Cobblers comments

Cobblers Comments
April 2003

Sprinkler at 23:52:37 Wednesday April 30 2003
MC, respecting his past and recognising that this was his time to part company with the club is fair comment. Towny's comments are just offensive. Where is this club going when we back Martin Wilkinson and then dismiss one of our heroes. Well said rwilks 97, well said. I am getting more and more disillusioned the more I read of so called fans like Ted and Towny who just haven't a clue and thinks some of us are all about spreading negativeness for the sake of it. It makes me sick to my stomach. I will take no joy whatsoever in this run continuing next season. None. I will only take joy in being wrong but i don't think it's going to happen and I think in the hearts of most fans they feel the same way. The blind faith bit is all well and good but its like when you predict the score going into Sixfields and say oh yeah two nil to Town and then there is the other part of you that is realistic. I am trying to be realistic not negative.

rwilks97 at 23:46:30 Wednesday April 30 2003
Sprinkler, you took the words right out of my keyboard. I hear the news about Lawrie Dudfield's imminent signing with dread but for this Townyh person to dismiss John Frain the way he has done is tantamount to treason. Reading the messages on here there has been more defending of Martin Wilkinson who does not deserve it and yet for John Frain there is the kind of offensive jibberish that Towny has just spouted. I agree. Shame! Shame! As for FAO posting earlier, of course he did not get Frain injured, that's clearly silly, but he if he had an ounce of feeling for the club and its history he would have ensured that John Frain was brought on to ensure the fans gave him a send off. At the very least he could have made an appearance at half time and waved to the crowd. Quite why it never happened is beyond me and I think indicative of the way the club is at the moment. As I have said I really hope the Cardozas know what they are doing.

MCHammer at 23:44:12 Wednesday April 30 2003
Frain is a Cobblers hero because he scored one of the most important goals in the clubs history. Since that time he has been injured, unfit or just plain too old to play a decent role in the side. I thought he was lucky to get a contract last time let alone even considering him this time. The guy was a loyal servant but has been a passenger for the last two years. Doesn't make you disloyal to be able to spot an average player.

Sprinkler at 23:39:46 Wednesday April 30 2003
Towny, a typical Town fan? Shows no respect for our heroes see his John Frain comment and defends a total muppet like Martin Wilkinson. That says it all in a nutshell. Shame on you Towny, shame on you.

Tag at 23:34:49 Wednesday April 30 2003
What tosh. If you read the Chron article you will see that he has left it to Hill because it is a meaningless game. He is actually doing what a manager should do and bring in the players. That's the worry having heard about the imminent signing of Dudfield a player who cannot get into a third division outfit. Nico said it right he does not fit into the previously stated game plan. What amazes me aboutthelikes of Ted is that as quick as he is to slag so called moaning fans by being this model pro Martin Wilkinson person and ever so loyal Cobblers fan, yet is quite happy to see him not be the manager. Ted, you go to the Trust and show what a fine outstanding gentleman Cobbler you are, and show no insight of worth at all.

Little bit of Politics! at 23:18:07 Wednesday April 30 2003
Nothing to do with football but a couple o' 3 questions that have been giving me sleepless nights for years for TCMP. 1) Which constituency is Sixfields in, N'pton north or N'pton south? 2) I seem to remember from somewhere that constituency's were supposed to have about 60,000 people (could be eligable voters) in them. The population of N'pton is about 200,000 and set to grow by 20,000 by 2020, so does that mean Northampton will get an extra constituency MP? Wolverhampton have 3 MP's and it's pop is 222,000. Did you know that there is a Northern soul track by a certain Tony Clarke called "Landslide" which is what Labour won't be getting tomorrow.

Lutterworth at 23:11:12 Wednesday April 30 2003
Nico - apparently Wilkinson also did a bit of scouting last weekend - he went to see Scunthorpe v Oxford.

Ray at 22:55:54 Wednesday April 30 2003
You automatically qualify for Trust membership then Ted ;)

Ted at 22:52:58 Wednesday April 30 2003
No. I will be old and frail but still strong of heart and mouth.

BR at 22:02:01 Wednesday April 30 2003
How will I know you Ted? Will you be blue and underlined?

Ted at 21:34:49 Wednesday April 30 2003
Redscouse..Good post that man!Your right in saying that the moaners will not attend the forum tomorrow night,infact I doubt whether they actually attend the games.However I shall be there,and if anyone from this site wants to have a chat please make yourself known to me.

Redscouse at 21:26:05 Wednesday April 30 2003
Sometimes it realy gets to you when you come on here and read the total rubbish some of you spout!!God I know what a crap season it,s been and relegation was deserved(the league table doesn't lie)I and my mate know how bad it was sometimes we didn't miss many but come on let's have a bit of positive stuff eh!The new people are here they are the ones paying the cash out to get us out of a real mess , so come on let's not bicker on what should be done here or there and get your support behind our club....you know the Cobblers. Wilkinson may not be everyones cup of tea but with Richard Hill there I think he will give us the passion and commitment we need to give it a bloody good go next season.If half of you had as much passion for this club as Hill shows in 90mins on a Saturday then we would be even better of! There is a forum tommorrow night where you can ask your questions are any of you going or am I right in thinking that most of you don't give a shit and only come on here to have moan because you don't have sod all better to do?..

nico at 21:19:07 Wednesday April 30 2003
re; Lawrie Dudfield signing. I seem to remember Wilkinson saying all players we signed would be Division 2 or Division 1, AND not players nobody else wants. So, excuse Mr Wilkinson, surely Lawrie Dudfield is UNWANTED by THIRD division Hull?! wise words Martin.

quality teamtalk strike again at 20:40:12 Wednesday April 30 2003
Orison reveals Cobblers delight Young Northampton striker Steve Orison was a proud man after notching his first senior goal in the 2-2 draw with Plymouth at the weekend. More... ( posted directly from teamtalk cobblers section) go on ya steve Orison!

Going Up!! at 20:30:17 Wednesday April 30 2003
Being a Cobbler you always have to look on the bright side, a weekend maybe at Torquay!! Going Up!!Going Up!!Going Up!!Going Up!!Going Up!!Going Up!!Going Up!! another promotion Going Up!!Going Up!!Going Up!!Going Up!!Going Up!!Going Up!!Going Up!!Going Up!!Going Up!!Going Up!!Going Up!!Going Up!!Going Up!!Going Up!!Going Up!!Going Up!!Going Up!!Going Up!!Going Up!!Going Up!!Going Up!!Going Up!!Going Up!!Going Up!!Going Up!!Going Up!!Going Up!!Going Up!!Going Up!!Going Up!!Going Up!!Going Up!!Going Up!!Going Up!!

BR at 20:25:30 Wednesday April 30 2003
I think you'll find the Gibb rumour all started from a press article saying something like "Gibb set for return to Cobblers". They were talking about him coming back with Stockport on Good Friday evening, not a transfer. It just got taken the wrong way. Of course, I might be wrong.

martin at 20:20:23 Wednesday April 30 2003
Have we signed ali gibb? If so where did you see that?

AJP at 20:18:48 Wednesday April 30 2003
Is there any truth in this gibb transfer, it was on this board that we'd signed him bout a week ago!!

BIG JIM at 20:15:02 Wednesday April 30 2003
Cobblers keen on Dudfield Relegated Northampton Town are keen to sign Hull City striker Lawrie Dudfield. Record-signing Dudfield is currently on loan at the Sixfields Stadium after falling out of favour at Hull. And City have confirmed that they are in talks with the Cobblers about a possible permanent move for the 22-year-old former Leicester City forward.

Towny at 20:13:17 Wednesday April 30 2003
How can anyone suggest that a stand should be named after Frain,o.k. he wasnt bad sometimes ..... sometimes was awful and has lived for too long on that goal,if thats the case so is Pat Gavin a hero as is Richard Hill already,if he helps to take us up he will be a god. The only reason Frain stayed at the cobblers was cos he was cheap.

FAO rwilks97 at 19:45:07 Wednesday April 30 2003
"I also share the disgust at his demise and the way it has been handled by a man who does not deserve to be in the hot seat" Not a Frain post, but another anti-Wilkinson post then? How did he handle it? Get him injured because he didn't want to pick him for the last home game? I'm pretty sure Frainy didn't want to come out at the end as about 50% of the crowd - supporters ha ha - would have shouted 'About time Zimmer, you're too old and crap'.

FAO Bert at 19:40:39 Wednesday April 30 2003
What a pleasantly put, well thought out post - but still bollocks and a waste of time. Do you really think going on like this will make the Cardozas say 'Sorry Martin, the season hasn't even started but you're out'? Move on!

BR at 19:33:41 Wednesday April 30 2003
Repeating a point ad infinitum does not win debates slim martin whatever your friggin name is. You've made the point. If you're proved right we'll erect a statue to you in the north west corner of the ground and pay homage to you every fortnight by laying flowers at your feet. If you're proved wrong you can buy us all cup of Bovril. Now move on there's a good chap.

Ray Venn......... at 19:17:51 Wednesday April 30 2003
........what a pratt, trying to score political points based on crass & incorrect facts - reminds me of that Atkinson fellow who always writes to the local papers quoting anti - Blair Mail rhetoric It's bad because it's Blair (or Tony Clarke), without any reference to the facts. Christ bring back Sprinkler Slimwotsit & Tag - at least their arguments are about heartfelt football issues!

Well am i the only 1 at 19:17:18 Wednesday April 30 2003
Has any1 else heard that weve just got ali gibb on a free....??????

Tag at 18:51:35 Wednesday April 30 2003
Ted, you are a prat.

Ted at 18:31:58 Wednesday April 30 2003
I don't like Anons at the best of time,but you are the pick of the bunch as far as lack of intelligence is concerned.Who in their right mind would waste their time with such a meaningless post?

Anon at 18:25:18 Wednesday April 30 2003
Thanks for that Ted but why would you care anyway as you are such a loyal fan who supports Martin Wilkinson. A loyal t..t more like

Ted at 18:20:59 Wednesday April 30 2003
CP...Your post is very interesting,as I was going to come on this evening and say the same thing.The Chronic tonight is all but saying that Hill has a more substantial role than just being an assistant.It states that once again Hill will be in charge of first team affairs while Wilko is off scouting,and how Hill is conducting training and changing the style of play.

rwilks97 at 18:20:00 Wednesday April 30 2003
As Max Boyce once said I was there when John Frain's glorious free kick in the third minute of stoppage time sent Northampton into the Second Division in that dramatic Wembley day. The elation, the glory, the smiling faces, the ecstatic Ian Atkins, are etched in my soul. John Frain will forever be a Cobblers legend and I agree fundamentally with slimmartinw about having some kind of permanent tribute to a man who epitomises all that is great about the club and its glory years. I also share the disgust at his demise and the way it has been handled by a man who does not deserve to be in the hot seat. He has become a mere footnote which I find deplorable. I haven't ever been on this forum before but I used to take great pleasure in seeing the goals on martinw's site, especially John's magnificent free kick, when i was living in Hong Kong, for which I am grateful. I do hope it can be resurrected by the way. My six-year-old son thankfully is Cobblers through and through, he was well brought up, but even he cannot understand the concept that Rushden are in a higher division. What I do understand is that the club needs at this very difficult period and after a tortuous, depressing year, safe and sure hands. Martin Wilkinson, in my humble opinion, is clearly not the man for this or any league management job at the moment. He has been handed the reins now he has got to get on with it but is it right that he can command the future of this magnificent Northampton institution with his record of what is, let's face it, failure. How can he expect to win the hearts and minds of fans and indeed players in that position. I have wrestled with this one for some weeks and I am sorry but i have to register my distress at the way our club is heading. To Mr Cardoza I would say, please please for the good of the club, see sense before we end up with another depressing season.

andagain at 17:54:48 Wednesday April 30 2003
Would the moaners who moan about the moaners who moan about the moaners, for god sake stop moaning.

Bert at 17:52:21 Wednesday April 30 2003
God this is no different to when Atkins was on his way out. The same people saying change is needed and the rest hurling abuse at their right to say that. Nothing changes on Cobblers Comments. One of the reasons i have kept away for over a year having been the victim of infantile comments like the ones below. There is a world of a difference between those who care about the club and are critical when it is called for and those who wantonly abuse players from the stand for not good reason. We all know who they are. Let's not get confused here. Martinw wears his heart on his sleeve, that's his only fault and there is no more passionate Cobblers fan so give it a break. You would think the manager was some some kind of Allah figure who should be worshipped. To say criticism is betrayal is the kind of emotional clap trap that has permeated this site for too long. Long live freedom of speech.

George - Bucks No1 Cobbler at 17:47:46 Wednesday April 30 2003
can anyone answer a question for me? Just looked at the BBc site and it said we were interested in signing Dudfiels on a perm basis. However there is notyng on the official Shite. Anyone know what the truth is? I also see were thinking of giving Jerry a one year deal even tho hes out for six months!!!!!

9224 at 17:28:37 Wednesday April 30 2003
* many years' experience* - sorry, one of my pet hates that!

9224 at 17:25:11 Wednesday April 30 2003
I get it alright, I just don't see the value in it. While Martin Wilkinson, who has many years experience and contacts in the game, took 35% of the points available to him as a manager before he joined us, Ian Atkins had only taken 36% of those available to him. Does that mean we should never have hired him? I bet Rotherham wished they'd never taken on Ronnie Moore, he only got 36% before he joined them. Now Ruud Gullit, with 56%, was obviously guaranteed success at Newcastle, as were Gianluca Vialli (62%) at Watford and Howard Wilkinson (52%) at Sunderland. My point is, statistics, if selected correctly, will basically say what the hell you want them to, never ever tell the whole story, and offer very little clue as to someone's future performance.

And another thing at 16:49:00 Wednesday April 30 2003
With this attitude you are probably one of the far too many who moans from the kickoff at the slightest mistake, or like the twats last week who moaned if we ever passed square or back. STOP AWAY. Let the rest of us try to enjoy it for what it is, not for what you would like it to be. (Demand it to be more like!)

FAO Martin W at 16:46:11 Wednesday April 30 2003
Do you geddit? He's the fucking manager STATISTICS OR NOT. You boring bastard - shut up!!!!!

therealslimmartinw at 15:59:27 Wednesday April 30 2003
Tag, I agree.

therealslimmartinw at 15:58:25 Wednesday April 30 2003
MC, I understand your point about the circumstances, but they really do not mitigate for the fact that he has one of the worst records of any manager in the Football League and that managers with similar resources have much better records, including those currently kicking their heels. I won't repeat the stats of similar managers because I would just be accused of repeating against, being boring, etc etc.

MCHammer at 15:54:37 Wednesday April 30 2003
realslim, So do you honestly believe that by being so negative about Wilko is going to help take the pressure of him. Although you are one individual stating his point you only have to look at the way Broads lost his job to realise that comments on a Internet board cost a manager his job. Personally I can't go along with your stats about Wilko because although they back up your point they will not show what the circumstances are that surrounded them. For instance what money did he have to spend at Carlisle, did he take over a squad not of his choosing etc. There can be mitigating circumstances that simply won't be shown by stats. For instance his 13 games in charge of us were hardly in the most ideal circumstances but again the stats won't show any of that.

Tag at 15:50:26 Wednesday April 30 2003
You cannot judge him on his form for the us? That's bllks martinw. Two wins in 13 matches is awful by any standards.

therealslimartinw at 15:36:57 Wednesday April 30 2003
Yes I lied, ecause even though its repeated people like 9224 are still not getting it. I repeat again, it's not judging him on the fact he has won two matches out of 13, though god knows Terry Fenwick was judged on fewer games. It's his whole career. Which is 90 matches managed, and 22 wins. Or if you want another slant 91 points out of a possible 273. Geddit?

therealslimmartin2 at 15:30:40 Wednesday April 30 2003
MC, chill, I am but one person contributing to a chat forum. How on earth could my view, which I am entitled to really have an effect on whether Wilko succeeds or not. People are entitled to their opinion as you are and they are entitled to repeat it to defend their position as you are. This is Cobblers Comments not Cobblers Lets Not Say Anything Provocative At All.

Martin at 15:27:23 Wednesday April 30 2003
All the people that come on here moaning about the moaners can you please stop moaning. All you do is go on and on at the moaners. For god sake stop the moaning about the moaners!

Anon at 15:23:27 Wednesday April 30 2003
To danny wilson? at 14.31 from more etc etc at 12.55, fair play to you, Mr Wilson has been as much as a failure as he has been a success, and I did post straight afterwards saying that none of the managers listed would be likely to come to our club.

Man of his Word at 15:19:11 Wednesday April 30 2003
Lying Swine.......therealslimmartinw at 11:58:22 Wednesday April 30 2003:"You will be pleased to learn that as long as nobody has another go, that that is the end of the subject as far as i am concerned. (cries of hooray)"

9224 at 15:17:35 Wednesday April 30 2003
Cheers marco, good to see we finally agree, it's only taken how many years? (It's all your bloody fault anyway, lumbered me with this bloody team!!!) Just to clarify, I'm not questioning anyone's right to criticise - as you well know I enjoy a good moan myself, when the time's right. If he does PROVE to be a bad appointment then we can all criticise away to our hearts' contents. What I'm saying is to do so now is, and I repeat, destructive and we should all hold fire. You can't judge him on his record in the 13 games for us this season because of his personal circumstances, the attitude of the players, and the fact that we were rubbish this season. As for him being a good bloke - we've all seen how important it is for our players to respect their manager and once you lose the dressing room you're finished. What I'm saying is lay off him for now, and let him prove himself. If you tell a child he's bad from birth, how else is he going to turn out?

MCHammer at 15:16:37 Wednesday April 30 2003
therealslim, what do you actually expect to achieve with your constant complaints. While I agree you don't have to accept a decision if you think its a traversty you have absoloutely zero power to change it. By complaining constantly and being so negative you give MW less chance of succeeding because people like yourself will only add pressure to the situation. To make out fans have accepted the decision through apathy is incorrect most of us have accepted it through realism because it is happening and will give the guy a chance something you don't seem to be able to do.

Its Groundhog Day at 15:14:05 Wednesday April 30 2003
Just logged on and realised that todays post's are the same as yesterdays post's which were the same as the day before and the day before that its like being stuck in some kind of negative time warp where the wife nags at you hour after hour after hour. Some of you lot could win the lottery and still moan about the balls not coming out out in the right order and or colour to match your decor. You could have a night of sexual passion with Anna Kournakova and moan about it not being a threesome with Nell McAndrew. So So negative and yet the club is just about to enter a period of real change backed up with the finance to make it happen. What a bunch of muppets some of you really are. Support your team for once in your miserable down trodden lifes and stop trying to be too clever by suggesting you know best and nobody else could possibly be right. Heres to the Div three championship next year UTC

therealslimmartinw at 15:11:15 Wednesday April 30 2003
MC, I am not sure how much the Cardozas had to do with Wilko's appointment as Ken Good was acting chairman and made the announcement that Wilko was to be the boss. Mr Good has now been sidelined since with the Cardozas admitting that they had not been as involved as they should because of other business interests. Read into that what you will. Interesting to hear what Mr Good said when Terry Fenwick went: "Directors are often criticised for not listening to the supporters but we know when something is not working, even if the manager had only been in charge for a short period of time." History has repeated itself. Yet NOTHING.

therealslimmartinw at 15:03:38 Wednesday April 30 2003
Anon, There is constant repetition of yes we have reservations (some more than that) but he's the manager, let's get on with. I am sorry, but I cannot tally with accepting a travesty because it happened. In my view if a mistake has been made, it should be rectified, not just lived with. And I would have thought that was true in most of life. Otherwise apathy sets in. The kind of apathy that you get when refs give yet another bad decision. I worry that Cobblers fans are so punch drunk that they just put up with just another punch.

MCHammer at 14:59:48 Wednesday April 30 2003
To all the doubters about Wilko....Why did the Cardozas put all their faith in him to spend their money if they don't think he's going to do a decent job. I think they stand to lose a hell of a lot more than any of you do if things go pear shaped. So if they are prepared to go with Wilko so am I.

Huge Underpants at 14:38:10 Wednesday April 30 2003
I am and I will

FAO Doubters at 14:34:09 Wednesday April 30 2003
Will you be going to the forum? If so, will you tell Wilkinson to his face he's crap and not worthy to manage the Claret and White? If so, I won't go as I'm old-fashioned enough to be embarrassed by self-styled experts being rude to people. (For example, I wouldn't even boo the players!)

Danny Wilson? at 14:31:38 Wednesday April 30 2003
Barnsley down, Sheff Wed down, big Bristol City still in Div 2. Not my idea of success. Mind you, most of the others would probably come here!!! Micky Adams, Glen Hoddle, Brian Clough, Harry Redknapp; which one would you choose? You're all having us on - and wasting our time.

Huge Underpants at 14:25:32 Wednesday April 30 2003
The fact remains the club is fucked

Anon at 14:09:56 Wednesday April 30 2003
therealslimmartin, so what do you suggest? The management team is in place and although anyone can object and highlight various facts and figures to support their objection we will start the new season with Wilkinson and Hill in charge. Lets just give them a chance, even if we could appoint one of the managers mentioned below there is no guarantee they would bring success to NTFC - all aspects of the game are unpredictable and that applies to managers, teams and players and with the support of the Cardoza's to allow Wilkinson and Hill to bring in the right players we have a strong chance of doing well next season.

marco at 14:02:20 Wednesday April 30 2003
9224, can't believe it, I agree with you! For once can Northampton people give someone a chance. I've lived way from Northampton for a few years and every time I'm back like TCMP I'm struck by the negativity particularly at Cobblers games. Wouldn't question anyone's right to criticise, I wasn't too impressed about the Wilkinson appointment either, but he will be the manager of NTFC next season. Let's see who he signs, see how things go in the first half of next season and get behind the team.

Anon at 13:19:47 Wednesday April 30 2003
Some things never change, Sounds about right well done martinw for getting it right. Your point?

therealslimmartin at 13:03:53 Wednesday April 30 2003
CP, interesting point, but I think it would wrong to overplay Richard Hill's role. He is the assistant. Wilko picks the side, decides the tactics. He is the number one. If he was the director of football, ,or a coach, or assistant manager he would be called that. He's not. Anon, to clarify for your benefit. Wilko has not been successful at ANY Football League club he has been at having previously being at Peterborough and Carlisle. His record for us is far worse than at any of his previous clubs, even though it was pretty diabolical even then. Two wins in 13 now for Northampton Town. At the very least it is nothing to write home about. I think his record is shocking and I understand the sentiment that says that the team needs to be in safe hands. Richard Hill is unproven but is preferably because of that. But he aint the main man.

Anon at 13:02:03 Wednesday April 30 2003
..and how many of those would come to Northampton (apart from Atkins who enjoyed success at only one club - NTFC!) Lets face facts, we have Wilkinson and Hill and they are the one's who will be in charge next season so lets get behind them. If things do go wrong I think we can rely on the Cradoza's to make any changes before it's too late

but.. at 12:58:45 Wednesday April 30 2003
not saying that they are avaiable or would want to come here though.

more successful managers at more than one club at 12:55:04 Wednesday April 30 2003
Micky Adams, Neil Warnock (ish), Danny Wilson, Ian Atkins (depends how you define success), Glen Hoddle, Brian Clough, Harry Redknapp?

Anon at 12:38:15 Wednesday April 30 2003
I can think of very few managers have a good record of success at several different clubs - Herbert Chapman, Bobby Robson, Martin O'Neil, Graham Taylor (and even they had seasons when the club they managed did not do that well)Can anyone mame any managers who have done well for several different clubs and who are likely to be available or would want to manage NTFC? The combination of Wilkinson and Hill looks to have as good a chance of bringing success as any management team we are likley to see at Sixfields although I do feel that the coaching standards from other people at the club such as Kearney and Curtis are not that good.

CP at 12:37:30 Wednesday April 30 2003
heres a question for thise among us who are saying we should sack wilkinson now.... how would you feel if Martin Wilkinson although manager in name actually carried out the role more akin to a director of football, ie assisting with the specifications of any ground /traing facilities rebuilding, handling contracts, scouting and revamping the youth system whilst Richard Hill although officially titled assistant manager actually carried out most of the coaching and organised the team on match days? would Wilkinsons poor track record be so important then? I only ask because thats the way things seem to be developing in my view. I should point out that whilst I think the club could / should have aimed a bit higher than Wilkinson I also appreciate that the Cardozas have worked with him over the past few months and obviously trust him with their money so the least we as fans can do is give the new team a chance to prove themselves.

therealslimmartin at 12:31:36 Wednesday April 30 2003
9224, (it didnt last long) being Carlisle United manager, as i have said before, makes no difference, the present encumbent has a much better record. Anyway it seems that there should be no discussion about the merits statistically of the most senior team manager at our club. I concur with Sprinkler's brave sentiments. Brave because i am aware he is setting himself for a tirade. I for one hope we have gained promotion by the tenth match of the season. As for Ted, well, if you have to resort to personal insults what's the point. Live and let live, mate. And Bert, hello again. Not sure what i can do about that site and ntfc might well close it down if they have their own goals on the official. (To repeat my explaination, sorry) web company, free-online, closed the site for no other reason other than i had not logged used their dial up connectionfor a month. While they said they kept back up of files for a month, they didn't restore the site and the files have been scrubbed. I have some backups but notsufficient. So boo to free-online. I am considering trying again, if anybody is interested. It was a shame that it was chucked like that, because it was getting hundreds of hits a week at its peak from all over the world. You will be surprised by the level of interest in Cobblers.

Sprinkler at 12:20:59 Wednesday April 30 2003
I am bored stupid by the people on here that keep saying that Martin Wilkinson is an acceptable choice so if we are going to tell the so called moaners to shut up maybe they should to. Agree totally with the sentiments of martinw except that I wont shut up about it. Grateful for the stats I never knew about it, thanks actually and of course stats can be misleading but Richard sees fit to look at Alun Armstrong's goalscoring record because as has been mentioned before that is exactly what you do when you pick a player, among other things of course. Adding to the list of critics a la tag,martinw,myself that should be sent to Nene Park but allowed to return thanks to what seems to be a backhanded apology from our esteemed MP, are childsview, ntfcok, Ray Venn, Driling, CTRKeterring and so on. Towny I for wont be gloating at christmas if we are in the shit. I personally dont want to get to that stage. Martin Wilkinson must be shifted. If Judge Pickles, Ted and are examples of people who feel the status quo should remain then we really are in deep s... The level of deep concern about the management should be taken a little more seriously.

FAO 9224 at 12:12:14 Wednesday April 30 2003
Why are you sensible and the others not? Just interested.

reallyfatannoyingtwat at 12:11:26 Wednesday April 30 2003
In an ideal world some of us out here might choose a different manager, but the world isn't ideal, so I for one am glad you are going to shut up. Just as MW is the manager your postings will be on another subject.

9224 at 12:06:46 Wednesday April 30 2003
For christ's sake - the reason he has a SEEMINGLY poor win/loss record is because he was the manager at fucking Carlisle United - who, since Mervyn Day took them back out of Division Two, have been the most bollocks team in the history of ever. To keep them in the league is a major achievement given all that pissing about by Mr Knighton. I have confidence in the management team - and even if some people don't, I question the wisdom of airing your views before the man has had a chance. Forget this season, it was shagged the day Fenwick came - I'm all for freedom of speech but being willfully destructive with comments with little or no grounds does no-one any good at all. If it doesn't work, then we'll all have our say and be justified - until then, be a supporter

Anon at 12:04:21 Wednesday April 30 2003
Ted, you can write sanctamonious and pious clap trap at times. You decide who writes a good post and decide who are the idiots. Who the hell do you think you are you holier than thou excuse for a fan.

therealslimmartinw at 11:58:22 Wednesday April 30 2003
Nice to hear, TCMP, but is the good news that Wilko is to be replaced with a manager with credientials? Sorry, but this is a case of responding to other comments. I think I am entitled to explain myself as others who feel similarly if other fans decide they want to challenge a view. You are entitled to repeat your view that Wilko is the right man for the job, as have others, you have a right to do so but won't accuse you of being boring. I will not be backing Wilko in the way you perceive. I will be backing the team put together in the name of Northampton Town. I am looking forward to seeing what delights are in store (no irony intended). I agree that Cobblers fans can be a lot of whingers. That doesn't mean we shouldnt when it is necessary. I think this is necessary to bring to attention how we have employed a manager with one of the worst records in Football League history. That while most Football League and Premiership sides give the caretaker manager a chance and employ him when the team responds well and sometimes not even then. We employ him when the team fails to respond. Incredible. I still would like to know how he was employed. What discussions were held and what it was particularly that, presumably Mr Good, thought he was the right man for the job. You will be pleased to learn that as long as nobody has another go, that that is the end of the subject as far as i am concerned. (cries of hooray) But obviously not TOTALLY the end.

What on Earth? at 11:32:16 Wednesday April 30 2003
What on earth is Ray Venn going on about? He is so wrong on so many things which have nothing to do with Football that you would think TCMP was paying him to be stupid!! On the Trust he says what AGM? and we actually had two this year if you remember, he obviuosly does not. He calls TCMP New Labour!! Crikey if he is new Labour then my mothers the queen!! And as for political pressure on the Inland Revenue he obviuosly forgot that Mr Clarke intervened with the revenue to keep the club trading. You say you have been in business since 1990? then you should know that the government brought in the minimum wage against the protests of companies like McDonalds who wanted to pay their staff less!!Not as you say to use as a tool to justify low pay. and as Ralph says below, you declare all this knowledge because "you know what you are talking about" what a dipstick the real reason you posted was to just have a pop at people like TCMP and MW without having to face up to them in the flesh. Incedently as a businessman who has run his own company since 1990 have you ever given any to the club in advertising to help them pay the tax bill? if so what is the name of your company?

Anon at 09:12:20 Wednesday April 30 2003
Wasn't it Kinet who scored a hat-trick past us for Millwall?

MK DON at 08:52:03 Wednesday April 30 2003
cmon MKFC

Anon at 08:40:45 Wednesday April 30 2003
What about Nigel Jemson now Shrewsbury are relegated?

Gee at 08:38:39 Wednesday April 30 2003
Looking at footballtransfers.com, the following players have been released this month: Neil Emblem, Christopher Kinet, Simon Colosimo, Robbie Mustoe, Danny Sonner, Paul Cook, Andy Payton, Some high profile names who could do a ver good job for us.

FAO NTFCOCK at 07:59:17 Wednesday April 30 2003
So sack him. You own the club. If he does OK you won't need a towel as you will change your name and say 'Told you to give him a chance'. If he's a good scout - hurt you to say it? - and we have Hilly to do a bit of coaching, things may go quite well. Perhaps they haven't named him DofF, but perhaps that's what he is.

Towny at 07:55:33 Wednesday April 30 2003
This site is getting rather pathetic now,with all the comment regarding Wilko,i suggest sprinkler,the real dim, ntf cok,Tag i think that you are in a minority boys,best thing you can do is save up your pocket money and put in a bid to buy out the cardozas,if successful you can then bring in who you like to manage the club....If the club is floundering under Wilko around xmas,you can all come on here and gloat,and i will apologise but for now please please......... shut the fuck up!!

Bloody Madness Of Not at 07:31:49 Wednesday April 30 2003
too many cooks spoil the bird in the hand..um..i think you konw my views on this matter.............bingy

Pihuan at 06:42:23 Wednesday April 30 2003
What about a testimonial for John Frain vs Birmingham City? Whatever happened to Sammo's testimonial, did I miss it or did it disappear.

MCHammer at 00:57:28 Wednesday April 30 2003
Can I just ask do you not think that the Cardoza's had a choice in who should be in charge and spending their money next season? Yes they may be advised by certain people but if I was putting in the kind of money they are I would still be making my own mind up if I was happy about it. Also you talk about MW's lack of coaching skills and yet fail to acknowledge that we have signed a reputable coach in Richard Hill. Surely the two together can balance the points lacking in each other? The point is you don't have to agree with MW being appointed but it is a fact. Give him the ten games you state then start moaning in the meantime whats the point in repeating the same thing over and over.

NT FCOK at 00:09:21 Wednesday April 30 2003
TCMP:::: everybody seems to be cutting their teeth around here some are just grinding them , we have been relegated and could be in the mire next season we need a manager with a track record who can spend any money very wisely and get us straight back up there with real coaching skills, you are very optomistic about MW but the real truth is that if MR C & Son are going to go ahead with all thats been reported such as spend money and buy the ground etc etc,, then perhaps dont you think that its about time somebody stood up and told them that unless we get somebody proven then a lot of money will be wasted,you seem to be putting him somewhere he dont belong,,its a FACT that martin is a good scout but not a coach. this not whinging its called the truth and alot of people not just on this site are not convinced that Martin will pull it off...I really hope that Mr C will see the light like he did with the others ........with the kind of investment and commitment that they are making they are going to need all of the sound advice they can get not just a "tell a kid he is bad" speach .dont put MW on a little pedestal like you have been doing ...Anyway if this all go's into next season with martin at the helm I would give him ten games before they put it right..My money is at the end of next season MW will not be in charge..And you will need a teatowel to wipe that egg of your face....There has been alot of misguidance here right from the takeover but Mr C has done the correct thing and took charge to sort out matters he is obviously not blind nor stupid

Anon at 22:57:36 Tuesday April 29 2003
.

Anon at 22:55:35 Tuesday April 29 2003
and w****KERS Ted!

Ted at 22:55:17 Tuesday April 29 2003
Great post Ralph.lol

Ted at 22:50:35 Tuesday April 29 2003
Confused..Nothing to be confused about mate.Far Cottons full of good drinkers and full of deep thinkers.

Ralph at 22:48:01 Tuesday April 29 2003
RAY VENN - You call TCMP 'arrogant'!! Bloody hell physician heal thyself matey!! Sit down, pour yourself a drink, read what you have posted and ask yourself . . . what would you think of anyone who said of themselves 'I know what I am talking about'.

Lutterworth at 22:45:00 Tuesday April 29 2003
If you think that Northamptonshire people are generally negative apathetic whingers then I suggest you spend some time in Market Harborough, they make Far Cottons finest look like a cross between Mr Motivator and Timmy Mallet.

Confused. at 22:41:31 Tuesday April 29 2003
Poetry and proverbs and born in Far Cotton.There's something about Ted that just doesn't add up.

Geremi at 22:40:55 Tuesday April 29 2003
I'd like to quantify my comment regarding Zimmer when I referred to him as an 'old bugger'. He will always live on in the annals of Cobblers history as the man whose twice taken free-kick, let me (the ref) just move the ball for you so you can see the goal more clearly, gave us such a feeling of ecstacy on that wonderful, wonderful day at Wembley. Time to let the old bugger go and tend his roses back in Solihull though. He's done his bit.

Ray Venn at 22:38:34 Tuesday April 29 2003
TCMP: Yes you pay 40% as a high earner for maintaining an absurd level of bureaucracy that you will not change because it maintains your lifestyle. M.P.'s should be on the minimum wage that companies like McDonalds pay and which they can now claim to be justified as official government policy whereas evertyone knows noone can live on it. You say 'the point isn't whether or not the Cobblers should pay their taxes (of course they should) the issue is why does the Inland Revenue treat clubs up and down the country differently?' - do you seriously believe what you say? The Inland Revenue is an administrative organisation that is given the task of raising a pre-determined level of taxation from individuals and businesses, if the businesses in particular choose not to pay then they send the bailiffs in very swiftly. I have been in business since 1990 and I know what I am talking about! If football clubs are treated differently then this is through political pressure. I would suggest either the MP for Swindon is better than ours or/and it has proved evident that NTFC (not for the first time) is incapable of running its own affairs. I should point out that Leicester City went into administration and as a part of that procedure they defaulted on their tax bill. As for the Trust election - what AGM? The Trust has become some sort of boys club with shares in a bucket factory by the look of it. As for suggesting I spend a week following you around that is typical of your arrogance. Do you seriously believe I can spare a week to watch your shenanigans whilst I am trying to earn my own living? Finally, Martin Wilkinson has no skills in management from what I can see and a very dodgy c.v. so whether or not he is a fine man is not going to help NTFC and the reason people on here put forward that view is not because they enjoy whinging but because they believe it to be true but what would a politician schooled in the way of New Labour know about that!

Ted at 22:32:13 Tuesday April 29 2003
Wilkinson&Hill..I was refering to the divide in support for the management of NTFC.You know, united we stand and divided we fall and all that .

To Statto the bore at 22:24:50 Tuesday April 29 2003
Did you know . . . . that 87% of all statistics are made up on the spot?

Wilkinson & Hill at 22:22:28 Tuesday April 29 2003
Two captains sink the ship eh TED? What are you alluding to??

CobbComm at 22:09:59 Tuesday April 29 2003
With the worst manager in the league we could soon be doing a Shrewsbury, Ted

Ted at 22:06:23 Tuesday April 29 2003
Great irony tonight.Almost 10 years to the day of our great win at Gay Meadow to stay in the league Shrewsbury are relegated to the conference afte 53 years of league football.Get behind your club!We have a lot to be thankful for.

Lurtz at 21:54:28 Tuesday April 29 2003
I agree Bazza, that is good news ref Jerry Gill. Strange how when we get some (potential) positive news the usual moaners go AWOL. I hope we can get him through this injury and get a good half season out of him as, along with Harsley he never failed to impress me with his commitment and effort at a time when the freeloaders were in cruise mode. No doubt the stats and will be used to prove otherwise by those who grind axes from afar.

the real towny at 21:01:40 Tuesday April 29 2003
jack lester has been released by forest not a bad player and terry cooke has left grimsby not bad signings for next year maybe!

Ted at 18:59:13 Tuesday April 29 2003
Interesting also in tonights Chronic, that in one year Max Griggs and his son have lost more than half of their personal fortune due to a massive slump in sales of Doc Martins.

Ted at 18:52:21 Tuesday April 29 2003
Interesting to see TCMP mention the"the glass half empty not half full" trait of the Northamptonshire public.I say Northamptonshire because wherever you go,Rushden,Kettering or Daventry it's exactly the same.Personally I wish they would all p**s off and take their miserable attitude somewhere else.It is a facet that has held the club back for many years,and has deterred many sportsman from performing at their best.Those of you who persist in your anti Wilko comments cannot possibly have any love for the club,and for this reason Sprinkler,Tag and all you other idiots,you should be ashamed of yourselves.Unless ofcourse you're impostors from the east.

Some things never change at 18:48:42 Tuesday April 29 2003
Heres a blast from the past: therealslimMartinW at 16:50:09 Wednesday December 11 2002 We are underachieving under Kevan Broadhurst because poor tactics are robbing us of points.

Bazza at 18:37:43 Tuesday April 29 2003
Great that Harsley is POY. Does anyone else think it could be worth having, Manager of the Year or Chairman or the Year at The Cobblers? We've had plenty to chose from.

Bazza at 18:33:56 Tuesday April 29 2003
Good news for Jerry Gill on the Off Site. As long as he doesnt turn into another Lavin.

Richard at 16:44:49 Tuesday April 29 2003
So does all of that mean we play 3 at the back with Carruthers and another as wing-backs. Or do we stick to a flat back 4???

Stato the bore at 16:39:37 Tuesday April 29 2003
Well Tag once again you are wrong - Here are some examples where statistics can be misleading. These first ones are chosen to be non-technical to illustrate the difficulties in a manner that everyone can understand: Someone is fond of saying that, in Northampton, "all the children are above average." Apparently this average was calculated for children in some other distribution - probably from Rushden or Kettering. I grew up in Northampton but have spent the last 5 years of my professional life in Rushden, so when people ask where I'm from, I always say "on the average - Northampton." Obviously there's a bimodal distribution at play here (as well as some knowledge of geography), therefore there is no validity to the use of the average, even though it might be estimated from the data. "You can fool all the people some of the time and some of the people all the time, but you can't fool my mum!" Sometimes the general inferences from statistics don't apply at all because of an important difference in the situation of interest. Here are some technical examples where statistics may be misleading and difficult to interpret in laboratory work: The correlation coefficient is 0.99, therefore the two methods agree almost perfectly. Not necessarily - they may be correlated, but that doesn't mean they produce the exact same numerical values. The values by one method could be a factor of 2 higher than by the other. The t-value for the data from a comparison of methods experiment shows that the observed bias is statistically significant at p=0.05, therefore the new method is not acceptable. Not necessarily - a difference may exist, but that doesn't mean that difference, or bias, is medically important. One of the control measurements exceeds 2 SD control limits, therefore the quality of the test results is not acceptable. Not necessarily - remember there's a high chance of observing false rejections when 2 SD control limits are being used. None of the control measurements exceed 3 SD control limits, therefore the quality of the test results is acceptable. Not necessarily - maybe the QC procedure isn't sensitive enough to detect medically important errors. Which if you have not fallen asleep means stats actually don't necessarily mean what they say!

Hey at 15:32:44 Tuesday April 29 2003
I'm just showing you that statistics are just that. They do not predict the future. Many people thought T. Venables was the greatest as England manager, but that is not a view shared by Portsmouth or even Leeds fans.

BAD AT SUMS at 15:29:34 Tuesday April 29 2003
17 x 5 = 85

Richard at 15:01:35 Tuesday April 29 2003
How many goals per start from Alun Armstong though, I bet 40 of those games were as a sub, and also a player who scored 1 in 4 games in division 1, will surely score more than 1 every 4 in division3.!!!

9224 at 14:53:38 Tuesday April 29 2003
Having made my feelings about John Frain clear all season I'm glad to see that finally people are beginning to agree (only after he's gone though!) The man is a legend, a real 100% player and the day he leaves Sixfields for the last time will be a sad one

Alan Armstrong at 14:41:35 Tuesday April 29 2003
For Ipswich: 85 games 17 goals. Crap! FACT. Wow, posting stats is great. Gabbs 132 games 30 goals. Better! FACT. I bloody love it! FACT. STATS. I feel better for that.

nsb at 14:35:11 Tuesday April 29 2003
tcmp; when you say good news do you mean we are going to ask peter taylor to let us have forrester back?

TCMP at 14:30:48 Tuesday April 29 2003
Come back? I told you before Tag I never go away!! But I do sometimes get fed up with the pointless bickering and repitition that goes on. Something may be worth saying once to spark a debate and receive feedback but I have to say that some of the comments on here seem to go round in ever decreasing circles. For the record I am happy for all and sundry to stay at Sixfields the only reason I mentioned Nene Park was to get some of you see that yes we may be relegated, yes its been a horrible season but the moaning has to stop somewhere and life could be a whole lot worse!! You could be a Diamonds Fan!! If I have a constant beef not only in Football but also in many other areas is that on the whole the Northampton Public that I was born amongst can be such a miserable load of buggers at times, always looking for the down side. I have told many an individual that my mum was a dancer and travelled around the stages, and she told me that it was a well known fact that if you could play Northampton you could play anywhere. Even Glascow was easier as the crowd simply swore and threw things at you, whereas in Northampton we just sat there with our arms folded and said "O.K I have paid me bloody money now, impress me" and even the most sizzling performance would be treated with a coolness and perhaps the comment " Not bad I suppose, I have seen worse" Now the point I make is that I am a Northamptonian, I know that that same cynical streak excists within me as well, but in my job when trying to get the best for the town I have realised that you have to be more bullish and talk up the town if you want to see it blossom. Tell a kid he is bad from the day he is born and guess what? Yep he will turn out bad. But encourage him nurture the good and don't try to pick holes at every opportunity and he might just have a chance of making something of himself. So Tag, SlimMartin Sprinkler, welcome back to Sixfields it took me telling you to bugger off before you were able to get angry enough to say "we aint going anywhere" but I am glad you are now willing to get behind MW and give him the chance he deserve. I didnt get the entire drift of your comments Tag at 11:24 but needless to say I don't hide my comments from either the fan base or the Chron and Echo, in fact I have a pretty good relaitionship with them as they now that if they ask me for a comment they will get it full on without the spin or cover, so you shouldn't worry too much about their reaction. Finally there were some intersting points raised by Richard below regarding players and ground expansion and the post above it from guesses was not a million miles away from the answers, but I hope that within the next few weeks we will be bombarding you with so much good news that we will all catch a whiff of optimism. Tony

amy at 14:08:10 Tuesday April 29 2003
i fink cobblers is aload of rubbish

Judge Pickles at 13:31:53 Tuesday April 29 2003
therealslimmartinw ,tag & sprinkler - I think you miss the point - yes, you are expressing an opinion - and it's a valid one based on facts - some people agree some don't! What you fail to understand is how irritating it is to hear the same comment over & over & over & over again. The viewpoint is not going to change anything short term at the club so why oh why keep on? (Oh & Carlisle are still only doing marginally better since MW left - in fact if the loose tonight.........)

Bert at 13:04:24 Tuesday April 29 2003
Slimmartinsomethingorother, arent you the one who set up the website with the goals on it. Whatever happened to that. It was great. John Frain's goal and everything. You haven't been on here for ages. Any chance of the goals coming back. I loved some of the goals from that season but every time i try to link to it i get some error message. Oh i can confirm martinw is a loyal fan for what it is worth if a bit vocal at times. I for one am excited about the coming season with the possibility of big names coming. Here's hoping. But I agree with Tag, stats matter.

Loyalfan at 12:58:56 Tuesday April 29 2003
time to draw up a document which explains the rules for being a loyal fan. that would count me out as a father of three children who rarely if at all goes to matches. doesnt mean that i dont talk about the side, watch them when i can, go to the odd forum when my wife will let me. some people on here should grow up and stop slagging off eachother. i also have reservations about wilks and have not aired them before now. but i will be supporting the club from the comfort of my armchair, yes, at the start of next season. i have supported the club in one way or another since i was born. my dad before him was a cobblers fan and his dad. lay off this who is more loyal than who line because the fact is we all have differences of opinion and should live with it.

Tag at 12:52:36 Tuesday April 29 2003
Well i never understood a word of that, Bloody Madness, but to those who say that they are bored about statistics I would say will you be as bored if we got Alan Armstrong. Wouldnt we all be looking at his goalscoring record? Wont we all be looking at how many points we have next season as we have this season? Didn't Martin Wilkinson look at the age of players - a years on this planet statistic - before deciding some were too old to play for us. Did he also not look at how much they were being paid - a money statistic - before deciding we cannot afford to keep them. Saying the win ratio of Martin Wilkinson is not relevant is like saying that it doesn't matter if we score goals or it doesnt matter how many points we get. It's crazy.

Anon at 12:21:46 Tuesday April 29 2003
i think youll find the stats show that stig toftings off to jail.so not that good a signing hmmmm

anon at 12:12:11 Tuesday April 29 2003
therealslim thingy. Ok Ok so youve made yer point - but how games do u go 2 in a season? How you comment on how the team has performed when you probably see them 2/3 times a season? and please enough of the Wilko out campaign - its tedious enough without your view on it every 10 mins

Bloody madness of not at 11:31:42 Tuesday April 29 2003
Cobblers Comments is supposed to be a forum,this does not claim boxing and leaves us.But that's an opinion, not a hope I like to see a good discussion,we need major signings quickly to convince these players are shit,I don't pretend this is the same 'John Frain/John Barnwell was shabbily worked up about.,statistics probably say that all we need to stop playing strikers on the wings and join the Iraqi government,Footspar footspar my kinggoatish for a footspar....um...i think you know my views on this matter.....................bingy?

Sprinkler at 11:31:14 Tuesday April 29 2003
The ones that keep moaning about people expressing themselves sound more like a broken record. Geremi, shame on you for your John Frain comments. He is not merely an old bugger. He gave me one of the greatest memories. Whoever it was that said that a stand should be named after him has my undying support. He is Northampton Town through and through although i am sure he is fed up with a certain section of fans who used to barrack him for being so called passed it. Believe it or not i was not one of them.

Tag at 11:24:30 Tuesday April 29 2003
Loyalty? An interesting subject. Does it mean never raising any issues. Sorry to keep on the same subject but some people on here are carrying on the discussion other than the martinws, sprinkers and all. Germany had loyalty for a certain Hitler and look what happened there. Everyone is entitled to their opinions. I am just shocked that Tony Clark who I agree is not Mr Northampton Town thinks that those of us who have alternative views from his should get off to Nene Park. Not surprised he has not come back. I am sure the Chron would love to read those comments because they refer to what I would say was the majority of fans. Not everyone speaks their brains on it though.

therealslimmartinw at 11:17:21 Tuesday April 29 2003
Trouble is , entitled to your opinion, of course, but nobody could call me a fair weather fan. I don't come on to wind up supporters, the best thing to do if you don't agree is don't agree and not get to worked up about it. Cobblers Comments is supposed to be a forum for discussion and that's what this is. I won't on the other hand get too hot under the call by your comments. After all we have one thing in common, a love for Northampton Town Football Club. I would never give up on the club because of a fundamental disagreement, like some have said. I think Atkins situation showed that when enough people feel strongly about something, and yes, they were also castigated for being non fans and traitors, then changes happen. I don't pretend this is the same, because Wilko will have to be given a chance at the beginning of next season. I just hope that we do not regret it. I think we will. But that's an opinion, not a hope.

guesses at 11:13:47 Tuesday April 29 2003
Richard if the wage bill was about �1.5m last year and we have got rid of ten players (some of them on big money) I would guess we have saved around �800,000 but will need to spend some of that to bring in new blood. Wages for those coming in will be lower as the bubble has burst so we could get good value for money (two for one deals and money off offers on top brands)I think Tony Clarke said the open Forum that any plans for the ground should surface before the summer and I don't think they would bother unless it takes the capacity to at least 12,000 anyone want to have thier guess on the above?

Richard (A few questions) at 11:08:30 Tuesday April 29 2003
So how much money was saved in the axing of the 10 players at the end of the season, and how much of that will be used for new players next year. When will the redevelopment of the ground begin, and what will ne new capacity be?

therealfatstupidbastard at 10:56:17 Tuesday April 29 2003
Sorry to keep going on about it, and I will get behind the new manager whoever he is, but I really have to say again that John Barnwell was shabbily treated and was given no funds whatsoever. He would have turned it around I'm sure. Still, until I come on again, I'll forget about him and get behind - er - whoever it is. (Atkins?)

Thomson not Harper at 10:19:28 Tuesday April 29 2003
You see that post from Gerimi was real cobblers comments stuff. I agree that Harper does not claim his box and leaves us open to crosses. How many free headers over the last few weeks? Thompson is in my view the better keeper. Sprinkler and Slimmartin should get a life and start talking football rather than sounding like a stuck record.

Geremi at 08:09:37 Tuesday April 29 2003
DYL - Your comments regarding Harper are well made, he worries me ever since I saw him pre-season at Bedford. Quite a few rate him but he spills the ball and does not come from crosses. GEORGE BUCKS - 'John Frain should have come out and done a lap of honour' - You're having a laugh, if he did we'd all still be at Sixfields waiting on the old bugger to finish!!

LH at 08:01:06 Tuesday April 29 2003
SlimMartin. Although I like to see a good discussion your right Glasgow is to far .

Town y at 07:47:25 Tuesday April 29 2003
Hey real dim welk,statistics probably say that all these players are shit else they wouldnt have bee released !!

nsb at 07:28:40 Tuesday April 29 2003
whats more pihuan is that we need to stop playing strikers on the wings....

Bloody Madness Of Not at 06:59:01 Tuesday April 29 2003
Footspar footspar my kinggoatish for a footspar....um...i think you know my views on this matter.....................bingy?

Pihuan at 06:53:53 Tuesday April 29 2003
Think we need major signings quickly to convince wavering season ticket holders to renew. I intend to renew in any case, but after the tripe we've seen for most of the last two seasons, nobody could be blamed for thinking twice. We're also plunged into a far more competitive situation than we have been with higher division football available nearer than ever before. The Board is [mostly] giving out the right signals, and I think there are reasons to be cheerful. Top of my shopping list would be a powerful centre forward, and a couple of good crossers of the ball. How many promising attacks this season have been fouled up by dire crosses?

Early riser at 06:01:48 Tuesday April 29 2003
Thanks for mentioning Nene Park, its certainly the place to be.

Trouble Is at 00:39:23 Tuesday April 29 2003
Trouble is Sprinkler that 1)Most of us agree with TCMP and 2) most likely he would stand up in the commons and say that. And thats the point better to have someone who is upfront in his beliefs and says it as it is than people like yourself and slimmartin who simply come on her late at night to rub up the supporters with your broken record MW must go routine. We dont need fair weather fans they are the apitamy of the Nene Park Following and probably deserve to be sent there to rot. We need leaders and bravehearts and TCMP will do for over and above all you hidden doom traders.

therealslimmartinw at 00:33:38 Tuesday April 29 2003
Some of the relatively big names already released that are currently unattached, Strikers - Scotland international Scott Booth, Georghi Hristov, Viorel Moldovan, Gifton Noel-Williams. Midfielders - Stephen Glass, Stig Tofting, Richard Witschge, Stefan Beinlich, Mario Basler, Vincente Engonga. Defenders - Henning Berg, Jorg Heinrich.

Sprinkler at 00:11:20 Tuesday April 29 2003
Tony Clarke MP is probably not on here because the last time he was he said something unwise about anyone not supporting Martin Wilkinson should ship out Nene Park. He is not some great god from another planet. Can you imagine if he got up in the House and told Tony Blair that if he did not agree with him then he could f.. off and join the Iraqi government. I think he went well over the top with that and is quietly skulking. We all have opinions and we all believe them to be right. Including Ted. I could say that anyone who doesnt believe that Martin Wilkinson should be booted out should get lost to Nene Park and would feel i had the facts on my side but it's clearly not right.

therealslimmartinw at 00:01:42 Tuesday April 29 2003
Good stuff Drilling. I tend to concur with Sparkly or whatever it is, that this close season more than perhaps any we have to make sure that we are going in the right direction. We cannot afford to get it wrong. It would not take much to be in severe financial difficulties again and we just cannot afford to continue to get it wrong. That's why i get so hot under the collar over Wilko. It's not about disliking him, he seems a very likeable man. It's just that this club needs to be in safe hands especially now that we are having a clear out. Especially now when it looks like we can have our pick of some real talent. We are not the only ones that will be sniffing at the doors of guys like Armstrong. I fully understand the feeling that we have him now, let's get behind him and do the best for the club. I will always support the team. But I cannot help but continue to be incredulous over the appointment, it's far too important. LH, i would happy to get taken to the meeting if Glasgow is not too far. I think perhaps it is. I do think it is important to ask how they arrived at Wilko's appointment and if there is a way of submitting a question, then I will, because i really would like to know how it happened. As for Alun Armstrong and other strikers possibly on the market in the summer, this is precisely the reason we maybe should not be settling for a Dudfield. We all wet ourselves overs strikers and we wont succeed without goalscorers but we also need strong players in defence and need to inject some creativity in the midfield. The kind of guile that Gabby had whenever he was forced to drop into the middle. Not just the usual clogging hard running, try hard, almost tackling, no flair midfielders we have seen. While Hunt and Savage wasn't everyone's cup of tea, they were a nice combination. We have missed Hunty i think. We mustnt forget that we have to toughen up in defence too. Not just a mustnt forget, but a top priority. close But its not just about indviduals, it is about moulding a team, being tactcially astute and inspiring confidence.

Wonder Why? at 23:53:56 Monday April 28 2003
I wonder why TCMP prefers to only post on here now and again? could it have anything to do with the purile comments from the Sprinkler, Tag mob etc. Its time to find the adress for CC2

Sprinkler at 23:45:30 Monday April 28 2003
Ted, more complete tosh. Rarely wrong? I won't bore you with statistics. I really want to go into next season with a smile on my face but it will be more of a hoping the worst doesnt happen. All the talk of new players like Armstrong is very exciting. I still say that at a time when there will be plenty to choose from we should not entrust the future to a muppet. particularly now.

Anon at 22:55:50 Monday April 28 2003
needless to say I had the last laugh

Alan Partridge at 22:50:29 Monday April 28 2003
Hi, James, it's Alan here. No, don't put the phone down, I've got a great idea for a new series. It's called "I'm a prospective lower division chairman, I'm outta here". We get together some right characters, like an ego driven ex footballer, maybe someone with links to the international criminal underworld, a fat bald clown like figure..yes, you are getting the picture. Anyway, the aim of the game is ...

Mystic Meg at 22:47:47 Monday April 28 2003
........ not next season

Optimistic Meg at 22:34:34 Monday April 28 2003
Take heart, at least we finished higher in the league than the Dimones.

your right at 22:30:32 Monday April 28 2003
there's not many using it since relegation

anon at 21:09:12 Monday April 28 2003
is it a wonder people dont take this site seriously when youve got idiots like that talking a load of crap.

MRS TED at 21:02:15 Monday April 28 2003
My husband is a fat bastard.

Ted at 20:57:57 Monday April 28 2003
Good post Drilling! Please note that I did say at least ten games.However I'm quietly confident that come the start of the season and we start getting into that winning habit that has eluded us for many years,the thoughts of anymore off the field changes will diminish.I honestly feel more optimistic than I have done for many seasons,and as Mrs Ted will testify I'm rarely wrong.

The Drilling Cobbler at 20:33:16 Monday April 28 2003
Ironic that people are talking about Alun Armstrong - I read on ceefax over the weekend that he was to be released by Ipswich and thought at the time that he would make quite a good signing - he scored loads at Stockport and not so long ago was almost cutting it in the prem. At 28 he is the type of player who could spearhead a promotion and help re-establish us in div2 whilst the Morrisons and Asa's continue to improve. The Gills chap is right to say though that there will be no shortage of strikers available for next season - the knock on effect of ITV digital almost bankrupting many teams (especially in div1) means that many proven lower league strikers unable to get into div1 teams will be returning to their roots, Guy I and Alun A being two prime examples. The net result will be most of the top div3 teams next season will have potent forward lines. Money I feel will not be an issue because few teams will be looking to expand their squads so those who are made available will take any offer going. Looking ahead to next season, it is likely that Yeovil, Hull, Oxford and possibly Huddersfield(providing they sort themselves out) will be the front runners. No one in the 3rd(apart from Hull) has any real money, so if we are able to buy decent players then I see no reason(apart from the 'bleeding obvious!) why we cannot challenge for promotion. The big question is how much money is being made available and how well will it be spent? The problem with the 10game factor for a manager to prove themselves, it is normally only used in occasions where the manager has earnt 'extra time' - which I feel that Atkins did. Martin Wilkinson can surely not be judged on just 10 games next season, for starters it will probably take 10games for the new team to start to gell. My view on Bilko has been well documented on this site and will not mention it again until at least October, as Ted and others have said it is totally pointless and unproductive at a time when the clubs new owners are showing such intent to put things right. My season ticket cheque remains unsigned but it will be forthcoming once a couple of decent signings have been announced! You give me something and I'll give you something back mentality but I feel that after 16years blind loyalty and after the crap that I have to endure this season in particular my loyalty needs to be earnt. I'll be back on here once signings are announced to talk Cobblers once more but until then I will sit on the fence and wait for things to happen!

Anon at 17:36:48 Monday April 28 2003
yes it was Stoke who fielded an understrength team against Oldham, Us and wycombe should have complained but didnt.

Andy C (Gills fan) at 16:45:53 Monday April 28 2003
George a bit further down - I don't think you'll be inundated with Gills players coming to Sixfields in the summer. At the time of writing Guy Ipoua (already mentioned on this board) has been released and two others are negotiating new contracts. I'm sure Scally would like to offload several others but they're all still under contract so unless you're about to pay them lots of money I doubt even Richard Hill will be able to persuade them to move. Ipoua has been out of his depth in the First Division but scored a lot of goals for Scunthorpe and would probably be a decent signing for you. Then again there will be no shortage of strikers to choose from this summer - Coventry are offloading several for starters.

Durogbola Abiodun at 15:21:51 Monday April 28 2003
sir, i am a 16yrs old soccer player from Nigeria.i will like to join your club,because i find it difficult to continue here in Nigeria. please help me sir. thanks Durogbola Abiodun.

Anon at 15:20:22 Monday April 28 2003
You are spot on. I often drive past that ground and my daughters call them cheats every time we drive past.

Hotel Ender at 14:47:50 Monday April 28 2003
I have been reading in the paper today that Stoke City are to complain to the league because of Watford's unprofessionalism by playing a lot of reserves and fringe players in their 4-0 defeat at Brighton, thereby causing a few Stoke backside to twitch with the thought of returning to Div 2. Correct me if I'm wrong, but wasn't it Stoke that played at least 7 reserves/youth teamers at Oldham the year we went down under Atkins. I feel like e-mailing Stoke to remind them that what goes around comes around, but need confirmation.

cobblestone at 14:20:00 Monday April 28 2003
Richard Hill IS the manager! who is this martin wilkinson???

dyl at 13:19:57 Monday April 28 2003
Is it me or is Harper turning into Harpo? He's becomming a clown and he doesn't speak - what else explains the comedy mixup with Hope? He also needs to learn how to catch a cross. We've conceeded far to many goals where he's stayed rooted to his line rather than coming to collect the cross.

George - Bucks No1 Cobbler at 13:14:03 Monday April 28 2003
Also the guy who sits G85? (one row behind the club doctor) in the west stand?? Shut the F*ck up!!! He sits there next to his wife. He started moaning about the team and how we hadnt scored since swindon, it was swindon, no it was Notts County. Then when we scored 2, he moaned that we didnt attack more. Is this guy a complete moron? does he have a disability? why come to every match and slag off the team from start to finish? Yes we all have a go at players from time to time but not for fecking 90 minutes, the players could do no right for doing right in this guys eyes. Im 27 and he's in his 50's but I nearly smacked the Tw*t, and im not a voilent person. Listen Mate why dont you go and Feck off to RDFC and get on their cases

George - Bucks No1 Cobbler at 13:03:01 Monday April 28 2003
far too mant things to comment about on here!!!!! Good 2nd half performance from the boys - espesh Morison and hey even Stamp did well. Trolley needs a bit of confidence to pass it forward, did ok when he did. Frainy should have come out and did a lap of honour as should have all the players - incl Macca. Oh well. I to have my reservations about MW and the side he picks, BUT I also think Hill will be there and MW will almost be the director of football, but also bringing in his wisdom and experience (if any). However I too will be supporting the boys next season. Think Tommo should start is goal as well. Agree with ACV, we need a complete new back line, Sammo needed as cover - he wont manage 46 games next season and a left back to CC (CC can cover Haagreaves), also a couple of strikers. If Stamp fails to impress cloan him out to a conf team and let him get his confidence back up. If we have signed armstong and chilvers thats some good signings. Just wondering if Any released Gills players may come here? My friends flatmate is Duncan Gibb and From what Ive been told he doesnt think his brother is coming back here.

Ted at 12:47:24 Monday April 28 2003
I hope the club take a few security men over to that country? you know what them folks are like they kmight eat em alive?

Long time no see at 11:19:39 Monday April 28 2003
Hi, remember me. Haven't been on for a while. Can anyone tell me when we are going to appoint a manager? Atkins has been gone for ages and I think we need a manager before the summer. Anyone agree?

ntid at 10:16:38 Monday April 28 2003
i mentioned frainy bfore the game so beat you to it ,do you ever stop moaning you boring little man.can we just post wild unsubstantiated rumours from now till the start of the season,like usual ,cheers

LH at 10:01:13 Monday April 28 2003
Slim Martin if you need a lift to Trust Forum let me know because I believe that someone who feels so passionate about there opinion's would obviously welcome the opportunity to ask direct questions direct to the Manager .

LH at 09:58:30 Monday April 28 2003
If correct ,on paper quality signings allready . What about Shaun Goater ?

Apparently at 09:32:02 Monday April 28 2003
Liam Chilvers & Alun Armstrong have already signed for next season.

Deepcut Cobbler at 05:57:12 Monday April 28 2003
SlimMartin. Yes we all have a right to an opinion but the record is now worn out. COME ON YOU COBBLERS!!!

Hmmm. at 00:37:53 Monday April 28 2003
So do we back MW he brings us Tom Youngs, Reid, and Thompson from Fulham + 10 new players for the new season or Zebedee and realslimartin who want to see Frainy and Marco for another year and supposedly ignore the statistics they are so fond of spouting?

TRB Mark at 00:30:46 Monday April 28 2003
You creep Ted. Well I'm not apologising to Lucy! Call me a bad loser, yeah! And yes, you are right Lucy, the "anonimity" of the message board does bring out the worst in some people, me included, but next time we meet face to face Lucy, I'll buy you a drink to show there is no "real" hard feelings! Enjoy the match next week, I wish it was us that had a end of season cliff hanger to look forward to, even if it was avoiding relegation. It's not often a Cobblers season ends on a gutless whimper and it seems all the worse when juxtaposed to direones success. This messageboard has always welcomed supporters from other team (N'pton Gas, Andy Gills) who come and make valid points but I think most posters here would agree we have had enough purile crap from direones this season to last a lifetime. Well, I suppose that is an apology , of sorts. CTID

My clubs gone to the West Indies...Jamica? at 00:26:54 Monday April 28 2003
Trinidad on 9th May and Tobago on 11th May, you can even book a holiday with Indigo Sports Tours for �899 to catch the err action. sad not to we able to wave Frainy goodbye, Slimmartin is right he deserved the chance of a lap of honour. Thanks for the memories JF

zebedee at 00:17:54 Monday April 28 2003
finally, john frain has a heart of claret and i for one wish him a happy retirement if thats what happens. happy martinw? night all.

zebedee at 00:14:54 Monday April 28 2003
time for bed. but one more thing. au revoir and bon voyage to Marco Gabbiadini. one player it was worth every penny of my hard earned dosh to go and see. gutted that he could not have stayed for at least one more season in division three where he could have done a darlington for us. but theres another mystery to be worked out. is that a negative message? i guess so because there was a slight dig at the end. oh well.

bored 2 at 23:56:50 Sunday April 27 2003
Hallelujah! although i fear there will be a lot of people saying i told you so next season i fear.

therealslimmartinw at 23:56:34 Sunday April 27 2003
am actually waiting for something positive from someone else about John Frain but apparently my message was totally negative... oh well. Reading lessons are needed, i guess. And history.

bored at 23:53:09 Sunday April 27 2003
okay bored now children. play properly or daddy wilko won't read you a bed time story. or will he anyway? the facts are he only read five bedtime stories every fortnight. what a crap dad.

facts and statistics 2 at 23:51:42 Sunday April 27 2003
There are lies, damned lies and statistics. I think the post below proves that. The Martin Wilkinson figures speak for themselves, however. No amount of Thatcher style manipulation can change that.

Oh Go On Be Kind at 23:48:41 Sunday April 27 2003
Oh go on be kind at least give them 10 games next season to prove that they are not miserable downbeat gits.

Facts and Statistics at 23:46:17 Sunday April 27 2003
Its a fact, Springler, Tag, RealSlimW and Zebedee have posted on here 24 times this weekend and lets look at their record....POSTINGS 24....POSITIVE POSTINGS 0....NEGATIVE POSTINGS 24....OWN GOALS 2 many 2 count....The record speaks for itself.... Its no good people just burying their head in the sand and saying "look they really are Cobblers Fans Honest" The statistics say otherwise. They should move on now as they are just holding us back, no amount of faith is going to make them good Cobblers fans. Their record speaks for itself.

therealslimmartinw at 23:42:48 Sunday April 27 2003
..and still not a word about John Frain. While everyone beats their chest about what being a REAL fan is. I will go to be remembering one of the most thrilling moments in recent Northampton Town history, when Frainy scored THAT goal. I am well aware there are people within Sixfields that moan for moanings sake. I don't JUST moan. I happen to feel very strongly about having an inept manager in charge of our team. That's it. I felt very strongly about Atkins having to go when he did. That's it. In between times i have supported and praised and wold never think of slagging players off from the stand as some supporters do. That's there way of lettin goff steam, i understand it, i don't condone it. But for god sake when it comes to the crunch we love the club. We have different ways of expressing that and we won't agree. It doesnt make us any less of a supporter or fan. I for one won't slag anyone off for loving the club. But i will defend my right to say what i think because I passionately believe that Wilko is not right for us. I totally understand the view that says that we have to get behind him for thestart of the new season. To those who thinks this is a 'i told you so' scenario, i would say that that underestimates the feelings of those who care passionately about the club. I can't go to the trust meeting for geographic reasons. Otherwise i would be there and I wold be very active as I was when Atkins was finally depoosed and afterwards. But but i doubt saying i dont think Wilko shold be manager will wash when he is there, really. I have made my point in the Chron and on here, love it or hate it, that's fine. But i still say there is a strong sense of deja vu about all this. I hope Wilko turns it around and breaks the habit of a career but should we be in this situation. A situation where i note that even Ted accept the ten match theory... on a NEW manager. It's these awful choices that have cost this club.

Sprinkler at 23:29:09 Sunday April 27 2003
Ted, that's not exactly a vote of confidence from you. ONLY ten games? That is the precisely the problem. If we had a manager who we knew had a clean slate we could just start from point one. He hasn't. So all this negativity is not just me or martinw or tag or child's view or any number of other people who say the same old thing. It comes from the fact that we should not be in the position where we have committed money to a manager who by most people's reckoning even ted's has ten games. I mean sorry there is no logic there. I fully and totally understand the feeling that we should just get on with it but if everyone thought about it this situation stinks. I agree with martinw on the Cardoza front. I don't think they are so stupid. My gut feeling is that Good was sidelined so that if next season our current form continues, Martin Wilkinson will go on the behest of the Mr Cardoza.

Ted at 23:27:24 Sunday April 27 2003
No but I remember the one in Delapre Street.

While we are at it....... at 23:19:37 Sunday April 27 2003
.....do you remember the cobblers that used to be in Euston Road?

Ted at 23:15:13 Sunday April 27 2003
CTR Kettering..Glad to see that you've climbed down.

Ted at 23:12:39 Sunday April 27 2003
Beth..Do you remember Alton street?That's where I grew up,and it was a dog hole.You were obviously a member of one of the more fortunate families in Cotton.

John Frain at 23:03:07 Sunday April 27 2003
I was the man who probably scored the goal to acchive 1 of the best acchivements in may of the site users lifes. Show me some fucking respect and give me a big big payoff.

The Trust and all things Cobblers at 22:24:42 Sunday April 27 2003
What sprinkler, slim Martin tag et al all forget is that because of the Trust fans have had a say (and a vote) at the boardroom table on every issue they have raised i.e Atkins, GDS, appointments of managers and due to the open forums every fan has had the right top have thier own say to the people who have made the decisions. For what its worth I thought TCMP and the Trust were right about Atkins and GDS although the stance taken by the trust at both times was hardly welcomed by the so called sheep who just go along so ctr ketterings point is invalid. Off the pitch the club has moved on volumes since the Cardozas took over and for the first time in years we are not looking over our shoulder wondering when the administrator is gonna come in and turn the lights out. The point i read into TCMP's post was less about Wilkinson as this is just this weeks gripe. The fact of the matter is that when you read down these pages it's the same few people moaning but about different things as the mood takes them. That's why so many people come on and post against them cause they are fed up with their negitivity. MW is hardly going to succeed if half of the support are on his back waiting to look smug and say "there you are we told you so" and yet I get the feeling people like sprinkler tag and Slim Martin would get more joy and satisfaction from being proved right than they would from seeing the Cobblers under MW succeed. If being a Cobblers fan means having your say but being loyal whatever the outcome then I am a Cobblers fan. If it means moaning about everything and anything and just slagging people off for loving the club then I am not. The confused may be better of finding something better to do with their Saturday afternoons although sending them to Nene Park sounds a bit harsh, a lethel injection would be far kinder, failing that we could give out prozac subscriptions with season tickets to cheer some of you miserable sods up a bit.

CTR Kettering at 22:19:13 Sunday April 27 2003
My last post was obviously aimed at Ted.

flood at 22:18:09 Sunday April 27 2003
because its mostly under water

CTR Kettering at 22:12:58 Sunday April 27 2003
I don't think I suggested anything as ridiculous as boycotting the club over MW. I shall be renewing my season ticket as always, and getting behind the team next season, and I'll be the first to admit I was wrong if MW is successful. And I genuinely hope he is. That doesn't mean to say I can't voice my reservations about him on here, now. But then again, perhaps I haven't got 'real love and passion for the club' like you. And unless you're prepared to pay my wages for a day, I won't be there on Thursday, I'll be at work. But if you talk as much there, as you do here, I doubt I'd get a word in edgeways anyway.

LH at 21:59:17 Sunday April 27 2003
Slim Martin, Are you going to the Trust Forum on Thusday to ask MW directly about his record ? Maybe if you did we could reach 'closure' on this subject. PLEASE !

Beth at 21:58:39 Sunday April 27 2003
What slums are you on about TEd? I've lived in Far Cotton all my life and NEVER seen a slum.

Mark Swain's Butler at 21:27:52 Sunday April 27 2003
Anybody know the dates of the matches in Trinidad and Tobago?

Ted at 21:08:54 Sunday April 27 2003
Lucy..Don't flatter yourself you most certainly haven't caused me any upset.Growing up in the slums of Far Cotton have made me the king of confrontation.

Lucy at 21:03:50 Sunday April 27 2003
Well it will go down to the last game after Saturday's 0-0, much excitement and sleepless nights this week. I seem to have caused a bit of upset with Ted and TRB Mark, surprised that Mr Pacan took such exception, usually we get on fine but it appears that posting on this board brings out the worse in people. That wasn't my intention so I'll say fare the well and wish you well for next season.

Ralph at 20:55:46 Sunday April 27 2003
err the Ralph at 20.15 weren't me neither!

Ted at 20:38:19 Sunday April 27 2003
Ray...Before I'm warned,that was not me at 20:24:33

Ted at 20:31:27 Sunday April 27 2003
Sprinkler...Turn up Thursday and air your legitimate concerns to his face. You might feel better afterwards and be prepared too give him the benefit of your very large doubt.I also stick to my point that at this point in time a true fan must get behind the club 100% and that includes the management.If not, we start the season with a negative attitude expecting the worst, and surely you must agree that the Cardoza's need all the supporters right behind them.Are you not going to accept that Wilkinson is manager whether we like it or not?.That is not going to change until at least 10 games into the new season, and only then if your wish comes true and we find ouselves at the bottom of the division.

Ted at 20:24:33 Sunday April 27 2003
It would be good if it meant the end of the trust.

CobbComm at 20:17:17 Sunday April 27 2003
Would TCMP resign if Atkins came back?

Ralph at 20:15:22 Sunday April 27 2003
Bringing back Atkins would be a good idea, but I doubt he'd come as long as we have certain burly characters on the board!

ntid at 20:13:31 Sunday April 27 2003
"i couldnt see hilly running the show" who the fuck was it then in the tech area for the whole game ???????

Don't be silly at 20:10:00 Sunday April 27 2003
Until you have a lot more money than I know you have - otherwise you would have bought the team before, being such good fans - what the hell do you 'we won't accept it' idiots intend to do? Please set out your intentions rather than boring us with 'the worst record....'.

Towny at 20:08:47 Sunday April 27 2003
The real dim martinwelk..zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz

Fantastic laugh! at 20:06:54 Sunday April 27 2003
"Zebedee at 19:28:16 Sunday April 27 2003 I hope i AM wrong for the sake of the team. HOwever in my opinion we shouldnt wait till it goes wrong." Doctor: "I'm taking your right leg off?" Patient: "Is it that bad?" Doctor: "No, but we don't want to wait until it is." Boom! Boom!

FAO A Childs View at 20:04:37 Sunday April 27 2003
What are you going to do you boring sod? Lead a revolution? Buy out the Cardozas and start again? So Gabbs scored 50 in 2 seasons before he came here and - of course - 50 in 2 seasons here? Atkins was crap at Cambridge and Birmingham and - of course - crap here?

therealslimmartinw at 19:56:05 Sunday April 27 2003
THE FRAIN SCANDAL: Crying shame about Frain. REAL fans in my view WOULD give a shit about that. But i don't see many people apart from Child's View even give it a mention. That's sad. The man was a Cobblers legend and we really couldn't give a shit but are more than willing to stand up and be counted for a man whose record is one of the worst in the Football League... ever. Final home game and there is NO farewell. THAT is the real scandal not the fans who care about the club point pointing out what I think is bleeding obvious. That Martin Wilkinson IS NOT the man for the job. Two wins in thirteen, yesterday ended a run of six defeats on the trot? Not the kind of thing i want to tell my grandchildren thanks. Thanks those who have pointed out that HE IS the manager, though. Nice to be notified of that fact. I of course totally concur with those on here that it doesn't mean we have to accept it. Bring back Atkins? It would be preferable.. it really would. At least we would have more points. All power to the Cardozas though for clearing the debt. A good financial footing is crucial.. as is an early return to the Second and not another relegation struggle. My hopes are on David Cardoza making the toughest decision of them all. In fairness it could end up just deja vous with the first ten games in the third being the point where real judgements will be made. When did that happen before? Then we had Willo, and automatic promotion. Mr Cardoza said now is the time for everyone to get behind Sergeant Wilko. That's where I will draw the line i'm afraid not to do a 'told you so' thing but because am of the opinion he will be bad for the club based on facts and figures both past and present which I consider to be indisputable.

Redscouse at 19:42:39 Sunday April 27 2003
To M. and Jules, glad you have had a rethink about the season tickets,itwouldn't be the same on Saturdays without finding out if Jules won his skittle games!!!!!!See you soon !

bloody madness of not at 19:39:22 Sunday April 27 2003
Over the bar is fantastic................um............no comment .........bingy

johnfrainisbigleggy at 19:38:27 Sunday April 27 2003
I was at Nene Park on Tony Clark's orders. I know when I'm not wanted.

Proper Fan 3 at 19:36:13 Sunday April 27 2003
F.. off Proper Fan 1 you Martin Wilkinson hater you.

Proper Fan 2 at 19:35:34 Sunday April 27 2003
Bring back Ian Atkins!

Tag at 19:34:41 Sunday April 27 2003
Where was JF? I agree with child's view that it would be real shame to not be able to say goodbye to one of our heroes. Incidentally, it was good to see Morrison get on the score sheet even if it was a tap in. If our young players are good enough they should get a chance. I could not see any signs that Hilly was running the show and cannot see how he could when Martin Wilkinson is the manager. First goal was a total foul up defensively and is typical of what has gone on this season. As for the anti-Wilkinson crew being traitors. Well how wrong you are. If the MP thinks we are then maybe we are better going to Nene Park but it will take more than Mr Clarke to make me give up my season ticket.

Zebedee at 19:28:16 Sunday April 27 2003
I hope i AM wrong for the sake of the team. HOwever in my opinion we shouldnt wait till it goes wrong.

FAO A Child's View at 19:07:58 Sunday April 27 2003
Probably he comes on here a bit and has seen about 'get rid of fucking Zimmer' 'about time they got rid of the useless sod' etc and decided he could do without it 'in the flesh'. And as for sprinkler and zebedee - it needs to be said. Why? So you can say 'I told you so' if it goes wrong? I bet we don't see you again if it goes well. Except, of course, under another name saying 'I told you we'd be OK'.

Towny at 19:05:06 Sunday April 27 2003
Sprinkler,real dim welk, CTR......zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz

Zebedee at 19:00:35 Sunday April 27 2003
It seems clear that even the most positive fan has grave reservations about Martin Wilkinson. Sixfields is going to be rather empty then. If they have all be sent to Nene Park.

Sprinkler at 18:55:45 Sunday April 27 2003
Well done Ted. Magnanimous as ever. But why reply to CTR Kettering when he is clearly not a loyal fan such as your good role model self. I can understand where you are coming from I am fed up with being down all the time but i love the club just as much as anyone and i wont be told that airing legitimate concerns about Martin Wilkinson is a crime punishable by deportation from my usual place in Sixfields. As for negativity, i think there is a big difference between those of us who comment about things that have a base on statistics, like tag, like martinw, childs view et all and people who just diss for the sake of it. Dissing for dissing's sake is a bit dull. martinw is an easy target. i suppose I am and the rest. Why? Because we say it as we see it? I too had doubts about the previous takeover but probably thought it was best for the club. The money matters and all that. I kept my views to myself. Some didn't are they to be castigated by who think different. Grow up. Unlike child's view I would love to feel the glow that next season willsee a new dawn for Northampton Town. I doubt it under the present management and I think those like martinw who have put the case quite eloquently if a bit to vitriolic perhaps have got a point. Sorry that doesnt fit in with everyone's brave new world sorry that means just more negativity as some people call it but it needs to be said and i think there has got to be a change.

RDFC at 18:25:46 Sunday April 27 2003
http://forum.onecenter.com/rdfc/

d'oh! at 18:16:23 Sunday April 27 2003
gabbi's already on a grand a goal bonus.......

Mansfield at 17:47:57 Sunday April 27 2003
Does anyone know of any booze cruises that are set up for next weekend that may have a couple of spare seats?

moany from west at 17:29:34 Sunday April 27 2003
why not give gabbi a low wage contract with big goal bonus and there is nothing wrong with dudfield if we sign him he,ll be good for 12 or more goals next season!.all we need is a back four and a quality targetman last one steve howard!!!!!!

Anon at 17:01:45 Sunday April 27 2003
Brilliant ted bloody brilliant!

Ted at 16:55:23 Sunday April 27 2003
CTR Kettering..So you have your doubts about MW.If you had read my comments from last week you will find that I also have my reservations.So what are we going to do?Shall we boycott the club until they get someone in as manager who we can all agree on, shall we still turn up at the matches and moan continuously and wait for it all to go wrong or shall we do the only positive thing and get behind the decision makers who are desperately trying to take this club forward? .Perhaps you are one of those that still grasp onto the conspiracy theory of a connection with MK or that the Cardoza's have no interest in football but just want to get a foothold in the future development of the land surrounding Sixfields.This club has enough negativity this season to last a lifetime and it can't go on like this.At some point those with a real love and passion for the club have to take the positives out of every situation.Only time will tell if you can have the satisfaction of " I told you so".However I prefer to believe that thanks to the new board ,the club for the first time in years is financially stable,that we have a managerial partnership that can work well together and a team that with a few quality additions can be a be a good one.I shall be there on Thursday,and I look forward to hearing your difficult questions.

A Childs View at 15:56:58 Sunday April 27 2003
Where was Frainy yesterday? If he's injured so be it but we needed to say goodbye - why no walk on the pitch at any stage? The guy has been great for the club over the years, its right that he's released as he's getting old now but we needed to say goodbye - where's the clubs sense of history and pride? We don't have much too look back on so its even more important we hail our biggest players. Gabbi got a warm send off but John deserves one more - in the absence of a chance yesterday I put it on record now - Frainy is a legend, scorer of the magic goal in our 100th year and a true Cobblers hero. Thanks for your committment and come back any time - you'll always be welcome in my book. I'd even go a far as naming part of the ground after him. Enjoyed yesterday once we woke up, nice to get something out of the game and break the losing streak. I'm not too fussed about any of the released players, apart from Gill, and with recent announcements about the club being on a more secure financial footing we've a future to look forward too. This puts us way ahead of a number of clubs and could see us do well. I've my reservations about MW, however, it appears to me he is more Director of Football with Hilly calling the shots during the match - what is the actual situation? Anyone know? How are the responsibilities split across MW and Hilly? In any event, I'm getting behind the duo because I'm fed up of being negative - football is supposed to be fun and if the Cardoza's trust MW with THEIR money I'm happy to defer to their judgement until proved otherwise - my season ticket has been brought already (too bloody expensive still when you compare to other clubs!) The shopping list for next season is massive. We're ok in the keeper department, need a left back, 3 centre halves and 2 right backs. Midfield wise I think we need 2 genuine wide midfielders, another centre mid and 2 quality, first choice strikers - that's 11 players, most of who need to be first team quality so its going to be an interesting close season. I'm not fussed about seeing Reid or Dudfield here next season but I would like to see Rahim signed up - he looked quality to me and if we play an expansive passing game could be brilliant next season. Bye bye to Cobblers comments for a bit - I'm having a few months off to recharge the batteries for next season. Cobblers forever.

Proper Fan at 14:06:07 Sunday April 27 2003
We should not sack Ian Atkins.

Anon at 13:44:47 Sunday April 27 2003
Does Dudfield look like a footballer CTR?

Cert at 13:44:04 Sunday April 27 2003
Cobblers are 33/1 to be relegated to the conference within the next 2 years, I've had 50.00 get on it, it's well worth it.

CTR Kettering at 13:29:49 Sunday April 27 2003
First off, don't judge anyone by yesterday's game, it meant absolutely nothing. Dudfield has been improving, but does he look like a goalscorer ? Having said this I would never boo him, or any other Cobblers player, not even McGregor. I agree with the recent postings, I don't rate MW. As a life long suppoter I think I have that right. All this back MW or piss off is rubbish (Ted). I am one of the moaners who DOES attend Open Forums. The problem is no-one wants to answer difficult questions there. It is just preaching to the converted, most people apparently believe whatever they are told, like so many sheep. Last July I attacked GDS, called him a terrorist sympathiser etc, for which I was more or less ridiculed, and a show of hands still produced a 99% majority in favour of GDS taking over. The rest is of course history. But if we all followed your lead Ted, GDS would now be running the club, if we still had one. Some of us moaners actually care about the club more than you do.

Anon at 13:16:48 Sunday April 27 2003
real slim - are you the idiot from Aylesbury? Ask Reid about Wilko

FAO therealslimmartinw at 13:09:32 Sunday April 27 2003
Are you the twat who calls himself sid the pig on the official site? He goes on and on and on about his pet gripes just like you. Which part of 'Martin Wilkinson IS the manager of NTFC?' do you fail to comprehend?

M at 13:00:31 Sunday April 27 2003
FAO Redscouse. We've had a rethink, we might just renew our season tickets. If wecan get the kids for 50 an 100 then we will. If the club wont allow us to, then maybe not. If we do, the first pints on you and Ping Pong

anon at 12:49:06 Sunday April 27 2003
Sixfields travel club player of the year PAUL HARSLEY

Martin Wilkinson at 12:38:25 Sunday April 27 2003
Can't you so call fans stop wingeing and get behind the team. No wonder we are in the state we are in. Isn't my 91 points out of a possible 273 managerial career impressive enough? The fact we have won nine points out of a possible 39 while i have been in charge at Sixfields should be sufficient proof that I am the future. And the future is ......

Tag at 12:30:22 Sunday April 27 2003
B.... me ted you are so patronising!!! who the hell made you judge and jury about what a supporter of the club is, you sanctimonious nonce. unless you back the management you are no fan of the club? never mind take you head out of the dune, get it out your ass. to be crude about it. and if you or anyone else want to make a list of those who do not back Martin Wilkinson try going down to Sixfields on any given saturday, too late now, and you will not find it hard. its the blind leading the blind. and ted you are blind.

therealslimmartinw at 12:22:52 Sunday April 27 2003
Mmmmmm. This is the Ian Atkins debate all over again. The usual suspects say we must stick with it and don't betray the club. While others say this was mistake and something has to change. Of course I belong to the latter camp. But then certain people who are still on here now I remember crying traitor back in the latter days of Atkins and it can anyone now say in hindsight that that was not the right move? I understand why people want to give it a chance and they are entitled to their opinion. I resent those that say that if you do not back Wilko then you should go off to Nene Park or are no fan of the club. That's deny the right of having two sides to an argument and that I am afraid is undemocratic. And certain people making comments on here are said to belong to a Government that is supposed to uphold democracy. I won't tire of repeating the statistics because I firmly believe Wilko is not good for the club - yes in a lower capacity, but not as the leader as players who were under him in his Carlisle days will testify. Bear in mind, players usually play harder for a new manager. So if two wins in the first 13 games is the best we can hope for. Hello Vauxhall Conference. There is nothing offensive about Wilko he is just so clearly the most unlikely person to do that job since his namesake took over a certain North Eastern club. And god, you could hardly call him unqualfied or lacking in previous history. Gabby's not a serious proposition unless you want to take risks, but at least an UNPROVEN reputation is better than a VERY POOR one.

DR4E at 12:06:17 Sunday April 27 2003
http://thediamonds.web1000.com/

LH at 11:46:22 Sunday April 27 2003
As previously posted I thought Dudfield shows sometimes that he may have a bit of Football in him. His performances have been 'alright'and getting better.But next Season we need players who are better than 'alright'. Maybe Dudfield could turn into a good player ? This depends on the Judgement of MW & RH ,they are in a better position to Judge the lads potential more than we are. Wilko was right in releasing Marco , still got great skill & vision but you cant employ a player who can only perform for an hour at the most. Overall never really reached the heights we anticpated but thanks for the Cardiff goal Marco , one of my great Cobblers memories .

Kingsthorpe Knuckle Scraper at 11:01:50 Sunday April 27 2003
Ug!

Heptangle at 10:15:42 Sunday April 27 2003
That's exactly what I thought!

Bloody Madness Of Not at 09:22:27 Sunday April 27 2003
Kimberly footspar over a jar of custard creams,lightly sprinkered with a cheese based mixture.um...............me like you fishboot

Anon at 09:03:04 Sunday April 27 2003
pleeeeeeeeeeease!

Anon at 09:02:07 Sunday April 27 2003
and get rid of Dudfield.

Long time suffering Cobbler at 08:51:44 Sunday April 27 2003
Dudfield had a good game yesterday but overall throughout his loan period good enough to get a contract allowing for the fact that he has played out of position? I think the most important PR exercise the club can achieve is to make the earliest possible signing of a proven goalscorer, the man who is going to make the difference between us being in the also rans in Div 3 and up at the top.

gaz at 08:48:43 Sunday April 27 2003
I posted a question to the club last weekend asking who was being retained, and, when I finally got my official response they included Reid as being contracted for next season. Maybe why they were willing to let Hope go?

Gedgie False Teeth Limited at 06:28:19 Sunday April 27 2003
When you die please note we stock the worlds finest Tombstones in Old Stratford

Microsoft at 06:27:24 Sunday April 27 2003
Please buy the Worlds Number 1 Software, none of our profits go to the Cobblers

The Dowg at 01:53:30 Sunday April 27 2003
Yo Yo Yo. Listen up yo bitches and crack whores if you dissin the town well yo all fuck of to den at the nene cuz we dont need yo biches ass moaning so yeah What Up. Can't wait to get my season ticket next yr for real. Yo Yo Yo The Dowg

Surely Not at 00:42:12 Sunday April 27 2003
Dudfield is crap and if he signs for us then that sets the standard of the type of player we will be looking to bring in. So much for Wilkinson's quality 1st and 2nd division players!! We are on the road to nowhere!

Dudfield at 23:55:48 Saturday April 26 2003
I agree Dudfield seems to get better game by game another inspired signing by MW along with that of Tom Youngs. It will be interesting to find out who else he has lined up.

CP at 23:32:58 Saturday April 26 2003
Hillies report on the offal site says that "9 of the starting line up today will be with us next season" with Marsh and Hope being the 2 that have been released that must therefore mean that we have offered terms to Dudfield. I think he could do ok for us, I think he's got gradually better with each game, despite playing in a variety of positions and still not being fully match fit.

Too many at 22:25:51 Saturday April 26 2003
perhaps we have got too many midfielders, particularly left wingers, we have got Hargreaves or CC or Rahim. We even had TCMP and Michael Foot in the stands!! how many left wingers can a club cope with?

Old Stratford Cobbler at 21:34:21 Saturday April 26 2003
We want more Memory Lane adverts on this site! John Atkinson is a God! You're only jealous,Ted!

Glenn at 21:25:26 Saturday April 26 2003
Well Said, Well Said. Much better performance today going forward, even if it is difficult to say whether Plymouth were really all that bothered. I'd agree that the side will look very good if we can buy four decent defenders (with Sammo as cover and CC getting better that should be enough) and a burly striker. Midfield with Chris H, Harsley, Trollope (played well today), Rickers, Rahim, Derek (maybe one other) to choose from will be good enough for D3, and Youngs, Morison, one of Stamp/Dudfield and the massively important signing of a decent, powerful striker and we've no reason to suspect that next season won't be a lot of fun for the supporters. Interesting comment about retaining Gabbiadini - I think it would be daft to not at least give him an offer as we saw today that he can come on against tired legs and make things happen. I doubt that we will, though.

Ted at 21:04:29 Saturday April 26 2003
Atkinson..No advertising on this site without Rays permission.

oooh ennit luvly at 21:03:52 Saturday April 26 2003
All the mentions we keep getting on the Wobblers site.

Well Said at 21:01:45 Saturday April 26 2003
well said tcmp it's about time someone stood up to all the "i know best" whingers and downbeats. Well done MW and RH despite us having a poor central defense (apologies Sammo, you were a great servant to the club)we still fought back. We should try and hang onto Reid but bring in at least two 6ft 5in centre backs and find a right back with the class of CC The midfield is shaping nicely Duddfield is a real find and Youngs will shine up front or in the middle. We then just need a proven goalscorer with expierience at banging goals in for fun in Div 3 (perhaps we should offer Marco a 1yr on reduced money?) All in all despite relegation I am already looking forward to next year and I will definately be at Mansfield next week to send off the old squad who coming? all invited bar tags, splinter and Zebedee.

Ted at 20:58:23 Saturday April 26 2003
Nice to see some positive news in the Chronic regarding the clubs financial position.At last we have financial stability and a chairman who is not only affluent but has generously put his money where his mouth is.The future is at last looking good for my beloved team,andI will say it again.Anyone who doesn't get behind the club at this exciting time is not,and never has been a real supporter of the club.Remember you can question Wilkinson and Hill face to face on Thursday night at the meeting if you have any particular concerns,but I doubt any of you moaners will be there.

Memory Lane VINYL Records, FISH MARKET at 20:48:36 Saturday April 26 2003
That is definately open on Wednesdays/Fridays and Saturdays, and has some old Northampton Town photos from beginning of the 1900s on display outside shop!! and a knackered old ex Hotel Ender working inside!!!!

Shades at 20:47:06 Saturday April 26 2003
Is it open this Sunday?

The Lamplighter at 20:46:55 Saturday April 26 2003
Is it open this Sunday?

The Hotel End at 20:46:43 Saturday April 26 2003
Is it open this Sunday?

Northampton Castle at 20:46:29 Saturday April 26 2003
Is it open this Sunday?

Emporium Arcade, Market Place Northampton at 20:46:13 Saturday April 26 2003
Is it open this Sunday?

WELLINGBOROUGH ZOO at 20:45:42 Saturday April 26 2003
Is it open this Suday?

west stand woman at 20:31:58 Saturday April 26 2003
i thought that it was a good game today and we should have had all 3 points each and every 1 of the lads who was on the pitch done their bit and if they do it next season we will come straight back up!!! all we need to do is get behinde martin wilkinson and richard hill i think they can do a good job if given the chance a big well done to paul harsley for picking up most of the awards

Who Cares at 20:06:58 Saturday April 26 2003
If anyone that has watched Northampton regularly now starts supporting RD, thats up to them, they were never Cobblers true fans, who needs them, when the Dire ones come crashing back (not sour grapes - the reality of no support and dwindling future funds in a higher league, with a more level playing field), PLEASE DO NOT COME BACK AND SAY YOU ARE A COBBLERS FAN! when we are back up and up and up!!!!!!!!!!!!

Give it a rest at 20:02:20 Saturday April 26 2003
never mind give him a chance the knockers should definatly give it a rest or as was said earlier sod off to nene park

GIVE HIM A CHANCE . . . GIVE HIM SOME TIME . . . at 19:58:20 Saturday April 26 2003
P12 W2 D2 L8 F8 A24 Pts8 (12 games is quarter of a season!!) and we have only scored in five games out of twelve, great stats huh?

LH at 19:56:16 Saturday April 26 2003
Zebedee get your head out of Ermintrudes ass & look at the wider picture youself . Do you really think running MW down will get you anywhere . Nice passing footie today lads , Harper needs to loose weight close season , very flat footed. Adios off 'Down Town'

Anon at 19:52:42 Saturday April 26 2003
m

Tedhidingunderanonymousname at 19:34:22 Saturday April 26 2003
nuff said

Unsteady at 19:33:15 Saturday April 26 2003
Ooops there goes the Second Division. Like laughing as you head for the gas chamber.

Head at 19:32:05 Saturday April 26 2003
get your head out of your arse zebedee, you may just see that the suns about to break from the clouds.

Steady on at 19:30:54 Saturday April 26 2003
Steady on Tag "better performance" "good fight back"? too positive for you mate stick to slagging people off its more your style.

Zebedee at 19:23:42 Saturday April 26 2003
Get your head out of the that dune Ted and look at the wider picture.

Tag at 19:19:48 Saturday April 26 2003
One better performance does not a future make although it was a good fight back. I for one are not going to wet myself over it. Bear in mind we now have 13 games under Martin Wilkinson and two wins. Statistics which were very much relevant this season because you might have noticed we were relegated and will become more and more relevant next season. Ted everyone is entitled to an opinion. Just because it dont go along with yours does not mean they are imposters. You would have done well in the Third Reich.

Fair Play Lucy at 18:54:27 Saturday April 26 2003
......one thing I do know is that you do have wit (which is sadly lacking here)

Judge Pickles at 18:51:16 Saturday April 26 2003
Well done Tag - seems you to have great leadership qualities - 1) You too are quoting the same stats about Wilko & 2)You never admit a mistake (twice misreading my postings) - there is clearly a future in conservative politics for you my boy.

ntid at 18:46:54 Saturday April 26 2003
bugger me stampy's learning to jump, hope his upturn in form continues,also what was morrison on tranmeres boys pushed him around on tues but he won so many battles today well done lad.good to see cc back and playing with some confidence

Footie at the Footie at 18:35:23 Saturday April 26 2003
It was brilliant to see Micheal Foot at the game today, he shook my hand on the way up to the game, top bloke, best Prime Minister we never had. How old is he? anyone know? I hope whatever his age that I am still travelling 100's of miles to see the Cobblers when I am his age.

What about? at 18:32:41 Saturday April 26 2003
Tag what about Tom Youngs as an example of "are you really saying the players he has signed have been much cop? " or did you forget him?

Fair Play Lucy at 18:32:01 Saturday April 26 2003
OK, perhaps we could be a friend (Who�s taking the line now?) & yes I don�t know all those things about you � the names a bit of a clue though � LITSWD (hopefully Lennon not John)- so you could be male or female - please don't be a Mail reader - do like shellfish - be sensible left of centre - cars & holidays are not important - musical instruments are.

The Future at 18:30:14 Saturday April 26 2003
Good battling performance by the Cobbs today particularly by Duddfield (a MW signing) who looks better every game. Great to see Morrison get his first league goal for the club and the fact that it is MW again who has given him the chance to establish himself unlike Broads or Fenwick shows that Wilkinson has an eye for the future and yet we have to put up with dimwits like sprinkler and Zebedee running the club down. TCMP is right we either have to get behind the club including MW and RH or else we will just keep looking for someone else to blame. We are far too negative and bandying irrelevent statistics around means instead of looking ahead there are still too many people only willing to keep looking back. Tom Youngs was an excellent capture by MW if thats the type of player he has in mind then I think the games won column on his record may start to rise.UTC

TRB Mark at 18:30:03 Saturday April 26 2003
It's amazing how many direones fans I get asking me if I'm going to start supporting RDFC instead of the Cobblers now they are in a div above us. Just proves they know or understand sod all about loyalty. For direones fans thier loyalty is torn between the club or the garden centre. And Lucy, you sound such a arrogant arse who has decided to have a bit of banter now that your team is promoted. Where have you been the rest of the season? Are you the sad cow who was on the radio saying "Poor old Max, had such a tough year so he deserves direones to get promoted." Try telling that to the 1,000 people who were thrown out of a job.

FAO Pedant at 18:17:24 Saturday April 26 2003
It is not actually a spelling error, but you are, actually, a twat!

FAO Ted at 18:15:33 Saturday April 26 2003
Right again Ted. Always hated Anon, but these 'names' are not real people.

Ted at 18:03:50 Saturday April 26 2003
Well done to the Cobblers today.It looks like Richard Hill is starting to influence the team.Much more passing football and no little passion.As I have said before anyone who is already slating the management is no fan of the Cobblers,and more than likely an impostor.

TCMP & Stonhill OUT at 17:32:34 Saturday April 26 2003
nuff said

TCMP's Spell Checker at 16:08:15 Saturday April 26 2003
Today's spelling error - "there taxes" = WRONG! but "their taxes" = CORRECT! See Me for more lines, Anthony!

Anon at 14:11:37 Saturday April 26 2003
Pardon.

Zebedee at 14:07:38 Saturday April 26 2003
I too am rather perplexed by TCMP's view. I respect his work for the club, but if he is saying anyone who doesn't agree with him should go to Nene Park, well I am sorry that's not on. If that's the amount of respect he has for the fans, who believe it or not, pay hard earned cash to watch the kind of football we have had to put up with, then he should not be anywhere near a position of responsibility. I for one do not want to wait to see what happens to the club once we are at the bottom of the Third.

Sprinkler at 14:04:18 Saturday April 26 2003
Mmmmmm digging up the past, huh. Irrelevant, huh. Okay. For us, he has managed 12 games, won 2 and lost eight. Eight points out of apossible 36. Yes you are right, he IS the future. Yup, that is common sense. It's time to wake up. Being a Cobblers fan is not just about undying support, it's about facing the fact. And i think we know what the facts are.

Sprinkler at 14:04:16 Saturday April 26 2003
Mmmmmm digging up the past, huh. Irrelevant, huh. Okay. For us, he has managed 12 games, won 2 and lost eight. Eight points out of apossible 36. Yes you are right, he IS the future. Yup, that is common sense. It's time to wake up. Being a Cobblers fan is not just about undying support, it's about facing the fact. And i think we know what the facts are.

Tag at 13:59:51 Saturday April 26 2003
Well said Sprinkler. What on earth is the MP on about, unless he was part of the process that got Wilkinson the job in the first place. Mr MP, maybe it is you that should head off to Nene Park if you are really saying that appointing Fenwick and then Wilkinson with their records was a competent decision. And are you really saying the players he has signed have been much cop? Maybe martinw should dig out those statistics again if he has not buggered off to Nene Park. No I know, I will present them, before heading to the tavern for a swifty. Martin Wilkinson's managerial career, 90 GAMES 22 WINS 44 LOST. Rrrrrrrrrrrrrespect.

Truth Hurts at 13:59:31 Saturday April 26 2003
Whats up sprinkler don't you like it when someone speaks up with a bit of common sense? Most of us agree with TCMP that despite what the club does that there will be those like you ready to have a knock. MW and RH have not had a chance to prove themselves and already so called fans are having a go at them. It was this negative thinking that in my view contributed to us going down. If thats the case I hope you do bugger off to Nene Park and have the same effect on them next year. Just what is it you are gravely concerned with? digging up irelevant facts from the past about stop gap appointments at Carlisle who had no money to spend and a chairman who was trying to close the club is not a comparison that should be trusted? TCMP is probably better off without your vote, but he has just won mine so thats equalled it out I suppose.

Towny at 13:58:31 Saturday April 26 2003
How long have these,the real dim shady,tag,zebedee and all the anons,been supporting the cobblers,not long enough to see real bad times obviously, shall we bring back,Crearand,Keen,Walker,Barton, Barnwell ,Oh and Johnny Petts all worked miracles didnt they!! whoever manages this club these tossers wont be happy,a couple of defeats and theyll be back on here whining again.... Lay off Wilko hes our manager now,get used to it !!

Sprinkler at 13:52:13 Saturday April 26 2003
TCMP, nobody is knocking Martin Wilkinson for the sake of doing so. They are criticsing him for his record. If you did nothing for your constituency you would expect to be criticsed and lose in the next election. As for Martin Wilkinson having managerial prowess, well the facts and figures speak for themselves. Telling those of us who are gravely concerned about the present situation to ship out of Nene Park is appalling. I know where my X will be going in any future election.

Ralph at 13:43:14 Saturday April 26 2003
Nothing quite like seeing a politician when he is riled, right on Tone!!

Lucy at 13:37:37 Saturday April 26 2003
Hi Ted, interested in your quote 'OUR love for our club is as strong as ever', not judging by what I read here and in the local papers it isn't. I'm not here to gloat, I follow the Diamonds as my grandfather player for them and I was watching him back in the Beazer Midland League days, supporting the club through thin and thick (at the moment). There's nothing like a bit of rivalry but I take exception to being called an 'inbred', if you knew anything of genetics you might better understand your comments. Still like most on 'residents associations' you know what is best for me and for everyone, you have your opinions and you have your politics . . . but most of all Ted you have yourself, and without doubt that is what matters most to you.

TCMP at 13:29:34 Saturday April 26 2003
Ironic though it may seem Mr Venn, I too pay my taxes at 40% to help pay my own wages, as I have done to pay the wages of every Public Servant since I left school. Including those who work for the Inland Revenue. The point isn't whether or not the Cobblers should pay there taxes (of course they should) the issue is why does the Inland Revenue treat clubs up and down the country differently? All clubs are struggling post ITV Digital and the wage hikes that resulted from the promise of money that did not arrive. Of course when wages drop then so will the take for the revenue.Are you saying it's right that the Cobblers should have to pay its debt mostly up front and then at the behest of the revenue irrespective of the difficulties that could cause whilst at the same time they wipe out Leicster City's tax bill just as they get promoted to the Prem? Or that Willie Carson at Swindon should be given a nice tax payment holiday to pay when he can whilst other clubs are being threatened with winding up orders? The election for trust director was conducted last month in the same fashion as it has been since the Trust was formed 11 years ago. Those elected at the agm who have two years expierience on the exec committee are eligable for nomination and election. If there are more than one candidate (this year there was not) then a postal ballot is organised. If you want the job come and get involved and I will gladly step aside if you prove your worth.As for whether I do or don't earn my money the easiest way for you to find out is to spend a week with me. Phone the office on 250044 and we will set it up, but I wont stand for any whinging about late nights. Finally Martin Wilkinson, I have the utmost respect for the man he is well connected and has been fundamental in both the recent signings and loan deals. I believe in MW and RH we have an exciting combination of scouting and managerial prowess and coaching ability and those who continue to knock him and the club for the sake of doing so should either get with the project or ship out to Nene Park. ps sorry about the spelling you get me warts and all. I won't hide behind either a spell check or a censor, but I will try harder tomorrow.

Lucy at 13:21:11 Saturday April 26 2003
How can you say 'we'll never be friends'?!!!!! You have no idea what I think, how I dress, what I drink, what I feel, what I eat, how I vote, who my favourite author is, what music I listen to, what instruments I play, where I go on holiday, what I look like, which paper I read, what car I drive, how much I am worth, what time zone I live in . . . just because I follow the Diamonds you close your mind. It could be a great loss to you!

Zebedee at 13:18:58 Saturday April 26 2003
FFS, odd thing to say that you are sick to death with the win ratio. Without wins, this club will not just be heading for the Vauxhall Conference it will heading for the Beazer Homes league or whatever they call it. Wherever Rushden sprung from. Is that what you want? Coz... I have never heard anything like it. Ever thought the Chron printed the letter because it made sense? Saddam is president and will be for the foreseeable future so lets just sit back and do nothing. A crazy idea. I won't be barracking the players, i never do but i wont support a manager with that kind of record not just for us but for all the clubs he has been under. I am proud to be a season ticket holder. Not next season. I will vote with my feet. I care many of my friends are just apathetic because they have seen it all before. The only way to get rid of the depression is to make the right changes in my view.

Judge Pickles at 13:10:20 Saturday April 26 2003
Just read and apologise it's the one at 12.10.14 (you can read I take it?)

Sprinkler at 13:09:03 Saturday April 26 2003
Pickles, it's f..wits like you that fail to see the wood .. at all. We all have ups and downs and i don't know many cobblers fans with a brain who dont think that this set up is a sham. Do you really think the Cordozos are so short sighted that they are going to quit because fans voice their opinion. Get a life, get a job, get a brain.

Tag at 13:04:43 Saturday April 26 2003
Pickles, if anyone's a toss pot, it's you with your pathetic attempts at presenting arguments. Let me remind you oh high and mighty one what you said: "Well fact is Carlisle have done equally bad since Martin Wilkinson departed." Check the record books, idiot and maybe you should look to yourself before dissing all and sundry that don't agree with you. Knob.

Zebedee at 13:01:45 Saturday April 26 2003
I read that Chron letter and have to say agreed with the sentiments and the indisputable arguments put. At least slimmartinw backs up what he says with fact. Could be a little less vitriolic but it aren't all loyal fans. I have become increasingly concerned about the state of the club since Ian Atkins left. The days when we went to Wembley twice are still etched in my memory, John Frain will forever be king for what he did at Wembley and thereafter. He needed to leave the club before now but now he is leaving i have to admit that it's a very sad time and I am quite surprised that more of a fuss is not being made of it. don't know about naming a stand after him though.

Judge Pickles at 13:01:13 Saturday April 26 2003
Tag - can't you read - Michael Knighton has now gone - Carlise's record is now marginally better. If you are going to support that negative tosspot at least read the postings correctly.

Judge Pickles at 12:58:39 Saturday April 26 2003
Well posted FFS - of course we all have concerns about the manager but there are a selection of "Fans" who are only happy when moaning - you are right about the depression around sixfields (same types who booed Steve Howard & Sam Parkin every time the touched the ball) - my concern that the likes of SlimMartinThingy will ultimately be the final soundbite that the Cordosa's hear as they leave for the exit for a final time (It was "fans" like that that drove Max Griggs to do his own thing)

Tag at 12:55:12 Saturday April 26 2003
Judge Pickles at least martinw gets tries to get his facts right when he comes on here. the present carlisle boss has a better record than wilkinson

Ray Venn at 12:45:39 Saturday April 26 2003
Stonhill and TCMP were on the board that fu*ked up the club so why are they still around? I hear TCMP just got voted back on. How does that work then? - I am a trust member and never heard a word about the re-election. Oh and TCMP it is the inland revenue that raises the money to pay the salary you don't deserve so it is typical of your hypocrisy to bad mouth them just because NTFC can't run its own affairs with you on the Board!

cobblestone at 12:34:24 Saturday April 26 2003
I think you will find that all the D.N.A in Rushlingrough is the same!!!

Therealslimmartinw(notwilko) at 12:24:03 Saturday April 26 2003
Told you so.

FFS at 12:23:35 Saturday April 26 2003
For the sake of all that is sane Martin W, please please,please no more of this "ratio" crap. I, and others are sick to the back teeth of the "win ratio." Not only did we have to read it on here 10,000 times you send your stupid post to the Chron, who then decided it needed to be printed. As things stand, Martin Wilkinson is Manager of Northampton Town Football Club and will be for the forseeable future. Now you have 2 choices. Choice number one, you make some attempt to back Martin Wilkinson and the team as we try to get back into Division 2. Choice number two, you and your equally braindead friends can barrack the Players and Wilko from the opening game of next season ensuring more years of uncertainty, unstability and Division 3 football. I and many others are sick to the back teeth of the depression that surrounds Sixfields, caused by tosspots like you. For once, let us back our club, let us get behind the team, the managment and the board. Lets give ourselves a chance of getting back out of Div 3. Oh hang on, you wouldn't want that to happen as you couldn't come on in November and say the above..........

Ted at 12:16:35 Saturday April 26 2003
Lucy... no doubt you will disappear like all the other inbreds when the going gets tough.Your posts have no substance and very little intelligence, and are clearly aimed to rile fellow football followers.You are not welcome on here,and surely you have your own message board in which to relate your tales of supremacy on and off the football field.One thing is for sure,Cobblers fans have had more shit to put up with in this last year than you've had in your history.Nevertheless we're still here and our love for our club is as strong as ever,and at last there is no doubt that our future is looking much more secure as much as it really eats at you.I remember one such moment not long ago when you were struggling to get out of the conference and certain results didn't go your way.Out came the protesters and loud were the voices of discontent.How on earth are going to react if the very life of your club is threatened and the going gets really tough?I'll tell you. You will retreat to you whence you came,and your club and it's mighty band of followers will be seen for what they really are.

Judge Pickles at 12:10:14 Saturday April 26 2003
Well fact is Carlisle have done equally bad since Martin Wilkinson departed & even now are doing only marginally better since Knighton departed - facts would therefore suggest poor results have additional causes other than Martin Wilkinson. As for my judgements - well they always have been bollocks!

Anon at 11:57:12 Saturday April 26 2003
nobody has anything personal against Martin Wilkinson. it's just that he isn't very good. ken good employed him, he's gone smell the fish?

Tag at 11:54:17 Saturday April 26 2003
Oh tsk tsk Judge Pickles, your judgement is as woeful as the real judge. Wilkinson has to be judged on his management skills and that's all i think realslimthingy and the rest are saying. I know some Carlisle fans, my best mate writes the fanzine and he is ridiculed still by the faithful. Get your facts right. Maybe if you used facts you might be able to make informed judgements.

fair play Lucy at 11:51:39 Saturday April 26 2003
��..it is always a dilemma, wether to react or to ignore � got me that time (but only because I care) � I�m afraid we can never be friends but respect will surfice � come on you O�s! (sorry childish, but fun).

sprinkler at 11:47:45 Saturday April 26 2003
Make MartinW manager he is clearly angling for it. He goes on a bit about MWilk vital statistics but lets face it, he's got a point. How on earth did he get the job. I would still like to hear an answer from TCMP too.

johnfrainisbigleggy at 11:44:47 Saturday April 26 2003
Ok it may be a bit over the top but I do back martinw on this one. Wheres the support for what is a Cobblers hero. Will take Frainy over Marti Wilkinson any day, he couldnt do any worse. Gabbygabbyhey is not a serious proposition and to my mind has never been put up as one. As for our manager, I am torn. He has been given a chance and part of me says lets see what happens. However i agree with those who are mortified by his statistics and understand their frustations after what happened with Fenwick. I don't think from what i have read that anyone is saying there was a choice between fenwick and wilkinson and that if there was fenwick would get it. It's about choices made now. I am still contemplating whether to buy my season ticket but i may well look postively because of the new faces on the board. I don't know.

Lucy at 11:41:21 Saturday April 26 2003
Cast the line and you'll always catch one!! Picture yourself on a boat on a river . . .

Cobblers are back! at 11:36:08 Saturday April 26 2003
What marvellous news that the club is now financially secure,and what a foundation we now have to build on.Also you will all soon learn good news regarding the future ownership and day to day running of Sixfields.Good times are around the corner,so jump on board and be a part of something great.

Dan at 11:35:04 Saturday April 26 2003
I think slimmartinw has got a point and is just typical of those who give a fig about the club. I never knew that MW had such a poor record. My song loves John Frain calling him an old man who still puts it in. Nothing but maximum respoect for him and I agree with the sentiments about him having a stand named after him. It won't happen of course. I am not as fired up as some, but i have to say i despair at Mr Wilkinson's appointment if his record is as bad as is quoted and i fully understand why a section of fans feel so angry about his appointment. I will take my place it the north stand and warmly cheer John Frain if he gets a start but i will be extremely anxious about the future of the club.

ntid at 11:26:31 Saturday April 26 2003
the stats prove that TRSMW is the most repetative and frankly boring poster on here, i say replace him with a proven poster.if not ill be on every day with the same post.blah blah blah the stats dont lie blah blah blah your boring. standing ovation for zimmer? there bloody better be and samo 400 games real stars

Anon at 11:19:18 Saturday April 26 2003
Question for the Martin Wilkinson hater? Just for a moment wipe out history of the last 4 months and picture the scenario - the board have no manager and are considering two applications - one from a Mr Terry Fenwick the other from a Mr Martin Wilkinson - you of course with all your wisdom would choose Mr Terry Fenwick!

inland revenue at 11:12:42 Saturday April 26 2003
tcmp: if your club payed their taxes in full and on time we would not be your principle creditor so dont lay the blame at our door saying its our fault clubs might go out of business.

Judge Pickles at 11:11:07 Saturday April 26 2003
Just to show it's not personal - I agree with everything you say about Frainy - a gentlemen & professional in every sense.

Judge Pickles at 11:08:49 Saturday April 26 2003
Wrong again RSMW, Wilko is in fact respected in the game. He is unproven as a manager but is certainly known for his knowledge of the game (but then you're Mr Stato so you are unlikely to see beyond your little world of malice). Carlisle supporter (& yes I do know some) reckon that no manager had any chance under the Knighton regime. You've made your point a few too many times now without a particularly constructive alternative (We wont take the "Gabbi as manager one to seriously!) - Just get it into your skull that intelligent people who have saved this club have made a decision - if (and that can only in all fairness be said after 10 games next season) it's the wrong decision then changes will be made - "too late I hear you cry" - well actually not if you consider the same division 3 years ago when Atko ran out of steam - so please shut the F**K up, everyone (even if they agree with you) is getting very very bored with your tirade.

Who the hell is Lucy? at 10:55:40 Saturday April 26 2003
Lucy - I'll type this in bold so you can understand "AT THE TOP OF THIS MESSAGE BOARD IT SAYS COBBLERS (AS IN NORTHAMPTON TOWN), SO WHY ARE YOU ON HERE WITH YOUR SAD, SMUG COMMENTS? - ANSWER, BECAUSE IT IS THE ONLY PLACE YOU CAN GET AN AUDIENCE. Oh and the reason we hate the Diamonds so much is that each stage of their success has been associated with the demise of a much more historical football club in the county - Corby Town, Kettering Town, & now us. Not known to you but known to others is some dubious activities by your club even to the extent of signing & trying to sign players, not because you wanted them, but just to stop the other clubs signing them after they had shown the initial interest. As I said SAD,SMUG & ripe for a fall!

therealslimmartinw at 10:51:09 Saturday April 26 2003
FRAINY: Firstly, Frainy IS a Cobblers legend. You guys dont know how lucky you are to be able to give him the send off today. I am actually extremely sad that he is going. He has helped bring this club many great memories ... yes and frustrations. But his heart was in our club, more so than most of the journeymen who come fleeting through the doors of Sixfields. Let nobody dismiss him as a mere one free kick wonder. The guy played his heart out for us week in week out... yes he got old. Whoopededo. This is his time to leave, and I really hope that everyone gives him a standing ovation. There are few players in recent years who have deserved it as much. As for Wilko being unproven. Well, that would mean he has never had a chance. He has. He is a proven crap manager. There is no arguing with the statistics. And I notice TCMP has chosen not to answer questions about the competence of the man who, lets face, is to lead this club into a new era. To say put up and shut up is to bury your heads in the sand to the truth. And the truth i am afraid aint gonna be a happy one, if he continues to manage this club the way he has. His win ratios are now worse than ever. And they couldnt have got much worse. The reason we are sticking with him because it would be embarrassing not to have the Fenwick debacle. But in fairness Wilko's record is far worse historically and you ignore that fact. The decision to make him a permanent fixture as manager was at the very least... not a very wise move. If you found out your manager had lower credentials than you, would you have any respect for him. I cannot see how he can command the respect of players who are not thick when it comes to someone's past record. Maybe that's one of the reasons we are having the mass exodus. Wilko has no standing in the game... scratch that... he is one of the worst managers in the history of English football according to results. And it is results, boys and girls, that count.

TED at 10:36:17 Saturday April 26 2003
SHAM69 STONHILL IS TO BLAME FOR THE STATE HE LEFT THE CLUB HE SHOULD RESIGN AND CRAWL BACK IN HIS HOLE

Not on The Planet at 10:16:56 Saturday April 26 2003
Not in the know, simply read down a few lines. We had this discussion yesterday. How can you not know? where exactly have you been?

Sham 69 at 10:15:10 Saturday April 26 2003
Mr Fellowes, what do you mean by "Sham Artist" are you implying that our lovable and stoic MP was the lead singer of rock legends Sham 69? I think you should get to know TCMP george before you make silly comments, he's a true Cobbler and probably the best MP this town has had. Like Footie he sticks to his principles and follows his home town football club. Stonhill has his faults but he too don't deserve to be maligned, he had his good points but like many I am glad we have moved on. I am also glad TCMP is still on the board as you know that someone who cares about the club is there making the decisions. I am a bit worried by the fact he can't spell tomorrow, I believe Blair made the same mistake and if Blairs influence is getting to him then I would be worried. UTC The only way is up.

NOT in the know at 10:09:34 Saturday April 26 2003
I've been away for a while and just checked on the official site to find that Mr. Cardoza has reached an agreement with the 'Principle Creditor'. Who IS this 'Principle Creditor'? Any ideas?

This will pease the conspiracy theorists out there! at 09:15:15 Saturday April 26 2003
We are amalgamating with the egg chasers, haven't you heard? We will be known as Northampton & Irthlingborough Dons Franchise Rugby Soccer and County Cricket Club.

George Fellowes at 09:13:38 Saturday April 26 2003
Michael Foot was one of the last true Labour M.P.'s. They are now all just sham-artists including TCMP. Get him off the board now and Stonhill, neither of them managed to run anything properly.

Hotel Ender at 09:05:20 Saturday April 26 2003
I thought Northampton Football Club were the Saints and that's why when the Cobblers were formed they had to use "Town" to differentiate between the Cobblers and Saints?

Lucy at 09:02:54 Saturday April 26 2003
It is comforting to know that our near neighbours and rivals from the division below us care so much about our attendances, thank you. Next season of course we shall profit from being in a higher league an the inevitable rise in attendance that away fans bring, teams like QPR, Sheffield Wednesday, Cardiff, Brighton, Luton, Bristol City and so on. These teams will help swell our coffers and boost our turnover and no doubt attract the 'floating voter' from the south-west of the county. You will no doubt feel a chilly breeze blowing in from the unoccupied south-stand at Sixfields as the away support of most division three sides is very poor and that has been a factor with our so-called low average attendances this season and will no doubt have similar effects upon your own attendances. Still, for us that's history, which I am pleased to say we are now creating for ourselves. Like you we have been Champions of divison 3 (4 if you prefer) and have lost in a play-off final, what next in the mighty rise of our club?

Old Stratford Cobbler at 08:54:46 Saturday April 26 2003
NFC at 20:31:25 I believe we are now officially called Northampton Football Club ie NFC and NOT our dearly beloved and treasured Northampton Town Football Club. Apparently the name has officially been changed at Companies House. Even the BBC Final score results service now has us just down as "Northampton"! Have a look today. So the chant of "N.T. N.T.F. N.T.F.C. OK" is now defunct. I think it is a F@cking scandal! Any other thoughts, fellow posters, especially the omnipotent guru TED?

Minging mong at 07:33:33 Saturday April 26 2003
Towny at 20:01:01 Friday April 25 2003.....................Ted at 21:46:37 Friday April 25 2003..............TCMP at 20:09:16 Friday April 25 2003.Nice one.........Nice one...........Nice one.

Financial times at 07:19:02 Saturday April 26 2003
They sound more like a proper run business

Artlenock Cobbler at 00:43:33 Saturday April 26 2003
direones raise revue from car boot sales and (coming soon, get yer tickets-not!) a look alike and sound alike competition. Although I think this refers to copist music acts, no doubt RDFC will win the lookalike comp but they don't sound like a real football club.

Rob at 00:40:37 Saturday April 26 2003
Ted - no I won't search out my autograph book - I'll just see if Michael will sign a copy of WALOC - after all I've got loads left!!!!

paying too much? at 23:42:31 Friday April 25 2003
oh and dont forget they have better bars at the ground and you get a programme with teh season ticket. (btw I am not switching alliegence - they'd have to pay me to get me to watch a game over there)

paying too much? at 23:39:32 Friday April 25 2003
Compare and contrast - Season Ticket prices at Nonce park (adult prices with discount for early payment) Main Stands �279, Air Wair Stand �243 Terrace �216 whilst at Sixfields (again with discount) West Stand �315, North Stand �252, East Stand �273. Match day prices to see the dimones are (again adult prices) �15, �14 and �12 for the terrace. Quite reasonable compared to our �17+/�14+. So dont anybody be surprised when they sell more season tickets and have higher average attendances than us.

nene park gate man at 22:30:57 Friday April 25 2003
Still cheaper than sixfields in the third

Ted at 21:46:37 Friday April 25 2003
I thing anyone who comes on here now slagging Wilko off cannot possibly be a Cobblers fan.As I've said before we all have our doubts,and there's nothing I'd like to see more than for us all to be proved wrong.We must get behind him and the players he brings in.Anything else is counter productive.

Ted at 21:40:01 Friday April 25 2003
Anon @18:22:07..I'd be more worried about the impact of the price rises to get in Nene Park.Your attendances were atrocious this season and you had a bloody good one.What are they going to be like next season when you find youself struggling.Remember if you are lucky enough to have a job in Rushden or Irthlingborough the average wage is about 2 Groats an hour.

Ted at 21:32:01 Friday April 25 2003
So Michael Foot is coming to Sixfields.I bet at this very moment Rob Marshall's looking for his autograph book.

kit bag at 21:10:25 Friday April 25 2003
Is it possible an unproven manager can buy an off the shelf promotion team for next season, and if so how much will it cost? If the recent 50k Cambridge signing is anything to go by,it's going to be a tall order, but like Wilko said on radio this morning if it doesn't work we might all just as well pack up and go home.

About NFC at 20:32:09 Friday April 25 2003
Is this Loonie not Leftie council after City status again? God forbid!

NFC at 20:31:25 Friday April 25 2003
What's this about NFC? Are you joking?

Old Stratford Cobbler at 20:28:52 Friday April 25 2003
TCMP - you consistently put "tommorrow" instead of the correct spelling which is "tomorrow". I think you should spend Saturday doing some lines! Here's a tip to help you remember - think of "To Morrow". Then again, maybe you are getting confused with our former player, Andy Morrow, who's dad could have been Tom Morrow! If you need a proof reader, I'm available. And can we go back to being called Northampton Town Football Club? I don't like to think of us as NFC. NTFC was quite unique. What is your opinion on this issue Tony?

TCMP at 20:09:16 Friday April 25 2003
Bazza, both Martin already has his eye on two or three who are becoming avaialable (end of contract) and also knows which positions he needs to fill. CobbComm, never trust statistics, statitics have told me I would lose every election I have thought but so far I have fought every lost cause going and won all of them. MW will work well with RH and when they have there own team then that will be the time to judge them and not until.

Towny at 20:01:01 Friday April 25 2003
Stop wasting the skin on your fingers,all you lot constantly going on about Wilkos record,give him a chance,with his own squad and Hillys help,None of you tossers know what's gonna happen, no more than me so stop being so negative and boring,and read the comments by David Cardoza and have a moan about that cos i suppose there will be something negative for you to pick out.

CobbComm at 19:32:19 Friday April 25 2003
TCMP, what are your thoughts on the board having appointed the worst manager in the league, as is proven by the statistics?

Wouldn't it be good if...... at 19:29:56 Friday April 25 2003
as well as putting his money into the club, Mr. Cardoza appointed a decent manager? with "nil points" Wilko we are going nowhere except backwards!

Anon at 18:26:30 Friday April 25 2003
so all that is needed is for one of the Cardozas companies to sponsor NTFC we increase our turnover by X10 and by real quality!!!

Anon at 18:22:07 Friday April 25 2003
And from uncle Max, DB, I bet Cobbs wish they had someone like him on board, ooops sorry they did once.

DB at 17:04:59 Friday April 25 2003
I don't know about individual players' contracts at Nene Park, but in fact the Diamonds squad is very small (as Brian Talbot keeps saying!). The main source of income at the club undoubtedly comes from sponsorship, ie Dr Martens.

MBD at 16:47:23 Friday April 25 2003
Fair enough - I played against most of the 65/66 team some years ago and barely got a kick against them!! (although I did net from about half a yard out!)

krs-1 at 16:34:50 Friday April 25 2003
MBD - yeah, alright mate. It just hacks me off all these fatboys having a pop at players that are a million times better than them.

Anon at 16:11:37 Friday April 25 2003
I sat next to Michael Foot on the tube once in about 1984. Nice donkey jacket. Wonder if its the same one he`s wearing now...

Bazza at 16:06:40 Friday April 25 2003
TCMP, does MW already have players 'pencilled in' for next year or is he still looking?

TCMP at 15:57:49 Friday April 25 2003
anon, its the clubs wage bill which is capped not the individual players wages as for legality the entertainment business including Theatre and Football are but two examples where competition law and performance fees and/or wages become confused. But as I have said I do not envisage any problem for the Cobblers next year. DB you are right about the need to raise off the pitch/park revenue and Diamonds have done well in selling the whole product of Nene Park, but the only way to grow is to grow the fan base and as a result increase the income from the core support. Its the turnover figure which will be important and as I am not on the board at R&D I do not know whether or not the Diamond Centre income is incorperated into the football club figure or not. If it is you should be o.k but if not it may be a tight thing with the size of the current squad and the reported earnings of some individuals? LH I agree that individuals have let us down this year, in truth they have let themselves down as well as they have failed to secure another contract, but all I am saying is we can do nothing about the drop now so we may as well give them a send off for the good times and relax a bit ourselves tommorrow after what has been a terrible season for fans, players and the board as well.

Anon at 15:52:32 Friday April 25 2003
'there will be no punishment for not adhereing to the wage cap next season' official site

Anon at 15:37:26 Friday April 25 2003
TCMP - If we have new players under contract before they come into force presumably that would skirt around the wage cap for the coming season? In any event, isn't wage capping a restraint of trade and therfore illegal and unenforceable?

Just a question ...... at 15:12:21 Friday April 25 2003
Just a question Diamond Bastard - where is it from then ?

Diamond Bastard at 14:44:55 Friday April 25 2003
TCMP, I think that Rushden & Diamonds won't be affected by rules on wage-capping when the new system eventually catches up with the 2nd Div. I believe that it is not only gate-money, but total income which is taken into account, and as you surely know Rushden's main source of income is not from the terraces! It will no doubt give you cause to think even more deeply about generating off the park revenue?

LH at 14:27:11 Friday April 25 2003
TCMP , Understand your appeal for support for players who have give us some memorable moments in the past but it works both ways. They need to show a bit of pride that they have played for NTFC and that it is their last home appearence. If they they put some effort in I'm sure they will get the positive response they want but unfortunatly effort has been lacking on numerous occasions this year.

TCMP at 14:03:40 Friday April 25 2003
LH, I can't see the new league regulations affecting us, wage bills are on the way down anyway so most clubs will see wage bill against turnover dropping not rising. I do however think the plans for wage caps are flawed as they will always favour high income clubs at the expense of those struggling to survive, not neccasarly the Cobblers but 2nd and 3rd division teams who fail to attract gates beyond 2-3000 like Exeter, York and dare I mention Rushden and Diamonds!! My idea for what it is worth after the event was to have squad caps on numbers to stop premier clubs having squads of 60+ and playing internationals in their reserves who could be playing in the Nationwide League a squad of 30 for the Nationwide League div 3 and 2 33 for div1 and 35 for the prem would do more to cut overall wage bills than simply imposing caps which will hurt the smallest clubs. Just a thought Micheal Foot was probably in Parliament when Jimmy Hill campaigned against wage caps as a player whilst at Fulham!

LH at 13:49:39 Friday April 25 2003
TCMP Thanks for the prompt reply , good timing I think. Do the Club think that the new League Regulations will restrict their plans?Looking forward to Teds comments regarding Mr Foot ! Not one of Michael's top fans myself but I remember the moving TV documentary he presented & self funded on the Balkans .Any one with those prinicples deserves respect.

TCMP at 13:37:11 Friday April 25 2003
Lutterworth, it's not true that the council has "run out of money" to run Sixfields but it is true to say that they are looking at ways in which they can reduce or remove their revenue expenditure and have engaged English Partnerships to provide alternatives. In other words there could not be a better time for the club to be talking to them. Ralph,re MF I agree, a man who always stuck to his principles, and who is respected across the political divide.

Ralph at 13:31:17 Friday April 25 2003
Michael Foot!? Top bloke regardless of what he wears!!

Lutterworth at 13:26:46 Friday April 25 2003
TCMP - seeing as you're here is it true that NBC have run out of money to fund Sixfields? and have the club applied for planning permission to extend the ground?

TCMP at 13:03:43 Friday April 25 2003
LH, the statement on the official site speaks volumes as to where we are going regarding putting the clubs financial behind us. I don't know who that last anon comment was from but I thought the whole world knew that our major creditor was the Inland Revenue who in my opinion are playing a very dangerous game in threatening some clubs with winding up orders whilst at the same time giving payment holidays to Swindon and letting Leicester completely off the hook. I believe that the revenue will be responsible for the demise of many a club over the next few months and the lack of consistency in their decisions region by region is staggering. The all party football group and myself have raised this in the commons and some important questions remain unanswered. However well done to David and Tony Cardoza for again being prepared to show there commitment top the club in hard cash. As I said on here last week We will be working over the summer to turn things around both on and off the pitch and I really do believe that we have exciting times ahead. Tommorrow will be a difficult game for us as we know we are relegated and we will be saying goodbye to a number of club favorites. Despite the obvious recognition that we have not performed as a unit and or as individuals this year I believe that any Cobblers player who takes to the Sixfields pitch for the last time in a Cobblers shirt tommorrow should recieve the warmest applause and encouragement. If Frainy is fit lets send him off knowing how much we appreciated that moment of magic at Wembley. Lets show Gabby that his moments of brilliance were welcome. Lets just go along tommorrow and enjoy the game take the pressure off the lads on the pitch and let them play with support ringing in their ears not critisism. I sincerely hope that all those released find new clubs and that they go on to better times than they have expierienced this season, I am sure many of them will. But tommorrow they are Cobblers players and they can cheer us all up by signing off at home with a win. A dear old friend and servant of the Labour movement Micheal Foot (including donkey jacket) will be with us at Sixfields for the game as a life long Plymouth Argyle fan. I look forward to seeing him, but I wouldn't mind sending home without a win so lets get behind the lads for the last time at home this year and then start looking towards a brighter future.

MBD at 13:02:25 Friday April 25 2003
Steady!! Only an attempt to lighten the mood - and no I'm not a gloating Diamonds fan but a long suffering Cobbler. And believe me, the Cobblers would be disappointed at only getting 100 against my side!!

krs-1 at 12:51:57 Friday April 25 2003
hey MBD why don't you put a side together to play Cobblers? I'd put every penny I own on them winning 100-0 and you and your mates not getting a touch for the whole game.

Anon at 12:50:04 Friday April 25 2003
The Inland Revenue

Anon at 12:33:20 Friday April 25 2003
who was the main creditor who wanted us liquidated?

Spion Kop Cherry Loser at 11:54:37 Friday April 25 2003
bloody hell Richard Hill hasn't aged very well has he? Fat bald git

Anon at 11:30:32 Friday April 25 2003
Will that be like Cobblers fans v P'boro fans at Abington Park in the '70s?

MBD at 11:28:12 Friday April 25 2003
The Gregory Celtic rumour is also not true - their U-13s want to face teams who will provide a challenge during their pre-season....

krs-1 at 11:25:05 Friday April 25 2003
MK-Celtic think is load of pony. Official. Cobs are rumoured to be playing a friendly at AFC Wimbledon which is to be supported 100%.

LH at 10:09:26 Friday April 25 2003
I would imagine that Franchise FC are paying Celtic to play pre-season to create intrest. Its ok we are playing Gregory Celtic U13's.

Phil at 10:08:35 Friday April 25 2003
I understand there is a Cobblers fans vs Plymouth Fans game tomorrow at victoria park. Does anyone know how I can take part in this.

Paul S at 10:01:28 Friday April 25 2003
Drilling - From those figures I'd guess that the stadium costs must go through the clubs books, otherwise it's difficult to see where the remaining 1.3 million is spent

MKMAL at 09:44:41 Friday April 25 2003
I hear that Franchise FC are supposed to be having a pre-season with Celtic in MK. I wonder if they will honour that if the win the UEFA Cup? If they do, it will certainly bring in the crowds for a pre-season.

The Drilling Cobbler at 09:18:04 Friday April 25 2003
Turnover upto June2002 was 2.7million - down 300k on the previous year(because of ITV digital). Last seasons wage budget was around 1.4million - just over 50% of the turnover. So as it stands it would make very little difference to us - unless of course the Cordozas have plans to SPEND SPEND SPEND!!!

Paul S at 08:50:39 Friday April 25 2003
My concern with the new funding scheme is that as we don't own the ground or run the services that our income/turnover may only be based on the proportion of the gate receipts that we actually receive. You wonder how we'd manage to spend the other 40%?

Pete Hendridge at 07:46:34 Friday April 25 2003
I'm gonna be a journo for the cronic !!!!!! must be an easy job as all you have to do is steal other peoples comments/ideas from web sites,so there..................ex-fireman

Mrs Ted at 00:01:47 Friday April 25 2003
Stop being so nasty to my lickle Ted, He has feelings you know he has not even had time to send our little black boy up the chimney tonight because of all this worry about an imposter?

Anon at 22:38:57 Thursday April 24 2003
What has been plagiarised then?

Ted at 22:36:03 Thursday April 24 2003
Ray..As you can see the moron has returned@21:36:38.Can you please do something about this as he is ruining my reputation.

Anon at 22:30:56 Thursday April 24 2003
Gew on Celtic!

TED at 21:36:38 Thursday April 24 2003
we are lucky to still have a team what a fucking mess the old board made of it. that fucking Stonhill and his cronies should be drummed off the board. Self interest comes first with them wankers

pedant at 21:33:59 Thursday April 24 2003
It's spelt plagiarist

Are you reading steven? at 18:32:05 Thursday April 24 2003
Entries to this Guestbook become my � copyright and may not be reproduced in any form except with my express written permission

Anon at 18:27:13 Thursday April 24 2003
Cobbler with a spare fiver, all of them!!!

George - Bucks No1 Cobbler at 17:16:09 Thursday April 24 2003
Bazza - it is me who calls Lincoln, Splinter. Its for the simple fact that he spends/spent so much time on the bench - he's no doubt got spliters somewhere (I'll leave you to guess where)

Cobbler with a spare fiver at 16:41:41 Thursday April 24 2003
Anyone know of any bookies that would take a bet on NTFC being Division 3 champions next season?

LH at 16:41:03 Thursday April 24 2003
Maybe more importantly how will the new Administration rules & sanctions affect the Boards suggestion that Town enter a CVA ? Its all gone quite on that front can you advise latest situation TCMP?

LH at 16:38:14 Thursday April 24 2003
Its based on turnover so with our poor Commercial Activities we could struggle but do our average attendance figures hold up OK compared to Div 3. Any of you statto's out there know ?

FAO Bazza at 16:05:48 Thursday April 24 2003
1st and 2nd Divisions will be the same the following season.

Pete Hendridge at 16:02:21 Thursday April 24 2003
firemen wear hats,so there...............

Bazza at 15:51:40 Thursday April 24 2003
If the league apply the same formula to Div 2 The Direones players will have to pay to play.

Don't want to be negative but at 15:39:18 Thursday April 24 2003
just when we might have a chairman willing to dish out a bit the League have introduced a wage cap for Div 3 which will be a percentage of annual turnover - so Hull's 15000 gates will let them attract players easier than our 4500 gates. Mind you, Macclesfield's players will have to turn out for a fiver a week.

FAO Colin Dalby at 15:34:45 Thursday April 24 2003
Not quite: 4,3,3,2,2,1,2,3,3,4 Started 1960/61

FAO Bazza at 15:31:10 Thursday April 24 2003
Could be his build - like most of ours he's pretty lightweight!

krs-1 at 13:52:37 Thursday April 24 2003
ntid - I must admit I missed the Tranmere match but I've seen them four or five times this year and they look good. Cavill is a talented boy but the pick of the bunch is Morison. He can hold his own in the reserves as well and I think he'll be a very good player for us. The danger is putting him in the first team then him having a bad game or two and the fans getting on his back and killing his confidence.

ntid at 13:40:40 Thursday April 24 2003
krs1 our u19s looked lightweight against players of the same age (if not build),dont put too much pressure on them yet. saying that though id like to see a couple given a run out,at least they will still be here next season

Bazza at 13:15:23 Thursday April 24 2003
I may be missing the obvious, but can someone tell me why Greg Lincoln is knicknamed Splinter?

krs-1 at 12:58:45 Thursday April 24 2003
To Colin - if memory serves it was 4-3-2-1-2-3-3-4, and it was during the Sixties. Check out www.ntfc.co.uk and click on "History" on the left hand panel and it's all on there.

krs-1 at 12:56:28 Thursday April 24 2003
So what does everyon think the side will be for Saturday given that we've got rid of all these players? Hopefully we'll see two or three of our excellent under-19 team in the starting line-up...

Colin Dalby at 12:47:19 Thursday April 24 2003
Could you plese confirm that you went from the old third division to the first and back down to the third in cosecutive seasons and could you please tell me the years.

NT FCOK at 12:33:28 Thursday April 24 2003
The board seem to be pulling together and in the right direction if any of the stories below are to be believed. especially about Good who blocked any return for broads who I still firmly believe would have got us at least three wins out the guff that followed his departure and probably kept us there .Broads deserved better than that treatment dished out by good,,,,,anyway It's happened and so has the departure of many a player which will probably stabalise a very rocky ship as far as a lot of fans are concerned,,Its all been annouced now because i would assume the fall in season tickets has been quite sharp coupled with the relegation,,therefore another reaction to another situation,bringing in another team as promised means there was always money available but was not used when it was needed, I can only deduct that Messr,s cardozza and son have a bigger plan and aren't scared of relegation... In order to rebuild, sometimes the only way in order to change drastically is drastic measures , I really hope whatever it is they have up their sleeves is a solid plan and the introduction of a GOOD QUALITY RECOGNISED MANAGER ( no offence to MW who is a good scout but not a manager) If The board mainly Mr C & son are going ahead with massive change and spending money then get someone who will stear the ship of the rocks.MW would be an excellent aquisition as chief scout but no more. It would be sheer folly for someone to come here spend and make the same mistakes made here in the past. We have never had a recognised manager and have never owned our own ground and have never had someone with real clout (money) to boot... I cant quite imagine having any of them let alone all three....If we did that would really kick start this Large town (CITY) into life as far as football goes....can it really happen....

MKMal at 11:42:20 Thursday April 24 2003
All this moaning and criticising. We are lucky to have a club. At Christmas it was definitely on the cards that we weren't going to be around next season. Now we have everything to look forward too, yes, the manager is questionable but, basically a new team, maybe own the stadium, maybe promotion and extend the stadium and all thanks to the cordoza family. I have seen the Cobblers through thick and thin over the years, but this is probably the turning point season. I for one am looking forward to next season and all you moaners should just get on with it, support the team and the club or move on.

Bazza at 11:06:14 Thursday April 24 2003
So who are we going to sign then?

Wood from Trees at 10:53:16 Thursday April 24 2003
Oh and Gabbi as manager - 3 generally underperforming years,no managerial experience, no evidence of prime man motivation (Quite a lot of appearing to try and con the ref though), undoubted but fading skill, contant arguing with decisions, not enough goals & a salary that must have contributed at least in part to our near extinct position last year. Yes that would have definitely been an excellent choice.

Wood for Trees at 10:47:14 Thursday April 24 2003
Clearly Wilko can't win - had he gone & the new name cleared out exactly the same 10, then, I'm sure our friend would have made comments like "The new guy had the balls and insight to do what Wilko never would have (Then quoted his record PWDL etc etc ad nauseum). I predict next season, a strange monkey type appearance sight!

Try Looking on the Bright Side at 10:38:12 Thursday April 24 2003
I see that contribuotors are still hareping on about Wilko's record as a manager and that this team is 'the worst for 40 years'. All I can say is where have you been? I have suffered far worse moments than this season and my all time worsts would be: 1. Losing our first division status against Fulham 2. Half time at Gay Meadow fighting for our league status 3. Losing at Chesterfield and finishing 92nd in the league Instead of whinging just accept that Wilko is the manager, and that the Cardoza's are putting money in to the Club to take it somewhere we all want to go. I have every confidence that there will be some good new players brought in and that the stadium redevelopment will go ahead - for goodness sake have some faith!

The Drilling Cobbler at 10:04:19 Thursday April 24 2003
Come on Martin - what about the other 400 free kicks that Frain missed since THAT goal? As far as direct free kick specialists are concerned, Frain was amongst the worst! In fact, I would hazard a guess that on an attempts/goals ratio you will not find a worse free kick taker.. Prior to Frain we had Whooshhh Steve Terry - please please please Bilko buy us a player who can take the damm things. At worst, its 5goals a season we have missed out on in years. That equates to around 6 points. Granted he always gave 100%, but he was way way past it, injury prone, and another season or two would have seen yet another decent player losing his dignity as he plays out the remainder of his career at NTFC. As for Hopey, 6/10 is what you get week in week out and he is not a player who can take this club forward short term or long term. Dont forget last time we were in the 3rd he had Sammo (4years younger) alongside him. Since then he hasn't improved one bit and is clearly destined for a career in lower league/non league football. Burgess - we cannot have two over the hill centrebacks(Sammo is still here). Spedding - 15-20games a year from him of which only a hand full are any good (5years of proof). Mcgregor(doesnt want a contract/1 and 1/2 years of crap with half a dozen decent performances thrown in under Fenwick). 3 chins - 4months of good performances from 3 years/36 next season! Gill - injured/ 33 in September. Unfortunate. Abbey(need I explain?). Lavin(likewise). Marsh - too old/always injured and decidely average. So there you have it - every decision is justified, and I am please that sentiment hasn't come into it. Agree entirely with you Martin about Wilkinson though - we can only hope that Hill carries him in the same way that Broadhurst carried Wilson for a while. A Skoda with a ferrari engine would outperform most cars! Wether Hill is a Ferrari or not, only time will tell. My Cobblers health was critical but yesterdays clearout has put me in a 'stable condition'.

Bazza at 09:55:01 Thursday April 24 2003
Team selection on Saturday should be interesting, who'll play at right back for instance?

Bazza at 09:47:34 Thursday April 24 2003
TO ALL DIREONES, sic transit gloria mundi (look it up you inbred, brainless, idiot)

Pete Hendrige at 07:42:50 Thursday April 24 2003
Good,get rid of the deadwood it will only cause fires,so there.........

Ralph2 at 07:38:20 Thursday April 24 2003
I am pleased to see Hope has gone,he came to us as a promising youngster and never got any better.I also think his attitude stunk.

Funnytennit at 07:24:05 Thursday April 24 2003
If you have better things to worry about LH then why bother to reply? If Wilkinson thinks he can clear out all old players and replace them with a promotion side next season, 'Just like that',then I will be amazed, where's the suggestion of youth players being part of the future? Same old story buy a few players and live in hope.

pihuan at 06:38:24 Thursday April 24 2003
Sad, but inevitable that John Frain has gone. He always gave 100% and goes down as a NTFC hero. As for the others; it sounds as if Gill has been really unlucky, but can understand the club's attitude. It has been a pleasure to see Marco 50% of the time, probably the most skillful player I've seen in a Cobblers shirt, but I think he was not used wisely a lot of the time, he isn't a centre forward. Hope and Spedding had bags of promise but never really fulfilled it, they still have time. Marsh and Mcgregor I'm glad to see the back of, Burgess less so but time isnt on his side. Abbey and Lavin we already knew about. Slightly surprised that Hargreaves is getting an offer as he has rarely performed this season. Roll on next season - this is the worst I have experienced in nearly 40 years of watching.

Anon at 01:24:20 Thursday April 24 2003
therealslimmartinw what aload of rubbish you speak Gabbidini would I think make a terrible manager and plus he has been totally crap since November. Wilko has done the right thing in getting rid with the exception of Gill and maybe McGregor who was our best player when Fenwick was in charge.

therealslimmartinw at 00:24:34 Thursday April 24 2003
AND FINALLY... the wisdom of Mr Wilkinson (genuine quotes from the oracle): "Easter is always a crucial time in any football season and the effect of two games inside three or four days is magnified by the fact that Easter falls so late this year. If Easter was mid-late March as has been the case in other years, there is time after Easter to make good any slips over the holiday period, but not this season." Ahh so that's why we went down. No wonder he cannot guarantee success. We "lack a consistent finisher", he says. F.. me, didn't he bring two in.

Ted at 00:15:28 Thursday April 24 2003
I still maintain that if we had more floodlights we would be able to see the dark players more clearly? What is racist about that?

therealslimmartinw at 23:59:53 Wednesday April 23 2003
CAN SOMEONE TELL ME I AM DREAMING: Maybe if we had REAL vision we might have given Gabby the manager's job and said thanks but no thanks to a manager whose record is one of the worst ever. Don't tire of repeating that, because it is beyond belief that he is in charge and now he has chopped half the squad. All his talking up only makes the fall even more calamitous. Is our club safe in Wilko's hands? I would say absolutely not. Look at those he has let go. Mr Gill? One of our better players. Unbelievable. Hopey, has the experience of promotion in the third and can do you a job there. As other can. Others like McGregor not so unbelievable. "A lot of the players are thirty somethings," explains the club. That's all well and good and yes we need new blood, but you cannot just chuck out all the experience we have. In any case that is a PR con. It's not just getting rid of old wood it has to be about cutting wages so lets just say that and not go into 'we are after weapons of mass destruction' territory. Not all were over the hill and some decent players have been shown the door. What the f.. is going on. It's like having a lunatic taking over the asylum. It's beyond words, beyond belief, beyond sanity. Ray, I remember you saying a similar thing about not moaning during Atkins' final days. I feel that sometimes you have to realise that something is not right. Atkins wasn't right for the club at the end of his stint. Wilko is not right NOW or ever has been. I really sincerely pray that if we have to have him that some miracle happens and he reverses a career of failure. But I just cannot see it. The 10 players that are released are all well and good, but who will replace them. Its the end of an era to see Frainy go, who has given heart and soul to the club. Never forget the Wembley free kick that got us Second Division football. He is a legend and we should name a stand after him. Let the North Stand be THE JOHN FRAIN STAND. Remember, we are in the Third and we are releasing players who are experienced in dealing with the third. The likes of Dudfield are not. Part of me just wants it to work and to not speak so negatively about our manager. But wilko's career record speaks for itself. Worse that Broadhurst, worse than Wilson, worse than even Fenwick,worse than Uncle Tom Cobbly, his uncle and grandad and grandad's grandad and grandad's grandad's grandad ... AND ALL. The only manager anyone has managed to find that has a worse record - NEVER MANAGED AGAIN. Sorry, but this is not sacking for sacking's sake. It's not gut get rid of everyone for the sake of it. It's about having the best value man for the job with the money the club has and Wilko is and never will be the one. Wilko whose inspiring manifesto is that he cannot promise us success. This man is in danger of destroying our club. I only hope the new new hints from Mr Cordoza about helping Wilko are in radical ways rather than merely fiscal. I so sincerely hope Wilko fails to live up to his limitations and that i have football pie all over my face when he gets us promotion. But as Wayne once said: "And monkeys will fly out my ass." We should not be grateful for small mercies. We should not be grateful that the club does not exist, because it could only be a stay of execution if we have a muppet for a manager. Farewell Marco! Farewell Hopey! Bye Frainy! Ta Ta Gilly. We will miss you. C'est la vie to Marshy, Lavin, Abbey, Burgess and Macca.

Hotel Ender at 23:06:45 Wednesday April 23 2003
the direones can dream of being number 1 in the County, but notwithstanding league positions it'll never happen, someone a week or two ago likened it to Stoke/Port Vale. Port Vale were in a higher league than Stoke - but they were never number 1 in Staffordshire - that was always going to be Stoke. So enjoy your day in the sun Direones. What goes around comes around.

LH at 23:00:54 Wednesday April 23 2003
Trust me on this, I couldnt give a flying **** where Rushden are in the League or where they are in the County . Dont flatter yourselves ,most people have better things to worry about.

Funnyennit at 22:46:06 Wednesday April 23 2003
How RDFC have suddenly become everybody's topic of conversation,and We all know your shitting yourselves, now you have lost the title of number one club in the county.

Redscouse at 22:13:30 Wednesday April 23 2003
Well , what a day we let go all the players that have been of no-good to us with the exception of Gill, and you still here people moaning! We have got to move on and if the Cardoza's want to start from scratch and build a new team and stadium then let them get on with it! All I ask is that as all Cobbs know nothing is true untill it actualy happens,so don't get too carried away just yet ...but saying all that if it does start to happen let's get behind the team and the board and you just might be surprised!!then when we are going back up next year and the money has dried up at Rushite and Direones we can start to enjoy our footie again!!!!!!!!

Perspective at 21:17:30 Wednesday April 23 2003
If Larry was awesome CC, what does that make Renaldo after tonights performance?

Cardiff Cobbler at 20:59:52 Wednesday April 23 2003
Bit difficult down here, putting names to all of the faces who have been canned today, but at least I get a few local trips next year, B Rovers, Torquey, Swansea (ha?). Dont give a toss about being relegated, we still have a club and after 25 years supporting them, its nothing unusual. Cardiff result last night made me laugh. �8m and they're f'cked, GREAT. People down here still talk about Gabbis goal earlier this season. Who gives a F about R&D. Oh well, better go on hols then, roll on Cheltenham next season. Went to see Forest Greeen the other night, Grayson awesome - good goal

flaming 'eck ted's right at 19:53:20 Wednesday April 23 2003
who would of thought it. the guy people love to hate making a genuine excellnt point. go on my son!

Anon at 19:28:39 Wednesday April 23 2003
well stated Ted

Ted at 19:19:25 Wednesday April 23 2003
I think everyone should get behind this Cardoza chap and his dad.There was a million and one things that they could have done with their money,but they chose to invest it here.I'm not naive enough to think that the football club is the only interest that they have,and I wish them every success in taking control of the ground,and purchasing the surrounding land.As I have said many times,I don't care how much money they make as long as the Cobblers benefit along the way.

GEE at 18:50:05 Wednesday April 23 2003
A woman I work with told me yesterday how her cousin saw Richard Hope in chicagos on the piss. She was telling him that her daughter has a season ticket and his response??????? "I feel sorry for her" If thats the sort of thinking in a player we have had for several years then I for one am glad to see the back of him. (I used to be a fan)

Ted at 18:12:35 Wednesday April 23 2003
First of all will everyone please note especially Ray that I only post after 6.00pm because of the internet tariff that I have.Any post racist or otherwise before this time is not me.No surprises with those released and good riddance.Gill was being partly paid by Brum this season so I here,so that may be the reason that he is not staying.Very intresting news about Ken Good going.TCMP..Could you please confirm that the board is now made up of the Cardoza's and those members of the old board that have stayed.If this is the case then I believe we have a board that we can trust in, and all pulling in the same direction.

Pete Hendridge at 17:23:32 Wednesday April 23 2003
Saw Marco near Mearway fire station,he is going to be a fireman,so there.................

Richard at 17:11:11 Wednesday April 23 2003
I hope it is chilvers, he looked good when here on loan. So in the know who else are we going for we need at least 2 strikers, 2 centrebacks, cover at fullbacks and a couple of midfielders minimum

in the know at 17:07:54 Wednesday April 23 2003
Up to 75% of Gill's wages were being paid by Birmingham, the club would have found it difficult to match his demands in full as they would have had to do next season. IF YOU HAVE TO SHELL OUT BIG BUCKS RIGHT BACK SURELY IS NOT THE POSITION YOU WOULD DO IT FOR. Next seasons right back will be Liam Chilvers i think you will find........ Sorry about the caps lock cant be bothered to rewrite it

Anon at 17:00:06 Wednesday April 23 2003
Your right Marco, I know it doesn't seem very fair on Gill but how many times how we been stung in the past Rickers, Lavin etc.

BIG JIM at 16:58:03 Wednesday April 23 2003
What about Gifton noel williams who is being released by Watford...he`s got pace power etc About time the dead wood went !

marco at 16:57:53 Wednesday April 23 2003
a friend who has spoken to jerry. Have to say from the club's point of view though that you can understand their predicament. Harsh as it is on Gill how can they offer a contract to someone who could be out for a year or never play again.

Anon at 16:53:52 Wednesday April 23 2003
Ahwat's your source of that info Marco? Unless of course you are Marco!

marco at 16:50:12 Wednesday April 23 2003
jerry gill was offered a new contract on Friday but did his cruciate ligament in the Tranmere game and has now been told he's being release. Understandably he's not best pleased.

Headland at 16:33:00 Wednesday April 23 2003
An unfair post re Wilko you've only listed bad signings but what about the fact he had a major hand in bringing in Harsley, Reid and actually signed Youngs. There are two sides you know.

Headland Cobbler at 16:11:56 Wednesday April 23 2003
Thanks and best wishes to all 10 players released today, I hope they get fixed up with other clubs ASAP. Not too sure about Wilko yet, it was he who recommended we buy Stamp, sign Abbey and brought Dudfield in, none of who has exactly set the club alight. As someone was pointing out in Tuesdays Chron, in all his time as a manager he has the worst wins to games ratio of any manager in the league. Lets hope Richard Hill has a lot of inluence.

Which part of A Two Year Contract to find difficulty with at 15:56:06 Wednesday April 23 2003
Anon at 15:47:19 Wednesday April 23 2003?

Incident! at 15:50:45 Wednesday April 23 2003
good gone bad @15.01 careful how you read the chron piece, Cardoza may have been in tfi's but the incident had nothing to do with him and the chron as always are trying to put 2 and 2 together and make 36

Anon at 15:47:19 Wednesday April 23 2003
so why didnt he get rid of trollope??

The most exciting season ever at 15:43:40 Wednesday April 23 2003
And the band played believe it if you like.

Cardozas Barmy Army at 15:43:15 Wednesday April 23 2003
Hmmmmm an 'incident' at TGI Fridays, Good leaves and is arrested for police for failing to provide a breath test. Good 'no longer with the club'. A minor falling out methinks.

New team at 15:31:06 Wednesday April 23 2003
Guy Ipoua - Big striker, released by Gillingham so Richard Hill has connections?

Richard at 15:25:00 Wednesday April 23 2003
So we know who is out, any idea who is in? Who are the likely targets for next season, if we are going for div 1 players we will have to pay div 1 wages, although the 10 players we have released must have been on close to 20k per week in total.

Good gone Bad at 15:01:29 Wednesday April 23 2003
Ken Good was arrested last Wednesday for drink driving after an 'incident' at TGI Fridays with Cardoza - Front page of Chron!

Anon at 14:33:46 Wednesday April 23 2003
Agreed Stamp hasnt had the best of seasons, his best game was probably the 21 minutes against Crewe - in very very brief patches he has looked ok, certainly ok enough to be a squad player in division three, I say he deserves at least a pre season with us as he may yet turn into a useful asset, and if after that time he doesnt push on its then that we should think about loaning him out or selling him, not now.

krs-1 at 14:05:52 Wednesday April 23 2003
team for Saturday: Harper, Cavill, Sampson, Reid?, Carruthers, Asamoah, Harsley, Trollope, Rahim, Morison, Dudfield. Four youth team players + Thommo on bench.

Gavin at 14:03:31 Wednesday April 23 2003
What does worry me though is . . . Harper, Stamp, Trollope, Rickers, Sammo are all still at the club. Sammo apart the others have displayed witless and mainly gutless performances this season. I really think the club should pay off Stamp and Rickers, do a deal, offer them 50% of their wages and let them find a new club. Surely neither have a role to play in the side?

GOOD START BY WILKO at 13:59:29 Wednesday April 23 2003
Not a bad start by Wilko, sorry to see Marco go but the facts speak for themselves, he didn't produce the goods but during his time with us he was undoutably the one who either scored the goals or had a hand in others scoring. Often played out of position and never really played upfront alongside a target man, when he did he looked like the player we were all hoping for. GOOD LUCK MARCO whatever the future holds for you and thanks. Relieved that Speeding and Marsh are on their bikes. Sorry that Richard Hope didn't develop in to the graceful 'Alan Hansen' type of centre-back. Sorry that Gill is 33, he has been excellent for us. McGregor done buggerall and I wont be buying any of his records either. John Frain will always have the key to the Town for 'that' goal and for that alone he will always have a special place in the Cobblers Hall of Fame. Good luck Zimmer and thanks. Others not mentioned . . . best left unsaid.

Rachel at 13:39:36 Wednesday April 23 2003
NTID - Howard got stick unfairly, from day one he looked every inch the player he is now. Dudfield gets 'justified' stick, because from day one he looked awful and he still is. If we are to mount a serious promotion challenge next season we do not need Lawrie Dudfield, or his sister Darren Stamp. He and Stamp have to go in to Room 101, NOW.

The most exciting season ever? at 13:12:29 Wednesday April 23 2003
Next season that is! 1.pfa loan being paid off; 2.posible purchase of the stadium; 3. Extension of stadium; 4.loads of new really good players coming in; 5.promotion; 6. A new manager for the 2nd division; 7.watching good games; 8.the north stand puddle being regularly topped up on dry days; 9.winning the LDV vans trophy (or what ever it is called); 10.meeting a premiership side in the FA cup and hammering them; 11.passing Diamonds on the way up to division 2; 12.new local rivals Wimbledon generating greater support. A lot of big clubs have big club(s) near by because of the rivalry generated. Wilkinson must know the budget for next year and how much he has to spend. It must be LOADS to get rid of so many players and still have confidence that the players he brings in are all 1st / 2nd division players. Exciting times are ahead Wilkinson must know the bugget for next year and how much he has to spend. It must be loads to get rid of so meny player and still have confidence that the players he brings on are all 1st / 2nd divion players. Exciting times are ahead

ntid at 12:43:31 Wednesday April 23 2003
well said frainy has been a loyal player just its time to go,as for hope he'd be outstanding for most of a game then f**k up and cost a goal or two, no loss.shame gabbi wasnt 5 yrs younger and a little lighter, give duffield a chance remember the stick howard got now everyone bleats for his return. also cavill is better than trollope

Balanced view at 12:24:11 Wednesday April 23 2003
Whilst I am sure we are all pleased that the wind of change is blowing through the club, let's just pause and say thanks to the contributions that some of the players have made. Some of these guys were at the 2 Wembley visits, participated in the 3-0 drubbing of Bristol Rovers and the 2 legged victory over the Hammers. OK, it hasn't been good for 2 - 3 years, but Frainy's Wembley free-kick has gone down in Cobbler's history, and for that alone I offer him all the best.

LH at 12:23:01 Wednesday April 23 2003
I hope Reid dosent just p**s of back . Class player ,another long loan would do us a good turn. I actually thought that when Dudfield played up front he shows glimpses that he may have a bit of potential. After all Hull paid over �300 K for him from Leicester. One for the future may be but not our main Striker . Big Strong forward needed . Does Steve Howard still live in Wootton ? That will do nicely thankyou DC!

George - Bucks No1 Cobbler at 12:12:31 Wednesday April 23 2003
HOORAY. glad theyve all gone. Yes Gill was debateable but like previous posts he will be 33 soon - maybe good enough for a year but not 2 (same mistake as sammo). Although no decision on Splinter and Rahim, what about our other loanies Reid and Dudfield? Why no decision on them or are we just to assume they will P*ss off back to their own clubs?

Anon at 12:03:34 Wednesday April 23 2003
Burgess is god. How we will need him next season

help! cant access offal site at 11:19:09 Wednesday April 23 2003
have they said what Wilkos plans are for Rahim & Dudfield ??? and Will we know who we are signing before the deadline for season ticket renewals - as (I think) most players contracts run through until early June, so they wont become available for us to sign until then?

M at 11:16:50 Wednesday April 23 2003
shame Trollope's contracts not up, would like him to be shown the door. Total waste of time, money and washing powder for his shirt cleaning

sensible decision at 10:55:23 Wednesday April 23 2003
Burgess is the epitomy of overpaid and underperforming

Stupid Decision at 10:46:12 Wednesday April 23 2003
I didn't mean he has only released burgess as in he's the only player but he's only released him as in being surprised

Sid at 10:40:36 Wednesday April 23 2003
If they were looking towards the future, then those released are right. However, I feel Hope and Gill were good solid faces to have in around the place. Experience and youth are needed, as well as those on form. Gilly has been the most consistent performer and maybe at 32 he was too old - but then what's age nowadays in footie!

M at 10:36:09 Wednesday April 23 2003
Don't know if this news will help me decide whether to renew my season ticket, possibly not, would need to know who's being brought in to replace them I expect.

Anon at 10:33:12 Wednesday April 23 2003
Gill was ok but not as good as Nicky Smith, Dave Norton or Ian Clarkson

The Drilling Cobbler at 10:31:37 Wednesday April 23 2003
Dont disagree with any of them being shown the door. Good ridance to the wankers is what I say! Jerry Gill is the only debatable one - but then again at 32 coming on 33 I think you have the main reason. For success in the longterm we need a young team who will improve over a period of time. Not a team of has beens who might get us up but then fail to sustain their performances because of age and fitness. I doubt any of them will be signed by clubs above division3, most will end up next season playing non league.

LH at 10:28:29 Wednesday April 23 2003
Harsh on Gill , fully agree with releasing the rest. Wilko has taken this opportunity to clear out. Hope he has got a couple of decent full backs & centre halfs lined up though. Didn't realise Gill was nearly 33 probably looking for a two year contract. Wilko has been hard . Broads should of stuck to his Guns & only offered Sammo one year last Summer.

Rob Dunkley at 10:27:17 Wednesday April 23 2003
I would say half of the players were good but age has taken its toll, the rest were either too injury prone or lacking in work rate.

marco at 10:22:09 Wednesday April 23 2003
absolutely the right decision with the possible exception of Gill. How people can question the release of Gabbiadini - 25 league goals in three seasons. Spedding and Hope - five years each and never regulars, average 20 appearances a season. The rest well the evidence is clear to all to see...

Gomez at 10:18:38 Wednesday April 23 2003
Must admit - surprised by the release of Hope

Middleton Cobbler at 10:13:15 Wednesday April 23 2003
Players Released: Abbey, Frain, Hope, Burgess, Spedding, Lavin, McMullett, Gabbs, Gill, Marsh Good on ya Cobbs!

Anon at 10:12:09 Wednesday April 23 2003
Can't believe we have let Marco and Duncan Spedding go. Both players still have it for Div 3. Change your mind Cobblers Board

Rob Dunkley at 10:08:10 Wednesday April 23 2003
Remember age is not on Gill's side he is 33 in September.

Ted at 10:06:50 Wednesday April 23 2003
If he was to greedy then send him on his way...He was crap anyway.

M at 09:56:24 Wednesday April 23 2003
I'm at a loss over Gill, maybe he wanted too much? will we ever know, probably not, just mindless speculation as always

Rob Dunkley at 09:54:50 Wednesday April 23 2003
Ignore Stupid decision. 10 have been shown the door, fair play to Wilko he has shown no sentiment. Major shock that Gill has gone. Lincoln and Rahim not released. The rest have gone - obviously some have been very loyal servants others have been less good whether through injury or lack of workrate.

Stupid Decision at 09:51:56 Wednesday April 23 2003
Wilko was quoted as saying he needs to get Div 1 and Div 2 players in. He has only released Burgess - what a stupid decision. Can't believe he's getting rid of Burgess. That now leaves us with 2 division 3 defenders next season - Sampson and Hope

Ted at 09:27:21 Wednesday April 23 2003
Sorry I say racist remarks Ray, Its in my English Blood you see.

Clive at 08:15:34 Wednesday April 23 2003
I wouldn't have put it quite like that, but I get your drift young man. It seems that the number of dissenting disenchanted grow by the hour!

Fucking Wankers at 01:40:14 Wednesday April 23 2003
How a team expects to stay up when they let Forrester Go and bring in Dudfield.Nice to see Howard scoring 20+ goals for Luton.To be honest the list of players who have left the cobblers looking average go to teams around are same level and suddenly looking vry good players it make you wonder Is it the ground is it the area what, i mean WHAT COULD IT BE.A SHIT MANAGER SHIT COACHING STAFF. SACK THE LOT.WE'VE GOT A FRESH SEASON COMMING UP IN THE 3RD SACK THE LOT NOW AND MAKE THE TOWN HAVE A TEAM IT DESERVES.AND ALL THIS BOLLOX OVER HILL.WOW FUCKING WOW.SACK THE WHOLE COACHING STAFF AND START NEW. YOU COULD SAY TRANMERE MATCH WAS ALLREADY A FOURGOAL CONCLUSION.

Anon at 00:22:54 Wednesday April 23 2003
clearout begins today. at least Wilko wont have a selection problem for saturday as we'll only have 11 players left.

Anon at 23:49:05 Tuesday April 22 2003
To Anon at 22:04... you're right....your comments are totally unwelcome on this site and you would have been better off just sloping away without sticking the knife in just one last time. There are 30 or 40 clubs whose achievements over the last 7 years have not matched those of the Cobblers so your comments are incorrect as well as unwelcome. Your confidence that franchise football is going to be so good may also be based on a lack of reality. Thanks and goodbye.

RUBBER DUCK at 23:01:15 Tuesday April 22 2003
NO

Anon at 22:58:43 Tuesday April 22 2003
Get back in the bath Rubber Duck!

RUBBER DUCK at 22:50:20 Tuesday April 22 2003
First thing for wilko to sort out has got to be the defence, for how long have we had slow centre halfs, sammo, razor, colin hill, frain etc the list goes on, & as for hope the dope i'd fine him 2 weeks wages for un-professionlism after his showing on fri. If the the defence could defend then the midfield would not have too drop back all the time as we are always defending too deep, then we get the ball & can't attack as the forward(s) is just too isolated

m at 22:50:02 Tuesday April 22 2003
"I am not trying to inflict my opinions on other people, I am just letting them know what they are." ??????????????

Anon at 22:49:11 Tuesday April 22 2003
Darren WOOD.Now working in Derbyshire as a site Manager.

Kev at 22:41:44 Tuesday April 22 2003
Oh my goodness. Moany what are you on? Dudfield is a third division reserve player (Hull City), he has scored one goal all season for them. If we have any aspirations of leaving this division at the first attempt then Dudfield has no part to play. He can go back to Hull to resume his position on the bench and Stamp should be paid off and told to find another club. If this fails to materialise then I fear more season tickets holders and casual fans will go to FFC in MK.

moany from the west at 22:32:11 Tuesday April 22 2003
deapite not having a season ticket last year circumstances have changed a litle so will this year but i have still been most weeks and i relly cant see how dudfield keeps getting slated, at times he has to play out of position sometimes virtually doubling as a wing back covering other players inability to snuff out runs from their opposites hardly an ideal situation for a forward with the booboys on his back!we could get him for nothing where as stamp has or will cost 45 grand who jumps better whos got better control who runs for most of the game closing down defenders?.you dont always get what you pay for!

tongue in cheek at 22:15:25 Tuesday April 22 2003
m doesn't understand me.

The Drilling Cobbler at 22:09:25 Tuesday April 22 2003
Moaning - just read your post. My excuses for not going to games do not exist. My reasons for not going to games is that I do not see why I should make the effort if the players don't bother. For the record I have missed about half a dozen home games in 16years. The last one was missed because I did not want to go, not because I couldn't which was the case in the previous ones. It is also rediculous to suggest that I am accusing people who did go on Friday as being less loyal than me. I feel very strongly about the attitide of the first team currently and it was my way of letting them know by not being there to 'support' them. That was my decision and nobody elses. I am not trying to inflict my opinions on other people, I am just letting them know what they are. Which is surely the purpose of having a site such as this.

m at 22:08:38 Tuesday April 22 2003
long term poster. dont try that crap where you work - you wouldn't last 5 seconds

Anon at 22:04:39 Tuesday April 22 2003
I realise that this won't be a welcome comment, but after the last few years of watching, for the most part, absolute rubbish, I for one will be taking the option of watching first division football in MK next season. Why, after seven years or so at Sixfields? I am not a Cobbler by birth, but have watched the club over recent years. It's not often been very pretty. I am fed up with wasting so much time and money every year and then holding my head in my hands most weeks and wondering why on earth I have done it. I know you will say "good riddance then" but it is floating fans that keep the attendance figures up. I would be at Sixfields if I thought the football would be better next season, but frankly I doubt that it will. The Wilkinson appointment staggered me and I fear that all the talk of "quality" players is just that. If it was going to hapen, why on earth didn't it happen this season, before it was too late?

Always listening at 22:02:51 Tuesday April 22 2003
Hello Ralph me old chum

Always watching at 22:02:01 Tuesday April 22 2003
Bugger! It took me so long to look up those long words in the dictionary that Drilling managed to post his match report in the meantime. Much appreciated.

Ralph at 22:00:40 Tuesday April 22 2003
err Drilling, I got a hotdog and cup of tea no trouble at all. The kiosk in the north-west corner was open.

Long term poster (I know who I am) at 21:57:43 Tuesday April 22 2003
Actually it's because we couldn't hope to be as eloquent as the current inteligentsia who regale us with their effervescent wit and charm.

The Drilling Cobbler at 21:53:58 Tuesday April 22 2003
Just got back from this evenings youth game and will try and offer a balanced match report. An even first half was drawing to a close when the referee unbelievably awarded Tranmere an indirect freekick inside the box after a Cobblers player had taken 2 touches and was in the process of clearing the ball! If a fowl took place - penalty. No fowl did take place(no appeals from the Tranmere players either) and considering we had the ball how on earth could he have seen an obstruction is beyond me. Anyhow, they scored from the resulting freekick and went in at halftime 1-0 up. Prior to that we had had the best chance when Morrison somehow didnt convert a Danny Lowe cross. The first 20minutes of the 2nd half saw Tranmere move into a 3-0 lead. The 2nd was a superb freekick from the edge of the box(justified decision) and the 3rd was a result of shabby defending, a low shot with pace into the bottom corner from 18yards after being given acres of space(sounds familiar?). The Cobbs didnt cave in though(unlike their elders) and responded well, being the better side for the remainder of the match but without really threatening. I won't slate individuals on this site(hardly fair on 50quid a week youth teamers), but in my opinion the 2 posititves to come out of the game player wise were Luke Chambers(centre half) and Bunn(keeper). LC appeared to have an excellent understanding of the game and possess's plenty of pace which is rare for a centreback. Tranmere had very quick skillful forwards and I thought he coped admirably, and would like to see him given a chance in the first team for the final two games alongside Sammo.(lets not forget Sammo is still contracted for next season.) Bunn looked very assured, both his handling and positional sence were good and in my view has the potential to be a very good goalkeeper. It was the first Cobblers youth team game I have seen and although it sounds obviously the biggest difference was physical strength. The Tranmere players looked on average alot bigger/older than ours which I felt gave them the edge. 3-0 was harsh, although I would say on the balance Tranmere deffinately deserved to win. One game is nothing to base an opinion, but I left thinking that 2 or 3 of the team deffinately have potential to become 1st teamers. The least likely individual to progress from youth team football on show tonight? The referee! His first half 'performance' defied belief, the freekick which lead to the first goal aside, he must have made a dozen unbelievable decisions(all in Tranmeres favour) before listening to the crowd and booking 2 scouses, the 2nd one for a superbly timed tackle on one of our lads! Biggest moan? The fact that none of the refreshment kiosks were open - with a crowd just short of 800 (I actually predicted 800 on the way/therefore hinesight was not needed) one should have been open which would have surely made a profit. Wether its down to the management company or not, it is just another example of the lack of professionism at our club at present which is evident all the way through from, and is more reason that it needs to act now before the likes of MK and Diamonds reap in the benefits of such a large catchment area.

Anon at 21:50:23 Tuesday April 22 2003
reid and lincoln as well,agree about the right back,fiesty little bugger

moaning at 21:47:27 Tuesday April 22 2003
Getting a bit pissed off with long term posters claiming they are "always here, always watching, and always listening" without bothering to contribute. (you know who you are). It is so arrogant - as if you are in some way superior to the current postings. Another one is drilling cobbler's lame excuses for not going to games. Usually it's the family or work etc. but not in Dripping's case - apparently it's because he's so much of a fan he can't bear to go, and those of us who do go are therefore not as loyal as him. You couldn't make it up.

Towny at 21:22:03 Tuesday April 22 2003
Well Tranmere 3 Cobbs lads 0 same tactics as 1st team,one bright player i thought Right back Bobby White, composed and comfortable. Morrison and Cavill o.k... somethings dont change,at whatever level the referee was fucking awfull.Nice also to see the 1st team supporting the lads....... Sammo!!!

THE SPARKLER at 21:20:19 Tuesday April 22 2003
See most of you lot next year, down at the Sparkly stadium then.The future is bright the future is sparkly.

abuse@ukonline.net at 20:04:52 Tuesday April 22 2003
this site is a disgrace, I have emailed the above for breaching the AUP and would encourage others to do the same

Marco Gabbiadin's CD Collectiojn Comment at 19:35:25 Tuesday April 22 2003
It's time like these when I reach for some blues music, a can of Stella and my photo album. I remeber the days when when I was going place...I was a goal scorer. Now look at me? I'm a shit.

Rincewind's Tutor at 19:06:34 Tuesday April 22 2003
To call MW's understanding of football theory "abysmal" is to leave no suitable word to describe his grasp of its practice

MCHammer at 18:52:52 Tuesday April 22 2003
And for all the anonymous posters who think they prove their point by trotting out Wilko's current stats why don't you also post Fenwicks seven and Broadhurst's last ten games. Judge Wilko next season it will be HIS team and HE will be responsible. I take it you'll all be big enough to list his stats if they improve next season.

MCHammer at 18:42:57 Tuesday April 22 2003
Thanks for repeating that for me I thought I may have misunderstood but you've confirmed my original post. He may be putting pressure on himself by saying what he did but WHAT DO YOU WANT HIM TO SAY? Would it be better to not say anything would that relieve the pressure.

Ted at 18:17:51 Tuesday April 22 2003
Ray.. Once again somebody is using my name ,Can you please do something about this.

Kev at 18:15:23 Tuesday April 22 2003
The only thing that will save season ticket holders from jumping ship will be Wilkinson's announcement of the retained players, so the sooner he gets on with this the better. If he keeps Frain and Marsh etc. he'll be courting disaster. He says he is looking to sign established divison 1 & 2 players, so than rules out Dudfield. If Wilkinson tries to sign him that will send out the completely wrong message to those season ticket holders debating what to do for next season. I must say in all the years I have followed the Cobbs I cannot think of a more controversial appointment than Wilko and the amount of debate generated has been overwhelmingly against the man, not just on these boards but at games, in the pub and at work! Amazing!! It still begs the question 'why Wilkinson?'.

Towny at 18:12:06 Tuesday April 22 2003
Just off to see the u19s ...good luck boys,show the oldies how its done!!

Not at the moment he can't mate! at 18:10:01 Tuesday April 22 2003
And in reply to MCHammer's quote about Sgt Bilko . . . . 'This guy really can't do any right can he!!' the answer is . . . . P10 W2 D1 L7 F6 A22 Pts 7.

One more time just for MCHammer at 18:07:57 Tuesday April 22 2003
What massive pressure Wilkinson is now under. He has told all and sundry that we have to clear out the players out of contract with the exception of 1 or 2. He has also stated that the players he will bring in must be established in divisons 1 or 2 and be quality. He has stated he will not go to T&T but will stay behind and begin work to rebuild the squad. He is getting so much flak at the moment if he fails to do any of the above or even worse, carries his current statistics in to the first ten games of next season, then even his supporters will demand he goes. Pressure, pressure, pressure!!

Ray at 17:53:17 Tuesday April 22 2003
I've told you before about racist remarks.

Ted at 17:48:41 Tuesday April 22 2003
If Wilkinson goes to T&T for players will we have to buy some more flood lights so we can see the players in the night games?

Richard at 17:22:09 Tuesday April 22 2003
Hasn't Sammo got another year? We need to try and keep Gill and Reid long term next year, as well as a couple of decent strikers, and Derak will score 20 goals in the 3rd division.

The Cobbler at 16:43:29 Tuesday April 22 2003
Well, I'm very disapointed to have looked at the official site and there's no mention of the soon to be out of contract players released early. Wilko, for gods sake please don't put that shower on parade at Plymouth or Mansfield. Please don't give us Hope, Frain, Sampson, Dudfield, Gabbi etc. Reward the U19 boys and play them alongside Thommo, Harsley, Hargreaves and erm, err ummm, well, Thommo, Harsley and Hargreaves. There's no pressure, there's nothing riding on these two matches. Please, never burden us with the Dead wood again.

Richard at 16:42:20 Tuesday April 22 2003
Who said I was going to watch MK play, just saying what I have heard from people who sit round me. I won't be buying a season ticket though, not with Wilkinson in charge and the current bunch of loser who play with no heart or pride.

LH at 16:18:22 Tuesday April 22 2003
By 8 seconds ! I forgot what it feels like to win.

Towny at 16:02:20 Tuesday April 22 2003
WOOD......... I think the First team should be made to watch the boys play tonight and see how not to cave in.

LH at 16:02:12 Tuesday April 22 2003
Darren Wood , Managing local UCL side ?

Question time at 15:49:57 Tuesday April 22 2003
Can anyone help. In the summer 96' there was a coach for the youth team called Darren ?. He was an ex player for the Cobblers. Can anyone remember his last name and know what he's doing now. Thanks

Anon at 15:35:00 Tuesday April 22 2003
Who is this Richard. Is his surname Koppel? Or one of our eastern friends.

Dyl at 15:06:48 Tuesday April 22 2003
I'm renewing my season ticket despite everything. I'm a Cobblers fan from near MK and I wouldn't go and watch Franchise FC if you paid me. Franchise FC stand for everything that is wrong in football. If Richard and any of his alleged season ticket non-renewers want to go to see Franchise FC, fine and I hope they never come back to Sixfields. Franchise FC is a real threat to the existence of NTFC. If they would rather put their money into FFC and risk contributing to the Cobblers' death then they aren't the sort of 'fans' we want anyway!

Anon at 14:54:15 Tuesday April 22 2003
I shall be re-newing mine and im going to buy my nine year old daughter one for her sins.

Ray at 14:53:56 Tuesday April 22 2003
Where did you get the figure of �86 for a MK Franchise season ticket? Their site quotes the lowest figure of �180 before 31st. May

Anon at 14:52:04 Tuesday April 22 2003
Why do they play in Rushden???

MCHammer at 14:42:39 Tuesday April 22 2003
I'll believe it when I see it. Personally I can't see how anyone can possibly change their allegiance just like that.

Richard at 14:37:41 Tuesday April 22 2003
The 5 or 6 season ticket holder round me are not re-newing theirs, and some are going to watch a few MK games. You will be shocked next season I think by the poor attendances. Esp if nothing improves over the summer.

Team Swopper at 14:09:09 Tuesday April 22 2003
Why would anyone wish to support MK North Beds,when they can foollow RDFC in Rushdenshire.

MCHammer at 13:31:09 Tuesday April 22 2003
I think you will find that season ticket holders are probably the more hard core long term supporters. I would be stunned to find that many existing season ticket holders would change allegiance to MK Dons. Perhaps the floating supporter might but not season ticket holders.

Richard at 13:27:30 Tuesday April 22 2003
Ray, can we have a couple of polls. A if you had a season ticket this year will you or will you not buy one next year. And B is the idea of Wimbledon too tempting to resist (�86 season ticket) for those who travel from MK. I have a feeling we are going to sell less that 1000 season tickets, so we will be in big trouble from the off next year!!

LH at 13:05:51 Tuesday April 22 2003
So disgusted by Fridays performance that although I have logged on not felt able to post anything coherent . Shocking 1st Half performance by neary everybody. Some positives later though Youngs showed good touches , Trollope worked very hard and I though Dudfield shows glimpses that he may have something (waiting for the slating). BUT the biggest worry for me was the Reid injury and the insight it gave into the commonsense of our Management team & on the field leadership. I believe that Managers need to be given chance to manage ( Apart from Fenwick, anybody who summarises a game by talking about dropping trousers & waiting to be spanked clearly is in a league of his own). I think that Wilko & Hill could be a good combination but what the **** was everyone doing , Paul Reid was struggling yet it took us 5 minutes to Sub him !! He couldnt jump hence free header = third Goal , then we sub him . Gerry Gill was going frantic trying to get thing's changed and nothing was happening. Why does it piss me off so much? Because if Hope wasnt ready , he should of been and its shocking professionalism. Why didnt we move someone else to Centre half until Hope could come on ? Gill or Frain & Juggle the team for five minutes ? Failings of simple management decisions ? Why didnt Sammo organise it if the bench couldnt ? He's Captain with 100's of games under his belt , simple failings of leadership on the field ! If Hope had forget his contacts or something then I would like it to come out into the public domain because after that microcosm of our mismanagement season ,for me the Jurys out on Wilko and the lot of them. I would like answers please as to why they cant manage a small problem like that so that I can form a better informed opinon.

George - Bucks No1 Cobbler at 12:49:15 Tuesday April 22 2003
Ok so Im not a Season ticket holder, but i do go to around 25 games a season (home and away) and 'bag man' Wilko has to go. KB had to go and he didnt havea plan B. No substitutions etc. However Bag man decision to play dudfield & marsh on the right side instead of Asa (or maybe even macca) is ridiculous. Im also worried that bagman may buy players still be a crap manager and then nexy 1 will have no money to spend. IMHO ALL the non-contract players can go including ABBEY, MARSH, SPEDDING, BURG, MACCA, HOPE, ZIMMER, and GABBI (and excluding Gill (although hes not played well recently). We need 2 center backs (using sammo as cover) a left sided defender (to cover for CC) a right sided midfielder and a striker or 2. Ok Stamp is no good so send him back to the conference on a 3 month loan and get his confidence back - let him score goals there. Undecided on Lincoln. Reid, Rahim and Dudfield can all do, there are better players out there. And Finally as for Friday - well we were a joke - simple as

Voting now Finished at 12:03:54 Tuesday April 22 2003
In a recent vote nationwide the area for most incestrial actions has had an very intresting outcome. In 3rd Peterborough with a whopping 47% said yes i fuck my mother. Well in 2nd it was Rushden with a 99% incest rating. No surprise there and finally in joint 1st Daventry and Woodford Halse with a Huge 100%.Sick

New Stratford Hank at 11:35:10 Tuesday April 22 2003
The Cobblers are now officially Tthe Gedgies

MKMal at 11:21:20 Tuesday April 22 2003
Excellent words from TCMP at 18:04:51 Saturday April 19 2003. Your either a Cobblers fan or your not. I have been for nearly forty years travelling from MK every home game and seen some great games and some shit games, but above all I am Cobblers fan and keep coming back for more. Your either behind the team or not, if not you can F*** off to either dustbins or franchise (I could do that easily), but real fans support the club for better or worse. Its just unfortunate we are having the worse at the moment. Lets all just get over the disapointing season and get behind the club (which is greater than the individuals)and get them back in the promotion race.

Macc Cobblers at 10:53:56 Tuesday April 22 2003
I think that he could start by apologising for recent performances - and also accept that mistakes have been made by the management team. He goes on about negativity, but he must be Mr.Negative personified, looking at his team selections, use of substitutes and lack of tactical awareness.

MCHammer at 09:36:11 Tuesday April 22 2003
Question....What actually do you want Wilko to say? Would you prefer him to say he's only after non league players or players that have NOT played at higher levels. Also that he's decided to go to T&T as it sounds like a good piss up. This guy really can't do any right can he!!

The eyes of Northampton are watching you at 09:22:47 Tuesday April 22 2003
What massive pressure Wilkinson is now under. He has told all and sundry that we have to clear out the players out of contract with the exception of 1 or 2. He has also stated that the players he will bring in must be established in divisons 1 or 2 and be quality. He has stated he will not go to T&T but will stay behind and begin work to rebuild the squad. He is getting so much flak at the moment if he fails to do any of the above or even worse, carries his current statistics in to the first ten games of next season, then even his supporters will demand he goes. Pressure, pressure, pressure!!

IT'S THE ONLY WAY FORWARD at 09:13:03 Tuesday April 22 2003
I agree with Wilkinson, we need to cut out the dead wood. He can begin with Curtis and Kearney and then do the decent thing and resign.

LOOK OUT DIVISION 3 at 09:11:33 Tuesday April 22 2003
WILKINSON'S RECORD P10 W2 D1 L7 F6 A22 Pts 7.

Wavendon Towers Bob at 08:41:31 Tuesday April 22 2003
Yes it has been officialy registered just as Northampton with Companies House, West Brom did the same in the 70s and were just called Albion, its Marketing maddness and copyright

Old Stratford Cobbler at 08:04:09 Tuesday April 22 2003
Can someone please tell me if we have officially dropped the name of "Town" from our name? The BBC TV results service keeps referring to us as "Northampton" and not "Northampton Town". Answer please. Thanks.

pihuan at 07:16:10 Tuesday April 22 2003
Another narrow defeat.It's just embarrassing, and in a game they appear to have dominated in the first half. Roll on next season, although with Div2 Dustbins and Franchise FC up the road that could be an even bigger barrel of laughs. Competition suggestion, what's the worst signing we've made in the last 3 years [obviously apart from Andy Turner] - I reckon it's Marsh.

Missing the point at 03:36:56 Tuesday April 22 2003
4494 attendance at RDFC,not bad, but could be better, agreed. But dont forget Nene Park generates other income seven days a week from other events which over a year must add up to far greater income than you will ever see from 23 league games at Sixfields.

I can't believe they're above us at 01:05:30 Tuesday April 22 2003
notice but we've been rubbish for the best part of three seasons: but we did beat port vale. every other game we've been toss

Anon at 00:42:02 Tuesday April 22 2003
Anybody got a rosette comemerating the first game at Sixfields that I can buy,I will pay a good price.Or maybe a supporters club badge from about the 50's,it has a yellow boot in the middle if my memory serves me right.

MCHammer at 00:37:29 Tuesday April 22 2003
"The players can produce the goods but not until we get a manager" when did they produce the goods exactly to back this point up? It may have escaped your notice but we've been rubbish for the best part of three seasons.

NT FCOK at 00:16:17 Tuesday April 22 2003
the players (who were fit enough and not injured) were better under broads and to turn the team upside down at that point and elect TF was sheer stupidity they should of at least give broads some money and not let him walk around with stones in his pockets ............always too late are the knee jerk reaction's ..like paying off the pfa loan that was first and foremost in order to attempt a stay of execution in the 2nd Div instead of getting rid of TWO managers first???????????..............MW is not a coach!!! he's a scout!!! Bristol rovers are bigger and better than us and yet they starred the conference in the face what chance have we got......THE WRITING IS ON THE WALL PEOPLE......the players we have can produce the goods but not until we GET A MANAGER....How many more fu(king times am I going to say it. Ive just about predicted every fu(king thing that has happened this season and yet there are those with the rose tinted glasses that have called me doom and gloom.......If I had put all of my worldly goods on this outcome and event's that ensued this season at the bookies , then I would probably have won enough money to buy the fu(king club.......take of your glasses and look around you....once again it's too late cause we are in the 3rd div now.........................Oh By the way "DARK ROOM" that's the best place for you with the rest of the "negative's".........thanx for your response TARQUIN

Division 2 team at 23:41:50 Monday April 21 2003
Wankers!!!

Anon at 23:40:45 Monday April 21 2003
150,000 people with a vague interest in NTFC (if no other than living in the town) 10,000 people with vague interest in Direones. If they do give them more coverage then I cancel as well same as if Radio Shite starts to cover there games any more (as if they even could) then I no longer listen to them either

Rushden Attendance Today: at 23:18:28 Monday April 21 2003
4,494 wooooooooooo!!!!!!!!!! God help them if they were struggling at the bottom of the table!

TRB Mark at 23:18:17 Monday April 21 2003
Correct me if I'm wrong, but I would have thought that the local paper would give greater and more in depth coverage to the local side. For the Chron, that team is NTFC, for the Evening Telegraph, it's direones (used to be the ploppies). Although I live in the ET area, I choose to have the Chron, based purely on the fact that it gives greater coverage to The Cobblers and in the ET, Cobblers news came second to KTFC and now RDFC, unless there was a big story. And rightly so. If the Chron give greater coverage to direones than the Cobblers, then I shall cancel!

worst season ever? at 23:06:22 Monday April 21 2003
what an awful sesaon has gone from bad to worse. I can only think of one worse and that was when we only survived relegation to the confrence on a loop hole. any suggestions? maybe a vote ray? =)

therealslimmartinw at 22:45:25 Monday April 21 2003
The Chron would have to give proper weight to Rushden as a second division club and it should give a Rushden match report greater standing than the Cobblers. But it depends on circulation. Obviously if the Cobblers manager got sacked, then that would mean big headlines back and front as usual. I would imagine there is a lot of conversations happening in the upper eschelons of the Chron about this very subject.

Lurtz at 22:10:05 Monday April 21 2003
Probably was but don't spoil the excuse to have another dig at the prats! The way he was treated was bloody awful.

nomenteam at 22:09:33 Monday April 21 2003
On my way to the friday night game i was listening to the interview on radio npton and heard the interview with Richard Hill and despite arriving at sixfields i stayed in the car to hear the end of the interview as i was gladdened by what he had to say. However reality struck when i like others were utterly ashamed at the display put on for us by a lack lustre bunch of has-beens during the game, i recall there only one "off target" shot for Cobblers in the whole game. Then today again another drubbing. Well Richard Hill you have a busy close season to get a team together in time for the 2003/04 season, please gid rid of those who have showed little effort on the field and that will leave you with very few to choose from. Good Luck.

FAO Lurz at 22:03:51 Monday April 21 2003
I think it may have been the �1200 a week pay rise he wanted that we wouldn't give, but Luton would, that swung it!

Lurtz at 22:00:16 Monday April 21 2003
So the day we get relegated, Steve Howard scores a hat-trick for Luton. I hope the boo-boys who contributed to his decision to leave our club are pleased with themselves.

Anon at 21:03:57 Monday April 21 2003
Wilkinson will be sacked by 10th November. By that time we'll be rooted at the bottom and knocked out of the Cup by Raunds. Laurel and Hardy controlling the purse strings and the Three Stooges for a management team.

Adam Blackhead at 21:00:18 Monday April 21 2003
Anon at 20:28:23 - it's radio NORTHAMPTON not radio Irthlingborough. If they favour Rubbish and Direones do 'em under the trade description act.

Ted at 20:57:26 Monday April 21 2003
Before I start my piece I want to say that like most fans I have my doubts over Sergeant Bilko as manager.However those with the dosh have decided to put their trust in him and Hill to re-build the team,so calling for sacking of Wilkinson is a waste of time because it aint going to happen.Regarding the team,we know that alot of the tossers are going to be gone soon, and good riddance.How many times this season have we gone a goal down,and then conceded another straight away.How many times have we folded like a pack of cards and ended up losing 3 4 or 5-0 in games where we have more than matched the opposition home and away.How many late goals have we conceded due to lack of concentration and slack marking.It doesn't matter who the manager is,and this has been proved because it has happened all season to three different managers.This comes down solely to the players and their attitude.They are the ones to blame,and they are the ones that should be sacked.I just hope that on Saturday all those that are not going to be with us next season are not playing,and are replaced by youngsters who try.

Anon at 20:56:14 Monday April 21 2003
The time for ranting and raving is gone. We've been down for weeks. Look forward to anew era with some decent signings on the way.

Eastander at 20:55:15 Monday April 21 2003
Firstly to nail my colours to the mast I shall be renewing my season ticket irrespective of what may happen between now and the start of next season, but there are a few points that need stating. We do not have a God given right to play 2nd div. football, there are bigger clubs and towns\cities in the 3rd Hull, Bristol Rovers and Hull spring to mind immediatelywithout even looking at the table, and although i haven't looked probably one or two in the conference too. The club starting from the chairman down have got to be realistic and face facts, we have been very poor since November, KB's sacking was wrong but its history now, if wilkinsons to be given a chance with his own squad then he must be given a time scale to make things start happening, I haven't noticed anywhere how long his new contract is, and we as supporters must back the team from day one of the new season, in fact we should give them a good reception on saturday to let them know we'll still be here long after they've hung up their boots for good. Of the players to stay I agree with most on here, asa,CC, Youngs,Harsley,Hargreaves (always a 100% player) possibly Lincoln and both keepers, I'm not sure if McGregor could do a job in Div3 (he was always too slow for div2)don't think Gill will stay he'll want too much and of course Morrison who always appears very lighweight in all interpretations of the word already has a new contract. Did Sammo sign for 2 years last year if so theres dead wood to carry for the new season already (sorry Sammo you've been great but you're just too slow now)

Anon at 20:32:17 Monday April 21 2003
The Chron & Echo website has put R&D stories in front of the Cobblers since the day it was launched. Figure that one.

Anon at 20:28:23 Monday April 21 2003
Now that Diamonds are number one in the county, does that mean they will take the back page headlines in the Chron,will Radio Northampton make them the first sports story, and if a pre season friendly was played would be at Sixfields?

RUBBER DUCK at 19:46:20 Monday April 21 2003
WANKERS the bloody lot, did not try all season some of them. No fight,no passion, no shape, no power, no movement, NO IDEA. Luckily most of the deadwood is out of contract, the slightly better ones are still under contract, Asamoah, Harsley, Hargreaves, CC, Thompson, Harper & Youngs. The others Frain, Sammo, Gabi, Burgess, Hope, Stamp, Marsh, Abbey just gave up 2nd half of season i'd show'em the door give'em a one way ticket to Tobago if you have to Mr Cardoza, just get rid. We want to see N.T.F.C. Play football with pride & passion not just roll over & die. Chardie had a bad team but at least every player on the pitch went out & fought for the club. Lets at least sign players who will do that. I'd offer Gill, may be Rahim & Lincoln a contract.

Cobblers Rule Radio 5 at 19:29:40 Monday April 21 2003
Just after 5pm they interviewed M Wilkinson, about what had gone wrong, the main thing he said was next season any player being negative in words/deeds would be sacked, then on Allan Clarkes 6.05 a Cobbs fan on the way back congratulated Rubbish and Dustbins as he called them........

Rob Dunkley at 18:34:58 Monday April 21 2003
We need virtually a whole new team of players. As I have said before Fenwick may have been a complete idiot as manager, he did get two things right. Our tendency to fall apart for short spells (2 * 2 goals in 2 minutes) and get punished. Also Fenwick noted our lack of physical and mental strength (the lads keep feeling sorry for themselves). Lets make the most of this opportunity - we need to grasp it and get rid of the deadwood. Whilst Wilko states we will be signing Division One players - aren't these going to be just as lazy as some our current crop. Look at Oldham - signed quite a few non-league players and they have done well. I also feel players from the non-league want it more.

The Drilling Cobbler at 18:19:42 Monday April 21 2003
West stand woman - UNLUCKY LADS! Jesus Christ, there not even bloody trying. Luck doesnt come into it. Whats unlucky about losing 4-0 and having the cross bar rattled? The players dont need sympathy, they need their p45's. I'll be there tomorrow night supporting a team who clearly WANT to win football matches. Thats all I ask. Forget the result and performance. My only criteria is 100%effort, and the rest should follow. Wilko keeps going on about the future(like he did again today) so why does he play Gabbs, Frain and Marsh - all out of contract at the end of the season and all surely on there way out of sixfields. The only reason I can think of is that Wilko doesnt want the cancer to spread from outside the first team, and by keeping all the mercancey bastards away from the kids helps control it. Somehow though I dont think that is the case!

therealslimmartinw at 18:00:08 Monday April 21 2003
Well the inspiration continues!! The words of TCMP were all well and good. "I tell you what we are going to do about it, we are going to work night and day over the summer to start putting it right." But it hardly amounts to a manifesto. Maybe that's the politician being coy. But I would like to know what TCMP actually feels should happen, rather than say something should happen. Asking us to support the club is a bit like asking the spider whether he would like to consume the fly. To me there is one crucial thing that needs to be done .. and that is to find a manager that inspires and leads rather than one who has a record of not just failure but embarrassing failure. And i don't necessarily think it needs to be a big name, but it needs to be a leader of men. I fear that the club cannot move forward without that leadership. Another demoralising defeat just adds more weight to that. This is not just about getting rid of another manager for the sake of it. I don't believe in that at all. But there comes a time when you know it is not happening. And whatever way you look at it Wilko's record is so shockingly bad both for us and historically that there is no other option. So if working hard to get it right means we have find a leader with the right calibre that won't break the bank, then i am behind that 1000%. The extra nought was deliberate. Rushden are now officially the number one side in Northamptonshire even the Chron has Rushden stories higher up in the web site pecking order than a Cobblers one. Take that in.

alarm clock at 17:54:43 Monday April 21 2003
you need to wake up west stand woman!! at this rate the only direction we are going is down.

west stand woman at 17:50:13 Monday April 21 2003
i think its a shame that we are relgated but i am sure we will come back up next season i will be having a season ticket but i know many will not and the gates will go down but only at the start of the season as all the glory chasers will come back when we are ready to go up automatically i think we should keep gill and lincoln UNLUCKY LADS KEEP GOING COME ON COBBLERS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

A Childs View at 17:49:57 Monday April 21 2003
Relegation has clearly brought on an impromptu bout of dyslexia!!! Sod off Wilko, Kearney and Curtis - advertise the job and give it to the best candidate with Hill as assistant.

A Childs View at 17:47:01 Monday April 21 2003
We are joke, all of those involved in the following decisions are responsible for the mess that our club is now in - sacking KB too early, he deserved another 5 games. Appointing Fenwick and giving him only 7 games - I didn't like what I was seeing under him but 7 games is crazy! Appointing 'Bag Man' Wilkinson who is clearly crap. Why was he given the job after saying he only wanted to do the caretaker bit? Why give him the job when his record so useless? Why give him a contract before the end of the season before having had a look at what impact he has until the end of the season? 4 Chairman and 3 managers - we are in our rightful place and fully deserve to be bottom, the laughing stock of all 4 divisions. The players are proving to be somewhat gutless but played in a sensible system with a decent manager we'd have been good enough to survive, no more than that but still in the second I reckon. The board face a choice, do they cut their losses and get shot of Wilko and the cronies before the next season starts or run the risk of a poor start, him squandering the money and running the risk of relegation to the conference? There'll be shouts of Wilko out at home to Plymouth, no doubt about it. Asamoah on the bench and Marsh on right midfield - incompetence, simple as that. Thank God this season is nearly over - my season ticket cheque is waiting until the last possible minute. I'm so looking forward to the Saturday, I though footy was supposed to fun - ha ha, not at Northampton it isn't. Well done to Diamonds - I'm dissappointed we won't be playing you, I'd be looking forward to that fixture for some time.

Anon at 17:28:07 Monday April 21 2003
shut up singing you fat bitch we get it,come on the youth team cheer us up a bit ,and wilko let the deadwood go KNOW.

DRD2 at 17:20:36 Monday April 21 2003
move your mouse over my name and believe

Ok Adam at 17:12:05 Monday April 21 2003
you won't be missed. Piss off back to leicester

Simple Mr Cardoza at 17:11:07 Monday April 21 2003
Get rid of Wilkinson and show us that you're willing to spend some serious cash next season, or there will be no season ticket for me or many others I suspect.

I dream of only being shit at 17:08:52 Monday April 21 2003
.

Because..... at 16:58:55 Monday April 21 2003
we're sh1t and we know we are

Why on earth can we not at 16:57:13 Monday April 21 2003
.................just lose a game by the odd goal?

Out with a bang? at 16:53:25 Monday April 21 2003
Nice to see the Diamonds cunts at the game today

Another two in a minute at 16:53:18 Monday April 21 2003
Sounds very familiar.........

One more for good measure....... at 16:52:56 Monday April 21 2003
4-0. Thank you and goodnight

Divsion THREE at 16:51:55 Monday April 21 2003
Welcome back to hell. Your stay will be long and uncomfortable.

The Drilling Cobbler at 16:46:52 Monday April 21 2003
2 goals in a minute. Marsh on the right of midfield. Asa on the bench. All the deadwood mercaneries still playing. Less than 200 in the away end. Come on NTFC, GET RID OF THIS CLOWN(WILKO) NOW. Clueless is a word that should have been invented especially for him. What is the point in playing Gabbs/Frain/Marsh etc assuming they are going to be released? He is delaying the rebuilding of our club for the sake of it. What a prat.

rushden alert at 16:29:56 Monday April 21 2003
3-0

w o b b l e at 16:29:11 Monday April 21 2003
b y e - b y e

No bottle at 16:25:30 Monday April 21 2003
*Choke*

Two in a minute at 16:21:04 Monday April 21 2003
Sounds very familiar......

Shock horror at 16:18:50 Monday April 21 2003
Sampson gives away a penalty.......

Fuck Rushden and Hartlepool at 16:02:18 Monday April 21 2003
We always play better second half..........

Anon at 15:58:49 Monday April 21 2003
hartlepool losing, rushden winning, sh1t!

Anon at 15:11:31 Monday April 21 2003
Thing is though of the players with contracts for next season: Harper, Sampson, Harsley, Stamp, CC, Rickers, Trollope, Asa, Hargreaves, Thompson & Youngs I'd only keep Harsley, Thompson & Youngs. & of the ones without- well I wouldnt keep any, not even "Lord" Gill, he won't want to be on less than �1000 a week next season. and you can't pay that sort of money in the 3rd.

Anon at 14:36:42 Monday April 21 2003
you're not important enough

ntid at 13:09:45 Monday April 21 2003
are we being barred from cc2 just tried to join but was told too many members (pah i do not scrape my knuckles) i just fancied a site away from the diamongs

The Drilling Cobbler at 12:25:06 Monday April 21 2003
On a brighter note, I almost forgot about the under19's match tomorrow night. I shall be attending that, it will be a novelty to see a team of claret and white TRYING to win a football match! Is anyone else going, it would be good if a decent sized crowd turned up. The irony is that by getting to the final it has probably cost a few of them a chance to play in the first team! I am certain that if it wasnt for that game some of them would have been included in todays team. So the deadwood get another opportunity to mascerade as professional footballers. Still, only 3 games left and most of the mercaneries will be gone.

Towny at 11:49:11 Monday April 21 2003
Have you been watching countdown.... prerequisite.......vitriol Too many big words for me,ill stick to CC1 thanks! I'll "scrape my knuckles" and "dribble over my p.c.".... but my dribble may be somewhat different to yours,know wot i mean!!!!

IP address supplied at 11:37:12 Monday April 21 2003
I wouldn't get too excited about cc2. Sometimes a week goes by without any postings and when there is one it's so long that you lose the will to live half way thru reading it.

DRD2 at 11:33:34 Monday April 21 2003
Yippee!

BR at 11:29:27 Monday April 21 2003
I'm just surprised that no-one has let the address slip before now. Personally, I've been using CC3 for ages. There's only me on there but I can get reasoned debate and hardly ever disagree with postings.

Anon at 11:17:52 Monday April 21 2003
So you have let everyone in to CC2 and it will end up like this. Effectively you have closed cc2 you twonk!!

oldbrook cobbler at 11:13:58 Monday April 21 2003
unfortunately thats why this site is like it is! this is actually my first real posting today so there you go. thats why the "real" supporters dont use it.

What a PRAT! at 11:11:49 Monday April 21 2003
well done Oldbrook, you let the lunatics in!!!!!

oldbrook cobbler at 11:05:42 Monday April 21 2003
http://web.ukonline.co.uk/ntfc/cobbcom2.htm

Anon at 11:02:38 Monday April 21 2003
shut this site down

oldbrook cobbler at 11:02:21 Monday April 21 2003
anon youve only gotta follow the links just like everyone else! its certainly not a closed club.

Anon at 10:56:02 Monday April 21 2003
so why can't we read cc2? It is a CLOSED club because no one ever tells you how to access the site.

oldbrook cobbler at 10:43:44 Monday April 21 2003
dave totally agree with you. i go on cc2 aswell and you cant hide there. why do you think its the same old people that post on here all the time? its probably just the same couple of people under about 50 names! if you want my advice stick on cc2 and leave cc1 for the kids with the exception of a few who probably are genuine.

Dave at 10:33:29 Monday April 21 2003
It's so easy to post on CC1 anonymously as anon or even as Bloke. On CC2 you have to give your email address and psot that each time. Doing this stops the cowardly act of slagging people off just because you don't agree. It also stops rumour mongers publishing complete and utter fabrications. You have to make responsible postings. There is plenty of humour and hasn't stopped people posting anti-trust or anti-club comments. If you cannot string more than three words together without cussing then it probably isn't for you.

I have an opinion, so don't make me out to be a heretic at 10:28:11 Monday April 21 2003
TOWNY, another prerequisite is to be able to type without dribbling over your PC. CC2 provides a forum for reasoned debate unlike the bile and vitriol that some of the knuckle scrapers spew on CC1.

Towny at 10:23:27 Monday April 21 2003
Besides 2: Isnt cc2 an exclusive club that you need to have the following criteria:- not to use any naughty words,not to upset trust members,not to have a sense of humour,no right-ish comments, at least on the offal website theres no board for "special cobblers fans"

Bloody Madness Of Not at 10:11:39 Monday April 21 2003
Kimberly footspar........um...........no comment................bingy

besides at 09:44:17 Monday April 21 2003
cc2 is the worst possible representation of cobblers fans. The amount of back-slapping and downright lack of humour does us no credit.

re: TCMP at 09:42:54 Monday April 21 2003
how convenient it would be if he were to hide once more on cc2, the self-proclaimed man of the people separated from the average fan who he is supposed to represent, rather like sitting in the directors' box don't you think?

Vlad at 09:23:37 Monday April 21 2003
I'm not one of the "most of us agree" gang then because I don't think we had a decent squad! We only just had a squad at all. In reality we had a team and five fit subs if we were lucky made up of loanees, journeymen, has-beens and inexperience. In reality we had an average third division, stuggling to survive collection of oddments. If they were "decent" they would have tried a lot harder no matter who the manager was. They are all mercenaries and need sorting out with the other rubbish that freeloads in the backroom.

Take the Flak at 09:23:36 Monday April 21 2003
JOHN RAYNER - Don't let the snipers get to you John. There are a few on here who have total blind faith in the club. The same people would have also welcomed GDS!! The majority share your opinion John and cannot fathom out how or why Wilkinson got the gig. These so called loyal supporters don't realise just how much they allow the club to slip backwards. Still we all have an opinion, just you keep posting yours.

John Rayner at 08:51:19 Monday April 21 2003
To Rayners Choice: Why are you getting all edgy? I asked a simple question - Do I not have the right to speak my mind? It would be too easy to roll over and hope for the best but that won't really help. Why should things simply change because you want them to, it doesn't make sense. Most of us agree we had a decent squad at the start of the season and since Broadhurst left all three managers (Kearney had a go too in reality) have failed to even get the players to try. Don't you think something is wrong there?

Not Important!! at 22:29:53 Sunday April 20 2003
fao ctr kettering whoever you are, how can you say that the chairman isn't important. Direones would not have even been formed without griggs and without Cardoza NTFC would be out of business!! who do you think pays for the striker that you put up front?

Rayners Choice at 22:25:39 Sunday April 20 2003
John Raynor, if you were chairman you could choose whoever you wanted to be manager, go on give it a go. All you have to do is put up a million or so to pay back the Cardoza'a for what they have put in since christmas then you can choose whoever you want as manager and get slagged of by some muppet just like you who is so f****ng negative he probably walks around with a "the world is nigh" a-board round his neck. Hmm now let me see TCMP's rally call or your negative shit? which shall I go for? TCMP if your listening, just give up mate whenever you come on this site some wise arse has a pop and gets all "political" post back on CC2 where you get the common sense without the brickbats.

FAO FAO The Walsall Reject Supporter at 21:59:57 Sunday April 20 2003
any of those managers are gods compared to "nil points" martin

FAO FAO CTR Kettering at 21:58:38 Sunday April 20 2003
in that case we'll have Onandi Lowe up front and max griggs as chairman, dumbass

FAO CTR Kettering at 21:51:58 Sunday April 20 2003
Who is centre forward is important. Who is Chairman is not very important.

FAO The Walsall Reject Supporter at 21:50:12 Sunday April 20 2003
What do you drink? Or is it....smoke?

CTR Kettering at 21:29:45 Sunday April 20 2003
Unless I am missing something here, we were taken over by a three man consortium of whom all three have been or are the Chairman. Why didn't Cardoza just do it from the start. If they want to be taken seriously they're not sending out the right message. It is becoming a joke. I don't see the point of having interchangeable Chairman. Whose next, Cardoza senior ? It wouldn't surprise me, but after the last few months, nothing would. I know I should be grateful to them for saving the club, but though they may have some cash between them, they seem to have about as much gumption as Dumb And Dumber And Even Dumber.

Northampton Gas at 19:55:35 Sunday April 20 2003
You want Ray Graydon, we will let you have have him provided you take John Still as well. At least it looks like well be playing one another again next season, I can't wait.

Silly me.... at 19:42:06 Sunday April 20 2003
Neither are "yes men"

Anon at 19:40:51 Sunday April 20 2003
How about Ray Graydon?

Managers at 19:40:26 Sunday April 20 2003
Colin Lee could be leaving Walsall even though they stayed up again. Go and get him!

Obvious Answer at 19:38:15 Sunday April 20 2003
A board that want a weak manager so that they buy the players themselves. If it doesn't work then MW will get blamed anyway.

John Rayner at 19:07:05 Sunday April 20 2003
Can someone please please answer me this question in all seriousness. Who, in their right mind, especially if they were investing money would choose Wilko as the Manager? I don't know anyone even if they know nothing about football that would choose him. This has been a bonkers season and I can't see an end to the madness. TCMP just spews a rallying cry but it won't change the way our club is run. If Wilko likes the Cobblers so much he should resign. It is so obvious he is clueless.

Ken Mbongo at 19:01:57 Sunday April 20 2003
TCMP is a Labour MP. One of Tony Blairs croneys. The man who sold the Labour Party down the river. Nene? No shit creek.

So what at 18:50:55 Sunday April 20 2003
So what is your point "conflict of Interst" I thought one of the falings was that we were going out of business and were looking to nomarks and con men to get us out of the shit, and now we have a chance to grow the club we nearly lost and buy a few players as well. But perhaps I missed something that your superior brain didn't? or are you just having a pop for the sake of it? Perhaps you should go on the board? give us your credentials and we will match em against TCMP's. until then go and play on the motorway.

Anon at 18:29:15 Sunday April 20 2003
But Ted you are an exception in more ways than one.

new pecking order at 18:12:02 Sunday April 20 2003
RDFC, NTFC, KTFC. not long ago it was NTFC, KTFC, RDFC. funny ennit?

Anon at 18:04:36 Sunday April 20 2003
TRB, you are a glutton for punishment.

Ted at 18:04:12 Sunday April 20 2003
TRB Mark...I take exception to your"non-Northampton fans are the most loyal"I was born and bred and indeed still live in the heart of tayn and nobody is more loyal or partisan than me.

TRB Mark at 17:38:58 Sunday April 20 2003
Well, here's one NTFC I'boro based fan who will be buying a season ticket for the Cobblers next season and I know the other Cobblers fans here feel the same. I suspect that us non-Northampton based fans are the most loyal and the floating fans are in Town. Well, having had the last laugh last season, so us that live alongside rushden fans just have to take it. In a couple of years, it may all be reversed. So it's almost goodbye to the worst season I can remember and the biggest dissapointment for me is the way the team failed to respond to the new managers, which most teams do and even the inevitable relegation failed to see the team play with out the fear factor. I suggest that the management team have a word with Northants police, borrow a few Tazer guns and for the Plymouth game, shoot 50,000 volts up the arses of any player going through the motions. And the Stockport fan is right, we do deserve to go down and go down we have, without fighting .

Conflict of Interest at 17:18:57 Sunday April 20 2003
what's the point of having an MP on the board if all he's gonna do is come out with the usual "jolly good show, chin up lads" rubbish? Plenty of that with the man utd prawn sandwich brigade. So he opposed gds, so what? All the failings that were there before are still there.

Anon at 17:15:14 Sunday April 20 2003
One good scout will not suddenly make the worst manager in the league a good one.

Don't ask at 16:34:36 Sunday April 20 2003
all this Wilko bashing has to stop, here and now. MK whats the point in asking TCMP to pass comment on MW. The decision is taken and thats it and whilst TCMP usually gives it as he sees it, there are some things I am sure he cannot say. Getting behind the club means all the way not we are with you but if it were us we would do this and this differently. I blame Championship Manager as nowadays everyone thinks they can manage better than those who cut a living at it. Hill and Wilko seem a balanced pair to me, all they need now is for Graham Carr to come in and do a bit of scouting on the side for his old mates.

Lurtz at 16:13:46 Sunday April 20 2003
Ted, your news has made me so happy I could just shit.

Anon at 14:16:00 Sunday April 20 2003
Pleased Ted,We're ecstatic.

Ted at 14:11:37 Sunday April 20 2003
One thing that TCMP did say which nobody can argue withis that you can either give up in which case there is no point coming on here anymore,or you can get behind whatever plans the Cardoza's have for this club.It's their money,and if they feel that Wilkinson and Hill are capable of spending whatever budget they are given wisely, then those that choose to remain loyal to the cause must get behind the club.Otherwise we are going to go down exactly the same road as we have this season.You will all be pleased to know that I've made my decision to stay loyal and once again buy my season ticket as I firmly believe we have a board with both the enthusiasm and more importantly the financial capital to take this club forward.

MK Cobbler at 13:20:44 Sunday April 20 2003
What I find puzzling in the current crisis is the confidence the Cardozas appear to have placed in Wilko. Nothing against the guy but he has come back intom management after many years as a backroom assistant and I don't quite follow the logic of his permanent appointment. It is the Cardozas money and none of us know what budget Wilko has been given for next season. But if it was my money I would only entrust it to a proven manager (plenty out there putting aside the nonsense written about the likes of Reid, Burley etc.) and for reasons I cannot fathom the opportunity seems to have been lost. Can TCMP as a board member shed any light on the situation?

moany from the west at 13:09:24 Sunday April 20 2003
the back page of the chron sums up our youth development capability and underlines the fact the club need its arse kicking from the 1st 11 to the club shop i sat in front of one of the senior staff {not kearney}i heard could hear him taking the p=ss out of some of the up and coming players while his ego boosting entourage of 16 n 17 yr olds laughed at his jokes to stay in his good books no doubt.this makes you realise the size of the task of cardoza and wilko have.to sort out the mess were in the clearout must continue off the pitch and a long way down the tunnel and into the corridors to find a load more overpaid and bigger underperformers.

Tarquin at 12:41:46 Sunday April 20 2003
Well said NT FCOK at 11:59:23 Sunday April 20 2003

The Real Answer at 12:40:42 Sunday April 20 2003
Read what Anon at 11:57:58 posted, them up the road have used a lot of youngsters this season, not just moneybags. We'll never get anywhere until we start producing our own players.......

Dark Room at 12:32:56 Sunday April 20 2003
Go and lay down in a dark room NT FCOK, I think the pre easter sun has got to you you fool. I bet on your wedding day at the reception you stood on your feet and said "I dont care what anybody think's ,so here we go......... My wifes ugly and her parents are dweebs....f^7k the honeymoon I am staying at home with the dog.... and until my wife turns into Kelly Brook overnight and starts turning me on then I am witholding the housekeeping money. ...........you play and we'll pay policy is what's needed .......................Dork

Town y at 12:21:43 Sunday April 20 2003
I take offence at being called a prick and a wanker. With an attitude like yours,The club doesnt need you or your consistently negative comments.Did you listen to anything Wilko said after fridays game,they are getting rid of the crap,he said he wouldnt be doing his job properly if he didnt,and said the Cardozas will be putting a substantial amount of money forward in the summer. Love him or hate him TCMP's comments at least fill me with some positives for the summer ahead.I agree getting rid of Broadhurst was a mistake,so was installing Fenwick,Now we have Wilko get used to it! cos you aint gonna make any difference with your 1 man protest. Im gonna buy a season ticket without fail... again,because im still a cobblers supporter and allways will be....... unlike you!!

NT FCOK at 11:59:23 Sunday April 20 2003
I dont care what anybody think's ,so here we go......... Getting rid of braodhurst was a massive mistake he would have got us at least three wins from the misery that surrounded sixfields after his departure, most people here talk bullshit, lets go to t&t for some cheap potatoes sorry i mean players, fuc(ing shite if any was spewed on this site......... rhubard and custard will take fans if only initially ,but thats where will it count,so will whimbillyoden, ..............we need a manager not a scout and whoever that could and should be will bring his own #2 with him so bye bye richard hill, we need new players but that's up to the new manager .....I say this because martin wilkinson is not a manager and if he remains then the writing is already on the wall .....Another huge fu(k up by the board who will next year with ten games to go run scarred at the prospects of conference football. we are already on our way to the conference ...with two places looming every team will be making efforts to stay in and we are not,, look a rovers swansea exeter,etc etc etc, we are going into the conference with wilko, what is needed now is positives from them who have suffered this up and down buisness for the last seven years ....you the fans that's who,,, we need drastic measures like not buying season tickets but only go when they start to repay the loyalty of the fans and have to perform on the pitch and the boardroom to get confidences back,, this might not sound pretty and positive but come this time next year and we are in the basement then it is too late to react.........the time is now and until the message get's across...................We have to force issue's here at this club and a "stay away until they play" is something that has to be looked at I know the usual pricks with" we need to support the club shite" will react to this but whats new ...........nothing except we are down again ...we can do it in the second but not the third..I really do beleive we will be sitting at the bottom this time next season.........dont buy your season ticket let them sort out the finances and then they will have to be more astute than they have been..................DONT BUY SEASON TICKETS...........you play and we'll pay policy is what's needed .......................Ive read all the do gooders message's all season on this site and what a bunch of wan(ers they have been ....................it didn't stop us getting relegated did it............. despite the ticket prices going up???

Anon at 11:57:58 Sunday April 20 2003
Saturday�s victory over Carlisle means that promotion to the Second Division has been achieved at only the second time of asking. It�s a wonderful milestone for the club and a fantastic achievement from the players. And the Diamonds boss was quick to salute his players for their efforts over a long and tiring season. Brian said: "It�s been hard work and it�s been my hardest season in football management. However, I can�t thank the players enough. They have been magnificent and they deserve all the praise. �We have only had a squad of 20 players all season and the kids that have come in have been superb. I could not have done it without them but the senior players have been the cornerstone. "The likes of Turley, Underwood, Hunter, Darby and Lowe have been a credit to this club. But everyone must take the credit because it has been a marvellous team effort. We have all stuck together and although there has been a lot of problems on and off the pitch the lads have knuckled down, worked hard and we have just got on with the job.�

West Stander at 11:49:25 Sunday April 20 2003
I have decided to adopt a "wait and see" approach to buyng a season ticket for next season. I have not had value for money this year. It has been rubbish to watch and suffer. Clearing out the "deadwood" goes beyond those whose contracts run out next month.

The Drilling Cobbler at 11:21:50 Sunday April 20 2003
Yep reasurring words. However, my mini protest of abandoning the team(if you can call them a team) continues for at least the remainder of this season. However, if what Tony and Wilko say and other comments concerning new signings materialise of cause I will renew. I wouldnt be on this bloody site if i didnt care! Quite frankly the current side(a few individuals excepted) is an absolute disgrace. We went into this season with a squad that on paper was the best we have had since the 86/87 team. And I include proven scorer Jamie Forrester within that.38points from 43 games is what they have achieved, with cup defeats against lower league oppostion in 2 of the 3 competions to rub sault into the wounds. Yes there have been mitigating circumstances, but nothing should stop them giving 100% committment and effort at all times. You cannot tell me that once the players cross the white line they have takeovers/personal issues on their minds? They have lacked the basics that one expects from any footballers - strong in the tackle, a collective team strategy and the marking of oppostion players, particularly from set pieces. I hope none of the released players finds themselves a number club, although it could be argued that if another div3 team signs any of them it will increase our own chances of success. I have heard many rumours about funds being made available, the last one being that 2million was being given to Wilko to spend in the summer. A more reliable source(who told me 6weeks ago that McGregor was quitting the game to concentrate on his band in the States) has told me that a 'significant' figure is available for team strengthening. However, what I cannot get my head round is that if this is the case why on earth would we be interested in keeping Dudfield, as appears to be the case? Maybe Tony can confirm that significant funds are available, I would not expect anything more specific. Is anyone actually going to Tranmere tomorrow? If so, I would suggest to Tony that he takes it up with the club that those people are given some kind of recognition for their loyalty. To spend an entire bank holiday Monday travelling upto scouse land and back to celebrate relegation(wasnt it at Tranmere we got relegated under Graham Carr)deserves something, maybe free tickets for the first home game next season. I always thought I had unwavered loyalty but there comes a time when even I have had enough. That point has now been reached. Tony draws comparrisons between the current team and the side that Chard managed - I have recently drawn exactly the same ones. My issues are not footballing/results driven ones - the Chard team simply didnt have the ability and the wages that the players got were no more than yours or mine, and indeed in most cases were probably lower. The current players earn far more than doctors/airline piolots/scientists/high ranked officers/politicians(!) - the list is endless. Enough said...

Lee Harper at 10:44:07 Sunday April 20 2003
Oooh Ray, thanks, didn't know you cared!!!!

DRD2 at 09:34:02 Sunday April 20 2003
I love you too TCMP

Pihuan at 08:18:55 Sunday April 20 2003
Good to see TCMP back on this site,and what he says is re-assuring. I'll be back next season because I'm a sad git, and because it is a part of my life and has been for longer than I care to remember. For a lot of this season I have been wondering what the point is, and still feel badly let down, especially on Friday when the team should at least have been playing for their pride, but gave one of the most gutless performances I've ever seen.But at least it looks as if we have a sound footing now and a chance to go forward. The irony is that this looks one of the strongest squads we've had, but they have only put in a few decent performances all season. It was nice to see the County fans happy on Friday, they seem a decent bunch, and I suppose Challinor's exocet throw in is one for the memory book.

Ray at 05:35:21 Sunday April 20 2003
I just had a dream i was in bed with Lee Harper.owwwwww Lee u sex god

Freddie WILKO Krueger at 05:34:06 Sunday April 20 2003
1-2 wilkos comin 4 u 3-4 leave yor tacktics at the door

Nightmare On Sixfield 8 (Here comes wilko) at 05:30:46 Sunday April 20 2003
Hi Sorry to come on so late/early however u lookat it ive just woken in a awful swett after the more fowl and disgustingly disturb nightmare ever. It all began at the first game of the season next yr (first games against yeovil if your wondering) and im sitting in my seat as the music begans to play And here come the cobblers And out runs the team a pact stadium for the season opner and then there it was out came the manager Wilko noooooooooooooooooooooooooooo. It was like being 5 nil down b4 kick off wilko was still here for the new season. Tahen i awoke but still i see the sight of wilko walking out i ant get the vision out of my head. All i can say is the sooner we stop thios NIGHTMARE THE BETTER. SACK WILKO NOW.

TCMP at 00:48:43 Sunday April 20 2003
Ted, we will have to see who we need for the Trinidad trip. Its a business venture and the club makes money from the two fixtures planned and the sponsorship surrounding them so we will take anyone we need. Fans should not think of it as a holiday, I am sure given the chance many of the players would prefer the season to end after the Mansfield game instead of having another two games in the heat the following week. But the fact that we can pull off a trip like this and look to bring in some young talent from T&T and at the same time make a bit of money shows what is possible if you put your mind to it. We have to treat the MK stuff the same way as we treat the pathetic ramblings on here from Diamond's fans, just ignore them and get on with the task in hand. Wimbledon are losing 10's of thousands of �s a week (someone told me �100,000+ a week) so they might as well give the season tickets away to try to bring in a fan base. I predict that the gates at Sixfields next year will outstrip R&D's and Franchise FC (superior product my ar$e) and our season tickets prices will be based on whats needed to turn around the club financially. And lets put this collusion business to bed once and for all. If I thought there was a even a slight whif of MK/Cobblers co-operation I would be out the door quicker than you can say GDS. I think the whos in or out of contract question has been answered, but expect a lot of new faces over the summer. TCMP

SCFC Barmy Army at 22:03:54 Saturday April 19 2003
Two games, seven goals for, none against. All I can say is 'sorry' :) On the showing of those two games you probably deserve to go down but you've played 41 other games so it's hardly reflective. Still, good luck next season Cobblers & come back up as soon as possible, that was one of the best away trips I've had in quite a while (except for those psychotic police of yours, grr). Oh, and you can't have Ali Gibb back. Stockport's Barmy Army!

Anon at 21:46:39 Saturday April 19 2003
Enjoy it while it lasts DRD2. Diremoans have never been in Div 2 and are you in for a shock! We may or may not see you in 2004/5, but if we do it will be in Div 3.

Anon at 21:43:54 Saturday April 19 2003
Anon 19:16:14 If you think in those terms, we could get the season tickets down to about �20 each, but we'd have to go to the racecourse for our players.

DRD2 at 21:42:36 Saturday April 19 2003
Just got back, we are gonna be CHAMPIONS!!!!!! We don't even need Onandi to do it. DIAMONDS! DIAMONDS! DIAMONDS! DIAMONDS! DIAMONDS! DIAMONDS! DIAMONDS! DIAMONDS! DIAMONDS! DIAMONDS! DIAMONDS! DIAMONDS! DIAMONDS! DIAMONDS! DIAMONDS! DIAMONDS! DIAMONDS! DIAMONDS! DIAMONDS! DIAMONDS! DIAMONDS! DIAMONDS! DIAMONDS! DIAMONDS! DIAMONDS! DIAMONDS! I'm off for a celebratory pint or seven

Anon at 20:03:15 Saturday April 19 2003
The worrying thing is that of last night's pitiful performance more than half the team was made up on players who will be with us next year!!

Sonya Nipple-Ring at 20:02:12 Saturday April 19 2003
Wilkinson is clearly not up to it. Reid was furious that the substitution took so long when he was clearly injured. Clueless! Anyone see the fellow who took off his shirt. threw it in front of the home bench in the first half then stormed out? Flawless! Trollope is a prick. He couldn't care less!

Anon at 20:00:27 Saturday April 19 2003
Out of contract are Gill, Burgess, Frain, McGregor, Gabbi, Spedding, Hope, Abbey and Lincoln. Rahim, Dudfield & Reid are loanees and their loan periods are up at the end of the season.

west stand woman at 19:45:12 Saturday April 19 2003
TCMP can you tell which players are out of contract at the end of the season?

Interesting at 19:44:29 Saturday April 19 2003
"Anon at 19:16:14 Saturday April 19 2003" His goals equate to going down at Easter instead of Christmas, however.

Ted at 19:22:27 Saturday April 19 2003
TCMP..MK Cobbler has raised an important issue with regard to the much cheaper season ticket for a superior product.This needs to be adressed by the club as a matter of urgency.I know that if I lived in MK and had witnessed last nights debacle I'd be sorely tempted.

gaz at 19:18:37 Saturday April 19 2003
Anyone got any news regarding the re-signing of Ali Gibb?

pmh at 19:16:15 Saturday April 19 2003
Diamonds are going to hold an open top bus ride to celebrate them getting promoted--the club will name the 6 telephone boxes all of their fans can stand in to view

Anon at 19:16:14 Saturday April 19 2003
Here's an interesting piece of information .The saving of Gabby's wages next year equates to a saving of more than �60 off the price of a season ticket.

MK Cobbler at 19:10:46 Saturday April 19 2003
Ted, I don't think so. Anyway, as a MK Cobbler I will be renewing my seson ticket and doing as TCMP exhorts. It is always darkest just before......

Ted at 19:02:22 Saturday April 19 2003
MK Cobbler..The news of the �210 season ticket will just add fuel to the collusion theory as it's a through the back door way of dissolving NTFC without a protest.

Ted at 18:57:05 Saturday April 19 2003
TCMP..This Trinidad trip intrigues me.I take it that those who will be released at the end of the season will not go on tour.Therefore they must know already that they are being released as surely the travel arrangements have been made.Why then did we play certain players last night who obviously showed through their lack of effort that they have no future at the club and no pride.

lyndes at 18:54:31 Saturday April 19 2003
TCMP, what a man, keep spreading the word. Fans should reaslise that they play a really big part in team morale which ultimately has an effect on their performance on the pitch. Those fairweather fans who have been on the clubs back have as large a part to play in the clubs present situation as any of the squad and management.

MK Cobbler at 18:51:58 Saturday April 19 2003
Ted, so much collusion that Wimbledon are offering their best season tickets at a price of �210 for their 1st season in MK. I detest the decision that has allowed Wimbledon to move to MK but that is a dead issue now and with a threat to our crowds down the M1 and, let's face it, a threat also from R&D who will take some of our floating support in that part of Northants NTFC has to respond in a big way.

Ted at 18:41:39 Saturday April 19 2003
Exactly what we wanted to hear Tony,fighting talk.Wilkinson said last night that fans will forgive the relegation if they see effort,and this effort must be made from top to bottom and most importantly filter down into the team.I was quite positive after last nights game as I felt we finally reached the watershed.What has happened this season has tested the loyalties of most supporters including myself.Nevertheless I'm sure most of us will take our seats next year for the next gripping instalment in the history of NTFC.What I will say though is I would love to see a fighting message from those that run the club to rally the troops as it were.As I said earlier the one thing I heard several times last night was, whats going on? Perhaps a message in the local press as well as on the web-site so everyone can see the effort intended.There's still talk of collusion with the Wimbledon move to MK.This needs to be put to bed once and for all.The Chron seems to love the negative comments regarding the club,so give them positive ones to write.

FAO Che Prick at 18:39:43 Saturday April 19 2003
"This club belongs to the fans". Yeah - and if they'd raised �500,000 more they might have owned it. And another �500,000 to buy a player and pay the manager of their choice - although they wouldn't all have agreed. You can have your say if you want BUT - Manager Wilkinson, Assistant Hill. Rabbit all you like. Prick.

TCMP at 18:04:51 Saturday April 19 2003
I told you before Ted, I am always here, always watching, and always listening. And I am grateful for whoever posted below for their kind words about me being a football man!! greatest compliment any fan could pay to another, Thankyou. But the reality is as a football man I know that sometimes you have to think with your head not your heart. This season we have just not been good enough full stop and whilst I lay part of the blame on individuals who have not performed for us, I also know that matters off the pitch have not made it easy for anyone. Bob Church (Club President) said to me last night that Phil Chard had popped in to see him, and we compared the fight in the team he managed (all young boys on �50-100 a week) and some of the performances dished up by individuals at the club on a much greater wage. Well 8 players will be out of contract at the end of the season and somehow I think no more than two of them will be offered fresh terms. The events off the pitch have been unbelievable, three managers, four chairman, takeover bids from Nigerian Tribal chiefs represented by John Fashanu, and then an (alleged) Serb Warlord and all round bad egg in GDS and then the realisation that the club was going down the pan unless we raised the cash fast, then we have the SOS appeal, throw in the odd court case, and the threats of winding up orders and then finally the takeover ( Oh and many other problems trials and tribulations aside which have not even been mentioned publically) and a few more that . Yes, it does make Dream Team seem tame by comparison. And it has all taken its toll mentally and physically. But what keeps us going is the fact that off the field the club has gone from certain closure to the promise of ventures new under the stewardship of David Cardoza and his father Tony. They have the ambition and the staying power to get us through our trouble and if it were not for that silver lining I think I would be beside myself. Fans get angry and they get frustrated, they have every right to, I have been shouted at this season as has every other member of the board, and yes it hurts. The usual shout is "what the f**&ing hell are you going to do about it" or "Its all your F*%&ing fault" Well I tell you what we are going to do about it, we are going to work night and day over the summer to start putting it right. As was kindly said below we are football people, if we were not we would not keep turning up like the thousands of other Cobblers fans for more punishment. So we are relegated, nothing we can do about it perhaps its better it happened last night so we can accept our fate and move on. But whilst theres breath in my body I will work to support this club and help those like the Cardoza's who are willing to make the future brighter than the immediate past. So, Whos with me? Ted? Drilling? Childs View? Slim Martin? Uncle Tom Cobbly and all? WE either give up and let clubs like the Diamonds walk all over our history or we stand up and fight for the day when we turn the tables back round. I know the direction in which my energy will be turned in the next few weeks and months and possibly years, so anyone else fancy coming along?

west stand woman at 18:02:01 Saturday April 19 2003
DIAMONDS WONT BE CHAMPIONS HARTLEPOOL WILL BE CHAMPIONS!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Anon at 17:18:19 Saturday April 19 2003
looks like rushden might end up as champions after all.

Anon at 17:10:43 Saturday April 19 2003
how long till the d******s twat gets on here,sad little prick

Hotel Ender at 16:20:58 Saturday April 19 2003
Like many on here I cannot understand why Wilko was given the job on a permanent basis - he was only going to be in charge until the end of the season, why didn't the club stick to that? We had the opportunity to actually advertise the position - that would at least have indicated who actually wanted the job (and stop the usual wish lists of George Burley, Peter Reid etc). I think (once again) the club have gone for the easy/cheap option and again it'll rebound in their faces. Last time we advertised for a manager we appointed Ian Atkins - at least the club had a choice of candidates on that occasion, and although ultimately Atkins had to go, he didn't do too bad in his first few seasons did he? (and no I'm not calling for his return - I felt we held onto him too long after all the clubs had sussed us out).

Che at 15:10:18 Saturday April 19 2003
Hello Deaf Prick - Who are you to tell me what to say, think, do or go? It is because of backward thinking, totally sycophantic dick wits like you that this club finds itself where it is. This club belongs to the fans and as such fans will have their say whether you agree with it or not. Even you refer to it as a 'lost cause' so people like me will keep on until it is righted. Wilkinson must go, and the sooner the better. Take Kearney and Curtis with you too please. By the way nobody expected Ferguson, Robson et. al. but neither did we expect nor deserve Wilkinson.

Hello deaf ones at 15:01:21 Saturday April 19 2003
The manager is Martin Wilkinson, his deputy Richard Hill. It is not, nor will it ever be, Alex Ferguson, Bobby Robson etc. What you must do is (1) refuse to accept it, shut up and piss off or (2) accept it, shut up and hang around. Never has so much whingeing gone on over a lost cause. I think you will also find that you cannot 'sack' players - you can pay them their year's salary and wave goodbye. But can we afford 8 or 9 'non players' on top of the 20 or so players we need for a season?

Anon at 14:52:20 Saturday April 19 2003
I suppose the best we can really hope for is that Wilkinson resigns. Soon!

Bloody Madness Of Notkimberly footspar at 14:29:29 Saturday April 19 2003
Not kimberly footspar,.............um i think you know my views on this matter........bingy

I know what TCMP thinks at 14:21:29 Saturday April 19 2003
TCMP is a football man, he's played the game at local level and run Labour Club too. I haven't asked him nor has he offered me the information but he is a football man so we know how he feels. TCMP feels just like the rest of us, let down, frustrated and totally p***ed off with this crass and completely fart arsed appointment of Martin Wilkinson. Trouble is the position he holds within the club makes it impossible for him to admit it. Poor bloke!!

Here we go again at 14:17:46 Saturday April 19 2003
It's okay saying that we need a clearout but too many of the team last night are sill going to be here next season. Harper, Sampson, Stamp, Trollope all of whom should be paid up and shown the door. I'm not convinced that Wilkinson has it in him to get rid of those out of contract and wouldn't be in the least surprised to see Frain, Burgess, Marsh still here next season. bAnd who is he likely to bring in? I DO NOT TRUST HIS JUDGEMENT! The club had a real ooprtunity to rid us of this excess baggage and I put Kearney and Curtis in that same category. We needed a new man at the helm and a new backroom staff to begin a new era. What will happen is Wilko will get the sack by Christmas and we'll be left with a new bunch of second rate footballers who have another 18 months on their contracts. You can see it happening, it is just a shame the rest of the directors can't. GROUND HOG DAY!!

Viv at 14:09:53 Saturday April 19 2003
They obviusly didn't pay!! Lucky buggers.

Anon at 14:08:59 Saturday April 19 2003
What about the people who left early? I know of 2 that left when the 3rd went in and quite a few more that went at half time

Viv at 14:07:00 Saturday April 19 2003
Last nights attendance of 5800 was not necessarily an accurate reflection of the Town's support of their club. You have to remember that the season ticket holders have been claiming their free guest tickets, I have used my four for all the available games (although I'm struggling to get rid of the Plymouth match). Stockport brought their full quota last night (and in my opinion take the away fans of the season award for non-stop singing and that includes the singing in the pubs before the game!! Well done lads). Also the club were issuing free tickets at Weetabix and other companies I suspect, hence the North Stand was as full as I have seen it this season. Take away all the free tickets and we'd have been lucky to do 4000.

Ted at 13:44:39 Saturday April 19 2003
Yet more negative publicity in todays Chron.Whilst the local league team is in complete disarray so many unanswered questions regarding the club,no less than half of the back page is devoted to a local combination player being plucked from his team in Harpole to play for Coventry Reserves.It appears to me either Casey is not doing his job of finding out whats happening on and off the pitch or as I suspect he is none the wiser of what is going on at our club.Surely now is the time for leading figures at the club to publicly state what has gone wrong, and their intentions for putting it right.A vow of silence only increases speculation and in turn discontent among the fans.

The Drilling Cobbler at 13:08:27 Saturday April 19 2003
Couldnt take the pain last night so I got pissed instead! The first home game in 15years that I have missed which I could have gone to. Only about the 6th game in total. Whats the point in making the effort when the players dont bother? West Stand Women, I admire your loyalty but I fear that its blind loyalty! The players dont deserve you. They dont deserve me, Ted, A childs view, LH or anon. They should be forced to play the final home game infront of only the diamonds twat who spends all his social time(ie, Friday evenings) posting on this site! People like him give 'his club' a bad name! Talk about having no life. I couldnt believe the attendance at last nights game - higher than it was when we still had a chance of stopping up. After such a long time of saying I'm not going to go next week I finally kept to my word. Despite having a paid for ticket. The majority of the squad we have are mercany bastards. Get rid. What made me laugh last week was people claiming that the 2nd half showing at Port Vale(of which I didnt go to) was partly down to Richard Hills influence. If true, he obviously wasnt there last night then. For a start he would have surely told his boss that playing Dudfield on the right hand side of midfield was not a particularly good idea! Its frightening that decisions like that are being made by the management team who some people believe will get us back up next season. I suggest that those people who do bother going to the final home game(and/or Mansfield) spend the entire time booing the team. Every time one of the wankers touches the ball people should remind him that he is a disgrace. Personnally I would play the under 19's and see what they are made of. 50/80/100/150k a year salaries should be justified and demand 100% effort and committment. It makes me angry that some people still applaud them whatever. I expect better and will not return to sixfields until the trash are kicked out and we have genuine people wearing the claret and white shirts.

80 grand at 12:43:43 Saturday April 19 2003
for Derek would be bloody good business. We might get someone man-sized to replace him!

therealslimmartinw at 12:34:12 Saturday April 19 2003
TOTAL AND UTTER...: If there is to be a bright tomorrow we need a bright leader.. not a, let's face facts here, a loser. That is an insulting thing go say, but Martin Wilkinson's already abysmal record is actually, incredibly, WORSE, since he came to us, with only two victories now in 11 games. Discredit where discredit is due, he should not be in the job and should never even have been given a sniff of it. Full stop. We are becoming or rather have become something of a laughing stock. I sincerely hope and pray that the appointment of David Cardoza as chairman and what effectively means the shifting of Ken Good as acting chairman marks a shift in the direction of the club and that it will result in a total shake up of the club. Interesting to hear Cardoza indicate that he and his dad have been involved in other business interests and are now going to "step up" their involvement in the club. I'll leave the last word to Mr Wilkinson, as quoted at the March Trust meeting:"I can't promise anyone success, all I can promise is hard work and determination." Nuff said.

B.J.M at 12:21:35 Saturday April 19 2003
Been a while since I last visited. I agree that serious rebuilding needs to be done. However word is that a deal has already been done with Wolves for Derek, where are the goals going to come from?

Terry Greenhalf at 12:19:51 Saturday April 19 2003
what the heck has happened to the Cobblers? Once a side full of promise, now they resemble a shattered mess of ideas. OK its division 3 now but will the rebuilding now start? I hope so.

BR at 12:04:20 Saturday April 19 2003
As far as I'm concerned the rebuild starts NOW not next season. I took some "Guests" last night on the freebie ticket to season ticket holders deal and what they saw was (obviously) appalling. This season is lost but how the hell are we going to attract new fans if that pile of crap is all they can see? I couldn't even interest them in free tickets for the Plymouth match so how are we going to convince people to pay next season? As for the players - clear the bloody lot out now, without exception and put a fan's team out for the last home match. I bet there would be more passion out there. I'll go in goal. I got my hand on the ball more than Harper last night and I was sitting in west stand!

oldbrook cobbler at 11:53:22 Saturday April 19 2003
ted, tcmp is too busy with other things at the minute (the unjust war for instance). this is not his main job you know just a hobby if you like and only if he has the time will he come on here and digest. usually on his way back from london on the train if memory serves me right.

Ted at 11:37:31 Saturday April 19 2003
What I want to know is. In these times of great turmoil,and with many supporters threatening not to renew their season tickets.Where the hell is that great voice of the fans The Northampton Town Supporters Trust and particularly TCMP? If ever we needed some voice of optimism and encouragement it's now! What I heard most from fans seated around me was"Whats going on"?.Come on TCMP tell us!

Bill at 10:42:01 Saturday April 19 2003
Puerile reasons for last night being annoying: The spirit of Woody returning in Harper's banana goal kicks. Craptitude on a ridiculous scale. Some kid sat next to me screaming "Come on Gobblers" at regular intervals. Fat Stockport fans getting their beer bellies out. Sensible reasons for being annoyed by last night: seemingly no effort on the part of the cobblers, and I find on my return from a year in Sheffield that Frain, who I thought was going to at least be pensioned off last year if not two years ago, is still in the starting squad. Reasons for hope: Derek Asamoah and 5,800ish fans turning up. I think.

Ted at 10:04:57 Saturday April 19 2003
A Childs View...Good post.Wilkinson seems to be most fans greatest concern. A lot of the rubbish will be gone by the start of next season,and success will not only be attained by what players we bring in,but the style we play with those players.Trollope is one player that really confuses me.A welsh international,who by all accounts had a great game in his last international,but is an habitional non-performer in the 2nd division.Will he be a better player in the 3rd? I have my doubts because he's a player who needs time and space,something that you don't get in the lower leagues.Gabby has to go. He's not only the highest paid player,but his legs have gone,and it's painfull to watch.The forward line worries me,as we still need that out and out goal scorer that we have craved for for the last few seasons.Youngs is a class player,there's no doubting that but he needs to blend into a team that brings the best out of him.I have my doubts about Duffield,and ofcourse Stamp is Stamp and will never be a crowd pleaser.Asamoah is a great player and really must start every game.His pace will frighten the living daylights out of 3rd division defenders,but there needs to be an end product in his good work.Above all though we need to bring in players with big hearts and not big ego's.We need a captain who will die for the cause and will inspire those around him.A great irony ofcourse is that at last we have financial stability and rich people at the helm,but on the playing side are in the depths of despair.When the two finally blend,and they will, we will be a force to be reckoned with.

A Childs View at 08:59:57 Saturday April 19 2003
Can't be bothered to state the obvious. In a way I'm glad we got stuffed, it serves as a serious reflection of the state we are in and makes the inevitable relegation likely to be mathematical after today's other games have been played - at least then we know and can start thinking about next year rather than draw out the agony. I'm really struggling with the appointment of Wilko - his record is awful and we MUST have been able to afford a new manager. There are loads out of work and surely the 50k for Youngs would go some way to getting a more established manager at the club? If the Cardoza's have the wedge they are rumoured to, why didn't we get the most crucial signing of all right - as big a name manager as possible, after advertising the job, rather than another job for the boys scenario? In any event, I'll get behind him next season but my prediction is we'll be struggling in the 3rd, he'll be gone by Xmas and we'll do well to make the playoffs, mid-table is more likely. Comments below are right, I don't trust his player judgement - Reid is no better than ok, Dudfield isn't much good at all and Youngs has yet to prove anything. Youngs is more of a Jamie Forrester/Jamie Cureton than a target man - what was the official site on about with the post announcing his arrival? My season ticket is being purchased because, whatever happens, I don't want to miss it - its the pain of watching the Cobblers that give us the justification to REALLY enjoy the high times. I watched the Man U v Arsenal game with a load of Gooners and couldn't believe the way they were slating their team whilst they were struggling - they don't know their born to my mind and should come and watch the Cobblers for a season - that would teach them a thing or two about loyalty!!! Only players who I'm fussed about keeping are Harper (nowhere near as good as Welchy), Thompson, Gill, Harsley, CC, Hargreaves (off the boil at the moment) and Asamoah. I know that others are still in contract but if we can get shot so be it. Youngs shows a little promise but needs to play in a footballing side (like Cambridge) so I can't make a judgement on him. Frain, Sammo and Gabbs have to be moved on if possible and, as for Trollope, he's been the biggest dissappointment of the season. Only one more game to suffer, roll on next season and start praying for a miracle - my suspicions point to more struggle until Wilko goes, but you never know, football is a funny old game!

Telford Cobbler at 08:54:28 Saturday April 19 2003
Because he's cheap!

The Late Great Sid Martello at 08:41:44 Saturday April 19 2003
In all seriousness, can anyone give me a sensible reason as to why Wilko was appointed Manager?

Fed up with whinging armchair supporters at 08:29:44 Saturday April 19 2003
If you don't want to watch the Cobblers don't go. Stop whinging about it and stay at home. I'm proud to be a Cobblers supporter whatever division and go to watch them no matter what. COME ON TOWN!!!!!!!!!!!

Long time suffering Cobbler at 08:00:25 Saturday April 19 2003
Cool down guys. We were down long before last night and with too many players underperforming throughout the season it was hardly likely they were going to turn it on against Stockport. be thankful that the Cardozas own the club. Without their money we would not only be down but probably out of business. Relegation gives us chance to re-build and the club must be ruthless in doing this. I will be renewing my season ticket because the Cobblers are part of my life.

Rushden Fan at 03:35:41 Saturday April 19 2003
I feel like i support a fake team.

Suicidal Cobbler at 02:48:48 Saturday April 19 2003
Well, all you who said we lost to Oldham & Wigan because they were class sides, what do you say to us being totally outclassed by fellow relegation candidates tonight? The truth is, we make the crappiest of sides look world beaters. Imagine if you can that Stockport (and or any other div 2 side , apart from QPR) are Lennox Lewis, with his fist on the forehead of that little bald bloke from Benny Hill, who is furiously trying to throw bunny punches but is about 2ft 6 out of reach. That little bald bloke is NTFC. This season has been a total disaster from start to finish. 3 Managers and 4 chairmen in one season, and as my mate pointed out, the season isn't finished yet! We have had all the bad luck going too...the refs have been anything but even handed, key players injured at the wrong times (Harper springs to mind). The game that has summed this season up for me was the LDV game against Cambridge, for 30 minutes we pissed all over them and were 2-0 up, but still managed to lose 4-2. The players deserved all the stick they got tonight and more. And although DR2 is a total twat, but until they are struggling and thier fans are deserting Nene park for the garden centres, it's they who are on the up. But we have been in this postion before and we will be promoted again while at some point, direones will get relegated. It will happen.

MCHammer at 01:36:00 Saturday April 19 2003
I see the alcohol has kicked in. Are you a little disgruntled with the team at the moment????

Please dont take Asamoah away ....... at 01:26:57 Saturday April 19 2003
Hi, so i was speaking to my uncle on the phone earlier hes from sutton coldfield and he says that wolverhampton are apparantly trying to bring D Asamoah on a 80 k deal according to wolves website.Is this true

Sack the whole fucking Team at 01:22:40 Saturday April 19 2003
What a pile of shit i went after 43 mins, ive had a season ticket for past 5yrs and im finished with it , they can get fucked . We (northampton) deserve more than this were a big town and need a better team. Sack wilko for fuck sake yeah its great supporting your manager but at the end of the day its like supporting Daventry, there is no point he's shit, there shit full stop. We should have never got Atkins and maybe stick with a manager for more than 6 months. We fuck it anyway lets see them tossers put on more waste of time by playing out are last 4 games existance in div 2 (for ever?). And for all the cunts that are going to say 'oh i can't belive your not supporting the manager...well his a prick and so are you......................................One things for definate Stockport will miss us.

MCHammer at 01:06:18 Saturday April 19 2003
Oh yes I take it we are ignoring Fenwicks stats as well then....

MCHammer at 00:50:27 Saturday April 19 2003
Broads stats conveniently leave out the cup games against Cambridge I assume otherwise I make them 2-2-6 which isn't infinately better. Anyway my point is since the end of November we have been garbage no matter who is manager so quite why we all expected Wilko to miraculously turn us into world beaters I have no idea. As I say judge him next season not this but then people like yourself will want another new manager next week.

southbedscobbler at 00:29:28 Saturday April 19 2003
up as champs next year playing in front of big crowds at sixfields bring it on.

Tony at 00:19:42 Saturday April 19 2003
Out with... Spedding, Sampson, Hope, Frain, McGregor, Gabbiadini, Abbey, Dudfield... I think they are all out of contract right? Get rid of them for a start.. try and offload... Stamp, Rickers (He was ok, but too injury prone), Trollope, Lincoln (too inconsistent).

Do me a favour at 23:59:29 Friday April 18 2003
Timmy, Broads; P10 W4 D2 L4 Pts 14. Infinitely better!!

Anon at 23:53:50 Friday April 18 2003

Towny at 23:46:38 Friday April 18 2003
DRD2 ..youve been on her all fucking nite apart from about an hour,was that when you had to pretend to be asleep for mummy?

MCHammer at 23:24:49 Friday April 18 2003
Hey if the stats are that bad midway through next season I'll be joining you in slagging him off. Seeing as your such a statto could you just tell me what the stats were for Broadhursts last ten games and for Fenwick's seven??? We weren't exactly fantastic before he took over you know!!!

Another fact at 23:21:37 Friday April 18 2003
we have also failed to score in 6 out of the 10 matches Wilko has been in charge for.

Do me a favour at 23:18:35 Friday April 18 2003
Timmy, try this for facts, under Sgt Bilko we have played 10 games, won 2, drawn 1 and LOST 7. We have scored six goals and conceded bloody 18 all for a paltry return of 7 points from a possible 30!!!!!

DRD2 at 23:13:09 Friday April 18 2003
Anon at 23:08:54 - GUTTED

DRD2 at 23:12:10 Friday April 18 2003
Deepcut - looks like there's too many politicians on here tonight for your liking. When will you see the light?

DRD2 at 23:11:18 Friday April 18 2003
I am a Cobbler but have to say at 23:02:38 Friday April 18 2003 Deepcut, Diamonds youth set up is excellent and compered to the shambolic set up run by Paul Curtis Diamonds are light years ahead of us. How do I know, my brother-in-law works within both set ups. THANK YOU

Anon at 23:08:54 Friday April 18 2003
FOCK OFF RUBBISH.DUSTBINS. 1 SEASON IN DIV 2 THEN DOWN You are all armchiar wankers.OK.

MCHammer at 23:07:49 Friday April 18 2003
Look no disrespect but I think most Cobblers fans are pleased with the signing of Youngs. Anyway my original point is people like to point out the facts when they suit them but completly ignore the ones that don't back up their arguement. They then tend to just make cheap jokes at the expense of the name of the poster if they can't win the arguement. Of course you wouldn't do that though would you?????

Anon at 23:07:43 Friday April 18 2003
!!!!!

Do me a favour at 23:04:18 Friday April 18 2003
So how many goals has Youngs scored Timmy? I've nearly lost count of the ones he SHOULD have scored but muffed.

I am a Cobbler but have to say at 23:02:38 Friday April 18 2003
Deepcut, Diamonds youth set up is excellent and compered to the shambolic set up run by Paul Curtis Diamonds are light years ahead of us. How do I know, my brother-in-law works within both set ups.

MCHammer at 23:00:51 Friday April 18 2003
Your wrong I'm afraid Harsley was spotted by Wilko and his connections brought him here. Yes Broads was boss but he was when Stamp signed. Oh and lets add Youngs into the mix as well shall we???

Message for Mr Mallett or Timmy for short at 22:58:06 Friday April 18 2003
Wilko did not bring Harsley here, that was down to Broadhurst. I grant Reid was a different case, he was still responsible for Stamp and Dudfield and that is enough for any club to bear.

Anon at 22:55:58 Friday April 18 2003
West Stand Woman, what a load of guff, if we kept all our best players for next season we would hardly scrape a 5-a-side team!! Stick to the washing up.

MCHAMMER at 22:54:37 Friday April 18 2003
Yes and Wilko was also instrumental in bringing in HARSLEY and REID so don't just pick and choose your facts to suit.

Message for The Bloke With A Twitch at 22:54:05 Friday April 18 2003
No need for me to apologise you lose again, your judgement is about as good as Wilkinson's. Wilko's record to date: P10 W2 D1 L7 F6 A18!! Pts7 . . . . I rest my case BWAT!!

west stand woman at 22:52:57 Friday April 18 2003
tonight i thought that some players had a good game and some players had an off night that cant be helped now we have to look to the future and hold ours heads high and give it everything wev got to support the lads in the remaining games it now looks like we are going to be in divison 3 but we have to accept that and make sure we come straight back up again!!!!! i for 1 think that we are good enough to come straight back up and will be having a season ticket to support the lads in every way i can COME ON YOU COBBLERS YOUR PLAYING FOR PRIDE!!!!!! we all know that if we keep some of the best players wev got then we will come straight back up and it will be all smiles!!!!!!!!!

TONIGHT MATTHEW, I'M GOING TO WATCH A DIRE FOOTBALL TEAM at 22:51:04 Friday April 18 2003
It's all very well saying clear out the dead wood and we have the Cardoza's backing us . . . but does Wilkinson have any idea? He was instrumental in bringing Stamp and Dudfield to the club. I don't trust his judgement, nor do I believe he will be as ruthlrss as the situation demands. The Cardoza's should nvere have given him the job in the first place.

Blind Faith Strikes Again!! at 22:46:57 Friday April 18 2003
A group of three blokes in front of me leaving the ground were enjoying a bit of banter and saying how crap the Cobblers were. All three admitted that tonight was their first and last game and they wished they'd stayed in the boozer. Trouble with you Deepcut is you think everyone thinks like you, well we don't and people will vote with their feet very soon.

Deepcut Cobbler at 22:38:36 Friday April 18 2003
Did I say that? No. Read the English illiterate.

Anon at 22:35:48 Friday April 18 2003
"But then again, a defeat like this ensures that we all go again. We all keep going because every now and then we see a classic that makes it all worth while." Getting whacked 0-3, 0-5 at home is a classic? MORON.

Deepcut Cobbler at 22:31:33 Friday April 18 2003
Was the game as bad as the result? My two young kids were at the game in one of their rare opportunities to see the Cobblers. Are they going to be put off for life? But then again, a defeat like this ensures that we all go again. We all keep going because every now and then we see a classic that makes it all worth while. COME ON YOU COBBLERS!!!

Can't muster up any enthusiasm to be positive about anything to do with this bloody football club at 14:21:09 Friday April 18 2003 at 22:26:34 Friday April 18 2003
There are no positives at this club. We are that shit

Deepcut Cobbler at 22:24:39 Friday April 18 2003
I asked the away question at 20:16:46. He obviously doesn't. COME ON YOU COBBLERS!!!

Ted at 22:21:06 Friday April 18 2003
Well tonight was a good night for us long suffering fans as we saw all the dead wood come to the surface.Great to hear Wilkinson calling for a clearout after the game.The Cardoza's have got to be really ruthless this summer and shake the club from top to bottom.I for one think it has all come to a head tonight and we are going to see major departures and a complete rebuilding of the squad.For the first time we have genuine backers and I truly believe we will have a very good club to follow come the start of next season.

Anon at 22:19:27 Friday April 18 2003
Deepcut, you need to ask him this away question first before he can answer it!!!!!!!!

Deepcut Cobbler at 22:12:40 Friday April 18 2003
Lets see.....COME ON YOU COBBLERS!!! And I still haven't seen the answer to the away question Mr Politician..

Anon at 22:12:14 Friday April 18 2003
dont worry marco the fat lady has finished singing, got a taxi home and is tucking into a mega bucket from KFC

DRD2 at 22:07:28 Friday April 18 2003
you answer all the points but with completely ridiculous claims! Lowest crowd in D2 haha. And it's YOU forking out over two grand a week for Gabbiadini! A journeyman if I ever saw one. I'd rather have Onandi any day.

marco at 22:05:24 Friday April 18 2003
let's just hurry up and get relegation out of the way now and get rid of these muppets now. Throw in a few of the kids for the last few games and start looking at some new faces. This lot are a disgrace.

Deepcut Cobbler at 21:59:47 Friday April 18 2003
Definitely a politician. Didn't answer the question. However, to answer your comments, our support is consistent. Not up to the ratio of the catchment area but there are other higher division teams within easy distance that are a more attractive proposition. But our base support remains the same. You base support hasn't yet been established through thick and thin. We have seen your support when you are doing well, which isn't good enough, what happens when you are not doing so well? The last tractor home goes before the final whistle, those who don't live five minutes away be on it! You may be able to set a record next season for the lowest crowd in Div 2. Second comment, (see I answer all of yours) your youth system is so good, why are you still forking out mega bucks in both transfer fees and wages for journeymen footballers? You are being taken for a ride. Still COME ON YOU COBBLERS!!!

DRD2 at 21:56:18 Friday April 18 2003
cc3 is funny

DRD2 at 21:54:05 Friday April 18 2003
hey mister stayaway fan, sing a song for me........

DRD2 at 21:48:09 Friday April 18 2003
Conviction? The proof is there on the pitch! All those decades haven't done much good for your support. Since our youth system is the best in the area, what makes you think you will do better than us?

Deepcut Cobbler at 21:42:50 Friday April 18 2003
That was said with a great deal of conviction, NOT. 15 April 2004, home game against Port Vale, you're already relegated, 30 mins to go, 1-4 down, you may be the only one left in the ground because you only have five minutes to walk home! The others have left on the tractor to Irthlingboro'. Think about it. Football clubs may be built in a day but true supporters take decades to evolve. I bet you won't be on here next April with a similar attitude. COME ON YOU COBBLERS!!!

Anon at 21:38:09 Friday April 18 2003
ef

me at 21:36:37 Friday April 18 2003
doh.

DRD2 at 21:32:38 Friday April 18 2003
DIAMONDS are more than good enough to stay up.

DRD2 at 21:17:09 Friday April 18 2003
58 min Asamoah on for Gabbiadini 70 min Stamp on for Youngs. Still can't score in a brothel.

Deepcut Cobbler at 21:17:02 Friday April 18 2003
Thats better young man. We are losing 0-3, we are up to our chests in third division, we know where we are. But the majority of us have been in a similar position many times before. Your problem is that next seasons relegation will be the first that you have experienced. How many of your fans will remain when you are losing game after game. Our average home crowd is more than yours now, we are bottom of the second and you are top(ish) of the third, what hope is there of retaining your fair weather supporters when the going gets tough? COME ON YOU COBBLERS!!!

DRD2 at 21:06:45 Friday April 18 2003
FYI I am not Nosey Parker. At least he is honest.

Nosey Parker at 21:01:46 Friday April 18 2003
I have aseason ticket and I could not even be asked to go.....What point is there we are shit I am glad I stayed home and got pissed with my mates!!

DRD2 at 21:00:33 Friday April 18 2003
I post on CC3 under another username. "TCMP" ;)

Deepcut Cobbler at 20:48:43 Friday April 18 2003
So I assume your answer is that you live only five minutes from Nenn Park and that you don't go to away games. The way you avoid the question, are you a politician? COME ON YOU COBBLERS!!!

DRD2 at 20:42:17 Friday April 18 2003
What about away games? You don't even go to home games! You should assume your comments and not backtrack to maintain your reputation in front of a fellow wobbler.

Deepcut Cobbler at 20:38:07 Friday April 18 2003
DRD2. A reminder. You appear to have ignored the away game comment. COME ON YOU COBBLERS!!! And Oldbrook, as you can see I didn't apologise.

Deepcut Cobbler at 20:34:34 Friday April 18 2003
Plonker! There would never be an apology from me. Attention to detail. The incorrect sign off gives you away. I would never pretend to be anyone else in an attempt to counter banter. Use your own wit and vocabulary. Any further postings of a similar nature will show you for what you are, a village with a limited intelligence that restricts your ability to contribute fully to good banter without resorting to underhand tactics. COME ON YOU COBBLERS!!! Through thick and thin, my blood is always claret.

DRD2 at 20:34:08 Friday April 18 2003
We are DIVISION 2!

oldbrook cobbler at 20:30:37 Friday April 18 2003
dont fucking apologise deepcut.........he shouldnt be on our fucking site.....fuck off dustbins shite.

oldbrook cobbler at 20:30:00 Friday April 18 2003
there not fit to wear the shirt

DRD2 at 20:28:53 Friday April 18 2003
OK on a serious note here's a link you may want to read: http://www.geocities.com/HotSprings/1911/

Deepcut Cobbler at 20:20:47 Friday April 18 2003
Ok I apologise. Good luck for next season. COME ON YOU COBBLERS!

DRD2 at 20:18:18 Friday April 18 2003
I DON'T POST DURING GAMES! CHECK YOUR WATCH MATE!

Deepcut Cobbler at 20:16:46 Friday April 18 2003
How do you post during games or do you do that by proxy? What about the away games? I know your fan who goes to the away games and it isn't you! COME ON YOU COBBLERS!!!

DRD2 at 20:16:41 Friday April 18 2003
WOBBLERS BRING ON HOPE FOR REID. FUNNY THAT. YOU'RE A BUNCH OF NO-HOPERS AFTER ALL! hahahahaahaha

DRD2 at 20:14:44 Friday April 18 2003
YOU KNOW YOURSELF HOW RIDICULOUS THAT COMMENT IS AND YET YOU STILL SAY IT! IT WILL COME BACK TO HAUNT YOU MY FRIEND! COME ON YOU DIAMONDS!

Deepcut Cobbler at 20:13:08 Friday April 18 2003
0-3. 23 mins. DRD2. This is what you will have to look forward to at the end of next season if you haven't been relegated by Christmas. Your rantings will come back to haunt you, be warned. COME ON YOU COBBLERS!!!

DRD2 at 20:12:14 Friday April 18 2003
3-0 YIPPEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE! GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN

DRD2 at 20:10:48 Friday April 18 2003
hahahahaahahahahha I go to all the home games you idiot! It's only a 5 minute walk home! DIAMONDS! WE ARE THE PRIDE OF NORTHANTS!

Deepcut Cobbler at 20:07:43 Friday April 18 2003
You don't appear to go to any game by the timing of your regular postings!! COME ON YOU COBBLERS!!!

DRD2 at 20:05:49 Friday April 18 2003
IT'S ALL GONE QUIET! ALL GONE QUIET OVER THERE! sssssssshhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh

DRD2 at 20:03:39 Friday April 18 2003
YOU DIDN'T EVEN BOTHER TO GO TO A HOME GAME TO SEE YOUR TEAM GET RELEGATED................

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Deepcut Cobbler at 20:02:25 Friday April 18 2003
0-2. 13 mins. Quote of the season from ntfctv? "It hasn't been a good start for the Cobblers this evening" COME ON YOU COBBLERS!!!

oldbrook cobbler at 20:01:47 Friday April 18 2003
oh dear

DRD2 at 20:01:44 Friday April 18 2003
0-2! YESSSSSSSSSSSSS!!!!!!!!!!! hahaaahahahaahahahahahaaha GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN GOING DOWN

DRD2 at 19:58:56 Friday April 18 2003
YESSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! COME ON YOU HATTERS!

Anon at 18:47:53 Friday April 18 2003
COME OOOOONNN !!!!!!

onemanteam at 18:33:19 Friday April 18 2003
well here goes again can we possibly clutch defeat from the hands of victory once again?

Bloke with a twitch at 17:42:39 Friday April 18 2003
Will you swallow your pride and apologise after we thump Stockport tonight?

Wilko's record so far!!!!!!!!! at 17:30:42 Friday April 18 2003
P9 W2 D1 L6 F6 A15 Pts 7.

OK? at 17:25:01 Friday April 18 2003
I refuse to get off of Wilko's back until he starts selecting the right team, adopts the appropriate tactics and gets some results, until then he, like all other managers of football clubs, will feel the pressure and hear the dissent from fans.

Sell? at 17:00:55 Friday April 18 2003
Ted, your right about the Cardoza's this is good news. Andrew Ellis and Ken Good were always the front man and the employee now the real purchaser has taken over. Bit worried about this Lib Dem selling off Sixfields though, surely the council will need to almost give it away (to the Cobblers) so that they can expand it rather than look for the highest bidder a developer or management company who just wants to make a fast buck. despite relegation I still think we are at the start of something positive and people should get off Wilko's back and start getting behind the project

Woderwick at 16:27:34 Friday April 18 2003
Nice one Centurion

Easter Cobbler at 16:25:52 Friday April 18 2003
I'm Brian and so is my wife.

Anon at 14:50:27 Friday April 18 2003
he was so aggressive he must be right,were all doomed, im off to top myself theres no hope you see. prat why didnt he go first

lyndes at 14:46:19 Friday April 18 2003
I was anon can't muster etc etc, sorry but I had to leave for a while, I am talking facts with regards to mangerial positions and roles, if there is anything else you would like to discuss please do so, however I am not be afraid to admit that I don't know everything about football, however what I do know, unlike yourself, is fact and not supposition. feel free to continue at your leisure. unfortunately I will be going out in the next hour so if you do not get back to within that time we'll talk tomorrow. I hope that this time next season you will have changed your tune, still fairweather supporters normally do when they are winning, thats easy. Remember "when the going gets tough the tough get going"

Anon at 14:38:41 Friday April 18 2003
Gulp! has he gone?

Can't muster up any enthusiasm to be positive about anything to do with this bloody football club at 14:34:47 Friday April 18 2003
Well some of us have things to do and people to see, shame you never came back at me anon I was looking forward to it!

Can't muster up any enthusiasm to be positive about anything to do with this bloody football club at 14:33:26 Friday April 18 2003
hmmmmmmm, just as I thought all bluster and no substance.

Can't muster up any enthusiasm to be positive about anything to do with this bloody football club at 14:32:45 Friday April 18 2003
I'm waiting . . .

Can't muster up any enthusiasm to be positive about anything to do with this bloody football club at 14:30:31 Friday April 18 2003
I'd pit my knowledge of football, tactics and understanding of the fabric of the professional game against yours anyday anon. You begin . . .

anon at 14:29:00 Friday April 18 2003
if you knew anything about football you would know that different roles require different skills, managers manage and number 2's coach, you have a good coach

Can't muster up any enthusiasm to be positive about anything to do with this bloody football club at 14:21:09 Friday April 18 2003
What a bunch of nonces!! If the number two was so important then why bother with a number one? Wilkinson is not wanted here, count up the postings and listen to fellow supporters, nobody is excited at the prospect of him at the helm. I want to be enthusiastic but I can't be, I almost want us to lose to hasten Wilkinson's inevitable departure, he will fail of that I have no doubt. I know of one director who has told me personally that he did not want Wilkinson and sees it as a disaster. I have never, ever felt so numb and disenchanted about the end of season run-in and I have no enthusiasm for next season at all. And if the Ali Gibb stories are true (there's nothing on the official site) then you can already see how LOW we are setting our sights!! Altruism will get us nowhere.

lyndes at 13:36:07 Friday April 18 2003
Well noted judge pickles, lets not forget Stevie Mc when he was at Man U, not so hot as a manager but an excellent number 2.

A Childs View at 13:05:11 Friday April 18 2003
Is this true re Ali Gibb signing again or just twaddle?

KTF Cobbler at 12:58:34 Friday April 18 2003
Anyone know of any venues in town playing Northern Soul/Motown tonight? I will need something to take my mind of relegation...

Judge Pickles at 12:47:02 Friday April 18 2003
Just to endorse the last few postings - MW please do change the record - if you knew anything about the typical coaching set up in a professional football side you would know that a properly used number 2 is pivitol in the success or otherwise of short term playing performance - take Luton Town - do you really think Joe Kinnear does all the work? (No it's Mick Harford), Gerry Francis at Bristol Rovers? (No it was Garry Thompson) etc etc etc. ALSO your comments about the current board are frankly insulting so please do change the record.

WSP at 10:05:33 Friday April 18 2003
MartinW has always been and will continue to be a fuckim twat and a ponce.He has haunted this board with his up his arse crap for too long. Go back in your hole turd burgler

Anon at 09:46:03 Friday April 18 2003
First time I have agreed with anything Ted has written!!! Was it truly him?

LH at 08:22:17 Friday April 18 2003
Ted , 18:20 . Couldnt agree with you more . I believe that the Cardoza family being involved with the Club is far more important to our long term success than sniping at Wilko managerial record. Also Martins comments about the Board being inept are frankly quite insulting to people who have put there hand in their pockets big time. Face facts without DC & his Old Man we wouldnt be having the debate about Manager's or new signings.

Pete Hendridge at 07:47:05 Friday April 18 2003
Bring back the fireman,so there

nsb at 07:18:41 Friday April 18 2003
one legend returns now all we need is big steve, lily savage, roy hunter, sean parrish, keith welch and of course LARRY!

Towny at 05:42:45 Friday April 18 2003
The real slim whatever,why dont you stop fucking going on about how poor wilko is,change your subject for fuck sake I bet youre a joy to work with constantly going on about Wilko whatevewr you think YOU AINT GONNA CHANGE IT ARE YOU. i personnally think signing another midget in Gibb is a shit backwards move but i wont be writing the same post every day.Another interesting fact:- the most repetitive boring poster on this comments site is.....................

TO JAMIE FORRESTER at 01:27:31 Friday April 18 2003
I WANT YOU TO KNOW THAT I MISS YOU I MISS YOU SO, I WANT TO YOU TO KNOW THAT I MISS YOU I MISS YOU SO, I WANT TO KNOW THAT I MISS YOU I MISS U SO, I WANT U TO KNOW THAT I MISS YOU I MISS YOU SO WOOOOOOOOOOOO.....OOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO YOU GONE AWAY

To the tune of Robin Hood.. at 00:21:44 Friday April 18 2003
Ali Gibb, Ali Gibb, Running down the wing. Ali Gibb, Ali Gibb.....umm... running back again...

therealslimmartinw(notwilko) at 00:06:54 Friday April 18 2003
Infact he was kinda sexy wasnt he.....

therealslimmartinw(notwilko) at 00:05:46 Friday April 18 2003
Ive also heard it on radio 5 10 minutes ago , im glad he had a lot of potential.

It True Its Damm True at 00:01:25 Friday April 18 2003
Ali Gibb has today signed a 3 yr contract at the club

therealslimmartinw(notwilko) at 23:30:12 Thursday April 17 2003
AMAZING FOOTBALL FACT NUMBER 523: Robbie Savage has NEVER been sent off in his footballing career. It's totally true,i promise you. Someone told me and i thought it could not be true. But it is. He might have caused a few sendings off, but he has never actually experienced an early shower himself. He HAS managed 60 yellow cards in over 250 matches, a booking in just over four matches. There's loveleeeeee!

therealslimmartinw(notwilko) at 23:17:40 Thursday April 17 2003
The recurring theme is that the gut feeling is that Hilly will be the driving force. My feeling is that this is more that optimistic feeling you have when you head to Sixfields and get carried away with the possibility of victory, before being smacked in the face with the reality of another defeat. Wilko is the boss, and yes we have to get behind the team, but surely to god we cannot ignore the incompetence of the people that decided he was the best man for the job. Sorry but he is clearly NOT. There is not debate about it, the themselves. He had his chance as a caretaker, and his record has become worse, not better. We have a numpty as manager, there is no getting away with it and when things go even slightly wrong he will be totally barracked, and that is no good for the club. Everyone has to have confidence in the guy at the top, if you don't and you just bear with it, it will only mean more pain in the long run. I want to see us back in the second next season. I did not want to be in the position where i can easily get to away games (Carlisle). I thought with Stonhill gone we would see the back of stupid decisions, I thought that i had seen the stupidest decisions ever when watching certain referees at Sixfields that were relegated from the Premiership for being total and utter crap, referees who just stun you into silence because you know by screaming it will make absolutely no difference. But this is our club. Our team. And if we want to have those glory days again, those Torquay moments, I fear that you just cannot put up and shut up.

broken leg syndrome at 22:49:29 Thursday April 17 2003
ive left sixfields for ever

Ted at 22:25:24 Thursday April 17 2003
Ralph...I think we will learn more after May 1st (local election day)Interesting to see part of the the Lib-dem manifesto is to sell off Sixfields if they get in.

Bloody Madness Of Not at 21:54:46 Thursday April 17 2003
PARSNIPS..................um...........no comment

Ralph at 20:12:47 Thursday April 17 2003
I read in today's Chron that the council have no more funding set aside for Sixfields after September. Does this signal that the way is clear the way for English Partnerships to take control of Sixfields and the surrounding area? As I understand it English Partnerships do not have a record of being big on landlording so perhaps as Ted suggests the ground will soon be sold.

DavCobbler at 19:29:00 Thursday April 17 2003
No bigger tosser in Daventry than me, not many on here that would comment other than on here mind. Point made.

Ted at 18:20:54 Thursday April 17 2003
Interesting to see David Cardoza as new chairman,and his dad on the board.This obviously means (as I suspected) that the way is clear for the running of Sixfields Stadium,and the purchase of surrounding land.Good luck to them is what I say,and I don't care how much money they make as long as the club benefits as well.

Pete Hendridge at 18:09:25 Thursday April 17 2003
Can't destroy Daventry as its full of fireman,so there.....

daventry tourist board at 16:05:51 Thursday April 17 2003
you cant do that. where would all the brummies go for their holidays?

Ray at 13:18:25 Thursday April 17 2003
I agree Daventry is full of tossers...........

My View at 13:17:23 Thursday April 17 2003
I think the reason we are doing bad this season is because we are close to the shithole that is Daventry if we killed 98% of the and bombed Davenrty to the ground thing would really start to change....trust me.......Kill daventry people now http://www.KillDavPeople.com

nsb at 12:44:24 Thursday April 17 2003
we need to sign some proper wingers rather than playing central midfielders or even strikers on the wings, when kevin wilson was here he used to do that the other way round as i recall...

west stand woman at 11:45:00 Thursday April 17 2003
IF WE GO DOWN THEN WE HAVE A FEW PLAYERS THAT WONT WANT TO STAY E.G. GILL HE IS A GOOD PLAYER AND DESERVS HIGHER THAN DIVISON 3 ALSO WE NEED TO GET RID OF TROLLOPE

Bazza at 11:25:13 Thursday April 17 2003
And I'd get rid of the regular sicknotes, Spedding, Hope, etc.

Bazza at 09:38:54 Thursday April 17 2003
Looks about right to me, Drilling. I think that apart from the first part of this season, Gabbs has ben a big disapointment. He looks very slow and can't last 90 and he won't get any better now. I think Lincoln is worth another season.

The Drilling Cobbler at 09:30:53 Thursday April 17 2003
Forget Marco NSB. Only players who can get us back and keep us up should be kept on/brought in. We need to build a young team, even if it means 2/3 years in division3. Goodbye to Frain, Gabbs, Marsh, and Burgess because they are all 30 something. An 'under25' policy should be enforced by the board for any new players. Remember, we still have Harper, Sammo, Rickers, Hargrieve, Trollope and Gill(the only oldey I would retain) who will all be in their late20's/30's. Enough experience for any team. Harsley, Asa, CC, Thompson and Youngs are all players who can improve into div1 players with good coaching and some luck. A big clearout is needed, it has been evident that the current squad are incapable of holding their own in divison2 now for 2 and 1/2 years and under 4/5 different managers. The signing of a good target man is imperative, as is the building of a new central defence. Lincoln may well be worth another year as well. Next seasons key player? I would go with Trollope because he has the undoubted ability to take the 3rd division by storm. Another year of sub standard performances and he will go down as the biggest dissapointment(single player) in the time I have followed the team. Lets all hope for some inspirational signings to enable us to once again look forward to the 'next match'.

Minging mong at 07:41:28 Thursday April 17 2003
Bloke with a twitch at 23:43:04 Wednesday April 16 2003.Nice one

nsb at 07:37:30 Thursday April 17 2003
well wilko is obviously not the first choice of many (particularly non on this board) but hopefully, and i am typing with all my fingers crossed here, the arrival of hill as our first proper number two in years will enable him to improve that rather horrible record.... now that we have no pfa embargo and we can bring in who we like over the summer we should be able to put together a decent team for next season, as long as marco stays that is....

What is a Direone Muppet (supporter) at 07:15:54 Thursday April 17 2003
.................?

Pihuan at 06:51:58 Thursday April 17 2003
Bet we pulverize Stockport now that the pressure is off. I'm dubious about Wilko too, sure he got the job initially simply because he was already on the payroll. However it's my feeling that Hill will be the driving force. If Gills have had to clear out their coaching and admin staff, I imagine that they will do the same with their playing staff so it wont be a huge surprise if some Hill proteges end up here. How many of our out of contract players will be made offers? Not many should.The turmoil within the club, sheer bad luck, bad refereeing have all played their part in this seaaon's debacle, but a number of players have let us down badly.

What is a Cobblers SUPPORTER? at 06:27:17 Thursday April 17 2003
Its US!, we only like Division 4, Division 3 South, 3rd Division and 2nd Division, we like lots of managers, we like no hope players, we like 3 sided grounds, and then 2 sided grounds, we like the least seats in the league, we like losing at home to the Orient, we love Paul Wilkinson, Christian Lee.., we love Relegation, we miss Halifax away, we would love Peterborough to be part somehow of Northamptonshire and lord it over them, we love our only fanzine, we love Big Fat Seamus, we love Sixfields, we love the tannoy system, we love Car paring arrangements, ticketing, catering, our MP, Rolys Programmes, we loved Torquay away last game of the season, duckboards are cool and throwing coins into a blanket at halftime, we love those old Hotel End Classics, he was saying Goodbye to his horse, we love bird imitation cries from the Hotel and now west stand - but most of all whatever life throws up WE LOVE YOU COBBLERS -WE LOVE THE CRAP, THE HASSLES, THE BAD LUCK...........and FRANK LARGE, IAN ATKINS, BRYAN HARVEY, JOE KEIRNAN, BARRY LINES, FRANK RANKMORE, RICHARD HILL, TREVOR MORLEY, DAVE THE BOOKMAKER!!, ADIE MANN, FRANKIE BELFON, GABBIIIIIIII, RON FLOWERS, KEITH EAST, KIM BOOK, JOHN FAIRBROTHER, JIM HALL, GRAHAM FELTON ON THE WING, JOHN BUCHANAN, DAVE GILBERT...... - THEY ARE THE TRUE COBBLERS GODS!!!

Bloke with a twitch at 23:43:04 Wednesday April 16 2003
I was there saturday, I felt it as bad as any defeat, but I saw a brighter side afterwards. We were relegated after Broads was sacked. The fact we fought back from 1-0 down to take the lead made me believe there is some fight left. The goals we let in were pathetic, with the defenders being drawn to the ball instead of holding their positions. I do not have blind faith in Wilko, far from it. What I am saying is Wilko is here to stay, he has the job, he wont resign straight away. Get used to it and move on. If you can handle that, then get behind the team, they need supporting more than ever. If you cant handle it, bite your tongue and get behind the team, whichever way you chose, get behind the team.

CP at 23:41:05 Wednesday April 16 2003
I'm also not overly impressed with having Wilkinson as manager, irrespective of his record. At the last trust meeting I went away thinking that he'd already got the job from the things he and Ken Good said at the meeting, it came across to me that he had already started planning which players to keep and which to get rid of with his comments about Marco and Dudfield etc. Ken Good kept harping on about Martins experience but it seemed to be that Wilkinson is a bit of a yes man, and not only to the directors, he agreed with virtually every comment put to him by the audience. That said the decision has been made and I'll give the new management team a chance to build a squad and continue to support the team. As far as Dudfield goes, friends of mine who support Leicester seemed to think he wasnt up to Div1 or Prem standard (very true) but thought he might be able to cut it lower down the leagues. I havent really seen enough of him to form an opinion, he played ok against Notts County and was then played out of posistion against Wigan. He's also obviously not match fit and low on confidence so I'll reserve judgement until next pre- season. Our forward line currently comprises of Stamp - ok in the conference but not a goal scorer, Dudfield not achieved anything anywhere and unproven, Youngs - plenty of skill but also not a natural goalscorer? and Asamoah who can be outstanding and infuriating at the same time and seems to get bossed about by carthorse defenders. Altogether not enough to set the third division alight. Hopefully they'll return from Trinidad with Nigel Pierre and the next Dwight Yorke.

therealslimmartinw at 23:05:36 Wednesday April 16 2003
That might explain why he is so interested in Dudfield. It makes sense, he used to hang out there. Does it make footballing sense. Word has it that Dudfield is being released by Hull in attempt to reduce the wage bill and of course as he is with us we are getting first sniff.

therealslimmartinw(notwilko) at 23:00:57 Wednesday April 16 2003
IT GETS BETTER: Not only do we have a manager with one of the worst records in Christendom but we also have the former manager of Hull's Indoor Cricket Centre. For it is he, Mr Wilkinson is that very man. I would say that is probably where he belongs, safe from the rigours of another defeat in the English football league. I would laugh if it clearly is not funny at all. Come back at least one of the Kevs, at least you have better management records.

Captain Commercial Sensibility at 22:57:11 Wednesday April 16 2003
Put some more on then!!!!!

TRAVEL at 22:55:49 Wednesday April 16 2003
ALL COACHES FULL FOR TRANMERE

Bloke is a twat at 22:33:50 Wednesday April 16 2003
If Wilkinson does sign Dudfield Towny with it goes any hope or ambition this club has to get out of Division 3 at the first attempt. Bloke with a twitch wants to get real, I've followed the Cobblers through thin and thinner over 35 years and have always looked forward to each season whatever the weather but the appointment of Wilkinson has just left me numb, nay anaesthetized, uninspired and totally flat. This is my club and your club and I am unhappy with the way it is currently being run and I am buggered if BWAT or anyone else is going to tell me what life is like following the Cobblers. Where you there Saturday BWAT? If you were, which I doubt, you'd have felt what I felt.

therealslimmartinw(notwilko) at 22:24:26 Wednesday April 16 2003
Hooray we have the second worst manager in history. Doesnt it make you proud!! Rhetorical. Drilling, there is no excuse for that record when it is worse than everyone bar the Leyton Orient guy who has never worked since. Not surprisingly. Nsb, I don't put up the goals anymore because Free-online closed the site down because i had not logged in for six months - i kid you not. Anyway I might resurrect it at some stage if i get time and I am not conflicting with ntfc.co.uk.

ajp at 21:19:41 Wednesday April 16 2003
well can the season get any worse, boro 2-0 up against cardiff, surely not!! Looks like there staying up!!

Towny at 21:00:38 Wednesday April 16 2003
boro 1 cardiff 0 ht....... a freind of mine was at the Hilton on saturday night,Wilko was there with Dudfield and some suited blokes,could this mean that some deal is being done for Duds... or perhaps,wilko and Duds just stay in the most expensive hotel in town!

TWIT WITH A BLOKE at 19:17:44 Wednesday April 16 2003
. . . and also a lot of peolpe with nothing to say . . . where has everyone gone?

Anon at 17:07:30 Wednesday April 16 2003
.

TWIT WITH A BLOKE at 16:55:49 Wednesday April 16 2003
There seem to be an awful lot of people who agree with MartinW though. What ever happened to majority rule?

I suppose you thought that about the Lions led by Donkeys! at 15:11:51 Wednesday April 16 2003
FAO of Bloke with a Twitch, it's okay for you to tell MW to take his 'negativity and shove it up his ar*e. The same could be said to you so take your blind faith and do likewise. Lemming!

FAO Bloke with a twitch at 13:35:17 Wednesday April 16 2003
My hero. Some prats have nothing to do but look up boring stats - and then post them!

What about..... at 13:14:45 Wednesday April 16 2003
The Stoke manager from 1985ish when they were relegated from div 1 with about 17 points???

Nosey Parker at 12:50:50 Wednesday April 16 2003
This site is going down quicker then a 2 Dollar whore.....tut tut

John Sitton at 12:23:09 Wednesday April 16 2003
OK, you've got me, I admit it, I have a worse managerial record than Martin Wilkinson. During the 1994-95 season I was in charge of the mighty Orient for 47 games. We won seven, drew nine and lost 31. And I haven't worked since. But my fellow joint-manager at the time, Chris Turner, has done quite well for himself...

The Drilling Cobbler at 10:34:11 Wednesday April 16 2003
What about John (cant think of his surname) who managed Leyton Orient about 10years ago(there was a documentary on him). Or the guy who took Wolves all the way down to the 4th in the early/mid 80's? Failing those, the manager of San Marino/Malta//Fareo Islands etc!!!!! Have to agree though with those who point out the situation of the clubs that he has been in charge of. I am not particularly happy with MW being made boss, I can already see him being moved 'upstairs' by christmas if we are anything other than top8 next season. The biggest problem in my view is that the decision has not created any renewed optimism. We needed a new start and a 'proven' lower league manager would have lifted the fan base if nothing else. Season ticket sales are likely to be based on who is signed over the coming weeks, and I would guess that the deadline for discounts will be extended until early July when people will have a better idea who will be lining up for us next season. I've missed about 5 home games in the last 15years but I will not be going on Friday - planning my easter weekend around Cobblers fixtures is now pointless because of its now all over. The next 4 games are nothing short of training exercises when hopefully the management team will have the foresight to play only those who are either under contract or are likely to be offered a contract for next season. That coupled with the predictable crap likely to be served up! The remainder of this season and the Jolly to Trinidad should be treated as preseason work for next season - lets make sure that the team is more than ready to assault a serious challenge next season and restore NTFC to its rightful status as number1 team in the county.

Dougal at 09:11:52 Wednesday April 16 2003
Zebedee, the Stockport game is on friday night, not saturday.

nsb at 07:28:43 Wednesday April 16 2003
time for martinW the stat machine..... btw martin do you still put the cobblers goals up on your website?

nsb at 07:27:52 Wednesday April 16 2003
morning all.... time to start slagging each other off again....

zebedee at 00:05:27 Wednesday April 16 2003
time for bed... a new dawn awaits... and a brave new world... and carlton palmer's Stockport on saturday...sound like from what the reaslimmartinw is saying that it should be the battle to find out who is the worst manager in the league...except if we are to beleive him there is only one winner... where did you get these facts from anywhere mr notwilko.

Anon at 23:52:42 Tuesday April 15 2003
I had a go at this as well only the thing with most managers is you remember the downs and forget they actually had ups too. I would have said it was Jim Jefferies during his time with Bradford but no. Carlton Palmer too but clearly not. Also convinced Frank Clark was the man having made a pigs ear of Manchester City and Forest but he managed 20 wins in 60 games for city. Oh shit, its that bad.

kirkwearsclaretshirts at 23:39:51 Tuesday April 15 2003
Dammit, i thought thought i had found a manager with worse record than MW with Bryan Robson, but i see he managed to win 127 out of 314. There must be a bigger turd somewhere.

Tag at 23:34:03 Tuesday April 15 2003
Oh God, martinw you've done it again! Remember you when you were plotting the demise of the great Atkins. Disagreed with you fundamentally then, he was great for the club and should not be slagged off the way you slag him off. I accept thought that he became a bit of a twat at the latter stages but he took us to wembley twice and i wont forget that. I do agree with your sentiments regarding Martin Wilkinson though. Managers come and managers go but winning is everything and he clearly doesn't know how to.

Hodgey at 23:25:31 Tuesday April 15 2003
have to differ. i was rather mystified over wilkinsons arrival at the head of the management team rather than a supporting player. from where i sit in the west stand, he is not very inspirational, makes questionable decisions and his record does not surprise me. i am hoping hilly will turn in around but accept that his influence will not translate to making game decisions. i for one would have loved to see hilly in charge or even take a gamble on gabby, rather than stick with someone who has proven he cannot win games. anyway i agree mostly with martinw says and i wish people on here would allow people their point of view without resorting to name calling.

RDFC. at 23:08:21 Tuesday April 15 2003
I HATE DIAMONDS THEY ARE WANKERS.

I'boro Cobbler at 22:51:55 Tuesday April 15 2003
Well said BWAT! Old people, poofs and gurls support diamonds and they will all evaporate when the going gets tough next season...

Bloke with a twitch at 22:42:09 Tuesday April 15 2003
therealslimmartinw(not wilko)- You are becoming a real pain. Wilkinson is the Cobblers manager, get used to it. When you can accept it, then get behind the Club. Until then take your negativity and shove it up your arse. Stick to playing championship manager, football really is that easy, supporting the Cobblers is a challenge and you are not man enough for it.

therealslimmartinw(not wilko) at 22:17:58 Tuesday April 15 2003
Sorry I am not a Rushden fan, been on this message board on and off for three or four years I think it is. Although, Max Griggs money would go down well. Just to set the record straight, checked out the records of managers of the worst three teams in the Football League, Gary Peters of Exeter, Ray Graydon of Bristol Rovers and Kevin Ratcliffe of Shrewsbury and previously Chester and they all eclipse Wilko's record. And if it is the Carlisle factor, well Roddy Collins has had 99 games in charge in two spells with the Northumbrian giants and he has at least managed about 1 win in 3 - still better than Wilko's 1 in 4. This does raise serious questions about the competence of those who make these decisions in the wake of the Terry Fenwick debacle.

Anon at 22:06:41 Tuesday April 15 2003
Where were the direones just after they lost against cheltenham in last years play offs? cuz they wern't at the game and they wernt on here?

DRD2 at 21:38:47 Tuesday April 15 2003
brainless? it's "always" by the way. Must try harder, follower of doom.

Redscouse at 21:32:50 Tuesday April 15 2003
So I see the gloryhuntingsheepshagginggotnohistorydireones are about tonight! It realy gets tiresome slagging them of but Hey! the brainless are allways easy game Yawn!!

DRD2 at 21:19:27 Tuesday April 15 2003
the realslimmartinw is right. But don't worry, Mr Ellis knows what he is doing. He is a Diamonds fan at heart.

therealslimmartinw(not wilko) at 21:15:48 Tuesday April 15 2003
LH, of course managers are looking for jobs because they were sacked somewhere else, its just that none have anywhere near as bad a record as Mr Wilkinson. And surely anyone who wants to see the best for the club, wants the highest possible calibre man at the helm. Not the WORST. We got rid of Terry Fenwick, but even he has a better record than Wilkinson winning 43 games in his 131 match career. A win every 3.2 games. Wilko is one in four. The fact is that there are a whole host of sacked managers, including those Cobblers boards have given the boot who have better records. THAT'S NOT SAYING THEY SHOULD HAVE THE JOB. There is a basic principal about recruitment, you appoint the best possible person for the job. Are we really saying Wilko is the best possible person for that job. The stark facts are that he is not. Surely we should be looking forwards, not backwards. And we are going backwards.

Anon at 20:28:49 Tuesday April 15 2003
threalslimmartin- do you go by the name of sid the pig on the offal shite? he's a prick as well. PHIL NEALE IN!!!!!

Redscouse at 19:55:58 Tuesday April 15 2003
Re:The centre forward slagger,I know who he is and yes you are right he does it every game I know the people around him and will get his name and put it on here at the weekend!!

DRD2 at 19:06:29 Tuesday April 15 2003
Poor third division managers are suited to a poor third division team.

LH at 17:49:12 Tuesday April 15 2003
What a load of B******S , if Managers are given jobs on past records how come they keep getting employed again ? Most Managers are out of work because they have a poor run of results so according to your theory only Mangagers with a 50% win ratio should ever get a job. We need to look to next year year so its the present & future that matters not the past . Think Peter Reid took the Leeds job because we turned him down do you ? Get real & post something sensible !

therealslimmartinw(notwilko) at 17:24:14 Tuesday April 15 2003
SORRY EVEN CARLTON PALMER'S BETTER: Ray, the figures were NOT just for his time at Carlisle, they are his career managerial stats, that also take in his spell at Peterborough and also with us. Also remember why it was that Carlisle ended up so poo, how Peterborough were so trash, and how we are so crap. Broads, Wilson and god help us Barnwell and Chard all have a better record than him managerially in all clubs and just taking into account their time with the Cobblers. The point is, that with a win ratio like he has, how on earth was he allowed a sniff at the job. It's absurd. I thought it might be money, but it cant be. Because there are loads of jobless managers out there, even taking out the ones with high wage demands, who have a better record than he has. I cannot find any that have a worse record, to be frank and are still managing. Carlton Palmer? And i am still waiting to hear of a manager with a worse record. But we really are scraping the bottom of the barrel and out through into the ground underneath, if we are trying to find managers who have a worse record than him. CARLTON PALMER? Even he has a better record having only managed one club and getting a win ration of just less than one in four rather than Wilko's one in four. With the illfated Stockport Palmer - a dead ringer for Pob that awful spitting puppet that launched Channel Four - managed one fewer wins in nine fewer games. If you want gash football, employ a gash manager. We've not just got one...we have THE WORST.

M at 15:32:05 Tuesday April 15 2003
Just a bit of light entertainment to relieve the stress of relegation. After watching last nights TV 'The story of Danielle Cable' I laughed when I discovered that Kenneth Noye was appealing against his sentence of Murder, not funny I hear you say? It is when his solicitor is non other than Mr Giovanno De Steffano. Mmmmmmm

Carlton Palmer at 14:30:45 Tuesday April 15 2003
I'm pleased to announce that since becoming manager at Stockport my record in league games is P 72, W 18, D 13, L 41 - which puts me ahead of Martin Wilkinson I reckon. Three wins and four defeats in cup games too.

Judge Pickles at 14:19:16 Tuesday April 15 2003
Yes we are concerned about MW record - HOWEVER you have to put it in context with the teams he was managing & the overall state of the clubs - somehow I think even Fergie would have struggled in those situations. Yes some of the tactical decisions are a worry - but a proven number 2 does work (Kev & kev good example) We should have faith in the board because I do think there is a longer term plan. Oh and final comment to the middle aged bald headed prat in the the comfy upper centre of the West Stand whose only comments for the last 4 years has been to constantly slag off any 6ft plus forwards Howard, Parkin, Dufield & Stamp with unintelligent borish insults - just go away! (anyone know his name because I think he should be publicly named and shamed)

George - Bucks No1 Cobbler at 12:17:01 Tuesday April 15 2003
Oh well Lavin has been released. Shame I thought his contribution over this season and certainly the last 3/4 of last season were excellent. Meant we could bring in 'Mr Reliable' Gill

nsb at 11:25:57 Tuesday April 15 2003
ray the philosopher..... socrates would have struggled to better that one......

Macc Cobblers at 10:15:08 Tuesday April 15 2003
Interesting listening to Brian Clough on the radio last night. Basiaclly reinforced the importance of the "spine" of the team - goalkeeper, two centre halves, strong midfielder and goalscoring centre forward. Sounds simple really !!

The Drilling Cobbler at 09:16:46 Tuesday April 15 2003
Worse record than Martin Wilkinson. Dont quote me but I would have thought Carltons record at Stockport(his carreer thus far) probably challenges it! The return of Gibb would be entertaining in the sence that he always made it to the corner flag but never crossed the ball! Hes also small so he would fit in perfectly amongst the rest of our midgets. We need height and power for next season - then perhaps the likes of Asa, Youngs and Harsley can concentrate on running at the oppostion. At least one new centreback(particularly if Reid leaves which surely he will) is a must. The biggest problem with our team at the moment is the spine (Sammo/past his best, Trollope(enough said) and Marco/too Old or Stamp/not good enough or at best short of confidence. We need to toughen up in all areas to allow the 'footballers' to play. One positive is that 'tough basic players' come cheaply whilst 'footballers' come at a price. I think that we are blessed with the latter so the recruitment of a few ball winning donkeys shouldnt pose to much of a problem, at least financially. My season ticket application form remains unfilled in - after 16years blind loyalty I want reasurrance that the product on offer next year is likely to be more attractive than the one we have witnessed for the last 2 and a half. Its not all about winning - its about entertainment and passion. When we propped up the old 4th effort was never questioned, the fact was we simply were not good enough. I am not convinced that the current collection of 'big time Charlies' are justifying their 100k plus salaries.

Ray at 08:50:52 Tuesday April 15 2003
OK - lets put things in perspectic with regard to Martin Wilkinsons record at Carlise. I agree with the figures quoted. However this is bloody Carlisle we are talking about. It is interesting to note that the person who took over from him was none other than Ian Atkins who was in charge for exactly the same number of games (52) and his record is W13 L23 D16. You can't make a silk purse out of a Northumbrian pig.

M at 08:13:14 Tuesday April 15 2003
Redscouse, we had other things to do so unfortunately ;o) missed the game. Went up to Scotland for the weekend and visited the home of Paul Reid. Great weekend and plenty of cheap beer, see you Friday night!

nsb at 07:56:30 Tuesday April 15 2003
ali gibb back at the cobblers?? i remember he had the talent but nobody ever told him poor boy.... whilst were at it lets bring back larry and put him up front with marco (combined age of 70!!!)

At least your giving him .............. at 07:06:35 Tuesday April 15 2003
A fair chance

therealslimmartinw(notwilko) at 01:05:21 Tuesday April 15 2003
CORRECTION: The Wilko stats should read 88 games, 22 wins with 42 lost and 24 drawn.

therealslimmartinw (not wilko) at 00:59:16 Tuesday April 15 2003
WILKO - CANDIDATE FOR THE WORST MANAGEMENT RECORD IN THE LEAGUE AND IN COBBLERS HISTORY: Okay the Championship Manager thing was a bit of flippant nonsense. The facts speak for themselves. I am finding it hard to find a manager who has a worse record than he has with a win ration of one in four. Broadhurst, Kevin Wilson bloody hell even Glenn Roeder has a better record. Wilko has managed 22 wins in 88 games as manager of Northampton, Carlisle and Peterborough with 111 lost and 78 drawn. Even Broads managed a one in three win ratio with 26 wins in 77 games with 37 losses and 14 draws. Kevin Wilson, remember him, he managed a victory in every two and a half games with 42 wins in 102 games with 41 losses and 19 draws. F.. me even Glenn Roeder, who my Watford mate says is the worst manager in the world (granted a bit of vitriolic bias there) managed a win in just under three-and-a-half games with 81 victories in 270 games in charge of West Ham, Watford and Gillingham. God forbid that he could have a worse record than the dreaded John Barnwell, but blow me if he does. Even during those dark days with Northampton in 1993 and 1994 he was managing one win in three. Indeed it he only did slightly better for the whole of his career of 318 games where he notched up 111 wins. Still miles better than Wilko. Phil Chard, must have a worse record. MUST DO. I mean all that lucky to be in the league stuff, must mean he has a worse record. Eh, not necessarily. There is not much between them although Chard edges it on the wins ratio again. Just under one win in four with 14 wins in 54 games in charge of the Cobblers. That's not really a recommendation, though, is it. I accept we have to support the new team, but I am sorry, how on earth did Wilko manage to get the job with these credentials. If Wilko is reckoned to be THE MAN the Broads is the Second Coming. That's NEITHER serious NOR a recommendation. Can someone tell me who has a worse record.. there's a challenge. Because for the moment Mr Wilkinson is going to have to learn a new habit if he is to turn things around at Sixfields... winning.

Anon at 00:50:08 Tuesday April 15 2003
Sod it,lets go all the way and find out if john Buchanan is available still.

redscouse at 00:17:54 Tuesday April 15 2003
I think it will be a good singing if we get it.....if although ali did say on there website a few months ago he would one day like to return to the cobblers

redscouse at 00:16:25 Tuesday April 15 2003
Well i just heard it aswell so i think it is correct.

Is this correct at 00:14:59 Tuesday April 15 2003
Ive just heard on sky sports news that northampton are trying to bring ali gibb on a free transfer at the end of the season ?

DR4E at 23:20:41 Monday April 14 2003
Shit

DR4E at 23:20:21 Monday April 14 2003
Bet you can't

Bet I can at 23:19:52 Monday April 14 2003
I bet i can get DR4E to reply to one of the posts by tomorrow morning

lyndes at 23:17:02 Monday April 14 2003
Redscouse, a voice of reason, thank you!!! I hope the masses take heed

southbedscob at 23:11:58 Monday April 14 2003
its better to challange for honours in the 3rd than try to survive in the 2nd but only for 1 season, retain the best of last seasons shower add a couple of tried and tested big uns remember its all muscle and pump it up front in the third, play the kids in the last 4 matches, asa cc lincoln morrison and give a few league debuts, it cant get any worse!

Anon at 22:52:52 Monday April 14 2003
I work at Abington Park - and they haven't told me.

one Richard Hill at 22:32:39 Monday April 14 2003
bring on new season wilko and hill will lead us to the championship. The only way is up (well it is when you are this bad) c'mon lads lets have div 3 Up the Cobblers!

Minging mong at 20:29:48 Monday April 14 2003
Anon at 09:09:00 Monday April 14 2003 Nice one

redscouse at 20:11:35 Monday April 14 2003
Oh! by the way Jules Didn't see you at Vale Park Saturday??Part-Timer

Redscouse at 20:09:58 Monday April 14 2003
I know Sat. probably put us down ,but we have to look on the bright side...I have freinds in Gillingham and they do not have a bad word for Richard Hill....they say he has done a brilliant job with limited resources and are totaly pissed off that Scally let him go!I only hope that they give Wilko money to do what he does best and find some decent players to help us get back up!!We will have our season in the basement and then get back at those Sheepshagging,Farm-hands over at Nuts Park!!Sorry had to have a go........they deserve it!!

BP at 17:12:01 Monday April 14 2003
How many games have yoos lot won since my mate Kevan got the boot for non-performing.. As Dionne Warwick sings.."Do you know the way to Shrewsbury"

Anon at 17:05:39 Monday April 14 2003
if its top secret why did they tell you?

Anon at 16:50:31 Monday April 14 2003
We're s**t and we know we are!

news flash at 12:55:09 Monday April 14 2003
Saddam H has been in the USA for the past week, this is absolutely TOP SECRET and true, who am I, work at Hanslope Park....

Steady!!!! at 12:54:08 Monday April 14 2003
How many managers have we had this season, might it have been a bit different if we had had a little more consistency, we are not a BAD team, we just lost confidence, so lets stick to much of what we have, its as always goal scoring that we need, Richard hill, didnt he know a bit about that, especially in the Dire Division, Diamonds well done, but make the most of it, WE will be around longer and we will PASS you soon!!!

Anon at 12:32:03 Monday April 14 2003
Bringing on subs adds 30 seconds onto the watch. Cheer up though. Talbots out in the summer to be replaced with Phil Neale!!!!!!!!! and he did a great job at Cardiff didnt he??!!!

Dyl at 10:38:40 Monday April 14 2003
Have onloy just plucked up the courage to come online since Saturday. I cam away from Vale Park feeling more down than after any game since I was thick enough to go to the Canvey Island match. At 2-1 up going into injury time why the f**k didn't Wilko eat some time up by putting Hope on? That might also have given us enough in defence to hold onto the win. We can be relegated on Saturday. Bring on the Yeovil!

Macc Cobblers at 10:15:00 Monday April 14 2003
Come on - get behind Wilkinson and Hill and give them a chance ! We have a crucial couple of months assembling a new squad for next year, and it is imperative that we all pull together.

Balanced Judgement at 09:29:33 Monday April 14 2003
Looks as if the best some of you can do is judge Wilko and Hill from Championship manager. Don't think any of you went to vale on saturday. The improvement came after half time, after Hill saw the team in action for the first time and had a chance to have his say. Do you really think we could attract a name manager with our financial reputation? Richard Hill has a fine reputation as an assistant, he can get on with running the team without the hassle of the manager tag. I am happy to give the new team a chance and shall be renewing my season ticket.

Anon at 09:09:00 Monday April 14 2003
martin wilkinson the man who tried to bring delroy facey in on loan before deadline day, the man who offered to resign when the tribunal fee was set for stamp, the man who managed to persuade rangers to loan paul reid out and who has set up a deal for more players for next year, the man who lamped the swindon manager, the man who will clear out our underperforming players, the man who showed andy turnip the door, the man who is our mananger next season come what may, the man we should support.

valley girl at 09:02:03 Monday April 14 2003
like we scored two goals....im sure...no way...........then they scored three..........im a val!

HodgeyHodgeyHodgey at 02:04:10 Monday April 14 2003
What can i say, first we buy trollope, then we consider buying a dud(field) what next? Oh we have a failed manager in charge. And we wonder why we are heading downwards Bring back Ian Atkins!

therealslimmartinw (notwilko) at 02:00:34 Monday April 14 2003
And this is my United States of Whatever. AND THIS IS MY UNITED STATES OF WHATEVER. Do you think Martin Wilkinson is Paul Wilkinson's dad? Do you think we still owe Paul Wilkinson, and Martin Wilkinson is some 'trade off' payment by the club. Do you think Martin Wilkinson and Howard Wilkinson are brothers? And they are all shite. Give Wilkinson the sword. Whatever.

Ray at 01:46:33 Monday April 14 2003
Hi guys i cant sleep ive been getting a major hardon over richard hill what you all up to

Mr Wilkinsons United States of Cobblers at 01:44:31 Monday April 14 2003
Whatever

Well at 01:43:46 Monday April 14 2003
Maybe if thats ur view u should quit Mr wilko

Mr Wilkinson's United States Of Cobblers at 01:42:24 Monday April 14 2003
So im at Port Vale Game and we like go 1-0 down, and im like whatever..................... And then Richard Hill says to me "I want your job", and im like whatever............. Cuz this is my United states of Cobblers............................Cuz this is my united states of Cobllers............................And then we do a miricale and score 2 goals late on, and im like whatever..........................................And then im like lets not completely defend the last few minutes lets let these dirty scummy vale tossers win , and im whatever.........................................And guess what they score 2 and we lose and im like.................Whatever

Paul Trollope at 01:33:45 Monday April 14 2003
Im shit im no artist but i may take it up and quit footy.Thanks for the idea

Sack Wilko Now at 01:31:58 Monday April 14 2003
We Need Gabbs as MANAGER sack the manager now

therealslimmartinw (notwilko) at 01:30:58 Monday April 14 2003
EVEN HOTTER NEWS: Trollope is dubbed a footballing painter and decorator. According to the South Wales Post's footballing analyst, France have several players who could be fairly described as artists, among them Zinedine Zidane, Robert Pires and Thierry Henry. By contrast, Wales's squad contains a scattering of individuals who are footballing painters and decorators. Against Azerbaijan, the Wales manager Mark Hughes brought on a player from Northampton Town and one who has been on loan at Walsall. "Doubtless Paul Trollope, from the Cobblers, and Carl Robinson, who has been at Walsall, are decent enough performers, but they really need to be playing at a higher level if they are to flourish in international football," they said.

therealslimmartinw (notwilko) at 00:35:10 Monday April 14 2003
HOT NEWS. Celtic manager Martin O'Neill has been accused of talking cobblers as the furore over the scheduling of the final Old Firm fixture of the season reached fever pitch. Lex Gold, chairman of the Bank of Scotland Premierleague,made the observation after Mr O'Neill complained at having to face Rangers at Ibrox in the first post-split fixture on 27 April, just three days after the second leg of their UEFA Cup semi-final against Boavista in Portugal. The former Wycombe boss claimed Rangers would not have been asked to face such an itinerary if the roles of the clubs were reversed. "It's cobblers, absolute cobblers," said Gold when O�Neill�s comments were put to him." Nice to see the old club get mentioned at the very top of the Scottish game.

therealslimmartinw (not wilko) at 00:29:12 Monday April 14 2003
Eh... get a sense of humour

CHAMPIONSHIP MANAGER: Name - Martin Wilkinson, Position - manager, team - Carlisle, reputation - very poor at 00:27:21 Monday April 14 2003
Your using a computer game to spread your anti-Wilko propaganda? My God.......well going by that then -- Stamp is a good player. Get real

therealslimmartinw(not wilko) at 23:24:17 Sunday April 13 2003
I would give A Child's View a fair chance, he at least has an unblemished if untried and tested record.

A fair chance at 23:09:32 Sunday April 13 2003
At least your giving him ..............

therealslim martinw(notwilko) at 23:01:34 Sunday April 13 2003
THE WILKINSON CV: Player: brief and uninspiring spell playing for Barnsley. Management career history 88 games, 22 won, 42 defeats, 24 draws. Peterborough United (manager from 29-6-82 to 1-02-83) 26 games, 9 won, 8 lost, 9 drawn; Carlisle (manager 25-6-1999 to 10-5-2000) 52 games, 11 wins, 28 defeats and 13 draws. Northampton (from 24-2-2003) 10 games, 2 wins, 6 defeats and 2 draws. Referees comments: Jeff Thorpe, former Carlisle player last heard of in Australia: "Possibly the weakest manager i played under was Martin Wilkinson. He was a good man and was thrown into a difficult situation and i admire him for giving everything to help the club, but he failed to get the respect of a lot of the players and some players took full advantage of the situation which didn't help the club's predicament." Stalwart fan: The fans never really took to him because they could never really relate to him. He did not take criticism well, often engaging in arguments with fans rather than walking away. On the field, performances were terrible. United never rose higher than 3rd from bottom since the third month of the season and were everyones tip for the drop to the Vauxhall Conference. Carlisle had to travel to Brighton on the last day of the season knowing that anything less than victory, if results went against us, was relegation. The performance was woeful, and, in all honesty typified Wilkinson's team. Lacking in passion and tactical awareness, they lost, and were saved from relegation thanks to the failure of Chester City to win their game. Within 48 hours it became clear that Wilkinson had been released and that United were yet again in the hunt for a manager. It's fair to say he is not missed by too many United fans." Glass Pyramid, Carlisle United fanzine (2001): "The sixth question in the survey asked: "Ian Atkins - stay or go?" The overwhelming reply here was "stay". WRONG. Still, it could have been Martin Wilkinson." Another Carlisle fan: "Frankly Carlisle's performance at Boothferry Park was about as bad as it gets- real Martin Wilkinson horror stuff." CHAMPIONSHIP MANAGER: Name - Martin Wilkinson, Position - manager, team - Carlisle, reputation - very poor. OTHER EXPERIENCE RELEVANT: In the mid-eighties was offered the managers position at Fram of Rekjavik, the capital of Iceland. Transformed team into a solid, hard working unit and led them to victory in the Icelandic Cup. Thus, gaining entry into the Cup Winners Cup. Failed at the first hurdle. Someone in Iceland: "Martin Wilkinson som �r General Manager i klubben s�ger s� h�r. Jag �r mycket n�jd med att f� honom hit. Han �r en h�ger mittf�ltare som ocks� kan spela i mitten. Han �r en spelare som gillar att g�ra m�l." (Which means he was'nt bad)

Bloody Madness Of Not at 22:47:19 Sunday April 13 2003
Kimberly footspar larty gurt gurts jotty jontty nose flute over a egg/cress dip,um i think you know my views on this matter..............bingy

Anon at 22:34:44 Sunday April 13 2003
Martin Wilkinson (Carlisle) Games 52 - Won 11 - Drawn 13 - Lost 28 Martin Wilkinson (Carlisle) Games 52 - Won 11 - Drawn 13 - Lost 28 Martin Wilkinson (Carlisle) Games 52 - Won 11 - Drawn 13 - Lost 28 Martin Wilkinson (Carlisle) Games 52 - Won 11 - Drawn 13 - Lost 28 Martin Wilkinson (Carlisle) Games 52 - Won 11 - Drawn 13 - Lost 28 Martin Wilkinson (Carlisle) Games 52 - Won 11 - Drawn 13 - Lost 28

Anon at 22:31:07 Sunday April 13 2003
dyslexic wobbler (or just plain dim)::: you're correcting peoples English via the internet. Nice one!

Anon at 22:07:00 Sunday April 13 2003
Martin Wilkinson (Carlisle) Games 52 - Won 11 - Drawn 13 - Lost 28 Martin Wilkinson (Carlisle) Games 52 - Won 11 - Drawn 13 - Lost 28 Martin Wilkinson (Carlisle) Games 52 - Won 11 - Drawn 13 - Lost 28 Martin Wilkinson (Carlisle) Games 52 - Won 11 - Drawn 13 - Lost 28 Martin Wilkinson (Carlisle) Games 52 - Won 11 - Drawn 13 - Lost 28 Martin Wilkinson (Carlisle) Games 52 - Won 11 - Drawn 13 - Lost 28

Rushden travel club at 22:05:35 Sunday April 13 2003
Latest offer to all ex-shoe workers,cut price trips to China to see where all your jobs went.

dyslexic wobbler (or just plain dim) at 22:03:24 Sunday April 13 2003
or you could say this at 21:25:26 Sunday April 13 2003 S U C C E S S F U L

NTFC@2view at 22:01:58 Sunday April 13 2003
It has been some time since I last visited this place and I see it is much the same as before. That last comment makes me laugh - so Rushden are bankrupt? Are you sure that relegation was in the masterplan of Ellis? Grow up children.

therealslimmartinw(not wilko) at 21:58:20 Sunday April 13 2003
As i have said before, Wilkinson's record speaks for itself and remember, he IS the man in charge, NOT Richard Hill. I am actually amazed that GABBY hasn't been thought of as a potential manager, obviously a gamble, but you would get the feeling that his teams would play football and have some intelligence. All the talk about fresh ideas from Hill is all very well, but as any manager (or former one) knows, it is the the team manager that makes the decisions not the assistant. You know it amazes me, most clubs promote their caretaker the permanent position after the team showed impressed under his stewardship. We sign him up after he did anything but. Anywa, it isn't Mr Hill isn't the one chasing Mr 'dud' Dudfield's signature. Remember it is Martin WILKINSON that is the manager and lets not get carried away with romantic Richard Hill notions. Oh love the logic that if he was once bought for �250k he must be good. Love that. Must be irony.

or you could say this at 21:25:26 Sunday April 13 2003
A succesfull football team is defined by the amount of time spent in the football league (in all of the teams various former guises). Enjoy Bankruptcy

WE ALSO HAD A 'KEEPER WITH SIGHT PROBLEMS AND NOW A MANAGER THAT CAN'T MANAGE at 21:24:37 Sunday April 13 2003
Martin Wilkinson (Carlisle) Games 52 - Won 11 - Drawn 13 - Lost 28 Martin Wilkinson (Carlisle) Games 52 - Won 11 - Drawn 13 - Lost 28 Martin Wilkinson (Carlisle) Games 52 - Won 11 - Drawn 13 - Lost 28 Martin Wilkinson (Carlisle) Games 52 - Won 11 - Drawn 13 - Lost 28 Martin Wilkinson (Carlisle) Games 52 - Won 11 - Drawn 13 - Lost 28 Martin Wilkinson (Carlisle) Games 52 - Won 11 - Drawn 13 - Lost 28 Martin Wilkinson (Carlisle) Games 52 - Won 11 - Drawn 13 - Lost 28 Martin Wilkinson (Carlisle) Games 52 - Won 11 - Drawn 13 - Lost 28 Martin Wilkinson (Carlisle) Games 52 - Won 11 - Drawn 13 - Lost 28 Martin Wilkinson (Carlisle) Games 52 - Won 11 - Drawn 13 - Lost 28 Martin Wilkinson (Carlisle) Games 52 - Won 11 - Drawn 13 - Lost 28 Martin Wilkinson (Carlisle) Games 52 - Won 11 - Drawn 13 - Lost 28Martin Wilkinson (Carlisle) Games 52 - Won 11 - Drawn 13 - Lost 28 Martin Wilkinson (Carlisle) Games 52 - Won 11 - Drawn 13 - Lost 28 Martin Wilkinson (Carlisle) Games 52 - Won 11 - Drawn 13 - Lost 28 Martin Wilkinson (Carlisle) Games 52 - Won 11 - Drawn 13 - Lost 28 Martin Wilkinson (Carlisle) Games 52 - Won 11 - Drawn 13 - Lost 28 Martin Wilkinson (Carlisle) Games 52 - Won 11 - Drawn 13 - Lost 28Martin Wilkinson (Carlisle) Games 52 - Won 11 - Drawn 13 - Lost 28 Martin Wilkinson (Carlisle) Games 52 - Won 11 - Drawn 13 - Lost 28 Martin Wilkinson (Carlisle) Games 52 - Won 11 - Drawn 13 - Lost 28 Martin Wilkinson (Carlisle) Games 52 - Won 11 - Drawn 13 - Lost 28 Martin Wilkinson (Carlisle) Games 52 - Won 11 - Drawn 13 - Lost 28 Martin Wilkinson (Carlisle) Games 52 - Won 11 - Drawn 13 - Lost 28Martin Wilkinson (Carlisle) Games 52 - Won 11 - Drawn 13 - Lost 28 Martin Wilkinson (Carlisle) Games 52 - Won 11 - Drawn 13 - Lost 28 Martin Wilkinson (Carlisle) Games 52 - Won 11 - Drawn 13 - Lost 28 Martin Wilkinson (Carlisle) Games 52 - Won 11 - Drawn 13 - Lost 28 Martin Wilkinson (Carlisle) Games 52 - Won 11 - Drawn 13 - Lost 28 Martin Wilkinson (Carlisle) Games 52 - Won 11 - Drawn 13 - Lost 28Martin Wilkinson (Carlisle) Games 52 - Won 11 - Drawn 13 - Lost 28 Martin Wilkinson (Carlisle) Games 52 - Won 11 - Drawn 13 - Lost 28 Martin Wilkinson (Carlisle) Games 52 - Won 11 - Drawn 13 - Lost 28 Martin Wilkinson (Carlisle) Games 52 - Won 11 - Drawn 13 - Lost 28 Martin Wilkinson (Carlisle) Games 52 - Won 11 - Drawn 13 - Lost 28 Martin Wilkinson (Carlisle) Games 52 - Won 11 - Drawn 13 - Lost 28

Anon at 21:23:10 Sunday April 13 2003
Martin Wilkinson (Carlisle) Games 52 - Won 11 - Drawn 13 - Lost 28

HERE'S SOME STATS FOR U TO MARVEL OVER at 21:22:44 Sunday April 13 2003
Martin Wilkinson (Carlisle) Games 52 - Won 11 - Drawn 13 - Lost 28

NTFC Dim-Wit at 21:11:24 Sunday April 13 2003
"A successful football team is defined by the size of the town's train station and number of internet supporters"

Anon at 21:03:11 Sunday April 13 2003
If you look on the R&D message board : Nice one!!!You lot dont even know where it is. Why don't you tramps try use it then?

Ralph at 21:00:40 Sunday April 13 2003
Anon, you forgot to mention that your Dad is bigger than their Dad!

Anon at 20:59:18 Sunday April 13 2003
Twat!!! So everybody who goes on the train is a nutter? You fool. What if you want a few drinks or whatever but dont want to be restricted by a coach?

Anon at 20:57:52 Sunday April 13 2003
trains are for hooligans. Most civilised people know how to drive these days

Anon at 20:56:11 Sunday April 13 2003
because people want to talk about the Diamonds all the time.

Anon at 20:48:48 Sunday April 13 2003
You don't even have a decent message board do you? Otherwise you wouldn't be on here all the time would you?

Anon at 20:48:11 Sunday April 13 2003
your the only club in the league with a smaller away end than us. your town has no train station. its just a shit hole

DeBanker at 20:43:17 Sunday April 13 2003
If you look on the R&D message board you will see that many fans at Division 2 clubs are hoping that we do get promoted. They know that Nene Park is much better than sickfields, the local council's park. As for your "hooligans" mmmmwwwahhhhahahaaaha

NATseven at 20:26:22 Sunday April 13 2003
Yeah those diamond bunnies are mincemeat.

freeatlast at 20:25:21 Sunday April 13 2003
If anyone wants one free ticket 4 West stand for each of last two home games please email me.

Anon at 20:19:25 Sunday April 13 2003
i got a message to the direones. When we finally get to meet you you better run like hell because you'll all be taking a pasting

Graham Holt at 20:13:47 Sunday April 13 2003
I think Mr Collect is angling for a job with the club at some point. Either that or TCMP is giving him lessons in insincerity and arse-licking.

Ted at 19:59:02 Sunday April 13 2003
A message to the Diamond fans that are on here gloating.Enjoy your moment but promise that you'll have the guts to come on here when you find yourselves in a similar position.I have been on this earth long enough to know that fortune can change very quickly and it could well be by this time next year situations will be reversed.

Ted at 19:50:07 Sunday April 13 2003
Ignore the tosser that keeps impersonating me below. Mr Collett...I look forward to seeing you on the 1st May cleaning the "legends" shoes.You really are one sycophantic saddo.

Careful what you say at 19:46:36 Sunday April 13 2003
Fat lady left the building........... that could be in the chron on thursday

Bloke with a twitch at 19:44:39 Sunday April 13 2003
Just watched the goals from the Vale game on Cobblers World, all 3 Vale goals were from unmarked players with defenders out of position but close enough to have done the job needed. Too late to tighten that up, the fat lady has left the building.

Dave Linnell at 19:28:16 Sunday April 13 2003
Right come on folks lets concentrate on the positives for the season. Erm...................errr...........err......................oh.................umm.................errrrrrrrrr. The puddles gone.

Tony Parsons at 19:25:58 Sunday April 13 2003
TCMP is a 'New Labour' politician, he is ruled by hypocrisy and lies. What do you expect? Get him off the NTFC Board for gods sake.

Anfony Collect at 19:23:01 Sunday April 13 2003
Will someone please kiss my feet?

Careful what you say at 19:19:42 Sunday April 13 2003
Watch out, master plaigarist Riches will be lurking looking for material for his unique view of Cobblers life in thursdays chronic echo. No doubt he'll use the analogy of yesterdays game to sum up the season. The Stoke/Port Vale comparison with Cobbers and the village idiots will get a mention. Remember you read it first on Cobblers Comments

Politically Incorrect Supporter at 18:57:10 Sunday April 13 2003
The war is over TCMP. It is politically correct for you to return to this board. Your absence is somewhat pathetic.

Anthony Collett at 18:50:49 Sunday April 13 2003
Cobblers Legend Richard Hill to guest at Trust Open Forum The latest Northampton Town Supporters' Trust open forum will take place on Thursday 1st May 2003 7:30pm for 8:00pm start in the restaurant at Sixfields Stadium. The guest speakers will be the new management team of Manager Martin Wilkinson and Assistant Manager and cobblers legend Richard Hill. Admission as ever is free of charge and open to all supporters. Trust Travel details for Tranmere Monday 21st April 2003 3pm Kick off Picking up at Weston Favell 9:00am County Tavern 9:10am Sixfields 9:30am Prices for both are �10 Adults �8 Concessions. C Contact Anthony 01604 510823 travel@ntfctrust.co.uk Jim 01327 312701

DRD2 at 18:18:15 Sunday April 13 2003
feeble....low...just like the wobbs

Let down again at 17:56:12 Sunday April 13 2003
I recently have been a bit down on my views of the team but rushden your all still a bunch of cunts and whats this i here about your manager having a heroin problem............

SCFC 4EVER!!! at 17:41:03 Sunday April 13 2003
GOING DOWN, GOING DOWN, GOING DOWN!!!! C U ON FRIDAY... GOING DOWN GOING DOWN.... 4-0 AT EDGELEY PARK! ur shit n u kno u r!

Hotel Ender at 17:40:32 Sunday April 13 2003
I'll probably get flamed but here goes anyway, Stamp was superb when he came on yesterday, he won everything in the air, and in ther second half Cobblers were by far and away the better side, I didn't think it'd be our day when their keeper made a blinding save from a Sammo header, but then Gabbi's equaliser, and then Dudfield with what we all expected to be the winner. But being a Cobblers fan we should have known better, a real kick in the teeth. I'd accepted relegation after the Brentford game, but then team go and give me hope again, only to smash it right down my throat again. But as for the Rubbish & Dustbins - I agree with the post elsewhere, they may be above us in the League next year but they'll never be a bigger club (the Stoke City/Port Vale analogy being quite timely).

Pete Hendridge at 16:36:52 Sunday April 13 2003
T parkes my arse.....he is a fireman,so there.....

Relegated? at 16:10:55 Sunday April 13 2003
R&D will stay up with the team they have at the moment.

Patsy at 15:11:47 Sunday April 13 2003
Just as I was sure that the board were going to give Wilko the job full-time, I am also sure that Wilko will keep the bulk of this insipid bunch of under-performers. Soft is a good word to describe this club, its directors, its manager, its players and its supporters. If we are to mount a serious challenge next season Spedding has to go, so does Frain, Marsh, Stamp, Dudfield, Burgess, Sampson, Gabbiadini, Hope, Trollope, Lincoln, Rickers, Lavin, Abbey, MacGregor. I hope Richard Hill is as good as everyone says he is as he has got twice the amount of work to do, with Wilkinson, Kearney & Curtis still here he has to overcome their shortcomings as well as that of the players. NOTHING that has happened on the playing side since the 'takeover' fills me with much optimism. The players brought in to the club (Youngs apart) have been fifth rate and for all this talk of Wilkinson's experience and after a lifetime in the game he has NOTHING to show for it, ideal credentials for the Cobblers. Tactics have been woeful, at last we saw Youngs play upfront with Marco and we scored goals, WHY in buggeration the management felt Dudfield and Stamp were the answer is beyond me, and yesterday after impotetnt perfomances from the strikers Wilkinson finally came to the right conclusion, worrying!! Lincoln was played centre midfield yesterday - A JOKE - and our most consistent midfielder, Harsley, was shoved out wide - A JOKE - the stagnant, and often ingnorance of basic understanding by our coaching staff makes for such a poor spectacle. The sooner we go down the better, the sooner we flounder in division 3 the better and the sooner the board begin to understand their investment the better and rid us of this mediocrity and employ a mangager that can at least string a few words together.

west stand woman at 13:52:24 Sunday April 13 2003
rushden v shefield wednesday in a league fixture - MAKE THE MOST OF IT ITS ONLY GOING TO LAST ONE SEASON!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! COS THE DIM ONES WILL BE RELGATED!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Rushden v Sheffield Wednesday in a league fixture at 12:50:59 Sunday April 13 2003
who would have thought it possible a few years ago?

Down But Not Out at 12:46:28 Sunday April 13 2003
Facing facts that we are now going to be relegated unless the team perform a miracle!! let's prove to the Dim-ones that we are the top team in the county next season by getting in bigger gates than them. All season ticket holders should renew their tickets and get behind the team for a push straight back to Div 2 - we will probably pass the Dim-ones as they come back down!!!!!! And finally a word of thanks to Mr Ellis for an unforgettable season!!

Towny at 12:34:49 Sunday April 13 2003
Cobbler on tour: ows it going mate,didnt finish the shower till 3.15!! listened to rad northampton,44mins of the 2nd half sounded quite good for cobblers fans,Got some stick on here again,little joke and lyndes? takes it seriously, doh!! wot do you reckon to hillys return?

Mr. Realist at 12:12:45 Sunday April 13 2003
Anyone who thinks we are going to come straight back up when we need to assemble an entirely new squad in the summer needs to face facts. It will take time to come together, and that's assuming we buy decent, motivated players.

Lutterworth at 12:01:47 Sunday April 13 2003
More money than we've ever had, a board with real ambition, overpaid underperforming players out of contract, a chance to rebuild, a manger who has experience and good contacts in the game, an assitant manger with the club at heart who has good experience in coaching, at last some talent in the youth team, crowd levels holding up despite three years of battling against relegation, Ted being so fed up that he'll bugger off somewhere else, I'm looking foward to next season already, shake of your Northamptonian negitivity and come and enjoy the ride.

Dr. Feelgood at 11:33:48 Sunday April 13 2003
Calm down Ted. You'll do your blood pressure no good at all.

Ted at 11:03:02 Sunday April 13 2003
Irthlingborough Coibbler at 02:21:38 Sunday April 13 2003 "And since he left, we have a new ground" YOU DON'T EVEN OWN THE GROUND YOU FOOL! No money, dwindling support, crap team, clueless chairman and manager, 2 going down to the Conference next season, not to mention the Trust, take off the claret-tinted specs!

Long time suffering Cobbler at 10:58:03 Sunday April 13 2003
As for next season in Div 3 much will depend on the club's determination to clear out the old and failed guard and bring in new blood. IMO exlcuding loanees the only players to come out of this season with any credit are Harper, Gill & Harlsey. Fenwick was righ on one issue and that was identifying that there is a malaise in this team a "softness" that has to be eradicated. Yesterday reminded us of just that.

BR at 10:05:57 Sunday April 13 2003
Yeah, BWAT I could sort it out no problem but I'd need to go on the T & T tour to get to know the inner workings of the club. I'll give 'em a ring.

Bloke with a twitch at 09:57:06 Sunday April 13 2003
Just tried listening to the post match interview with Wilko on Cobblers World. Seems to me the club should employ a sound engineer to sort their equipment and he could sort the sixfields PA while he's there. Does anyone know how to use a microphone at NTFC? BR, fancy a job?

Optimistic Meg at 09:39:16 Sunday April 13 2003
With two going down to the Conference nowadays, I reckon we could be in real trouble next season.

Anon at 09:30:37 Sunday April 13 2003
Strange when one considers that on paper this is one of the best squads we've had in recent times. TOO RIGHT - If we had a decent manager we wouldn't be where we are now, and the board haven't helped by appointing Wilko and Hill. We'll be div 3 mediocrity next season (if we are lucky). GET A DECENT MANAGER ON BOARD OR SUFFER THE CONSEQUENCES!!!!!!!!

pihuan at 08:13:40 Sunday April 13 2003
Hello Div3. It's a funny thing, but I instinctively go to the div3 table and results, so at least I'll be in the right place next season. The writing has been on the wall since before Christmas, so relegation is no great surprise. Strange when one considers that on paper this is one of the best squads we've had in recent times. Delighted to see Richard Hill back for sentimental reasons, but also think that it's a potentially exciting appointment, and hope that it works out. Re. the Vale game, life can be cruel! Like everyone else I'd got my mental calculator out when Dudfield scored, and must have been elated for a full minute! All we need for next season is a reincarnation of Frank Large!

Ralph2 at 07:07:48 Sunday April 13 2003
Good one Ralph.

Diamond realist at 06:41:38 Sunday April 13 2003
Sounds like your a glutton for punishment.

Irthlingborough Coibbler at 02:21:38 Sunday April 13 2003
TherealmartinW. How can you say it was all downhill after Griggs left NTFC. Then, as now, HE HAD NO REAL MONEY! When he was on our board, he was just another 2 bit shoe factory owner with no money. And since he left, we have a new ground , been to Wemberly 2wice, doubled our average gate.. All he has done now is to provide NTFC with a bit of entertainment and the chance to thank our lucky stars that , despite everything, we support a REAL club. And I for one will be renewing my season ticket, just like I did the last time we got relegated.

Let down again at 00:04:04 Sunday April 13 2003
What a load of bollocks, just got back from day out at vale piss pore. Wel at least Hill can turn things around.hahaha waste of f-ing time.

Anon at 23:28:15 Saturday April 12 2003
wankers like anon @17.21should go to the game and see the full picture in stead of writing bollocks on here

Alan Partridge at 22:54:00 Saturday April 12 2003
That's a funny story ....... ha ha

Ralph at 22:34:27 Saturday April 12 2003
It's a funny old game . . . first half we were awful, dodgy decision to play Lincoln centre midfield and Harsley out wide right certainly didn't pay off. Having heard Kearney talk all week about how big the pitch was we picked a really 'narrow' formation with no real wide players, Asamoah and Carruthers weren't even on the bench and would have really exploited the wide open spaces. One big plus was seeing Tom Youngs play up front and for me he made a huge difference to us. We conceded a soft goal, free header n the six yard box with evryone looking at each other. We couldn't keep the ball, Trollope and Lincoln in the middle were dire. Their keeper did make a great save from a Hargreaves shot . . . and then second half we played some of the better football I have seen this season. Trollope and Lincoln were still pretty poor but Gill and hargeaves were getting wide and from a good one two with Youngs, Hargreaves crossed for Marco to slide in the equaliser at the far post. Then Dudfield came on a carried on where he had left off, being pretty ordinary. Then bugger me if he does pop up in the six yard box in the 89th minute to stab home the winner!! Great team effort and a great comeback, as I was going out for the evening I had to leave before the final whistle but if we repeat that on Friday we'll really close the gap.

Anon at 22:27:45 Saturday April 12 2003
rdfc fock off twat at22.22.00 wanker.

RDFC at 22:22:00 Saturday April 12 2003
dyslexic Anon at 21:58:55 Saturday April 12 2003 - are you richie fan from nz in disguise by any chance?

lyndes at 22:05:13 Saturday April 12 2003
Towney, surely if you've been at it for 30 years then I'm sure you were on the Hill bandwagon, or do you not remember???? All I'm asking is give the guy a chance, he'll live or die by the results. Either way he'll be remembered you won't!!!!

Anon at 21:58:55 Saturday April 12 2003
diamonds fock off on your own site, O your not got one sad twats .lol.

Cobbler on tour. at 21:39:22 Saturday April 12 2003
Towny, how was the shower.did you finish it.See you got some stick on here.See you on friday mate.

DavCobbler at 21:04:53 Saturday April 12 2003
Can't win at home or away m8!

Ralph2 at 20:56:03 Saturday April 12 2003
No problem Dav,I hope to catch up with you at a game before the end of the season.I hope the fact that you could attend the game means things at home are easier mate.

DavCobbler at 20:48:15 Saturday April 12 2003
tosser

Ralph2 at 20:46:59 Saturday April 12 2003
twat

DR4E at 20:45:06 Saturday April 12 2003
Hi Dav. Long time no speak ;)

DRD2 at 20:44:14 Saturday April 12 2003
Adam/Tarquin is telling porkies again. He didn't watch the wobblers today either.

DavCobbler at 20:40:30 Saturday April 12 2003
Sorry folks, and in particular Ralph2. You are of course right, we can't all make every game as much as we might want too. I guess Iv'e calmed a bit now, not really angry just bloody dismayed at the last two or so minutes today.

FAO Ralph2 at 20:39:35 Saturday April 12 2003
Remind me not to read your book then. "Troo storiz by Ralph wot he maid up" isn't it?

Towny at 20:34:49 Saturday April 12 2003
Lyndes at 18:55 come back when youve had a sense of humour transplant, prick ,Ive been supporting the Cobblers for over 30 yrs,im a season ticket holder and go to away games as and when i can, some people have to work on saturdays and i shall be buying my season ticket for next year Besides ive never seen you post on here before,if you'd have read any of my previous comments,youd know if i was a bandwaggon jumper or not!!!!!

Ralph2 at 20:31:49 Saturday April 12 2003
Dav,you know I respect you and you know my loyalty to the team.I just don't understand why you are not allowed to vent your aggression on them just because you haven't been to the game, never mind the other 20 or so games you make it to.2-1 up with a couple of minutes to go and the slightest hint of light at the end of that tunnel if you can go home with the three points.But no,we go and lose 3-2. Well even if I couldn't make it today they are still gutless tossers in my book. As for you Tarquin ,no,you're not worth it.See you at Tranmere.

Spring Park Cobbler at 20:17:38 Saturday April 12 2003
For years football teams were supported by their local population it was not until the sixties that people started to travel to follow the 'big teams' such as Liverpool, Tottenham etc. The process has accelerated as big money has started to come into the game and the Prem teams are now run like any commercial outfit with the interests of the shareholders being dominant. This idea of football as just another branch of the entertainment business like bingo runs counter to the way most of us come to football, we start of playing in school and our interest grows, we then go and watch our local team and some become supporters with a long term interest in the club, some lose interest and turn up for the occasional game, but so what. It is our local club and what makes it interesting is that it is never easy. The huge sums of money wasted on the Prem will never come our way as the so called top teams attempt to shut out the lower orders but who cares we are supporters and we support the Cobblers. If the faint hearts who whinge on here about spending their money on something better then let them. They are not supporters. If they want to spend their Saturday afternoons in some sterile shopping centre untainted by the real world then fair enough, but don't pretend that you are supporters.

Well said at 20:01:41 Saturday April 12 2003
Tarquin and Dav! I cried silently, but didn't go and so obviously I COULDN'T comment. That's never stopped the prats on here though.

Andy Turner Fan Club at 19:45:43 Saturday April 12 2003
What a difference a half makes. We were poor in the first half, same shit different game, but the second half we came a bit more alive. Hargreaves pushing down the left and Gill down the right, we actually looked as if we might score. Improved performances from Stamp and Dudfield when they came on (not perfect but better). We were relegated when Fenwick took over, so no point in clutching at straws, the fat lady has left the building. Time to sort out a squad and a system for next term and enjoy the games that remain for what they are, training exercises.

Tarquin at 19:29:39 Saturday April 12 2003
If you lot had bothered to go to the game,then all well and good you can have an say on the match,if not shut the f*ck up and stop screaming like a bunch of school girls.You are pathetic,like that sad diamonds 'fan' who always on here but never goes to any of their games,why don't you just go and follow a Prem team and sit at home and watch sky....you sad losers........

DavCobbler at 19:18:17 Saturday April 12 2003
If only you could get off your arses you would have more than a right to comment on the teams performance today. Well done to the 800 or so that made the trip. I am still speechless after taking the lead in the final minute only to conceed two in injury time, a quiet trip home as you can imagine. Oh, �ushden fan(s), away and tend your ego's.

lyndes at 19:08:28 Saturday April 12 2003
Correct me if I am wrong but in the first seven games of his first full season at Stevenage didn't Hilly have a 100% record?????

Diamond Bastard at 19:04:48 Saturday April 12 2003
'Richard Hill is the man with new and fresh ideas'. Funny. Very funny indeed. Like I said before, Hill is a dumbed-down Atkins. No offence, but you could have done better, really you could. Ask Stevenage fans what they think about your new Saviour.

Anon at 19:04:41 Saturday April 12 2003
Deepcut Cobbler, your ground, players and facilities are not in the same league as RDFC

lyndes at 18:55:43 Saturday April 12 2003
Hill out? after 1 game. May I suggest that certain people (not supporters because you are not) grow up. Hilly will do his best to save a sinking ship, which is more than you will do. this time next season when we are on the up you lot will be jumping on the bandwagon, we don't need you go and support Man U the eay options. True supporters KEEP THE FAITH.

Anon at 18:47:35 Saturday April 12 2003
Heads up guys, it was all over before today and the next few games give Hill the chance to see what is needed when the deadwood is moved out.

Anon at 18:40:23 Saturday April 12 2003
We'll never be relegated after a performance like that!

Dave Albon at 18:33:04 Saturday April 12 2003
Good luck against Yeovil next season wobbs..........

Deepcut Cobbler at 17:47:47 Saturday April 12 2003
This season is now over. The fat lady is singing her heart out. The Manager with his new assistant must now look forward to life in the third. Give those fringe players an opportunity to be blooded in the remaining nothing games in preparation for next years campaign. We must be in a position at the start of next season to be able to bounce back in one season. Rubbish grounds, sparse crowds and crappy football are for the Direones, not NTFC. Lets look towards to the third with confidence that we will be back in the second within no time. Richard Hill is the man with the new and fresh ideas to enable the proper rebuilding that has now been initiated by the Cardoza takeover. So what if it starts in the third? The momentum from the third will carry us through to the First. As always I am an optimist. Thats why we support the club through thick and thin. It has been worse than this but before the internet, do you remember those days? At least we are still in the proper league and not dropping into the Conference like Exeter, Carlisle, Shrewsbury, Brizzle Rovers, Boston or Swansea. To next season in the Third.. COME ON YOU COBBLERS!!! FOREVER COBBLERS...........

A Childs View at 17:43:29 Saturday April 12 2003
Oh my God, simply unbelievable. We are dead certs for relegation now and I only hope Stockport stuff us on Friday to put us out of our misery as soon as possible.

9224 at 17:41:56 Saturday April 12 2003
I'll still never go to watch the Diamonds though

9224 at 17:40:18 Saturday April 12 2003
Year after year we shell out A LOT of hard-earned money for what? For the display shown in the last two minutes by a team with no passion, commitment or pride!! That's what. We get nothing back from the club in terms of entertainment, pride or fun. Well done to the board for the season ticket guest offer, but it doesn't disguise the fact that PRICES ARE TOO HIGH FOR THE RUBBISH THAT'S ON OFFER. There's no way we can blame the management team for what happened today though. The blame lies squarely at the door of the players - ALL OF WHOM, WITHOUT EXCEPTION, should be seeking new employment in the summer. Even our so-called 'better' players would struggle to get into a real team, and they were preferred to last year's squad, which finished the season so well! I hope that the players are as ASHAMED of themselves as I am embarrased to be associated with them. A real chance to dig ourselves some way out of trouble, all we had to do was KICK THE FUCKING THING INTO TOUCH for three minutes and we couldn't do it. For shame!

Stamford Cobbler at 17:30:10 Saturday April 12 2003
i'm looking forward tto seeing cobblers be div 3 champions next year! this year is long dead for me

ADAM, Leicester at 17:24:52 Saturday April 12 2003
I'm fed up of pretending to support the Cobblers. All they do is lose every week. Even changing usernames is not funny anymore.

Northampton Town Football Club at 17:14:35 Saturday April 12 2003
gutless and unprofessional bunch of tossers.They are a disgrace gutless and unprofessional bunch of tossers.They are a disgrace gutless and unprofessional bunch of tossers.They are a disgrace gutless and unprofessional bunch of tossers.They are a disgrace gutless and unprofessional bunch of tossers.They are a disgrace gutless and unprofessional bunch of tossers.They are a disgrace gutless and unprofessional bunch of tossers.They are a disgrace gutless and unprofessional bunch of tossers.They are a disgrace gutless and unprofessional bunch of tossers.They are a disgrace gutless and unprofessional bunch of tossers.They are a disgrace gutless and unprofessional bunch of tossers.They are a disgrace gutless and unprofessional bunch of tossers.They are a disgrace gutless and unprofessional bunch of tossers.They are a disgrace gutless and unprofessional bunch of tossers.They are a disgrace gutless and unprofessional bunch of tossers.They are a disgrace gutless and unprofessional bunch of tossers.They are a disgrace gutless and unprofessional bunch of tossers.They are a disgrace gutless and unprofessional bunch of tossers.They are a disgrace gutless and unprofessional bunch of tossers.They are a disgrace gutless and unprofessional bunch of tossers.They are a disgrace gutless and unprofessional bunch of tossers.They are a disgrace gutless and unprofessional bunch of tossers.They are a disgrace gutless and unprofessional bunch of tossers.They are a disgrace gutless and unprofessional bunch of tossers.They are a disgrace gutless and unprofessional bunch of tossers.They are a disgrace gutless and unprofessional bunch of tossers.They are a disgrace gutless and unprofessional bunch of tossers.They are a disgrace gutless and unprofessional bunch of tossers.They are a disgrace gutless and unprofessional bunch of tossers.They are a disgrace gutless and unprofessional bunch of tossers.They are a disgrace gutless and unprofessional bunch of tossers.They are a disgrace gutless and unprofessional bunch of tossers.They are a disgrace

Anon at 17:11:32 Saturday April 12 2003
Its probably a blessing in disguise that we lost in the end.There's nothing worse than clutching at invisible straws.Let's face it though,have we ever had a worse bunch of losers wearing the claret.For sure we've had worse teams in the past but I can't remember a more gutless and unprofessional bunch of tossers.They are a disgrace, and anyone who comes on here defending them is mad.

Gloryhunter at 17:07:55 Saturday April 12 2003
Anon at 16:59:20 Saturday April 12 2003 I give up - Im off to watch Rushden

The Laughing Diamond at 17:06:51 Saturday April 12 2003
HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA HAHA

Towny at 17:02:43 Saturday April 12 2003
Hill out!!!!!!

Towny at 17:02:40 Saturday April 12 2003
Hill out!!!!!!

Ralph2 at 16:59:41 Saturday April 12 2003
Oh well,at least the pricks only got my hopes up for all of a minute. I hope that bunch of bottlers feel sufficiantly ashamed,USELESS PRICKS.

Anon at 16:59:20 Saturday April 12 2003
I give up - Im off to watch Rushden

Deepcut Cobbler at 16:54:29 Saturday April 12 2003
SHIT...3-2.....

Anon at 16:54:13 Saturday April 12 2003
VALE 3:2 COBBLERS

Ralph2 at 16:54:11 Saturday April 12 2003
What a bunch of tossers.

Anon at 16:53:55 Saturday April 12 2003
VALE SCORE AGAIN!! WTF is our defence?

Deepcut Cobbler at 16:53:43 Saturday April 12 2003
2-2 COME ON YOU COBBLERS!!!

Anon at 16:53:36 Saturday April 12 2003
inexcusable

Anon at 16:52:43 Saturday April 12 2003
VALE EQUALISE!! BA*****S

Deepcut Cobbler at 16:52:20 Saturday April 12 2003
1-2 Dudfield. 3 Mins of inj time left... COME ON YOU COBBLERS!!!

Anon at 16:52:10 Saturday April 12 2003
3 minutes extra time.

Anon at 16:51:56 Saturday April 12 2003
wank

Anon at 16:51:38 Saturday April 12 2003
And me.

Anon at 16:50:28 Saturday April 12 2003
Vale 1: Cobblers 2 - 90 seconds left!!

Anon at 16:50:02 Saturday April 12 2003
DUDFIELD SCORES!!!

Anon at 16:49:27 Saturday April 12 2003
dudfield what a striker

Anon at 16:49:15 Saturday April 12 2003
well fuck me!

Anon at 16:45:48 Saturday April 12 2003
Mansfield getting a pasting...

Sean from London at 16:30:27 Saturday April 12 2003
1-1 Gabbi Gabbi Hey !

Deepcut Cobbler at 16:28:59 Saturday April 12 2003
1-1 Marco. COME ON YOU COBBLERS!!!

GEE at 16:07:10 Saturday April 12 2003
Cambcob, the reason many people are considering there options this year regarding season tickets is the high cost. I for one am in a position where I dont have 300 quid to just throw at the club. Its not always a straight forward case of people turning there backs on the club. I would love nothing more than to carry on but I have to justify the price tag to my conscience-and my wife.

Anon at 15:58:38 Saturday April 12 2003
Who enjoys going to Cobblers games anymore? Honest answers only please. I don't.

thats twice i at 15:58:19 Saturday April 12 2003
have agreed with Ted...yes i am going mad.

Sean from London at 14:37:06 Saturday April 12 2003
Come on Saints - no time to lose (remember the old Monty Python joke?)

Ted at 12:29:35 Saturday April 12 2003
camcob..The reson many will not renew their season tickets is simple.As a purchaser of a years worth of entertainment,you are entitled to expect that the quality of that entertainment will come up to a standard near equivalent to the price paid.The standard of football, and indeed the whole matchday experience has for the past two or three years fell so far short of even the minimum expected that anyone who has even half a brain has begun to question the reasoning in continuing to throw hard earned money to watch over-paid lazy footballers go through motions for ninety minutes on a saturday afternoon.There are many more interesting and rewarding ways to be entertained and get away from the strains and stresses of modern life.

Ted at 12:11:13 Saturday April 12 2003
Ray..Please don't interpret my postings as being racist.The majority of the anti-social scum that I was referring to are white brits like myself,and the honest law abiding citizens is made up of peoples from many different countries and origins.Unfortunately "racist" is a vastly over-used word that is hastily placed on anyone who has an opinion.

cambcob at 12:00:12 Saturday April 12 2003
Why do people even contemplate not renewing their season tickets. Wheres the loyalty in that? Weve always had ups and many downs but I cant understand if its in your blood its like an addiction. Can people seriously sit there at home on their arses during games next season.If thats the case you might as well f**k off up the road or 'support' Man u or Arsenal.

Sparky at 11:51:34 Saturday April 12 2003
What's empty factories got to do with the Diamonds, Towny? because as I understand it empty factories in England will mean more money made in China.

minging mong at 11:43:53 Saturday April 12 2003
Nice one Ray..........

Ray at 11:21:16 Saturday April 12 2003
Some postings on here are now becoming close to the mark particularly with regard to racist abuse. I don't mind a rational argument but please take care - I don't want to be deleting stuff.

THANKS FOR SPEAKING UP FOR PEOPLE LIKE ME at 11:16:17 Saturday April 12 2003
Nice One Ted!

Bloke with a twitch at 11:10:38 Saturday April 12 2003
Well you are obviously making a difference Ted - Not

Ted at 11:00:52 Saturday April 12 2003
Bwat..I love your optimism,or should I say naivety.What do I do to improve the town? First and foremost I make myself heard.I am on the committee of the local residents association, and I also regularly attend debates and forums on relevent local issues.Unfortunately this is now a town where minorities rule,and the lives of the good ,honest and law abiding citizen has been disregarded .The easiest thing in the world is to put up with the things that are so blatently wrong and moan and groan to yourself.Well I'm not like that! If there is something that I disagree with then I say it,and I don't care who it upsets.There are far too many "do-gooders" in this country who protect and excuse the lazy, filthy,anti-social scum that inhabit this beautiful island.It's time we got tough and restored this country to it's former glory.

Ralph2 at 10:51:14 Saturday April 12 2003
Maybe,just maybe,Richard Hill will give Trollope and his like a good kick up the arse and get some decent football out of them.

A Childs View at 10:44:58 Saturday April 12 2003
Sounds like we'll get 442 today from MW's comments on the official site. Team should be Harper, Frain, Sammo, Reid and Gill. Midfield of CC, Hargeaves, Harsley and Asa with Youngs and Gabbi up front. If he plays that we might just get a result - only a win will do so we've no choice but to get on with attacking. I'm going to sound like a deluded fool now, but, if we could get a win today, beat Stockport on Friday and other results go our way, we'd be back in with a shout with 3 games to go - you never know, its very unlikely but football is a crazy game and anything can happen until its mathematical. That said, we could just easily serve up rubbish today like against Wigan. Stamp, Trollope, Dudfield (bloody useless in my book) should not be allowed anywhere near the team today.

Minging mong at 10:32:39 Saturday April 12 2003
Nice one

Bloke with a twitch at 10:13:15 Saturday April 12 2003
Ted, you say how crap our town is, what have you done to try and improve it? The managerial team is a realistic one, we will be in div 3 next season, the players we have were good enough to be mid table at christmas, why shouldn't they be good enough next season in the third? Don't set your targets too high, you'll only be disappointed, but when we do get to the top the highs will be even better

Lyndes at 10:11:47 Saturday April 12 2003
Hilly has a heart for Northampton (it wasn't his only offer but it was his first choice) that is why he is back, he believes. Call me naive but wouldn't it be great if the 'so called'fairweather fans felt the same about the club and got behind them.

eastcoteobbler at 09:44:52 Saturday April 12 2003
all the crap and guff spoke on here about " our plight" i think is a reflaction on whats happening doen the a45 ay Nonce Park. Once we get over the fact that are in a higher league than us ( notice the wordage there - no reference to them being the number one team in the county coz they never can be! Eg Port Vale were higher than Stoke for some years but were never the bigger club!) and realise that with mr Cardoza backing us WE will be the club that has money for a change, while i dont i believe that we will have a lot of cash we will surely have enough for the third divison particularly with all the dead wood pensioned off.... By the way Richard Hill is a great coup if he coaches like he plays with his heart on his sleeve then good luck to him.....

We''ll never play you - EVER!! at 09:15:46 Saturday April 12 2003
U R Welcome! Enjoy Boston and Yeovil old chap. Toodle Loo!!

Anon at 09:10:02 Saturday April 12 2003
I like it when other teams don't like us,it's all the more fun.Thanks.

We'll never play you, EVER!! at 08:36:41 Saturday April 12 2003
Hey, I am looking forward to going to Loftus Road, The Brittania Stadium, Hillsborough and visits to Swindon and Bristol it is going to be fantastic. . . give my regards to the boys at Aggborough, they don't like you lot!!

Anon at 08:33:34 Saturday April 12 2003
If we pay money for Dudfield then I will know that the board and Wilkinson have totally lost it as well as my support.

Blind Faith Strikes Again!! at 08:30:32 Saturday April 12 2003
'Dudfeild (sic) must have some sort of skill about him else he wouldn't haved moved for �250k' - WHAT LOGIC!!

Towny at 08:24:46 Saturday April 12 2003
Hey sparky,ive seen nene park recently,all those empty factories and loads of gyppos parked there,or are they the players homes!!...... I do hope that during the summer Wilko makes contact with his Rangers mates and brings a couple more in with Reids calibre,Dudfeild must have some sort of skill about him else he wouldnt havemoved for�250k in the past(confidence).Im gonna get a season ticket for me and the boy,i cant just give up ,i dont beleive that 50% wont buy theirs. I hope this time next year sixfields is full and all the stay away wankers cant get in,i can hear them now "ive been a fan all my life and cant get in, tis not fair,the dissentig voices on here amount to about 10,well you lot go to Dim-ones!!

Tarquin at 07:56:50 Saturday April 12 2003
Ted at 20:09:34 Friday April 11 2003 me old mucker,i have to agree with that post.......

Sparky at 07:36:02 Saturday April 12 2003
Both Rushden Town and Irthlingborough Diamonds had past history and tradition, but the new club RDFC have no history and no tradition, this is something that can only come with time, but what they do have instead is a fantastic venue at Nene Park catering for many activities seven days a week, and of course a bloody good football team,so the future looks bright and sparkly.

Anon at 05:52:23 Saturday April 12 2003
THAT JUST ABOUT DOES IT FOR ME - YOU CAN STICK YOUR SEASON TICKET UP YOUR BUM NTFC - DUDFIELD TOO IS TOO MUCH TO BEAR!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

therealslimmartinW (not wilkinson) at 02:18:38 Saturday April 12 2003
JUST WHEN YOU THOUGHT IT COULDN'T GET WORSE... Lawrie Dudfield could be a permanent signing. The Hull drop out has said he would like the loan agreement to be turned into a permanent one. Apparently the 22-year-old has impressed the club during his spell and he believes he can help us stay up. "There are a lot of teams I could be on-loan with where there is nothing to play for, but there is everything to play for here and I just want to make sure I play well and that we stay up," he said. "Then hopefully I can get something sorted because I would like to stay at the club." Martin Wilkinson apparently want to secure Dudfield on a permanent basis but will have to wait until the end of the current campaign before opening contract negotiations. However, Hull City manager Peter Taylor said: "Lawrie is there until the end of the season and we will then sit down, have a chat about things, and see what happens."

therealslimMartinW (not Wilkinson) at 02:07:32 Saturday April 12 2003
I think Wilko's appointment is about money rather than talent.. and shows the dire straits the club continues to be in despite the buy out. Its all very well mentioning all the big names out of the game at the moment, but lets face facts, and we don't always as fans, the game is about money and we aint gone none. I would have to say that I cannot believe we cannot get better for the money, but I would have thought if there was anybody, we would have gone for them. Quite frankly the thought that Rushden and Piemen will be the number one club in Northamptonshire next season is a reflection of the way NTFC has gone steadily downhill since we snubbed Max Griggs. I think the Doc Martens boss is getting the last laugh now, don't you. Richard Hill's appointment is bound to wet the knickers of those like Mr Childs who remember his hey day when he was knocking them in for the club from midfield, but that it doesn't take a degree in rocket science to work out that that does not necessarily mean he is a great man to have on board as a manager. However, my understanding is that Hill's redundancy was made for fiscal reasons rather than lack of ability. Both Hill and Wayne Jones, Andy Hessenthaler's right hand men, have been working at the club without a contract since the collapse of ITV Digital. Since then the club's financial position has continued to deteriorate with the fall in revenue from an internet deal, and it's believed that the Bank of Scotland have demanded the club make stringent cuts to balance the books while rumours of the club going into administration persist. Within a matter of weeks, the youth team manager Kevin Bremner, physio Ken Steggles, had of media Murray Evans, the ticket office manager, various admin staff and of course Monsieur Cobblers legend were gone. But Gills player-manager Andy Hessenthaler while gutted that he has lost Hill believes his former number two can give us a chanc to survive... he hasn't seen our league position clearly. He said" "It's great news for Hilly and I'm absolutely delighted that he is back in football so quickly. It just goes to show you that people do take notice of you if you're achieving good things. He's a good coach with a vast knowledge of the game. I'm sure that if Northampton didn't have a chance of surviving relegation before Hilly's appointment, �they do now. I have no doubt that Hilly can do a good job for them." What makes Hill a bigger plus is that it looks like he snubbed a possible move to Oxford to join up with Ian "total tosser" Atkins. Sorry, but he is. As for Mr Wilkinson, well, I can only think that there is some kind of virus that links West Ham and the Cobblers in that they can both make totally incredulous decisions about who should manage the team. Most West Ham fans are still scratching their heads wondering how in the world Roeder got the manager's job at the Hammers (MONEY) when all he had achieved involved getting Watford relegated. Likewise look at Wilkinson's record. Sorry guys, this is a Family Fortunes uh uh.

FAO Andy at 00:14:49 Saturday April 12 2003
You're a bit of a gobby lad!

MCHammer at 23:37:07 Friday April 11 2003
'Sack the board' D*ckhead. Yeah get rid of Cardoza we can go bust and then that will solve the problem of whether we will be succesfull or not. By the way it probably is about 50/50 on the official site it's just the whingers like to take up more space with their inane ramblings.

ntid at 23:32:23 Friday April 11 2003
if you dont want to renew your season ticket dont, fuck off to diamond or MK just stop moaning its getting soooo boring its been the same forever and allways will be, hope is all that keeps us going but it will keep me going allways has, 600 games i bet some shite was served up amongst them but still he goes and last week you were all in awe. cobblers through thick and very thin. as i said a few weeks ago only gets busy round here when you can all moan.

Anarchy at 23:15:59 Friday April 11 2003
You want to read the amount of complaints on the official site message boards Ted, it look like more than 50% to me. Sack the Board time methinks!!

Andy at 23:14:33 Friday April 11 2003
Anon, you typify the smart arsed tossers who are just dragging the club in to oblivion. Arsene Wenger may be an exception and pretty exceptional one. Just try a bit of debate instead of your more usual mass debate!!

Curious at 23:08:26 Friday April 11 2003
What i want to know is - Who at the club now even remembers Hill? apart from Dennis "Makes them worse" Casey? surely theres nobody still there from then

Ted at 23:06:27 Friday April 11 2003
It does strike me that Wilkinson was given the managers job on a permanent basis some time back.Anyone who was at the last Trust meeting as I was must have got that impression when Wilkinson was introduced to the audience as the new manager of NTFC.What gets me is the contempt that the hierarchy has for the fans of this club.We are not all that green that we can't see what has gone on here.Wilkinson was given the job obviously not a popular choice with many fans,so to appease the dissenting mob they throw in a Cobblers "legend" as number two.Well is doesn't wash with me ,and I believe it's the same for the rest of the 50% who will not renew their season tickets.The gulf between what the club can or will provide and what many fans now demand is so great,there is no doubt many will desert the already sinking ship.

Anon at 22:59:06 Friday April 11 2003
Because Arsene Wenger had a glittering playing career didnt he?

Andy at 22:06:03 Friday April 11 2003
Interesting reading the list of managers in this division and it is duly noted the pedigree that those managers at the top of this division have compared to Wilkinson and Hill. Looking up a division where our board laughingly say we will be in their 5 year plan you have the likes of: George Burley, Harry Redknapp, Mick McCarthy, Steve Coppell, Micky Adams, Paul Hart, Dave Jones, Neil Warnock, Joe Royle, Nigel Worthington, Gary McAllister and on and on . . . so you can see by this bunch and the bunch below we are light years away from even being close to having the correct bloke in charge. Even Brian Talbot's pedigree far outweighs that of Wilkinson, Hill, Kearney (for goodness sake) and (stone me) Curtis. Outside of Northampton you'd find it difficult to find anyone who knew any of these guys. How many top flight appearances have they had between them? How many international caps between them? How much European and International experience have they between them? (holidays not included), What network can they claim? When did Wilko get his coaching badge? (I'll look it up in Wilf Mannion's guide to Soccer). Oooh dear, we are already off the pace and a stretch in Division 3 is looming, just where most of you seem happy and dare I say it at home!

Jamie Forrester at 21:51:29 Friday April 11 2003
I may be out for the rest of the season but at least im not there.

TedFan at 21:46:04 Friday April 11 2003
That last post by you anon makes you out to be a real arse!

Let down again at 21:43:59 Friday April 11 2003
Ted spot on mate.

Anon at 21:41:48 Friday April 11 2003
Go far far away Ted to a town or place that deserves your intellect. Pity is I can't think of anywhere.

Towny at 21:37:13 Friday April 11 2003
Cobbler ontour,how are you mate,im fitting a shower in the morning,if i get finnished i'll be there....... to see another shower! last time iwent marco scored a screamer and we was 2-0 up in 20mins could only manage a draw tho!!

WHY ARE WE BOTTOM at 21:35:44 Friday April 11 2003
ROY HUNTER, JAMES HUNT, CARLO CORAZZIN, KEITH WELCH, IAN HENDON, DAVE SAVAGE..........THE LIST COULD GO ON AND ON. IF WE STILL HAD SOME OF THESE LADS I THINK WE COULD BE LOOKING AT A GOOD FINISH. I AGREE KETTERING WILL SOON BE ARE ONLY DERBY

Let down again at 21:29:18 Friday April 11 2003
And yes i agree Wilko is complete AMBITION

Let down again at 21:28:10 Friday April 11 2003
Well woopie doodar weve got an assistant manager watch out division 3 that makes us a big threat. Now maybe i wouldnt be so bothered but when i get a message on my mobile saying big name to return i think hmmm intresting but this is just shit. When are we going to do something important like sign some players who play like they want to win. The simple fact is we are going nowhere but down and things are soon to get worse, diamond are set to be in a higher league and with wimbledon moving to shithole of england i see the futre being very very dull for us i mean every fan i speak to says 'at least we will win divisoin 3' well firstly are record against 3rd divison cambridge shity wasnt very good this yr and secondly were are the biggest waste of time i have seen in a longtime, i think we may have one local derby within the next few yrs though kettering. Well port vale here we come so beware.haha

Cobbler on tour. at 21:23:12 Friday April 11 2003
Tonwy, are you going to Port Vale tomorrow. if so see you there.

ajp at 21:16:03 Friday April 11 2003
I must say im a little worried with wilkos comments about 'getting new contracts sorted out' should it not have been contract as the only on that deserves a new one is jerry gill!

been missing for a while but at 21:03:25 Friday April 11 2003
had to come on and agree with Teds last posting...am i mad ?

Anon at 20:32:49 Friday April 11 2003
Paul Jewell, Dario Gradi, Lenny Lawrence, Ian Dowie, Danny Wilson, Joe Kinnear, Steve McMahon, Andy King, Alan Pardew, Bobby Gould, Lawrie Sanchez, Carlton Palmer, Barry Fry, Brian Talbot, Keith Curl, Brian Horton . . . and we get Martin 'WHO?' Wilkinson!! Ambitious or what!?

Shakey at 20:25:32 Friday April 11 2003
Blimey, never thought I'd see the day Ted but I have to say I agree with both of your last postings. . . and a word for Towny, I agree that Richard Hill will give his usual 120% but 120% of what remains to be seen. This appointment is a soft option.

Ted at 20:09:34 Friday April 11 2003
Tarquin my friend..Ofcourse I'm a Cobblers fan and I also love the town that I have lived in all my life.Unfortunately everything in this town is second rate.I say everything but as hard as it is to say,the one thing that isn't is the Rugby.It's a crap game all arse and whistle and I hate it, but you have to admit that it has been marketed superbly and is reaping the rewards of clever investment.Everything else about Northampton is second rate.The shops, the apalling council,the litter,the abandoned cars and the football club.I long for the day when we can have a football club that the size of the town merits.It's nothing short of a disgrace that a mere village a few miles from here can boast of having the best team in Northamptonshire even though they will never have the potential to be a big club.Believe me there are many who feel exactly the same and are totally disillusioned.

Bloody Madness Of Not at 19:54:54 Friday April 11 2003
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Towny at 19:33:33 Friday April 11 2003
How many times have we read"now is the time to get behind the club", well i neednt say it again although its true The appointment of Richard Hill is a great one, regardless of what position hes in!! Anyone who remembers him from his playing days will hold him in the highest regard, he always gave 120%,and i beleive he will do the same now.He may have failed at Stevenage,we dont know why. He seems to have done well at Gillingham by all accounts,so why not here? Hes not going to want to go from here a wanker after being a legend is he!

Anon at 19:24:39 Friday April 11 2003
I was looking forward to the weekend but then Ted returned. SAD MAN.

Tarquin at 19:23:58 Friday April 11 2003
Ted are you a Cobblers supporter?

Ted at 18:59:53 Friday April 11 2003
Another easy option for a club so short of ideas.There now seems to be such a split in support,with one half happy to put up with the fodder served up week after week on and off the pitch,and through blind loyalty and force of habit will happily fork out for a season ticket.The other half however are so frustrated with the position the club finds itself in and the apparent lack of any real ambition,that they are unlikely to invest in a season ticket this season and could well be lost forever.This is exactly what I forcast would happen if the support of NTFC was not united in the cause.Twits like Collett and his half wit cronies are to blame.Bring back Broadhust they proclaimed, when everyone knew we were going nowhere.Perhaps though thats what they wanted!A nice little club,with a nice little "clicky" support.I have said it before,and I'll say it again.This club will go nowhere whilst it has passionless fans that want to play nice friendly games of football with fans from other clubs instead of being partisan to the cause of making our club great.

Reality strikes.... at 18:59:38 Friday April 11 2003
A note to the moaners....Martin Wilkinson has been given the job so whingeing about it and complaining that we didn't appoint George Burley or Steve Cotterill etc. is really a waste of time and will do nothing to help the club's cause. You might as well accept that you either get behind Wilko until at least Christmas or you go and watch the Diamonds. I wasn't Fenwick's biggest fan, but the disruption caused by having 3 managers in one season looks like it has contributed to our relegation. The decision has been made.

Tarquin at 17:00:02 Friday April 11 2003
Well i'll be renewing my season ticket,a sound choice with Hill,i think he will be manager for the new season(whichever Div we are in).In the summer we need to get rid of the deadwood/sicknotes in the team and rebuild,c u all at Port vale and lets make some noise........(the fightback again starts here)...........if we are gonna go down lets not go out with a wimper.

So at 15:03:54 Friday April 11 2003
who have good managers? 1 Wigan, not short of a bob or two, 2 Crewe, good manager but not our type, 3 Cardiff, not short of a bob or two, 4 Oldham, had a bob or two for a while, I think, but Dowie is a reasonable bloke, 5 Bristol City, small tyown club doing well (sarcasm) 6 QPR, total tw�t. I think Colchester are the success side; they make us look 'Premiership' with their resources. We ought to find out what they do and get a bit of it.

FAO Shakey at 14:56:52 Friday April 11 2003
"...why Sixfields is so bereft of any real passion and atmosphere because you all sit there saying 'well he's a nice bloke' and 'ooh weren't we unlucky today'" - and the rest are like you, booing the players and staff, eh Shakey?

Chip at 14:44:41 Friday April 11 2003
I thought it obvious that you cannoy buy success, many have tried and failed. But one thing for sure to give you every chance of success is a good manager. So if we do have money it is there that I would start to spend. You only have to look at the table to see who have good managers and who do not. We have a squad more than capable of sustaining us in this division but a succesion of poor managers makes it very likely we will be relegated. Give me a sound manager any day an stop tinkering.

Vidal Sassoon chirpy cockerny barber at 14:38:33 Friday April 11 2003
Where's yer Banet gone Hilly?

Andy Turner Fan Club at 14:35:37 Friday April 11 2003
I for one am happy with the appointment of Hill as No 2. A brave step by the board to build for the future which is almost certain to include a season or two in div 4. It would have been easy to spend lots of money on a 'name' manager who would buy his way out of trouble but put the club in the shite financially. I guess Wilko would almost be a director of football figure, with Hill and Kearney doing the hands on stuff. Good luck to Wilko and Hill, and congratulations to the board for a brave decision.

Anon at 14:12:08 Friday April 11 2003
If Richard Hill was as good as Gillingham say he was, then why did they get rid of him? If it was a cost cutting exercise then surely those in other coaching positions would have gone first?

Shakey at 14:09:46 Friday April 11 2003
So are we all saying we are happy with this appointment? I'd venture to say that the majority appear to be disappointed and disallusioned. It is easy to say give them a chance but too many people here lately have sadly been proved right, Stamp was a bad buy - 'give him a chance', Dudfield is a poor loan signing - 'give him a chance' in the meantime we have gradually sunk to the bottom of the table. I get fed up with people who seem content to settle for second best all the time and that is probably why Sixfields is so bereft of any real passion and atmosphere because you all sit there saying 'well he's a nice bloke' and 'ooh weren't we unlucky today'. Stand up and be counted, be prepared to say what you feel if you believe it is right and don't succumb to these so called 'Loyalists' who seem prepared to let this club slide in to oblivion. This is a retrograde step and does nothing to tantalise my footballing appetite, it is just another brick in the wall.

Long time suffering Cobbler at 13:57:01 Friday April 11 2003
Good stuff Mark Too. I will be renewing my seaosn ticket.

Sweaty Cobbler at 13:42:02 Friday April 11 2003
Whether we stay up or not the fact is the board are slowly turning the ship round and building for the future. Wilko likes to be up in the stands, and Hill will run the show on the touchline, kearney is also a good coach (see under 19s). High profile 'only used to cash appointments 'are no use to us. People who can work on tight budgets with average players is what we need like Atkins, Carr etc. As for 'Pride of the County' - u'd love to have an old boy in charge u chump, but the fact is you have no history and no passion so shove ure doc marten wearing plastic fan head up ure backside!

Mark Too at 13:35:24 Friday April 11 2003
Do some people never stop whingeing? Get a grasp of reality, we are not going to attract a "top" manager, but I think the appointment of Richard Hill could be a very good one. How much do any of us really know of his coaching ability? Not much I would guess. Just because he hasn't been in the spotlight as manager of a club so we can all see his successes and failures doesn't mean he is no good, and Gillingham have a very high opinion of him. He has stated himself that he works best as a number two. We haven't given Wilkinson long to prove himself, made shorter by his unfortunate, but rightful absence so I can't see how anyone can criticise him yet either. Who knows they may perform a miracle and keep us up, but even if we go down we now have no choice but to either carry on whingeing or get right behind them. I know which will be more effective for the success of the club.

Anon at 12:49:40 Friday April 11 2003
Richard Hill has almost managed Gillingham single handedly in the 1st division for the past few seasons. They are gutted that they had to let him go. I suppose you all expected David O Leary, Cotteril. Yeah they are all desperate to work for NTFC. Give them a chance. Wait till half of the Glasgow Rangers reserve team is playing for us next year, and then slag off Wilko

Also FAO Toe Poke at 12:49:00 Friday April 11 2003
Why shouldn't the board have not accepted relegation. Surely you have? If not why not. 50 points isn't likely to keep us up so that means we need to win 5 out of 5. Get some reality!

A Childs View at 12:46:29 Friday April 11 2003
I guessed right, Hilly is here - not wishing to crow but I suggested this on Monday, aren't I the smarty pants!! Not to sure about the job he's got though, my crystal bal now tells me he'll be manager within 3 months of next season! Very pleased he's here, not so pleased that Wilko is number 1. Under the circumstances I'll renew my season ticket - but only just!!

FAO Toe Poke at 12:38:44 Friday April 11 2003
"devine wisdom" Would that be Sean Devine? "The supporters of this club deserved better" The supporters of this club, as represented on this board, are a bunch of whingers with not the slightest grasp of reality. We should have Tinkerbell as manager. Fenwick's remark about the Premiership was crass, but the man who says he is now in the job he'd always wanted since childhood would be clinically insane.

Toe Poke at 12:07:52 Friday April 11 2003
Now I have seen everything.......another spot of devine wisdom, I think the board have already accepted relegation and the appointment will hardly inspire the players for the remaining games. The supporters of this club deserved better and I cant beleive that there was no other person that applied would have been a better choice, or perhaps we could not afford them. You only get what you pay for.

Reality strikes at 11:57:10 Friday April 11 2003
There are still people who believe that we have the supporters, the cash and the cachet to attract a premier / first division management team and players. Let's just accept that we are a lower league team with none of the above, and at least give the guys in charge a chance.

The Pride of The County - R&D at 11:15:59 Friday April 11 2003
DIAMONDS - TALBOT - PROMOTION - BYE, BYE, IT'S CONFERENCE FOR YOU BOYS - HAH, HAH, WHAT A JOKE YOU ARE BECOMING - SHIT GROUND, SHIT FANS AND NOW AN OLD BOY AS A MANAGER

Some Future!! at 11:13:12 Friday April 11 2003
The more I read in to this the more I come to the conclusion this is just a knee-jerk reaction by the board to appease the fans after the disgust we have voiced at the 'running' of the team since the appointment of Martin Wilkinson and his entourage. Hill was made redundant on Monday and in the job by Thursday so no attempt has been made to go through the applications sent in after Fenwick's dismissal. The sad fact is that Wilkinson is still in charge and it shows the measure of this boards ambition to make such a poor appointment as this. It has done nothing to rid this club of the stale and stagnant mess that it has been in for the past few seasons and this board have just fudged the issue. I believe there is more to this than meets the eye. Wilkinson will be gone early next season and Curtis and Kearney must follow. Richard Hill's fate is dependent on this, he'll either get dragged down by them or rise like a Phoenix from the ashes. All in all neither men fill me with much enthusiasm having researched their careers to date.

George - Bucks No1 Cobbler at 11:10:03 Friday April 11 2003
Its on the official site now. WILKO MANAGER. HILL NO2

Loyalist at 11:04:48 Friday April 11 2003
Don'y worry, the usual supsects around me will be taking up their seats next seas come what may.

Anon at 10:46:15 Friday April 11 2003
I hope you wont be lonely Loyalist

Loyalist at 10:06:35 Friday April 11 2003
I will be renewing my season ticket so clear off all the whingers.

Nosey Parker at 09:56:10 Friday April 11 2003
By the ways its confirmed on the official site

Nosey Parker at 09:55:24 Friday April 11 2003
Richard Hill as Assitant......lol Another high profile nobody!! I am sure 1000s will be flocking to renew there season tickets now?.......NOT!!

MCHammer at 09:42:37 Friday April 11 2003
Ok I know you might be playing it safe but let me spell it out for you......ok I'll speak slowly......RICHARD HILL himself was on Talksport last night confirming that he is the NEW ASSISTANT MANAGER at the Cobblers. Quite what this has to do with Wilkinson going OUT THE DOOR I have no idea. He's coming in as assistant to Wilkinson. I know the club haven't confirmed it yet but the fact that RICHARD HILL himself confirmed it yesterday gave me a big clue.

Yet to be confirmed at 09:36:00 Friday April 11 2003
Yes MC hammer I read it and the bit above it which says "yet to be confirmed" No doubt it is 75% right but until the club tell us the whole story we should not start to comment. Some of the post have Wilkonson already out the door before Hill has arrived

MCHammer at 09:24:10 Friday April 11 2003
Stop the Rumours, It's not just speculative shite seeing as I was listening to Richard Hill on TalkSport at 9:10pm last night. It was also on Five Live as is mentioned further down the board if you can take the time to read it.

Stop the Rumours at 09:07:23 Friday April 11 2003
apart from saying last night that a former favourite will be returning to the club the announcement has not yet been made as to who (yes probably Richard Hill) and in what capapcity. So all those posts below are just speculative shite. The club will make an announcement this morning

Anon at 08:42:12 Friday April 11 2003
Comparing Wilkinson to Bobby Robson, stunning stuff Ant. Keep up the good work!!

Paul at 23:35:04 Thursday April 10 2003
I like Hill coming back, awesome... but Wilkinson has gotta go... useless is the best way to describe teams he has put out!

Anthony Collett at 23:20:12 Thursday April 10 2003
No Half way house - Didnt Ellis sack Broadhurst and bring in Fenwick, that was a big success. We must give the new regime a chance, Hill is an experienced No.2 / Assistant and is well respected by cobbs fans and others within the game. Wilkinson was doing a good job until he had to be away from the club. Stamp and Dudfield apart. How old is Bobby Robson? admittedly he has a slightly better managerial record than Wilko. I always wanted a hair cut like my idol Richard Hill, now I have one.

MCHammer at 23:03:03 Thursday April 10 2003
I see idiots frequent this b