 24 2001
Any news on how many season tickets have been sold, i thought the club we going to update us regularly, come on NTFC.

Funny funny at 9:15:3 Tuesday April 24 2001
Nope. We couldn't afford him anyway. The money he's on he thinks he's in the Rolling Stones.

cool due at 9:1:59 Tuesday April 24 2001
you are the best football team in the Northants.

Paul S at 8:59:16 Tuesday April 24 2001
So Funny funny would you have him back?

krs-1 at 8:44:37 Tuesday April 24 2001
I was at a Blackburn match ages ago (when they had terracing), and the home fans sang "Burnley Burnley b*****ds, f***ing c**ts and tw*ts". Nice.

Funny funny at 8:43:1 Tuesday April 24 2001
Steve Howard has scored 1 goal in 8 games for Luton. A penalty. He's been registered with the club since March 22nd, which means, assuming he's paid on a Friday, means he's had 5 paydays since he's been there. Thats 15 grand in wages, plus the 50 grand they paid us for him. (plus God knows what kind of signing-on fee etc). 65 grand for one penalty's not bad though is it?

Anon at 1:10:8 Tuesday April 24 2001
KC and Richard - if you read the other comments you're probably in a majority of 2 perhaps 3 if we throw in Vince. a quick summary of views reveal: Dempsey - shaky first 10-15 mins but improved and looked good. Lopes, some think MoTM, most prepared to give him a chance, a couple don't rate. Lowe, promising debut, bit early to judge. Whitley, I think has now made 8 appearances: opinions split, if anything erring on the side of not good enough. For my fivepenneth, I think Whitley is shite but I've only ever played a couple of semi pro games so who am I to say? BTW, Ferguson wants to return to Highfield Road and expressed his frustration at not getting more than a half a game at (Oldham).

Tony at 23:37:18 Monday April 23 2001
I went to Coventry v Blackburn in the premiership a few yrs bk and the Blackburn fans sang simply "DIE, DIE, DIE, DIE, DIE, DIE" which was funny at the time!

KC at 23:32:35 Monday April 23 2001
Anyone know anymore chants? the ones so far are pretty funny!

PLYMOUTH !!!!!!!!! at 23:17:52 Monday April 23 2001
........

DavCobbler at 23:17:9 Monday April 23 2001
Farmer Giles.........another recent top footy chant was when the Pymouth fans sang to the Brighton away support "You dirty NORTHERN B@stards".....I had to chuckle at that one........

KC at 23:14:49 Monday April 23 2001
Just think wot we could do with �19 million

Maggie at 22:15:36 Monday April 23 2001
I try my best to be just like I am, but everybody wants you to be just like them!

KC at 21:42:11 Monday April 23 2001
Cheers TRB much appreciated i will ask my local newsagent tmrw!

Farmer Giles at 21:41:23 Monday April 23 2001
Chant of the moment was sung by West Ham fans at Ipswich in ref to foot an mouth and it wa "Shall we burn you just in case??"

TRB Mark at 21:38:10 Monday April 23 2001
We won on Saturday, we won't get relegated, so KW is very justified in playing the kids and wheter they have a good game or not, it's the experience that counts and they ain't gonna learn if they don't play. .........KC, you can get the Chron in Kettering, just ask your friendly newsagent. There are only two Chrons delivered in Irthlingborough, accoring to my paperboy. Mine and Diremonds! .............Roll on Saturday and a good pee up in B'mouth and if you go and see the tethered balloon in the Winter Gardens, go in the booking office and buy some of my postcards, or at least remark in a very loud voice how talented Cobblers fans are ; )

sm at 21:27:37 Monday April 23 2001
Agree with that view about Lopes. Thought Savage was the obvious candidate for motm, but me and me mates agreed that Dempsey was up there as well, and that Lopes would have been had he still been on the pitch. Although me mate did say they should have given it to Roy Hunter, just because. And I kind of agree.

Tractor Boy at 21:25:18 Monday April 23 2001
In case you were wondering where Jason Dozzell was on Saturday so you could hurl abuse at him, he was at Portman Road receiving a certificate for being voted 28th best ever Ipswich player - he did, of course, win the biggest drug taker prize by some distance. Anyway, I'm off to complete my passport application because we're going on a European tour, a European tour, a European tour...

The Drilling Cobbler at 21:1:47 Monday April 23 2001
Myself and the four lads that I sit with in the North Stand all felt that if Lopes had stayed on he would have won the mom. Its nice to see that the majority of the people who have contributed on this board actually think that he played well. Maybe Luton Cobb was under the impression that Lopes was wearing the number10 shirt and kept falling over all the time! Seriously though, everyone is entitled to their opinion, it would be a bit boring if we all agreed with each other. Like Luton Cobb, I too feels that Gould will be given his chance on Thursday, and I hope he is. And anon, you dont HAVE TO visit this site mate - so why wait until the end of the season? Come on Telford, Dover, Chester AND YEOVIL!

Depression Lifted at 20:53:45 Monday April 23 2001
As the season wore on I got more depressed we just werent trying and to be honest we were lucky to get most of the points that we did. On Saturday depression lifted not because of the win but it was better than watching a play, a great afternoons entertainment the game had everything. Hunter nearly booked on entry, Big Howie up front and players I did not know existed! So you miserable turds up yours!!

Anon at 20:46:12 Monday April 23 2001
I bet he looks again to see if anyone responds to his message

Anon at 20:32:41 Monday April 23 2001
This is the last time I plan to read this guest book, it is so depressing, moan when you win moan when you loose, moan when a player has a bad game, ,moan when the kids are given a chance, moan when players are sold for commercial reasons, moan when you have nothing better to do. Question, who would have settled for mid table with some good results against the better clubs at the start of the season - most of the moaners , oh no they would have moaned about that I supposed. Get a life all of you and support the club and players that you all supposedly support. Thank god it's nearly the cricket season and I do not have to read all this crap.

Vince at 19:31:45 Monday April 23 2001
If anyone who is booked onto the Trust Travel coach for the trip to Bournemouth on saturday (not the coach leaving on friday)hasn't been contacted about the changes please email me asap.

KC at 19:3:42 Monday April 23 2001
No u said "It's oh so quiet"!

Bjork at 18:58:38 Monday April 23 2001
I said that once.

KC at 18:53:8 Monday April 23 2001
its very quiet!

KC at 18:8:5 Monday April 23 2001
Cheers anon!

Anon at 18:6:29 Monday April 23 2001
www.northamptonchronicleecho.co.uk

KC at 17:19:25 Monday April 23 2001
As i am exiled in Kettering i dont get the chronicle so could somebody please tell me their web site?

KC at 17:10:51 Monday April 23 2001
I think most people do realise what Kev is doing and appreciate it!

Phil Baron at 17:10:19 Monday April 23 2001
The young lad near the end had pace.......but he was a double for minime in Austin Powers!!!!

Luton Cobb at 17:8:46 Monday April 23 2001
This is getting boring, but if you read the original posting I was complimentary about Dempsey and Lowe. Both did really well. Having seen Lopes three times he's yet to impress me. If he proves me wrong, good luck to him.

Richard at 17:1:1 Monday April 23 2001
Only 1 perspn apears to be slagging of the kids, the rest seem to be supportive and can see what Kev is trying to do. So long as the crowd don't get on their backs I am sur ethey will prove the minority wrong.

grumpy at 16:30:33 Monday April 23 2001
Can't believe all the moaning not about playing the kids, then when he does why so quick to write 'em off? Grrrrrrrrr.

FAO Luton at 16:24:47 Monday April 23 2001
Not that any of it matters. Its all about encouragement. Okay, so he's no Ryan Giggs but if we write players off after one game they don't stand a chance. For the record, I also think James Gould will play on Thursday, but lets try and look at the positives in things, eh?

FAO Luton at 16:20:51 Monday April 23 2001
Trials Aston Villa 91 (rejected), trials Ipswich Town 91 (accepted), Ipswich youth 91-95, brief trial at Southend United 1995, Newmarket Town 95-98, retired 1998 cruciate ligament left knee. Currently doing UEFA "B" coaching certificate and working part time doing Suffolk Schools "roadshow".

Luton Cobb at 16:15:20 Monday April 23 2001
Richard - I don't think we'll see Lopes as I don't think Wilson is too impressed with him. My feeling is that James Gould will get a run out on the left with Hodge on the right or Spedding will be back and Frain pushed into midfield at his expense

Anon at 16:13:57 Monday April 23 2001
Your are in a minority of one Luton - ever thought you might be wrong?

Luton Cobbler at 16:3:3 Monday April 23 2001
FAO - So who do you play for that gives you the right to say that Lopes had a good game. It cuts both ways.

krs-1 at 15:54:14 Monday April 23 2001
I don't really want any of the playing staff to leave, but can't feel too confident about Hodge, Savage, Morrow, Hughes and Ferguson. They are all decent players and (by all accounts) nice lads, so its a shame, but, as Hyman Roth says: "that is the business we have chosen."

Neil at 15:52:56 Monday April 23 2001
KC - I hope you're right!

KC at 15:51:2 Monday April 23 2001
Methinks not Neil! I fell he will keep on all of the youngsters,

Neil at 15:44:29 Monday April 23 2001
Does the fact that the youngsters are not being played too often mean that Wilson has already decided that he won't be offering them new contracts? Methinks it does!

KC at 15:37:48 Monday April 23 2001
He could use 2 or 3 in a game to give them vital experience, we can't win anything this yr neway so why not give the kids a bit of a run out though! not too many of them though.

Lets get pist tonight... at 15:8:59 Monday April 23 2001
...in the name of England, Jamie and St. George!

FAO Luton at 15:6:9 Monday April 23 2001
The relevance of your footballing ability to the debate in hand is thus; I would never dream of saying "listen to that bloke, his Japanese is crap!" because I can't speak a word of it meself. Understand???

Mark Lawrenson at 15:5:54 Monday April 23 2001
I disagree, Alan...

Alan Hansen at 15:4:53 Monday April 23 2001
You can't win anything with kids.

OnTheLash at 15:4:27 Monday April 23 2001
Get yourself a free mobile phone logo at http://www.OnTheLash.com/phonelogo.cfm

Richard at 14:27:3 Monday April 23 2001
I agree KC perhaps only 2 or 3 in each game though rather a team full of youth players, I think he has gone about it the right way so far, even if the changes we somewhat forced upon him for the last game with so many players out injured

KC at 14:23:30 Monday April 23 2001
I for one would like to see Wilson give a couple more youngsters a chance.

Richard at 14:17:34 Monday April 23 2001
Why do you think he will be dropped? If he is I can only think it will be for Lowe with him giving way to Lopes in the second half, so they both have a chance to impress.........AGAIN!!!

Luton Cobbler at 14:11:43 Monday April 23 2001
Re:FAO. Please explain the relevance of my footballing ability to the debate.I fear you will be the pee'd off one when the team sheet comes out on Thursday

Luton Cobbler at 14:11:40 Monday April 23 2001
Re:FAO. Please explain the relevance of my footballing ability to the debate.I fear you will be the pee'd off one when the team sheet comes out on Thursday

Richard at 13:52:42 Monday April 23 2001
I thought Whitley had quite a good game as well, much better than at right back. Give them all a chance and stop jumping on there backs after only a couple of games.

B STONHILL at 13:44:17 Monday April 23 2001
Here I sit broken hearted , spent a penny and only farted

Vince at 13:40:8 Monday April 23 2001
I thought that Dempsey, Lopez, Whitley and Lowe all had good games and were certainly as good as most of the other players. Lowe looked a very good prospect and his control and pace were great to see after some of the performances that more experienced players have put in over the past couple of weeks.

krs-1 at 13:17:10 Monday April 23 2001
As I've said countless times before, Bill, it beats working.

KC at 13:16:29 Monday April 23 2001
Bill - My excuse is that i'm unemployed! Although many thanks to Nationwide - i have interview with them on wednesday!

Bill at 13:10:11 Monday April 23 2001
It seems a lot of you spend a lot of time on here, and it's a bit worrying...

KC at 13:9:22 Monday April 23 2001
How anyone can have a go at Lopes/Dempsey/Lowe is beyond me. They are all young and still learning the trade, i thought all 3 did excellent and should all turn into good players! Savage seems to be able to turn it on at the end of the season! Still we should definatley keep him. And i think we should try and keep Whitley also! BUT is Gabbi worth keeping considering what we sre paying him?

FAO Luton Cobbler at 13:4:45 Monday April 23 2001
Regarding your comments on Lopes, Mr. Luton, how good are YOU at football? Not very, is my guess. Leave the kid alone. He had a good game and I hope we keep him in the side for as long as possible, if only to piss you off, sir.

SBJ at 13:0:38 Monday April 23 2001
I thought Lopes played well, as did the four people I sit nearest to. Much better than his shaky debut - he's made good progress. The latest on the season ticket sales is that I bought mine on Saturday. In the absence of a Bournemouth ticket I'll be going to QPR vs Stockport on Saturday - have a shout at Ali Gibb, and also cheer on relegation-threatened Stockport because as a London based Cobbler I'd rather have Crystal Palace in the second division than any northern team.

KC at 12:50:47 Monday April 23 2001
Whats the latest season ticket sales?

Ray at 12:43:11 Monday April 23 2001
Not surprised looking at CobberCam - looks a bit marshy.

Ray at 12:41:49 Monday April 23 2001
Interesting the different viewpoints. I thought Lopes looked excellent playing in his more natural role rather than right back. Dempsey looked a bag of nerves early on but soon gained confidence as the match progressed. All in all I thought an excellent performance on saturday - but I do wish Gabby would stop falling over - the referees are wise to that one.

Andy C at 12:41:8 Monday April 23 2001
Hi, wandering Gills fan popping in again. Not surprised to see opinion now divided on Hodge and Green - the former erratic, the latter an excellent player for us but now getting on a bit. Anyway, the reason for my visit was to let you know the reserve game between the Cobblers and Gillingham is off this afternoon, due to a waterlogged pitch at Sixfields.

Dyl at 12:27:7 Monday April 23 2001
I thought Lopes had a good game, particularly when he ran at people. The weak link to me is Whitley who is cursed with the most Godawful distribution skills I've seen since David Rennie. Anyone who was at Rotherham will know what I mean.

Richard at 12:25:15 Monday April 23 2001
Give him a chance, that was his first full game for the club and I thought that his perfomance did him no harm at all, am I the odd one out here?? By the way how many season tickets have now been sold, i would have though lots will be sold this weekend after everyone is paid.

Luton Cobbler at 12:15:2 Monday April 23 2001
Richard - i fear you may have been at a different game. I thought Lopes was pretty awful. In a perverse way that helped, because it was only when he swapped with Hodge that we started to open them up. Dempsey on the other hand was excellent and Lowe showed as much promise as one could expect

Richard at 12:7:51 Monday April 23 2001
What is all this about Lopes having a not so good game? Was everyone else at a different match to me, I though he had a really good game, as did most of the players. That is the first cobblers games I have actually enjoyed being at for what seems like months. I though Dempsey, Lopes and Lowe all looked excellent prospects and we should keep them involved for the rest of the season. Sollitt had another great games but will find it hard to push Welch out of the team, maybe we should consider loaning him to div 3 side next year for a year (a la Alex O'Reilly) to give him league experience because he is a player we need to keep hold of (our first million pound player in the making I think) It was good to see Jamie scorthat should do his confidence no end of good. I have changed my mind on the Savage debate and now think we should keep him (if we can afford it) but Gabbiadini looks out of sorts and Hodge drifts out of the game too much, when they are good they are two of the best players in the league, but we only get that about 25% of the time. Colin Cramb would be a good signing along with Kyle lightborne and these two with Forrester, Savage, Hargreaves and our younger players would give us good options going forward for next season. Although I still say we need a big man up front I don;t think Lee Howey is a good choice, he is a very good defender but no so good up front, a back 3 of Howey, Sammo and Hope whould look very solid in front of Welch for next season, with Dempsey right wing back (he looks good going forward aswell)and Hargreaves Left Wing back. Then in centre midfield Hunter, Hunt and Savage would provid both toughness and flair going forwad to supply forrester and AN Other for next season. Subs and replacements in the shape of Frain, Lopes, Lowe, Spedding, Hughes, Morrow, Thompson, Gould and about 3 news players to challenger the first team would be a team and squad strong enough for another top 10 finish. Well done for Saturdays performance another 3 more like that in our last games and we could get somewhere near the 3,500 season ticket sales we all want.

krs-1 at 12:4:34 Monday April 23 2001
Yeah, great to see Roy again. Couldn't understand people leaving early, though! Do they not know who Roy Hunter is? Also, does anyone still think we'll be facing a relegation struggle next season ???

Dyl at 10:56:27 Monday April 23 2001
It was nice to see Roy Hunter on Saturday. First time I've seen him without a drink in his hand for ages.

krs-1 at 10:37:39 Monday April 23 2001
I've been saying for ages that Savage should stay, but there seem to be conflicting reports emanating (sic?) from the various drunken wags at Sixfields. A bloke from the DB told me he spoke to Sav in Bar Med and he said he was definitely moving, but pointed out that he wanted to stay. When quizzed on the Stoke thing, "yer man" said "thats a new one on me", suggesting that several other moves had already been mooted. However, the drunks behind me in the West reckon that he this week bought a house in Northampton, which suggests that he might be staying in the area. All of which can only mean one thing. He's going to Diamonds.

Gareth at 10:24:9 Monday April 23 2001
Ok the winner of the sweepstake is confirmed as Andrew Carter who accurately prediceted Kevin Wilson's finishing time as 5:07. Congratulations Andrew, I'll be in contact. Once again, thanks to all who played the sweepstake!

The Shropshire Cobbler at 10:22:28 Monday April 23 2001
Couldn't make the game on Saturday, but delighted with the result, and comments about commitment etc. Nice to hear about Roy Hunter & Lee Howey, also the youngsters - I'm sure they will all be making a significant impact before too long. Well done to all, including Marathon Man Kev.

David at 10:10:42 Monday April 23 2001
Are you lot blind!!!!!!!!! Savage was by far our best player yesterday. He may no end of forward runs, busting a gut to get on the end of things which never materialised due to other players ballsing up. He also tracked back and was in general excellent. May all the debates about him end here, we NEED him to stay. Also I agree that Whitley played well, and Lopes not so well.

Gareth at 9:27:3 Monday April 23 2001
Thanks to those who played the sweepstake on Saturday. The winner will pocket �46 and �92 will go to the Meningitis Trust. As soon as I get KW's time confirmed, I will confirm who has won.

krs-1 at 9:19:2 Monday April 23 2001
What a difference a week makes! The new players were like a breath of fresh air. Dempsey, I thought, was superb. Got more confident as the game wore on (and only his 2nd senior game!), and looks to be a blinding acquisition. To those of you angling for a target man, I've got a hunch we'll try and sign Kyle Lightbourne in the summer. I'm not going to pretend to be an Insider/Ear to the Wall/Nosey Parker, I'm just a fan. I wouldn't be too gutted either if we replaced Gabbas with Colin Cramb, who I've been a fan of for years. I don't want Marco to leave though, but everyone seems to think he's going to Ru$$$hden (based in Irthlingborough).

Anon at 8:37:29 Monday April 23 2001
tgeg rges

Stewpot at 2:45:6 Monday April 23 2001
What a sad fact that a fan can get on a pitch argue with a player so much that the player concerned at Everton has said he will quit the game. Sitting close to players wives, kids relatives and families I wish those who wish to abuse there feelings out loud remember we are all someones Son, Daughter, Mother, Father etc and when you shout at a player you insult the rest of there family.

Spooner at 0:15:37 Monday April 23 2001
I played cricket with andy when he was covering the county and he is a top bloke. He even mentioned it in his cricket column when he was bowled out by a woman playing against us. we all know the Chronic daren't slag any team off after the Terry Morris affair and Jeremy Casey is a tool anyway. I must admit I've seen Andy at a few Cobblers games in the past. Wouldn't be surprised if Marco was speaking the truth.

KC at 23:57:18 Sunday April 22 2001
I must retire to my television! so i will catch up with everyone tmrw!

KC at 23:51:6 Sunday April 22 2001
Billy - i would rather that than be fighting relegation!

JJ at 23:39:43 Sunday April 22 2001
I would be more than happy to still be mid table Div 2 this time next season, as long as we've seen some good football and our team have performed well. UTC FTP FTD

billy at 23:25:19 Sunday April 22 2001
Mid table obscurity obviously doesnt leave us with much to talk about.

JJ at 23:21:39 Sunday April 22 2001
What're you two on??

marco at 23:21:4 Sunday April 22 2001
Good to see howey and hunter back yesterday. if we finish in midtable i'll certainly be happy. Heard some interesting stuff about Andy Roberts and the Chron. Apparently andy was stitched up by his boss because the chron thought he was ruffling to many feathers. Now they just print what the Club wants but there'sno point cobblers fans buying the paper if its just an extension of the Club's PR tool. I was told that andy took the chron to court and is now doing work on Sammos testimonial brochure as well as reporting from the club.

Pug at 23:15:57 Sunday April 22 2001
Tomas I have waited your arrival for time that has passed more slowly than the bakerlite rodent itself could gnaw through. Well met Tomas how fairs you ?

Tomas at 23:11:49 Sunday April 22 2001
Though I sit here with a tablet of magical runes and a rodent of bakelite qualities, my friend cometh not.

JJ at 22:51:0 Sunday April 22 2001
Anyone know how Gareth did with his Sweepstake out front on Saturday? He didn't have many on there when I got there, I was really early though. What a cracking match eh? I hope you Frainy doubters out there are eating your words!! It was great to see Woody again and even greater to see Lee Howey and Roy Hunter back on the pitch...What a fantastic afternoon!

KC at 22:47:9 Sunday April 22 2001
Gaz - wot makes u say that about the consortium?

Gaz at 22:41:58 Sunday April 22 2001
You cannot get too excited about the appearance of Howey and Hunter. We have absolutely nothing to play for now, other than league position, and to risk either player because others are underperforming would be mad. We need to look at the kids and prepare for next season. I will again settle for a bit of mid-table obscurity thanks very much. It would appear that the consortium is a dead duck and survival for another season is on the cards.

KC at 22:17:25 Sunday April 22 2001
Perhaps he can start with Gabbi and Jamie then bring Howey on at half time.

KC at 22:16:14 Sunday April 22 2001
Yep agreed he definatley looks at his best in midfield! Would be nice to see how Howey and Jamie do up front nxt wk, but i cannot see KW playing them from the start!

Hotel Ender at 22:3:42 Sunday April 22 2001
I think Whitley looks at his best in midfield, but what do I know, obviously NP2 is the font of all knowledge

KC at 22:0:38 Sunday April 22 2001
I also thought Dempsey looked pretty good, and although he looked absolutely buggered i though Lowe looked a good prospect!

KC at 21:20:7 Sunday April 22 2001
I thought whitley played some good passes! As how anyone can still abuse Ian Atkins after wot he did for this club i do not know, fair enuff things went a bit pear shaped BUT he did amazing things and i for 1 will never forget his era!

Robert at 21:6:22 Sunday April 22 2001
Another ripoff merchant I see - Ray will be down on you like the proverbial ton of bricks.

Jamie Forrester's no#1 fan - PAUL at 20:23:30 Sunday April 22 2001
Hi to all Cobblers fans could u please visit my websites which i hope u will like and please sign the geustbook http://www.northamptontownfc.50megs.com or http://anti-posh.8m.com <<<

Mark Too at 20:3:28 Sunday April 22 2001
Did Kevin run with John Gregory, as he seems to have an identical time?

south beds cob at 20:2:50 Sunday April 22 2001
Kevin Wilson is obviously saving himself for thursday, 5 and a half hours!! Jokes a side a great cause well done Kevin , donation on its way..

Anon at 19:54:43 Sunday April 22 2001
Spud - we've done that one!!

Spud at 19:50:59 Sunday April 22 2001
There was a K Wilson age 40 finished in 5:07:36

Anon at 19:44:51 Sunday April 22 2001
Just got back from the London Marathon, We saw Kevin Wilson outside Westminster at about the 24 mile mark and he was on target for about 5hrs we gave him a big sing song of Kevin Wilsons Barmy Army, which i hope helped him for thoses last couple of miles dissapointed he wasn't wearing his cobblers shirt but the shocking news is that he got beat by a Posh fan who was about 30mins in front (Shame on you kevin). I'd also like to say a big Well Done to fellow Cobblers Fan Tranter who ran a very good 3hrs 35mins

Neil at 19:39:2 Sunday April 22 2001
If the K. Wilson that finished with a time of 5:07:36, which I think it is (40 yrs old, male, etc), then he finished in 19,387th position.

NTFC@2view at 19:37:51 Sunday April 22 2001
Bud. what passing under Ian Atkins?

Ray at 19:31:40 Sunday April 22 2001
A number of K. Wilsons? That has got to be a bit of an understatement! :-) I count six. Which one is him is anyones guess - but I suspect he isn't the one that finished 56th.

Anon at 19:18:36 Sunday April 22 2001
Russell Slade has never played league football. So what are his qualifications?

Anon at 19:18:5 Sunday April 22 2001
Kevin's time I believe was 5:07:36 but its hard to say for certain, since there are a number of K Wilson's on the list.

Bud at 19:16:40 Sunday April 22 2001
We all watch 'a different game' thank goodness! I still rue the passing of Ian Atkins.

NP2 at 19:10:34 Sunday April 22 2001
I agree about Dempsey, but Whitley and Lopes? You lot obviously watched a different game. perhaps you'd like to expound the examples of class Dim Witley demonstrated yesterday because I cannot recall any, he lost every 50-50 header and tackle and is a master of the 5 yard pass backwards. He was also guilty in the last 20 minutes of drifting aimlessly into the middle of the back four on the 6 yard box, marking no-one instead commanding that box around the edge of the penalty area. Lopes looks like a lot of 20 year olds that we seem to pick up, first he's not quick compared to players with other teams and second he's too lightweight. Agree 100% about Cramb, also Micah Hyde can't get a regular place at Watford. Expect the Cobbs to announce debts of �2.63 million.

Harry at 18:49:8 Sunday April 22 2001
The site is excellent. It has loads of great information

bobbybill at 18:9:44 Sunday April 22 2001
wasnt there some sort of football club competition? where every club a couple representatives? is there gonna be the results of that posted, ray?

Bored on a Sunday at 18:2:39 Sunday April 22 2001
Game on at Sixfields! Greens just had a throw-in.

RW at 17:56:59 Sunday April 22 2001
Was Kev running alone or was anyone else from the club running with him?

harry c jnr at 17:56:48 Sunday April 22 2001
re marathon - did anyone see the cobblers supporter about 3/4 m away from the finish line???? then the camera swung to good lod sue barker (brilliant!) couln't see kev though. up the cobblers

south beds cobbler at 17:55:51 Sunday April 22 2001
Its good to see we,ve got the LDV cup holders on thurs, and with kids for a quid sould be a good crowd, lets hope Hunter and Howey get another run out, with lopes and Dempsey again starting. As for new signings for next season, Crewe,s Colin Cramb is up for grabs.

Yorkshire cobbler at 17:51:57 Sunday April 22 2001
I saw Willo on the telly but I'm not sure where he was though. It was when it showed the 2 men singing on a pub.

Ray at 17:46:50 Sunday April 22 2001
No sorry - I'm still waiting for the results like the rest of you.

Yorkshire cobbler at 17:45:2 Sunday April 22 2001
I saw Willo on the telly during the marathon,I'm not sure where he was though.

RW at 17:15:48 Sunday April 22 2001
Not yet Ray, do you know how Kev did ? UTC

Ray at 16:20:4 Sunday April 22 2001
To find the results for the Marathon - go here http://www.london-marathon.co.uk/results/results.asp after 5 o'clock

JJ at 15:13:22 Sunday April 22 2001
How did your collection go yesterday Gareth?

bobbybill at 14:42:42 Sunday April 22 2001
i watched nearly all of it, and didnt see our Kev once....

Spud at 14:35:42 Sunday April 22 2001
Anyone know how Kevin Wilson got on into todays marathon?

NTFC@2view at 14:34:6 Sunday April 22 2001
The ref is the 'card happiest' ref in the league, according to the stats, but I thought he did really well yesterday. Not sure about the 'rub of the green' remark over the penalty - seemed pretty blatant to me. Liked Witton's comment - wish we could be outplayed like that every week! They seem to attract twat managers - the last one blamed a 2-1 defeat by us on 'the wind changing at half-time'

Anon at 14:28:4 Sunday April 22 2001
YEAH WE'RE SAFE!!!!!!!!!!!

Stewpot at 13:59:10 Sunday April 22 2001
Maybe Howey could take the Howard role in the hole behind the forwards if the back 4 or 5 can pick themselves. I do hope Savage stays next season but the fans around me seem to think we wont have the money to keep him which would be a big shame indeed especially as he has just settled in a new area next door to my bank manager.

KC at 13:24:49 Sunday April 22 2001
I was pretty pleased with the result and think if we can keep hold of Whitley he could turn inot a cracking player.

Giles Lawrence (Shiteboro' COBBLER) at 12:28:20 Sunday April 22 2001
Don't forget all of you going on the Bournemouth weekend trip to bring your footy kit and play for the COBBLERS FANS TEAM on the Saturday morning against the Bournemouth Fans Team.....

Giles Lawrence (Shiteboro' COBBLER) at 12:27:35 Sunday April 22 2001
There's a few P****d off people here in the Fens today, after they lost 2-1 to Bournemouth, and we beat Col U 2-0...... Ah the fickle world of football....

Mr Magoo at 12:19:16 Sunday April 22 2001
there was a chant in the north stand?

Chris W at 12:16:23 Sunday April 22 2001
Best moment of the afternoon had to be when we chanted "Cobblers till you die..." and Woody just turned round and gave a brilliantly discreet nod. Fantastic.

Jim Boy at 11:47:20 Sunday April 22 2001
Sorry about the slip on the keyboard, it must have been the shock of three points ?

Jim Boy at 11:45:3 Sunday April 22 2001
Woody left because he was left out by Adkins and sulked ? He wanted to leave as his ego took a knock and then took a cheap shot at the Board when they would not pay him money he was not entitlemrnt to.

TRB Mark at 11:34:28 Sunday April 22 2001
Yep, the atmosphere in the North Stand was the best for ages, a real laugh in the second half thanks to Woody. It was quite touching to see the response he got from the fans but just in case he got too carried away, there was a large measure of pee-taking too, esp about his erm, indescrestions and forced change of hairstyle. We , as fans never had a chance to say goodbye and as Woody left NTFC for reasons other than money, he will always be a Cobblers hero.

Spooner at 11:25:4 Sunday April 22 2001
Graham - I am a Middlesbrough supporter, always have been. I'm from the area and moved here 10 years ago. When you live in the North East you don't have a choice who to support. You support your local team. I tarted to go to the Cobblers with my mate at the start of the winning run last season and have been to the majority of home games and a fair few away games too. Probably call me a supporter more than a fan but I do want to see the Cobblers do well and I support the club by paying my cash. Think its important we all support our local team. hope that clars it up.

Spooner at 11:19:44 Sunday April 22 2001
Romsey, its the town leaue cup finals day i think mate

Maxie at 11:9:35 Sunday April 22 2001
Much better yesterday, even if they took a little while to get going. Up the Cobblers!

Paul at 11:5:50 Sunday April 22 2001
Also, the switch to 4-4-2, moving Whitley into midfield worked wonders. Whitley is no right back, but in Midfield he played well. I actually though Frain did well at left back too, some of his hoof down the left flank balls even came of yesterday!

The Romsey Cobbler at 11:1:38 Sunday April 22 2001
Hey - what's the game going on at Sixfields then?

Paul at 11:1:37 Sunday April 22 2001
The atmosphere in the north stand was pretty good yesterday. Not just in the second half. Sure it wasn't amazing, but it was 10 times better than in recent months.

Chris W at 10:58:43 Sunday April 22 2001
Is it me, or can the lack of atmosphere in the North Stand be due to the loss of Andy Woodman? There was a great second half atmos. yesterday, largely due to who was in goal. Woody - you're a star mate.

Woody at 9:49:10 Sunday April 22 2001
No, sorry to say............she wasn`t worth it at all..........

The Drilling Cobbler at 9:42:59 Sunday April 22 2001
If lopes had stayed on for the full 90minutes I think he would have been voted mom. I thought that he played superbly. Dempsy, apart from the first 20minutes (nerves at first) also looked very accomplished considering that it was only his 2nd football league start. Have to disagree with Mick though - yesterdays performance was not comparable to the Cambridge display. The pride had returned, and with it extra commitment and endeavour. The fact that we won 2-0 probably proves that. You make your own luck in football (apart from Man Utd who get theirs from the ref!), having said that I would suggest Colchester looked very disinterested, unlike Cambridge. Now we are mathematicallty safe, I hope that we give the likes of Gould and Thompson an opportunity. Spooner pointed out that 9224's 'team' would be beaten 5-0 by Vale - so what if they were. The fact is that if one of the youngsters emerged from it it would be far more significant long term than a 1-0 win. I entirely agree with 9224 on this one. It will be nice in a way though to now watch the Cobblers and not have to give any thought on whats happening else where. As long as we stay ahead of Boro!

Hartwell at 9:11:11 Sunday April 22 2001
Billy - thanks for correcting me on Forrester's goal. Couldn't see that from where I was sitting (west stand). Mick - it's a matter of of opinion and conjecture, really, but I did feel we put more into our game yesterday than against Cambidge. I also felt that the youngsters like Dempsey and Lopes (sounds like a firm of solicitors)helped raise team spirit. I wonder who'll go and who'll stay in May ?

The Observer at 8:49:54 Sunday April 22 2001
All I can say Billy is if you are going to compete with Diamonds on marketing then you have got a hell of a long way to go

Paddington at 8:47:50 Sunday April 22 2001
Good result by the lads yesterday. And also good to see Wilson giving youth a chance. On a purely selfish note I see QPR will be joining Div 2 next year which makes for a easy local journey for me over to Shepherd's Bush. Hard to believe that just a few years ago I watched premiership football there. (To say that Brentford fans are jubilant is an understatement). If Crystal Palace join QPR that'll be an additional bonus. How the mighty have fallen! I suppose if there's any lesson here it has to be that effective management of club finances has to be the guiding light for ensuring long-term success.

East Northants Village Boy at 8:37:32 Sunday April 22 2001
I thought at the start of the season you were saying Gabbi was the best thing since sliced bread

Ed Winchester at 6:22:55 Sunday April 22 2001
Hi, I'm Ed Winchester

DARTH at 4:17:30 Sunday April 22 2001
MK7 what the hell do you think iv'e been doing for the last 20 odd years!!!! praying to allah. I dont think so, And now the force will be at one with british politics!!!Whooops gotta go iv'e parked my death star on double yellow lines in the drapery .

Ralph2 at 0:58:4 Sunday April 22 2001
Wheres Andy?

Graham at 0:57:6 Sunday April 22 2001
. . . and I thought you was a Cobblers fan Spooner?

Spooner at 0:34:51 Sunday April 22 2001
9224 - thats a great line up if we want to lose 5-0 to port vale - wake up mate and smell the coffee

9224 at 0:21:45 Sunday April 22 2001
Oooops, forgot to mention how well Dempsey played. He looked dangerous going forward, steady going back (on the deck, the aerial stuff comes with experience) and didn't give the ball away once. My vote for MoM was Hodge. Did his man EVERY time, put telling crosses into the box (Howard/Howey would have got a skinfull today) and laid on the second goal, finding Forrester in space. After him would come Dempsey, and then Hope, who is improving every time I see him. Just a quick thought for Ray Warburton, who cracked a rib today playing for the Direones vs Yeovil. Get well soon Ray. He's still a Cobbler, just like Woody!!!!!!

9224 at 0:16:37 Sunday April 22 2001
I thought the Hodge was superb vs Colchester. I wasn't bothered by their no.4 going forward unchallenged as (a)he was pooh and (b)it left space for the Hodge to exploit. Thought Gabbi played quite well actually, but am getting frustrated with his tendency to throw himself to the floor when he could actually do more damage staying on his feet and playing football!!! Sollitt was outstanding, and he's looking like he's learning from Welch and Spink. A word for Woody, it seemed today like he wished he was still playing for us. Good as he is - I'm more than happy with our goalkeeping situation, but do miss Woody and his quirks. He did make a Welch-esque save from John Frain, stretching his arm out quickly to push over the bar when he had no right to do so. It would have been a different story had it fallen on Frainy's left peg however. I generally agree otherwise with THE ASHFORD COBBLER, but disagree about Whitley - I thought he looked classy out there and could be a valuable addition to the squad. Now we're safe, how about this team next time out??? 532 Sollitt, Dempsey, Sampson, Howey, Hughes, Gould, Savage, Hodge, Champelovier, Morrow, Thompson SUBS. Gabbi, Forrester, Frain, Lopes, Hope. Now Lowe's had a chance I'd like to see some of the other regulars in the ressies given a go.

Mick at 23:47:9 Saturday April 21 2001
It's strange how people seem to take the result and apply critism purely because of it. I don't think there was any less determination by The Cobblers against Cambridge than today. The only difference is that today it worked and we reversed the score. Of course the result is relevant, but it shows you can't apply long term tactics or critisisms on just one game, or even a few games.

Andy at 23:3:15 Saturday April 21 2001
Good point hannah, it seems as if Howard was a decoy for Jamie and Gabbi. It's a bit of a luxury though, as you have to lose a midfiled player.

Stewpot at 23:0:14 Saturday April 21 2001
What a good day good to see Howey and Hunter back and the new kid on the block looked good going forward. Fair play to Woody he took some jolly flack from us but he played along. Was a bit worrying whenever there number 4 kept going forward unchallenged. I noticed leaving Newport Pagnell I followed 4 or 5 cars and we all parked up close to each other and all the cars had 1 occupent in them maybe all those from the MK and surronding areas should get together and share cars or if enough demand get a mini bus as it seems crazy us all wasting fuel and space at the same time and place. Saying that though I got staright out today and was home by 5.30. Did anyone see the security officers acting as stewards my life the 3 I came across had faces on them like smacked babies to be polite!!!!!!! All the players out of the team all looked smatly dressed in there dapper suits especially Kieth Welch although the best dressed person in the ground has to be that thin woman who looks after the ballboys she is always dressed immacuatly but she looks awkward on the pitch in the high heels but very pleasing to the eye!!! and the pitch very impressive unlike so many of todays stadia where the sun doesnt get to parts of the grass. Well done boys and great goal Jamie.

The Ashford Cobbler at 22:42:10 Saturday April 21 2001
That's more like it. Sollit - outstanding, Dempsey- outstanding, Sampson - outstanding, Hope - dependeble (didn't have as much to do as Sampson but never put a foot wrong), Frain - outstanding, Hodge - outstanding, Whitley - please don't sign him KW, Savage outstanding, Lopes - encouraging (particularly on the left), Gabbiadini - shit (couldn't trap a bag of cement. Sell him to R&D and bring in Clare. Typical fickle football behaviour as he has been one of the better performers before today), Forrester - the king is back (needed the goal to bring back his confidence. It grew imeasurably during the game), Lowe - encouraging - 1 mazy run showed he has potential - scampered round like an enthusiastic young puppy, Howey - As predicted on this notice board after Howard left I said we would see Howey up front before the system was out. With Gabbi's performance today probably worth a go with Forrester/Howey start. Hunter - good to see him back and resuming his dialogue withe referees so early. Atmosphere much better today as it will be if the team put in the effort and give us something to cheer. Up the Cobblers !!!!!!!!!

Pug at 22:36:14 Saturday April 21 2001
It's a shame all the fair weather Wembley fans aren't around anymore we could have made a religion called NTFC

Only just heard? at 22:24:32 Saturday April 21 2001
Blimey MK7, that's old news. I'm putting TOG as I'm of that age.

MK7 Cobbler at 22:17:35 Saturday April 21 2001
Everyone has to complete the Census forms next weekend. I was reading in the Sunday papers that there is a campaign going around to get 'JEDI' recognised as an official religion (Jedi Knights from star wars). To do this they need 10,000 people to put JEDI under 'other' religion. Support a good cause. Vote 'JEDI' next weekend!!!!

Spooner at 22:17:12 Saturday April 21 2001
you think thats bad. I paid a fiver to park at Leicester v Boro today and the seats inside were shite. like sardines! the Leicester fans wre quiet today...maybe its a midlands thing though they never slagged their team down even at 3-0 down.

Bert at 22:13:9 Saturday April 21 2001
Same old fickle Cobblers fans I see.

MK7 cobbler at 22:11:55 Saturday April 21 2001
Whats the problem with the Old Orleans? We were refused entry because we had cobblers tops on, unless we were going in for a meal. What is this all about? Am I less likely to cause trouble if I have a hamburger with my pint? I think this is totally out of order. What is going on? This establishment makes money out of football fans when it suits. This looks like another example of the Cobblers neighbours being obtrusive (the cinema parking charges is another).

confused at 22:4:59 Saturday April 21 2001
is this the same message board that was whinging and moaning last week or am I in the wrong place???

Hannah at 21:38:2 Saturday April 21 2001
Much improved game today, and i'd say the club should save their money and keep Howey as our new target man. As Howey came on, Forrester semmed more comfortable, perhaps he misses Howard as a big man to play along side him!!!!!

Andy at 21:11:56 Saturday April 21 2001
Billy, I have to disagree with you. Although I don't care if Yoevil or R+D get into the league - they are both sides representing large villages. NTFC should be way over their heads. And I'd rather watch a champions league game anyday than some third div playoff.

billy at 21:0:36 Saturday April 21 2001
I'm so glad I can keep you amused Allan! - fair point mate, I suppose, I must be jaded by having watched lower division football all my life! I agree it would be a dream to see the cobblers challenging at the top of the first or even gracing the prem. Call me an old cynic if you want but as much as I would like to see that happen, in all honesty I just cant see us doing it with our current setup. What I was trying to say was not connected to any lack of ambition, rather that watching football is so much more exciting and rewarding when the game has more meaning to it. For example I'd rather see a third division play off final than another mundane champions league group match. So if in two years time we complete the double over the Direones by beating them 5-0 at Nene Park and in doing so confirm our promotion to the first and their relegation back to the basement I guess we will both be happy.

Who was that masked man at 20:18:52 Saturday April 21 2001
Who is this Hunter never seen or heard of him, then the Cobblers brought on a Hunter Hologram who nearly got booked within 10 seconds

Allan at 20:12:1 Saturday April 21 2001
I love having you around Billy! For your information I do not want to play Halifax, Rochdale or Direones! I am hoping to play against Sheffield United, Bradford, Birmingham and then eventually Tottenham, Arsenal et.al. WHERE IS YOUR AMBITION?

billy at 19:57:31 Saturday April 21 2001
PS Am I the only one who thinks it is good that R&D will finally make it into the league - football is much better when there is more to play for, ie when we are pushing or promotion / fighting relegation or there is a bit of local pride at stake. I'd much rather be playing Direones in the league than the likes of Halifax and Rochdale. Maybe it will make the club focus a bit more on its marketing if there is more competition from down the road as well.

billy at 19:51:15 Saturday April 21 2001
Hartwell - Jamies goal took a deflection off their defender which deceived Woody - anyway who cares - a dodgy penalty and a deflected goal will do for me. Good to see Dempsey and Lopez get a start and I thought both of them did Ok (especially when Lopez switched to the left and Hodge to the right - this seemed to give Dempsey more confidence). Lowe looked good as well. Great to see Howey and Hunter back. Jamie seemed to perk up a lot when Howey came on up front.

Neil at 19:34:43 Saturday April 21 2001
Good result. Great to see Howey and Hunter back in contention, and Danny Lowe given a run out, and Jamie getting back to doing what he does best.

Hannah at 19:11:38 Saturday April 21 2001
A good day. We looked much better this week. We managed to score a goal at home for the first time in what seemed like an eternity. Ipswich are in Europe (that George Burley is lovely!). And Cardiff up, Swansea down.Don't care myself about Cardiff, but I guess Swansea are none too pleased at their success. I usually try not to gloat when other teams get relegated,knowing only too well how painful it is, but that bloody 'Jack Army' have been consistently annoying, so ha-ha.

alf at 19:8:23 Saturday April 21 2001
was it me or was it something else after the C & E + plus management of NTFC asking us the fans to get behind the cobblers in our tuneful way but it seemed that WOODY yet again got more attention than the cobblers did with comments of his past plus more. It felt like we went back a couple of seasons when we paid to watch football and we got it as well as a good atmosphere , unlike the 2nd half of this season. Good luck to Andy Woodman for his future and come on you COBBLERS you can do better cause we have seen it

HotelEnder at 19:3:43 Saturday April 21 2001
Was this the same team I saw lose to lowly cambridge in a dispirited performance last week. I think not.

Lancaster Cobbler at 18:37:38 Saturday April 21 2001
Looks like from comments that Dempsey and Lopes are promising players, BTW Russell Slade was the youth coach at Shef Utd.

North Stand at 18:35:29 Saturday April 21 2001
Was she worth it in the end?

Hartwell at 17:58:24 Saturday April 21 2001
PS - great to see Woody get such a fine reception. He looked as though he enjoyed the day and good luck to him.

Hartwell at 17:57:29 Saturday April 21 2001
A far beter display today, with Lopes and Whitely looking good. Savage also had an excellent game and Forrester's goal was a real pearl - I think Woody expected it to come across him but instead went to his near post and deceived him. Anyway, great to see Jamie gettting on the score sheet. But perhaps one of the best sights was seeing Hunter and Howey coming on for the final few mins. Both naturally looked rusty but at least they have got back onto the first team pitch after so long and hopefully that will be another step in their recoveries. Poor old Gabbiadini again looked slow, out of sorts and his body language seemed to tell its own story. He was, as usual, caught in possession umpteen times and fiddled around when he ought to have put a shot in on goal in first half when very well placed. Still, overall, at least the players out there looked as though they wanted to play and to compete which in itself was a big improvement on the past few weeks. Wilson has a great deal to think about, though, in the close season.

Ralph2 at 17:1:27 Saturday April 21 2001
Hooray.Now to get above Peterborough.

bobbybill at 16:17:59 Saturday April 21 2001
frain has a shot, saved by woody again

nerd at 15:57:26 Saturday April 21 2001
Ray cobblers in google and i feel lucky no longer goes to this page, are you going to take them off your site now?, p.s. people who want safe standing may remember the view was about as good as cobbler cam 1/3 of the pitch visible and someones head in the way at all the crucial points, or maybe that was just the county ground?

bobbybill at 15:52:40 Saturday April 21 2001
the cobblers playing with confidence. near miss by jamie. they r playing well... according to radioman

Ralph2 at 15:44:56 Saturday April 21 2001
That looks like Roy Hunter warming up.

Ralph2 at 15:42:39 Saturday April 21 2001
Just remembered the Cobblers cam.Is there anybody in the Dave Bowen stand?

Ralph2 at 15:38:40 Saturday April 21 2001
Cheers anon,I should have guessed that Bobbybill.

Sean from London at 15:38:26 Saturday April 21 2001
Goaaaaaaaaal 1-0

bobbybill at 15:37:20 Saturday April 21 2001
they're covering the direones match mostly

Anon at 15:36:35 Saturday April 21 2001
scored!! dave savage puts a penalty past woody

Ralph2 at 15:32:17 Saturday April 21 2001
Anyone out there listening to the game on the radio and could let us know how its going.

Steve Terry at 13:55:48 Saturday April 21 2001
Whoooooooooooooooooooooooooosh!

Ralph at 13:49:49 Saturday April 21 2001
So glad to see a referee have the balls to send Keane off at Old Trafford. It deserved it too, could have ended the City player's career!!

Ralph at 13:47:22 Saturday April 21 2001
Seems like a good game plan, Steve Howard, Marco and Jamie out and John Gayle, Jason White and Chris Lee in!

Ralph at 13:41:57 Saturday April 21 2001
Sorry Romsey I wern't old enough to have seen him!!!!!

Ralph at 13:41:0 Saturday April 21 2001
Alternatively: Morritt; Wayne Williams, Chatterley, Neil Townsend, Neil Rioch; Scope, Peer, Mann, Bunce; Belfon, Sandy; Subs: Book, Elad, Gage, Sandeman, Oman.

The Romsey Cobbler at 13:27:16 Saturday April 21 2001
Sorry Ralph but it's got to be Harvey for Welch

West Stander at 13:26:14 Saturday April 21 2001
Sad isn't it that people think Gabbiadini's good because he can deliver a few flick-ons and plays a few neat passes. Just shows how our judgements have become clouded and devalued due to years of watching sub-standard players and game plans. I would remind everyone that he was brought here to score goals and hasn't done so. OK, some of the blame may well lie with the midfield. But he just has not delivered. I had heard two months ago from a very good source that he will not be here next season and I do not expect much has changed. Forrester going as well? Maybe.

Graham at 13:25:30 Saturday April 21 2001
That's rich coming from you Spooner! If my dog had a face like yours . . . I'd shave its arse and make it walk backwards!!!!

Ralph at 13:23:35 Saturday April 21 2001
Today's Team (4-4-2) - Welch; Neal, Warburton, Wilcox, Thomas; Buchanan, Gregory, Hill, Kiernan; Morley, Forrester. Subs: McGoldrick, McNeil, Rankmore, Starling, Large.

Spooner at 13:13:30 Saturday April 21 2001
Interesting fact: The Cobblers have 2 players that have brothers playing for Man City...interesting that. P.S what an ugly f***er that Luke Chadwick is..is he related to Red Rum?

Gordon at 13:8:29 Saturday April 21 2001
A tie injury eh? It seems Jason has smartened up his act since he was here last!

Helen Chamberlain at 12:58:27 Saturday April 21 2001
what has Woody done to you, he was the reason you got promoted in the first place you ungrateful turds!

Paul at 12:40:57 Saturday April 21 2001
Looks like Jason Dozzell won't be playing today, he is out for the rest of the season with a Tie injury! So I guess it's just Woody that we get to shout "Cobblers Reject" at!!

You ent seen me, right? at 10:23:17 Saturday April 21 2001
You ent seen me, right?

Phil Baron at 9:4:5 Saturday April 21 2001
I dont think slagging the players off on here des much for confidence do you? I would like to think a bit of support would be appreciated.Frainy has not had a good season and he would be the first to admit it but Hope has proved to be a star for the future in an otherwise uneventful season. A win today would end any fears of relegation,Then perhaps think about next season with more of a positive approach? Anyway today is about giving Woody stick!!!!!

PATCOBB-tea break over!!! at 8:46:49 Saturday April 21 2001
Oh yeah and I think yo will all join me in saying COME ON YEOVIL!!!!!

PATTCOBB at 8:35:9 Saturday April 21 2001
MORNING ALL.............Welcome to "LETS TRY NOT TO GET ON THE PLAYERS BACKS AND IF WE HAVE ANY ABUSE TO SHOUT , LETS HURL AT IT EX PRETTY BOY COULDN'T CONTROL HIS CARNAL URGES GOALKEEPER WOODMAN DAY

Anon at 2:38:17 Saturday April 21 2001
yawn I'm tired

Graham at 0:46:47 Saturday April 21 2001
Lee Howey up front tomorrow.

clarrit-an-woit at 0:32:4 Saturday April 21 2001
The debate goes on. To Frain or not to Frain. JF will always have a place in the hearts of true Cobblers fans for the play-off final goal. The tingling feeling of excitement that day at Wembley singing We're simply the best is a memory which doesn't fade. Sorry, though. JF has had a tough old time while those around him haven't played as well as they once did, and the old legs leave him that half yard short of pace. KW says he is a model pro, and who are we to doubt him? But his performances on the pitch haven't been right for a long time. with the general lack of pace in the back 4/5 he gets caught out, and as a midfielder he just isn't mobile enough any more. I don't know what Ron Atkinson means (who the f*** knows what Atkinson is talking about any of the time?) when he talks about a player 'sitting' or playing 'in the hole', but perhaps that's where Frainy should be, if it means just in front of the back 4. His tackling is good enough, but he then needs someone (preferably in the same colour shirt) to give the ball to when he's won it. 'cos if he has to pass it more than 5 yards the opposition are on the attack again. Watch. Enough about JF - well that one anyway. When is any one going to give the other JF a pass he can do something with. It's b****y hopeless tossing the ball up high (over the top of the defence? - joke!) for him. Steve Howard worked hard to win balls for him and gave him a bit of space. It looks as though he's going to learn the hard way that money isn't everything. Going to Luton is like going up the a***hole of England, never mind playing for them. Tomorrow, which is now today, we need to WIN. We all think we can pick a better side than KW, so i won't resist the temptation. Sollitt, Dempsey (he's a right back you know), Sammo, Hope, Spedding (he's the nearest we have to a left back), Hodge (if he can be bothered), Savage (ditto), Whitley (he's a midfielder), Gabbiadini (Yes, in midfield!) Howey (It's a risk, but we need a big bloke up there at least some of the match) and Forrester up front. Bench, whatever's left, Green, Hughes, Morrow, Hunter!? ,Gould (he should get a try, no not like the leather egg boys, he should get part of a game. Too late for any more of this rubbish. Good Luck against ColU lads.

Ash at 23:53:23 Friday April 20 2001
Are all the villagers going on holiday? There seems to be a large number of horse & carts heading towards Somerset.

Anon at 23:39:39 Friday April 20 2001
If you watch Gabbi closely, you will see he does have talent left in him! but some of the other players don't read him. I'm not saying he's the best player but he still has some class left in him. Like the nifty little turns he does, or quick chip-ins.

Nosey Parker at 23:20:33 Friday April 20 2001
I think Gabbiadini is a waste of money and so does most of the squad.Forrester will go for the right amount as the club is potless.....trust me please.

Ralph2 at 22:48:7 Friday April 20 2001
That got them talking ;-)

Hartwell at 19:22:43 Friday April 20 2001
Ummm...some thought-provoking stuff here from Richard, Ralph, and Martin W. I suspect that whoever we have up front - and we've had a fair few in the last few years - the goalscoring record will never improve until the service from midfield becomes far superior. Gabbiadini is having to come far too deep just to get a smell of the ball. Forrester isn't getting any knock-downs of the kind he likes to feed on. And, finally, there's no wing play, except when Hodge is on. Regarding the young players, what Wilson has just said only confirms what many of us already suspect - that the youth system isn't any good (and that can be judged by the average to poor players who have come through, only to fail to impress at league level). Our youth policy was never any good and I can see no evidence that it has improved. If anything it is producing even fewer players. If there are youngsters who have the "right stuff" they would have come through under Wilson, especially bearing in mind our present parlous state regarding squad strength and the obvious lack of commitment being shown by certain senior members of the team. I am sure Wilson will carry out his threat to have a clearout. But, without any real money available, are we likely to get any better players? What we might get, though, are some who are more hungry and show more willingness to roll their sleeves up and give 100%. I guess we might, in the end, be back to some honest journeymen pros rather than better but less motivated individuals. That would be a pity of course because it would mean Wilson's attempts to play more creative, open, football would be jeopardised. In the end, isn't this just history repeating itself here. It's like Groundhog Day.....

mick bee at 17:35:41 Friday April 20 2001
On the 20th May Borough Independent Supporters Club will be holding a charity auction at Nuneaton Borough Football Club for three of our fans that were killed while travelling back from a game at Bournmouth. There are many signed shirts, balls and other memorabilia including a signed Northampton town shirt.from this year which your club kindly sent us. If you would like to bid for any of these items you can send your bid by e � mail or you can attend the auction a photo of this and any other item can be sent to you if required, My e � mail address is mickbee9@aol.com There is no bid on this item at the moment and if you would like to see everything we have with current bids visit www.gillsconnect.com and go to Nuneaton fans

Ralph2 at 17:34:57 Friday April 20 2001
Sorry Richard got to go,the girls are back from nursery,cheers mate.

Richard at 17:26:34 Friday April 20 2001
Yes, I agree there Marco and Jamie together just doesn't seem to work. We have struggled to score for a while now Jamie especially 1 in about 15 or so. We need Savage to make more runs from midfield like in the last few games of last season, and as there is not big man(sorry had to get that one in) we will have to keep playing the ball to feet rather than our two full back hoooofing the ball up the line, what I like to call the Frain ball from a few years back when he player left back.

Ralph2 at 17:17:18 Friday April 20 2001
I thought the Gabbi and Forrester up front with Howard just behind them formation worked well.The two of them alone up front,don't work too well together IMHO.

Richard at 17:10:59 Friday April 20 2001
Yes, maybe Howard didn't score enough, but if he took penalties or free kicks like more strikers he would have scored 5 or 6 more. But how many goals per minute did we score when Howard was on the pitch compared to when he wasn;t. I know I would bet a lot on us scoring mroe when he was on the pitch.

Ralph2 at 17:9:35 Friday April 20 2001
Even when Howard was playing,we didn't score enough goals,I think our problems lie in midfield.And Richard,all those big players you mentioned score goals on a regular basis.If you want to sign a big fellow who scores on a regular basis at this level,then fine.I'm just not sure who he is and more importantly wether we could afford him.I guess there is always the non-league,look at Trundle of Wrexham.

J at 17:8:34 Friday April 20 2001
I've not got many issues with the standard of the players....my problem is with the effort that most of them are putting in....I didn't buy a season ticket to spend the last seven games watching people dolly around making sure they don't get injured before their holidays!!!!!!!!!!

Ralph2 at 17:4:7 Friday April 20 2001
I see what you are saying Romsey Cobbler,I personally would be happier if we signed another striker and improved our midfields quality and creativity ,giving our forwards better supply and more chance of scoring.I had all the time in the world for Stevie Howard but he didn't score enough goals for me.

Richard at 17:4:1 Friday April 20 2001
You have to admit we have not looked half the team we were when Steve Howard has not been playing. It was the same with John Gayle and David Seal, one would flick them on (Gayle/Howard) and the other score(Seal/Forrester). Usually a big striker occupies more than one defender and this leaves spaces in behind. If you look at a lot of the more succesful clubs in any league you can see they have a focal point to their attack. Hasselbaink - Chelsea, Quinn - Sunderland, Vieri - Inter Milan, Heskey - Liverpool, Viduka - Leeds, Shevchenko - Milan, Carew - Valencia, also look at how Coventry have improved since Hartson went there. Also in our league Moody - Millwall and Hawarth - Wigan and before anyone says what about Man Utd the seem to do alright just 4 words....Carsten Janker - Bayern Munich. I really do think any team needs a big man up front as it give you the extra option to use if needed, this is especially needed if the midfield is lacking ideas.

Ralph2 at 16:59:35 Friday April 20 2001
OK Richard,i can see that arguement,but Heskey is probably better known for his strength when running at defences ,he's too strong for defenders.At this level,a big strikers skills tend to be in heading the ball on and not with the ball at his feet.Moody at Millwall stands out as a big man who is good with the ball at his feet ,in this division.

The Romsey Cobbler at 16:44:35 Friday April 20 2001
Steve Howard used to get on the end of a lot of crosses and clearances from defence and knock them down for Jamie. When we clear the ball out of defence now as often as not it comes straight back.

Big Striker at 16:40:20 Friday April 20 2001
Yeah, more creativity is needed from midfield, but physical presence always helps. For example, Liverpool look a better team when Heskey is in their side with either Fowler/Owen than they do when Fowler/Owen play together without Heskey.

Ralph2 at 16:35:28 Friday April 20 2001
Sorry,you are going to have to explain your thinking,why does he have to be a big target man.Whats more,the fact that Stevie Howard had a poor scoring record also goes against your argument.

Big Striker at 16:30:38 Friday April 20 2001
Big striker is required because since Howard left, we've only scored a couple of goals...unless that's some kind of coincidence.

Ralph2 at 16:16:35 Friday April 20 2001
Why a big striker? I would prefer an end to our long ball tacticts.Buy another good striker and buy in more creativity for midfield,it has been sadly missed this season.

Richard at 16:11:47 Friday April 20 2001
Yes but even if we can get 50k in some way for either Hodge or Gabbiadini it is still better than nothing. We must get a big striker in though as you can see what has happened since Howard has left.

krs-1 at 15:58:31 Friday April 20 2001
Hodge and Savage are going to leave for nowt, and the only way we'll get any money for Gabbas is if Ru$$$hden and Diamonte can be conned into opening the golden chequebook again.

Richard at 15:28:1 Friday April 20 2001
Chill out MartinW, it's only a game haha. I still think selling Hodge, Savage and Gabbiadini and getting 6 or so players in with the �400k per year we will save on wages is a good option and with Hunter and Howey coming back we should have a larger stronger squad next year for no extra outlay.

MartinW at 15:16:0 Friday April 20 2001
Sad news that James Hunt is out for the rest of the season along with Chris Hargreaves. Sad because now the options Willo has with the smallest squad in the league are non-existent. Some time ago I mentioned concern over the failure of reserve players pushing for a first team spot. They keep losing. So I was most interested to hear that Willo has just gone on record saying much the same thing. In all honesty you don't have to be a rocket scientist to see it. He said: "After Monday I was determined to throw in some younger players but then I watched our younger players in the reserves on Wednesday and I thought, do they want this enough? They knew the door was open for them but no one really stood out and demanded a first team spot. I believe that anyone being picked should earn the right to wear the shirt, either by performances in the first team, reserves or in training, not just be given it. I also know I�ve got a lot of thinking to do about next season in the summer. As a player, I gave my all for 46 games a season."

MartinW at 15:5:32 Friday April 20 2001
For the record, TRB, I never said that the quality of the players in the squad is an issue when I buy a season ticket. I was examining the motives of getting fans to cough up two weeks early, when the present season is barely over, that's all. I'm sure for some fans (not me) the issue of club ambition IS a factor when considering how far to support their team, whether by buying a season ticket or by paying on the day. And if we lose good players and we end up in a downward spiral on the field, gates are effected, revenue goes down. And well, the Cobblers stalwarts have seen what has happened to the club when we have gone down that road before. Allied to this, if the club's ambition is limited now, you are going to get and are getting very dissatisfied players - people like Jamie Forrester who is on record as saying that he is "disappointed" by Steve Howard leaving. These players were sold the club on ambition. Every one that has come in whether on loan or by purchase has mentioned how impressed they were and that the club had ambition. How do you think they feel now? Well the results are on the pitch. That's why there needs to be a financial injection. Otherwise you can see a day when Rushden will be the number one side in Northamptonshire. Is that what you want? Coz that's what'll 'appen! As a Harry Enfield character once said.

Anon at 14:54:42 Friday April 20 2001
ENVB - watch this space

Mal at 14:51:23 Friday April 20 2001
Well said Deepcut Cobbler (Thurs 21.51.29). I bet you the lot that walked out never go to an away match unless its the Posh where they think they are going to be seen as hard men and cause some trouble. Changing the subject, it looks to me as though Wilson has finally admitted that his youngsters aren't perhaps as good as we were lead to believe. Don't forget that they grew up through the Atkins system and 3rd division football. To make it in the 2nd you have got to work that little bit harder.

Nosey Parker at 14:24:56 Friday April 20 2001
Well next bit of news might be Gabbiadini going to Rushden IF Diamonds go up..........Will save Cobblers �3000+ per week.Remember when you here it from me it comes true 99% of the time!!!!

The Romsey Cobbler at 13:44:35 Friday April 20 2001
I thought Kevin Wilson's comments were very sensible. Why should he blood the youngsters when they don't look as if they want the opportunity. He admits that he's learned a lot from this, his first full season. It's easy to criticise him but in my view he's doing a good job with limited resources.

Neil at 12:35:59 Friday April 20 2001
Bozeat Cobbler - sorry if that sounds like a moan!!

Neil at 12:34:42 Friday April 20 2001
I'm really annoyed. Kev says he's definitely going to give younger players their chance on Saturday. Then he says they didn't do too well in the reserves and he may not play them. Could they really do any worse than the first team?? If they're not given a chance, they're not going to be able to win themselves new contracts. Maybe they are not all good enough to be given new contracts anyway, but i'm sure a couple of them are. So Wilson reckons he's learnt a lot from this season. Well it's about time he started showing it.

Bozeat Cobbler at 11:41:6 Friday April 20 2001
Whats happening with people? STOP MOANING......get behind the team its at times like these that your team needs you!!

Ralph2 at 11:38:43 Friday April 20 2001
I've never been so insulted Ray,am I Nigel.

Niamh Mulready at 11:24:42 Friday April 20 2001
Just wondering if ye have an Irish tour planned for Summer 2001? I met the team last year when they stayed in Maynooth, Co. Kildare. They're a great bunch of lads. We'd love to see them if they came over again!

krs-1 at 9:16:25 Friday April 20 2001
Whats going on with the DB these days anyway? Watching the old "Sixfields" videos from a few years ago, it was full for pretty much every game. Nowadays it's usually half full at best, and everyone seems to be avoiding the "crossbar seats" in row E.

Ray at 9:12:12 Friday April 20 2001
Yes - very funny KRS. Why not go to the Family Enclosure PNE-John? Not only is it for "families" you can also get a deal on tickets - try the "tandem".

krs-1 at 8:42:52 Friday April 20 2001
PNE JON, if you're looking for somewhere particularly quiet, you could always try the back four rows of the Dave Bowen stand, directly behind the goal. As well as being quiet, you'll also have the pick of the seats by about 4.15.

PNE JON at 7:27:37 Friday April 20 2001
Ray, Im coming along to the cobblers on saturday to introduce a wee lad of 7 to a footy match. He is quite hard but i dont think hes up to fighting yet!! Can you suggest a quiet part of the stadium to sit??

ENVB at 1:8:14 Friday April 20 2001
Diamonds sign up Marco for next season Hartwell never in a million years

Andy at 0:57:21 Friday April 20 2001
Deepcut Cobbler, nice try but the first one was better

Deepcut Cobbler at 0:51:22 Friday April 20 2001
Jumpers for Goalposts, young boys in the park, Bovril at halftime, sitting on Dads shoulders, woodbine's in the air, wrapped in mums knitted woollen scarf, opposing fans on the same terrace, man along the front shouting "ECHO", beers after the game, walking from the game to catch the trolley-bus, all in flat caps, applauding the football, barging the goalies, goalies without gloves, substitutes not allowed, shaking hands with the referee, agreeing with the linesman, baseball boots when frosty, socks round the ankles, choose where you stand, charabanc to the aways, shirts without sponsors, no television, no glass ceilings, Its a different game now..... COME ON YOU COBBLERS!!!

Andy at 0:47:19 Friday April 20 2001
Critics of Kev Wilson's tactical ability are unfair. I think he did the best he could with the players available at the Cambridge game. The only fault was I feel he brought on Hodge a bit too early.

Ralph2 at 0:41:49 Friday April 20 2001
You should be in bed,and turn that bloody Eminem off will you.

Andy at 0:37:46 Friday April 20 2001
Why on earth would you think I would have such a stupid name as Nigel, shez?

Bank manager at 0:36:51 Friday April 20 2001
Dear Mr Stonhill, I have a surefire way to save you money. Please sack Mr Slade, Mr Wilkinson and Mr Curtis as they are clearly incompetent. You may also sack Mr Wilson as he has no authority and his workers do as they please. your bank manager P.S you owe us 2 million quid.

Ray at 0:36:6 Friday April 20 2001
Are you Nigel Ralph?

Ralph2 at 0:33:31 Friday April 20 2001
Andy,are you Nigel,or have you ever been Nigel?

Andy at 0:31:27 Friday April 20 2001
And Ray, are you Ron Manager too?

andy at 0:29:37 Friday April 20 2001
Deepcut Cobbler, are you Ron Manager?

Ralph2 at 0:14:10 Friday April 20 2001
Oh well,nobody bit on the abolition of the youth system,I can return my tongue to it's rightful place.Anyway Ray,I can't believe that tea lady gets paid that much,and hasn't she heard of Aldi tea bags?

Deepcut Cobbler at 0:8:34 Friday April 20 2001
I didn't call anyone moaners, just that the comments on here are for a quality of football that should not be expected from a 2nd Div middle of the table team. Without big investment we ARE a yo-yo team. All I am stating is that from a "neutral" point of view the fare served at Sixfields is good for that that should be expected from this level. Again, without that big investment we may have a one off promotion winning season (or even half a season) but our ability to maintain this year on year is asking or expecting the impossible. I am not being negative, just pointing out facts from a view, divorced from the majority who do attend week in week out, of a match that did attract a great deal of performance criticism. If the spectators do want to be better entertained as regards standard of play the Premiership is where you will find that. But even Leicester are having a similar season to our own. To see the top actors you go to a top theatre in London and see Miss Saigon/Phantom of the Opera not the village hall for the local production. I was very well entertained on Friday night for the standard of football I was expecting. Forever NTFC. COME ON YOU COBBLERS!!!

Ray at 0:2:47 Friday April 20 2001
With regard to the three points you make: The money was borrowed from the PFA purely because money that had been promised did not arrive and it was repaid immediately it did, I can't comment on the Nicolson situation because I don;t know the facts. With regard to Stevie Howard I don't think there was any option but allow him to go. It was either get �50K now or �0K in 2 months time. I think the Club did the right thing - much as I hated to see him go. Yes, you are probably right - most of my comments do tend to be "pro-establishment"but most people know that if I think something is wrong I will say so in no uncertain terms. Its all very well calling for new board members but they don't exactly grow on tree you know. People have critised the board for not taking the offer from the consortium that was put to them in March. You will see from TCMP Q&A why this was. The board aren;t going to jump on the first bus that comes along - this is a surefire way to head off in the wrong direction. I do believe that the board has the interests of the Club at heart. They certainly aren't in it for the money! Criticism where criticism is due, but lets not all go off half cocked calling for the board to be replaced, the management to be replaced and, as far as I know, people would be calling for the tea lady to be replaced (assuming they had one). Once again this will probably be touted as a "pro-establishment" posting but sometimes I feel that a counter view is called for rather than "off with their heads".

Andy at 23:56:13 Thursday April 19 2001
Spooner, that's exactly my point. You don't think he has the ability, but who knows?

Spooner at 23:52:41 Thursday April 19 2001
Morrow for �1 mill? don't you need ability to be worth that much

Andy at 23:49:40 Thursday April 19 2001
There's more. Take Morrow as an example. He's our supposed outstanding youth player, and in the next year or so could easily be sold for 1 million plus as he could be released to non league. Who knows?

moaner at 23:47:15 Thursday April 19 2001
DC - first off, how you can say we are all bitching is beyond me....i haven't seen a decent home performance in months....you go once and call us moaners? hmmm....our main problem is simple....centre mid especially when we play 5 at the back. we have no CREATIVE midfielder. Hunt is great at breaking up the play but does he ever pass the ball forward? Savage is better at running from midfield and taking the ball but if Gabbs and Forrester can't get any service what chance has Sav. And as for Frain...he is what he is....a half decent left back looking woefully out of place in centre mid....a 50% fit Roy Hunter would do a better job...I'm not going this week cos I'm sick of paying �15 to watch lazy and woeful 3k a week earning "footballers" RIP Cobblers

Andy at 23:45:32 Thursday April 19 2001
I think the chances of bringing a youth player through and winning big big money is like winning the lottery. Don't forget most 2nd and all 3rd Div sides want the same. How much you gamble into acheiving it is a hard decision. Ralph2 gives good examples but I don't think there's a formula to apply to make it work. Posh have gone for it in a big way, but has it paid off, or will it ever?

Rodney at 23:44:40 Thursday April 19 2001
Is it just me or are Ray's comments nearly always pro the 'establishment'? This club of ours is currently lacking ambition/cash and yet I seem to remember a few months ago you said that the club did not have serious money problems. Borrowing money off the PFA to pay wages strikes me as a very bad sign, the loss of left-back Nico was amateurish and Howard's departure was a joke. New blood in the boardroom is the ONLY way this club will avoid relegation next season. Look at our history, for goodness sake: promotion in the mid 70s: relegation the following year; promotion in the mid 80s, relegation within three years; promotion under Atkins, relegation just two years later. Lack of money blighted us each time.

Deepcut Cobbler at 23:23:44 Thursday April 19 2001
Ray, Good Luck and waiting for the vitriol in response to my assessment. COME ON YOU COBBLERS!!!

Ray at 23:2:54 Thursday April 19 2001
Thanks DC - was nice to meet a new face. Yes - hopefully the Online Tickets should now be working smoothly. Because of the problems with the "management" all requests are now going direct to the Club and they will deal with them. Fingers crossed.

Deepcut Cobbler at 22:51:29 Thursday April 19 2001
It was my first match of the season v Cambridge so apart from being swayed by comments on this board I was almost looking on as a neutral. From what I saw the match was excellent. End to end, fast flowing football with mistakes, defensive errors, chances, saves, shots, good atmosphere (mainly from CUFC but a good representation from the North Stand and our area) and commitment from both teams. We are watching 2nd Div football not the premiership standard you see week in week out on the TV. It is understandable that CUFC were up for it (they are fighting for survival). Stats in the Saturday C&E show shots were an even 15-16. If one of Jamies chances had been converted the outcome would have changed. From my perspective there was nothing wrong with our performance apart from being unable to convert one of our chances. I will be shot down but you are all biased from a first half of the season where all of Jamies chances were going in and Welchie was saving everything. Sollit flapped at a couple but his second half saves were outstanding, Spedds is one paced but solid, Sammo is Mr Reliable, Savage IS an above average 2nd Div midfielder, Gabbi does work his socks off creating, Jim Whitley should be played in midfield, Jamie is short on confidence forever taking the extra touch, Hunt will eventually sell for a lot of money, Frainy, Hope and Greeny are solid. And again shoot me down but I do know what I am talking about from quite a high level. The biggest thing that annoyed about Friday was the mass walkout ten minutes from time. I nearly said disgraceful, but in all my years and however disappointed I have been with a performance I have never walked out on the(our) team. You have been spoilt in the last year with promotion and an excellent and unexpected start to this campaign. Mid table security (or at least survival) was asked for, be satisfied with that and lets see what next season brings. Forever NTFC. COME ON YOU COBBLERS!!! p.s By the way Ray, good to press the flesh and I hope the online ticketing is sorted for the next game.

Ralph2 at 22:27:19 Thursday April 19 2001
(Cue Caroline Aherne accent) Oh come on,lets have a heated debate.If you say it ,it doesn't mean it's going to happen,honestly.

Pug at 22:24:36 Thursday April 19 2001
Hey Tomas sounds like skivers !!

JJ at 21:22:45 Thursday April 19 2001
I agree with Ray...this comments board has become a 'Lets see who we can bitch about next' board!! Hasn't anyone got anything constructive to say about anyone? The most sense I have read here was last night when someone said we Support Northampton Town Football Club! Anyone who puts on a claret shirt deserves our support! and surely Kev and everyone at the top deserve our trust and support....Lets have some faith here....Ok things arn't so hot at the moment but stop speculating and pointing the finger and wait and see what happens. I've been supporting the cobblers since I was 5 and I'm now 36.....we've been up and down and up etc. Thats Football isn't it?

Ralph2 at 21:0:8 Thursday April 19 2001
It's very sad ,the drilling Cobbler.As much as I mull it over,I can't disagree with you about aborting the youth system for now.Logically thinking it does seem a waste of money.Or maybe we do need a new man at the top.What do you think Ray?

The Drilling Cobbler at 20:52:21 Thursday April 19 2001
Hartwell, I take your point about Posh's youth set up, but it costs them around 1.5 million a year to run. On the basis that they sell on players for big bucks, they need to sell at least 3 players (at say 500k p.a.) per season to break even. Which I doubt they have done since it started. Personally, with our financial situation as it is at present, I would feel it to be more prudent to abolish the youth set up altogether because what ever it does cost us, it is a complete waste of money. Money that could be chanelled into the first team. I would suspect that our youth budget is around 250k p.a., which would pay for 2 excellent players or 4 good players a year. I too would love to see a proper academy set up but only if the money is not going to effect the 1st team in the short term. With that in mind, and if reports are to be believed, bring on the consortium! With the Diamonds, Boro and Luton all pumping in millions a year locally on youth investment, its difficult to see how we can attract the better prospects without real hard cash. Hence why we end up with the dregs. And this has happened for the last 20 years at least.

Ralph2 at 20:41:49 Thursday April 19 2001
Ray,it's a little difficult for me to be having a go at any one person,when I am berating what seems a club culture for more than 25 years.We should be following the likes of Charlton who have a succesful youth policy ,in what is basically a community club.It's not the first,and I doubt it will be the last time I complain about it mate.

Ray at 20:26:26 Thursday April 19 2001
Oh come on... how many more people at the Club is this board going to have a go at? Shall I just publish a list and everyone can tick the ones they dont like/think are crap/ etc and we can then get on with things?

Spooner at 20:1:24 Thursday April 19 2001
Hartwell - when you have Paul Curtis in charge of youth footy what do you expect. Diamonds youth set up is 100x (yes 100x) better than the Cobblers and they don'y play home games on public parks.

Anon at 19:57:20 Thursday April 19 2001
Spooner, more like 4000 unless Colchester bring a decent number

Hartwell at 19:54:59 Thursday April 19 2001
Ralph2 - no, and more's the pity! Atkins apparently had scant regard for the "youth policy" and frankly the club doesn't seem to have set its stall out in any convincing kind of way to attreact and nurture youngsters. It might not be very popular, but fact is clubs like Peterborough are light years ahead of us in their commitment to a youth academy - and the results are there for all to see. Posh have sold on some prospects at big money. As you say Ralph 2, who have we brought on and sold for singificant amounts of money in recent years? We have been very shortsighted in this respect, instead allowing the likes of Atkins to spend on a succession of mainly journeymen players, most of whom were patently poor, pas it or who developed serious injury problems very soon after arriving! If some of the money we'd spent from our Wembley trips, for instance, had been funnelled into developing a proper, serious, youth policy we might have already started to reap some of the benefits. As it is you can't see young players or their mums and dads exactly falling over themselves to come here, can you? To its credit one of the stated aims of the consortium - if it manages to secure a deal - is to develop a proper youth academy. I expect the club would plead cost in its defence for not having given this proper investment. But, as I say, had some of the cash we've expended on bringing players here been directed, instead,into the youth setup, it would have been better spent.

Spooner at 19:54:44 Thursday April 19 2001
they'll be lucky to break 5000....my views....next seasons team....Welch, Lavin, hargreaves Hope, Sammo, new C/b, Hunter, Hunt, creative mid, Forrester, Gabbi (though i reckon he and/or Forrester will) lose savage, morrow.....bench..hodge, sollitt, hughes, new striker, Frain (now we're stuck with him. back up in lopes, dempsey, thompson

JDTNTFC at 19:44:18 Thursday April 19 2001
What do you reckon the attendance will be on saturday then? Im going for 4652!UTC!!FTP!!FTD!!!!

spooner at 19:38:23 Thursday April 19 2001
I'm going to Leicester v Boro saturday.....I'm from Boro you see but have been following the Cobblers H&A for 2 years with my mate...not pretty at the mo

KC at 19:34:50 Thursday April 19 2001
evening spooner! how are you then? Saturdays game i really dont want to go! I will be there but i dunt want to be!

Spooner at 19:28:48 Thursday April 19 2001
evening KC

KC at 19:4:33 Thursday April 19 2001
Evening all!

Ralph2 at 16:9:21 Thursday April 19 2001
We have never employed anyone with outstanding coaching skills at the Cobblers.Name me one player since the Phil Neal/John Gregory era that we have brought through the ranks and sold on for a big profit as the finished article.Re-reading this post, it doesn't make a lot of sense,but I hope you get the gist of what I mean.Mediocre-r-us.

Hartwell at 16:2:51 Thursday April 19 2001
Did anyone note the comment from Howey that he was considering taking his coaching badge in the summer? What a sensible chap! I really hope he can make a good comeback and it'll be interesting to see. If his injury doesn't atand up to the rigours of league football then at least he's looking ahead. Come to think of it maybe we could do with some coaching skills here, couldn't we?

krs-1 at 15:20:34 Thursday April 19 2001
He's probably a similar player to Steve. Can't see him being any blummin worse!

Anon at 15:7:8 Thursday April 19 2001
I see Howey is hoping to be back playing in the first team on Saturday-Why don't we play him up front as he scores quite a lot of goals when he was at the back

krs-1 at 15:6:24 Thursday April 19 2001
Apparently, Lee Howey could be on the bench on Saturday. Wouldn't it be good if he came back as strong as he was before - playing alongside Sampse in a back four or Dicky in a back five. (Personally I think Dicky is better than Zimmer at left back, too).

Anon at 14:58:8 Thursday April 19 2001
Ask the Club!!!!!!

Dyl at 14:57:51 Thursday April 19 2001
I think we need approx 5 good new players. We need 2 defenders (minimum) who have decent pace. We need 2 midfielders (although I'd prepared to accept 1 if Hunter is back to his best), and we need another striker. I can't see any less being good enough to keep us up next year.

Anon at 14:54:38 Thursday April 19 2001
Are the forms for paying your season tickets in installments ready for collection at sixfields yet, if not any idea when they will be available.

Richard at 14:50:4 Thursday April 19 2001
You can add Hargreaves to the list of players we should build our squad round, funny how once a player is out injured for a few weeks can easily slip my mind. We need to bring in 1 more striker for next season or give Morrow or Thompson a run int the last 6 games and we may find that we already have one. I have not seen Gould play so I can't comment on him but again the reports sound promising.

Anon at 14:35:40 Thursday April 19 2001
Bet hes found guilty.

marco at 14:20:33 Thursday April 19 2001
lee canoville is on trial at middlesbrough and played for their reserves last night.

Richard at 14:16:3 Thursday April 19 2001
To late John Frain has already signed a two year contract. I don't think he is as bad as everyone is saying but I certainly think he is lucky to get a two year contract, a one year contract is about right. I think Savage will go at the end of the year but if what i hear is true (on the same sort of pay scale as Forrester, Gabbiadini and Hodge, all about 2.5k -3k) then that will be a saving of over 100k next year on his wages. I think we should let hodge and gabbiadini go that will free up (incluing Savage)about 400k in wages alone and I am sure we could get some money for them in transfer fees as well. Then we can bring in some younger players with more to prove and we may get some more committed players to watch week in week out. By the way in no way am I having a go at either of these 3 players, i think they have all done a good job for us, its just I think I would rather use the money saved to rebuild the squad around players like Hunt, Hope, Forrester, Welch, Sollitt, Sammo, Hunter, Howey and Lavin (who sounds impressive from all the reports)

Sane Cobbler at 14:6:20 Thursday April 19 2001
This debate about John Frain is a joke. Anyone who goes to watch the Cobblers reguarly knows deep down that he is well past it. Playing him at left back forget it. Don't even use him there as cover. Centre Midfield is the only place you could try to play him. But even there he's crap. At the beginning of last season he played really well in the middle but since his injuries he just isn't the same. He is too slow, consitantly mis-times tackles and gets pulled out of position most of the time. As much as I hate to say it he's finished. He should be no more than a bench man let alone be Captain. How can you play him before; Savage, Hodge, Hunt, Hunter, Gould, Hargreaves, Ferguson. Surley he shouldn't even get a look in if all those players are fit. I think we should say thanks for every thing you've been great but goodbye.

LOKF�HRER at 13:34:9 Thursday April 19 2001
FC LOKOMOTIVE!!! Many gettings from Leipzig! We will beat you in september aigain!

Terrace Chants at 13:32:59 Thursday April 19 2001
I know we don't sing anymore, but can anybody help. My friend is doing a project on football, the atmosphere, the songs etc. Terrace chants and what they mean especially(ie, what the bloody hell is "too his horse all about"?) could you mail them to me. I'd be grateful for any feedback. Also, if you have any stories from being at games, could you send them too? Cheers

krs-1 at 11:20:45 Thursday April 19 2001
Is that the Pete Norton book with all the old photos in? Thats a good 'un, lots of black and whites, good for framing about the house...

Gareth at 11:11:20 Thursday April 19 2001
Cheers Ray, forgot that.

jeg at 11:2:0 Thursday April 19 2001
krs-1 how about 'it's all cobblers to me?'

krs-1 at 10:49:57 Thursday April 19 2001
Jeg, if you're coming to the game on Saturday, I would advise that you bring something good to read.

Ray at 10:48:22 Thursday April 19 2001
Any queries regarding the posting from Gareth, his email is g.n.kingston@cranfield.ac.uk

Gareth at 10:35:54 Thursday April 19 2001
Please read: As you probably know, Kevin Wilson is running in the London Marathon in aid of Meningitis Research. I have approval from the Club and the Sixfields management to run a sweepstake based upon his finishing time. You pay �2 to buy a time (ie 4 hours and 23 minutes). Whoever guesses the right time wins one third of all stake money. The rest goes to Meningitis Research. I shall be selling entries before and after Saturday's game, but unfortunately only Season Ticket Holders, Trust Members and Sporting Bar Members may participate. This is to avoid having to pay a hefty fee for a licence. Before the game I shall be outside the West Stand if dry, or inside the West Stand concourse if wet. After the game I shall be in the Sporting Bar. I hope that as many of you as possible will support this relatively painless way of raising funds for charity. Cheers!

Interested at 10:35:22 Thursday April 19 2001
Any news on how many season tickets have been sold, at the last count it was 150 but that was about a week ago. I think a fair amount will be sold after everyone is paid at the end of April.

Ray at 10:29:20 Thursday April 19 2001
Yes - probably, but people do change positions thoughout their career. Take Welchy as an example.

Lancaster Cobbler at 10:16:27 Thursday April 19 2001
Jeg - yes Woody does play for Colchester United. Ray, I do not think I made my poitn clearly I was commenting more that the position that Frainy was bought for is not where he is best suited to now.

jeg at 10:7:33 Thursday April 19 2001
hello, is there anybody there? or is there something wrong with my screen? no postings since about midnight last night? has the bomb exploded at Morrisons and killed all Cobblers fans and left me here all alone? Forgive my ignorance but is Woody still playing for Colchester? a friend of mine reckons he was on loan to Southend? Couldn't get to game on friday but definitely going Saturday. West Stand here I come!!! Up the Cobblers.

Ray at 10:0:55 Thursday April 19 2001
Probably - but he isn't played as a wing back any more.

Lancaster Cobbler at 9:38:47 Thursday April 19 2001
Ray - I understand your views but Frain and Welch are two different cases, as a keeper Welchy is in his prime at 32, where as Frain has obviously aged less well then some other players, as remember when he first came he was wing-back, he does not now have the speed really to do that does he?

Ray at 8:54:56 Thursday April 19 2001
John Frain is 32 not 33 - the same age as Welch and Sampson - throwing them on the scrap heap as well?

Anon at 0:24:13 Thursday April 19 2001
hear hear

Jeremy "fat head" Casey at 0:24:9 Thursday April 19 2001
Exclusive!!! UCL "highflyers" Spencer have suceeded in signing Gabbiadini, Forrester and James Hunt in return for a set of shirts and Kingsthorpe Mill. More news as it comes....anyone seen my pies?

HIGH JARSE--------- reporting at 23:53:55 Wednesday April 18 2001
John Frain is a cobbler through and through He has,He is,and He will still give His all for NTFC ,UNLIKE some.

THOUGHT FOR TODAY at 23:47:41 Wednesday April 18 2001
IF we made the play offs and IF marco was to score the winner and if we were still playing at the twin towers ------------ would the head line be ( MARCO THE WEMBELLY WINNER)

JJ at 23:41:45 Wednesday April 18 2001
I'm reading down the page and I'm shocked at the short memories of all the so called Cobblers fans slagging off John Frain! Who scored that last but one goal? Who had possession more times than any other player at Rotherham (Chron and Echo quote)? John Frain has come through for us more times than I can remember!! No one has any right to start critising him or singling him out for abuse! He is not old (33), he is not past it! C'mon John Frain!! UTC FTP FTD! See you lot Saturday.....Oh yeah and while I'm at it I THINK GREENY SHOULD STAY!

LIVERPOOL FAN 2 KC at 23:27:14 Wednesday April 18 2001
It's true what I said, I meant every word and I stand by it every Man U Player should BE SHOT

HUGH JARSE----reporting at 23:23:8 Wednesday April 18 2001
BREAKING NEWS ----------------------------- Hitler has invaded poland. ICELAND has invaded sainsbury's !!!NO----------- hold the press ,ICELAND has been invaded ---------or was it TESCO'S ----------NO, none of them it was either STRANGEWAYS ' GHETTO'S OR ALGIE'S. this has been a genuine news report and no advertising took place.

KC at 23:9:49 Wednesday April 18 2001
Fair enuff they can moan a little tiny bit..BUT one fan said the team should be left in Munich and shot!

H J 2 KC (and the sunshine band) at 23:5:57 Wednesday April 18 2001
they have every right to moan , because for the past ten years there has been �uck all to complain about, look at us we are moaning about losing SH to luton for �3.50 and a bag of crisps plus �25,000.00 if luton win the premiership next year----they have just been knocked out of the cup, which is only something we read or dream about

KC at 22:57:6 Wednesday April 18 2001
Maybe i will ring in and suggest it!

HUGH JARSE-reporting at 22:54:59 Wednesday April 18 2001
BREAKING NEWS---------------- "The greatest comeback since lazarus" Howey & Hunter the dynamic duo have been making strides today - howey twisted his ankle and hunter fell over and were both wheeled back to surgery, a spokesman for the club said "(gabbo) I'm getting too old for this can I become a coach" and another spokesman said "course you can now get out there and START PLAYING"

Ray at 22:53:38 Wednesday April 18 2001
Perhaps they want to swap squads?

KC at 22:47:38 Wednesday April 18 2001
Listening to Radio 5 and all the Man Utd fans complaining! Do they realise how good they have got it??

Anon at 22:37:24 Wednesday April 18 2001
Big Mo - is that just a comment, a fact, or figment of your imagination?

KC at 22:29:54 Wednesday April 18 2001
Life brings about alot of weird things dont it! So Wilson says a mass clearout will happen....who does everyone think?

Little bird at 22:24:4 Wednesday April 18 2001
Yep - he couldn't have been impressed could he!!

KC at 22:21:20 Wednesday April 18 2001
Would have though he was put off then!

Little bird at 22:19:35 Wednesday April 18 2001
Millwall are looking to make another move for Forrester at the end of the season. McGhee was at Sixfields last Friday watching the match against Cambridge.

KC at 22:11:8 Wednesday April 18 2001
Thought Utd never looked like doing it tonite! Still bit dissapointed they went out and the cheek of the Bayern fans to sing "Football's Coming Home"

Knockitlongson! at 21:57:15 Wednesday April 18 2001
Whooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooosh!

TRB Mark at 20:52:54 Wednesday April 18 2001
Wilson only said after the Rotherscum game what the fans have been saying for weeks!

clarrit-an-woit at 20:27:18 Wednesday April 18 2001
I've been thinking of posting for a while, but having just read the last few days entries it's all been said. Relegation Certainties for next season. Wilson needs to look in the mirror - these greedy players will all take the p**s if they don't like the boss. So what is they don't like about KW? He certainly seems determined if you read his excuse line in the Chron. Or is he just stubborn. He thinks he's right, but who else does? Yes, put the kids in on Saturday, within reason. We already know Morrow and Thompson aren't up to it, but give the others a run. Still need a blend of youth and experience though. Oh and one final thought give Frain a rest and see how the midfield functions without him. Better, I suspect.

Big Mo at 19:57:50 Wednesday April 18 2001
jamie forrester doesn't even want to play for the club he doesn't care what happens to us he is crap.

Big Mo at 19:56:6 Wednesday April 18 2001
the players don't earn there money because there lazy and what ever happens at the end of the week they will still get there wages and they have no commitment to the club.

Ray at 19:48:4 Wednesday April 18 2001
The latest edition of TCMPQ&A have now been published. Click the link above.

Ray at 19:25:38 Wednesday April 18 2001
How much in wages would a younger pacier player cost us a year? �25K? �35K �50K... I agree with the sentiment that the squad certainly needs enlarging but 10 at a grand a week is another 1/2 million on the wage bill and I can't see the board agreeing to that.

Jamie Forrester's no#1 fan - PAUL at 19:13:54 Wednesday April 18 2001
Jamie Forrester is god. I think he should get NTFC player of the year and i also hope we can start to win mathces, as we are going down hill. Come on COBBLERS!!!! NTFC and Jamie Forrester RULES

COUNTY COBBLER at 19:6:38 Wednesday April 18 2001
Hunter and yes Ferguson played well in midfield for the reserves this afternoon. With the first team midfield going AWOL in recent weeks may I suggest Savage,Hunter,Ferguson and Gould as the midfield against Colchester.Apart from Welch,Sollitt,Sampson,Hope,Spedding,Hunt,Forrester and Gabbiadini I hope Wilson is brutal with the rest of the squad and signs at least ten more younger, physical and pacey players in the summer!!Without a major injection of Capital and new personel the outlook is guaranteed relegation.

Ray at 19:6:30 Wednesday April 18 2001
Roy Hunter played in the reserves this pm and, although I could only watch the first half, when we conceded two soft goals, he was here, there and everywhere. Don't bet against him making an appearance in the first team before too long.

Moaning??!!?!! at 18:56:20 Wednesday April 18 2001
lets face it we havent done too bad this year, but the really dissapointing thing is the lack of pride and passion the cobblers team have showed in recent weeks. after travelling to games home and away all season, the fans deserve some reward, certain players played for a contract and now have nothing but money on their minds. Wilson is a young manager and will get better with experience, the worrying thing is that like already mentioned, there is no-one there to support him, slade was hardly a success with the reserves let alon the first team. I think the least we desreve is pride, no player is bigger than the club, yet on recent displays (since christmas) it seems no-one cares, and that hurts

Realistic Cobbler at 18:35:44 Wednesday April 18 2001
WHATS GOING ON HERE???????? 1-we cant score. 2- we keep leaking soft goals. 3-we will be relegated next season if we dont get our act together. we MUST buy more decent players in the summer. 4- we MUST let this consortium in or we will be facing financial oblivion AGAIN. 5- although he has done a wonderful job, i believe KW could do with some help (kevan broadhurst or suchlike.) 5- we must see what the kids can do before next season to see whether they are worth holding on to. 6- get all this done and its up the cobblers, ftp, ftd. COME ON COBBLERS!!!

ash at 18:17:22 Wednesday April 18 2001
should read.....Rochdale the least with..........

ash at 18:16:15 Wednesday April 18 2001
Anyone know if or how much the Cobblers have to pay as part of the FL pensions shortfall? The most is Liverpool @ �3mill & Rochdale with a few hundred pounds.

Hartwell at 17:55:35 Wednesday April 18 2001
Mark - I have no insider info on this but I have a hunch that if Direones get promoted Marco might well go there. I say this because they tried to sign him ahead of us last year but he wouldn't go down to Conference level and because he's had a pretty indifferent season here to say the least and appears at times very frustrated with some of those around him. If Direones get into the league Marco might be tempted by (possibly) even better terms than he's getting here and because he might feel he'd get better service up front and in Div 3 where things are that tad slower he might find the net again on a regular basis. All that's just speculation. I know some might doubt that Direones would offer him more money thasn he's getting here and that we pay him a pretty hefty whack. But when you consider the kind of money Howard is reputed to have been offered by Luton, then nothing can be ruled in or out.

Lancaster Cobbler at 17:47:10 Wednesday April 18 2001
To be honest I do not think anyone is throwing Frain on the scrapheap just pointing out his limitations - which result in him being less versitile than when he joined us 4 years ago. you cannot blame peopel questioning giving JF a two year contract when players are still out of contract and if Frainy has a season like he has done this season!

Gareth at 17:38:8 Wednesday April 18 2001
Please read: As you probably know, Kevin Wilson is running in the London Marathon in aid of Meningitis Research. I have approval from the Club and the Sixfields management to run a sweepstake based upon his finishing time. You pay �2 to buy a time (ie 4 hours and 23 minutes). Whoever guesses the right time wins one third of all stake money. The rest goes to Meningitis Research. I shall be selling entries before and after Saturday's game, but unfortunately only Season Ticket Holders, Trust Members and Sporting Bar Members may participate. This is to avoid having to pay a hefty fee for a licence. Before the game I shall be outside the West Stand if dry, or inside the West Stand concourse if wet. After the game I shall be in the Sporting Bar. I hope that as many of you as possible will support this relatively painless way of raising funds for charity. Cheers!

michael,reid at 17:36:32 Wednesday April 18 2001
hey great website man,keep up the good work KEVIN WILSON is great i met him at the ballon festival

Ray at 17:30:9 Wednesday April 18 2001
I'm sorry but I don't understand this enthusiasm everyone appears to have for chucking John Frain on the scrapheap. He is a long way from being the oldest player in the squad - don't be deceived by appearances. Lets hope you boss doesn't decide to make you retire when you lose your hair.

Richard at 17:23:40 Wednesday April 18 2001
Where is Jason White now then, Rotherham still?

krs-1 at 16:48:36 Wednesday April 18 2001
I believe Jason White scored 16 goals in 1995-96 season. Not that he's in the same class as Jim, of course...

Sibs at 16:45:56 Wednesday April 18 2001
Anon - Never said i was letting anyone go!!! The playing of youngsters had been mentioned - i was just suggesting a lineup... but ran out of yougsters to play and hence included Forrester and Savage to make the 11. Maybe the line-up i put up would fight and supply forrester with the service you suggest. Personnaly i don't think more than two 'youngsters' will start the match, with maybe one on the bench.

Anon at 16:25:35 Wednesday April 18 2001
Sibs are you mad how can we let Forrester go he is our record signing and leading scorer and is the first cobblers player to score 15+ goals for god knows how long. All he needs is some good balls fed thru to him and he will score

Cardiff Cobbler at 16:11:46 Wednesday April 18 2001
Whats the score? I've gots loads of people standing around my desk watching the wobblers for the first time (well 1 actually) but it's very hard to tell whats going on! especially on full screen when the picture goes all fuzzy. Not even sure which way we're kicking!!

Sibs at 16:4:11 Wednesday April 18 2001
So playing the youngsters??? Oink Flap. But if some play do you reckon it'll be all of them... or only some?? Hows about - Sollit; Dempsey, Hughes, Fergusson, Hope; Lopes, Gould, Thompson; Morrow. Hmm outa players.... have to include Forrester and Savage.

Big Mo at 15:45:20 Wednesday April 18 2001
buck up your ideas kev

Anon at 15:32:40 Wednesday April 18 2001
Ray Is there anyway of making the cam clearer when you click on full screen

Pug at 15:30:11 Wednesday April 18 2001
Well what can you say? Who would have thought it possible?, will the Cobblers escape relegation as easily ?

Neil at 15:26:16 Wednesday April 18 2001
So will Kev actually play the youngsters on Saturday (they can't do any worse than the so-called 1st team), or will he go back on his word yet again?

Anon at 15:22:2 Wednesday April 18 2001
Doesn't seem to be an awful lot happening on CobblerCam. It's not a first-team game, is it?!?

MARK at 15:0:27 Wednesday April 18 2001
Who will wilson get rid of? The only two i can think of is hodge and savage and he will not keep whitley. Dose anyone else no who will be going at the end of the season.? And who will be comming in.?

MARK at 15:0:26 Wednesday April 18 2001
Who will wilson get rid of? The only two i can think of is hodge and savage and he will not keep whitley. Dose anyone else no who will be going at the end of the season.? And who will be comming in.?

Bexxy at 14:42:11 Wednesday April 18 2001
Anyone watching the 'game' on Cobblercam?? Really interesting trying to work out what is going on y'know!!!

krs-1 at 14:19:28 Wednesday April 18 2001
Brian Laws has always been a bit of a clown, as well. Does anyone else remember when he beat up Ivano Bonetti in the changing rooms at Grimsby?

Anon at 14:12:56 Wednesday April 18 2001
Ray When are we going to have live streaming video on the cam

Richard at 14:4:42 Wednesday April 18 2001
Sorry, KRS-1, you will have to be quicker of the draw next time.

krs-1 at 14:3:4 Wednesday April 18 2001
You blighter! I had that story copied and ready to paste but you beat me to the punch, old man! Bloody funny, all the same...

Poor Ian, nobody likes him haha at 13:49:59 Wednesday April 18 2001
The controversial Scunthorpe manager had little sympathy for Carlisle counterpart Ian Atkins after seeing The Cumbrians reduced to eight men AND have Atkins ordered from the dugout in their clash over Easter. "I almost had in my mind the thought they were deliberately trying to go down to seven men to try and get the game abandoned. But that probably reflects their club, their manager and their chairman � chaotic, hectic and indisciplined."

PATTCOBB at 13:16:33 Wednesday April 18 2001
For the stattos Cobblers second lowest scorers in the league and best win of season only 2-0 this tells a story methinks discuss...........

billy at 13:1:53 Wednesday April 18 2001
Or we could tie a length of bungy rope around your waist and fix the other end in the north stand to help you get into the penalty area a bit quicker

Barry Sheen at 12:59:9 Wednesday April 18 2001
You could borrow my bike if you like John, need to check with the groundsman first though.

John Frain at 12:52:45 Wednesday April 18 2001
Surley I will be Internet Player of the year along with every other award going. You must remember I did score THAT goal at Wembeley. I can live on that for ever more. Even if I'm absolutly crap now. Hey I've just got a new 2 year contract because of that goal. How am I going to run round for 90 minutes next year let alone 2 years time. I can't even do it now days.

billy at 12:48:19 Wednesday April 18 2001
Hopefully this isn't just clutching at straws but the Chronic reports today that 'negotiations with the consortium are continuing ahead of the forthcoming agm' at least they are still interested. For what its worth I think Kevin 'the hatchet man' Wilson was referring to players like Savage, Hodge and Green (who we already know about) when he talked about a clearout - with maybe Gabbi as well, all the rest are either under contract or havent had a chance yet. No one can moan on saturday if he plays the kids, even if we lose by 3 or 4 - time we found out what they can or cant do.

Pessimist at 12:42:58 Wednesday April 18 2001
Ray - Suggest you give the trophy to Clarence as firstly, we have not had a player of the season and secondly, if you can come up with a name, he will probably have been told to get on his bike by Kev.

Not Over at 11:57:48 Wednesday April 18 2001
Some Players are on the pitch. They think it's all over. BUT IT'S NOT YET!!! Why don't they play like it isn't all over.

Ray at 11:13:59 Wednesday April 18 2001
The players are training on the pitch. I will be sorting the focus early this afternoon so that the reserve game will be shown.

Ray at 11:12:35 Wednesday April 18 2001
In common with other years, it is expected that the Internet Player of the Year Trophy will be presented at one of the first Home Games next season.

Ray at 11:11:5 Wednesday April 18 2001
OK - the tipping table has been updated - slave drivers!!

handel at 9:59:33 Wednesday April 18 2001
hallelujah hallelujah hallelujah

Richard at 9:58:11 Wednesday April 18 2001
Ray, what about the tipping table? When is this going t be updated. And also when will the internet player of the year be presented, i have a feeling that with so many of the players either out injured or being dropped that Sammo is sure to win it, and I think this will be a fair result.

Ray at 9:49:36 Wednesday April 18 2001
CobblerCam is now OFF the news page.

Vince at 9:26:3 Wednesday April 18 2001
....and as for Kevan Broadhurst I don't know what input he has had at Luton but they look like being relegated. However I suspect that the combination of Wilsons enthusiasm and Broadhursts more tactical approach worked well at NTFC and many of the mistakes that are now happening (such as the number of poor passes and weak defending from crosses) may well have been corrected by Broadhurst.

Vince at 9:21:35 Wednesday April 18 2001
krs-1, yes I wondered about that too, the only other players who are out of contact are younger playewrs who have hardly played all season plus Howey who is crocked. Are the rest of them going to be transfer listed?

krs-1 at 8:33:27 Wednesday April 18 2001
Wilson talks about certainly players not pulling their weight and of having a mass clearout in the summer. Well, of Saturday's team, Solitt, Sampson, Spedding, Frain, Hunt, Gabbiadini and Forrester are all under contract for at least another year. I'm not sure about Hodge, so that only leaves Savage who, according to the C+E, didn't have a bad game. Can anyone help me, or am I missing something?

NTFC@2view at 7:35:1 Wednesday April 18 2001
Since Broadhurst left.....Someone asked the other day what influence he would have had under Atkins as first team coach. A lot, I believe. Atkins brought him in and before he was 'in' had him in the dugout with him. And, to remind you, we were relegated. You all know, surely, that we got into a 'false' position - and it was nice while it lasted. Jamie scored with every shot, Welchy stopped everything - it was how we got promoted. We loved it when we strung 5 passes together after years under Atkins when we didn't string one together. but when Jamie dried up, we proved we just aren't good enough - no-one else took on the scoring, goals started to go in that shouldn't have etc. We are desperate for any reason for the decline - apart from the truth - so to some, St. Kevan of Broadhurst is it. Next season will sort the men from the boys - a sweepstake on when we get our first win, or even first goal, could raise a bit of money. And we're really going to need all that we can get.

coat time at 0:54:51 Wednesday April 18 2001
Deepcut Cobbler I think you mean money saved it. Otherwise you dont geddit

TRB Mark at 23:17:51 Tuesday April 17 2001
Bozeatcobbler. My points about clarence were that if we had a mascot who was relevant to the club, it would be better accepted, generate more money/less hostility/embarrassment and your ol' boy would stll love it just as much.

TRB Mark at 23:14:25 Tuesday April 17 2001
Martin W. The issue of what players are or are not playing for NTFC has never been an issue for me personally, in respect of renewing my season ticket. There were fans on here in July last year having orgasms and buying 10 season tickets each, just because we had signed Gabbiadini and Foresster. And what have we had? Half a season from Jamie and some nice touches from Gabbi,the latter hardly worth the money we are paying him and if his name were Joe Bloggs, we would be calling for Wilson to get rid of him. My point is that too many fans go dewey eyed over "names" and about the amount of money spent. You can never be certain what you are going to get at seasons start and it's often the team of nonentities that cause the surprises. Although this has been a dissapointing season for me personally (as I have missed the best home games) I shall still renew my season ticket because my alleigence is to Northampton Town Football Club and not any footballer whose circumstances mean that he may, or may not wind up in a claret shirt next season..

FatBlokeFat at 22:33:52 Tuesday April 17 2001
Talking of great men that have passed on; Jim Baxter! Another sublime talent the like of which we may never see again. As a very impressionable young boy living in South London my bedroom wall was adorned with the usual pictures of Charlton, Hurst, Moore, Peters, Greaves et. al. But there were two 'foreign' players that I aspired to be like so I held my shirt cuffs like Denis Law and wore my socks round my ankles like 'Slim' Jim Baxter. The fact that I ended up looking as portly as Ferenc Puskas is another matter, but boy oh boy Jim Baxter!!!!!

Giles Lawrence (Shiteboro' COBBLER) at 21:39:43 Tuesday April 17 2001
FINAL SCORE(s) Colchester 2-2 P**h Cambridge 1-5 Milwall

Anon at 21:35:8 Tuesday April 17 2001
Brechin 1 Albion 2 !

Deepcut Cobbler at 21:34:57 Tuesday April 17 2001
For those who never saw Alec Stock on the box, the Fast Show send him up regularly as Ron the Manager. Jumpers for Goalposts etc.. Old style football values before the money ruined it.... R.I.P. Alec Stock...

Giles Lawrence (Shiteboro' COBBLER) at 21:29:11 Tuesday April 17 2001
Cambridge 1-5 MILWALL (Paul Ifell? [3])

Giles Lawrence (Shiteboro' COBBLER) at 21:27:20 Tuesday April 17 2001
Cambridge 1-4 MILWALL (Paul Ifield [2])

Lone Ranger at 21:25:33 Tuesday April 17 2001
That Grand Gentleman Alec Stock passed away today, aged 84. I had the pleasure of watching QPR under Alec do the 'double' in 1967, Third Division Champions and League Cup Winners, what a side and what a manager. The reason I say this is Alec's autobiography is entitled 'A Little Thing Called Pride' and the quote comes from what he instilled in to his players. You never gave up no matter the score because you had your professional pride at stake. Seems to ring a little hollow these days! God Bless Alec and thanks for all the memories.

Hotel Ender at 21:24:50 Tuesday April 17 2001
Marin W: I think the person thrown out at Rotherham was trying to get at the referee not Kevin Wilson, and he was only thrown out cos he pushed the steward, he wasn't thrown out by police, but by Stewards

Giles Lawrence (Shiteboro' COBBLER) at 21:23:41 Tuesday April 17 2001
The funny thing was the commentator was slagging off Andy Woodman for his Northampton connection, when the P**h keeper goes and drops a clanger.......... HA HA HA HA

Giles Lawrence (Shiteboro' COBBLER) at 21:21:54 Tuesday April 17 2001
Cambridge 1-3 MILWALL (Claridge)

Giles Lawrence (Shiteboro' COBBLER) at 21:20:52 Tuesday April 17 2001
GEDDINNN' COLCHESTER 2-2 P**h (Izzet)

Giles Lawrence (Shiteboro' COBBLER) at 21:13:8 Tuesday April 17 2001
CAMBRIDGE 1-2 Milwall (Tom Youngs)

Giles Lawrence (Shiteboro' COBBLER) at 21:9:29 Tuesday April 17 2001
Yeah, very sad to see a referee die like that :-(

Giles Lawrence at 21:8:7 Tuesday April 17 2001
The postings are taking a little while to appear..........

Deepcut Cobbler at 21:8:4 Tuesday April 17 2001
Try again.. More on referee Mike North. He was the linesman at our end when Grimsby scored at Wembley. I saw his brother, an old mate of mine, who was there supporting him on his first time officiating at Wembley. I ribbed him for not giving the foul. I do not know if it was his only time at Wembley. Perspective for life and that the Men in Black do it for their love of the game and that their only supporters are normally family. R.I.P. Mike North....

Deepcut Cobbler at 21:1:22 Tuesday April 17 2001
Has my posting dissappeared or am I the only one who cannot see it?y

Giles Lawrence (Shiteboro' COBBLER) at 20:59:28 Tuesday April 17 2001
Cambridge 0-2 Milwall (Paul Ifield)

Giles Lawrence (Shiteboro' COBBLER) at 20:59:3 Tuesday April 17 2001
Cambridge 0-2 Milwall (Paul Ifield)

Giles Lawrence (Shiteboro' COBBLER) at 20:56:39 Tuesday April 17 2001
Shite........ Colchester 1-2 P**h (Oldfield)

Giles Lawrence (Shiteboro' COBBLER) at 20:22:13 Tuesday April 17 2001
Cambridge 0-1 MILWALL

Giles Lawrence (Shiteboro' COBBLER) at 20:4:52 Tuesday April 17 2001
COME ON....... COLCHESTER 1-1 P**h

Giles Lawrence (Shiteboro' COBBLER) at 19:56:43 Tuesday April 17 2001
P**h leading 1-0........ Jason Lee

CALLING ALL IN THE NORTH STAND at 19:16:20 Tuesday April 17 2001
On Saturday we need your support more than ever. It is necessary that everytime one of players in going for goal you shout "Oi Woody!!" You know the results. Come on get behind the lads. Up the Cobblers

COUNTY COBBLER at 18:52:47 Tuesday April 17 2001
Has anybody else noticed that Kevin Wilson only signs players smaller than himself!!!! Forrester,Lopes,Hodge,Whitley,Dempsey,Frain(re-signed) Tall powerful players are released Howard and Green.I WONDER WHY WE ARE NOW UNABLE TO PHYSICALLY COMPETE WITH SIDES NOW?????

Lancaster Cobbler at 18:6:44 Tuesday April 17 2001
What will always stick in my memory is Clarence chasing Happy Harry Hatter and seeing him arrive at the Kettering game in a box!!! How must the little kids have felt!

Griff th Griffin at 17:59:41 Tuesday April 17 2001
Anyone going to let me out this cupboard? Surely its time for another match!

Bozeat Cobbler at 17:57:25 Tuesday April 17 2001
I cant believe some of the trivia that is posted here!!! Leave Clarence alone.....my young lad (Age 7)has started coming to selected matches this season...to him Clarence is only a focal point for the youngsters the main attraction is the football (ahhhh the age of innocence). As anyone who sits near us in the North Stand will testify how much he enjoys the football.....but he has been an abiding memory of his first game at Sixfields when Clarence took him to the goalmouth to have his photo taken......that sort of thing lives in the memory of our younger supporters

Lancaster Cobbler at 17:56:37 Tuesday April 17 2001
I fully agree with the comments re: Wilson's targets. Without wanting to sound like a nerd, it is very true. According to Management Theory targets should be set slightly higher than is obtainable or dysfunctioanl behaviour will occur - this is exactly what has happened. Speaking about people not happy Atkins has come up with some blind comments on www.cufconline.org.uk it made me laugh!!

Anon at 17:53:43 Tuesday April 17 2001
Anyone know what the club record is for going without a win?

Bozeat Cobbler at 17:51:44 Tuesday April 17 2001
The Board wont sack him.......he's bullet proof there. Me thinks he's peeed off with the attitude of certain players and could walk out in disgust.

Ray at 17:51:39 Tuesday April 17 2001
Martin: We are being asked to pay for out tickets 2 weeks early. Its hardly a lifetime. The "normal" prices haven't been released yet. Are the people who don't renew or purchase by the deadline going to look silly when/if they go up? With regards to the proposed consortium - I don't think the board are adverse to selling - but I do know they will want the right deal - wouldn't you? You don't seriously expect them to take the first offer that comes along do you?

Ray at 17:47:33 Tuesday April 17 2001
"If I'm still here"...(a) another job in the offing (b) hes about to be sacked (c) hes about to walk out in disgust (d) another reason... discuss...

Hedwig at 17:47:21 Tuesday April 17 2001
Hendon could not defend though. How many goals did we concede at his far post!!!!!

Bozeat Cobbler at 17:42:33 Tuesday April 17 2001
Is it me or do we not seem to have a plan B when plan A fails? I'm not having a pop at Wilson but it seems to me that certain players hearts are not in the game......its his job to sort them out. I think the most telling thing to come out of the weekend was Wilson's comment after yesterdays game....'if i'm still here' when referring to next season. One of our senior players reckons that Willo is as bad as Atkins!!!

Hartwell at 17:41:47 Tuesday April 17 2001
Martin W - you are right in general about Wilson. However where I believe he is to blame (and I've said it before) is over his constant public statements to the effect that "we need about 4 points to avoid relegation" when we were just below the top six. So, as soon as we did get his target points tally it was no coincidence that it tallied with the start of our abject current decline. Clearly the players had read his lips and the message was taken as saying: your job's are done once we are safe. Whereas he should have been geeing them up and making them believe that a playoff place was possible. To that end I firmly believe Wilson has to take some of the responsibility for the present lethargy. Don't get me wrong, though - I agree with what you say in general.

Hartwell at 17:34:34 Tuesday April 17 2001
Cheadle Cobbler - nope, wasn't me! Or if it was nobody told me about it! What was it about, anyway? KRS-1 and others who have mentioned Hendon's departure: yes, you are so right. He was one of the few players we had who could hit a proper telling long pass (rather than an aimless long ball) and get team mates into the box behind their defenderfs. All we mostly do now is play in front of the opposition defences and that shows no intelligence or creativity. We just make it easy for defenders to pick off our passes or Frain's dolly lobs which fall well short of the penalty box. Finally, ref the Broadhurst debate, I believe we've picked up 26 points from 27 games since he left. I don't know whether that's a pure co-incidence or whether there's more to it. Maybe you have a view on it?

MartinW at 17:23:19 Tuesday April 17 2001
I'm fed up. Not so much about the way the team is playing. Although God knows if we keep on the way we are going we could end up in a relegation dog fight. Amazingly. But fed up with the amount of vitriol being hurled at Kevin Wilson. Someone tried to attack him on Saturday and got led away by police. And then there were the usual suspects who shout and swear at the manager whenever we don't do that well. If we are in a bad state - then it's because we are having to sell. Coventry are in danger of relegation, not because Strachan isn't much cop as a manager. It wasn't so long ago he was turning down a move to a top Portuguese club. But because they sold their only world class player Robbie Keane and could not come close to replace him. That's the way it is. Wilson's hands are tied and he cannot be judged on things as they are at the moment. My main concern is that the club board may not be accepting a deal that could inject new money and new talent into the club. The way it looks is that we the fans are being asked to stump up money in advance for our season tickets to eak up the revenue and what's the bet that after the May deadline, players like Forrester and Hunt will end up going to the highest bidder - therefore robbing us of two of the reasons we pay to go and see the club. The way things are going, we seem to be replacing players with cheap youth rejects from other clubs - because our youth system is not up to much. The Italian job - the consortium who could take over the club - would help create a decent youth system and that would be a godsend. I hope the board are not resisting the takeover because they want to hold onto power. Because that would be to the detriment of the club. I will reserve judgement until such time as we know where the club is going. Because it is clear the players are playing as if they don't know where the club is going. Forrester and Gabby are as good an indicator of the body language of the players as any. Hardly any goals at all this year. The sooner the uncertainty over the future of the club is sorted, the sooner we may see results on the pitch. My plea to the board would be - SORT IT OUT. And to the fans - BE PATIENT. But my fear is that neither will happen.

Ray at 16:58:38 Tuesday April 17 2001
Its here: http://boards.rivals.net/default.asp?sid=1008&p=16&style=1&forumid=5488

Stewpot at 16:49:5 Tuesday April 17 2001
While playing in the quiz league earlier I was made aware of a site called The National Obsession.com where there is a message board to leave thoughts about the referee who passed away at the Southend match yesterday.

Cheadle Cobbler at 16:38:39 Tuesday April 17 2001
Hartwell-I've got a feeling that was you on Radio 2 this morning. If it was, well done for winning the quiz.

Ray at 16:34:42 Tuesday April 17 2001
Sorry - cant get there until tomorrow.

Dyl at 16:22:42 Tuesday April 17 2001
Ray, you promised that dratted camera would be off the news page after the 15th. But it's still there! Any chance of putting us out of our misery?

Dyl at 16:22:31 Tuesday April 17 2001
Ray, you promised that dratted camerfa would be off teh news page after the 15th. But it's still there! Any chance of putting us out of our misery?

Ray at 16:9:56 Tuesday April 17 2001
I'll trot over tomorrow and try and get it focussed. Do you like the new CobblerCam page?

Ray at 16:8:51 Tuesday April 17 2001
Nope - its all white.

Nosey Parker at 15:54:58 Tuesday April 17 2001
Is it snowing at sixfields? the cobbler cam is very white!!!!

Dyl at 15:42:10 Tuesday April 17 2001
Speaking to a friend who supports Luton, she says that Howard has been playing well but nobody knows how to play with him. He's laying balls off and no-one is reading them.

PATTCOBB at 15:27:55 Tuesday April 17 2001
Although he hasn't exactly set luton alight has he?

krs-1 at 15:27:48 Tuesday April 17 2001
Yeah I was gutted when Hendon left. I don't think he's been replaced either. How many times did he hit diagonal (long) balls in behind the last man for Forrester to sprint onto? Or shallower balls onto Steve's head?

PATTCOBB at 15:26:46 Tuesday April 17 2001
Missing Man W 8 D 9 L 13-that's just a quick look- and you may have a point.......

Missing Man at 15:19:55 Tuesday April 17 2001
Surley the turning point in the season was Broadhurst leaving. It can't just be an amazing coincidence. Does someone know the statistics. i.e games won, lost and drawn before and after Broadhurst left.

Chip at 15:16:36 Tuesday April 17 2001
"SAVE CHIP" It's off Soccer AM. I think it's because some bird was trying to stop her boyfriend watching footie on Saturday's.

Rachel C at 15:16:31 Tuesday April 17 2001
David, visit http://www.savechip.com/ it'll tell u all about it there!

SAVE CHIP! at 15:15:54 Tuesday April 17 2001
I think the banner you are reffering to should read Save Chip, David. Remember. Save Chip....don't let Sarah win!

MAD at 15:15:38 Tuesday April 17 2001
"SAVE CHIP" It's off Soccer AM

Rachel C at 15:14:2 Tuesday April 17 2001
U mean Save chip!?

PATTCOBB at 15:11:54 Tuesday April 17 2001
Was i the only one whose stomach churned in the autumn at the sale of Ian Hendon,I know one player doesn't make a team......but think back to how the club was on a high in the summer and early weeks of the season.What with top players being signed and added to a side that if it wasn't for Atkins'poor start, would have won Div 3 by some distance,everything seemed rosy............Then the best right-back in the lower leagues was sold for a pittance rumours that he had to go to ease the finances.No it's not the loss of the player but it's the message it sent out to players,future players, fans and probably (team) management.in my view if you want to pinpoint the change of fortunes there you have it.On a slightly different subject,has anyone seen a really decent team this season?

David at 15:11:17 Tuesday April 17 2001
Can any one explain why some away supporters display notices reading sace chip. Any one got any Ideas what this means please.

krs-1 at 15:8:51 Tuesday April 17 2001
I think you'll find your proposition for "paying wages for playing" is actually illegal, my friend.

David at 15:8:15 Tuesday April 17 2001
Can any one explain why some away supporters display notices reading sace chip. Any one got any Ideas what this means please.

English Teacher at 14:45:22 Tuesday April 17 2001
Here are some full stops......... commas,,,,,,,, and capital letters CCCCCCCC. Please insert as appropriate into martni's message.

martni at 14:22:52 Tuesday April 17 2001
well me verry pissed off with cobs been home and a way all season and feel robbed payed all that money to see a team play well or put the effort in but onece we were safe the footy stoped and the comiment was shit if it wasent for us traviling fans and loyal supporters they would not b at this club u would think they would return the favor and play till the end of season wot a load of rubbish they all r if i was maniger i would pay wages for playing and that way we would have saved money for the last 6 weeks p.s i am not moaning but feel let down and robber who else feels that way please let me know

Couldn't happen to a nicer man at 14:11:57 Tuesday April 17 2001
Carlisle had 4 sent off yesterday. 3 players and Ian Atkins!

:0( Prophet of doom at 13:42:21 Tuesday April 17 2001
Seen it all before folks. The good players do just enough to impress throughout the season to either get sold or rewarded with another contract, then WE GO DOWN. If not this season, then definately next.Don't believe it? When was the last time we went up and spent more than two seasons in the higher division. No consistent investment, two thirds full stadium etc etc. It's just the way it has always been and WILL ALWAYS BE

Hartwell at 13:41:58 Tuesday April 17 2001
Graham - I don't think the club has any authority to do that. Anyway, the all-seater provision is a legal issue isn't it? We have always to remember the dreadful disasters that caused the government inquiry into football safety and the resulting directives While many fans still hanker for standing areas, the fact is the government deemed it to be the most likely way to make football stadia safer for the general public. In that respect the safety record of all-seater grounds to date is a powerful argument for them. We all know many, maybe the majority of fans, would prefer to stand. But while they is a preference, do we know best when it comes to safety? We also must not lose sight of the fact that the arrival of new or remodelled all-seater stadia has been a major factor inh the renaissance of a sport which looked to be in danger of dying from decay, hooliganism and olther social factors. These new grounds have encouraged new fans to the game. In our case it is no co-incidence that since moving from the County Ground our gates have probably doubled and we have an unprecedented number of season ticket holders. So, while many would probably like th stand, the reality is that it's proved safer to have all-seater grounds and they in turn have reduced violence and crowd disturbances inside the stadia and helped entice more new faces to watch the game. So we have to keep a perspective on this and remember that, above all, it is safety that matters. If it were,however, possible to prove beyond doubt that standing areas could be at least as safe and would not take us back to the bad old days of terrace violence, then I'm sure the authorities would have to take a second look at it. But the fact is, to date, I don't think any such evidence exists.

Anon at 12:24:30 Tuesday April 17 2001
Wilson Keep Forrester

Anon at 11:36:30 Tuesday April 17 2001
You lot wouldnt know a good footballer if you fell over one.

krs-1 at 11:31:40 Tuesday April 17 2001
Probably because Wilson believes Zimmer can play in a number of positions. Personally, I'd rather see Welchy play at centre mid than "Frainy-boy"....

Anon at 11:31:3 Tuesday April 17 2001
Simple, money! We did not have any at the time.

Hotel Ender at 11:28:47 Tuesday April 17 2001
I wonder about Wilson. He is praising Sammo (quite rightly) and Frain, who, while always being a hero, is frankly too slow, although he did put in some good tackles yesterday. I still can't understand why Frain got a 2 year contract and Nicholson wasn't given a contract at all allowing Notts to pick him up.

Graham at 11:1:20 Tuesday April 17 2001
Somewhere along the line there is a clause in our loan term from the football trust that states we cannot have terracing at Sixfields. I guess that needs to be negotiated out.

PATTCOBB at 10:51:51 Tuesday April 17 2001
Just a quick few words to any Cobblers players that may be reading this.PLEASE PUT SOME EFFORT IN YOU ARE ALL DECENT PLAYERS-IF YOU MATCH YOUR ABILITY WITH ENDEAVOUR WE WILL BE A DECENT SIDE........

Vince at 10:48:1 Tuesday April 17 2001
The time taken to evacuate a stadium depends on a number of factors, not least the number and size of the exit gates - although it is easier to move away from a standing area this can create a log jam at the exit gates as used to be the case at the County Ground. Having said that I like to have the option of standing and providing there are enough exit gates I see no real reason why standing areas with controlled numbers should not be part of any expansion plans at Sixfields.

Keith at 10:19:37 Tuesday April 17 2001
It is quite poignant given the recent Hillsborough anniversary, but I fervantly believe, that should the need arise, an all seater stadium takes much longer to evacuate. Just trying to get out at the end of the game takes ages. It really is time that the club considered controlled standing areas.

marco at 10:15:26 Tuesday April 17 2001
had time to calm down after friday night but still very disappointed at the performance. A lot of us put in many miles travelling to watch the cobblers and I have to wonder why when you see that sort of performance. Just a few points to make. I've been more than happy to give young players time to settle in and improve but Duncan Spedding is never going to be good enough. I can see that, every one I speak to can see it so why can't the manager. Let him go. The loyalty shown to John Frain is also unjustified. Hauling Hunt off instead of him was ridiculous. His form hasn't warranted making him the automatic choice he is. We have the makings of a good squad with welch, sollitt, hope, sampson, hunt, hodge, forrester, hargreaves etc but need to strengthen in the right areas and not be frightened to drop/let go underperforming players. Roy Hunter has long been missed but we can't expect him to come back the same player. Having said that I did spot him on match of the day in the middlesbrough crowd at highbury jumping around like an idiot when their third goal went in!

Richard at 10:7:58 Tuesday April 17 2001
Ray - When is the tipping table going to be updated for the two games this weekend?

Dyl at 10:2:41 Tuesday April 17 2001
I've never had grief at all. But after the jobsworths at Old Trafford have closed areas because of standing I can well believe that jobsworths in the Council or the Stadium management will follow suit.

krs-1 at 9:58:39 Tuesday April 17 2001
Can't see that being true, surely. Do u get grief in the DB then, if you stand up? I'm not even in the back row of the West and I still stand for most of the match. Nobody complains, and I've never "had words" with a steward....

Sid at 9:58:25 Tuesday April 17 2001
Thanks to that b****y Stewart Talbot, Hunt is crcoked for the rest of the season - and I hope it happens to him some day. I managed to go up to the match, and I have never seen such an incompetent display of refereeing. It was atrocious, biased, just plain crap. Disallowed a Forrester goal because apparently he is stronger than two players who are twice the size of him, played to Rotherham's excellent diving display, and gave a foul every time we tocuhed a Rotherham player. 28 fouls to their 12! Anyway, this didn't disguise the fact that we didn't even look like having a shot in the second half, and were just plain poor. Oh well, lets hope we can just score - let alone win - before the end of the season!

Dyl at 9:47:37 Tuesday April 17 2001
A very disturbing rumour was flying around the North Stand on Friday. Apparently standing is to be banned from next season at Sixfields. The steward with the mullet has apparently quit because he is not prepared to enforce such a rule, as anyone standing will be ejected. TCMP is this the case? I need an answer before I buy my season ticket, or will the club just tell us when it is too late to switch to an alternate seat. Fact: it is impossible for the back row of the North Stand to have everyone sitting down. There just isn't enough leg room. Question: How many injuries have been caused by/to people standing at Sixfields? How many people will be kneecapped if they are forced to sit down and then try to stand quickly? As my friend was kneecapped in that way at Rotherham (and there was more legroom there) I suggest quite a number. Does the club want to be sued under public liability?

Anon at 9:21:49 Tuesday April 17 2001
Yep - still working.

Anon at 9:19:11 Tuesday April 17 2001
,

Greg at 0:18:36 Tuesday April 17 2001
Harry c, no fight?!first half until hunt got nobbled our fight and comittment was sound and we were the better side, after that we lacked in the midfield,therefor created little,but it wasn't due to effort.also the ref was bollocks and how can Jamie Forrester have a goal disallowed for pushing 2 6foot cart horses of the ball STICK TO BOXING MR CARPENTER

Ray at 23:6:7 Monday April 16 2001
Please remember that is a football site - well it was until we reached 52 points.

Reggie at 23:3:58 Monday April 16 2001
It's a larf a minute here! Watchout though as you will soon be reminded that this is a football site. Miserable buggers!!!!

Off With His Head at 23:2:11 Monday April 16 2001
Camilla Parker Bowles?

Anon at 22:59:54 Monday April 16 2001
Whats Clarence doing at Buck House?

A Cobbler at 22:57:56 Monday April 16 2001
Well, Hunty didn't look too god when he hobbled into the away seats using crutches towards the end of the 1st half.........

CottonBoy at 22:52:32 Monday April 16 2001
Vera Lin runs the Chinky down Oxford Street, Cotton End.

Mainwaring at 22:50:49 Monday April 16 2001
Lynn! Damn it boy! We didn't go through two world wars for you so you could not spell her name right!!

News At Ten at 22:48:56 Monday April 16 2001
A strange looking creature has been seen in the grounds of Buckingham Palace, witnesses say it has a long scrawny neck, a very large proboscus and flippy-flappy fleshy ears.

A Childs View at 22:47:44 Monday April 16 2001
Is Hunty definitely crocked - if so that's a bit of a nightmare!! He's the only player who wins the ball in order that we can hoof it to Jamie or Gabbs so they can lose out to some massive centre half who towers over the both of them!! That old Dame Vera Lin song is coming to mind - "We'll win again, don't know where, don't know when, but I know we'll win again - some sunny day!!"

King at 22:46:41 Monday April 16 2001
IT'S ONE FOR THE MONEY, TWO FOR THE SHOW, THREE TO GET READY, NOW GO CAT GO . . . Pass me a cheeseburger!

mick at 22:25:42 Monday April 16 2001
you moaners who think we are going to get relegated this year might want to save their breathe (or fingers) Prices on NTFC getting relegated are similar to Elvis being found alive, or a ufo landing on Buckingham Palace

Anon at 22:21:55 Monday April 16 2001
`

Ralph at 22:17:33 Monday April 16 2001
One of the same I'm afraid, M J North refereed us at Swindon last week.

Anon at 22:15:19 Monday April 16 2001
And how on earth did that Rotherham player stay on the pitch after two-footing Hunt???

Harry C at 22:12:5 Monday April 16 2001
Having just got back from the Millmoor scrapyard it is obvious that the players just want to get this season over with as quick as possible. Again there was no fight, no urgency and Kevin Wilson is quite right to express his embarrassment to the 300or so fans who travelled up north. People will knock Gabbiadini but noone covers more ground than he.He was signed as a proven goalscorer....ther is one difference ...with other teams he did not have to make up for the shortcomings of a woeful midfield.Why is it that every other team we play seem fitter, get to the ball quicker, dont allow time for the opposition to get composed on the ball etc..etc? By the way was the unfortunate ref who died today the one who reffed at Swindon last week?...

Rachel C at 22:9:56 Monday April 16 2001
awww really Spud?! Bless him! It brings home all sentiments when you know you've had contact with someone and they die. R.I.P.

Anon at 22:7:23 Monday April 16 2001
It was soooo funny at rotherham when anything happened all the cobblers fans were shouting "Penalty" and "Free kick, surely ref!" for the Rotherham players, cos everything seemed to be goin their way!

Spud at 22:6:44 Monday April 16 2001
The ref who died today was the ref at Colchester and Swindon both away.You know the one the referee's a porn star.Our thoughts are with his family.After all he must referee for the love of it certainl not for the money.

Giles Lawrence (Shiteboro' COBBLER) at 21:51:42 Monday April 16 2001
I'm going to join Bexxy and slit my wrists....... This team does not deserve the �350 odd, that I COULD shell out for a season ticket. GOODBYE cruel world................. :-(

Giles Lawrence (Shiteboro' COBBLER) at 21:49:5 Monday April 16 2001
Supposedly FORRESTER's goal was disallowed for 'Pushing' - Yeah, like little Jamie's gonna shove over 2 6-foot defenders...... The referee was again SHITE, everytime Rotherham 'fell over' he'd give them a free-kick. ROBBED again......

Mr Broard at 21:46:39 Monday April 16 2001
Mick, you have all the qualities to take over from me mate. Pessimisic and no vision.

Big Roy at 21:40:36 Monday April 16 2001
I believe ya Ralph.

Ray at 21:40:22 Monday April 16 2001
Quite right Allen - if you want to win money on the Cobblers - always bet against me :-)

Ray at 21:39:23 Monday April 16 2001
Thanks Ralph - I guess this was taken from the Radio Northampton interview.

Allan at 21:39:18 Monday April 16 2001
You usually are Ray! Knowing our luck you will probably be right!! :-)

Ray at 21:37:8 Monday April 16 2001
Relegation issues: Any of the teams below us except for the bottom 3 can overtake us. We need 4 points to gaurantee safety ie a win and a draw. Based on the last few performances I can't even see us getting that and I think we will have to rely on the other teams not winning their matches. Lets not do a York for goodness sake! At the moment I can't see us finishing above 17th. - lets hope I'm wrong.

Ralph at 21:36:36 Monday April 16 2001
A more accurate transcript of Willo's rant is on the official news board. Read it yourselves.

Ralph at 21:32:27 Monday April 16 2001
Neil - I am only reporting what Wilson said on the radio. What he says and does is another matter.

Neil at 21:15:58 Monday April 16 2001
Ralph - if Wilson is prepared to give the young players a chance, don't you think he would have played them by now? He originally said that he would play them when we couldn't get into the playoffs. Well that never materialised did it. Even if he does play them now, four games isn't enough to give them a fair chance of earning new contracts.

Bexxy at 21:11:54 Monday April 16 2001
Im really annoyed!!! We werent exactly great today, but no way did Rotherham deserve all 3 bloomin points!! They were as crap as us half the time and a draw would have been fair!!! As for the referee..ive never known one like it..He gave Rotherham everything and us nowt!!! Talk about go with the home supporters!! I dont think he had a mind of his own!! I cant belive we've slipped to 15th place either!!! If we carry on like this we'll be 'doing a York in 98/99' and we'll end up in that last relegation place on the last game of the season ..(when we get tonked @ home by Walsall!! Its not looking good.... and when will we score again??? Im off to slit my wrists....

Mick at 21:6:9 Monday April 16 2001
It's easy to complain about the lack of marketing, but it's a tricky one to promote ntfc. Pretty much everyone in Northants is aware of The Cobblers and where and whem they play. If you reduce pricing you are in danger of getting practically the same number of people going, and just less receipts. The only seats available are always the worst ones in the North and West Stands, so any firt time attender is going to get a poor view. They are trying to increase revenue by allowing more away support in the East Stand but, of course, the season ticket holders there are complaining like mad. Let's face it, the only way you are going to get more receipts is by the team winning more games; it's as simple as that. So let's not chuck money at hare brained schemes that could be spent bringing in (or keeping) good players. The attendance is about right for the league position, so there's no point in trying to artificially raise it. The only long term effort I can think of is to visit the schools, but is there any evidence it actually increases the gate? The sad thing is that the best time to do this would be between seasons and they are all shut! did any schools take up the recent offer for block booking? I doubt it.

Ray at 21:3:36 Monday April 16 2001
Can I just comment that Norman Howells is NOT the commercial manager.

Rodney at 21:3:11 Monday April 16 2001
Allan - Clare has started a number of league matches for Grimsby this month and been given good match ratings; why would he drop a division to come to Sixfields?

Ralph at 20:56:8 Monday April 16 2001
In the post match interview on Radio Northampton Kevin Wilson was absolutely scathing about the squad, citing Frain and Sampson as the only two to show any sign of commitment. Wilson raged that if the players do not want to play for him he will root them out and replace them. He did not sound massively confident, furious, but not confident as he added . . . 'so long as I am here'. He is prepared to blood the young players and it is certainly an option he will look at. From being over protective of the players this seems to be a complete turnaround. He banged on how much the fans pay to watch the team and how the fans are entitled to expect more. Saturday's team and performance will make interesting fare. James Hunt has damaged medial ligaments and will miss the remainder of the season.

Lancaster Cobbler at 20:56:8 Monday April 16 2001
Rodney - You may well be right as Hunt is out for the season, although this may mean that Whitley will be allowed to play in midfield his proper position. More worrying is Wilson defending Frain, so what senior players will get the boot? savage? Hodge? Gabbiadini??

R.I.P Michael North at 20:55:46 Monday April 16 2001
Southend hospital have confirmed that referee Michael North has died after suffering a heart attack during Southend's game with Mansfield today. The Roots Hall match was abandoned after North collapsed in the centre circle moments before the end of the first 45 minutes. He was rushed straight to Southend Hospital, who later confirmed his death as a result of cardiac arrest. Shrimpers physio John Gowens had earlier helped with North's attempted revival and he commented: "His breathing was very shallow, as was his pulse. I did what I could as I was first on the pitch, and then the doctors took over." The game was goalless when the decision was taken not to proceed with the second half and the Division Three game will be re-scheduled for Wednesday, April 18 or Thursday, April 19.

Allan at 20:45:31 Monday April 16 2001
Terry, look to the future and not the past old son! Corrazin would never score 18 goals in a season so long as he has a hole in his bum. Half the goals he scored for us were penalties. He was slow and half hearted, but he knew how to treat the fans. As for Clare, he can't get in a struggling Grimsby side and doesn't feature at Cheltenham anymore. While your at it do want to mention Mickey Warner, Ray Warburton and Carl Heggs too?

Rachel C at 20:25:57 Monday April 16 2001
inconsistant, not unconsistant!! oooppppssss

Rachel C at 20:23:9 Monday April 16 2001
OK, so maybe we didn't get the result we wanted, but we played pretty well (well most of the time) the ref was as unconsistant as ever, can anyone shed any light on the fact why Jamie's goal was disallowed?! Heard that the ref blew his whistle before it went in or something?! Poor James Hunt!

Looking for an alternative at 20:18:44 Monday April 16 2001
Dear Mr. Stonhill, please would you list the reasons why I should fork out over �500 in season ticket money for me and the lad next season. Whilst compiling this list, please do not use phrases like "great entertainment" and "good value for money" as we will all know that you're taking the piss. Thank you.

Rodney at 20:8:14 Monday April 16 2001
Any chance of the official website offering odds - on the new betting section - of us not winning again this season?! I'm sure that they'd get a few takers. Never mind the fact that most of us would have accepted survival this season, things have surely gone pear-shaped both on and off the field. Stonhill announced, when we moved to Sixfields, that the medium term aim was to become an Ipswich.Next season their capacity will be 32000 and they currently have a 7000 waiting list for season tickets. It's useless to have ambitions and dreams unless you have the money and nouse to back them up. NTFC currently have neither. The 'reported' 150 early takers for next season are either very loyal or else...The fare on offer recently is hardly a great advertisement for renewing. The Direones season tickets next season in Div 3 (?) will probably cost half as much as ours. My president's membership at Northants costs roughly half and that gets two of us in, and cheaper beer prices plus free admission to other counties. I think this club of ours is up **** creek with no sign of a paddle. Am I being overly pessimistic or does anyone else agree?

Lancaster Cobbler at 20:0:34 Monday April 16 2001
KC Only one relegation place can get us now as the bottom three cannot overhaul us, we will be safe on Sat if we win and Swindon fail to win. Basically even if Swindon win two games and we lost our last 4 games we would not go down. I expect that we will beat Colchester and maybe draw one more.

Terry Hawes at 19:57:59 Monday April 16 2001
It is disappointing to go into this slide as it takes away what has been a very good year for the club. I agree that it seemed since Wilson put that 52 point target for safety, it's like the team felt like playing out the string, but I for one will chalk this blunder to Wilson's inexperience. In future, he would be best not to put targets in terms of number of points. Does Jamie want to stay? What about Gabbo? We don't seem to have any scoring touch and despite the Corazzin slaggings, he was consistent in scoring throughout the year. It wouldn't surprise me if Wilson went after Daryl Clare again on a permanent basis to shake the team up, is he still at Cheltenham by the way? Anyway, good luck to the boys this weekend, lets hope we can get two more wins and reach 60 points. Cheers, Terry

The Ashford Cobbler at 19:39:39 Monday April 16 2001
Depressing though this end of season is I think we have met our original objective of staying up which all of us would have been happy with. I for one felt fairly certain we would have been looking up from the bottom of the division for much of the season so have been pleased that we have been in touch with the play offs throughout. I really hope Wilson makes the right signings in the summer which have to be a few. A right back, a pacy centre half, a creative midfielder and a target man. These have to be the right side of thirty. Please no Wilkinson. People seem to have forgotten the influence of Chris Hargreaves on the team. We have seriously missed his drive down the left of midfield. Looking poitively to next season Cobblers could mount a challenge in the second with Welch, New Wing/Right back, Sampson, New pacy sweeper, Hope, Spedding, Hunter, Hunt, Hargreaves, New Target man, Forrester. With the current squad that would leave a bench of Sollitt, Frain, Savage, Hodge and Gabiadini. I'm not confident Hunter will be the player he was and we therefore probably need Hunter II to replace him. The bench here would really offer a few options to turn games in the second half. Dempsey, Lopes, Hughes continue to nurture ready for the assault on the autowindscreen shield. I think Howey, Green, Morrow, Thompson likely to be released to provide slots for new blood. I have mixed feelings about Savage but feel we will only see his best (outside of April, May!) when he has to fight for his place. I really hope we do sustain a challenge under Wilson next season else I predict a struggle through the first 2/3rds of next season, Wilson sacked, a return of Atkins (a la Beck at Cambridge). We will stay up through solid defense and kick and rush only to be relegated the following season following the departure of Forrester, Gabiadini etc.

KC at 19:11:11 Monday April 16 2001
We are now only 9 points off the relegation zone, i dont think we will go down but it is worrying!! And the poo are above us now!

KC at 19:4:43 Monday April 16 2001
Ray - will mail u details soon,but my PC is currently broke and am on a mates at this present time! As for the last few results...oh dear!!

DavCobbler at 19:3:2 Monday April 16 2001
"1-0 to the referee" was the sound filling the air from the Town fans as we left. Well, sorry folks but while the ref may have contrived to give the Millers the penalty which sent us to defeat, he certainly didn`t make us a poor side which once again we were. Apart from the odd moment of semi-creativity from the likes of Savage and Hodge we were appalling!! I see that Tim "we love you Direones and Saints, in fact anything but this" Oglethorpe stated an away support of 250 or so? Not that bad an estimate, maybe 350 - 400?? Wonder where the rest of you were eh?

Anon at 18:53:2 Monday April 16 2001
Steve Howard, 7 games 1 penalty. And i have to agree wholeheartedly about the marketing side of the club. Norman Howells hasn't a commercial bone in his body and apparently has taken 3 holidays during the playing season. I think the directors would like to get rid of him but can't afford it.

Lancaster Cobbler at 18:47:59 Monday April 16 2001
I think as well it was his first season as referee in the football league. It does put things into perceptive doesn't it.

Hartwell at 18:45:44 Monday April 16 2001
Oh, dear - well that puts everything into perspective really, doesn't it?

Hartwell at 18:44:26 Monday April 16 2001
PS - don't rerad into the last messsage that I'm part of the "sack the manager" brigade because I'm not. I just hope he'll hold his hand up,learn from his mistake and focus on next season.

Lancaster Cobbler at 18:42:4 Monday April 16 2001
Very tragic news, the ref who collapse at Roots Hall has died. He was Mike North.

Hartwell at 18:41:54 Monday April 16 2001
Well, some of us said at start of season we'd settle for staying up and consolidation. Fact is, without Forrester's goal rush and Welch's saves in first third of season we'd be well and truly in the mire by now. Its been clear as day since the team reached Wilson's self-propclaimed "safety target" of points, the foot's been right off the pedal and the majority of the team had decided the job was done. I've said it before but Wilson has to accept blame for measuring our season by securing the right number of points to avoid the drop. When we were seventh, for Christ's sake, he was banging on in public about "only needing four more points" to be safe!!!! What kind of message does that send the players? Obviously the wrong ones, because no sooner had we reached his "target" than the performances just fell away and a real "end of season" feeling suddenly appeared - eight games before the last game! Yes, Wilson has to blame the players. But he also has to look at himself, because that area of his management skills just sent the wrong messages to his squad.

A. Nonnymouse at 18:30:31 Monday April 16 2001
Has Kevin Wilson got any ideas how to stop the slide? I pose this question. Look at last season. We get rid of Atkins and it's the big bad wolf is dead, lets play football in this wonderful atmosphere of freedom. And it works, results pick up. Then we settle down to being OK and it looks like the play-offs until the last six games when we play with a rocket up our arses and secure promotion. All is well. Buoyed by the new signings and on the crest of a wave from last season, we set off like a house on fire but by Christmas we are running low on fuel. Have we got enough juice/conviction/will to splutter over the points line (previously drawn at the 52 mark but now apparently not enough) which will keep us up? What inspired words do we get from our leader? "We'll turn the corner" "We'll break the jinx" "We will still dish out a hammering to someone sooner or later" (despite the fact we can't beat any side from the bottom third of the table). The utterings from the management don't seem to match what most fans see happening on the pitch. I'm sure we will stay up but the fight against relegation next season starts NOW!!! We have got to get going in the last few games or we will be left in the blocks at the start of next season. This will be the hardest test of Wilson's managerial career. Things go in peaks and troughs. It's easy when things are at the top of the peak, but has Wilson got what it takes to get us out the trough? I hope so.

:0( at 18:0:35 Monday April 16 2001
told you you'd not get anything outta the Millers, you never do ;0)

MK COBBLER at 17:58:44 Monday April 16 2001
HELP!!!!!!!!!!!

Hotel Ender at 17:53:34 Monday April 16 2001
A poor end of season game that should have been 0-0 but for the usual Rotherham "homer" referee. Gabbiadini didn't look interested. Jamie had to cope with a constant stream of high balls. We only looked good early on when Hodge was doing what he does best, but as soon as the supply to him dried up so did the Cobblers attacking options. Rotherham were a poor side, I hope they go up, so their gobby supporters can suffer relegation next season. Their manager was a disgrace doing all he could to get a couple of Cobblers players sent off. The referee was appalling. I think we'll stay up - but I can't see where the goals are coming from. One plus point - Whitley looked good in midfield IMHO.

Team for Saturday at 17:47:15 Monday April 16 2001
Okay who do we think Wilson is not happy with - he is hardly going to play Morrow and Thomson up front is he?/ Maybe Gould, Hughes, Lopes, Dempsey in?

anon at 17:40:56 Monday April 16 2001
bristol rovers games to play are oxford and port vale at home,walsall away then wycombe and wrexham both at home. cobblers need at least another three points.

Ray at 17:28:49 Monday April 16 2001
"Anyone who doesn't want to play for me can go elsewhere"

Ray at 17:27:8 Monday April 16 2001
"I will not tolerate the performance the players gave in the second half"

Ray at 17:26:5 Monday April 16 2001
KW not very pleased... to say the least. He reckons hes now had enough of the players and will likely be playing the youngsters for the rest of the season. Next year there is going to be a big clear out (assuming hes still there). He aint a happy chappie!

Ray at 17:24:5 Monday April 16 2001
Hunt likely to be out for rest of season.

Depressing or what? at 17:14:57 Monday April 16 2001
Nggggggggggggggggggggggggggggggggaaaaaaaaaaaaahhhhhhhhhhhh!

Ralph at 17:3:24 Monday April 16 2001
We slip to fifteenth, nine points from the relegation zone.

Anon at 16:55:50 Monday April 16 2001
Final Whistle we loose again

Ralph at 16:55:45 Monday April 16 2001
Well that's it play mates, the whistle goes and Cobblers lose 1-0. Now it's back to the studio.

Anon at 16:54:50 Monday April 16 2001
Looks like another loss

Ralph at 16:54:42 Monday April 16 2001
One minute to go!

Ralph at 16:54:13 Monday April 16 2001
Tim Oglethorpe reckons this has been a good performance by the lads and we deserve at least a point. Cobblers press again but Rotherham are defending well. R&D draw 0-0.

Ralph at 16:52:51 Monday April 16 2001
Savage flicks it nicely to Frain who finds Dempsey who gets away from Sedgwick but his cross comes to nothing. Rotherham fans begin to leave. Three minutes of stoppage time.

Anon at 16:52:48 Monday April 16 2001
3mins added time

Anon at 16:52:13 Monday April 16 2001
COME ON TOWN

Anon at 16:51:32 Monday April 16 2001
Green up front !!

Ralph at 16:51:17 Monday April 16 2001
Robins turns and shoots, Sollitt saves for a corner. Corner comes in Frain clears. Green is playing up front. Either that or he is still trying to get back!

Flowerarranger at 16:51:4 Monday April 16 2001
Roll on next season! I've had enough !

Anon at 16:51:0 Monday April 16 2001
WHY ?

Anon at 16:50:1 Monday April 16 2001
Gabbiadini Off Green On

Ralph at 16:49:59 Monday April 16 2001
Rotherham break again but Robins shoots at Sollitt. Both sides keep losing posession, Sammo hoofs, ball comes back, Dempsey hoofs, throw to Rotherham. Green on for Marco!

Ralph at 16:48:0 Monday April 16 2001
Luton are 2-1 down, bang goes �25k. Six minutes to go. Branston crosses, Hope clears to Savage, to Whitley, who plays a poor ball to Lopes in to touch. Dempsey throws to Marco, to Witley, to Forrester who loses posession. Five minutes to go. Kettering win 2-1.

Ralph at 16:45:0 Monday April 16 2001
Eight minutes to go.

Ralph at 16:44:30 Monday April 16 2001
We have gone to three at the back, three in midfield and four up front in an attempt to force an equaliser. Corner to Cobblers, Frain crosses, header by Sammo cleared for a Cobbs throw.

Anon at 16:43:58 Monday April 16 2001
We must make them pay for the missed chances

Ralph at 16:42:29 Monday April 16 2001
Marco battling for the ball in midfield! Cobblers have much posession and have pushed Lopes and Hodge up front. Rotherham break and Lee spurns a great chance over the bar from six yards.

Anon at 16:42:16 Monday April 16 2001
Lee misses a sitter

Ralph at 16:40:8 Monday April 16 2001
Lopes touched Sedgwick! Tim Oglethorpe doesn't exactly say where but it was serious enough to warrant a free kick. Off the line by Dempsey from Warne, it looked like a certain goal. Still 1-0.

Anon at 16:39:58 Monday April 16 2001
Off the line by Dempsey

Anon at 16:39:12 Monday April 16 2001
Cobblers looking the better side

Ralph at 16:38:31 Monday April 16 2001
Direones still 0-0, Kettering still 2-1 up, Saints 46-16 down. Still not much going on at Millmoor. Forrester finds Hodge who puts in a great cross but no one really made an effort to get on the end of it.

Anon at 16:38:27 Monday April 16 2001
Forrester is asleep

Anon at 16:38:4 Monday April 16 2001
Rotherham uneasy at the back

Anon at 16:36:46 Monday April 16 2001
C O B B L E R S

Ralph at 16:34:51 Monday April 16 2001
About 250 Cobblers fans. Faint cries of 'yellows' can be heard. Bit of a scramble in the Cobblers area which ended up with the ball going over the bar.

Anon at 16:32:26 Monday April 16 2001
20 mins to go

Ralph at 16:32:12 Monday April 16 2001
not a lot going on at Millmoor I'm afraid, or if there is the commentator ain't saying. Lopez is on.

Anon at 16:31:24 Monday April 16 2001
Spedding Off Lopes on

Anon at 16:31:14 Monday April 16 2001
He is going to be in trouble what price Heggs get sent off?

Ralph at 16:30:42 Monday April 16 2001
Ian Atkins has just been redcarded too!

Anon at 16:30:10 Monday April 16 2001
Such a noble name Alcock, don't you think?

Anon at 16:29:28 Monday April 16 2001
Sounds like Carlisle are getting a good bleating too!

Ralph at 16:28:45 Monday April 16 2001
I heard one of the goats is related to Nicky Butt!

Anon at 16:28:1 Monday April 16 2001
saints getting a good beating

Ralph at 16:27:46 Monday April 16 2001
What about the goats?

Anon at 16:27:35 Monday April 16 2001
What a surprise the Carlisle ref is Mr Alcock

Anon at 16:27:17 Monday April 16 2001
I've heard of deckchairs collapsing at Southend but never referee's!

Anon at 16:26:35 Monday April 16 2001
Carlisle down to 8 men!

Ralph at 16:26:12 Monday April 16 2001
Cobblers are holding their own! You can never be sure when you go up North. Apparently Rotherham want a cushion! This commentary gets wierder by the minute.

Lancaster Cobbler at 16:24:34 Monday April 16 2001
Some bad news -the Southend game has been abandoned due to the referee collpasing.

Ralph at 16:23:45 Monday April 16 2001
Time for a bit of egg chasing!

Anon at 16:23:39 Monday April 16 2001
more rugby ZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZ

Anon at 16:23:11 Monday April 16 2001
Gabbi overhead kick

Ralph at 16:22:58 Monday April 16 2001
Hodge with the throw, taking his time, Whitley back to Hodge, wasted! Still not happy about the penalty decision. It appears that two Rotherham players fouled each other and Hope got the blame! Marco overhead kick on to the top of the net!

Anon at 16:21:0 Monday April 16 2001
The wall stood firm

Ralph at 16:20:41 Monday April 16 2001
Free kick on the edge to Rotherham . . . hits the wall!

Ralph at 16:19:56 Monday April 16 2001
The four sheep play in the baaaaaack four!

Ralph at 16:19:9 Monday April 16 2001
9 men, two goats and four sheep!

Ralph at 16:18:34 Monday April 16 2001
Cobblers nearly level, but Hodge lost control totally!

Anon at 16:18:27 Monday April 16 2001
Carlisle down to 9 men!!!

Anon at 16:17:50 Monday April 16 2001
Plays it wide and a cross comes in cleared, breaking down the right, square ball inside, shoots. Goal kick.

Anon at 16:17:30 Monday April 16 2001
We need points Today

Another Defeat... at 16:16:38 Monday April 16 2001
Would surley be another nail in KW coffin? Oh actually... I remember the Atkins situation.... a relegation didn't even stir our board.

Crusty at 16:16:37 Monday April 16 2001
What's your favourite jam? Mine is blackcurrant.

Anon at 16:15:45 Monday April 16 2001
That's mud in your eye! Poor ball by Dempsey. Back to Rugby!

Anon at 16:15:35 Monday April 16 2001
Dunchirch is full of old people (I think John Frain lives there)

Anon at 16:14:54 Monday April 16 2001
Shoots . . . just wide!

Anon at 16:14:34 Monday April 16 2001
Come on Cobblers

Paul at 16:14:22 Monday April 16 2001
Yeovil 2-0 down :(((((((((((((

Lancaster Cobbler at 16:14:9 Monday April 16 2001
Cobblers need 7 points to be mathematically certain to avoid relegation!!

Crusty at 16:14:7 Monday April 16 2001
What about Dunchurch? It has a very nice Sainsbury's.

Anon at 16:13:21 Monday April 16 2001
Corner!

Anon at 16:13:6 Monday April 16 2001
I hate all Warwickshire Towns

Anon at 16:13:2 Monday April 16 2001
Oooooooh that was close!

Crusty at 16:12:22 Monday April 16 2001
So Oglethorpe reckons it wern't a pen as Branston fouled his own man!!!! He's a maniac that Branston, he'll kick anything that moves. (That's Frainy safe then).

Anon at 16:10:58 Monday April 16 2001
Anne Robinson hates Wales! Rugby's not that bad, it has a nice station!

Ray at 16:9:48 Monday April 16 2001
Back to the Cobbs... 2 minutes gone? That was a long break!

Anon at 16:8:27 Monday April 16 2001
I hate Rugby

Ray at 16:7:59 Monday April 16 2001
Hand ball! Oh no - its still the bloody Saints..

Ray at 16:5:47 Monday April 16 2001
Still at the Saints....yawn...

Anon at 16:1:15 Monday April 16 2001
1-0 half-time Glynn.

Glynn at 16:0:10 Monday April 16 2001
Keep the commentary going chaps, I suspect there are plenty of us out here that cannot get radio Numpton. Don't think many made the trip to Rotherham today.

Chocky at 15:58:43 Monday April 16 2001
Anyone fancy a bit of Easter Egg?

Wizz at 15:57:39 Monday April 16 2001
Sounds like Clarence with uranium 235 shoved up his bum!

Anon at 15:56:58 Monday April 16 2001
Atomic Kitten being played by Adam Blackmore!

Ralph at 15:55:51 Monday April 16 2001
It's raining in Kingsthorpe!

Ray at 15:54:40 Monday April 16 2001
The sun is shining at Sixfields..

Ray at 15:54:4 Monday April 16 2001
"Giddy up" would be better........

Sooth Sayer at 15:52:43 Monday April 16 2001
Woe! Woe! and thrice times WOE!

Ray at 15:52:14 Monday April 16 2001
Foul in the area.

Lancaster Cobbler at 15:51:34 Monday April 16 2001
what was it for?

Ray at 15:51:5 Monday April 16 2001
Coffee and meatpie time..

Anon at 15:50:45 Monday April 16 2001
Half Time

Ray at 15:50:30 Monday April 16 2001
Northwich 1 - Kettrin 2.... Half time - Rotherham 1- Cobblers 0

Anon at 15:50:13 Monday April 16 2001
Kettering now 2-1 up

Ray at 15:49:57 Monday April 16 2001
Sollitt gets a hand to it but fails to stop score

Anon at 15:49:41 Monday April 16 2001
Robins takes it and Scores

Anon at 15:49:11 Monday April 16 2001
Penelty to roth

Ray at 15:49:8 Monday April 16 2001
PENALTY to Roveham!

Ray at 15:48:51 Monday April 16 2001
Will we have 22 men on the field at the end? 5 booking so far.

Anon at 15:48:33 Monday April 16 2001
Spedding in the Book

Ray at 15:48:18 Monday April 16 2001
Spedding booked

Lancaster Cobbler at 15:47:16 Monday April 16 2001
Bit of luck there

Ray at 15:46:30 Monday April 16 2001
Sampson lucky not to be sent off...

Anon at 15:46:26 Monday April 16 2001
Sampson should be off for second challange on Lee

Anon at 15:45:42 Monday April 16 2001
Forrester lookimg sharp

Anon at 15:44:43 Monday April 16 2001
2 mins to go

Ray at 15:42:57 Monday April 16 2001
Still goalless at Nene Park..

Ray at 15:42:14 Monday April 16 2001
Northwich equalise...

Ray at 15:41:58 Monday April 16 2001
Unlikely I would think .......

Anon at 15:41:56 Monday April 16 2001
Kettering now 1-1

Ray at 15:41:26 Monday April 16 2001
Dempsey drops back to right back, Whitley moves forward to join the front line.

Anon at 15:41:22 Monday April 16 2001
Dempsy Right back

Anon at 15:40:54 Monday April 16 2001
Whitley in to midfield

Ray at 15:40:34 Monday April 16 2001
5 mins to go. Still 0-0. Whitley still playing at right back. Cobblers throw.

Anon at 15:40:6 Monday April 16 2001
Talbot Lucky to be on field

Lancaster Cobbler at 15:39:35 Monday April 16 2001
Oh typical, our best player is crocked, lets pray it is not serious. Lets hope Dempsey is helped through the game by Frain and co. Is Whitley in midfield now??

Ray at 15:38:42 Monday April 16 2001
Hurst to Lee to Warne to Hurst. Goalkick.

Ray at 15:37:33 Monday April 16 2001
Hunt carried off. Dempsey on.

Ray at 15:36:58 Monday April 16 2001
Hunt appears to be in trouble. Stretcher being called for.

Ray at 15:36:36 Monday April 16 2001
3rd. Rotherham player booked for tackle on Hunt. Hunt hobbling.

Ray at 15:35:30 Monday April 16 2001
Northwich 0 - Kettrin 1 !! Yes - come on u ploppies.

Ray at 15:34:44 Monday April 16 2001
Cobblers counter through Hodge. Down the wing. back to the Saints...

Ray at 15:33:41 Monday April 16 2001
Artel misses a sitter, heads over from 4 yards out.

Ray at 15:32:59 Monday April 16 2001
Corner swings in. Hodge handballs - missed by the ref. Sampson crunches Lee - yellow card.

Ray at 15:32:4 Monday April 16 2001
Sammo loses ball to Lee. Corner!

Lancaster Cobbler at 15:31:30 Monday April 16 2001
Ray did u see the bet, 20-1 for Forrester to win a penalty

Ray at 15:31:22 Monday April 16 2001
Forrester nets - but it doesnt count.

Ray at 15:31:3 Monday April 16 2001
Freekick to Cobbs, foul on Hodge. Sampson fould in the area - fortunately after the whistle.

Anon at 15:30:45 Monday April 16 2001
Yeovil losing shite

Ray at 15:30:6 Monday April 16 2001
Cobblers growing in confidence. Free kick to Roths.

Lancaster Cobbler at 15:29:46 Monday April 16 2001
Carlisle losing watch you back Atkins, Maddison and Heggsy!!

Ray at 15:29:33 Monday April 16 2001
Gabby almost scores from a freekick!

Ray at 15:29:10 Monday April 16 2001
Back to the Saints... gawd...

Lancaster Cobbler at 15:28:19 Monday April 16 2001
Quality, who is commentating Tim oglethorpe??

Ray at 15:27:52 Monday April 16 2001
Diamonds 0 - Doncaster 0 - yawn...

Ray at 15:26:41 Monday April 16 2001
Straight out for a goal kick. Back to fatty Adam at the Saints.

Anon at 15:26:25 Monday April 16 2001
Whitley ans Sollitt missunderstanding corner

Ray at 15:26:9 Monday April 16 2001
Mix up between Whitley and Sollit. Corner!

Ray at 15:25:7 Monday April 16 2001
Still 0-0, Cobbs a bit nervy. Roverham throw. Gabby finds Hunt. poor ball to Hodge. Cobblers under the cosh.

Lancaster C at 15:25:4 Monday April 16 2001
Oh great that means Frain is palying left wing!

Anon at 15:24:25 Monday April 16 2001
Lee misses good chance

Anon at 15:23:53 Monday April 16 2001
savage in the center Hodge on thr Right

Anon at 15:23:15 Monday April 16 2001
23 mins gone 0-0

Lancaster Cobbler at 15:22:53 Monday April 16 2001
We seem to be coming into the game, is Savage playing wide or in the centre?

Anon at 15:22:44 Monday April 16 2001
Robins looks class

Anon at 15:21:37 Monday April 16 2001
still 0-0!

Anon at 15:21:8 Monday April 16 2001
Kettering 1-0 up

Anon at 15:20:29 Monday April 16 2001
Poor corner from Hodge

Anon at 15:19:58 Monday April 16 2001
Savage to Hunt Corner to Town

Anon at 15:19:7 Monday April 16 2001
Forrester shoots but good save

Anon at 15:18:27 Monday April 16 2001
Wilson asks Gabbiadini to push up more

Anon at 15:15:50 Monday April 16 2001
Welch may be out for the season

Anon at 15:15:5 Monday April 16 2001
All Rotherham

Anon at 15:10:33 Monday April 16 2001
Hope clears

Anon at 15:10:11 Monday April 16 2001
Corner to rotherham

Anon at 15:6:59 Monday April 16 2001
6 mins gone

Anon at 15:6:54 Monday April 16 2001
6 mins gone

Anon at 15:6:17 Monday April 16 2001
I hope not not the 10 man thing again

Lancaster Cobbler at 15:4:26 Monday April 16 2001
I reckon Branston may walk again!!!

Anon at 15:3:54 Monday April 16 2001
Branston booked for challange on Hodge

Lancaster Cobbler at 15:3:24 Monday April 16 2001
Everyone else is probably in a padded cell!!

Anon at 15:1:36 Monday April 16 2001
Only 200 cobblers fans show up

Lancaster Cobbler at 14:58:59 Monday April 16 2001
Cheers, it is just good to know if we are playing well or not (although that is probably hard as Adam Blackmore seems more interested in the surroundings, oh what a lovely scrap heap, nice te u know

Anon at 14:56:52 Monday April 16 2001
Hi Lancaster I will do my best I am a bit slow with my type and my spelling is bad

Lancaster Cobbler at 14:52:50 Monday April 16 2001
Where si everyone? Can anyone post what is going on or I will have to rely on Ceefax (Cheers)

Lancaster Cobbler at 14:43:58 Monday April 16 2001
Team news 4-4-2 (I think) Sollitt; Whitley, Sammo, Hope, Spedding; Hodge, Savage, Hunt, Frain; Gabbas, Forrester subs Green, Dempsey, Lopes, Morrow, Ferguson.

Ray at 13:49:25 Monday April 16 2001
Cobblers to win today.. 2-1

Cobblers Marketing Department at 12:35:37 Monday April 16 2001
We're not listening!

Lancaster Cobbler at 12:32:18 Monday April 16 2001
Hartwell - If we were a top 5 Premiership side we would get at least 20,000!! If NTFC did well i.e got to Division One we could get as manyas the Saints. an interesting initiative is being used by Cambridge where schools can sign up to adopt a player, what good pr THAT WOUld be if say young kids could meet Jamie etc.

Cobblers Marketing Department at 12:29:30 Monday April 16 2001
Snooooooooooooooooore! Zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz!

Hartwell at 12:18:15 Monday April 16 2001
TRB Mark - well, I'm afraid that rather sums things up here, doesn't it? As I was saying earlier you don't always need a pot of money to develop marketing initiatives - you need a bit of ingenuity and al,so the desire to actually carry them out. Sadly we seem to be very short on both at Sixfields. There seem to be ten Saints shirts around the town for every Cobblers shirt these days, which also speaks volumes. Their gates are rising - they've had near on 10,000 several times this season - while ours are falling. Of course they are bankrolled by Mr Barwell and have a top class team, which makes a huge difference. But it doesn't stop us trying to get our marketing better - but we just don't seem to be awake to any possibilities, do we?

Anon at 12:11:32 Monday April 16 2001
S Beds Cobbler knows nothing about football finances judging by recent remarks nor the actual size of the pot needed to sustain a successful team. If he knows how 3,500 season ticket holders can somehow generate �2m a season we ought to have him on the board!

Anon at 12:2:25 Monday April 16 2001
How can anyone with any understanding of the game want to keep spedding?

Zimmy at 12:1:6 Monday April 16 2001
That's YOUR opinion and you are entitled to it Rodney. What I object to is the accusation of being neurologically challenged!

Rodney at 11:51:57 Monday April 16 2001
How can anyone in their right mind vote for Frain as player of the year? He missed half the season with injury and has hardly warranted his new two year contract. The only real contenders are Welch, Sampson, Hunt and Forrester. Hope deserves the most improved/young player of the year award. The only Cobbs players worth retaining for next season?: Welch, Sollitt, Sampson, Hope, Spedding, Hunt, Hunter, Forrester, Savage. Half the squad needs replacing. As for Marco Golo: you are the weakest link - financially- goodbye. Contrary to popular myth, he has a one year contract with a two year extention option. Can we afford to keep him? Half our fans love him, half think he's crap. Truth is somewhere in the middle, but he was NOT a good signing.

Two Ton Tess from Teddington at 11:27:19 Monday April 16 2001
Give me your Jamie Forrester and I will make a straight shooter out of him!

Benny at 11:26:17 Monday April 16 2001
What's this about Jamie and Ernie? Didn't Ernie drive a pretty swift milk cart? Perhaps it is some kind of speed traing that Ernie is helping Jamie with.

Dr Max Planck at 11:24:13 Monday April 16 2001
ME!

Ray at 11:13:59 Monday April 16 2001
No he isn't. Where did this rumour come from?

Plank at 11:8:59 Monday April 16 2001
Yes a run in the reserves would harm Jamie, he's in need of a hernia operation!

Anon at 10:17:36 Monday April 16 2001
...and how many have we scored in the last 5 games?

Anon at 9:34:0 Monday April 16 2001
Re Howard and knock downs. They've scored 5 in six games, one a pen and another an own goal. Hardly a conclusive argument methinks. Sod the knock downs, give me a goalscorer any day. And would a (additional) run out in the reserves do Jamie any harm?

Helpful Henry at 9:13:37 Monday April 16 2001
yeah. don't enter them sites.

Ray at 9:11:43 Monday April 16 2001
(1) Reload windows (2) reload Explorer - make sure you have 5.5 (3) upgrade your memory and/or video card. If the first doesnt work try the second etc.

HELP HELP HELP at 7:24:53 Monday April 16 2001
When entering certain sites i keep getting runtime errors can anyone please tell me how to stop this. CUM ON YOU COBBLERS

Ralph2 at 5:52:22 Monday April 16 2001
It was good to see others clapping Sollit off,he played a blinder.

the fat bastard from the swansea game at 5:20:45 Monday April 16 2001
on friday i came to relise that the songs sung buy many clubs are true the majority of cobblers fans only sing when we are winning. i like many others was very dissapointed about the cobblers defeat however the sick buger who ripped up their season ticket is just completely out of order we aren't being relegated we aren't being premoted i know but and not a bloody yo yo club we are a mid tableclub which is very good its bettewr than the bloody dimonds anyway. if anybody who reads this message who booed the players of or have insulted wilson should think again. I am going to stick by him as are all my mates i'll stick by the players as but if you don't want to those two very simple thing then as far as me my friends and whole load of other people you aren't fit to watch football at sixfields and call yourself a FAN- Disapointed and raged cobbler

DavCobbler at 0:44:5 Monday April 16 2001
"Hic" eeeeerrrrrrrrrr I`ll have a pint of whatever Dens been on please !!!!! Cya`s at Rovrum......C`mon you Town !!!!!!!!

what are you on (about) at 0:5:22 Monday April 16 2001
Den did you get your drugs from the Higham Cobbler?

South beds cobbler. at 23:50:48 Sunday April 15 2001
Time has come again to to stand proud as a Cobblers fan,Troubled times might be upon us , stuff the consortium it is us the fans who are the only hope to get the club up to the possision a town of our size deserves 1st div! any club who can boast 3500 season ticket holders, can for themselves, raise capital enough to finance a promotion push without to much assistance from a well meaning but skint boardroom. I have several ideas which i will explain fully when the consortium is finaly dead in the water, and im not so tired and emotional(drunk)I love all you guys, keep the faith!

Que? at 23:43:18 Sunday April 15 2001
That's the first posting I've fully understood for bloody ages Den.

Anon at 23:35:4 Sunday April 15 2001
Needless to say . . .

Chris W at 23:25:9 Sunday April 15 2001
OK - according to Rotherham's website, �12 adults/�8 kids.

Chris W at 23:15:31 Sunday April 15 2001
Anyway you don't need a ticket, just pay on the turnstile.

Chris W at 23:14:25 Sunday April 15 2001
About �10 - �15 I should think.

Chris W at 23:12:22 Sunday April 15 2001
Don't know Matt.

matt at 23:9:10 Sunday April 15 2001
how much are rotheram tickets?

Chris W at 23:7:18 Sunday April 15 2001
Den - what are you on about??

Den at 22:59:50 Sunday April 15 2001
It was later for football in Rotherham that a stadium was such that it didn't realise anything like it's true possible fluent tactical switch from a back four with standing terraces for mostly Dean Court from a retrospective case like that of Sixfields.

Wizz at 22:55:7 Sunday April 15 2001
ChrisW - What would you like to see on Match Days?

Chris W at 22:53:51 Sunday April 15 2001
Anyone thought about asking kids that currently attend matches what they would like to see introduced into Sixfields on a matchday? They may bring a few mates along with them then. Everyone is coming on here saying we should do this or that - why not actually ask the kids? Get the club into schools and ask kids there aswell.

Ralph at 22:50:18 Sunday April 15 2001
Those Christmas cards were really excellent TRB.

matt at 22:47:26 Sunday April 15 2001
how much are rotheram tickets? please email and tell me

TRB Mark at 22:13:56 Sunday April 15 2001
If you bought Waloc, read my letter about the Christmas card. Here was a peice of merchandise with a high profit margin (but still cheap to buy) that sent out a proffessional image of the club to people who wern't neccesarily fans and "the club" blew it! Jeez, I even took the financial risk of trying and testing it! Steve, I think the face painting is a great idea. Just charge a face painter a concession fee and let them get on with it. It will add to the atmosphere and visual aspect of the day. Why not get a few balloons printed up with NTFC on them. It costs peanuts and quite often if the kids drag the parents to the club shop, the parents end up buying a pricier item. The kids might like Clarence,but a a parent , I think he is a ple of crap and would'nt buy anything for my kids with him on. If you are going to merchandise, then at least ensure the product is relevant in the first place.That's what you get when you let kids do what is a professional job. On the point of the Saints, they have done a great job with thier PR and it seems to be paying off if the amount of Saints shirts in evidence in the eastern half of the county is anything to go by.

Ray at 21:48:15 Sunday April 15 2001
What is the Higham Cobbler on? I didn't understand a word of that posting.

Ray at 21:46:45 Sunday April 15 2001
.....and I'm afraid I don't recognise the email address given by Clarence the Dragon PR....

Ray at 21:44:59 Sunday April 15 2001
I'm surprised there has been no response to filling in the form although if it has been recently it may be because the mail goes to Eric who is currently in hospital and it isnt being dealt with in his absence. Can you complete th eform again please MK7 Cobbler and I'll make sure its dealt with.

Ralph2 at 21:29:33 Sunday April 15 2001
1,Sampson ,2Forrester ,3 Welsh.

higham cobbler at 21:22:45 Sunday April 15 2001
sat what a bad sportmanship by the ref i think that he missed severl points of the game the ref asst was not sharp in responce to the intimedation of the throwin by our side i know it just a game but come on side try and connect the ball into net and take it dont sit on it to pass boot it in

yorkshire cobbler at 21:22:39 Sunday April 15 2001
1) sampson 2) frain 3) welsh.

Clarence The Dragons PR at 21:13:23 Sunday April 15 2001
MK7 Cobbler - when did you sign them up, I might have the answer as to why. Email me and I'll see if I can sort something out

MK7 Cobbler at 20:54:59 Sunday April 15 2001
Talk about the Marketing. I have two young daughters (4 and 3) and have twice tried to sign them up for membership for the Clarence club via the club site. Both times I have had no response. Great marketing!

Anon at 20:47:31 Sunday April 15 2001
We also missed a golden opportunity in not capitalising on the two Wembley appearances.Another great display of ineptitude from those that run the club.

Hartwell at 20:13:30 Sunday April 15 2001
Steve and Billy - yes, a fair and thought-provoking message. It is a sad fact that football in general, and the Cobblers in particular, do not do anything like enough to woo the casual fan. It isn't always a case of needing loads of money to do so - a bit of ingenuity and lateral thinking can work wonders. One of the first - and most successful - attempts at introducing good PR and marketiong techniques into football came from Jimmy Hill while he was manager at Coventry City. However, you can't make a silk purse out of a sow's ear. You have to have a credible product in the first place. The Saints are a case in point. They certainly work hard at attracting new fans and by the look of their gates this season the efforts have borne rich rewards. But of course Keith Barwell has bankrolled them and enabled them to first make the product worthy of watching. A club that is able to generate success on the pitch can then ride on this to further promote and develop its fan base using marketing opportunities. But when the product in the shop window is as dire as it has been at Sixfields these past few weeks, there's nothing to build on, even if you have the imagination and some spare cash to invest in marketing.

JDTNTFC at 19:47:23 Sunday April 15 2001
Stewpot-Violence is every where in modern society, unfortunatly. It is not just confined to football if I thought about the threat of violence in that sense I wouldnt go anywhere. Im not trying to justify hooliganism, but it has always been a part of football and always will be. On a brighter matter it looks like the direones are having their usual end of season jitters, he he. UTC!!!FTP!!!!FTD!!!!COME ON YEOVIL!!!!!

Ralph at 19:40:0 Sunday April 15 2001
1) Welch 2) Forrester 3) Howard

RW at 19:14:30 Sunday April 15 2001
I'm thinking about the same billy but Forrester's form has dropped off so much lately

billy at 19:9:13 Sunday April 15 2001
I voted for Sammo, Hunt and Forrester - in that order

RW at 18:56:11 Sunday April 15 2001
Anyone else having a job trying to pick 3 players for the cronic error player of the year

Spooner at 18:38:33 Sunday April 15 2001
Sadly Stwepot, you still get these arseholes. I've seen opposition fans from Oxford, Luton goading Cobblers fans. Don't know what goes through their minds and I'm sure theres some Cobblers fans of the same ilk.

RW at 18:15:39 Sunday April 15 2001
I agree Stewpot it should be a family day out

Stewpot at 18:11:39 Sunday April 15 2001
Yesterday I found a down side to this Internet world. One of my younger brothers showed me a website called Football Hooligan.net and reading through the lines it made disturbing reading and the pictures almost made me sick and I dont like to say it but there are a few Northampton fans loitering in there giving off the wrong signals and at a forthcoming away fixture. I am not advertising this site but would be interested in views on the above matter. Why we cant all sit and cheer on our boys in Claret without having thoughts of violence in the back of our minds I will never know what a pity.

R.W. at 17:35:48 Sunday April 15 2001
I think kids would like face painting or balloons but don't know if it would attract new kids to come

Hotel Ender at 17:33:4 Sunday April 15 2001
Spooner - they held that competition back in 1985 at the old County Ground!

billy at 17:29:10 Sunday April 15 2001
Ok Chris W. - Clarence may not appeal to you or I, but what else would you suggest?

R.W. at 17:9:30 Sunday April 15 2001
Did Daryl Clare get signed up or is he still a "free" in the summer?

R.W. at 17:7:45 Sunday April 15 2001
Ray both my kids like Clarence when they come to a match.

Ray at 15:30:17 Sunday April 15 2001
Please spare a thought today on this, the 12th. anniversary of the Hillsborough disaster.

Graham at 15:22:28 Sunday April 15 2001
Yes - I saw Roy riding a bike out at Moulton the other day.

Spooner at 15:18:5 Sunday April 15 2001
Do you think we will see Hunter before the end of the season?

Spooner at 15:14:11 Sunday April 15 2001
why don't they do a competiton for kids where they get a meccano set free and whoever builds the best North stand wins...might get us a better stand as well

Ray at 15:13:24 Sunday April 15 2001
I think you would be surprised how popular Clarence is amongst the kids.

Chris W at 14:47:28 Sunday April 15 2001
Do you honestly think that the Clarence Club is the answer? A big, overstuffed, boring mascot that has very little to do with our town (as opposed to a shoe/boot) is about as original as family stands. Kids aint interested in him.

Jocky at 14:47:8 Sunday April 15 2001
c'mon Celtic!

Norman at 14:12:23 Sunday April 15 2001
Memememememem, nahnahnahnahnahnah, wopwopwopwopwopwopwopwop, shangshangshang-a-langa-a-dingdong!

oops at 13:46:19 Sunday April 15 2001
membership

Clarence The Dragon's PR at 13:36:59 Sunday April 15 2001
Memembership to the Clarence Club is free anyway.

billy at 13:27:35 Sunday April 15 2001
Steve. Good point - the club has always been behind the times as far as marketing is concerned, and we could certainly learn a thing or two from the Saints - they actually advertise about matches and have a shop in the Grosvenor. I guess it all comes down to money again, if we are struggling to pay the players wages there is no way the board are going to fork out for anything that may be viewed as unnecessary. I suppose the club could offer interested local entertainment groups a chance to do something in and around the ground, or even offer franchises for things like face painting. Not so sure that it would make a great deal of difference though because after all people come to watch the football, and if that is crap then they are less likely to come back. I dont know for sure but I would like to think that the Clarence Club provides something along the lines you suggested for the kids. Most children set their football affiliations by the time they are 7 or 8. So why dont the club send local kids a birthday card on their seventh birthday, with free membership to the Clarence Club / Junior supporters club and throw in a couple of match tickets - investing in the future so to speak.

Norman at 12:50:35 Sunday April 15 2001
Once I was down hearted, dissappointment was my only friend.

Gus at 12:49:49 Sunday April 15 2001
You are all besotted with youth! It is not the answer! We already have many young players in the side, Hope, Hunt, Spedding, Sollitt. I guess you want youth to come in in place of Frain, Gabbi, Whitley? You need a blend.

Lancaster Cobbler at 12:39:15 Sunday April 15 2001
Ray - true but we cannot pass judgement on stats without seeing what the players do. For instance Howard no goals from open play in 6 Luton games, but he is doing his job creating knock-ons for his strike partner. On your basis as JF has scored 1 goal in 16games, he would be dropped!!

Lancaster Cobbler at 12:36:46 Sunday April 15 2001
Hartwell - I think Hughes is not a second division right-back, and we know he can do a good job in a back three but whether or not he can play in a back four I am not sure, the signing of Dempsey though might be the end of him. Personally, I reckon we should ask nice Mr Wenger if we can loan Liam Chilvers for next season.

Norman at 12:36:15 Sunday April 15 2001
Why don't you be a man about it and set me free?

Craig at 12:34:38 Sunday April 15 2001
It comes to the club's biggest failure Steve, Marketing! This club have had no idea for decades and nothing will change of that I'm sure. Some excellent suggestions you come up with, at the Doc shop in Rushden I se they give away free balloons for away games.

Ray at 12:33:16 Sunday April 15 2001
Looking at the Tompson/Morrow debate, checking the reserves fixtures I see that they have scored 4 goals each. OK, the service they receive probably isn't the same as in a first team fixture but they are, after all, playing against what is, probably, inferior opposition. Why do you think they can make their mark in the first team?

TossPot at 12:30:50 Sunday April 15 2001
It looksh abshutlartly fine to meeee!

Steve at 12:29:54 Sunday April 15 2001
As a Cobblers fan for 34 years, the events of the past few weeks have provoked me into a lot of deep thinking. I like many others who come on this message board do not see myself as just a 'punter' who pays his money for a quick fix of entertainment to relieve the stresses of day to day life. If this was the case, you can be sure that I would have found an alternative pastime by now. This club is indeed very fortunate to have 3500 people who pay in advance for such an unreliable entertainment. In any other industry this is almost unheard and you can be assured that if a company gave such poor value for money they would certainly go out of business. I have written this in the hope that this does not happen. I, like many others have an affinity with this club, that when you see something so blatantly wrong, you feel you have to make a stand. Results, will naturally fluctuate, in what is a competetive sport, but the least you can expect is that those representing you club show the same passion that we supporters do in turning up week in, week out. I don't only mean the players! We continually hear how difficult it is for the Chairman and Directors to keep this club afloat, well I can tell them, it's damn difficult being a supporter when you are fed minimal information regarding potential takeovers, finances, and most importantly ambitions. I believe this club has to make radical changes both on and off the field in order to progress. Much has been written on this site recently, regarding atmosphere. All we have at the moment is a few records being played, and a man with a microphone. Well in this day and age this is nothing short of pathetic, and most certainly will not attract new paying customers, especially the young. I also belive that the atmosphere should start outside the ground. At the moment people trundle down the hill, perhaps buy a programme and then enter the ground. What's changed in fifty years? Times have! We need things going on outside well before kickoff, Music, Events, Promotions, Face Painting for the Kids, etc. What does the club do to promote a forthcoming match? It's no longer credible to expect people just to turn up, if it's a question of finances why these things are not done, all I can do is quote the old saying 'you have to speculate to accumulate'. I don't wish to sound all doom and gloom, but I feel if something isn't done soon, then it's down hill all the way. I also feel that this relevant not only to the Cobblers, but to many other clubs apart from the elite few. My worries though, are for MY club and that is what primarily concerns me and I know concerns many other loyal Cobblers fans. I haven't gone 'anon' on this, because I hope I can stimulate feedback, both on and off this site, therefore if any fan or indeed any official from the club wishes to contact me, I ould be delighted to hear from them. Lets go Forward!

Ray at 12:28:45 Sunday April 15 2001
Yes, to whoever commented. I had noticed the focus appears to have gone on CobblerCam. Earliest I can get to it is Tuesday I'm afraid.

Hartwell at 12:28:35 Sunday April 15 2001
Lancaster Cobbler - yes I entirely agree with you. Now is the time to find out if any of our youngsters are likely to cut the mustard. So far we've not seen enough of them, except for Hughes who I think might make it but not sure at what position. I'm not at all convinced about Morrow. As for Gould and Thompson, as you say, let's see them. Unless they are either injured or else Wilson's already made up his mind about them, I cannot understand why they are not being given a run - at least 60 mins or so. No good giving 'em ten mins at the end, which is what happens all too frequently here. I will be very disappointed if Wilson puts himself on again, though!

Norman at 12:28:19 Sunday April 15 2001
I love you and nobody else!

Graham at 12:27:22 Sunday April 15 2001
Trooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo!

Norman at 12:26:43 Sunday April 15 2001
Sugar pie, honey bunch, don't ever leave me!

Ray at 12:26:38 Sunday April 15 2001
Still 3500 tickets then?

Graham at 12:20:51 Sunday April 15 2001
Probably so Ray, but I am concerned that our rather stuttering form will deter any 'new' season ticket holders and may scare off the newly acquired ones. That leaves me, you and the moaners!

Ray at 12:9:48 Sunday April 15 2001
..andI suspect that that is the reason why the first "cut-off" date for the Season Tickets was brought forward

Allan at 12:1:57 Sunday April 15 2001
The close season is so vital to us. If Wilson/The Board dally around we will see the better 'free' transfers snapped up and we'll be left with nowt to add to the nowt we presently have. Backs to the walls chaps.

Anon at 11:54:5 Sunday April 15 2001
Correction: Howard 1 pen in six games.

Hemel Cobbler at 11:38:1 Sunday April 15 2001
Howard and Warner are hardly setting the world alight are they? I work with a gang of Luton fans and they're as split about him after 4 games as we were. He missed a sitter yesterday and has scored only from the penalty spot. Warner seems to have drifted away from the playing side of the game, which tends to support the view that he never really wanted it enough.

Zimmy at 11:31:14 Sunday April 15 2001
Word on the block is that Wilson will go with young fast players next season. If Wilson can negotiate with parents that they let the players stay up late for midweek games we could see Sunnyside lower make their debut in August.

Anon at 11:23:3 Sunday April 15 2001
Do you really think under Atkins that Broadhurst had much say?! Word on the block is that Cobblers are interested in David Farrell who is out of contract at the end of the season.

NTFC@2view at 11:4:27 Sunday April 15 2001
If 'The Messiah' Broadhurst were so good, how come we were relegated when he was Atkins' First Team Coach?

SEE THE COBB CAM at 10:39:38 Sunday April 15 2001
There are people on the pitch, They think the season is over, IT IS NOW!!!!!!!!!!!

Watcher at 10:35:32 Sunday April 15 2001
Looks like a training session going on at the mo'.

Anon at 10:32:59 Sunday April 15 2001
The forwards really are letting us down. How fit is Howey? Even if he is only 95% fit would it be worth giving him an hour or so up front if only for nusience value and hope Forrester and/or Gabbi can take advantage of some knockdowns? Only a thought, but desperate times calls for desperate measures.

Allan at 10:31:22 Sunday April 15 2001
Our paper boy is quick and young too, perhaps he should get his chance?

Lancaster Cobbler at 10:29:37 Sunday April 15 2001
Speaking about Crooks did he actually join Barnsley as there is no mention of him on Barnsley sites and according to soccerbase he has not played a game for them. Hartwell- that is why I reckon we should give Gould and Thompson a run as they are quick young players.

Hartwell at 10:16:24 Sunday April 15 2001
Lancaster Cobbler - yes, if only Marco was scoring tap-ins it would be fine. But sadly he spends far too much time back on the half-way line trying to rescue the ball. And that's the crux of the problem. Our midfield is so poor and we have no pace or penetration on the either wing, unless Hodge plays. That means players like Marco don't get anything worthwhile in the box and find themselves having to go back and dig the ball out. In Marco's case that's where his age shows. He cannot turn away from his marker quickly enough once he gets the ball and gets robbed. Then he starts to get irritated. Fact is, he was clearly a great player whose legs are beginning to go. Well, he's 34 and anyway, if he were that good we couldn't afford him. We have to accept that. I guess he'd still score goals in Div 3, where the pace and sharpness of tackling is just that bit less, and in a team that provided good balls into him in the box. Jamie, on the other hand, is the kind of player who is sharp and can turn half-chances into goals (when he's on form) and who can therefore succeed by feeding on scraps.

A Childs View at 9:58:26 Sunday April 15 2001
I struggled to find a decent 3rd centre half - hence Hope's inclusion - simply assume he's having one of his good games in my team!!

A Childs View at 9:55:51 Sunday April 15 2001
Its odd isn't it - Willo gets promotion in his first season as manager (after a 10 game handicap!!) and is likely to give us a midtable finish this year - surely that record isn't to bad? On paper its a fine achievement, however, football is about current form and ours is obviously worrying a few people! The stats below prepared by anon are very interesting!! As for the Broadhurst as tactical genius theory - I'm not so sure it holds up, it could of course just be a coincidence that he left when the form began to downturn. He's hardly set the world alight elsewhere has he? I suggest the club let the fans pick the team and the tactics via an elaborate pre-match voting system!! All fans could be sent details of the opposition, available players, match conditions etc etc and then vote on which players and system is used!! I don't think we'd do too bad a job, football isn't magic - its just common sense and confidence. I'm fearful about the Rotherham game, they are the best I've seen this year. Based on the players we've had at the club this season, this would be my team for that game (532) - Welch, Chilvers, Sammo, Green, Hope, Nicko, Hunt, Crooks, Savage, Howard & Forrester. Best of the bunch to my mind - any views???

Predictor at 9:10:43 Sunday April 15 2001
I was very naughty and went round on friday saying we were gonna lose against cambridge but by some miracle we were gonna beat rotherham. I got the first bit right. At least we should get something against Colchester, they've got woody in goal.

Janine at 2:54:40 Sunday April 15 2001
does anyone know where i can get any cobblers realted ringtones for my mobile?????if so please email me

Ralph2 at 0:30:29 Sunday April 15 2001
Dav Cobbler,not to worry,catch you another time mate.

Steph at 23:54:36 Saturday April 14 2001
Does anyone know if all the Bournmuff tickets went?

Gricer at 23:50:48 Saturday April 14 2001
Shipping Forecast is on soon.

Greg at 23:48:43 Saturday April 14 2001
I'm a Harry Potter man meself!

George O at 23:47:25 Saturday April 14 2001
Yus Gus, but some are MORE equal than others!

Gus at 23:46:50 Saturday April 14 2001
Whaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaat is going on? I thought we were all equal?

Grant at 23:46:1 Saturday April 14 2001
For ANON = Ray!

Gordon at 23:35:47 Saturday April 14 2001
ANON - You are not even close mush! Mind you I wish I could play guitar like him!

Anon at 23:25:47 Saturday April 14 2001
Gordon = Big Roy

Gordon at 23:16:31 Saturday April 14 2001
I have to confess to having a soft spot for Ian Atkins too. He once bought me a drink!

Andy at 23:6:28 Saturday April 14 2001
Now there's a first. Gus actually misses Atkins. I think Kev Wilson is totally optamitisic, and he's been slagged off on here because of it. Talking of Atkins, he's showed where his skill lies, Carlisle look safe this year and good for him. Let's hope we don't need his abilities again.

Anon at 23:6:23 Saturday April 14 2001
Since Kevan left on 2nd. November, excluding cup games, we have played 28, W7 D9 L12 - a ratio of 35%. Before he left we played 14, W6 D3 L5 - a ratio of 50%. 50 % over a season adds up to 69 points and 35% over a season adds up to 48 points.

Spooner at 22:58:15 Saturday April 14 2001
have I been watching the same Savage this season? Savage is like the period..only comes on once a month!

Gayle at 22:56:34 Saturday April 14 2001
Name names mr spoon. Who can we get who is better than Sewage for less wages?

Gareth at 22:55:16 Saturday April 14 2001
I hope you are all clicking on to Cobbler Cam? It earns the club mooney. Thank you.

Spooner at 22:53:52 Saturday April 14 2001
its just an opinion....Sav is on a good wage and I'd have Hunt (good at breaking up the play) and Hunter in centre mid. I think we could get someone better than Savage on a Bosman for less money

Gavin at 22:51:27 Saturday April 14 2001
Why should we worry if Hughes and Morrow have a part-time bar job in Barratt's spoon? They have to make ends meet like the rest of us!

Gayle at 22:50:0 Saturday April 14 2001
Blimey spooner, think about it for a minute will ya! Savage, delicate ball playing, dribbler and master of the ghosted run. Hunter, sleeves rolled up, wide eyed, foaming at the mouth, biting legs and driving a furrow from goalmouth to goalmouth. Oh yeah I can see the similarity.

Spooner at 22:48:34 Saturday April 14 2001
By the way Hughes and Morrow left Barratts at 4.30 on Friday afternoon

Ged at 22:47:10 Saturday April 14 2001
Explain your reasoning Spooner.

Gus at 22:46:36 Saturday April 14 2001
We need a change. I miss Atkins optimism, Willo is so downbeat. He never stirs my emotions, Atkins could always stir up a bit of controversy and sell a few more tickets.

Spooner at 22:45:54 Saturday April 14 2001
Iget the feeling that if Hunter makes a comeback then Savage won't be next season.

Lancaster Cobbler at 22:44:56 Saturday April 14 2001
I do fear though Allan taht even if Hunter is given all the clear that cyncial teams may well target him because of his problems and just hack him down all the time, although the re=signing of Frain is ominous, I know he what has done, but he is useless, we do need a cpatain who communicates like Razor!

Ged at 22:44:32 Saturday April 14 2001
I hear Bosman is available on a Bosman. I think he is a midfielder though.

Gordon at 22:43:30 Saturday April 14 2001
Gould looked okay whenever I have seen him. Don't get too excited over Thompson, he is very raw and it will be a while yet before he can make an impact.

Lancaster Cobbler at 22:42:37 Saturday April 14 2001
I did not mean together! We do need central defenders in though, we only have Sammo, Hope contracted next season and Green is off, Ferguson has not featured, oh dear, oh dear. There better by some decent Bosmans available or we are up the creek without a paddle.,

Allan at 22:41:40 Saturday April 14 2001
Ah at least we agree on something LC, Roy Hunter! I just pray he can make a comeback.

Gavin at 22:40:8 Saturday April 14 2001
You make I larf! Dryden and Hughes in the centre of defence? Forget playing the direones, with team selection like that we will probably pass them on the way down and be playing Kettering before we play them!

Lancaster Cobbler at 22:39:54 Saturday April 14 2001
Hopefully, it is more a case of Wilson waiting on possible Bosman ins, we know he is keen on Lavin. Also the guy who we had from Wolves on trial Steeve Eppesse-Titi; is apparantly doing very well for Exeter!! Also I expect the fitness of Hunter and Howey will change decisions, if Hunter looks like his former self it will be like a new signing. I think Howey will be shown the door as he is an ageing defender, also Dobson played a few times for Forest Green and is not even in the conference now.

Gerry at 22:37:42 Saturday April 14 2001
Someone asked earlier, if not Wilson who? Well I can think of someone straight away that has about the same managerial experience that Wilson had when he was appointed. The big difference is this bloke knows the club, the fans love him, the players and the board respect him. RAZOR will do nicely thank you.

Allan at 22:34:19 Saturday April 14 2001
That's what worries me, he SHOULD know who is going and who is out of contract. How many more players are we going to just miss out on? Forget the bloody consortium, if it does become a reality Wilson will probably be on his way anyhow. I cannot see Wilson staying and managing a side that has to play players to 'feed' the Italians. Mark my words they will have to have their own man in the hot seat otherswise it will not work.

Lancaster Cobbler at 22:32:36 Saturday April 14 2001
Allan - I can see where u r coming from, maybe more true is we were palying 5-3-2 when Dryden was playing and we had wing-backs who could attack and the Jamie - Howard combo. Luton have stopped leakign goals though since Dryden came.

Lancaster Cobbler at 22:29:11 Saturday April 14 2001
Wilson does not even probably now his budget next season - how is he meant to plan, if the consortium goes ahead he will have some money, if not he has to make do at the moment on 14 contracted players, that is all we have at the moment. There are god knows still out of contract and Gould and Thompson have not been given a chance to prove themselves - do we want to let them go without giving thema chance and then see them prosper elsewhere?

Allan at 22:26:8 Saturday April 14 2001
Sorry to keep disagreeing people, but the very first time I saw Dryden I thought he was pregnant! I've seen him several times since and nothing has changed my opinion of him. We got rid of him, Swindon got rid of him and he's no playing for a team that's getting relegated. What a top choice for central defence!

Allan at 22:23:39 Saturday April 14 2001
Nothing like blooding the kids in a struggling, losing side. The moaners would have a field day! Think about it guys, why should they have to come in and clear up the mess created by senior professionals? If Wilson doesn't know by now who to keep and who to jettison then we are in the crappo.

Lancaster Cobbler at 22:20:30 Saturday April 14 2001
Spooner - fair point, but Dryden is a couple of years younger and has played far less games, hence his has more legs left

Andy at 22:17:22 Saturday April 14 2001
Anon again, how does guiding a side from mid table div 3 to mid table div 2 in 1 year with the smallest squad in the divison and no money mean a lack of tactical knowledge? Our biggest danger is losing Kev Wilson to another club with more potential and cash. Then what? And Hannah - spot on

Spooner at 22:8:58 Saturday April 14 2001
why sign Dryden if we're getting shot of Richard Green cos of his age?

JDTNTFC at 21:56:30 Saturday April 14 2001
Alright then, if we sack wilson just who are we going to get to replace him? Kevin Wilson and the team have still got my support. UTC!!!FTP!!!FTD!!!

Anon again at 21:49:27 Saturday April 14 2001
Can someone Please publish Wilson's performance for this season.Then challenge Wilson to justify at the AGM why he should be kept on as manager.He cannot just blame it on the weather,the ref etc. as he so pathetically does every week after the match. He should be man enough sometimes to admit that his lack of tactical knowledge is often the reason.

Chris W at 21:44:27 Saturday April 14 2001
OK look - we are on a bad run, but there is no need for the hysterics being spouted out on here. Ryman league for f*cks sake? Sack Wilson? Sack the board? Give it a rest for God's sake. PS. We don't even geographically qualify for the Ryman league, so up yours mate. UTC...FTP.

Hannah at 21:39:58 Saturday April 14 2001
Yeah, we are going through a bad patch, but then so do all clubs. I think we are too quick at pointing the finger and blaming others. I know that it is their job, but at the end of the day, we are only a division 2 side, we only got promoted last season and we have no money, so what do you expect???? Its frustrating i know, but we have to stick with it and cheer them along even more than usual, help them regain their confidence.

DavCobbler at 21:37:40 Saturday April 14 2001
Cheers Chris.......I was in there and didn`t see anything??Maybe I had just left by then or maybe I should keep of the Stella huh? :-))

Lancaster Cobbler at 21:31:19 Saturday April 14 2001
Gomez I am only basing my statements on facts - we had our best spell when Dryden played, and when playing in a back three at Wigan Hughes looked very good - I am not the only fan to share this opinion. We only let in 7 goals in the 10 games Dryden was on the pitch In the last 10 we have let in 15 goals. Am I still mad???

Gomez at 21:23:43 Saturday April 14 2001
You don't 'alf talk some b*ll*ks Lancaster Cobbler. Sign Dryden indeed, Hughes a good centre back? Oh dear. I'd worry about any teams defence with you as manager :-)

BARTON BOY at 21:21:15 Saturday April 14 2001
Like many cobblers fans I am in despair with the team{sorry) since WILSON SACKED the assistant manager because he had more knowledge of football than he had- or ever will have.With the club run by a group of directors who are totally unable to negotiate with the police- organise the parking for their own fans and give 2 year contracts to their elderly friends ( from Birmingham/Walsall of course). Our only hope is that someone buys the club and does a major clear out or we will be in the conference or Ryman league soon.All football managers and players should be payed by their performance only.Wilson should go for a very long walk, very soon.PLEASE.

BARTON BOY at 21:20:6 Saturday April 14 2001
Like many cobblers fans I am in despair with the team{sorry) since WILSON SACKED the assistant manager because he had more knowledge of football than he had- or ever will have.With the club run by a group of directors who are totally unable to negotiate with the police- organise the parking for their own fans and give 2 year contracts to their elderly friends ( from Birmingham/Walsall of course). Our only hope is that someone buys the club and does a major clear out or we will be in the conference or Ryman league soon.All football managers and players should be payed by their performance only.Wilson should go for a very long walk, very soon.PLEASE.

Chris W at 21:18:5 Saturday April 14 2001
DavCobbler - the trouble was before the game, at about 7.30ish, when the North Stand lot were p*ssed up and singing. This bloke came over and started shouting his mouth off that he was Cambridge, and he basically got sh*t kicked out of him.

Lancaster Cobbler at 20:48:33 Saturday April 14 2001
Whoops, did not mean to repeat myself - speaking about Mr "Zimmer" Frain, maybe the whole reason he is on a two year contract is that he will is being eyed up as a coach with Gabbas??? Rotherham have won 8 in a row at home, knowing the Cobblers will we beat them (Nurse Help I need my medication!!_

Lancaster Cobbler at 20:45:47 Saturday April 14 2001
I also think that it might be wise to pick up Dryden in the summer on a free. My mate who is a Luton fan is well impressed with him. Not good to watch but effective

Lancaster Cobbler at 20:45:25 Saturday April 14 2001
Yep Romsey Cobbler that is my feeling, I think as well Garry Hughes has been harshly dealt with, he looked an excellent centre-back, he then had to play out of position and lost confidence thanks to the boo-boys.

Lancaster Cobbler at 20:45:13 Saturday April 14 2001
Yep Romsey Cobbler that is my feeling, I think as well Garry Hughes has been harshly dealt with, he looked an excellent centre-back, he then had to play out of position and lost confidence thanks to the boo-boys. I also think that it might be wise to pick up Dryden in the summer on a free. My mate who is a Luton fan is well impressed with him. Not good to watch but effective

The Romsey Cobbler at 20:39:58 Saturday April 14 2001
I'm with the Lancaster Cobbler. Let's get the kids in the side and give them some experience so that Kevin Wilson knows whom to keep and whom to let go.

Trouble at 20:32:7 Saturday April 14 2001
.........

DavCobbler at 20:30:32 Saturday April 14 2001
When was this truoble in Chevvy`s then? Before or after the game? I was there both times and didn`t see a thing?????

south. beds cobbler at 20:28:4 Saturday April 14 2001
went along to watch Luton ,v oldham, my man of match was Howard, he even lasted 90 mins putting him self about realy well,Oldhams carlo C, was kept quiet, dryden had a good game looked solid, Luton also had ovendale in goal.Comparing these two sides to last nights farce, I so glad we picked up points early season, or it could of been Yeovil here we come ,

ntfc abroad at 19:54:41 Saturday April 14 2001
can anybody tell me the scores on saturday?

Lancaster Cobbler at 19:54:32 Saturday April 14 2001
Allan - what you would rather have a team with a lot of players past it losing , or a team with a couple of young-uns who mighy just do the business, teams who have faith in their young players will do well. Anyway, the only major surgery is playing Gould Thompson and Dempsey.

Lancaster Cobbler at 19:54:15 Saturday April 14 2001
At least Dempesy is a right-back and bya ll accounts Gould did well in the LDV game - also this team gives us width which we currently lack with too many defensive midfielders. Or am I talking Cobblers here?

Gerry at 19:39:29 Saturday April 14 2001
Looking forward to seeing QPR, Tranmere, Crystal Palace, Brighton and Cardiff up here next season. They should all take up their 'new' quota of tickets along with Stoke and a few others. They'll be more of them than us!

Gavin at 19:37:22 Saturday April 14 2001
Whose going to Rotherham then? We never beat them. Good ground for train spotting though.

Gordon at 19:35:57 Saturday April 14 2001
Yeah, it wasn't just the old Atkins stuff, there was ba bit more to it.

Gary at 19:34:56 Saturday April 14 2001
That was what was so admirable about Cambridge, Beck has marshalled into a well organised team. You could see their strategy at corners, free-kicks and throw-ins. It was not ALL long ball and when it was it wasn't just hit and hope. Their style will serve them well and will get points more often than not.

Graham at 19:30:21 Saturday April 14 2001
DISGRACE - In answer to your question, 'what do coaches do with players?' They take them to and from away matches. Hope this helps.

Allan at 19:28:29 Saturday April 14 2001
Apologies!

Anon at 19:26:49 Saturday April 14 2001
It's probably 'Zimmer' still trying to latch on to a through ball from 'Sewage'!

Greg at 19:25:35 Saturday April 14 2001
Someone is walking up the touchline!

A Childs View at 19:21:40 Saturday April 14 2001
I'm not bloody Martin Williams - I doubt I've ever agreed with him over anything of a footballing nature! It all started with that clear cut penalty against the Cobblers at Wycombe on the opening day of the season! I have to concede though, you are probably right about Warner - if he really had it I'd like to think someone else would have given him the chance we never did!

Disgrace at 19:21:16 Saturday April 14 2001
What the hell do the coaches do with the players?? We have absolutely no tactical nouse, can't find a player to receive the ball from a throw-in and quick free kicks that go straight to the opposition. Strikers who are scared to shoot. We have seen how much we miss Steve Howard from both the height and 'blood and thunder' attitude. We will cetainly be relegated next season unless we inject at least six good players - with height as someone mentioned below (assuming that we survive this season!!). I am pround to admit tht I left with about 6 minutes to go... I would do the same at Sainsburys if the checkout girl started taking the piss out of me or if I had to wait for 30 minutes before the barman came out to pull the first pint. If I went to an opera and found out that Marco Gabbiadini was playing the part of Madam Butterfly I would also leave post-haste....so what's different about football? Not paying Stevies wage request will soon appear as a greater cash burden as 500 plus supporters vote with their feet (�7500 per week plus).

CobblerCam Focus at 19:21:2 Saturday April 14 2001
Ray - is there any reason why the focus on CobblerCam has become blurred?

Allan at 19:14:21 Saturday April 14 2001
F**k me NOT Micky Bloody Warner again! It's becoming a myth! I do not doubt the bloke had talent BUT he never delivered. Like many of our current side he is too easily knocked off the ball and does not show the desire nor aggression needed at this level. Good luck to Micky Warner and I hope he does well for Farnborough, but I suggest he is playing at the right level for him. Let it rest, please!

Wilson Out!! at 19:13:48 Saturday April 14 2001
Kevin Wilson has to go if we are going to get into the 1st division. He should go while he is still respected by our fans. We need a manager with good tactical knowledge and with experience of management at this level and in the 1st division as well.

tom watts at 19:12:26 Saturday April 14 2001
right i was in chevys and the bloke deserved it. i didnt get invovled by the way before you have a dig at me! everyone was drunk and singing and dancing then this man decides to start some cambridge songs every1 reacted and because of the booze starting fighting! but the man even when violence was iminent still sang cambrigde songs.

Allan at 19:9:43 Saturday April 14 2001
That's rich coming from you MW, could we afford to let Howard go!!!!! You and your cronies were probably part of the reason why he decided to take the filthy lucre and run! Turncoat!

Allan at 19:7:12 Saturday April 14 2001
If that is the side you reckon we should put out Lancater Cobbler then you can reimburse me for the remaining games. I pay to watch the first team, not the reserves!

A Childs View at 18:49:12 Saturday April 14 2001
Mixed views about last nights debacle on here - personally I struggle to find anything positive in the display (apart from Sollitt who should have won Man of the Match)! I'm gonna have a moan about a number of things. 1) Why didn't we get Kevin Nicholson signed up? He's obviously got ability and gave the team some balance and offensive threat down the left. You can't blame the lad for going to County if we delayed putting an offer on the table! Jamie has proved to be an investment that we'll get a return on, Nicko would also have made us a few quid. Would his wages have been much more than Dempseys and Lopes??? 2) Can we afford to have let Steve Howard go? We've got two short skilful strikers - we can supply them in two ways. Firstly we could spend lots of money on 8 consummate footballers to play behind them so as we create clear cut chances for them to finish ie, the prolific Gabbi in the Darlo side - they were all very good footballers, created the chances and he simply knocked them in!! Based on our finances this isn't an option! Alternatively we can use a big target man and go for the classic lower division 'Big Man, Little Man' combination - this is much cheaper and indeed something we've used to good effect! Jamie understands this and is quoted a being very upset at the loss of Stevie. Also, why strike a deal that lets Luton get away with the extra �25k if they get relegated - far too big a risk for cash strapped Cobblers I'd say. 3) John Frain is a great man, bringer of the greatest moment of joy for the majority of Cobblers fans - but why sign him on a 2 year deal when he is beginning to look a little slow? 6 month contract anyone? Incentivise things a little!! 4)Why is Richard Hope fantastic for a few games and then turns in some shocking displays? It was Hopey who tried to foul the Cambridge player who was through on goal - I also blame him for Cambridge's second, he was shouting at Spedding to pick up a bloke in the centre whilst he himself was more than 15 yards away from any Cambridge player!! Check it out on Sky!! Its this lack of consistency that has created the 'Yo-Yo Green situation.' Make your mind up Hopey, are you the business or not?? 5) Are the board genuinely exploring the possibility of the Italian Job? In the absence of meaningful press releases from the club I'm finding it difficult to formulate a sensible view about the possible takeover - at the end of the day, money talks and if the Italians have more of it they should be given a chance. I hate being cynical, so I challenge the board to post the clubs reports and accounts on the official site - this should show how much each director contributes and, if they do 'dip in to their own pockets' as much as is claimed, I'll gladly apologise and give them my unreserved support. It'll also allow fans to formulate a sensible view about the effectiveness of our commercial activities, player wages etc etc. 6) Is it sensible to ask fans to part with money for next season before this one has even finished? I fear this could back fire - we are not playing well at the moment (4 wins in nearly 20 games - not a good advert!!) and fans may just be thinking, "We've got no money, the Italians aren't being allowed to play with us, Jamie and Hunty will have to be sold so who is going to be worth watching next year?" I wonder if its precisely because we will need to sell the best of our players over the close season that the board want to get the money in now!! That said, if solvency needs to be maintained the players will have to be sold - its as simple as that!! I've mentioned it before on here, if things are that tight why has the clubs expenditure been allowed to continue at the level it has? Should I believe what I read on the back page of the Chron or what TCMP says on the above link? The forthcoming AGM on 26 April is going to be VERY interesting!! Can we expect any more details about the 'Italian Job' at this stage? TCMP - are you in a position that would allow you to share with us what the deal could entail? Oh yeah, my usual moans - why did we release Micky Warner and it remains an outrage that Ray Warburton was allowed to go - still, good to see him knock a goal in for Hereford today - proof indeed that he remains Cobblers at heart!! Uncertain times at the minute I'm afraid - still, what else is there to do on a Saturday?

Lancaster Cobbler at 18:39:32 Saturday April 14 2001
Well as we are looking as if we are going to lose all the remaining games, i say change the team: 4-4-2 Sollitt; Spedding, Hope, sammo, Dempsey; Gould, Hunt, Savage, Hodge; Forrester, Thompson or play 5-3-2 with Savvo as wing back and paly Hughs instead of Dempsey

Cobber at 18:39:25 Saturday April 14 2001
Bombat potatoes? I think you are getting mixed up with that well known favourite dish of CDU's, Wombat potatoes! Prime King Edwards shoved up the backside of a Wombat for 48 hours until browned, then liberally doused with eucalyptus oil.

MMMMMmmmmmmmmm! at 18:36:41 Saturday April 14 2001
That's got be taste bud secreting! I think I'll have 2 poppadoms and the pickles, mixed kebab, lamb makhanwala, egg fried rice, bombat potatoes, mushroom bhajje and a garlic nan. Oh and just like my friend here I'll go for a pint of Kingfisher.

Peckish at 18:29:38 Saturday April 14 2001
I'd like to start with a Nargi Kebab, then chicken tikka Jalfrezi, mushroom pilau, sag bhajee and a peshwaree nan please. And a pint of kingfisher, thank you.

:0( at 17:19:18 Saturday April 14 2001
Luton will do a Brentford.

Rachel C at 17:18:24 Saturday April 14 2001
You know when KW said he wanted to get to 54 points, he didn't mean get there and stop!!

Lancaster Cobbler at 17:10:36 Saturday April 14 2001
Well it looks as if it will be bye bye luton

Hotel Ender at 16:47:15 Saturday April 14 2001
Russell Slade will be going to Barnsley at the end of the season.

ConcernedCobb at 16:46:33 Saturday April 14 2001
Even worse in my opinion is the fact that the eternal enemy go above us if they maintain their current winning status.........The end of the world is nigh!!!

Paul at 16:44:45 Saturday April 14 2001
And Heggs scores for Carlisle to put them 1-0 up... man, what a day!

Chris W at 16:44:22 Saturday April 14 2001
Does anyone definitely know whether or not you need to pass a credit check to pay by instalments? Ray - you said that you'd ask the club and then post on here, so do you have any info yet?

Paul at 16:43:41 Saturday April 14 2001
Bristol Rovers 1-0 up, and Wycombe loosing... what is it they say about it being a funny old game?

COUNTY COBBLER at 16:42:40 Saturday April 14 2001
The main point is the current TREND.Result wise the Trend since Xmas is getting worse.Financially the Trend is larger debts, similar to McRitchie proportions,surely the only option Mr. Stonhill is to sell the club immediately to somebody who can inject capital!!Do nothing and relagation is inevitable.

Paul at 16:42:32 Saturday April 14 2001
Yeovil 6-1 UP! YAY!!!!!!!

Anon at 16:35:0 Saturday April 14 2001
5-1 to yeovil!!!

:0( at 16:34:9 Saturday April 14 2001
shit on Artlenock all you like

TRB Mark at 16:32:19 Saturday April 14 2001
Right, time to tek me dug for his daily dump down diamonds.

TRB Mark at 16:31:29 Saturday April 14 2001
Chris, we could probably argue about this all day and neither of us would be right or wrong. I too believe that singing is about sponteneity which is why the right song needs to be sung at the right time to ensure maximum participation. Singing about f***ing the posh when we get a corner, for instance , isn't much help. Re the fight. I got my info from someone who was involved although the geezer doing the goading looked serious and I did'nt recognise him and as you say, why bother?

Anon at 16:28:20 Saturday April 14 2001
no PISH winning

4-1 to the Yeovil boys at 16:25:53 Saturday April 14 2001
.........

Chris W at 16:23:17 Saturday April 14 2001
FAO TRB Mark: I can understand Cobblers fans not wanting to associate themselves with the anti-Republican chants coming from the north stand, but nobody was associating themselves with ANY songs last night. Surely a chant of "Northampton" can occur without any need for "finding the right time", but the North Stand couldn't even sing this. Yes there were a lot of drunk people in there last night (after aall it was Good Friday!), but surely this can only add to the atmosphere. I just feel that we have a responsibility, as fans, to get behind the team irrespective of what is happening on the pitch, without the need for coordination or finding the right time. Surely football crowds are all about spontaneity, not organisation or planning. Finally, why would a Cobblers fan want to come and goad other Northampton fans (eg. in Chevys)? After all, he did get a kicking - so why would he do this (I AM NOT CONDONING THIS BY THE WAY!)?

Paul at 16:12:38 Saturday April 14 2001
Who remembers Brentford last season? They had come up from the third Division in the 3rd Automatic promotion spot. They started the season well, and with half the season gone, they were in / on the edge of the Playoffs. Then, they started having some disasterous results... and soon fell back to mid table.... they finished just below mid table. Is anyone getiing De-ja-vous?

:0( at 16:11:45 Saturday April 14 2001
come on the Leigh. If we can't get no pionts today i don't want the Yeovil too either

Yeovil 3-1 UP!!!!!!!!!!!!!! at 16:9:55 Saturday April 14 2001
YAY!

Anon at 16:8:33 Saturday April 14 2001
Yeovil in the lead again!!

Lancaster Cobbler at 16:4:44 Saturday April 14 2001
not just at home, last results 0-1;0-1;0-1.0-3

:0( at 15:55:59 Saturday April 14 2001
You never play well at the Millers tho?

Ray at 15:53:12 Saturday April 14 2001
.......probably win, lose or draw.

Ray at 15:52:43 Saturday April 14 2001
I can see us going to Rotherham on Monday and getting some kind of result.....

Anon at 15:50:18 Saturday April 14 2001
Yeovil now drawing

Lancaster Cobbler at 15:48:46 Saturday April 14 2001
Speaking about our county cousins, we know that they do have a tendency to blow big games aka Cheltenham, surely if they blow it Talbot will ahve to go!

TRB Mark at 15:44:21 Saturday April 14 2001
Most of us would have settled, at the outset, for mid table obscurity. This is an illusion as , with 3 points for a win, you are either vying for the play-offs, or fighting to get away from relegation. You have to be consistenly inconsistent to remain all season in the middle and a few wins or losses on the bouce puts you in one camp or another. Promotion must always be the aim, because to try and settle for anything less for a club like us means struggling against relegation. If you know what I mean!

:0( at 15:43:51 Saturday April 14 2001
Too true. That's half the reason i'm not going next week. Been to too many end of season must win matches and come away with Jack.

Lancaster Cobbler at 15:41:2 Saturday April 14 2001
Fair enough mate, BUT If results stay the same Yeovil will only be 2 points behind and with a game in hand, if they beat you next saturday you will a point behind them , you have wobbled before and maybe nerves are getting to u guys

:0( at 15:39:34 Saturday April 14 2001
Arses

Paul at 15:39:26 Saturday April 14 2001
YES 3-0 to Hereford.... come on Yeovil!!!

;0( at 15:38:46 Saturday April 14 2001
but we always play bad there, still plenty of time and we have a cushion of 5 points.

Anon at 15:38:33 Saturday April 14 2001
3-0 to Hereford!

Anon at 15:34:29 Saturday April 14 2001
Rushden 2-0 down, there is a god!!!

Lancaster Cobbler at 15:27:1 Saturday April 14 2001
Whilst I share some of Hartwell's concerns, I think we are not in that bad a state. The main problem is probably about 15 teams in this division are much of a muchness and may other clubs have less money then us - hard to believe but true. But our main problem is we need a striekr who knocks in tap ins, Gabbi and Jamie are class goal players most of his goals are long range stunners.

Hartwell at 15:17:22 Saturday April 14 2001
Drilling Cobbler - I find myself having to agree with you regarding the overall performance of the team and of individuals. In particular Gabbiadini. You are right and it's something I've mentioned before as well. His pedigree is that of a goalscorer. He wasn't brought here to provide a few nice touches. He came here because we obviously felt he would wade in with a share of the goals. He now lacks that yard of pace to get away from a tackle and so when he gets possession he's robbed time and time again. Having said that the midfield must take some of the blame for not providing players like him with quality balls in the box and we must also blame the almost total lack of effective wing play. It's only when Hodge comes on do we have anything to offer. Regarding the club's finances, lack of cash is, as always, a major problem. It seems the only chance we might have to break the mould is if this consortium does in the end buy the club. I am remaining optimistic that it will happen and that it will also result in advantages to the club. However if it doesn't go through, I think most of us - having already heard Barry Stonhill's prognosis regarding the increasing difficulties of funding a competitive football league club - are acutely concerned about how the future will pan out. The logical analysis would be that, without additional funding, we will fall back into Div3 and even there probably have a job to remain anything but a mid-table club.

Benny at 15:15:45 Saturday April 14 2001
MONEY! MONEY! MONEY! It ain't the entire answer. You have to spend it wisely and create a TEAM, and a team that WANTS to play. Wilson is showing us that he is tactically naive, the players are showing scant regard for him and us. Throw money at the problem and you may as well throw it straight in the bin.

Paul at 15:13:7 Saturday April 14 2001
11 mins.... Rushden 1-0 DOWN!! and... Yeovil 1-0 UP!! YAY!!

Anon at 14:53:48 Saturday April 14 2001
Anon at 11:47:56. So why is walking out before the end 'gutless'?

richie fan from new zealand at 14:8:36 Saturday April 14 2001
were is everyone you all gone to watch the direones

richie fan from new zealand at 14:6:45 Saturday April 14 2001
are the players on a performance bonus if they are they must be short on pocket money by now.

richie fan from new zealand at 14:4:40 Saturday April 14 2001
we have a rugby team called the all blacks most of time they are best in the world cause one of reason if they loose they get crucified by the fans and that hurts and it scares the pants off them,all fans are entittled to an opinion but we all go back the next week and support them till they play like shite again the fans pay there wages so i think the fans are entittled to give them serve because if you wasnt doing a good job for your boss you would not have any money buy a season ticket cause you would not have a job so give em heaps but heyyyy come on you cobblers

richie fan from new zealand at 13:42:37 Saturday April 14 2001
girly if this the best team in 5 to 6 years why aint they playing like it. so it must be keven bloody wilsons fault

richie fan from new zealand at 13:34:3 Saturday April 14 2001
claudette were are youuuuuuuu.????????????????????????????????????

richie fan from new zealand at 13:32:46 Saturday April 14 2001
dont think drilling cobbler a happy chapie and dont blame him, but we aint going down.COME ON YOU COBBLERS

richie fan from new zealand at 13:23:38 Saturday April 14 2001
ray we need a live chat room so we can express ourselves better

The Drilling Cobbler at 13:23:31 Saturday April 14 2001
Just read through the comments and my general thoughts are pretty much on a par with 'Angry', Billy and West Stander. As for Phil, I just wish you were my boss! Many restaurants have a sign that says 'if you enjoy yourself tell others, otherwise tell us' or something similar. And I certainly told them all right after the 2nd goal went in. I had struggled to remain positive, but at the same time I am aware that constant critism is not a positive method of getting the best out of people. Once we were 2-0 down however, and with just a few minutes remaining, my frustrations boiled over and I spent the last moments of the game hurling abuse at the likes of Frain, Savage(MOFM MY A--) and Gabbadini. Yes Gabbadini. My patience has finally run out. 7 goals in about 30 matches is not the kind of return I expect from 3 grand a week. I expect a few Gabbadini supporters to come straight onto this board and call me fickle and point out all the good passes he's made and his movement etc etc but 7 goals is quite frankly fu'king crap. As for Frain being awarded a 2year contract, its simply got to be a joke. Why was Hunt taken off and not Frain? We may lack guile but until recently we didnt lack effort, determination and the will to win. Sadly we do now. With no guile to prop us up, we are now left with nothing. Hence the appaling run we are presently in. We need money, and we need it fast. Its about time the board actually said publicly what money they want for the club. You sell your car, house etc you advertise it for a set ammont and then negotiate if neccesary. So why cant Stonhill tell the Chron and Echo exactly what they are after and what clauses there are. Why are they being so bloody secretive. Everyone knows what Man Utd are worth, what Liverpool are worth (I know they are public companies and NTFC are not but they are still football clubs), so why can we not know what NTFC are valued at. No assets, debts, never made a trading profit of any real note. How much money do they Bloody want for the club? A million. 2 Million. Venables bought Portsmouth for a quid, and took on the debts. Lets face it, NTFC are as a business not worth anything. Its all about changing that so they are. But the current board do not have the resources to do that. So why are they turning down any kind of offer from people who apparently do have the resources and do have the right motives. Answer. Because they are egotistical and greedy. Or at least thats what it looks like from the angle I'm looking at it from. Come on Stonhill, be brave and name your price. If we dont generate sufficient funds to bring in a better quality of player, based on the last dozen or so performances we will be returning to division 3 at the latest end of next season. And then you really wont get the money you are looking for.

richie fan from new zealand at 13:20:20 Saturday April 14 2001
were the heck is cheveys lol

Hartwell at 12:24:43 Saturday April 14 2001
TRB Mark - there seems to be fewer and fewer people in the north stand every home game as well.

TRB Mark at 12:16:26 Saturday April 14 2001
The problem with the "singing" in the North Stand. Last night, most of those trying to get the singing going were drunk and could barely coordinate the efforts between themselves, let alone the rest of the fans. Too many times it's the anti republican rubbish of "I got a flute" and "No surrender" and I refuse to join in with that. There seems no effort with the singers to co-ordinate their effort with what is actually going on on the pitch and too many times the wrong song is sung at the wrong time and as a result, no-one joins in and then one or two of the singers then abuse everyone else for not joining in. And the harder they try, the less singing there is. So Chris W, the answer is not to try and bully everyone to sing all the time, it aint gonna work, but to follow the pattern of the game and try and pick the moments when to strike up a song. And as for the trouble in Chevy's, I heard it was a Cobblers fan who came in to goad the North stand lot by pretending he was a Cambridge fan.

JDTNTFC at 12:9:26 Saturday April 14 2001
What happend in chevvys then?

Chris W at 11:52:39 Saturday April 14 2001
Forget about the fans who walked out - what about those who were'nt getting behind the team in the North Stand? Yet again, we were the only people singing in the stand, and we were even shouted down to be quiet cos people were "trying to watch a football match"!!! We really have got the worst fans in the league, you know..

Pavel pshalarv@mail.ru at 11:51:20 Saturday April 14 2001
Dear friend, My name is Pavel, 38 years old. Live in city S.Petersburg(RUSSIA). i am a supporter my local team Zenit(S.Petersburg), now 2 place in Russian league. Me also like FC of England. I have hobby this collectin football souvenirs about Cobblers and enamel badges any English FC. In exchanges can offer football or ice hockey souvenirs: shirts, scarfs, badges, pennants, programmes European Cups: stamps, cards, Soviet Army badges.I hope you help to find new friends.Wait answer on e-mail pshalaev@comset.net and post address: Pavel Shalaev, ul.Hasanskaya 18-1-66, S.Petersburg, 195298 RUSSIA Yours sincerely,Pavel.

Anon at 11:47:26 Saturday April 14 2001
They talk about the team being gutless - w>

Transfer interrupted!

Scott at 11:36:28 Saturday April 14 2001
The Cobblers players deserve all the abuse they get after gutless performances like last night. I'm fed up with whingeing do-gooders who can't stand to hear a negative word about the club. Take away Jamie Forrester's purple patch earlier in the season and we'd be facing certain relegation. And another thing, the North Stand, what's that all about? Either take out the seats or blow the bloody thing up! It's embarrassing and crap!

Allan at 11:34:9 Saturday April 14 2001
I tought we 'mugged' Cambridge away and Bristol Rovers for that matter. Welch was in inspired form on those occasions.

Allan at 11:33:11 Saturday April 14 2001
A typical ChrisW comment! Whooooooooooooooooooooooo gives a stuff?

Chris W at 11:29:36 Saturday April 14 2001
Surprised that nobody's commented on the trouble before the game in Chevys...

TRB Mark at 11:26:39 Saturday April 14 2001
You may be right Anon. I had'nt been away for a while and while I missed the Millwall home game, I thought the Notts county performance was much better that alot of the home games, esp since Christmas. What are the odds on the Bournemouth game being a "must win to stay in Div 2" match? As someone said, it's never dull following Cobblers.

Bitter at 11:23:45 Saturday April 14 2001
Yes Cobblers Girly. Let's not be nasty wasty to the poor little Cobblers players, bless thier little claret and white socks. What they need after all those nasty lowlife supporters shouting fings at them is a bit of love and understanding. A cup of cocoa then off to bed for a night time story maybe? And maybe a few thousand pounds might help them get a good night's sleep and smooth the furrowed brow. Personally, I'd like to shove a few thousand volts up their collective arses.

Anon at 11:21:16 Saturday April 14 2001
TRB - I'm not so sure about Notts County away. That was Wilson's view and second half could have been right but let's not forget they hit the woodwork 4 times and missed some real sitters. You're right about Oldham though and I also think Bury outplayed s for much of the game.

TRB Mark at 11:16:44 Saturday April 14 2001
Even more angry~ I think you are wrong to include the Notts County away game. We played them off the park and they scored with just about their only 2 attacks. On the other hand, our early season form was disguised by alot of luck. The home game against Oldham springs to mind wherby they murdered us but we won.

Allan at 11:0:48 Saturday April 14 2001
I have always been concerned over Wilson's inability to express himself with any degree of confidence, passion or more worryingly to discuss tactics without slipping in to the vaccuum of inane platitudes. His radio interviews prove this so how is it in the dressing room? The side fully represent the manager, muddled, leaderless and lacking belief.

TRB Mark at 10:51:43 Saturday April 14 2001
On the bright side, I would rather Cambridge stayed up than Swansea and to that end the result was a good one. Much more worring is that if we continue in this vein, and unfortunately I can't see any turnaround, we will get relegated next season. This has got to be the worst home form since we have been at Sixfields and it's no good whining about the opposition getting 10 men behind the ball. In fairness to Cambridge, I thought they tried to attack and 2 goals proves it! And whoever hands out the MOTM wants his/her eyes testing. Sollitt made 2 exceptional saves in the second half and apart from a flap at a corner ball ala Swindon, he had a great game and was in no way to blame for the goals.

richie fan from new zealand at 10:33:19 Saturday April 14 2001
way to go M K UP THE COBBLERS

MK18 Cobbler at 10:13:41 Saturday April 14 2001
An awful performance and fuel for the moaners but I am just now sending off my season ticket renewal. Up the Cobblers!!

billy at 10:11:2 Saturday April 14 2001
One more thing. top marks to the Cambidge fans for the good support they gave their team - they put pish to shame, it was good to hear 'stand up if you hate boro' coming from both ends of the ground! The atmosphere from the home supporters was a bit better as well, maybe cos it was a night game, maybe cos it was a derby game. Shame that they players couldn't do a bit more to give us something to cheer about.

Even more angry at 10:9:3 Saturday April 14 2001
A few bad performances? Take out the Xmas wins over Borough and Bristol City and 3 injury time concedes to draw and what are we left with? A string of awful performances. Bournemouth 0-3, Walsall 0-3, Oxford 1-3, Bristol City 0-2, Borough 0-0, Luton 0-1, Notts County 0-2, Swansea 2-1 (good result, shite performance) Wrexham 0-3, Oldham 1-2, Oxford 0-1, Cambridge 0-2. It's not the defeats in themselves that are worrying, it's the gutless capitulation. The common factor? All have occured since Broadhurst left, so can we honestly say that if it wasn't for Kevin Wilson? A few defeats? 3 or 4. A dozen is more like a case for mutiny and fans who pay good money have every right to boo. I worry that rather more don't boo, they simply don't come back again.

JAMES at 9:58:18 Saturday April 14 2001
I was just wondering if theres any point of writing off for trials for the under 18's next season.

Hartwell at 9:52:40 Saturday April 14 2001
I was going on to discuss our "defence" and our "attack" but I've lost interest to be frank.......

Hartwell at 9:51:24 Saturday April 14 2001
Having now read through all the comments on last night's game here, I have to say I find myself agreeing with most of the basic criticisms. We have no midfield and haven't had one for ages. There is no service to the front men, the ball's played sideways and backwards - but when it comes to playing a telling ball forward - nobody seems remotely capable of doing so now. In the end we just give it away because it seems we just haven't a clue what to do with it! We had no width until Hodge came on.

Cobblers_girly at 9:42:26 Saturday April 14 2001
im not quite sure why people were booing the team off last night. we have had a few bad games and suddenly the team is being booed. if you really feel the need to boo after a few poor performanes then you really cant be proper supporters! those people who booed obviously have forgotten that if it wasnt for Kevin Wilson then we wouldnt be in division 2 now. think about the dire games we had under atkins and the dire signings he made and all the rest of it and no one booed him so quickly so why boo a team that is propbably the best team in 6 or 7 years at least. so come and get behind the lads to cheer them on and not get their spirits down!!!

West Stander at 9:39:2 Saturday April 14 2001
Phil - you can't just pick out Cobblers fans for turning on their players. It happenjs at just about every ground I've ever been to - and that's a fair few I can tell you. Why, even Liverpool fans were getting on the backs of their players yesterday! Fact is, fans pay good money to watch well-paid professional sportsmen. And when they simply don't perform, why shouldn't fans have the right to complain ? If you went into a shop and got poor service, wouldn't you complain ? We tend to overplay the "loyal fans only cheer their neam, never boo it" thing. If you took that to its logical conclusion, players could underachieve and under-perform all they liked in the certain knowledge that their idolising fans wouldn't raise a voice against them just because they are wearing their club colours. I actually think at times it does players good to know the fans won't tolerate third-rate performances. And let's also be fair to the fans who got at the players last night - it's not just one bad performance we're talking about here. It's a string of pathetic, half-hearted, gutless, clueless displays against so-called weaker teams in the last month or two. As we have now been beaten by most of the bottom clubs - and beaten well at times - where does that place us? Had it not been for Forrester's goals and Welch's saves in the first third of this season, we'd be at the bottom for sure. I can accept defeat, don't get me wrong. Their first goal last night was a real stunner and all credit to Cambridge. But if we send the message to our players that we will just sit back and tolerate a string of performances like we've been seeing recently because they happen to be playing in the claret shirts, they are hardly likely to be stung into action, are they?

billy at 9:30:54 Saturday April 14 2001
I can accept defeat - I can accept players having an off day - I can accept us being mid table - I can even accept Wilson making excuses because he has not not enough options for changeing around the formation / players. But the worst thing is that at the moment all I can see next year is a relegation fight. Ok so our fowards may be quality, but our midfield must be one of the poorest in the division. Very rarely do any of them run beyond the strikers and stretch the play, and none of them have the ability to play in the killer ball to the fowards. Time for Frain to hang up his boots I'm afraid, although I'm a big fan of Savage I'm beginning to think we'd be better of letting him go so we can afford to buy another midfielder. We still have a problem with the defence lacking pace and our full backs / wing back have been a problem all season. Hopefully Lavin will be better than Whitely (can he be much worse?) - and why do we keep playing long high balls upfield without a target man? I just hope that the board see sense and let the consortium in because we badly need the cash to strengthen the squad. If this goes on much longer how long will it be before chants of what a load of rubbish turn to chants of sack the board?

Hartwell at 9:21:3 Saturday April 14 2001
Well, the funfair was closed at Sixfields last night......and there wasn't much going on at the top of the hill either....

Angry at 6:28:43 Saturday April 14 2001
Phil, what bloody planet are you on? I was one of those who left immediately after the second goal. I resisted the temptation to have a go during the game, cheered them whenever and didn't hang around to boo them off. Which is the standard criticism on these pages. That really leaves only one option, namely to vote with ones feet. This is the sixth weekend since February where I've flown over 7900 miles to get back for a Cobblers match (when I could have stayed overseas and avoid flying back the start of next week). Frankly, we deserve better. Phil, these are players on up to 3 grand a week, many looking for a contract next season, whose wages put most supporters to shame. And last night they chose to insult us. the nominations by others here for being kept next season are about right. Whitley? absolutely f*@#ing diabolical in his favoured midfield position. He never looked for a throw from Sollitt, totally lacks pace, can't take a throw in for toffee, can't beat a man, no evidence of passing ability and had to be doubled on when attacked because he can't defend, and that against Terry Fleming for christ's sake. He made zero contribution all game and should have been subbed at half time (Hodge?). Frain? looks like a player struggling to believe he's just been awarded another 2 year contract. Took 3 touched to kill the ball and another 3 to release, was guilty of several suicide passes one of which nearly resulted in Spedding being kneecapped. Too slow as a defender, not even class as a midfielder, surely looking to Div3 football with the Cobbs within 18 months. Spedding? can be excused perhaps as he still hasn't recovered from injury, but he is so bloody predictable, never, ever cuts inside and was guilty last night of not carrying the ball to the by-line. Hope? probably the one bright defensive light. Sammo? good for another season, but we have conceded an awful lot of goals this season and he's now the wrong side of 30. Green? ditto, but terribly lacking in pace. Both he and Sammo look poor against pace and Green susceptible to the rough stuff. Savage? inconsistent and no left foot hence he missed a first half sitter. How many times do we say that each week. But certainly has the talent. Hunt? talent, but what was he on last night? awful two yard tap passes especially from free kicks, suggesting we have no game plan. Gabbi? has class but now lacks pace. Probably guily of trying too hard at times, looks better playing off a front two, too similar to Forrester. Jamie? will bound to come good, just isn't working right now. Howey and Hunter? difficult to believe the fromer won't be released since it's been over 2 years since he played football at this level and is also the wrong side of 30. Overall we had no pace in ANY position last night. Running off the ball was non-existent, substitions were left too late, tactically we played the first half with 5 across the back, all too reminiscent of Atkins, with no width. And what Slade is doing in the dugout is a mystery? Anyone care to state his managerial record? Sadly, many people clearly feel the same and large numbers of season tickets and debentures will not be renewed next season. Fans will put up with a mickey mouse set up, fairs on the car parks, ticketing fiascos at el but not to pay 15 quid to see a bunch of overpaid players perform like disinterested headless chickens.

richie fan from new zealand at 3:9:46 Saturday April 14 2001
claudetteeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee were r uuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuu

richie fan from new zealand at 3:7:41 Saturday April 14 2001
what im saying is on paper we got the best strike force in div 2,why aint we scoring goals,????????

richie fan from new zealand at 3:5:11 Saturday April 14 2001
PHIL everything you say is true,but if you dont perform at work would your boss say thats ok phil you are a nice guy

phil at 2:56:11 Saturday April 14 2001
Right. What on earth is going on? What do Cobblers Fans expect? I watched the Liverpool / Leeds Match on telly this morning. Do Cobbler's fans come to games expecting to see similar football skill? I could not believe the volume of people leaving after the second goal went in. These people are not supporters! We did not play badly. And it does no-one any favours to keep getting on the backs of the players and the management. Some Cobbler's fans have a short memory. We have seen some high quality displays of football this season at sixfields - the match against Millwall has to be a prime example of that. It is naive of anyone to think that Cambridge were going to lie down and let us take the points tonight. They are struggling for every point they can get. So are (were) Oxford and so are Swindon. The games that we played against these sides were very scrappy. It is difficult to break them down, they keep 11 men behind the ball and they pack defences with bodies making it extremely difficult for us. We employed the same tactics when we were in their position. Millwall let us play football, we let them play football - and guess what - we got a good game of football. Cambridge were poor. They defended for much of the game. We created chances but didn't take them. I agree with KW comments on the radio - we were not clinical enough if at all. True fans should support the club not moan all the time. Yes we made mistakes, yes we gave the ball away, yes we didn't play well. But support the lads, hurling abuse at them is not going to help them play better next time is it. It is constructive critcism we need. If you want to watch top quality football week in week out, bugger off to Brazil. If you want to see lots of goals week in week out, head off to Australia. If you want to feel emotion - good and bad - carry on supporting the lads. The cobblers can't do it without us lets not desert them in their time of need. Sorry for being too profound. You all know what i mean to say. I just get carried away.

richie fan from new zealand at 2:55:58 Saturday April 14 2001
on wed march 2001 CLAUDETTE made a posting of how many pionts we need to stay up,we bin on the slippery slope ever since.were are you CLAUDETTE. ????????

richie fan from new zealand at 2:42:2 Saturday April 14 2001
footballs a simple game one team scores more goals than the other side is the winner. why aint we doing that,theres only one way to go and that is up cause we aint going down ,GO U COBBLERS .

richie fan from new zealand at 2:19:57 Saturday April 14 2001
a large broom i think we want a bulldozzer

richie fan from new zealand at 2:14:33 Saturday April 14 2001
ahhhhhh wat happened ???????????????????????

barry Fry at 0:47:33 Saturday April 14 2001
Please excuse the cunt from Peterborough....he shouldn't be out with the foot & mouth restrictions et al

Ray at 0:46:20 Saturday April 14 2001
Yes - KW was definitely wrong about the free kick Cambridge scored from. OK - their forward picked the ball up but then placed it exactly in the same place. The mistake we made was for the wall to break up as the indirect kick was popped sideays and dash forward trying to run the ball down. It didnt gop through, over, round or any direction of the wall - by the time the ball was hit towards goal the wall had disappeared.

Spooner at 0:43:57 Saturday April 14 2001
By the way...not surprised Messias got "relegated" from the prem list...worst ref I've seen this season along with Oxford away

proud posh fan at sixfields at 0:43:52 Saturday April 14 2001
Thank you for the excelent recongnition of my team ,it made us feel like man utd, were fifty miles from you ,and you