Cobblers Comments
August 2000
Cobblers Comments
NSB at 20:56:39 Thursday August 31 2000
how this will affect small clubs i dont know, but seeing as we are a MASSIVE CLUB we dont have to worry do we? anyway, i think that it could allow promising youngsters to be snapped up by big clubs leaving the small club without a leg to stand on, which could mean that it wont apply to under 24 yr old players just like the bosman ruling doesnt.......
NSB at 20:53:8 Thursday August 31 2000
re: the transfer fee thingy, i beleive the proposals are, the players remaining wages x2 or x3 or something, so that reasonable fees like 5-6m remain but ridiculous 37m transfers will be impossible, for example i think beckham will be worth 7.5 million under the new system, rather than 75m
Hartwell at 20:18:6 Thursday August 31 2000
Big Roy - there wasn't any notice on the car park I use - the top one beside the Old Orleans (unless someone had ripped it off! - probable!). I totally agree with you ref the current and future car parking prospects at Sixfields. When the Saints are at home it also further worsens the situation. Why the two clubs cannot get together and agree to at least stagger ko times beats me. The traffic problems in the St James area are chronic when both have been at home together. Now there's something useful and positive the police could do something about....
MartinW at 20:14:15 Thursday August 31 2000
Yes, Northampton Town...it's a bit of an obsession.
Hey that would be a good logo if the club advertised on telly. By the way. A task. I want to know who the man is inside the dragon. What does he look like. What does he do for a living? Does anyone know? And how come he can't kick a ball.
Hartwell at 20:10:45 Thursday August 31 2000
MartinW - interesting note on Jamie and the probable abolition of the transfer system. As you say, if he keeps banging them in then other clubs are bound to sit up and take note. Always has been thus. I've just been rteading a book on the finances of football. Might sound dull but in fact it's very enlightening. I've just read the chapter on transfer fees, which tends to blow away the long-held belief that transfers are the life-blood of smaller clubs. In fact the number of transfers for significant amounts of money from one year to the next represents a very small percentage of most smaller club's annual turnover. This is because statistically speaking very few players are transferred from a smaller club to a larger one for substantial fees and, of course, because lightening rarely strikes twice anyway - one club is very unlikely to get more than one large transfer within a period of several years - sometimes decades. When you think about it, we are a case in point. When was it we last sold a player for big bucks (well medium-sized ones anyway)? In the past 14 years you can count them on the fingers of one hand, and when you've counted the Morleys, Hills and McGoldricks, there isn't too much else. To that extent we perhaps shouldn't worry opver-much about that aspect of the transfer situation. And, under EC Employment Legislation, while transfers as such may go, a club wanting to buy a player will have to reinburse his present club for all his outstanding wages under his contract. So if a player wanted to move from Club A to Club B and he had two years of his contract to go, Club B would have to pay club A all his outstanding wages. So, in effect, there would be some compensation. I know there's a lot of emotion and hot air being generated right now about this and ther prophets of doom are out in numbers once again. But the reality is not so gloomy as they would have us believe. Of course there are some other aspects of the changes which might cause problems - whether it's worthwhile clubs bringing on youngsters etc. But it won't be the end of football as we know it, even though some gloom merchants are making out.
NSB at 20:2:27 Thursday August 31 2000
im not foul mouthed all the time, its just that i get very excited supporting a "massive club" like the cobblers!
NSB at 20:1:7 Thursday August 31 2000
see martinW i am usefull for some things at least! even if i am just a foul mouthed yob!
Phil Baron at 19:58:41 Thursday August 31 2000
TCMP I agree 100% what youhave said BUT something will have to be done soon because I think a large number of supporters do turn up on the "spur of the moment" Why if they bring ID with an NORTHAMPTON address on it why should they not be sold a ticket? Surely away fans will not go to all that trouble to get in will they? That should be the easiest way and all you would have to do is put a notice in the Chronic Echo or the program for the next month or so? I know a few people who go if they finish work early but would not dream of buying a ticket in advance for fear of getting caught in traffic etc.Anyway TCMP see you Saturday week!!!!
MartinW at 19:52:55 Thursday August 31 2000
nsb, thanks for pointing that out. Marco Gabbiadini's smart first goal in a Cobblers shirt should be read to download by 7.30pm. I thought I had uploaded it, but it was the realplayer version.
MartinW at 19:34:6 Thursday August 31 2000
Firstly Cobblers in the West, I'm just being realistic. In the modern game, class players in the lower leagues move on if bigger clubs want them. The days when players began and ended their careers at one club are over. If Jamie knocks them in for us, there are bound to be people interested in getting him. And if that happens we will hopefully loads of money for him that can be regenerated to improve the ground and the playing staff even further. The only problem is that with FIFA admitting that the transfer fee system is wrong and that players should be able to swap clubs like you and I change companies in our jobs, we may not reap any money from giving good players a platform, except from the gate receipts. Basically under European law, players should be able to go to whatever club they want, if they want them, without a fee. And that IS a worry. If the transfer fee system goes, it will badly effect small clubs like ours, where gate receipts are limited to the size of the ground.
NSB, I will check on the gabby goal mpeg, but I thought I uploaded it. And in a wanton plug, can I say if anyone else wants to see the goals of the current season in mpeg form or on Real Player it is now completely updated (and will be throughout the season) on www.martinwilliams.free-online.co.uk
Pickled Judge at 19:24:32 Thursday August 31 2000
2000. September. The tumbling price of footy-sloggers is raising concern in stadia worldbound. Roy Keane is the latest. He signs for Crewe alexandra for just £13000.00 and is immediately dumped in the subs. Even Sammy Hypia is not exempt. He is chased by both Colchester United and Hartlepool F.C. but settles for £9500.00 to go on the books of Cardiff City. The Premier League is in ruins. Not one of the original members has survived. In Manchester a union of the two original sides has resulted in the inauguration of Salford Athletico 2000 but the debt from the original teams means that the side is struggling to find a ground. Earnest times indeed.
Big Roy at 19:8:0 Thursday August 31 2000
...and what if the much debated stadium expansion eventually happens?
Big Roy at 18:35:37 Thursday August 31 2000
To be fair, signs were hung on the entrances to the car parks for all to see on arrival (albeit rather small ones). However, I think the parking problems can only get worse. In the last two years the bowling alley and "Old Orleans" have already eaten into the available spaces and how long will it be before the rubbish tip is relocated and the whole frontage developed along to join up with the block where Halfords are? I would also imagine the existing north (gravel) park is prime land for further development of plastic theme bars/restaurants and the like. Does anyone close to the council know if there is a specification that a certain number of spaces must be available on the Sixfields site to cater for matchday parking? I bet the figure would be well below that needed for a capacity crowd. The cinema, restaurants and Sainsbury's are already banning supporter's cars and JJB, Boots etc. are also getting more particular. The future is not good methinks.
Carl at 18:19:32 Thursday August 31 2000
NSB, maybe you should change where you park, although I am not going to tell you where we park, we are always away listening to the 5 o'clock sports report, with no trouble at all, and we always watch the end of the game, and always from our seats.
G at 17:51:16 Thursday August 31 2000
At away games, what about playing the side that won at the end of last season - from Carlisle onwards? They got the goals and defended their lead.
NSB at 17:1:0 Thursday August 31 2000
Dyl: i usually legi it straight out of the stadium, but on saturday that was rather pointless as i still had to wait
Danny at 16:58:22 Thursday August 31 2000
Its not just the Reading game where ticketless away fans have been let in, its been the same with Manchester City, Millwall, Stoke etc. In some cases MORE FANS than the capacity in the South Stand/overflow have been allowed in meaning that fans are sitting on the steps of the gangways (god forbid if we did that in the North Stand, Brutus would be in there like a shot!!!) and fans congregating in the different corners between the south and east/west stands. This MUST be against all Stadium safety laws, and who will get blamed if theres an incident..... The Police? Baxter & Platts? No...... it'll be the Cobblers!!!!
Dyl at 16:32:9 Thursday August 31 2000
In my experience, getting away from Sixfields less than 45 minutes after the end of a match is a pretty good achievement.
NSB at 16:28:47 Thursday August 31 2000
you said it! I was waiting for forty five minutes in that bloody car park! if the police had told us they were going to make me wait that long i would have bloody well gone to McDonalds or something, rather than wait in the bloody car!
Hartwell at 15:6:3 Thursday August 31 2000
Thanks, TCMP, for the background info on stadium management/police/ticketing. I totally agree that the ticketing and general policing policies must be reviewed. Last Saturday brought that very clearly into focus. The stadium surrounds were over-policed, especially as you say the decision to employ police horses and dogs. The fiasco over home ticketing arrangements is now well documented. To cap it all the police also decided, for reasons best known to themselves, to insist half the exit gates were kept locked, resulting in even greater than usual delays and frayed tempters among the thousands trying to get out. (I gather from one gate stewards it was a police decision). The car parking situation is also exacerbated by Saints fans using Sixfields top parks. As far as I am aware neither the police nor the club made any attempts to either inform us, the paying public, they were keeping gates closed, much less give us reasons. Wouldn't it at least have been possible to make PA announcements on the day ? This combination of seemingly strange decisions and lack of information about them, is frustrating and annoying fans. As TCMP says, a solution has got to be found and the police must remember they are public servants, paid to protect us as we go about our legitimate business. Their remit is not to organise events. It's to police them.
PATTCOBB at 13:1:29 Thursday August 31 2000
Van driver from Finedon quoting from Brian Talbot- Evening Telegraph(the vilage newsletter for east northants).We're not interested in the AWS Cup this season."Well let's hope we draw them in our group or whatever format it is this year,then he definitly won't be interested in it after we knock them out.
ErkanKanmaz at 12:38:35 Thursday August 31 2000
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Sid at 11:14:13 Thursday August 31 2000
I think Gomez has a good point. A lot of people hate to the attendance dwindle, especially at an All Ticket match. The attendance at the Reading game was quite poor from a home fans point of view. Something does need to be done - A membership scheme would allow those fans who don't have a season ticket to obtain seats on the day without being turned away. Surely if you have your name on the database, and you have bought tickets on more than one occasion - you can be classed as a home fan! I feel the Club are losing out on important revenue by being too cautious, which could be gained with using a little bit of common sense. with the amount of All ticket games this season, they could be losing upto 1000 seats worth of revenue each game at worst. Perhap keeping the ticket office open until 12:30pm on the Saturday may go towards helping to put another couple of hundred bums on seats?
nsb at 11:11:57 Thursday August 31 2000
martin w: not that i want to complain but the MPEG of gabby's goal doesnt appear to work, has something gone wrong or have you not gotten round to uploading it yet?
NSB at 11:7:4 Thursday August 31 2000
So TCMP, what youre saying is that if i claim to be an away fan i can be let in on the day? and will join the away fans in the east stand? if this is the case WHY are home supporters locked out? surely there are double standards being set here?!?
PATTCOBB at 8:42:41 Thursday August 31 2000
APOLOGY TO MARTIN W SHOCK!!!!!! From one cobbler to another we're here to support the team etc etc.Last posting was superb THE FACT IS WE DO HAVE A DECENT TEAM ALBEIT A RATHER SMALL SQUAD AND I BELIEVE ANYTHING BELOW HALF WAY IN THE LEAGUE WOULD BE VIEWED AS A DISAPOINTMENT.Good luck on all-ticket stuff to TCMP LETS READ THE REASONS HERE...........
Cobbler in the West at 7:38:9 Thursday August 31 2000
MartinW - why mention selling our best players when they are just beginning their careers at the club? Where's the sense in that?
Deepcut Cobbler at 6:16:49 Thursday August 31 2000
Not trying to incite or invite trouble but TCMP has suggested the way to gain access to the ground on the day without a ticket. Say you are an away fan and you will be let into the east stand. Where does the stance on ticketing now fall down? Away fans are better inside than out, but is the same not to be said of home fans, especially for the revenue? Next time you are ticketless, state that you are an away and see the game in the East Stand!! SOLUTION...All ticket for away fans and purchases in the home areas by those with either booking numbers or members of the free membership scheme. Whatever, something has to be done...COME ON YOU COBBLERS!!!
Tell Me What You're Thinking at 23:41:15 Wednesday August 30 2000
. . . !
My old mans a Cobbler. at 23:33:10 Wednesday August 30 2000
Reading between the lines,I wonder if TCMP's reference to the crowds needing to be 6000 plus is in connection with pressure being kept on the powers that be to expand the ground?Good point earlier from Marriott,I had forgotten about Roy Hunters long throw,it would be good to see howard on the end of them.
Gormless Gomez at 23:20:3 Wednesday August 30 2000
Lets hope this is an issue we can take up with the council/police. I'm sure they cannot justify the obvious loss of earnings from all ticket games when bearing in mind the trouble-free encounters at Sixfields since its opening. Lets start with the Tuesday night ALL TICKET game with Stoke in NOVEMBER. Now this is madness!!! All ticket for away fans, of course, but not home fans. How about introducing a free membership scheme for home fans on the Sixfields database to obtain tickets on matchdays? Just a thought.
Ray at 22:14:12 Wednesday August 30 2000
Only if your crap like Cardiff and Scunthorpe - which we aint!
MartinW at 21:39:27 Wednesday August 30 2000
Totally concur with TCMP. These are exciting times for the Cobblers. And the thing with Kevin Wilson is that he has shown that if something doesn't work, he has the flexibility to try something else. If that means bringing in fresh blood, so be it. I am sure he had a big part in Jamie Forrester's decision to come to Sixfields, because he exudes the kind of enthusiasm and passion that players and fans want to see. Most fans do not mind their team losing, if they play with passion, pride and commitment. And yes we have seen some of that lacking in a couple of away performances. But if it was not happening at home, then we should be worried. The fact is Hargreaves and Forrester are going to be worth a lot of money if we sell them. They both look like players who are looking to go places. And that's what we need. Gabby has been there, done that, bought the t-shirt. And he looks more and more like being the support man for Forrester whose pace and quickness of thought is startling. THAT goal against Brentford (a long shot) and his quickness in the box to create room for a strike to score against Reading AND the fact he'll chase lost causes and challenge for headers he has no right to win, shows that we have a little gem. He's worth the admission price on his own. But we also have the deft skills of Gabby, the extrovert but effective keeping of Keith Welch, the all action Hargreaves, the mobility of Savvo the coming of age of Hopey to get excited about. We have the talent. We don't have the squad numbers. Which is why I have always said, let's not let our expectations get too high. If we stay up it will be an achievement. Then we can consolidate on that next season. It's far too easy to get relegated from this division, ask Cardiff and Scunthorpe.
TCMP at 21:25:31 Wednesday August 30 2000
NSB & Phil, At Sixfields, the arrangements are discussed between the stadium safety officer (on behalf of the Baxter & Platts) and the police. The bill is picked up mostly by the Borough Council who also pay for Stewarding etc. However the Football club do pay a percentage of Police costs for high category games, but it is the council which takes the biggest hit. As with every other service catering, pitch, electricity etc the council foots the bill initially and then collects all the gate money through the management company (Baxter and Platts) They then take a slice of the take (20%) to cover thier costs and forward the remainder to the club (80%) This is why in the past the council have advanced (not loaned) money to the club as it usually takes 10 days to recieve monies after a game and there are always some difficulties around the season ticket/ Holiday period. Anyway the issue is less about cost and more about what is neccasary and most helpful in ensuring safety whilst at the same time making it easier for the casual fan to attend games. At the Reading fixture we turned away a lot of on the day supporters, some of whom had been planning to play cricket that afternoon until they were rained off. Now if they had of said they were Reading supporters, and gone in the East Stand and trouble had ensued we would still have been up the swannie. So we need to rethink and quick or else the club will money and the segregation policy will fail. We also want to see 6000+ crowds at every game and can only achieve that if we build on our average, TCMP
Phil Baron at 21:4:32 Wednesday August 30 2000
TCMP is the Nationwide league like the Premiership where the club pay for ALL Police? If so they must research the game to know the number of away fans etc coming? Also who clears up all the horse *%&$ left outside the Tull memorial!!!!
NSB at 20:48:43 Wednesday August 30 2000
The MP has spoken! TCMP, dont the club have to pay for police presence? in which case we should tell them, if you wanna bring horses and giraffes or whatever then go ahead, but dont go telling us when and where were allowed to sell tickets.........
treenie at 20:26:29 Wednesday August 30 2000
OI!!!! When are the squad pictures going to be put on the official site!!!!!!
TCMP at 20:4:14 Wednesday August 30 2000
Just a quick posting to assure those concerned about the all ticket issue that I will be raising the matter at the Board meeting tommorrow night. It is not the clubs fault but we must try and force a meeting between the Police and the stadium management/council to find a compromise. As to the Reading game I felt the level of policing was much too high. Although I realise that some clubs have a reputation, I feel that the presence of Horses, Dogs etc can sometimes fuel a bad atmosphere not help it. I also feel that a static 1000/1200 away fans max figure does not warrent such a wide variation of tactics, fences, cordoned off areas etc. As far as ticketing is concerned we have to find a way of matchday ticketing which works for the casual home fan, after all I understand that some ticketless Reading fans found themselves allowed access to the east stand overflow. I dont have all the answers but I will raise the questions and try to find a way forward. Nice to see my gutless friend (anon) back again with his uneducated and pointless digs. The trust is going from strength to strength, with an seasons programme of open forums soon to be announced, and a new newsletter on the stocks. 12 new members elected on the exec, and over 20 new members signing up on Monday alone. So watch this space. Finally I just wanted to comment on the football, I know we all want to win every match, and that it is disapointing when we fail to play to our potential, but my own view is that we are still to reach our summit with new players still working out there roles.And when we get there god help the rest of the division. There are so many players in the improving/coming of age category, and that must bide well for the future.And at last we are starting to see some quality youth players coming through the ranks, and!! being given a chance. I also believe that in Kev we have one of the most exciting and fresh thinking managers in the league, and I for one am enjoying every minute of what I believe is the start of something very good indeed. So be patient, the best is yet to come. cheers Tony
Gormless Gomez at 19:46:34 Wednesday August 30 2000
Regarding the 'all ticket game' debate, why should the police have the power to MAKE the club declare games all ticket? As far as I was aware, the club pays good money to have a police presence at games. Why should the police get an easy life at the expense of much needed funds for the Cobblers? What's the worst case scenario - a few away fans get tickets for the home end and have to be ejected. So what?!?! Get the idle sods doing some work!
MartinW at 19:39:26 Wednesday August 30 2000
NSB, glad the MPEGS are of use because they are a bugger to upload. But if there is a demand, which it seems there is, then I'm happy to oblige. Remember our purpose on earth is to convert the world to the gospel according to Cobblers. Amen.
MartinW at 19:34:58 Wednesday August 30 2000
PATTCOBB, please try not to be so personal in your comments. You don't know me or how I live my life.
Marriott at 19:7:48 Wednesday August 30 2000
Roy Hunter - Hunter has got every attribute a midfielder outside the premiership needs, ok, he's not the quickest of players, but he's definately not the slowest either. He can pass a ball better than most of our players and he has the commitment that the fans show!
I think the play-off semi's in '97 showed that, he was such a good player then and he will eb again too, he was rushed back into the side on both occasions from coming back from injury, he will soon be back in action and showing us boys that he can be our playmaker as well as our tough tackler.
He is also a midfielder with an eye for goal (anyone remember his fantastic strike vs Gillingham, or his FA cup winner in the replay Vs Exeter?)
His long throws and set-pieces are an asset too and that means we can have Stevie Howard in the box too hussle and bustle too!)
Sixfields Fuhrer at 18:0:47 Wednesday August 30 2000
PATTCOBB: Those are not 'caravans' they are 'High-Profile Logistical Secure-Entry Distribution Plants'.I would kindly request you refer to them as such in future.
NSB at 17:36:14 Wednesday August 30 2000
Martin W....... your new MPEGS are fantastic! Im at the office right now and the LAN we have here means that our internet connection is MEGAFAST! and the clips take all of 30 seconds to load! compared to the half hour it takes me at home! WAHEY! Now i can show all the boring Man utd fans in the office why i support a "crap" club!!!!
Ray at 17:27:23 Wednesday August 30 2000
The address of the club is secretary@ntfc.co.uk....but bear in mind its not their decision.
Luton Tickets at 17:26:11 Wednesday August 30 2000
I was told that Season Ticket holders had until Friday to get there tickets, which may be true, but the club basically said they can get as many as they want - or should I say the young person I spoke to.
PATTCOBB at 16:58:55 Wednesday August 30 2000
Ray please help.......The Stoke game has been moved to Tue 7 November 7;45pm K.O.,BUT it is still all-ticket.Have you or anybody out there any suggests to whom I may write/email in order to put over some valid points and get the official reasons as to why this and the other games were made all-ticket becuase as yet I haven't heard a decent argument on the subject.Does the club know that this is a serious dent to it's financial future.If you think about it a shop can only make money if it is actually open,the longer it stays open the more potential customers it can have.The same applies to NTFC,if tickets are on sale there is a chance that they may be sold.If there are no tickets on sale then they definitely won't be sold,so any casual supporters go away empty handed and so does their entrance fee.5728 turned out for the Reading game,thats 3500 season ticket holders,1300 from Reading,that leaves 1200 approx supporters who turned up with tickets.I would suggest that this figure could be perhaps 800-1000 higher with tickets bought on the day-there always seems to be a substantial queue at the caravans whenever I pass them.Finally if 1200 is all we could muster on top of our season tickets holders perhaps the club will have to look at extending the capacity for away fans,by giving even more home areas to them for some games!!
Marco at 16:19:21 Wednesday August 30 2000
Reserves won 1-0 at Leyton Orient this afternoon
Cobbler in the West at 15:31:28 Wednesday August 30 2000
I agree Hartwell (again!). I have no inside info but what what Kevin Wilson has said in the press Hunter has a mental battle to win. 3 serious injuries within 2 years has obviously left its mark and when he played last season he was nowhere near his best. If he is not back soon then I reckon KW will have to go into the market. I see that Clare is on the subs bench at Grimsby and it may be that he does not feature in Lawrence's plans who was quoted this morning as saying that he is on the search for a goal scorer. Perhaps an opportunity for the Cobblers if the price was right although I am not sure that with the signings of Forrester & Gabbiadini that this is realistic. Our weaknesses seem to lie elsewhere.
Marco at 15:20:50 Wednesday August 30 2000
From what I've heard Hartwell, you're not far wrong. I doubt that the club actually vets the paper's material but I think they are pretty much in each other's pockets. It's a difficult thing with local papers, I know that Gillingham have banned their local for criticising the club and, on a different scale, Alex Ferguson is alway banning press people if they say anything he doesn't like. it would be very difficult for the Chron to report if they were kept out of games and not allowed to do interviews. But at the same point, there's no point Cobblers fans buying the paper if it's just a re-hashed version of the programme or the club's PR tool.
Hartwell at 14:22:57 Wednesday August 30 2000
Marco - thanks for the further background info on Andy. We use the same gym and we often chatted, although I haven't seen him so far this season. I gather he was in the press box on Sat, presumably just as a spectator. I can assure MartinW the facts are essentially correct. My source of information comes from within the paper. I would agree with Cobbler in the West that Hunter does give us more in midfield, both as a ball winner, distributor and for his overall tireless workrate. But from what I hear he is still having problems regaining his fitness. As he relies heavily on his stamina, anything but a fully fit Hunter is well below par as we saw last season. I am just keeping my fingers crossed he will come back and this time manage to stay free of further injuries. However this must be a make or break season for him. A final little bit of insider gossip - I hear someone from Wellingborough is pumping a lot of money into the club. Does anyone know any more about this and if so who it might be ? (I wonder whether this is not the old Stephen Griggs urgan legend in another form?!!).
PATTCOBB at 13:0:41 Wednesday August 30 2000
A quote from Martin W.........."Success this season is to avoid relegation"How many of us really believe that!Especially after the signings we made at great cost(to Lynne Wilson or whoever!)I think that is a rather negative attitude.Incidently Martin why have a website of your own,when you seem to monopolise the evening sessions on this one........you really should get out more.ANYWAY UTC FTP & FCU & FLDFC & FCOL U etc etc etc
Cobbler in the West at 11:48:39 Wednesday August 30 2000
Pattcobb - I have to disagree. Hunter has exactly those qualities I mentioned and , yes, a good work rate.
PATTCOBB at 10:55:18 Wednesday August 30 2000
JUST A QUICK OBSERVATION FOR cobbler in the west..............Don;t get me wrong i am a big fan of Hunter but,"vision and ability to make penetrative passes" are not Roy's attributes.Effoert, workrate etc are.Therefore are we lacking the creativaty in midfield,or could this come from Hunt or Savage if that role was given to them.
Cobbler in the West at 10:33:52 Wednesday August 30 2000
Hartwell has a point about using the width of the pitch to get quality balls into Marco and Jamie. I think the problem with Hodge is that he is seen as something of a luxury and so is rarely played. This was true of his time at Gillingham where he was almost always a substitute only and history is repeating itself at Northampton. At the moment the signing of Hodge seems strange, very much a speactators' favourite but unlikely to be a regular. It is Savage or Hodge and because Savage covers more ground and defends better he will get the nod most of the time. I think we miss a fit and in form Hunter badly. His vision and ability to make penetrating passes is something the forwards would lap up. But away from Sixfields we are struggling and tend to resort to hoofing the ball up the pitch which is not going to win us many points.
marco at 9:58:33 Wednesday August 30 2000
Response to Hartwell at 16:18:41 Tuesday. DOn't know whether this has already been said but Andy Roberts was apparently relieved of his duties at the Chron after a long-running dispute over reporting of the atkins saga. Seems that he was a lot more honest about what was going on than atkins liked and the powers that be at the paper backed atkins over andy. So when the summer came around he was replaced. Seems pretty pointless having a local paper that just prints what the club wants. Mind you did anyone read the piece last week which was responding to stonhill's programme notes on the reserves fiasco. Stonhill blamed the local press for fuelling the fire on the story but the Chron was pretty scathing of stonhill's handling of the affair and pointed out that it was the club that had put out press releases announcing that the games were closed. But let's not go over that old ground again...
Anon at 9:47:54 Wednesday August 30 2000
Gooner tell someone who cares
Message for NSB at 9:9:37 Wednesday August 30 2000
Who the f**k do you think you are slagging off Arsene Wenger, what as Arsene Wenger or Arsenal got to do with you. I am an avid Arsenal fan, who is waiting for a season ticket there. So I watch cobblers in the interim, quite reguarly home & away. But because I class Arsenal as my "number 1" team, I will not comment on cobblers here, as most people hold them close to there heart like I do Arsenal. Also, I would happily have left an email address and not gone anon, but I am on a customers PC!! Anyway, goodluck to cobbs, but even more to the mighty Gooners.
Miller at 0:26:59 Wednesday August 30 2000
I would just like to say, for what it's worth, that I have the 'Queens Of The Stone Age' album, and I agree with Martin W, the guitar riff in the first track is prime Pixies.
MartinW at 23:52:46 Tuesday August 29 2000
Actually, over the next half hour I will be uploading mpegs of goals to download and it's big screen stuff. The quality isn't bad either. It's on www.martinwilliams.free-online.co.uk
Any requests for mpegs will be dealt with as soon as I can.
MartinW at 23:48:49 Tuesday August 29 2000
Andy, actually I have just persisted and it seems to be working now. It seems like with all things with computers you just have to be patient. But at least now I can get MPEGS on for those that want it, but we'll see how big the files are first!
Andy at 23:40:4 Tuesday August 29 2000
MartinW, I know as little as anyone about this sort of stuff. But I do know you can buy software to convert these formats, and I suspect when you try to do it for free you're bound to get problems. Good luck anyway. (ps get a mac)
DavCobbler at 23:10:21 Tuesday August 29 2000
Hey PATTCOBB...you missed absolutely F*** ALL on Monday mate. What a wasted journey if ever there was one !!! Looking forward to the next few games....need to sort Wee Pattcobb out for £ulham though ok !!
MartinW at 22:50:54 Tuesday August 29 2000
Andy, thanks for the advice. Funnily enough I have got a piece of software from the first site you mentioned, but keep getting problems in using it. My avis are either less than 144 pixels high or if that's rectified something else is wrong and it gets quite boring. As is this message. Sorry.
MartinW at 22:48:50 Tuesday August 29 2000
Simon S, you need to get yourself the software Real Producer Plus G2 from the Real site. You can then convert most audio file formats into Real files - that are tiny in comparison to the original, which is why they are so popular with people who want multimedia on their site. The only thing is your supposed to put the files on Real Server and I still cannot work out how to use it so that those clicking on Real file will get an almost immediate image/sound/
Simon Sturgess at 22:32:59 Tuesday August 29 2000
Martin W: how do u make songs in real audio format????
Andy at 22:22:47 Tuesday August 29 2000
martinW, try www.mnsi.net/~jschlic1/. Or driverguide.com is great for all sorts of stuff.
Deepcut Cobbler at 22:20:27 Tuesday August 29 2000
MartinW, Thanks for the reassurance that my machine is not up the spout. I am not the answer for the technical aspects either. i only point and hope things appear!! Joining the slagging off debate, I believe that your comments are valid and give one view of matches or situations that some of us cannot (physically) see for ourselves. balanced counter arguments without the swearing or out and out slagging would give us less of a one sided view but it appears that your detractors are less able. Keep up the good work, both with the videos and your views. From an exile who wishes he was much closer to Sixfields, but only for the football. COME ON YOU COBBLERS!!!!
MartinW at 22:15:35 Tuesday August 29 2000
Hartwell, I'm not taking sides here, but what you are saying, if it is wrong, is defamatory, as it could be construed as damaging to his reputation. But if it is true... it ain't half interesting.
MartinW at 22:10:25 Tuesday August 29 2000
Deepcut, there is no sound, so if you're not getting any, I'm not surprised. There's no point and it adds to the download time. Hopefully things will improve. But I still cannot work out how to turn my avis into mpegs. So if anyone has any ideas, please let me know.
Andy at 22:4:40 Tuesday August 29 2000
Using the theory that drawn games means points go missing, tonights results went ok for The Cobbllers, with only poor old Oxford losing yet again. It wasn't that long ago when that cup game against Oxford was virtually a glamour tie for us. How times change.
NSB at 21:55:36 Tuesday August 29 2000
Foul mouthed yob....... why thank you! Im so chuffed that im finally worthy of abuse from some git who has nothing else to do but slag other people off! I feel like part of the Martin W club!
Deepcut Cobbler at 21:41:56 Tuesday August 29 2000
MartinW, Excellent video once again, but should I be getting sound? COME ON YOU COBBLERS!!!!
MartinW at 21:29:54 Tuesday August 29 2000
Nsb, thanks for your kinds words, it's nice to hear those like yourself who appreciate what I'm trying to do. Anyway I don't want to talk about our defeat. Instead can I change the subject and say that if anyone is interested in a tip for coolest band for thefuture check out Queens of the Stone Age. The latest album Restricted.. is the best rock album of the year so far. And the latest single The Lost Art of Keeping A Secret HAS to be heard by anyone who has ever thrilled to the likes of Nirvana and The Pixies. Not that they can be compared to either. Oh and if you want to see and hear the video for that single, you can on my site. That wasn't meant to be a plug, really. It's just I am listening to the album while I am writing this and doing other stuff that's of no interest. If your a rock fan and you buy no other album this year, buy Restricted.
On Cobblers matters, remember folks, success this season is to avoid relegation. It's not going to be easy. We are in a tougher division. That doesn't mean we should not be disappointed when they lose and in the manner of it and comment on the lack of passion, but hope that Willo will ensure that we bounce back for the next game.
If anything the Bury game shows what a great player Chris Hargreaves is. Told you so (neh neh neh neh neh)
Andy at 21:16:26 Tuesday August 29 2000
Which 'live' score update service is the quickest and most detailed? I use the skysports one, but I'm sure there must be better ones around.
NSB - nothing but a foul mouthed yob at 20:45:3 Tuesday August 29 2000
if you can read his/her foul mouth crap then you are as thick as he/she obviously is, go and support p..h you deserve each other.
MR VERY HAPPY at 20:26:26 Tuesday August 29 2000
For the sad man who says Parrish was crap did you see goals on sunday on sky? No I doubt it he scored the goal of the week in Division 3 a 40 yard chip over the keeper.Also Carlo is playing well It is a pity he never made a partnership with Forrester I think it would of made a good strike force.
George - Bucks No1 Cobbler at 20:18:53 Tuesday August 29 2000
Thanx Pickled Judge - somebody has actually replied to one of my messages - today I feel like I man (not literally of course coz Im straight). and maybe I shall put some more comments of here and maybe just maybe one of my great poems!!!! See you all at Luton
nsb at 19:42:11 Tuesday August 29 2000
regarding atkins interview with the mail or whatever: i whole heartedly agree with what he sais about arsene wenger, i think that wenger is nothing but a scumbag and has the tactical knowledge of barry fry, and i also think that the circumstances surrounding his departure were rather suspect, taking into consideration that TCMP was at wesminster and stonhill was apparently on a golfing holiday?!? but it appears that all newspapers reckon we betrayed atkins whatever he tells them, i just think that our performances on the pitch since kev took over should send a clear enough message...... it certainly seems that the media are full of praise for us following the wins over fulham and reading, they claimed we were all over them! anyway, i think atkins comments regarding our great club are bang out of order and he has destroyed whatever respect i still had for him, put simply: F**K OFF ATKINS!
nsb at 19:33:46 Tuesday August 29 2000
piss off fat baz!
nsb at 19:32:49 Tuesday August 29 2000
hey Martin W the reading clips are looking a lot better than previous...... keep up the good work!
Anon at 19:10:57 Tuesday August 29 2000
Pickled Judge
Parrish was and still is crap also maddison is as well.
The sit back and wait is called Counter attacking the only thing is that Northampton don't do it they just sit back and the midfield can't go forward.
Mr Posh at 19:4:31 Tuesday August 29 2000
Good call Barry!
Pickled Judge at 18:45:19 Tuesday August 29 2000
George: I agree that we seem to resort to punting skywards when we run out of ideas. Even in the games we've played well we seem to sit back instead of push forward at times. Attack is often the best form of defence especially when we unsettle sides playing this way. Not sure about Maddison though... We need Hunter back and I don't personally think we should have let Parrisg go 'cos he was a fighter and that is what we need sometimes.
Barry Fry at 18:40:11 Tuesday August 29 2000
I told the rozzers to make as many as possible all-ticket so that you bastard cobblers get stuffed in the pocket as well as on the park. You are a bunch of tossers and you don't even deserve that poxy hut you call a stadium. Stuff that in your pipe.
George - Bucks No1 Cobbler at 18:27:38 Tuesday August 29 2000
Well as no-one made ANY comment on my idea about bringing Lee Maddison back (which I thought was a good idea)I decieded to give my thoughts.... Well said Hartwell, we do have a good squad, but as dont seem to have the depth in midfield (esp without hunter and savvo) If were not careful we be back to the Atko hoof it up -(Spedding take note) and hope. We need some depth in midfield - and sorry, but Sturridge and Crowe can stay where they are. Anyone else agree, or I am just writing this again with no comments?
pattcobbs secretary at 17:10:18 Tuesday August 29 2000
I understand that it is not NTFC's decision these all-ticket games.BUT are they putting enough pressure on the NORTHANTS POLICE.Surely there is enough evidence to say that they are being over-cautious!!!!!!
NANNY STATE at 17:7:37 Tuesday August 29 2000
IF WE SAY YOUR GAMES ARE ALL-TICKET THEN THEY WILL BE ALL-TICKET.
PATTCOBB at 17:6:2 Tuesday August 29 2000
Also Danny...........I would suggest that if a set of supporters really wanted to "infiltrate" home areas, then they would,regardless of the ticketing arrangements.Looking back at the attendances for these all-ticket matches it's about time something was done,the loss of revenue which of course must only be an estimate could be substantial.What if that loss was the difference between signing a player or not and thus affected our chances of promotion/relegation?
Danny at 16:21:37 Tuesday August 29 2000
Why don't they make the games all ticket for away fans then give Northampton fans until 12pm Saturday to get a ticket and only give them to people with Northamptonshire addresses?
Hartwell at 16:18:41 Tuesday August 29 2000
I've been away and may have missed the gossip. But does anyone have the low-down on why Andy Roberts was relieved of the job of reporting the Cobblers in the Chronic ? A very good source told me on Sat he had ruffled feathers at the club and that now the club was vetting the paper's copy before is appears. Can this be true ? I don't often buy the paper these days but did happen to read the match report today - Willo was not a happy bunny at the end of the game and he has every reason to feel aggrieved. The report says Marco didn't have a very good game - only six out of ten. But, again, it appears the real problem is lack of support. He is a proven goalscorer but will struggle for goals here unless or until we improve our supply routes to him. I recall Carlo hitting the same problems and, totally predicatably, Atkins made him the scapegoat, when it was patently obvious to everyone he was having to scratch round for the ball, rather than being fed. I guess no Hargreaves and Savage (for the majority of the game)on Sat didn't help. I still think Willo is going to have to consider changing things around a bit and perhaps sacrifice one of his midfield players for Hodge in the hope he can provide some width. We have got the fundamentals right and we have a good squad of players. It's the system that, in my humble opinion, need some fine tuning. I think headcs go down away from home due to frustration - when we get the ball we have no outlets for it and consequently we either have to hoof it or make a pass to a tightly marked player.
Anon at 16:7:10 Tuesday August 29 2000
dick
OOOOps! at 15:21:18 Tuesday August 29 2000
Not saying........ at 14:41:56 Tuesday August 29 2000
oooops, didn't mean to do it that many times Not saying........ at 14:41:56 Tuesday August 29 2000
oooops, didn't mean to do it that many times Not saying........ at 14:41:56 Tuesday August 29 2000
oooops, didn't mean to do it that many times Not saying........ at 14:41:56 Tuesday August 29 2000
oooops, didn't mean to do it that many times Not saying........ at 14:41:56 Tuesday August 29 2000
oooops, didn't mean to do it that many times Not saying........ at 14:41:56 Tuesday August 29 2000
oooops, didn't mean to do it that many times Not saying........ at 14:41:56 Tuesday August 29 2000
oooops, didn't mean to do it that many times
Not saying........ at 14:41:56 Tuesday August 29 2000
oooops, didn't mean to do it that many times
PATTCOBB at 13:37:26 Tuesday August 29 2000
DAVCOBB ARE YOU THERE? "the season starts here"Due to financial constraints PATTCOBB has had a slow start -home games only BUT as from Fulham next week (after payday!)we will be off and running quickly followed by Millwall and Luton DOWN.
not saying......... at 13:34:20 Tuesday August 29 2000
I was sitting in the family stand with my uncle + mum (we were the only cobblers supporters there-the rest bury call us mad if you wish cos I think we were)so we felt isolated! But being down the other end of the ground to you other cobblers fans, in the 88th minute, we should've been given a penalty. It was a definate handball in the area! But the ref did nothing about it, he must have seen it cos it happened just infront of him! Even a few Bury fans behind us said "I'm suprised the ref didn't see that handball!" but I don't think any of you cobblers fans who were sitting down the other end could have seen it anyway! But enough moaning we lost in the end, we can't do anything about it now.
not saying......... at 13:34:17 Tuesday August 29 2000
I was sitting in the family stand with my uncle + mum (we were the only cobblers supporters there-the rest bury call us mad if you wish cos I think we were)so we felt isolated! But being down the other end of the ground to you other cobblers fans, in the 88th minute, we should've been given a penalty. It was a definate handball in the area! But the ref did nothing about it, he must have seen it cos it happened just infront of him! Even a few Bury fans behind us said "I'm suprised the ref didn't see that handball!" but I don't think any of you cobblers fans who were sitting down the other end could have seen it anyway! But enough moaning we lost in the end, we can't do anything about it now.
not saying......... at 13:32:29 Tuesday August 29 2000
I was sitting in the family stand with my uncle + mum (we were the only cobblers supporters there-the rest bury call us mad if you wish cos I think we were)so we felt isolated! But being down the other end of the ground to you other cobblers fans, in the 88th minute, we should've been given a penalty. It was a definate handball in the area! But the ref did nothing about it, he must have seen it cos it happened just infront of him! Even a few Bury fans behind us said "I'm suprised the ref didn't see that handball!" but I don't think any of you cobblers fans who were sitting down the other end could have seen it anyway! But enough moaning we lost in the end, we can't do anything about it now.
PATTCOBB at 11:19:26 Tuesday August 29 2000
Thanks NTFC & NCCC officials for the half price admission ticket v Yorkshire yesterday.It meant that I could watch good players underachieving locally-instead of travelling up to Bury and seeing the same thing for 14 quid.And while I,m at it I agree totaly with all the comments on all-ticket games,is there ANY point to them.In my humble opinion the reason for this is that the ticket office has given TOO MANY booking numbers out , and can't guarantee that people buying tickets under a booking number are bonafide COBBLERS fans.Surely making the games all ticket for away fans would be enough,with only supporters with a booking number allowed to only buy home tickets however because of the seemingly haphazard nature of dishing out these numbers(ie my Man city supporting mate 1 appearance at Sixfields has already a booking number) these people could be anybody.
Carl at 11:14:34 Tuesday August 29 2000
We were a lot worse at Wycombe.
My old mans a Cobbler. at 9:35:43 Tuesday August 29 2000
I was at yesterdays game and we were awful,I didn't get to the Wycombe game though,could somebody tell me who was at both games,were we as bad in both? We didn't seem capable of stringing more than two passes together until Savage came on,are we really that depenent on Hargreaves or was it just more likely another off day.I suppose ,after such a good performance on Saturday I was expecting a little too much yesterday.Kevs got a week now to sort things out and then a few more days before the important matter of Luton away in the league,I'm sure he will have them sorted and ready to go by then.I do wish he would bring subs on earlier when things need changing though.
Anon at 8:13:11 Tuesday August 29 2000
Seems like we were outplayed by Bury and that 1-0 flatters us. Away performances have not been good and need to improve quickly.
To Bury FC at 6:33:39 Tuesday August 29 2000
U dont scare me I know Jess Quigley and my dads a copper!!
BURY F.C. at 0:58:50 Tuesday August 29 2000
COBBLERS TOO TRUE THAT'S JUST WHAT YOU ARE YOU ARE BIZ AND YOU ARE GOING DOWN WE SHOULD HAVE HAD AT LEAST 4 BYE BYE COBBLERS
Harpenden Cobbler at 23:11:50 Monday August 28 2000
Looks as we missed Hargreaves! Stil Pish lost 2-0 to Swansea HA HA
MartinW at 22:47:20 Monday August 28 2000
Five at the back CAN work if the wing backs act as wing backs. But when we go away we seem to be far more negative than we are at home. Perhaps a more positive approach will produce results. Long balls from deep occasionally DO work if you have accurance. See Cole's goal from long ball from Beckham.
Finally, you can see how our defence dealt with the Bury goal on cobblersinvision now on martinwilliams.free-online.co.uk
Anon at 21:51:54 Monday August 28 2000
We're shit and we know we r. its about time we had some wingers on the pitch and stop playing 5 at the back. we know we r good and lets start playing good constantly and not only ever so often
Dont bring back Chipp Fatt at 21:33:48 Monday August 28 2000
Wheres Papa???
Bury was the not the same at 21:32:50 Monday August 28 2000
Where was Jess Quigley - ! kept looking over my shoulder - I was ready to give up my taxi business!!!
Am I drunk at 21:31:52 Monday August 28 2000
All I can see is spots - it must be the hour long Eastenders - am I Terry - it was more exciting in Bennydorm than Bury!
.. at 21:30:58 Monday August 28 2000
.
. at 21:30:48 Monday August 28 2000
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At least we won at Rugger at 21:30:23 Monday August 28 2000
.
Id bring back the Muggers! at 21:29:12 Monday August 28 2000
.
Bring back Graham Felton at 21:28:6 Monday August 28 2000
Is that the answer?
Bring back Frank Rankmore at 21:27:43 Monday August 28 2000
Is that the answer?
Bring back Frank Large at 21:27:19 Monday August 28 2000
Is that the answer?
Anon at 21:7:0 Monday August 28 2000
yes, hartwell, we do need wing play, i agree. i begin to wonder why we bothered to buy hodge if we don't want wingers? iof it's tactics that are stopping us going wide then they should be changed. all good teams use the width of the pitch.
Anon at 21:6:18 Monday August 28 2000
AnonII, he has put up a web page with goal and action clips from matches for those of us who are out of the country
Hartwell at 21:3:10 Monday August 28 2000
no width again! i just cannot understand why we don't use the spaces down the flanks. i don't accept that its all to do with tactics. hargreaves has shown good form since he arrived and can play midfield or wide. so why doesn't he go wide ? and why, when hendon goes forward, does he now drift into the middle so much ? marco will only score goals if he gets good service and that, in particular, includes quality crosses from the wings - not from the halfway line. players on the pitch have to use their nous and when they see play bottled up in the middle someone must take responsibility for going wide and offering themselves for a pass. we have a small but quality squad, a good manager and more potential for success than for many a year. but we have to be more positive, take opponents on down the flanks and increase the amount of good balls to marco in particular. as i said the other day jamie is so quick he can conjure chances out of thin air. marco, on the other hand, needs to be played into the frame.
Danny at 20:41:13 Monday August 28 2000
Well, that was a complete waste of time and money. After two good performances against Fulham and Reading, today we went back into Wycombe mode. We showed no passion, no effort, no willingness to win. It was only in injury time did we look like we could be bothered to play, too little too late.
Pickled Judge at 19:52:15 Monday August 28 2000
Ummm, so its going to be one of those seasons. Home form good, away boredom boredom (as the Buzzcocks used to say)!
Anon II at 19:37:30 Monday August 28 2000
So Anon what does he do? Explain yourself!
Anon at 19:15:31 Monday August 28 2000
I'm getting heartily sick of hearing people going on and on and on about MartinW. He is one fan that's all. Whatever I or anyone else may think about what he says at least he does something for some of us fans. Keep up the good work!!
The Mugger at 19:2:18 Monday August 28 2000
I bet you wished we had MUGGED Bury today! Martin W is back its all too long and predictable if you can go on that far!
ANON at 18:36:28 Monday August 28 2000
WE DID'T HAVE ONE REAL CHANCE - JURY STILL OUT ON GABBIADINI,WE HAD NO WIDTH WITHOUT HARGREAVES!
Henry Priestly at 18:31:53 Monday August 28 2000
Do you have to shout? Not much of a Cobbler either by your comments! Or are you all that way inclined in Huddersfield? Oh and I'll take mid-table obscurity now thanks.
HUDDERSFIELD COBBLER at 18:28:57 Monday August 28 2000
WHAT A PILE OF SHITE,IF CAN'T GET POINTS AGAINST TEAMS LIKE BURY YOU CAN FORGET ABOUT THE PLAY OFFS
Ralph at 18:24:12 Monday August 28 2000
Oh well not such a good day today, lost the cricket too! BTW Roy dem wern't just pies, apparently they were BALTI pies. I look forward to the pie reports.
MartinW at 18:20:39 Monday August 28 2000
Anon... Who gives a shit about the Atkins article? Obviously you.
Anon at 18:0:42 Monday August 28 2000
Go and find a door to talk to instead.
Marvin at 16:54:27 Monday August 28 2000
1-0 then. I think I'll turn myself off!
Hotel Ender at 16:49:5 Monday August 28 2000
Well I'm not even getting that, just the updates on TalkSport, can't believe the score at Griffin Park!
Big Roy at 16:46:16 Monday August 28 2000
Not despondant, just frustrated after such good home performances lately. Still, it's hard to form an opinion from the radio commentary. It's hard to even follow the game!
Hotel Ender at 16:43:32 Monday August 28 2000
We shouldn't get too despondant - don't forget Bury were two divisions above us last season
Big Roy at 16:37:58 Monday August 28 2000
It sound that way Paul. We're under a lot of pressure now.
Paul at 16:34:55 Monday August 28 2000
It looks like our away problems are still not solved then! I know I'm just an armchair fan at home here, but listening to the Radio we are totally crap compared to when I watch us at home?
Big Roy at 16:31:32 Monday August 28 2000
Bugger. Bury score.
Hotel Ender at 16:26:37 Monday August 28 2000
or even halfway!
Hotel Ender at 16:25:56 Monday August 28 2000
still 0-0 halway through 2nd half
Big Roy at 16:24:22 Monday August 28 2000
Still 0-0. My paint's drying nicely.
Hotel Ender at 16:8:43 Monday August 28 2000
at least the Scum are 2-0 down to Swansea
Big Roy at 16:1:6 Monday August 28 2000
Nice one Richard.
Big Roy at 15:58:2 Monday August 28 2000
I'm nearly asleep Ray! It sounds pretty dull.
Ray at 15:54:21 Monday August 28 2000
Im here Roy - but there again I'm also listening to the a****s on Radio Northampton.
RICHARD at 15:52:51 Monday August 28 2000
IK'CIWT: "Postcard from Sixfields". Having a lovely time. Wish you were here. The fields are green, because it's raining; the sky is blue - well, slate grey really. The boys are enjoying themselves; they've met up with some kids from Reading. They're playing footie and our lads have just gone a goal up! Some of the Reading guys are a bit rough. Young Steve is sticking up for himself though and, of course, Welchy is up to his usual tricks, taking the mick out of the Reading chaps and indulging in some spectacular acrobatics. Jamie and Gabbi are having some success up front against the bigger Reading boys, who don't seem to see the funny side of it. Oooops, that was a nasty challenge - someone ought to give that big lug a telling off! Oh, they're coming in for a break now. I'm sure a cup of tea and a biscuit will go down a treat. We're 1-0 up, apparently. Our lads were expecting a tough test, but we're playing as a team and the confidence is showing. I've just been reading an interesting magazine, full of facts and interesting local information. It's very good value for only £2. Some other kids have just been having a kick about too, but they're not a patch on our boys; couldn't hit a ball in the back of a car boot at fifty paces, most of 'em! Oh, here come the lads again. Looks like they'll be in for a hard time if the faces of the Reading contingent are anything to go by. Yep, sure enough, it's backs to the wall stuff at the moment. The lads look solid enough, just need to hold on to the ball to take the pressure off. Well I never - young Jamie has just scored another. That should put the lid on it. Now we're playing with flair and fluidity (oooh hark at me with big words!) Our boys look really chuffed and so they should be. That's it, then - the Reading chaps have had enough and gone home with their ball. A great day out for all concerned. You know, we like it here so much, I think we'll come again soon. See yah!!
Big Roy at 15:48:52 Monday August 28 2000
Half time. 0-0. I guess I'm the only one on here then. Let me know if you want updates during the second half.
Big Roy at 15:45:23 Monday August 28 2000
The home supporters are queuing for pies! Exciting stuff! 0 - 0
Big Roy at 15:40:11 Monday August 28 2000
Anybody out there want an update? Pretty uninspiring at the moment. Green had volley but that's the nearest we've come. Bury have most of the possession. Bury just hit crossbar! 0 - 0
I LOVE WAITING 50 MINUTES TO GET OUT OF A FRIGGING CAR PARK at 15:8:57 Monday August 28 2000
YEAH WHAT A LAUGH AND THAT C**T IN THA SILVER VOVLO PULL OUT IN FRONT OF ME AGAIN AND I'LL ******* KILL U
Anon at 14:21:22 Monday August 28 2000
......or I suspect the real reason - since Brian Lomax resigned.
Anon at 13:58:59 Monday August 28 2000
You are at it again MartinW. Who gives a s**t? That's the past! Let's get on and enjoy the present. We all know that there were to versions to Atkins going, the official 'mutual consent' and the unofficial 'Barry Hancock sacked him after first speaking with fellow directors'. So what? It's gone. In my opinion TCMP was out of order and did nothing to quell the situation. Interestingly enough since TCMP has been the fans rep the trust has crumbled. Make of that what you will.
MartinW at 13:26:14 Monday August 28 2000
So the GAFFE-R Ian Atkins has been at it again.
And this time the former Cobblers boss's big mouth could land him in hot water as Northampton Town are considering taking legal action against him for comments made about his departure in the Daily Express. He claims: * Board members joined in the "Atkins Out" chants after removing one of their sons from the YTS team; that a local politician was removed from the team coach for smoking and using his mobile telephone.............
In the interview headlined, "Arsene Wenger? He wouldn't have a clue at Carlisle", he adds:" What I learnt at Northampton is that a manager moves on when he's hot." An edited transcript (for legal reasons) is now reproduced on cobblersinvision (www.martinwilliams.free-online.co.uk). If anyone has an opinion, link back to this page to express it.
Finally, DarrenN, (not a personal attack) how many games did you see Richard Hope in and did you see him against his old club Darlington over Christmas? Most fans I have spoken to agree that Hopey's game has improved dramatically. Also you are mistaken about my absence from the match, as a re-read of the previous submission will show. I have commented on the match from the standpoint that I was there. That's why I said that we went from Reading to Sixfields and that the lure of the home game was too much.
Darren Nesbitt at 11:41:23 Monday August 28 2000
You do talk tosh at times MW - Richard Hope was outstanding in most of the games that he played in last season, lack of confidence pah! The only lack of confidence has been from successive managers that have failed to play what is a real talent. As for likening him to Ray Warburton apart from playing in the middle of defence that where the comparison ends. Ray was a swashbuckling leader and typical division three cenre-half. Hope has already demonstrated his ability to quietly go about his business, read the game and his distribution is different class. Bobby Moore would probably be a better comparison. And . . . how can you give a man of the amtch if you didn't see or hear the game?
Anon at 11:40:23 Monday August 28 2000
Wheres TCMP when you want him? How about some answers?
Gervase at 11:32:43 Monday August 28 2000
The all-ticket issue is a difficult one and I guess that strict guidelines already exist. The council are not going to argue the point as strongly with the police as the Club might. The bottom line is safety and I too know that Reading have had a chequred past regarding hooliganism. By making a game all-ticket for just the away fans does encourage ticketless fans to try and gain access in the home ends and give rise to potential affray. The recent publicity surrounding the Spurs thug in the Family Enclosure at Wembley shows how things can 'go off' and I'm sure none of us would want to see repeat scenes at Sixfields that might involve our loved ones. As recently as the Fulham game I witnessed those 'good old lovable cockneys' give an old couple (season ticket holders) really strong abuse after an exchange of opinions. Stewards? Nowhere to be seen and no ejection but an uneasy feeling for the remainder of the game. As I say it is difficult and thuggery is creeping back so to err on the side of caution versus revenue is probably the right thing to do in my opinion.
MartinW at 10:37:31 Monday August 28 2000
Right, it has been a bizarre few days. We must be the only people in Britain who left Reading for Sixfields on Saturday and returned celebrating (singing Jamie Jamie Jamie Forrester in the streets, ahem!) Why? We were at the Reading Festival and the lure of the Reading home game (yes it was on the same day) was of course too much. And it really was the Jamie Forrester show. And anyone who slagged me off for suggesting that if we were going to play this system we would be better having Howard on, should note that Howard headers set up the two Forrester goals (told you so... neh neh neh neh neh). I don't know what it is but these two are hot together. Forrester's second goal was class and you can see it now on martinwilliams.free-online.co.uk (shameless plug) Sorry about the upload delay but I was - as I said, in Reading. How anyone can say we didn't play well is beyond me. Forrester could have had a hat trick in the first half. It was one of those games where taking your chances counted. My alternative man of the match was Keith Welch because he made a few vital saves - one that was international class at point blank range in a crucial period of the second half - that prevented Reading getting an equaliser. If they had scored then, the game could have changed, with the psychological advantage with Reading. For my seat we mixed up the direct approach with a passing game. With Howard's inclusion, we CAN use the long ball option as well as playing to feet to Gabby and Jamie. It made a hell of a difference. Richard Hope had a blinder again and one stalwart fan I spoke to even dared to suggest that if he keeps improving the way he is we may have another Ray Warburton on our hands. What a transformation from last season when his confidence was so low you could see some players avoiding giving him the ball. He was part of a defence that kept Reading's real chances down to just a few. We played with passion and commitment, unlike the second half at Wycombe. And we created a host of chances and whereas before we might not have converted them, we did this time. Our forwards undoubtedly take some of the pressure of the defence, but simply having the ability to score.
As for Forrester, we said before the season started that we had to invest in him. Because he really would be an investment. And he looks for all the world our first million pound plus player. His value must already have more than doubled just in the last few weeks.
Oh, for the record, we got back in time to see Gomez, Beck and Pulp who were fab and discover that there were a lot of Cobblers shirts on the festival site. Seemed to be more of our shirts than any others. Proving beyond all doubt that we are the most popular side in Britain. Ahem.
Finally again, yes it is too long, if anyone has requests for avi files of action which are better quality but a bit weighty on download and upload, I'll sort it. Server size is not a problem. I'm still developing this portal so please be patient on mpegs.
Ray at 10:25:3 Monday August 28 2000
.and I alo don't believe we "mugged" Reading. I agree with the assessment that we did our normal twenty minutes of "we aren't going to be satisfied unless we concede a goal" routine, but we were all over them the rest of the game.
Ray at 10:23:28 Monday August 28 2000
I would not be so concerned about the policing if the decision hadn't been taken to make over 1/3 of our home games all ticket (and I suspect more will follow). At a conservative estimate this is going to cost us a minimum of £75,000 which could be put to much towards a much more useful purpose. Why aren't they just making the away section all ticket instead. There were empty seats in the away section on Saturday so no-one from Reading was disappointed but I suspect 100s of Cobbblers fans were! By all means have whatever police presence they want - after all the Club don't have to pay for it!
fROM THE hEAD mUGGER at 10:19:50 Monday August 28 2000
Lets go and mug Bury, I dont care if we do that in most games, just as long as we win, the point I was trying to make was that it happened to us time and time again in the past and it was great how we kept them out and didnt give up - im not a defeatist, I dont even care if we play pretty football or Sir Ian stlye, as long as we win thats all I care about and Division 1 next stop!! The Muggers The MuggersThe MuggersThe MuggersThe MuggersThe MuggersThe MuggersThe MuggersThe MuggersThe Muggers!!!!!!
Phil at 9:31:13 Monday August 28 2000
I've been on the the Reading message boards, and most of them admit that apart from a twenty minute spell our team was awful, and we got exactly what we deserved. This is how I viewed the game as well,
so I think to say that Reading were mugged is taking away the credit that Northampton richly deserve . I think Forrester is a very good player and looks good with Gabbiadini, although I didn,t like the way he incited the Reading fans when he scored. Anyway best wishes for the rest of the season, and look forward to getting our revenge in the return match.
Hartwell at 9:20:32 Monday August 28 2000
The idea of making our higher profile games all-ticket for away fans seems the logical answer to the present restrictive practice. We are in danger of losing the casual fan - a very valuable asset to any club as it is they who put the jam on the bread and butter. The hard-core fan will always attend and provide the nucleus of support and gate income. Regarding the numbers of "casual" home fans on Saturday that shouldn't be too difficult to calculate. We have 3,500 season ticket holders, most of whom were probably in their seats on Sat. Take away also the 1,200 away fans. That gives us 4,700 - and leaves a balance of 1,000 casual fans. Not many and I would agree with Ray the current policy may well be costing us 500 or more per game, depending on who we are playing. Ref Reading hooligans - I've been there and seen the fans here and never come across anything particularly obmoxious - certainly nothing more than you get at most grounds these days and nothing compared with the hostility at places like Cardiff, Swansea and Millwall.
Anon at 9:13:8 Monday August 28 2000
Thanks for the info 'Mr GA no brains' time wiil tell u will be made to eat your words. Jelousy gets u nowhere. The town r going up
GA at 9:3:10 Monday August 28 2000
MARCO ONE GOAL HERO !!!! WILL HE SCORE IN ANY LEAUGE GAMES OR IS HE JUST ENJOYING GETTING PAID A FORTUNE IN HIS OLD AGE FOR DOING NOTHING. SHIT GROUND NO FANS! SHIT GROUND NO FANS!
Cobbler in the West at 7:33:22 Monday August 28 2000
Ray is right, the ticketing policy needs to be looked at as it is costing the club unnecessary loss of income and additional policing costs. I heard many comment on the excessive police presence on Saturday. Why not make designated games all ticket for away fans like Luton have announced for our visit? I can see that a small number of games need to be all ticket such as Millwall & Stoke but before the season began to stipulate, e.g. Oxford & Walsall as all ticket seems odd.
Banford at 3:39:36 Monday August 28 2000
University College Northampton has been dishing out degrees for ages now! And people say that people attending universitys are getting less and less bright! I wonder why?
Banford
NTFCunofficial.com
Ray at 2:1:41 Monday August 28 2000
Nene College have been issuing degrees for years!
George- Bucks No1 Cobbler at 1:42:48 Monday August 28 2000
P.S I regularly go to Dundee to see my uncle(he lives just by DEns Park) so I could have a word and bring him back.
Anon at 1:42:27 Monday August 28 2000
P.S I regularly go to Dundee to see my uncle(he lives just by DEns Park) so I could have a word and bring him back.
George Bucks No1 Cobbler at 1:40:19 Monday August 28 2000
Great result on sat even better coz I''ve put a £10 for the cobblers to go up this saeson and got them at 50/1 and now they're 40/1. Anyway What do people think about about my idea of bringing back Lee Maddison back from Dundee? - hes available and hes a free - bolster up our aging defence. And God why I am still up. Good night. UP THE COBBLERS
Bez at 1:14:5 Monday August 28 2000
Getting frustrated, no live football since Kettering pre-season, work hours won't let me, bugger. Good start though, shame I'll miss most of the season up in Leeds. Why can't Nene be a good University rather than a pile of crap University College with no degrees? No offence but I can't be arsed to shell out £20 to watch Leeds United and their 'passionate' (translation apathetic, quiet) supporters. Ditto Bradford, Sheffield Wednesday and United. Oh well that leaves Halifax or nothing. Nothing then. Keep cheering for the Cobblers when I can't guys...fecking crap Uni Colleges, fecking work, 12 years I have religiously gone and now 3 years of sporadic glimpses just as it gets good. How fair is that? Maybe I'm the curse of crap Town teams!
Anon at 23:7:32 Sunday August 27 2000
What West Stand were you sitting in then "We did mug them"? That the part for the football ignorant is it? Or perhaps the West Stand of another ground?
nsb at 22:40:33 Sunday August 27 2000
rubbish! of course welch made some excellent saves which kept us in the match, but thats what keepers are for, to get their bodies in the way and hopefully stop a goal! apart from those mad five minutes when the defense stopped for a coffee break and welch had to once again show us how briiliant he is, they didnt give him much to do, the rest of their shots were from 30 yards out and missed my a similar margin! now if youre talking in terms of possesion, then obviously they were better, but possesion isnt what wins matches, goals are, and us with the better strikers, needed less chances to score those vital goals, reading with the over rated gits they have up front couldnt create anything other than some speculative efforts, a repeat of fulham basically! in my view, the 2-0 scoreline was just, savages and hargreaves saved shots made up for their saved efforts...... so stop being defeatist and praise the team excesively like us other dillusional supporters do!
Bank Hol w/e and Saints playing!! at 22:40:12 Sunday August 27 2000
You could go on and on and on and on.... boring!!
Andy at 22:31:26 Sunday August 27 2000
I agree with Ray, the relatively low attendance was probably due to it being ticket only. I'm sure many people only decide to go on the day of the game, especially if they live a few miles out. It would be interesting to find out how many non season ticket holders went, and compare it to a non ticket only game.
wE DID mUG THEM at 22:30:1 Sunday August 27 2000
Whats wrong with that! Get those eyes checked out and everyone started laughing in my part of the West Stand when the man of the match was announced - it should have been either Jamie, Hargreaves or Welch (if he hadnt made a wonderful save they would have over ran us).
So what if we won, but they looked more likely to score all the time, its the win that counts and a certain honesty from Copbblers fans on here.
Deepcut Cobbler at 22:11:53 Sunday August 27 2000
Whats wrong with making it all ticket for away fans only? As lon as there are adequate signs warning of ejection all away fans identified in the home sections would then need to be booted out immediately. Unfortunately the stewards we have walk away when an ejection is required, so a tightening up of the system would be needed there. At least we wouldn't be losing 5 grand every home game. COME ON YOU COBBLERS!!!
nsb at 22:8:3 Sunday August 27 2000
sorry, i meant MUGGERS! besides which you cant expec=t not to concede a couple against the mighty G.H.A.F!
NSB at 22:6:34 Sunday August 27 2000
uggers my arse we scored they didnt it was a clearcut win! if they didnt have such pants strikers, they might have done better!
Local Egg Chaser at 22:5:2 Sunday August 27 2000
I'd just like to change my name to reflect that I do not like sport and hence follow the Saints Glory Hunter team
NSB at 22:4:53 Sunday August 27 2000
no problem can justify me waiting FORTY FIVE minutes in a sodding car park!
Law abiding local resident. at 22:0:53 Sunday August 27 2000
Ray / Hartwell : Both of you are showing your ignorance again and are spouting on about something you know nothing about (apparently) as Reading do have a hooligan problem. That is why there is a large police presence and all of their 'local' games and I for one was grateful for that Saturday. If you don't like the way the police and council run things then perhaps Cobblers should stop sponging off the local tax-payer and get their own ground.
Moose at 21:44:57 Sunday August 27 2000
I have been talking to Chris Freestone and he wants to come back does anyone know if this is true ?
Deepcut Cobbler at 21:43:5 Sunday August 27 2000
Status Quo are great. Where is MartinW with the video clips? Let us all see the mighty muggers in action... COME ON YOU COBBLERS!!!
Dyl at 21:39:45 Sunday August 27 2000
Ray, unfortuantely Reading do have a notorious hooligan element. Anyone who saw the Macintyre undercover documentary would ahve sen the strong links between Reading hooligans and the Chelsea headhunters. Undeniably the police cost the club money this weekend, but Reading, like Stoke and Milwall have serious hooligan problems.
Fat Boy at 21:33:22 Sunday August 27 2000
God, Status Quo are great, now where's my tory party membership card
NSB at 21:5:47 Sunday August 27 2000
whts happened to martin W? surely he has some choice words to describe the ridiculous affair regarding the police? such as being forced to wait FORTY FIVE minutes in a bloody car park!
NSB at 21:2:31 Sunday August 27 2000
hey, the police bring new meaning to the saying "get off your high horse!"
nsb at 21:1:57 Sunday August 27 2000
Yes TCMP! Thats the answer, if we get an MP to tell the pigs what to go do with themselves then surely we'll have less of this all ticket crap! TCMP i call on you to get a law passed to ban police interference with our lovely beutiful trouble free club!
Paul at 20:52:50 Sunday August 27 2000
I would like to believe that Ray, but next month the transfer system as we know it will be abolished by the good old EU!
Ray at 19:43:45 Sunday August 27 2000
Ive been telling everyone that all along - mark my words - we are gonna finish up getting really good money for him when the time comes for him to move on.
Pickled Judge at 19:20:53 Sunday August 27 2000
Yes that big barrier was a complete mystery and not cheap I bet. Do I live in a different world? What were they expecting World War 3? Crazy. But the game was terrific. Both the home league games have been really entertaining I think. Wycombe was rubbish but I guess you have to have the odd one. Last season I thought Howard was too slow and kept falling over but yesterday he was great and I think Wilson needs to take a lot of the credit. I kept thinking lets take the money when Carlisle etc were coming in for him but if he can sustain his form he will end up a Klaret Cing! Suits him to play where he is and did you see/hear the way he was sorting things out on the pitch. Maybe even a future captain!? Well done you Cobblers. Lets keep it up for tomorrow. Oh yes and three cheers for Welch, brilliant save.
The Cobblers - The Muggers!! at 18:40:7 Sunday August 27 2000
Tales of Bury - any out there???
Ray at 17:16:5 Sunday August 27 2000
I couldnt understand the reason for the all ticket decision for yesterday either. By all means make it all ticket for away supporters but the decision to make no sales available on the day probably cost us at least 500 on the gate - a minimum of £5,000. Are the Club compensated for this shortfall? No - of course not. We have seen it happen time and time again and it costs the Club money we can ill afford! Its about time something was done. Reading hardly have a reputation for trouble do they? I've never heard anything. Was there trouble last time we played them? There are a large number of all ticket games this season - this is the first of 8 - over a third of all our home matches!! Can anyone also explain the reason why all exits to all car parks were closed until a minimum of 15 minutes after the match finished? Whats the logic behind that? Would they rather people sit there with tempers getting frayed in the hope that trouble is caused and the police can justify their large presence? Daft! Also, whats the reasoning behind the large steel barrier erected outside the shop? Fans from both clubs were allowed to walk around it on the grass in either direction and it appeared to be a complete waste of time. Can anyone explain any of this? TCMP? Care to comment?
Gervase at 16:57:19 Sunday August 27 2000
I guess a council owned stadium will always mean the council will err on the side of caution. The club probably have very little say in the matter, the council and the plod sort it out accordingly.
Hartwell at 15:37:44 Sunday August 27 2000
Yep, Ralph - I am generally very pleased with the set-up. But while I also like Howard in that role tucked in behind the front men, we seem to have so many in midfield we are inclined to get in each other's way which restricts the options for passes and hinders our chances of keeping posession, moving the ball on quickly and getting among the opposition rearguard. Once we get the ball I'd like to see at least one man push wide as a matter of course. Yesterday Hendon, in particular, tended to push up down the middle when he'd have been far better off going wide where there was acres of space. Regarding NSB's comments about the police, while I wouldn't have put it quite so colourfully, I have to agree with the sentiment. I have for a long time been saying the police appear to have have far too much control at the club and you sometimes wonder whether it is in the interests of NTFC or the Northamptonshire Constabulary. I know they would come back strongly on the law and order issue and to a degree I can understand that. But we do not, by and large, have crowd problems at Sixfields. Yet sometimes you have to wonder whether the police over-react. Yesterday was a good example - while there may be the odd hotheads, I am not aware of Reading having a reputation for trouble. So to ban same-day ticket sales and put out four mounted police plus such seemingly large numbers of uniformed coppers, appeared to me to be OTT. While Sky TV and ticket prices were probably more to blame for Tuesday's relatively poor home support, I am convinced the ban on day-of-match ticket sales, when it occurs, is the major factor for substantially lower crowd numbers and subsequent losses of revenue to the club. I can understand a more high profile policing at games such as Millwall and Stoke. Yet, I recall one Millwall all-ticket game where home fans couldn't buy on the day - yet from where I was sitting it appeared the police let in a large group of ticketless Millwall fans sometime after kick off! I expect they would say it was better to coral them. But the message that sends doesn't even need spelling out! I would be happy to be proved wrong on the issue of policing. But many of us are clearly of the view that significantly smaller crowds are a direct consequence of this ticketing policy.
Marriott at 15:23:19 Sunday August 27 2000
I have a ten pund bet that Ryan Thompson will score a first team goal before Andy Morrow (Auto-Windscreen games dont count).
From what I have seen, Thompson looks the much better player and if he was Northern Irish then he would be in the under 21 squad too!
Not knocking Morrow or anything, because I hope I get to cheer many Morrow goals in a claret shirt in a couple of years or so!
Anyone else agree?
Also, How good is Richard Hope, he has been outstanding so far, as has Welchie!
No-one has played to badly, but Iam a little worried about how much the defence concede possesion!
Paul at 14:42:35 Sunday August 27 2000
Funny experience when I left the Game yesterday. Waited for the final whistle before running as fast as I could from the North stand to the South car park. As I reach the South end of the ground a Reading fan shouts "Cu#t" at me. I smile back and he says "Come on then". LOL I just kept running as I wanted to get out the car park quick! But my point is, what a bad looser, and what a total think twat. The police were 50M away. Still.. UP THE COBBLERS!!
NSB at 12:52:58 Sunday August 27 2000
the police need to be lined up and shot! First they lock everybody out of the ground, meaning we only have a 5000 crowd rather than the 7000+ crowd which we would otherwise have done!, THEN they block off the exit from the car park with their f**king horses meaning i have to wait FORTY FIVE F**KING MINUTES WAITING IN THE CAR PARK! PISS OFF YOU PIGS YOURE NOTHING BUT SCUM AND I BET YOURE ALL FROM PISHBORO!
Reputations at 12:6:23 Sunday August 27 2000
After 20 seconds of the game on Tuesday Alan Parry said 'They're a big, strong, physical team, Northampton.' Right you are I thought:- Hendon, Hughes, Hunt, Hargreaves, Frain, Forrester and Gabbiadini are all the size of WWF stars - not! Brentford were big, but Reading were bigger and looked as if they were wearing Gridiron padding. And a bunch of cloggers too. Butler worth 5 Jamie Forresters? I'd be sick as a pig if WE had spent £6 million on our squad and we played like they did.
Ralph at 11:56:51 Sunday August 27 2000
Hi Dave - The lack of width was very evident and Wilson has a problem that if he plays Howard he sacrifices width in midfield as Hargreaves and Hunt have to play a holding role in central midfield which means Frain and Hendon are finding it difficult to push forward as they have to defend more. Howard certainly justified his selection by laying on both Forrester's goals and I think he gives the opposition much to contend with, more so than Savage. I cannot see how Hodge will start a game either as he is solely an out and out winger and exposes Hendon's defensive frailties even more when he plays. 5-2-1-2 worked yesterday and is proving difficult to score against, so long as we take our chances Wilson has no need to change it. Until Hunter returns I can't see any other options.
Steve at 11:45:54 Sunday August 27 2000
Right - where to begin? How about this? I am so chuffed with yesterday's performance! Reading are big, dirty and massively over-priced and overrated. Yes, we were under pressure for parts of the game, but we kept things tight. There was very little of the passing of the ball straight to the opposition, which has so often characterised Cobblers' performances over the years. What we saw was not only great attacking skills from the likes of Forrester and Gabiadini, but also great defending skills from Hope and Green. And not only that. The commitment was outstanding. There were so many instances - Forrester harrying and chasing down their defenders, and in spite of his lack of inches, challenging for every high ball. Hargreaves chasing, tackling, probing, attacking non-stop. Hunt ditto. Frain tackling like a tiger. Steve Howard - well what can you say? He epitmises the Cobblers spirit. Great effort and guts. No little skill in his holding up and distribution. In the nicest possible way, it must be said that his lack of pace is quite comical. But who cares? He is a great option because, in his withdrawn attacking role, he causes the opposition so much grief. They've not only got to handle the speed, skill and shooting of Gabiadini and Forrester, but they've also got to worry about this large dangerous lump hurtling around midfield creating mayhem. The boy is a wonder to behold. How it would have made everyone's day if that diving header had gone in. And another thing. Hasn't Stevie Howard matured? Time and again, he was hacked down. Never once did he retaliate. No sign of any afters. He just got on with the job. You can ask no more of the guy, and yet there were still those around us in the East Stand having a go! I could not believe it! What do they want? One of these days I'm going to have a risk a bloody nose and find out. Then there was Savage. I've always been one who has doubted his commitment, but there he was on as sub, with a suspect knee and he went straight into one-on-one challenges as though he was Roy Keane incarnate. He nearly scored a lovely goal after a super move and then had to go off again with that dodgy knee. I thought Hughes was fine, but is he a bit slow? He once got roasted in the first half by the Akinbiyi lookalike. Hendon was fine, occasionally dodgy, but basically fine. Green was terrific, never put a foot wrong. Hope was outstanding. People talk about Forrester fetching £1,000,000 plus, but I honestly believe Hope could surprise a lot of people and go to a top club. The of course, you've got to mention Keith Welch. I've said it before - he's the best Cobblers keeper I've seen in my 37 years of supporting. He is just SO reliable. It's obvious I'm excited by the game, but it's not just because of one performance. It's because, for the first time in years, there is so much to be excited about. We've got a manager (and don't forget, a board of Directors) who can attract high calibre players to our club without having to fork out more than £150,000. O.K. I know that Forrester and Gabiadini will be on high wages and will have commanded high signing-on fees, but presumably the same applies to the over-priced flops of Reading. As far as I'm concerned, we currently have a team and a club to be proud of and so much to look forward to. One final word. There were morons around who were constantly having a go at the ref. Why? He had a great game. He seemed to spot all Reading's fouls. He managed to keep control when Reading got dirty without having to send anyone off. What is the problem with some of these people? Anyway, that's enogh from me. I only wish I could attend more than my season's handful of home games. But those of you who do go every week, enjoy it! I envy you.
Gervase at 11:43:19 Sunday August 27 2000
GREAT WIN - I'm not sure about the mugging accusation. Reading arrived full of confidence, perhaps a little over confident. Their supporters, surprisingly given previous season's overspent failures, also arrived thinking the points were theirs for the taking. Reading began well, slick passing and full of running but never really threatened our goal first half. Granted just after the break Welch kept us in the game but after that intial pressure they again fell away and Jaime's second really finished them and we could have quite easily grabbed a third. Their stars didn't look up for it, Caskey spent most of the game fouling Frain, Butler had no service. Still it is early days for anyone to get too excited, mind you I'd be worried if I were Colin Todd and Swindon!
Hartwell at 11:33:44 Sunday August 27 2000
Ralph - good summary of game. my only persisting nagging concern is our lack of width. the midfield gets very congested and many's the time hargreaves looked up for someone wide, where there was acres of space - only to find no claret shirt available. both flanks were more often than not forgotten but wide open green spaces, just asking to be used. the differences in style between marco and jamie was clearly demonstrated yesterday. jamie can turn a player and make his own chances out of nothing. marco, on the other hand, needs to be fed. give him good ball and he'll score most weeks. again some of this comes down to width. wingers who can take on and beat fullbacks, and pull the ball back will help marco immeasurably. other than that, we looked a very useful outfit yesterday against a rerading team who will win more games than they lose this season. i thought their no 37 was their best player by far and a real handful at times.
Steve Coverdale at 10:33:59 Sunday August 27 2000
Those of you who cannot make the long journey up to Bury, or perhaps do not want to face the Bank Holiday traffic on the M6, might like to take up the offer announced at yesterday's encounter at Sixfields. Northants Steelbacks take on Yorkshire in a one-day match (second versus third) on Monday and you can obtain admission at half-price if you bring with you your Reading ticket stub. Darren Gough, Craig White and Michael Vaughan will provide stiff opposition, so your support would be most welcome. Come and cheer on your County side and enjoy the facilities on offer at The County Ground. Thanks.
Great Win at 10:19:14 Sunday August 27 2000
But, I must have been to a different game, it was mainly all Reading, we mugged them, cos Mr Forrester scores for fun, yes we could have had a few more but if both sides had taken their chnces Reading would have won, im not complaining because in the past it has happened to us so many times, and now with 2 wins on the trot its all about confidence and the big test is tomorrow - up those fabulous Cobblers!! see you all there and Seamus!!
RDFC2 at 9:37:35 Sunday August 27 2000
If Forrester keeps playing well maybe we will sign him aswell.
GOING DOWN!!!!
Big Roy at 1:3:33 Sunday August 27 2000
On the 9th Sept in fact. I wonder if Gormless will be there?
Not Ralph at 1:1:56 Sunday August 27 2000
I love Gormenghast too. That Tinitus Groan was a right b***ard! See you at Green's Norton
Big Roy at 1:0:4 Sunday August 27 2000
Bread and butter for me and a glass of Ribena. Oh well, off to bed to listen to my tinitus. See ya.
BELCH at 0:58:28 Sunday August 27 2000
Blinding! Also scoffed a Pukka S&K pie too. Loads of vinegar and salt.
Big Roy at 0:57:12 Sunday August 27 2000
Sounds like a bloody dog! Nice chips and curry sauce?
Put That Fag Out! at 0:56:16 Sunday August 27 2000
Lucky Roy - has a certain ring to it.
Big Roy at 0:54:3 Sunday August 27 2000
Lucky guess.
TP at 0:53:18 Sunday August 27 2000
How do you know it's Ralph?
Chris Hargreaves at 0:52:40 Sunday August 27 2000
UNCLE RICHARD - You have the cheek to criticise my hair, at least I have some!
Big Roy at 0:51:14 Sunday August 27 2000
Neither did I Ralph.
Running Down A Dream at 0:48:51 Sunday August 27 2000
Didn't expect that one!
Uncle Richard at 21:13:1 Saturday August 26 2000
How much did they pay for Cureton ?
Uncle Richard at 21:7:45 Saturday August 26 2000
Great job today,lets hope it's only the start!
Darren Gibson at 20:56:48 Saturday August 26 2000
yeah there were some morons behind me today in the west stand abusing stevie howerd. The main one was a bloke who looked like action man, he had a furry head and was well old enuff to know better. he was sitting in Q131. I know that if you pay youre money who should be allowed to say what you feel but how can you slag your own player off when he is playing so good? He left before the end and all the fans sung cheerio, cheerio as he went, glad to see him go. good win today even without Sammo. UP THE COBBLERS.
Andy at 19:50:24 Saturday August 26 2000
What a wonderful wonderful performance. One of those games that just leaves you feeling so proud to be a Cobbler!!! 2 more fantastic goals from Jamie and MOM performances from the whole team. 2 excellent saves from Welch, magnificent tackiling from Frain, Hope, Howard, Hargreaves all superb. Oh yes, and our 2 strikers. Is this really the Cobblers I'm watching???
Pontius at 19:45:42 Saturday August 26 2000
Any Cobblers fans with a view on today's victory over Berkshire's finest (Cough)?
If so, post some feedback at
http://www.insidetheweb.com/mbs.cgi/mb856342
Perhaps a match report. I can't be bothered, see.
ORBITAL Ganja at 19:25:48 Saturday August 26 2000
Were starting to get up to speed, 3 points, brilliant!!!!
britgal at 19:16:55 Saturday August 26 2000
wow!! brilliant result! Jamie is a wonder, isn't he?! So is Hargreaves. And Howard's improvement since this time last year... But the joy of victory is marred cos i just got the photos back of me with the cobblers @ the balloon festival, and the one of me and Jamie is blurred beyond recognition! :( Not only that, but the one of me and Duncan Spedding doesn't exist cos my stoopid brother didn't press the camera button properly!!
DEN at 19:9:25 Saturday August 26 2000
Great result today, and a great team performance. At £150K Jamie is an absolute bargain, how on earth Cureton is rated at £250-400K, and Butler £750K is beyond me. I thought Reading were very very poor. Although Welchy made to great saves it could easily have ended up 3,4 or 5-0. Steve Howard deserved his MOM award but it easily could have gone to anyone. Once the second goal went in we relaxed and played some super football. Referee was excellent. A good afternoon all round but agree with Ralph about the disappointing attendance. Roll on Bury. Shame about the P**h result
Ralph at 18:21:52 Saturday August 26 2000
A great performance today and the result was a bonus. Yet another big money club flatters to deceive, but Reading did have us on the ropes for about twenty minutes in the second half. The rest of the time we looked comfortable with FIVE at the back of which Hope (again) and Green were outstanding. With only two in midfield I was concerned that we would get overrun but Hargreaves was superb and well supported by Hunt. Howard was involved in both of Forresters goals and Steve was named MoM to add to his internet award which he received before the game. There are still morons in the crowd who still see fit to abuse him though!! Marco was off the pace today but still managed to work himself a couple of good openings. Savage had a rasper pushed wide before being subbed (another heavy tackle on his dodgy knee) and Steve Howard went close with a diving header just before the whistle. Although Jaime scored twice and took his second superbly, I would plump for Welchy as MoM. He kept us in the game with three fantastic saves at a crucial time just after the break. I thought Hughes was up against it and up against an Akinbiyi lookalike who cost £500k from Southampton but Hughes did finished strongly after a shaky start. Crowd was 5,728 which is a little disappointing when you consider 3,500 are season ticket holders and 1,200 were away fans. Darren Caskey looked overweight and committed half-a-dozen fouls on Frainy before eventually being booked. Butler up front at £750k was nowhere near as threatening as Forrester who must be worth a few bob more than we paid for him. We are ninth in the table and a win at Bury will take us above them.
Sleeping Dog at 18:6:20 Saturday August 26 2000
And you lot go on about Atkins still having a go. For goodness sake let it drop, stop harping on about the past and enjoy the present, while you can!
Mr VERY HAPPY at 17:22:12 Saturday August 26 2000
Sod Atkins and his £1,000,000 Chrissie Lee"Who will be Northamptons first million pound player" Forester will be our first Million player for sure? and you Mr Atkins will be job hunting AGAIN!!!
Sean from London at 17:5:29 Saturday August 26 2000
Can you have your round-up Mr Commentator?
Sean from London at 16:57:37 Saturday August 26 2000
Yes - result 2-0
Sean from London at 16:56:45 Saturday August 26 2000
Northampton 2 v 0 Reading (Has the final whistle gone?)
76 min Jamie Forrester scores for Northampton.
75 min Darren Caskey (Reading) is booked for a foul.
74 min James Hunt (Northampton) is booked for a foul.
45 min Lee Hodges (Reading) is booked for a foul.
31 min Jamie Forrester scores for Northampton.
Anon at 16:51:13 Saturday August 26 2000
Has the final whistle gone yet?
Anon at 16:51:9 Saturday August 26 2000
Has the final whistle gone yet?
com at 16:46:45 Saturday August 26 2000
savvo is on, almost scored and is now down with another injury
com. at 16:35:45 Saturday August 26 2000
good attempt by gabbi
com. at 16:33:20 Saturday August 26 2000
set up, again, by a howard header!
com. at 16:32:44 Saturday August 26 2000
goal!! forrester again! he is a god!! 2-0!!
com. at 16:24:16 Saturday August 26 2000
the cobblers r under pressure
com. at 16:20:49 Saturday August 26 2000
2 fantastic saves by welch
com. at 16:18:38 Saturday August 26 2000
still 1-0
ANON at 16:17:15 Saturday August 26 2000
Does anybody know the score, is it still 1-0?
com. at 15:47:49 Saturday August 26 2000
at half-time: 1-0 to the cobblers, Forrester.
com. at 15:40:57 Saturday August 26 2000
he's carrying on playing. reading are attacking but hope is clearing well
com. at 15:39:40 Saturday August 26 2000
frain is down...
com. at 15:30:18 Saturday August 26 2000
1-0!!
commentator at 15:29:48 Saturday August 26 2000
Forrester scores!!!
commentator at 15:21:14 Saturday August 26 2000
gabbiandini had a good chance but didn't get a goal. it was the best atempt yet tho.
commentator at 15:14:15 Saturday August 26 2000
cobblers get a corner but it's saved. Apart from that nothing much. 0-0 still.
commentator at 14:53:2 Saturday August 26 2000
same team as v. fulham. savage on the bench
Sean from London at 14:36:51 Saturday August 26 2000
Yes
commentator at 14:34:20 Saturday August 26 2000
i live too far away to go to todays match, but i can (just about) pick up northants radio. any1 want commentary?
Continental Football at 13:59:14 Saturday August 26 2000
Hold ball, pass sideways, hold ball, pass back, hold ball, pass forward, hold ball, pass sideways, hold ball, pass back, hold ball, pass forward, hold ball, pass sideways, hold ball, pass back, hold ball, pass forward, hold ball, pass sideways, hold ball, pass back, hold ball, pass forward, shoot goal kick. Other team: hold ball, pass sideways, hold ball, pass back, hold ball, pass forward, hold ball, pass sideways, hold ball, pass back, hold ball, pass forward, hold ball, pass sideways, hold ball, pass back, hold ball, pass forward, hold ball, pass sideways, hold ball, pass back, hold ball, pass forward, yawn! You can keep it mush!
Ray at 12:15:1 Saturday August 26 2000
Make sure you're all there for 2:40 today to see the Internet Player of the Year Presentation.
Modernist at 11:51:1 Saturday August 26 2000
Can we play continental style football and bask in mediteranian weather until christmas?
DEK at 10:38:11 Saturday August 26 2000
Excellent performance on Tuesday. We must play we that much commitment every week. Howard played a big part. He wins headers and slows the game down allowing others to move off the ball. The only problems I could see were that the defenders were clearing the ball over his head thus not using his strength in the air as much and that Gabbi and Forrester then played much further apart.
Very interesting to see that Wilson was shouting / directing / encouraging his players a lot more than usual (except the Chester game versus Atkins). The reason he didn't take Gabbi off was because Gabbi didn't want to come off. Wilson asked him (politely) about 5 times if he was OK and did he want to come off !!!!
Traditionalist at 10:15:1 Saturday August 26 2000
Rachel - This weather is fine, English football was mean't to be played in wet, cold and muddy conditions. Sunshine is for holidays and Cricket.
TRCDU at 10:9:43 Saturday August 26 2000
Bloody Hell Roy you forgot your Chilli Sauce !!!!!
Rachel at 9:59:59 Saturday August 26 2000
why such a weather change from yesterday?! It woz luvly sunshine, now this crappy weather! Clear up b4 the game l8r please!!
Rachel at 9:59:12 Saturday August 26 2000
why such a weather change from yesterday?! It woz luvly sunshine, now this crappy weather! Clear up b4 the game l8r please!!
Rachel at 9:52:55 Saturday August 26 2000
I thort I waz imagineing the lightening in Kingsthorpe last nite!! But obviously I weren't!
Look Through Any Window at 9:39:31 Saturday August 26 2000
No? Well it is now pouring in Kingsthorpe. At last proper football weather! Mind you it needs to clear up for Monday's massive game.
A Bit Behind at 9:13:31 Saturday August 26 2000
I can't see any lightening
Look Out of Your Window at 0:9:10 Saturday August 26 2000
You got lightening? Big time light show here in Kingsthorpe! Funda too!
BEAST at 23:7:38 Friday August 25 2000
Big Roy don't forget your 50p for your Golden Goal ticket and your chance to grace the hallowed turf and your Nationwide loan for those half time refreshments.
Big Roy at 22:56:56 Friday August 25 2000
I'm ready for tomorrow I think. Let's see - tickets, drinks, sweeties, £2 for programme, cap, shades, factor 25 sun block, more sweeties, book to read whilst waiting to get out of car park, son, cotton wool for his ears - yep all ready. Bring on Reading. COME ON COBBLERS!
BEAST at 22:23:50 Friday August 25 2000
On the subject of 'loyal supporters' why go to Reading when Reading are comming to Northampton?
BEAST at 22:15:53 Friday August 25 2000
Always reading but not commenting these days, but tonight the liquid in my glass is claret as is the blood in the veins and with the wife down the town I've got some quality time to myself and just fancied giving my four penneth. On the subject of qualifications to support the Cobbs there isn't any, I was born in York but the only time that I have been to Bootham Crescent was that day in 1998 when we made the Play offs. As for 'anti heroes' Steve Howard must get maximum respect for the way he played on tuesday, having been slated for so long and turning down moves to other clubs. I think his biggest problem was the shite that Atkins talked about him when he joined us, as was the same with Lee and Gibb nothing like telling a young player that he is going to be the next best thing to f**k his head up. Does anybody know what he has said to Andy Morrow because he looks like the next. And as for Martin W his submissions are too long so I just don't bother after the first couple of lines, but fair play for the enthusiasm Martin.
Gomez at 22:10:14 Friday August 25 2000
Yeh - no industry, intolerant miserable git population, crappy weather - yeh half the world's population would love to live here i'm sure! Don't get me wrong, I am English born and bred, but I have travelled a bit, and this country is by no means anything special! Get out more mate!
Andy at 21:59:53 Friday August 25 2000
I’ve noticed how the bickering starts on here. A regular contributor criticises something, it could be a player, manager or the board. People then round on the complainer. This person replies by demanding their right to constructively criticise; and usually also gives some kind of support history to back it up. This makes the others dig at that response, and it goes on from there. Quite entertaining really.
Right Wing Nazi at 21:59:32 Friday August 25 2000
Vowte fowr the conservative partay!!!! phfwwwwfffff. Lets stay out of Yerp and keep our own currency (even if it does ruin the country).
UK (to Gomez) at 21:54:36 Friday August 25 2000
If anyone thinks this is a sad island then basically bog off, more than half the worlds population given the chance would be here, so go and s..g Dolly the Sheep you deserve each other! Be proud of your team, your country and your fellow decent human beings.
Gomez at 21:45:10 Friday August 25 2000
I take it from your comment, Mr Not at Reading? that you dislike the kind of music being played at Reading this weekend? Well if this is the case it's people like you that make this country the sad little island it is. Keep on bopping to Alice Deejay pal!
Not at Reading? at 21:13:35 Friday August 25 2000
I see you sense of humour is about as poor as your musical taste Gormless.
Phil Baron at 20:57:9 Friday August 25 2000
It will be nice to see Atkins sued for libel. I hope the Cobblers board do not "kop out" and reach an agreement by "mutual consent" Get all the money we have paid him and pay for TCMP to go to a Anti smoking class!!!!!
Gomez at 20:47:16 Friday August 25 2000
Britgal, who is c.c ? No sorry, that's not funny.
Rudolph Hucker at 20:13:50 Friday August 25 2000
Where's that nice MartinW gone? I really miss his postings!
D.Savage at 18:36:6 Friday August 25 2000
yer it would wouldn't it Brigital!!
britgal at 18:24:9 Friday August 25 2000
if i was a cobbler i'd come onto c.c. all the time, seeing what was written about me. They must visit this page, mustn't they? Wouldn't it be weird if they did write on here...
George Bucks No 1 Cobbler at 18:18:14 Friday August 25 2000
Well after watching the rather S**t performance against W.W and Spedding humping it all the way (Was he dreaming of Atko. I have read that Lee Maddison is available of a free from Dundee and will be training alone if he cannot find a team by next week - So how about we capture him back to give s a bit of depth in defence? P.S Excellent result against Fulham!!!!
Its Official at 17:42:22 Friday August 25 2000
Danny and Martin W are the same, they have now been cloned and answer to DOLLY!
Vince at 17:27:27 Friday August 25 2000
I thought that Hearts nickname was the Jambos. I was once in Edinburgh when Hearts were playing at home and kept doing double takes at all the claret scarves. If they are meant to be maroon they certainly look claret. Also didn't subutteo sets for NTFC also have Hearts name on the box?
Uncle Richard at 17:11:3 Friday August 25 2000
Listening to 5 live on the way to Wycombe , Stan Collymore was spouting off about being P.C. literate and being intenet ready , which made me think how many of the Cobblers higher paid players can afford computers and would they subscribe to C.C. What are their pen names , or would they be banned from contributing by the club ?
Deepcut Cobbler at 16:2:35 Friday August 25 2000
We are the only team in both English and Scottish leagues who play in CLARET and White. We are the only team with the initials NTFC. We are the only LEAGUE team in Northants. CLARET is a colour to be proud of, Maroon can be confused with "left behind". Parry should have the decency to prepare his notes properly or sack his researcher. Does he call West Ham, Villa or Burnley Maroon?? Hearts play in maroon, and call themselves that. I like the sound of uniques when applied to the Cobblers.....COME ON YOU COBBLERS!!! For PATTCOBB. To be optimistic when all around are, or should be in dispair, especially when bottom and within a cats whisker of going out of the league (but we have had a great deal of practice).
Steve at 15:39:29 Friday August 25 2000
Thinking of going to the game tomorrow(26th v. us - er.. Reading); very impressed by the site - especially the directions and advice on getting to the ground, pubs etc. C ya 2morrow!!
Carl at 13:7:47 Friday August 25 2000
What is the difference between Maroon and Claret anyway? Crap floodlights? How can that be, what was so crap about them? Could you not see the game from whence you sat, young twat, or is it just another moan for the sake of it. If so come and support us for inane moanings you will be made to feel most welcome.
Anon at 13:3:32 Friday August 25 2000
Not being a Daily Express reader, What has Atkins said?
Rayu at 12:30:46 Friday August 25 2000
The Cobblers do a similar package for all home games. Contact the Commercial department for details.
Paul H at 12:17:38 Friday August 25 2000
I don't know if anybody is interested, but it sounds a good deal to me in todays chron. BURY are offering Cobblers fans travelling to the Bank Holiday Monday match at Gigg Lane a special VIP package at the special price of £25.
For that, Town supporters will get a car park pass, bucks fizz reception, four-course pre-match lunch in the new Pitchside restaurant, full bar facilities before and after the match, complimentary match programme, half-time refreshments, fun quiz and competitions and a reserved main stand seat for the big game.
Juniors can also take advantage at a cost of £20, but the package must be pre-booked by telephoning the commercial department on 0161 705 2144 or faxing 0161 762 9620.
MIGHT BE ALAN PARRY at 12:8:0 Friday August 25 2000
Under sixfields crap floodlights your shirts looked MAROON so there Carl.
pattcobbs secretary at 12:4:30 Friday August 25 2000
RULES FOR COBBLERS FANS..............He/SHE MUST SINGLE OUT ONE (AND ONE ONLY) PLAYER ,WHOSE FAULT IT IS......
PATTCOBB at 12:1:34 Friday August 25 2000
Pickled Judge........You forgot the one about being able to slag a player off for months/years then treat him kike a hero when he starts to perform (grayson,gayle.howard to name but a few).
Carl at 12:1:9 Friday August 25 2000
Getting pissed off when Alan Parry mentions the word Maroon
Vince at 12:0:29 Friday August 25 2000
PJ, how about the ability to ignore ramblings and mutterings by a balding matchday announcer.
Pickled Judge at 11:43:37 Friday August 25 2000
CHESHIRE COBBLER: I was starting to think maybe you were Kevin Wilson in disguise! Maybe you and I should be the next management team! (long time from now I hope).
MartinW: When I added your site as a favourite it called it 'South Park Rock Videos'. P.S: Don't be so serious, this is all fun.
OFFICIAL CREDENTIALS TO BE A COBBLER:
1. Ability to stand on rain-soaked open terraces at away grounds with soggy sandwiches.
2. A taste for claret.
3. Mental ability to retain names of 17 travel clubs and their numbers.
4. Very sturdy chest of drawers to store 80 page programmes week-in week-out.
5. A longing to see a spherical object enter the hatch of a cruddy car from 40 yards.
6. The desire to see glorious attack-minded footy played with passion.
Have I forgotten anything guys?
Danny at 10:57:59 Friday August 25 2000
MartinW, on the bright side, while people are having a pop at you, they're leaving the players alone :)
Danny at 10:56:49 Friday August 25 2000
Having read everyone taking a swipe at MartinW for giving his views on the Wycombe game..... how can you disagree with him? We were very poor (some might say crap) either you wern't there or you were not watching the game!!!! Like all of us, he paid his money, he has every right to air his views. And most of them were spot on and I agreed with. Great result tuesday night coupled with a great performance. Jamie and Marco look as if their parntership is developing at an incredible rate, looking forward to tomorrow and hopefully 3 points in the bag. COME ON COBBLERS!!!!!!
PATTCOBB at 9:55:29 Friday August 25 2000
SOUR GRAPES ATKINS................WHAT THE F*CK ARE YOU ON?Can't you bear the fact that NTFC are successful without you? The fact is he took over NTFC when they were in the lower reaches of div 3,and when he left where were we?I will never forget wmebley 1, but I am trying to forget wembley 2 when Mr atkins stifled the heart of his team (remember Dozzell Seal on the bench). THEN PROCEEDED TO BLAME ALL AND SUNDRY FOR THE FOLLOWING SEASON'S RELEGATION.Get the man some help before he disapears up his own ass.
nsb at 9:18:56 Friday August 25 2000
martin w your clips site is fantastic, but how come there are no more mpegs?? i assume you dont have enough webspace for all of them!!!!! if only there was a way of combining the quality of mpg with the small file size of real player!
Oh Bugger.... at 7:28:31 Friday August 25 2000
Two ex-Prem refs next month
Two former Premiership referees will be taking charge of matches at Sixfields Stadium next month.
Paul Danson has been named as the man in the middle for the Cobblers' clash with Notts County on September 16th.
While Uriah Rennie will take charge of the September 30th game with Wrexham, after being dropped from the elite list during the summer.
It will be Rennie's first time at Sixfields since he refereed the play-off semi-final clash against Cardiff City in 1997.
Sean from London at 22:48:41 Thursday August 24 2000
So Oasis are playing Reading on FRiday, and the Cobblers are playing Reading on the Saturday. Unfortunately I don't have a ticket for the big event - so I will see Noel and Liam but not the real heroes Jamie and Marco!
Chas just for you at 22:6:54 Thursday August 24 2000
It would be a lot easier to ring up the club and find out. Have alook on the Official Site for details
chas (and no 'dave' or 'rabbit' jokes please) at 21:0:31 Thursday August 24 2000
How much is it to sponser a player or a match. PLEASE!!!
Carl at 20:51:34 Thursday August 24 2000
Martin, how do you record that stuff, is it a video camera in front of your tv or is it one of them web cam thingies?
Touch typists of the world unite - wow!!! at 20:33:43 Thursday August 24 2000
Martin W my modest hero can touch type - so you are a Tranny!
Big Roy at 20:31:6 Thursday August 24 2000
I touch the keyboard when I type as well Martin! Unfortunately, I think very slowly.
Anon at 20:27:12 Thursday August 24 2000
How much to sponsor something??
MARTINS COMMENTS at 20:16:44 Thursday August 24 2000
WELCOMES YOU TO HIS PERSONAL S.ITE
MartinW at 19:53:30 Thursday August 24 2000
Nsb got it right, well it's pretty obvious. I am not the only one who was (constructively) critical of our performance against Wycombe. I think you'll find that Kevin Wilson was - is he related to that crap Australian comedian with the Bloody for a middle name, maybe it IS him...GOD. Anyway, my point is is Wilson being disloyal by saying we played badly. Hopefully and not everyone will agree, the idea is to stimulate debate and let's face it, there is nothing wrong with that. There is nothing wrong with disagreeing and being constructively critical at times. That's our we progress. We wouldn't be in this position today if someone did not think that it was time to get a fresh face on the management stool. But I agree, there is not need for some of the childishness. I can't believe people moan about the amount I write, if it boring, don't read it. I'm glad the Cobblers video site is of use to some people. And Big Jim, I don't understand how you could be getting South Park videos. Maybe you are on the South Park web page. To get onto the Cobblers page, go to www.martinwilliams.free-online.co.uk and click on the Cobblers in Video icon at the top of the screen. You should not get any South Park stuff, nobody else has. Hope you enjoy it. The montage is not bad.
Finally I will say to those who think I only moan, if you take all that I ever put on here, you'll find that the (constructively) critical bits amount to a very very small proportion. And if I write a lot it's because I touch type and I can write as I think, sorry. It doesn't take me a lot of time. Cheers y'all and c'mon, let's put our energies into supporting the team.
BIG JIM at 19:21:7 Thursday August 24 2000
MARTIN W,I WROTE TO YOU THE OTHER DAY AND ASKED IF YOU COULD HELP ME GET ONTO YOUR SITE AS I AM HAVING PROBLEMS,PLEASE LOOK BACK THROUGH THE POSTINGS
Deepcut Cobbler at 19:10:20 Thursday August 24 2000
MartinW...Excellent video clips from Fulham game. Just the job for us well out of Towners. Are we meant to receive sound as well? I have visual but no audio...COME ON YOU COBBLERS!!!
Deepcut Cobbler at 18:55:32 Thursday August 24 2000
More tales from Reading....Elm Park...Auto widescreens Tuesday evening 19 SOMETHING, chucking it down with rain, four nil down, scored one in the last minute. 150 hardy souls celebrated as if we had scored the winner. standing ovation from the Reading fans.... Who else was there? And I left Northampton 23 years ago at the age of 16 and eleven twelfths. Lets all support the one and only team cos none of us would go elsewhere, would we?? COME ON YOU COBBLERS!!!!!
Tales of Reading Goal at 18:47:2 Thursday August 24 2000
I cant remember who wrote that so I hope it was Milton and it was Reading. To be honest it was nice first time seeing their new ground but lets be honest i am not that excited about going back later in the season re where it is located, I know 6fields is a bit out of the way but its in virtual civilisation! You cant beat dingy town centre pubs before a match!!! Unfortunatley I cant remember much about our past away visits to Reading - too pissed and never got a free biscuit!!
Loyal Supporters at 18:44:13 Thursday August 24 2000
I was born 12 houses from the County Ground I havent lived there for years! When I shut my current front door at night is there any difference to me to some one who lives in say Duston (nothing wrong with Duston)in terms of them being a Cobblers supporter or not. Sixfield i hope is not oozing radiation that makes a difference to Northampton residents to us out of towners. Eastenders tonight will be the same in all our front rooms. I might have to travel a bit further on Saturday than most, for me thats my choice. I certainly do not differentiate between anyone who follows the `gods'! Its just the usual daft debate on here.
Nene Valley Cobbler at 17:51:14 Thursday August 24 2000
Thought we were awful against Wycombe but it was an excellent display against Fulham.
We'll probably do better against side that let us play and Gabbi's goal was pure quality,
not forgetting the pass from Forrester. I see Atkins has rocked the boat again with his
comments in the Daily Express - will the club actually go ahead with legal action though
if he has broken the terms of his severance agreement. Litigation tends to be a costly
business and surely we haven't got that much cash to fritter away. And what's Stonhill
going on about, blaming the media for the reserve match fiasco. If the issue wasn't
discussed at board level, as he claims, why then did the club put a press release out?
Is there a cannon on the loose at Sixfields or is there an element of buck passing taking place
once again?
PATTCOBB at 16:50:20 Thursday August 24 2000
Lucky us!!!..............I noticed in the Chronic Echo the other day Wycombe Wanderers fans were moaning about seat prices at Stoke's Britannia Stadium,now correct me if I'm wrong (I couldn't go because I couldn't afford to) but seats on the day at Adams Park were the same price,and I think we all would prefer the spacious and well appointed Stoke ground to Wycombe.My point is that Sixfields at 12 pounds up to 15 pounds admission appears to be good value, especially as I notice that Luton Down (not a mis-spelling) want 14 quid to sit in uncomfortable seats that have just been bunged on terracing with hardly any thought of fans comfort and vision( I seem to remember 2 seasons ago sitting behind a stanchion !).One wonders what sort of price range we will be paying on our travels this season.
Cheshire Cobbler at 14:4:46 Thursday August 24 2000
I am Northampton born but no longer live near the hallowed turf of Sixfields, where you live is imaterial, it's your support of the club and team that counts. Through football John McCarthy of Birmingham City and Northern Ireland is an acquaintance of mine and he always comments that supporters of the home town teams should be applauded, comments made as he sees me and my son in our Cobblers tops. Evidence that players in the game respect the support of the lower division clubs and that we help to pay their wages and for some giving them a stepping stone for bigger things. John also played for York and Port Vale so he knows what it is about and what oppurtunity they provided him. So why don't we all forget where we live and get on with supporting the team. PS Pickled Judge if you are reading this comments I made re formation and team selection that you supported (especially Howard in midfield) were played on Tuesday night and what solid performances were put in by Howard and Hughes. Perhaps Wilson is more of a tactician than certain people give him credit for.
Cheshire Cobbler at 14:4:44 Thursday August 24 2000
I am Northampton born but no longer live near the hallowed turf of Sixfields, where you live is imaterial, it's your support of the club and team that counts. Through football John McCarthy of Birmingham City and Northern Ireland is an acquaintance of mine and he always comments that supporters of the home town teams should be applauded, comments made as he sees me and my son in our Cobblers tops. Evidence that players in the game respect the support of the lower division clubs and that we help to pay their wages and for some giving them a stepping stone for bigger things. John also played for York and Port Vale so he knows what it is about and what oppurtunity they provided him. So why don't we all forget where we live and get on with supporting the team. PS Pickled Judge if you are reading this comments I made re formation and team selection that you supported (especially Howard in midfield) were played on Tuesday night and what solid performances were put in by Howard and Hughes. Perhaps Wilson is more of a tactician than certain people give him credit for.
Anon at 14:0:39 Thursday August 24 2000
Great one from MartinW describing his mate's loyalty - "cut him and claret blood would stain your carpet". err... yes I suppose it would.
Carl at 13:12:26 Thursday August 24 2000
Just had a butchers at the Sky Page and it would appear our 2nd leg against Fulham isn't on they are showing Cheltenham v Watford, I always thought they showed the 2nd leg as well.
Insider view at 10:47:8 Thursday August 24 2000
Loan announcement to be made soon experienced midfielder being lined up as a replacement for the injured Savage
Loyal Supporter at 10:43:52 Thursday August 24 2000
Well I was born in Newcastle, but am proud to call myself a Northampton lad. I would not even dream of supporting any other team than the Cobblers they have given me some great moments over the last 30 years. I would not dream of supporting anyone else, do not like premier league football, they are ruining the game for everyone else. But in the current debate am I considered to not to have the 'right credentials' to support the Cobblers. Would be interested to know what these 'credentials' are, surely everyone who turns out for the less glamorous games such as your Halifaxs or Carlises (no disrespect) or travels miles to see as many games as they can, fits into this category. Why should they have to actually live in Northampton? I for one feel that everyone who turns up regularly or as often as they can is a true Northampton supporter and the more the merrier as far as I am concerned. The only ones I do not want to see are the ones who only turn up for the 'big' games or to cause trouble, they can stay away. Come on Cobblers lets stuff Reading on Saturday.
Paul S at 10:36:54 Thursday August 24 2000
Yeah no doubt about it Hendon has some class about his play... However to often away from home he contributes nothing to a game. Too many times I've seen his first kick slice in to touch and know he'll be AWOL for the rest of the game. He also likes to form a partnership with another player, so Savage being moved about and injured hasn't helped his game sometimes.
pattcobbs secretary at 10:23:44 Thursday August 24 2000
Yes Ian Hendon is superb.Tell me , is he married.........?
PATTCOBB at 10:22:50 Thursday August 24 2000
Hello davcobbler et al.City fan was impressed we played the more penetrative football,according to him whereas Fulham's continental style slow build up was inaffective.MartinW........yes i agree with you.I hope thatMorrow does make it,but I believe that Thompson is the better prospect.By the way what has Spedding done wrong surely Frain in midfield and Spedding left back is a better option.Mind you if we could gamble and play all 3 strikers it is an exiting prospect,although I expect teams would wise up to our formation and leave us a little exposed at times with Howard on just behind the two frontrunners,and only 2 actual midfielders.Finally a statement.IAN HENDON IS SUPERB-so those that knock him DON'T HE IS BY FAR THE BEST RIGHT-BACK SEEN AT ANY TEAM IN THE LAST 5 YEARS .Yes that's right better than Norton,Clarkson,certainly Gibb and most opponents.
More Tales of Reading at 8:42:44 Thursday August 24 2000
I remember a wonderful volley from John Buchanan from outside the box - the ball came back from a corner, The Buke just hit it and it flew into the back of the net. Marvellous!
nsb at 8:33:19 Thursday August 24 2000
leave poor old martinW alone! you talk as if hes the only person ever to have criticised the team after a poor defeat.... which is what happened on saturday.... it was poor.... you talk as if hes the only person to have commented on how we could have done things better, as if hes the only one to suggest what formation or what team hed put out if he was in kevs shoes, and as for this debate about living outside of northants, now thats just being childish!
Cobbler in the West at 8:23:8 Thursday August 24 2000
Can we stop this stupid immature nonsense about credentials to support the Cobblers and get on with what matters, supporting the Cobblers.
To Oldham at 2:56:45 Thursday August 24 2000
I am glad you are pleased with Carlo we were some of the time, but its over the whole season that counts, I wish him well, I prefer people who try every game even when the match is not going our way.
% Man at 1:29:0 Thursday August 24 2000
Martin W who states that he is only on here for a small % of the time appears to be on here in fat wedges! Your comments are too long and getting boring.
Philip Hudson at 23:42:32 Wednesday August 23 2000
If I want to put a request to Pete mith to say over the taannoy how do I do it.
P.S. Its for Saturdays Game
Someonepretendingtobesomeoneelsefortheyarecowards at 23:13:58 Wednesday August 23 2000
Yah boo
adam m also at 23:4:9 Wednesday August 23 2000
it should have been harreaves in my opinion. he was everywhere. a great signing
Adam M at 23:2:21 Wednesday August 23 2000
Does anyone know who the NTFC Cobblers Man of the Match was. I was at the game and didn't hear the announcement. Also who was the Sky Man of the Match. Cheers Adam M
School Report at 23:0:36 Wednesday August 23 2000
When MartinW matures and this maturity is reflected in his writing, I think his real point of view will come accross.At the moment he hasnt the ability to put over fervour and passion without appearing to condemn and ridicule.Its not a personal attack MartinW but it will be interesting to see your future development.
Nasty Tony at 22:57:31 Wednesday August 23 2000
And you take the mickey.
MartinW at 22:51:40 Wednesday August 23 2000
Extreme expressive language? Totally slating the club? Have you ever written to Points Of View or Q by any chance.
Nasty Tony at 22:43:1 Wednesday August 23 2000
Me below (as if you couldn't guess)
Anon at 22:41:19 Wednesday August 23 2000
Ok MartinW I'll put it simply. You don't have to live in Northants to support The cobblers.OK? You get a lot of abuse on here because you hand out the abuse, and often at the club. I didn't appreciate your review of the game at Wycombe, because I spent a fairly depressing time watching it, and the last thing I needed was someone to come on here and totally slate The Cobblers. I'm not doubting your loyalty or whatever, but if you slag people off on here, including players, management etc., you have got to expect a like response. You use extreme, expressive language and you shouldn't get hurt when you get it back. I was there too.
MartinW at 22:15:43 Wednesday August 23 2000
Dublin Dennis - Ha ha ha ha ha ha! You are joking....aren't you?
MartinW at 22:11:4 Wednesday August 23 2000
Nasty Tony, certainly your comments were no different to a couple of others made on here, maybe they were all made by you. Perhaps not. Certainly, if you don't live in Northants, you should know better than to discount opinions because of geography. I know A Child's View was rather affronted at the fact that a lad (like he) who was born, raised in Northampton, had his bread buttered with Cobblers butter (cut him and claret blood would stain your carpet) could have his opinions dissed because he does not live in Northants. You forget, people like us travel further (often) to go to games and you need to be fairly committed (I'm writing from an asylum) probably more committed than the average fan who lives in Northampton to go to every game. It costs more. But then it's not about money, coz some have none and if they paid all their spending money on a Cobblers ticket, he (or she) would put us all to shame. The fact is that 3,800 went to the Fulham game. I was there, A Child's View was there as were others who did not live in Northants. We bothered to go, because we love the club. What happened to all those that sat in their Northampton homes watching the Fulham game on Sky. We write the crap we write, coz we have some crazy notion that we love the club. That's why I stupidly decided to put video clips on matches on the net. Why? Coz I want other fans who can't go to the game to catch a glimpse of what happened. Coz, there seemed some interest. I don't get anything out of it. Apart from some satisfaction that maybe somone will get some enjoyment out of it and that Cobblers fans who can't get to the game can sample some of the action. Nobody else is doing it. Having said all that, there is bound to be some sad bastard who will say that A Child's View is me in disguise. As has happened before. Do views like mine matter. Of course not. I don't pretend they do. Yet a small number on here (possibly only one) thinks that I think they do. It's a debating forum. Wake up.
The Old Block at 21:57:7 Wednesday August 23 2000
Music is okay so long as Chipp don't come back!
Walter Wall at 21:55:56 Wednesday August 23 2000
Bugger they are back on footie, although I did see a reference to Morrow being 'alternative', is that like indie?
Dublin Dennis at 21:54:41 Wednesday August 23 2000
Yeah but MartinW you don't go to the reserve games do ya? I'd put Morrow ahead of Thompson as he fits in to the team. Thompson is still a bit of a maverick and puts his head down and runs. Why am I bothering you don't even live in the County.
Mike Hunt at 21:52:8 Wednesday August 23 2000
You're always bickering Nasty Tony you're as bad as Chas!
MartinW at 21:52:0 Wednesday August 23 2000
Am I the only one who is surprised that Andy Morrow is ahead of Ryan Thompson in the pecking order. Young Morrow was on the bench as an alternative striker for the Fulham game. Yet has anyone seen anything that makes you think he can cut it when he has had his chances. He seems drastically short of pace and can't rely or his strength yet, although when he gets older he may develop. Thompson has a lot more to him, it seems, from the times I have seen him. Anyone got any views. Apart from abusing me.
Nasty Tony at 21:49:55 Wednesday August 23 2000
Although it must be boring for everyone else, MartinW can't resist the jibe about me supposedly saying you have to live in Northampton to support the Cobblers. I never said that. In his report after the Wycombe game he slated The Cobblers and praised Wycombe. I suggested he sopported them instead, also pointing out the covenience as he lives round there. His mate, A child's view, weighed in with the same fury, again saying it doesn't matter where you live. He must be as confused as MartinW, as he then went on to give his Northampton credentials, as if it did matter. MartinW also said he never suggusted we hoofed the ball up at the Wycombe game, but his exact words were "The way we were playing it would have been better to play 5-2-3 and bypass the midfield completely.". To praise myself, I later said the Fulham game would be much better as they would alow us to play, and I thought we would win. Sorry to keep up the bickering, but I've got to defend myself. I don't live in Northants either.
Dave at 21:48:33 Wednesday August 23 2000
Chas - I'm thinking 'bout blowing you out, 'cos you won't stop talking! Why don't you give it a break?
BritPop at 21:45:41 Wednesday August 23 2000
BritGals dad?
chas at 21:45:25 Wednesday August 23 2000
ha ha ha. ur all very funny. now, is any1 going to answer this question?
Pickled Judge Dread at 21:45:17 Wednesday August 23 2000
!
TRB Mark at 21:44:51 Wednesday August 23 2000
Tom Robinson Band?
Phil & The Baron Knights at 21:44:25 Wednesday August 23 2000
!
Desmond DEKker at 21:43:20 Wednesday August 23 2000
!
Big Roy Orbison at 21:42:59 Wednesday August 23 2000
!
Johnny Ray at 21:42:38 Wednesday August 23 2000
!
Gene Vincent at 21:42:22 Wednesday August 23 2000
!
Carl and The Passions at 21:42:0 Wednesday August 23 2000
!
Watch out there's a muso about! at 21:40:15 Wednesday August 23 2000
Tut, tut and this a footie site!
Blockhead at 21:38:37 Wednesday August 23 2000
How would you like one puffing and blowing your ear'ole?
BobTail at 21:37:14 Wednesday August 23 2000
Bunny, bunny, bunny, bunny, bunny, bunny, bunny, bunny, bunny, bunny, bunny, bunny, bunny, bunny, bunny, bunny, bunny, bunny, bunny, bunny, bunny, bunny, bunny, bunny, bunny, bunny, bunny, bunny, bunny, bunny, rabbit, bunny, bunny, rabbit.
CowSon at 21:35:10 Wednesday August 23 2000
You've got more rabbit than Sainsbury's - Rabbit, rabbit, rabbit, rabbit, rabbit, rabbit, rabbit,rabbit, rabbit, rabbit, rabbit, rabbit, rabbit, rabbit, rabbit, rabbit, rabbit, rabbit, rabbit, rabbit, rabbit, rabbit,rabbit, rabbit, rabbit, rabbit, rabbit, rabbit, rabbit, rabbit, rabbit, rabbit, rabbit, rabbit, rabbit, rabbit, rabbit,rabbit, rabbit, rabbit, rabbit, rabbit, rabbit, rabbit, rabbit, rabbit, rabbit, rabbit, rabbit, rabbit, rabbit, rabbit,rabbit, rabbit, rabbit, rabbit, rabbit, rabbit, rabbit, rabbit, rabbit, rabbit, rabbit, rabbit, rabbit, rabbit, rabbit,rabbit, rabbit, rabbit, rabbit, rabbit, rabbit, rabbit, rabbit, rabbit, RABBIT!
Anon at 21:10:18 Wednesday August 23 2000
or Jeeves
Gertcha! at 20:55:44 Wednesday August 23 2000
Ask Dave!
chas at 20:31:30 Wednesday August 23 2000
how much is it to sponser a) a match, b) a player?
Carl at 20:21:54 Wednesday August 23 2000
You are more than welcome
EVER GRATEFUL at 20:3:44 Wednesday August 23 2000
Thankyou very much for Carlo Corrazin-
Thankyou very much,thankyou very,very much.
Thankyou very much for Carlo Corrazin-
Thankyou very,very,very much.
Paul at 16:58:11 Wednesday August 23 2000
Well as I said last night, Kevin Wilson stated on the radio after the game it was a 5-2-3 formation!
Curious at 16:45:50 Wednesday August 23 2000
Mr Wootton.....why do yo feref to yourself as "The Pickled Judge"!
Marco at 16:43:50 Wednesday August 23 2000
forrester. Quite deservedly I think. Watched the game in a pub down here in london. Surrounded by Fulham fans who were less than impressed with their line-up but thought we played well. They agreed that Forrester in particular was outstanding. I thought hargreaves also stood out.
Pickled Judge at 16:37:48 Wednesday August 23 2000
Who was Sky m.o.m?
Richard at 16:34:26 Wednesday August 23 2000
Yes, I think it was more of a flat back five (if that is possible) with Hunt and Hargreaves playing really well in midfield. The front two did work very hard at stopping the Fulham defenders & midfield building from the back. MoM Hargreaves, he really put himself about.
Tactical at 16:6:20 Wednesday August 23 2000
Nah! It was five at the back. Hendin and Frain full-backs and three centre-backs, Hughes, Green and Hope. Howard wasn't in the 'hole' as much as I would have preferred so we had three in midfield. Mind you the work Jaime and Gabs put in they made if five in midfield at times.
marco at 15:43:21 Wednesday August 23 2000
disagree rodney. Looked to me that we were playing three centre backs with frain and hendon as wing-backs. It was more like 5-2-1-2 in my opinion
marco at 15:41:49 Wednesday August 23 2000
Andy Morrow is in the Northern Ireland Under-21 squad for their game against Malta on Sept 1st.
Rodney Marshall(Moaning Cobbler) at 15:24:1 Wednesday August 23 2000
It wasn't 5-3-2 last night. We played a back four with Hope at left back and Frain in the midfield. More like a 4-3-1-2 with Howard as the 1. Excellent performance, good coverage by Sky. A good night for the club. How good was Hargreaves?! Top performance. Delighted to see two young defenders - Hope and Hughes - doing so well.
Richard at 15:21:54 Wednesday August 23 2000
Yes, he was taken off in the second half. By the way I though Steve Howard had a really good game last night and while Savage is out he should keep his place inbetween midfield and attack.
Hotel Ender at 14:38:2 Wednesday August 23 2000
Wasn't Gabbiadini subbed against Brentford? If so, then that blows that theory out of the water.
DavCobbler at 14:10:38 Wednesday August 23 2000
TAles of Reading.........The bloke you mentioned, "tank"......Had the good fortune (???) to meet this bloke on a trip to Spain with England. The only things that kept me alive during this meeting were my Northampton connections. The bloke is/was an absolute headcase of the first degree. i felt like asking him why he followed Man U, but decided against it in fear of losing one or more limbs. PattCobb, how do matey, what did the City fan think ????
PATTCOBB at 12:25:48 Wednesday August 23 2000
RUMOUR..............LYNNE WISON(WILCON HOMES AND COUNTY CRICKET)IS PAYING GABBIADINI"S WAGES.....................
nsb at 11:56:51 Wednesday August 23 2000
perhaps marco doesnt have anything in writing, but maybe kev doesnt want to upset him by subbing him.......... maybe jamie was just tired? he had run his socks off for 80 minutes.......... better to have him fresh for saturday, which is more important after all!
PATTCOBB at 11:54:49 Wednesday August 23 2000
ANYBODY KNOW ADMISSION PRICES FOR FULHAM.IS IT STILL TERRACING?SURELY IF AL FAYED COURTS A PREMIERSHIP PLACE HE NEEDS SOME SERIOUS GROUND IMPROVEMENTS.THEREFORE IS THE GROUND CAPACITY LOWERED..........IT USED TO BE ONE OF THE CHEAPEST GROUNDS WE WENT TO.ALSO WHEN DOES THE LAST NORTHAMPTON TRAIN LEAVE LONDON AT NIGHT IN MIDWEEK?
MR M .AL FAYED at 11:44:17 Wednesday August 23 2000
BOLLOCKS!
AS YOU BEAT US LAST NIGHT..IAM GOING TO BUY YOUR GROUND AT ITS
CURRENT MARKET VALUE. MY CHEQUE FOR £5.73 (INC vat) IS IN THE POST!
Carl at 11:29:11 Wednesday August 23 2000
Martin, do you really, honestly believe that Gabbiadini could have a 'Don't substitute me' clause in his contract? That would seem most absurd to me.
Tales of the Riverbank at 8:17:36 Wednesday August 23 2000
No, I went fishing instead!
Tales of Reading at 6:41:21 Wednesday August 23 2000
Back in those good old days we set off for ELm Park which like most grounds was leagues ahead of the Count Ground. It was the 70s as was the weather and we had our usual 4 hours in the pub after loads of beer on the coaches that left from near the Town Hall. When we got to the ground and we were busy focusing on our first impressions of the ground and what was a full house (I think)there was a huge commotion in the Reading end for some reason Man U fans had turned up with a Northampton Red called Tank and were in their end...... Were you at the match???
Terry Hawes at 3:47:17 Wednesday August 23 2000
Congrats lads! You've done us proud, and we won the Northampton way with heart and character...Fulham may field a better side for the second leg, but Tigana probably doesn't care...the Premiership is #1 for them.
Feels good to see the Fulham fans eat humble pie, their website thought they would destroy us...hopefully we can finish them.
GO COBBLERS!
Cheers from Canada,
Terry Hawes
MartinW at 2:6:17 Wednesday August 23 2000
Firstly, the main action from the game can now be seen in Real Player on www.martinwilliams.free-online.co.uk
Secondly, as well as we played, it was very disappointing to witness such a lack of atmosphere at Sixfield, with just 3,800 in the ground. I guess everyone was watching on Sky. Well at least some of us from Aylesbury and surrounding area care enough to go. I know some fans seem to think that we 'outsiders' don't deserve to be part of the club. Ha ha. The line up took a lot of getting used to. 5-3-2 but what made it work this time was that Howard playing in central midfield, but pushing into the hole in front of Gabby and Forrester, was allowing Hendon and Frainy to get more into the game by holding up the ball. He had chances to score too. Something I suggested could have been done during the Wycombe game. It was an experiment that worked, although big Stevey did run out of steam. But my man of the match, and probably player of the last three games is undoubtedly Chris Hargreaves. He's the unsung hero. His crosses, his battling, his tricky skills and his energy are a boon to the side. Richard Hope is getting better and better. It wasn't long ago I remember him lacking confidence with players avoiding giving himthe ball, because all he could do was boot it. Now he defends tightly, is strong in the air and has learnt to play the ball simply. Young Hughes made one embarrassing mistake, but to his credit it did not phase him, and lets face it he was defending against nobodies and then he gets Boa Morte, former Prem player coming at him. Sure, Fulham did not play a full strength side, but there was still internationals and lots of money in that side. It amazed me that Forrester was taken off, he ran himself daft. But then Gabby must have something in his contract, I guess. I was worried about the cautious start and people around me were a bit bemused by the formation. It certainly seems that if we are to play 5-3-2 we need to play Howard, coz he gives us that physical presence when the long ball is played. Undoubtedly we will play this system against REading and hopefully the players will just get used to it. We had long ball and direct passing against Fulham but we also had short passing football. Whereas Fulham liked to play pretty football. They did not seem to have the steel on the day. Anyway, it will be interesting if Saha, Collins, Hayles and Coleman play in the next game. 1-0 is not a bad result and lets face it with Forrester and Gabby up front we are always capable of nicking goals. And how often have we been able to say that.
Ray at 2:0:24 Wednesday August 23 2000
My team prediction was pretty close...
Ray at 1:59:29 Wednesday August 23 2000
Forgetting to mention that 5 of these "reserves" are full internationals of course! Nothing like a sore loser!!
Wise up cobblers at 1:19:45 Wednesday August 23 2000
On a positive note, whilst I have driven a large mileage to see the instantly forgettable, I admire St Jean for his strategy. I think there are no teams in the lower divisions, and very few in the Prem, which would field 10 reserves with 4 ressies on the bench. This was done in spite of a 100% record and in spite of Sky being there. The mans got class.
.............. at 23:59:2 Tuesday August 22 2000
I think Hughes had a pretty good game!!
.............. at 23:58:19 Tuesday August 22 2000
I thinkHughes had a pretty good game!!
Rachel at 23:54:35 Tuesday August 22 2000
any news on Samo's injury??
My old mans a Cobbler. at 23:42:3 Tuesday August 22 2000
Hughes? will somebody give me the line up aswell please.
Paul at 23:31:28 Tuesday August 22 2000
Kev described it as a 5-2-3 formation on the Radio after!
nsb at 23:25:51 Tuesday August 22 2000
our formation remained 5-3-2, but with stevie in the middle my one lateration would be to remove one of the center backs..... hate to say this hughesey after you played so well, but this will give a us a chance to play more wide stuff which we didnt do enough of, hodge on the right and hargreaves on the left......
NSB at 23:19:40 Tuesday August 22 2000
Great game!!! i thought that offensively we looked sharp, save a few miscued passes, something to work on in training, good to see hughes in the side, he didnt look out of place although his two minor slip ups nearly cost us..... BUT HEY if garry neville can make the same mistake twice in one match and still play for england then we can forgive gazza (hughes that is!) a litte slip up which DIDNT cost us......
My old mans a Cobbler. at 23:17:43 Tuesday August 22 2000
Not long in from work,well done to the lads,I guess they will put the first team out in the second leg to save face.Does anyone think Kev will keep faith with 4-3-3 against Reading [they only drew 1-1 with Orient tonight]Can somebody describe Marco's goal for me please.
Carl at 23:11:33 Tuesday August 22 2000
Midnightish I believe
TRB Mark at 23:3:46 Tuesday August 22 2000
Good game tonight. I thought we were equal to Foolham for three quarters of the game until the west stand lino and the ref decided that they should join the Cottagers quest of an equalizer. I forsook my usual seat inthe North stand for a a seat in the south end of the west. Well, give me the North stand any day as there is no atmosphere and little singing. All the noise came from the north where it looked (and sounded) like to a fan they were singing. On another note, did anyone see the C4 filn "Twin Town" last night? What a load of rubbish!. At least it explains the attitude of the Swansea pond life we get on here.
Not wishing to put a damper on things but . . . at 23:1:29 Tuesday August 22 2000
Good performance tonight and although Fulham hit the woodwork twice I reckon we deserved the win. I have to say that I was dissappointed that this was virtually a reserve team Fulham put out, I'm not sure how Sky feel about that and I know I certainly felt cheated as I expected to see at least one first teamer out there. Will the league take any action? Peschisolido was crap, but then again I've always thought he was crap, not a patch on Forrester or Gabbi. Hargreaves and Hunt outstanding. Hope turned in another excellent performance and Howard for Lily suits me fine, Howard gave us more options and his mere presence knocked Fulham out of their stride.
Paul at 22:55:2 Tuesday August 22 2000
Just checked, however, I note it's not got all the Pre-Match hype... So if anyone can help with the full show I would really really be very thankfull!
Paul at 22:51:51 Tuesday August 22 2000
What time carl? My Sky is working now! :)) Though I'm off to buy an On-Digital Box tomorrow!
ORBITAL Ganja at 22:48:34 Tuesday August 22 2000
1-0 a good result against the side who are top of the Nationwide league. Game was pretty even, but we just about edged for chances created. Welch again in fine form, making some tremendous stops. A very, very, very early candidate for player of the season. The attendance well, firstly it was on TV, then there are loads of people on holiday, then other people were skint after their holiday, then there were the people watching Big Brother on the internet, the list goes on. Personally for those watching on TV, you can't beat the atmosphere of a live game!
Carl at 22:41:35 Tuesday August 22 2000
If your Sky is fixed it is on later tonight
Paul at 22:38:58 Tuesday August 22 2000
Hey there, Great game, however I return home to find my Sky unit has gone wrong!! ARGH!! PLEASE PLEASE does someone have the whole programme on tape? I really really wanted to see it after having seen it live, I am gutted! Worst thing is Sky were totally useless and wouldn't even say sorry, claiming it must have been me knocking my Sky Box! (Which considering I was at the game was pretty tough!)
Sean from London at 22:26:40 Tuesday August 22 2000
Hi Britgal & everyone
I only saw the second half too - spent most of the first trying get the pub opposite my work to turn onto the right side. Should be a good night at Fulham!! Why was the attendence so low (less than 4,000). Good to see the ex-cobbs scoring all over the place - Carlo, Freestone, Parrish and some Woodman own-goals!
Phil BAron at 22:12:35 Tuesday August 22 2000
Well played and a good game to watch.Fulham were to bad to be believed really. I think the return leg will be fun to watch!!
britgal at 21:55:2 Tuesday August 22 2000
cracking game! well, i thought it was, then again, my analysis may not be very good, as i was watching on tv, and my mother watched ellen for the first half hour. )i'm not speaking to her for a week now!) but forrester was amazing, and Frain was very good! it was close at the end tho, when they had about 5 corners in a row...
Carl at 21:39:28 Tuesday August 22 2000
1 - 0 final score. Good performance, don't know if anyone is still there but what the hey. UP THE COBBLERS!!!!
Carl at 21:22:22 Tuesday August 22 2000
Cobblers winning 1 - 0 Howard just hit the post, other than that what do you want to know?
latest wanted at 21:20:20 Tuesday August 22 2000
can anyone post any latest scores
Carl at 21:1:8 Tuesday August 22 2000
We're still doing alright. Just poked Boa Morte in the eye. They are getting in to it a little. Still 1 - 0
Carl at 20:53:19 Tuesday August 22 2000
They have scored
Carl at 20:45:55 Tuesday August 22 2000
It's been half time since 8:30 so how did they score. Just seen the big dice, it looks good on telly :-)
Oh no Fulham just equalised at 20:43:55 Tuesday August 22 2000
S..t!
Oldham 1 at 20:43:25 Tuesday August 22 2000
Corrazin scored and Curaton scored on debut for Reading!
Carl at 20:36:39 Tuesday August 22 2000
Good first half, closing them down well. We had far more chances. Still 1 - 0
Anon at 20:36:13 Tuesday August 22 2000
Is it still 1:0????
Carl at 20:17:25 Tuesday August 22 2000
By the way we are playing 4 - 3 - 3 with Stevie, Forrester and Gabiadini upfront, although Howard is playing just behind the two forwards. Looks good as well.
Sean from London at 20:14:5 Tuesday August 22 2000
GOal!!!
Marco is on his way
Carl at 20:11:34 Tuesday August 22 2000
GABBIADINI TOP NOTCH COME ON!!!!!
Anon at 20:11:27 Tuesday August 22 2000
GGGGGGGGGGAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABBBBBBBBBBBBBBIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIAAAAAAAAAADDDDDDIIIIIIIINNNNNNNNNNNNNIIIIIIIII SCORES!!!!!!!!!!!
Carl at 20:11:11 Tuesday August 22 2000
1 - 0
RDFC 2 at 20:10:22 Tuesday August 22 2000
Going down Going Down Going Down,
Play you next year and thrash you next year.
Going down going down.
Carl at 20:10:13 Tuesday August 22 2000
Two good shots, one given offside that wasn't. Phelan just getting booked for smacking Gabbiadini, Gabbiadini gets booked for the tackle. Phelan should have gone.
Carl at 20:5:54 Tuesday August 22 2000
They have had one shot, we have just had a good one from Hargreaves, who has some natty sideburns on show. It's going ok at the moment. Tv peeps relatively impressed
Sean from London at 20:2:48 Tuesday August 22 2000
I need updates please! I am at work Radio Five have the MU/Ipswich game (Ipswich 1-0 up!). The pub opposite has the wrong Sky Channel on.
Carl at 19:55:42 Tuesday August 22 2000
Not a bad start, still 0 - 0, and Ipswich are beating Man U. I will keep you posted
skint and telly less at 19:45:0 Tuesday August 22 2000
carl, updates would be good
Carl at 19:39:53 Tuesday August 22 2000
Oh and a message for Jim in Cyprus, tape is on.
Carl at 19:38:45 Tuesday August 22 2000
Feckers are playing there reserves!!!!!!
Carl at 19:29:48 Tuesday August 22 2000
Anyone there require any kind of updates this evening, or is everyone watching TV or there?
Ray at 18:37:29 Tuesday August 22 2000
You go to the park then like a good little boy. In the meantime we'll all go to the football game. That OK little Robbie? You will be a good little boy won't you?
I am a Cobblers Fan but... at 18:36:10 Tuesday August 22 2000
To be honest its not that I want the boys to get beaten tonight but at this stage of the season I want them concentrating on the league, all that said come on you Cobblers (im fickle in my beliefs)
robbie at 17:36:18 Tuesday August 22 2000
gonna play you off the park tonight i bet youre quaking in your boooooootttssssss!!!!!!!! arghhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh1
My old mans a Cobbler. at 17:24:52 Tuesday August 22 2000
Yeah,go out there and snap up Daryl Clare,he could be a great link between midfield and attack aswell as his scoring ability.Working till half ten won't even know the score,never mind this is the price I have to pay to get time of for the reading and Bury games.
NASTY NICK FROM BIG BROTHER at 16:56:58 Tuesday August 22 2000
HELLO IVE HAD A VISION ITS US AND SPURS THERE AT THE END IN THE FINAL. GLAD TO GET OUT OF THAT F*CKING HOUSE,WASN'T THAT NICHOLA A SLAPPER?BEEN A FULHAM FAN ALL MY LIFE SEE YOU ALL TONIGHT.
Pickled Judge at 16:48:38 Tuesday August 22 2000
NSB: It is all-ticket but if you ring up and order one now you can collect it from Portacabin.
CHESHIRE COBB: Yes good idea I think about Howard. Do you not think Hodges is a good crosser? He could play for at least an hour I think. Is Chris Lee still at Gills? Where is David Seal now? I have a Ladbrokes bet for Forrester to score the only goal. I could win £610.00! Wish me luck guys. Oh yes and I am taking a 16 year old Gooner to his first match at Sixfields. COME ON YOU COBBLERS!
nsb at 16:2:56 Tuesday August 22 2000
my team for tonite: 442: Welch, Spedding-green-hope-hendon, hargreaves-hunt-howard-hodge, forrester-gabbiadini....... take heed kev this is the team which will kick fulhams arse! by the way no one has told me whether tickets are still available!
PATTCOBB at 15:27:29 Tuesday August 22 2000
Introducing a work mate (Man City fan) to the joys of Sixfields tonight,pretty relaxed really as we have little to lose,good draw I Tthink-almost like playing a premiership team,what with all the quality players they have.If the worst comes to the worst I have my excuses to rattle off......"No,they're not usually this crap(team),quiet(fans),ugly(stewards)""Ah well Fulham are virtually a top flight outfit" and "You really should watch a league match the atmosphere is much better,honestly. ANYWAY-CAN'T WAIT FOR THE SECOND LEG COME ON COBBS KEEP IT AT LEAST CLOSE TONIGHT SO WE CAN ALL GET P122ED IN LONDON WITH JUST A GLIMMER OF HOPE ..............
Cheshire Cobbler at 15:20:26 Tuesday August 22 2000
As no one commented otherwise, assume everyone is in favour of playing Howard in midfield to put himself about and win the ball, rather than chase it for 90 minutes ala Frain and Hunt. Hargreaves is a breath of fresh air but needs some to win it and give him the ball to attack with. At the moment Hargreaves is having to win the ball from to deep a position and is not getting the opportunity to put crosses in. If recollection serves me right he was acquired for his crossing ability, lets give the man a sporting chance and let him have the opportunity to bang a few crosses in. lets play a 442 formation including Howard and use Hargreaves down the left flank.
Mr Picky at 15:0:36 Tuesday August 22 2000
What is a Palyer ARE BUT.......
Daryl Clare at 14:59:1 Tuesday August 22 2000
The bastard who kept me at Blundell Park has been sacked now,Kev will you please come and buy me as Mr Buckley has gone!!!!! I want to play your kind of football and I think I can fit in well with the tactics and of course the fans. I HOPE THIS SENDS THE ALARM BELLS RINGING LOUD ENOUGH FOR YOU KEV!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Are but....... at 14:54:3 Tuesday August 22 2000
As Lee wasn't sold for a million any player can still be tipped to be the first million pound player to be sold by the Cobblers. Hopefully no other palyer will be tipped this way as it's the kiss of death.
BIG JIM at 14:53:27 Tuesday August 22 2000
I am going to work tonight so I cannot see the match! I`ll be listening on Five Live and I will be cheering the boys on,It is about 25 degrees C out here at night in Cyprus so I`ll be sweating like hell for two reasons now!!! Go on boys let`s see you turn it on for the Cameras.
BIG JIM at 14:53:19 Tuesday August 22 2000
I am going to work tonight so I cannot see the match! I`ll be listening on Five Live and I will be cheering the boys on,It is about 25 degrees C out here at night in Cyprus so I`ll be sweating like hell for two reasons now!!! Go on boys let`s see you turn it on for the Cameras.
Argumentative at 14:42:53 Tuesday August 22 2000
Christian Lee was tipped to be our first Million pound player to be sold!
Cheshire Cobbler at 14:11:49 Tuesday August 22 2000
Saturday's game was both dissapointing and frustrating especially after a 3 plus hour drive to get there. In my opinion Wilson has two main problems, wingbacks that cannot distibute the ball, Hendon to often inaccurate with his passes and Spedding who is woefully one footed. The other is a light weight midfield, with Frain, Hargreaves, and Hunt they need an additional midfielder to squeeze the space, if he wants to play 3 in midfield he needs some strength and with Hunter injured he should give Howard ago in the middle of midfield to install a bit of bite. Howard would make a nuisance, would win the ball in the air and would create defences problems with his height if he is arriving late in the box. Radical maybe, but i am football coach myself and certainly would give it ago. Garry Hughes needs to be utilized more, Wilson needs to get him league experience now before our existing centrebacks require replacing, there is nothing better than to play with experienced players, look what Sammo and Green have done to Hope, who was by far the best Cobblers player on view on Saturday and gets better all the time. Hunter was once tipped as the Cobblers first £1 million transfer, but if Hope continues to progress I can see him attracting interest at a higher level and you have read it here first, he WILL be the Cobblers first £1 million player, Garry Hughes can follow him if Wilson is brave enough to play him. Good luck tonight and I Hope we will put in a good performance tonight with a win to boot as well.
nsb at 13:42:59 Tuesday August 22 2000
i have every confidence that marco will score a hat trick tonight! by the way are there tickets available or am i going to have to watch on sky as a result of my indescisiveness?
A Childs View at 12:59:41 Tuesday August 22 2000
Day off work today. Wish I was there though, might stop me worrying about Hayles, Saha, Collins, fat Egyptians and co. Remember West Ham, remember West Ham, remember West Ham - aaaarrrrrrghhhh!! This form of self-help is not proving effective! My hope is that we don't get walloped as this could really knock the confidence before the weeks bigger game against Reading on Saturday. I'd suggest 4-4-2, all out attack and defending by playing the game in the Fulham half - 60 yards from our goal should just about do it!!! Come on you Cobblers, make it a night to remember, not one where I have to defend another unimaginative 5-3-2 display to my work mates. Lets get stuck in and, at worst, lose having given it a good go!! Come on the town!!
SUNDERLAND COBBLER at 12:34:15 Tuesday August 22 2000
GOOD LUCK TP THE BOYS TONIGHT! 1-0 VICTORY I HOPE. YOU NEVER KNOW THAT THAT EGYPTAIN BLOKE MIGHT GET STOPPED FROM GETTING HIS PASSPORT AS WELL!
VIVA LA REVOLUTION. DAVE.E
at 11:58:29 Tuesday August 22 2000
Martin Kingston at 11:51:11 Tuesday August 22 2000
Good luck Cobblers, do us proud and beat Fulham 2-0
BIG JIM at 11:33:33 Tuesday August 22 2000
MARTIN W,when I try to download your site all I get is some south park shit.Please can you tutor?
nsb at 8:29:57 Tuesday August 22 2000
nice one ray!
nsb at 8:29:21 Tuesday August 22 2000
martinW i must say the quality of the wycombe clip is quite poor compared to the brentford ones!
Ray at 8:19:12 Tuesday August 22 2000
They have to spit on them because they can never be licked.
GA at 8:2:7 Tuesday August 22 2000
DID YOU HEAR THAT NORTHAMPTONSHIRE'S POST OFFICES HAD TO RECALL THERE LATEST STAMPS??? THEY WERE THE N.T.F.C. PROMOTION STAMP AND PEOPLE DIDN'T KNOW WHICH SIDE TO SPIT ON !!
One Sixteenth! at 6:55:9 Tuesday August 22 2000
Martin W how can one avoid your comments they were the 2 last ones yesterday, is this you site?
MartinW at 0:0:12 Tuesday August 22 2000
I hope to have footage from the Fulham game on the site by Wednesday morning. Lets hope that we are not too negative and play like we did at Wycombe, or we could get a battering. 4-4-2 anyone?
MartinW at 23:57:52 Monday August 21 2000
Porkie Pie - If you don't like em don't read em. It's like if you don't like the TV prog, switch off. My comments add up to a mere fraction of the whole. There is no argument about that. It's a fact.
britgal at 22:36:54 Monday August 21 2000
i thought jamie's kid was cute. i thought it was annoying that all their girlfriends look like models tho!
predictions for the fulham match? mine's 1-1, forrester (21)
Joe at 20:46:37 Monday August 21 2000
Alan Parry was so offensive about us on Saturday that one of our director's grabbed him by the collar....Wycombe's chairman had to apologise to all the Cobblers directors for Parry being so bloody rude. And guess who is commentating tomorrow night? Shall we all send him our best wishes?
PORKY PIE at 20:41:42 Monday August 21 2000
Martin W you said that your comments was only a fraction of the comments on here, i'm referring you to the monopolies commission, your comments are everywhere and fat ones at that! Youre not Ian Atkins in disguise are you??
MartinW at 19:18:46 Monday August 21 2000
Oh, and the main action from our first two games should now be available for anyone to see on streaming video (Real Player) and to download on the cobblers portal on my site www.martinwilliams.free-online.co.uk
It's not competing with anyone because nobody else is doing this and there is direct link to Cobblers Comments. If anyone has any problems in viewing the clips, let me know.
Baffled at 19:17:54 Monday August 21 2000
and another thing . . . Ray - How can you put our most effective defender, Hope, on the bench? We'll be up against Saha and Hayles a brace of whippets if ever there was!
There, I've said it!! at 19:15:6 Monday August 21 2000
Savage plays well for a bout six or seven games a season. My mate's mum could probably deputise and we would be none the worse. Most of you have rose coloures spectacles when it comes to Dave Savage. Don't tell me how talented he is or what potential he has, it's bloody consistency of performance that is required and expected.
MartinW at 19:7:33 Monday August 21 2000
The size of our squad, which I have gone on about for a while now, is a major factor. The problem is that if you lose Savage, and there is nothing to say that he is long term injured yet, you have not got adequate cover. There is the added factor that some players do need the motivation of competition for places, or they become complacent, knowing that there is nobody breathing down their neck for a first team slot. It is no surprise that Kevin Wilson will have to go into the loan market to strengthen his squad just two games into the new season. The surprise is that is coming so soon. No doubt the loan factor was something Wilson would have hoped would be something he would only call on on a later emergency.
What is more worrying, I think is the Lee Howey injury flairing up again, as we are really desperate to have cover in central defence.
I was surprised to hear that Wilson had said during pre-season that his squad may not be big enough to last the campaign.
Still, the response from Wilson to Saturday's events has been realistic.
“The thing that really disappoints me is that we’ve not really created an out and out chance," he said.
“I’m disappointed with the performance and it’s down to myself, the coaching staff and the players to put it right, and we have to do that quickly.”
Sean from London at 19:4:21 Monday August 21 2000
Are there any exiled Cobblers supporters watching the match tomorrow in a London pub?
Rachel at 18:52:32 Monday August 21 2000
Brigital, did u think their kids were sweet? I thort they were Jamies son looked everso cute as he looked up2 Steve! Then Hope pretended 2 put his daughter in2 the bin! He woz only joking mind u!
britgal at 18:28:26 Monday August 21 2000
Hope was @ the balloon festival? Oh no! i got photos with all the rest and they signed my shirt but it would be good if hope could have. I'm not complaining tho, cos all my favourites were there: spedding, howard, etc.
BTW, did ne1 notice that they've taken up my brilliant idea of goal sponsership?? Ok, they probably nicked it from Torquay, like i did, but hey, i mentioned it on here first so i'll claim i thought of it!
Ray at 18:1:25 Monday August 21 2000
As Savage looks very doubtful then I agree.
My old mans a Cobbler. at 16:59:42 Monday August 21 2000
I could go with that Ray but have Thompson on the bench to come on for Hodge for the last 20 minutes to run at them.Lets go for all out attack,sod the consequences,its unlikely we'll get through anyway.
marco at 16:48:23 Monday August 21 2000
fair point Anon, as I said I would go with spedding and hendon but both need to improve on Saturday's performance
Ray at 16:41:48 Monday August 21 2000
As our midfield - in common with other seasons - appears to be none existant, why not play 433 with Howard in the centre feeding both Gabby and Jamie? My team for Tuesday: Welch, Hendon, Sampson, Green, Frain, Hodge, Hunt, Hargreaves, Forrester, Gabbiadini, Howard. On the bench: Sollitt, Hope, Spedding, Hughes, Savage (if fit)
Anon at 16:2:5 Monday August 21 2000
Marco - don't think your full back option realistic, both your choices lack pace and this is a problem in the defence.
marco at 14:43:9 Monday August 21 2000
Disappointing perfomance on Saturday. We were definitely outfought by Wycombe. The tactics debate is an interesting one. Wilson has gone on record saying he favours 4-4-2 but has used 5-3-2 because it worked so well at the end of last season. Fair enough but I think it only really works with Howard in the team. Having invested so much in forrester and gabbiadini he probably feels he has to start with them and with that in mind I would rather see us play 4 at the back. Taking into account Savage's injury my team for Fulham would be Welch, Spedding, Sampson, Hope, Hendon, Hargreaves, Hunt, Frain, Hodge, Gabbiadini, Forrester. Spedding and Hendon have looked poor so far but we don't have too many other options, maybe Hope at left back and Hughes at right?
TWSP at 13:57:17 Monday August 21 2000
Justin Georcelin scored twice as the Cobblers under 17s got off to a winning start against Brentford on Saturday. The under 19s lost 3 - 0.
AWAY PROGRAMME MISPELLINGS at 13:31:55 Monday August 21 2000
WHO CAN EVER FORGET .............BROADLEY SAUNDERFOOT,TREVOR CLACK,(SLACK),TREVOR QUACK(QUOW),JON FRAN,JASON BURNSTEIN,PIL CARD and of course PETER PLEASURE
Oddmund Davik Otterlei at 13:26:53 Monday August 21 2000
Hello. I am a norwegian fan of the Cobblers. I wonder if the team is going to play in AWS this year.
Pickled Judge at 13:7:37 Monday August 21 2000
Ryan Giggs is a solution to a lot of our problems I think
Ray at 13:2:32 Monday August 21 2000
The reason for the Stoke game cancellation is because they have a claim under FA Rules that they can apply for a postponement if they have 3 players being called up. They have four. You cant apply with less than 3 missing.
Mystic Meg at 12:25:38 Monday August 21 2000
No-ones mentioned the Stoke home game being cancelled!!!! (or have i just missed it all!!) How come they can do this for players on international call ups and we couldnt with Carlo?? Spose this means it'll be done on a Tuesday nite now..Still, thats praps a good thing since there will probably not be as many Stoke supporters and thus might have a better effect on the Cobblers with our singing!!!!
My old mans a Cobbler. at 11:33:26 Monday August 21 2000
I haven’t been able to get to a computer for a few days,looking through the postings has made very interesting reading,especially yesterdays.You keep on keeping on Martin W,the people posting abusively do so because they are incapable of reasonable debate.It takes all sorts mate.As for the team,it looked tough before the season started,people seemed to be forgetting we were moving up a league to a higher standard of football.Kev made 4 great signings but we have to remember we have one or two mediocre players elsewhere.I was not at the game on Saturday and I would never openly abuse one of our players at a game but Spedding will never be a decent defender,he is only effective in the last 18 yards of the pitch whipping in fierce left footed crosses.Hendon,on his day,is a very good player,unfortunately he seems to have one good game and two bad.While Savage is out I think Hendon would be better used on the right side of midfield.In the Brentford game our defence looked a little ropey,we shouldn’t be playing so deep,putting more pressure on them,we should be using attack as our best form of defence.We should also be keeping the ball on the ground,this is where the likes of Gabbiadini,Forrester,Hargreaves,Hunt,Hodge etc are at their best. My team for the Fulham game Welch,Hughes Sammo Hope Frain,Hodge Hendon Hunt Hargreaves,Gabbiadini Forrester.Lets get up and at them and give them no time on the ball.Before anyone starts,I am not moaning,this is just my opinion,I am 100% behind the two Kevs and the team.Lets really turn up the temperature on Reading on Saturday.Does anyone know how the 17 and 19 year olds got on Saturday.
DavCobbler at 11:18:18 Monday August 21 2000
Pickled Judge..........sorry to dissagree but I think that Spedd should be making some runs.................not down the wing.......that is nowhere near far enough away for my liking. UTC....FTP
Danny at 11:12:17 Monday August 21 2000
And I have the programme from the Woodford friendly.
Dr No at 11:11:3 Monday August 21 2000
Savage on crutches needn't mean he is bad. This is a precaution prior to x-ray. It is also advisable to take the weight off of the injured joint and hasten recovery.
Pickled Judge at 11:6:32 Monday August 21 2000
I don't think we played well at all at Wycombe as personally I feel Brentford were a stronger side. I agree pretty much with everyone though, the two excellent strikers we have should not expect to deal with the long ball as neither are suited to it. That seems so obvious. We must have better balls in and I think Hodge is a good idea (probably not for ninety minutes though) and Spedding should make more runs down the wing.
Tony at 10:3:31 Monday August 21 2000
With Fulham to come and the Reading, we need to improve 100% to stand a chance of getting anything from the next 2 games! It's looking tough already!
Tony at 10:2:14 Monday August 21 2000
Todays Chron says Howey's knee has flared and he may need a second opperation! Sav looks bad, left Wycombe on crutches! Thanks Steve Brown you Ba$!£rd !!!
My old mans a Cobbler. at 10:0:17 Monday August 21 2000
Re:Roger 9.12 o Wed Aug 16th,You posted asking for details on pre season programmes,I'm afraid I can't help with details but I do have programmes for the M.K. and Nuneaton games you are welcome to.If you want them,post the board with your E-mail address and I'll contact you for your address.
Rachel (Re:Savages injury) at 9:44:47 Monday August 21 2000
When Savage came off on Saturday, he went 2 get treatment, + came bak later on crutches with a knee support. Thats all that I know a knee promlem, he seemed 2 b finding it painful 2 walk, well thats wot it looked like from where I was.
Rachel (Re: who was @ the baloon festival?) at 9:38:44 Monday August 21 2000
There was, Jamie Forrester, Duncan Spedding, Andy Morrow, James Gould, Steve Howard, Richard Hope + Kev Wilson. I had my photo taken with Steve + Jamie + agree totally with u Brigital! Mind u, Steves nice too!
Cobbler in the West at 9:19:13 Monday August 21 2000
I think I made a balanced comment about Hendon.
Good Memory at 9:8:42 Monday August 21 2000
Its not fair at this stage of the season to slag off Hendon. If you remember last year against Fullham he got man of the match. A reliable insider informed me that he isn´t fit but they still continue to play him.
Cobbler in the West at 8:58:1 Monday August 21 2000
Was in a penalty or not? Too late now. I wasn't at the game but the tv replay shows Hendon in another demonstration of his poor defending abilities on the wrong side of Jones and getting caught out badly. Hendon is an exciting player going forward but all too often his defending is not up to the standard required. He goes AWOL too often. I can see why we have been connected with the Birmingham defender Bass over the summer. But other players were also not good enough on the day and we musn't delude ourselves about obvious shortcomings in teh squad.
Anon at 8:17:57 Monday August 21 2000
A Childs View - All are very welcome to support the Cobblers from Adelaide to Alesbury. In fact Bucks has always produced a lot of Cobblers supporters, especially the northern half of the county. This has been recognised recently with the opening of a Cobblers store in the MK shopping centre.
Gwen at 8:7:39 Monday August 21 2000
It's always easy to make suggestions in retrospect but given Wycombe's lack of strike potential (no Sean Devine)and their poor show round goal, I would have reduced the central defenders to two and put Howard on behind Gabbiadini and Forester so that he could field those long balls and feed the strikers (to their feet) with those delicate accurate balls he's great at. He would also have been a striking threat himself. Great game by Hope and Hargreaves. We've got tons of ability - Up the Cobblers.
Cobblers Fans Team at 22:10:28 Sunday August 20 2000
The cobblers fan team today played in the worthington Fives in London, and although we lost to our counterparts at Fulham we have progressed to the next round with a bye (cos we turned up today) and now face chesterfield in round 2! Lets hope the first team do better on tuesday!
Bemused and off to bed at 21:33:48 Sunday August 20 2000
'myriad'!
To Britgal at 21:32:40 Sunday August 20 2000
Who else did you see at the Baloon Festival??
Phil Baron at 21:31:40 Sunday August 20 2000
Top of the tipsters league with maximum points its a pity I go the Wycombe score right!!
MartinW at 20:45:48 Sunday August 20 2000
ToMartinW - Have a little read through the archives and you will find that my input is but a tiny part of the miriad of contrasting views which grace Cobblers Comments.
Big Roy at 20:43:33 Sunday August 20 2000
Tony - you misunderstand me. I only sit bemused at the "in fighting" on this site. It's very early in the season and I really don't think there's much point slagging each other off, or the players, or Kevin Wilson at this stage. In fact, I never do see the point. Expressing personal opinions is healthy. Attacking anyone who has the balls to do so is not!
To Martin W at 20:10:29 Sunday August 20 2000
Is this site attached to you I am sure your views are interesting but they are the only views on here! At least Bog Head or is it Bristol Rovers with a fixation that he should be on the Cobblers site is not here, wait is that him back from p..h with some insight or news exclusive to the players lounge, and wheres Chipp Pan nee Fatt and his Bob Dylan poems?? My favorites are Papa and Goldie I could sleep with those funny `men'!
chas at 20:8:34 Sunday August 20 2000
how much does it cost to a) sponser a match?.... b) sponser a player, or a player's kit?.... thanx!
britgal at 20:3:23 Sunday August 20 2000
does ne1 have ne info on savage's injury?
britgal at 20:0:4 Sunday August 20 2000
That jamie forrester is a lovely fellow, isn't he! i saw him @ the balloon festival. he was with his girlfriend and a small child. I said to my brother: 'that man looks so much like Jamie forrester.' then, when he was signing autographs at the chron stand a little later, I realised it was him, and felt vaguely stupid! but i had a photo taken with him, so i was literally leaping around in joy for about half a hour!
Tony at 19:51:5 Sunday August 20 2000
Seen the incident now, sure he dived. However, Hendon put his arm out, and it was very messy. Pen all the way! Lets face it, we didn't get service to our forwards. If we had, we may have won 2-1!
MartinW at 19:0:34 Sunday August 20 2000
Ha ha ha, as if this is a rival site. It has to have the same content, which it does'nt. Also no money is being made. It's a free service. And it's painstaking.
Ray's Solicitor at 18:50:15 Sunday August 20 2000
I'm just off to serve MartinW with legal papers to claim money for advertising a rival site without Ray's permission. See you in court!!!!
MartinW at 18:18:50 Sunday August 20 2000
Footage of the 'disputed' penalty which Wycombe received to beat us yesterday is now available to have a look at alongside the goals from the Brentford game on http://www.martinwilliams.free-online.co.uk/
I'll be working on getting Real player clips on there as well.
GA at 15:0:6 Sunday August 20 2000
BRING BACK ATKINS !!!
Danny at 12:19:28 Sunday August 20 2000
Well, Hello Sparkler, where have you been? Oh I've got it, you've been hiding. Why? Because your team of expensive misfits yet again failed to get out of the Conference and our team of free transfers/cheap signings and loan players won the last 6 games of last season and got back into Division 2. But this morning after 2 games we have one point (one more than we had last season, same as we've had in previous seasons) and Direones beat Chester 2-0. Well theres a hell of long way to go. We may go down, we may just survive. We may finish mid-table, heck we may even go up, but one things for sure, just like the last 2-3 seasons, Direones will race ahead of the pack, be Champions elect by Christmas but finish 2nd, 3rd or 4th in May, and you'll be back under your stone. Thankyou
Danny at 12:13:56 Sunday August 20 2000
Having seen the penalty this morning on Sky, I have to say that the Wycombe player was definatly looking for it. Hendon made minimal contact but not enough to knock a player down the way he did.
A Childs View at 12:11:13 Sunday August 20 2000
To nice Tony - good idea to make your comments distinct from evil Tony's!! However, evil Tony, everyone could make friends if a more respectful dialogue could develop - then we'd have two nice Tony's contributing to CC!!
A Childs View at 12:5:22 Sunday August 20 2000
I've not been on CC for a while as I got a little tired of the nasty sniping comments fellow contributor's directed at one another from time from to time. Further to the Wycombe game, I thought I'd drop in and see if the communication skills on display have improved any - answer = absolutely not!!! Some of the comments levelled against Martin W are at best rude, at worst, downright offensive and insulting. Martin was there at the Wycombe game, I was sat next to him. We both watched the same match, from the same position, with the same desire to see the Cobblers win, but, have completely different views about the game's key incident - the penalty decision. Martin has already stated on CC that he didn't think it was a penalty, for me, it was the most clear cut bona fide penalty decision that has ever had to be given (it was the only decision Alcock did get right all game!) However, our difference in opinion is not a problem, we were not rude to each other (One of the people called Tony - I'm referring to you here!!), I listened to Martin's view, he listened to mine - we disagreed, simple as that. THIS IS THE BEAUTY OF FOOTBALL AND IT IS NOT A PROBLEM IF PEOPLE SEE THINGS IN DIFFERENT WAYS. ALL TOO OFTEN ON THIS SITE (NOT EVERYONE IS GUILTY OF THIS) COMMENTS AND ARGUMENTS ARE DELIVERED WITH TOO MUCH PASSION AND NOT ENOUGH DUE RESPECT FOR THE OPINIONS OF OTHERS. DISAGREEMENT AND THE HOLDING OF CONTRARY VIEWS IS GREAT - EMBRACE IT - ENCOURAGE IT - DARE I SUGGEST EVEN 'LISTEN' AND - JUST MAYBE - YOU MAY THINK SOMEONE HAS A POINT, I HADN'T CONSIDERED THE ISSUE FROM THAT PERSPECTIVE, I SHALL LOOK AT THINGS IN A NEW WAY FROM NOW ON. This is how man evolves, learns more and grows. Dogmatically sticking to the same point and becoming rude when challenged by another view is not a virtue, agree to disagree, explore the issue in a polite, respectful and reasoned fashion. Sorry to bang on but CC has so much to offer it's a shame such unpleasantness goes on. On a separate point, the game yesterday was poor. Both Cobblers and Wycombe didn't offer much by way of entertainment. Wilson's tactics so far have been rather cautious, but, I can understand this. We've moved up a division and he has simply been trying to ease us in to the season by keeping it tight and continuing with the system which served us so well at the business end of last year. However, whilst this didn't work yesterday, I have faith in Kevin's flexibility of thought to change things - he has already shown this by last year's change to 5-3-2 after the Halifax game. My suggestion would be that we need to play 4-4-2 in order to give Gabbi and Forrester (our key assets) some quality service and really take the game to our opponents. The consequent defensive gamble is a risk we have to take because, playing 5-3-2, I don't think there'll be much entertainment on offer this year. It's all too easy for opposition manager's to pack the midfield and force the Cobblers to play it long to our two great, but short (!!), forwards. Howard was superb at the back end of last year, but, with Gabbi and Forrester, we have to change the system to suit them and this means 4-4-2. As well as Howard can play, we can't allow quality like Gabbi and Forrester to wasted by sticking to 5-3-2. I want Howard to stay (if you cut him in half he'd say 'Cobblers' through his middle - remember his performance at Darlo last year) as he gives us a tactical option, but, 5-3-2 is the formation to use HIM with, not Gabbi and Forrester. In flashes we are getting to see what Gabbi and Forrester can do together, my view is that it looks awesome and could really trouble 2nd division defences so - come on Mr Wilson - you've been great so far so take the gamble and play 4-4-2, with Sammo and Hope at the back, for the Fulham game. We are likely to get beat over two legs so it's the perfect opportunity to test the system, against high quality opposition, before the Reading game.
Question - am I allowed to support the Cobblers even though I live in Aylesbury? I lived in Northampton until 18, had season tickets every year from the age of 9 to 18, went up North and moved to Aylesbury 5 years ago and have had a season ticket every year - some of the views expressed on CC suggest I shouldn't be a fan as I don't live in the Town!! Come on you Cobblers - you are by the far the greatest team, the world has ever seen!!!
THE SPARKLER at 11:44:6 Sunday August 20 2000
Not the best of starts then lads? Never mind sure you will pull of a big upset this week against the mighty Fulham (snigger). Not the best of games at the sparkly stadium yesterday but a good solid, start see you all next year. REMEMBER THE FUTURES BRIGHT THE FUTURES SPARKLY
Honest at 11:39:7 Sunday August 20 2000
A clear penalty and a replay of the one at Swansea. Hendon should have more faith in Welchy. Time for a right back? Give Hughes a go, then play Hodge as the right sided attacker. We will really waste a great talent in Gabbi if we don't learn to play to him. At present he is the only real creator - and we bought him to score.
Tony at 11:25:19 Sunday August 20 2000
It's early days and there is no need to panic, but I would have to say I see no reason for us to stick with 5-3-2, 4-4-2 is accepted as a more atacking formation, and would help us create more chances.
Tony at 11:23:52 Sunday August 20 2000
OK from now on, I (The original Tony) will be posting my name with my name in the email address field (Like Ray does) to be distinct from the other Tony! Phew, confusing!
Sorry DEK at 10:38:33 Sunday August 20 2000
Agree with some of your stuff but " most of us on this site could have managed to get us promoted " is total rubbish, last years promotion was an incredible achievement given the start.
Robert Dunkley at 10:36:51 Sunday August 20 2000
Well 3 years ago (after 2 games in 97/98) we had 1 point and look what happened. Savage will miss some games it seems, so we can play four in midfield with Hargreaves and Hodge as wingers, and Frain and Hunt in the middle. Hendon can play with Spedding as full-backs leaving sammo and Hope as cxentre-backs.
DEK at 10:32:50 Sunday August 20 2000
I can't understand how you say that Wilson can do this that and the other. After the Halifax game he went to 5-3-2 and resorted to a playing style ala Atkins. Yes it got us promoted but I believe that most of us on this site could have managed to get us promoted. Last season we had a good squad in a very poor division. Show me the evidence, perhaps its early days afterall Fergie needed 7 years !.
Hartwell at 10:8:39 Sunday August 20 2000
Hope is emerging as one of our best assets and I think he and Sammo together look very assertive. Hargreaves is a good acquisition, works hard and can play a bit. And there's nothing wrong with our overall commitment. Although it's very early doors, it is clear our problems lie mainly lie in: 1 - poor passing 2 - poor delivery to the front men 3 - lack of width and pace up front.I suspect Wilson might need to rethink his game plan to include Hodge, as we must have someone who can get the ball behind opposing fullbacks and pull it back. That always hurts a defence and we're just not doing that. Things are also being done too slowly and, as I say, there's no penetration down the flanks. All of which plays into the hands of the opposition. We badly miss a fit and on-form Hunter, but when/if we are going to see him back at his best is problematical. It's fair to say, though, it is still very early in the season and there's a lot of football to be played and I'm confident that, if we can improve in these key areas, Marco will come into his own and score the goals we all know he's capable of. Jamie Forrester will also benefit from better service. If we can put these flaws in our game right, we will have a good season. But if we don't address the flaws early on, confidence can seep away and we might struggle. My money, though, is with Wilson. I believe he's shrewd and knowledgeable enough to have spotted these weak areas. However, in the end, it's down to the players on the pitch to get it right.
MartinW at 9:44:34 Sunday August 20 2000
I've posted a Cobblers goals portal which will show the goals and main action from our games either in mpeg or Real Player format. The action from Cobblers v Bradford is on there and the Wycombe game will be uploaded sometime this morning, so that you can see the penalty incident. It's on http://www.martinwilliams.free-online.co.uk/cobblers.htm
Shadwell at 8:59:56 Sunday August 20 2000
Martin W. I don't think Wycombe will be at the bottom but without Sean Devine they lack punch. I can see a lot of 0-0's for them and a comfortable bottom half ending.
Northampton Gas at 8:58:18 Sunday August 20 2000
You may think you have problems. Having just sold our 50+ stike partnership and the midfield wiped out by injuries, I am still hopeful for 3 points today at P*t*rb*r*. Here's to wiping the smile off Mr Posh *s*
to Martin W at 8:56:41 Sunday August 20 2000
Is this all that you do all day???
MartinW at 8:53:6 Sunday August 20 2000
The Halifax game was disappointing, but we showed well then. We played football and were lax at the back. The difference this time is that we showed very little and the lack of spunk to try and get the goal back was very worrying.
MartinW at 8:49:44 Sunday August 20 2000
Shadwell, agree totally with all you say. Except that we will be higher than Wycombe. I think a lot of fans underestimated Wycombe. Their a tough battling outfit and Sanchez tends to go for players with mental strength. We lacked that yesterday.
Anon at 8:40:6 Sunday August 20 2000
Don't panic lads, only game 2. Things can change very quickly. Remember how bleak it was after Halifax?!!
Shadwell at 8:37:46 Sunday August 20 2000
Quite an education yesterday in how to take apart 5-3-2 I thought. Wycombe set their stall out from the start to attack down the wings and were blatently switching McSporan from side to side to give the overlap. With the midfield horribly narrow this left the wing backs desperately defending two men probes down the wings which they were always going to struggle with. With our wing backs tucked in our corners and an active Wycombe mid field pressing and giving no time on the ball the only hope quite quickly became the long ball to the front two. Closely marked and always receiving the ball with their backs to goal neither of them ever looked like scoring. As the game went on our midfield looked more and more desperate as they failed to cope with the pressing, pace and numbers of the Wycombe midfield. John Frain in particular looked a good yard short on every 50:50. The biggest problem to me though was still more tactical than skill. Our attacks were nutralised by their pressing midfield and we failed to nutralise theirs with our lack of a midfield on the wings. In my view we could of sacrificed a central defender as early as half way through the first half and gone to 4-4-2 with Hodge. That said there were some positive points. Hope was excellant and clearly the Cobblers' man of the match to me. He has always struck me as a much better central defender than left wing back. The other highlight was Hargreaves who kept battling to the end and was still visible when the rest of midfield had faded away. I also take my hat off to McSporran, he can't finish but boy is he fast. Finally, not the best Cobblers' performance ever but it's still early days. Wilson has done a great job so far and he won't get it right every time. Despite the result and performance yesterday we will end the season significantly higher up the table than Wycombe. The Cobblers have got what it takes.
MartinW at 0:38:59 Sunday August 20 2000
Oh, I was interested to read the number who had no complaint with the pen. I can't wait to see the incident, because to me it was a blatant dive. There WAS physical contact and yes, Hendon's defending was poor. But I had a great view of it - they were running straight towards me - and Jones made a deliberate fall to the ground which was not the result of anything Hendon did. If football is a non-contact sport in the penalty area, let's set a level playing field and make it so. I'm afraid I was one of those hurling abuse at Jones, I was so infuriated at what I saw is cheating. It should be said that there were many time when Hendon left the right sided attacker unmarked preferring to mark nobody centrally. But it should be said he did the same thing last season. Only then we were playing inferior opposition who never punished it. And he WAS in the Third Division team of the season. Funny old game.
MartinW at 0:28:2 Sunday August 20 2000
Of course it was Alcock. But whichever Tony thinks I was sitting at home rather than going to the game and thinks that only people living in Northampton can comment on the Cobblers defies belief. There are Northampton fans who comment on games on here who live in Northampton and don't go to the games. At least I do. And my point was that if all we could do was play hoof it football it would have been best to cut out the midfield altogether and stick another forward up. I'm not advocating that by mentioning it. Personally I think we should have been more positive in our line up at the start of this season and gone for 4-4-2. We had problems playign 5-3-2 in this division before - simply because at this level you sacrifice the midfield and what we really need to do to get confidence - and we showed a bit of this at Brentford - is to get a hold of the ball and pass it around. The way we are playing 5-3-2 involves playing far too deep and we never get support to the front players. If we are going to play two mobile forwards, you have to have the midfield pushing forward to support them, not stuck in their own half. It's a balancing act - and we were inbalanced. The thing is that Willo would probably say that 5-3-2 worked for us after that awful Halifax game. It was the right response to that defeat and we had to do that then to grind out results and regain confidence.
But the system worked for the players we had. Playing 5-3-2 on our six-game winning streak last season, we had Howard up front holding up the ball to get others into the game. Gabby and Forrester are not adept and winning the ball in the air - especially against much taller Wycombe defenders. And it is clear that if they are our first choice strikers - and they surely are - the system has to be changed to suit their game. Why we persisted in this long ball tactic throughout the whole 90 minutes when it was clear their central defence were gobbling it all up is beyond me. From the start we defended too deep and it was almost as if Willo had told the players if they did not have the ball they should stay in our half. But it was an open invitation to Wycombe and to me they just played it around and created enough chances to win by at least a couple of goals. If we invite Fulham onto us in the same way - we will get stuffed.
Willo has shown he has the flexibility to change things, though. And I think the strategy of playing a deep 5-3-2 with an over-reliance of long ball has got to be put out to pasture now.
Finally, can I say that there is no greater motivation for players than competition for places. And our squad - the smallest in the division, by all accounts - does not allow that. Savage's departure and Roy Hunter's continued injury problems showed up our lack of quality in midfield. We can't rely on Hargreaves. To my mind we are short of a central midfielder and central defender. Perhaps that's why we still have the option of two loan signings waiting in the wings. But then I remember Barry Stonhill talking about keeping wages down if we bought Forrester/Gabbiadini and you just wonder whether Willo's hands are tied. But then time will tell. It IS only just the second game.
Deepcut Cobbler at 0:25:4 Sunday August 20 2000
A primary school teacher in P**borough explains to her class that she is a P**h fan. She asks her students to raise their hands if they were of the same ilk and had problems too. Not really knowing what a P**h fan was but wanting to be like their teacher, their hands explode in to the air like fleshy fireworks. There was, however, one exception. A girl named Lucy has not gone along with the crowd. The teacher asks her why she has decided to be different. "Because I'm not a P**h fan." Then, asks the teacher, what are you? "Why, I'm proud to be a Cobblers fan.", boasts the little girl. The teacher is a
little perturbed now, her face slightly red. She asks Lucy why she is a Cobblers fan. "Well, my Dad and Mum are Cobblers fans, and I'm a Cobblers fan too." The teacher is now angry. "That's no reason," she says loudly. "What if your mum was a moron, and your dad was a moron. What would you be then?" A pause, and a worried frown. Then Lucy's face clears and she smiles politely. "Then," says Lucy, "I'd be a P**h fan." COME ON YOU COBBLERS!!!!!
Deepcut Cobbler at 0:15:28 Sunday August 20 2000
Wellingborough, Do their training pitches have floodlights cos it gets dark early up north..Cobblers or Chester fans don't care about the place??.. at least fans like us don't hawk around teams who volunteer to take us in... A football team is not just for Christmas .. Its for life!!!!!.MartinW....from the comments, yours has been the honest or most agreeable report...waiting for the "Ginola" from Jones on your site tomorrow.... COME ON YOU COBBLERS!!!
Sean from London at 23:49:48 Saturday August 19 2000
Shame about the result today - but it was good to see so much claret at Wycombe - this season people seem to be making a positive decision to either wear the shirts or any other claret coloured clothing on matchdays.
I saw that Express article where Ian Atkins moaned about Tony Clarke MP "smoking on the team coach". Well Ian, he wouldn't have been smoking if you didn't try to set him on fire!
Tony at 23:41:18 Saturday August 19 2000
I've just seen the 'penalty' on sky. If that was a foul I'm going to the police station to confess. I must assault every person I walk past on the street.
Tony at 23:17:41 Saturday August 19 2000
Big Roy, why are you bemused? Wycombe stopped a fancied club, Stoke, playing last week, and they did the same to us. We lost 1-0 to a extremely dodgy penalty, and before that it could have gone either way.We tried to press for the equaliser and that's why Forrester was substituted for Howard cos he's a bit bigger. It didn't work. The sky didn't fall in and it's on to the next game.
Wellingborough Cobbler at 23:7:19 Saturday August 19 2000
"This is a good club, Carlisle. It smells like a proper football club, feels like one.
"There are proper stands, a gym next to the ground for the players, training pitches and football fans who care about the place"
is he saying that this is what the cobblers dont have
Big Roy at 23:6:13 Saturday August 19 2000
No Tony, some of us just sit here bemused.
Tony at 23:1:52 Saturday August 19 2000
Thanks Big Roy, I was beginning to think I was the only Cobblers supporter on here.
Big Roy at 22:54:29 Saturday August 19 2000
Well said Tony.
Tony at 22:50:42 Saturday August 19 2000
This talk of lack of commitment shows a complete ignorance of professional football. Did you know some players are actually sick with nerves before a game? To you it's a entertaining diversion, but for them it's their whole life. They aren't megastar primadonnas, give them a break.
Mr. Positive at 22:45:50 Saturday August 19 2000
Ummm. I'm struggling now!
Mr. Positive at 22:45:5 Saturday August 19 2000
We're above the relegation zone!
Tony at 22:44:31 Saturday August 19 2000
Dek. Look forward to the Fulham game. Ok we may get walloped as it seems they are a prem team in waiting, but then again, at least it will be an open game, and that will suit us better. You never know, we might even win. I think we will.
Mr. Positive at 22:43:52 Saturday August 19 2000
We haven't lost a home league game all season!
DEK at 22:41:38 Saturday August 19 2000
Tony, for £ 15.00 I expect the players and management to try to win the game, after all isn't that was the game is about.
DEK at 22:41:10 Saturday August 19 2000
Tony, for £ 15.00 I expect the players and management to try to win the game, after all isn't that was the game is about.
DEK at 22:36:30 Saturday August 19 2000
Thanks for the mention Danny ! Yes Mr Hope had a good game and Hargeaves showed up Hunt and Frain with a half decent midfield performance. I wish I could be more positive and I am a bit although if it weren't for our two new forwards, well it doesn't bear thinking about. Please tell me what I've got to look forward to !!
Tony at 22:31:6 Saturday August 19 2000
I suppose he showed the commitment MartinW and co were complaining about. Also, Tony I'm not using your name, but my own. I guess Cleoptra's friend can claim copyright.
Dek at 22:30:58 Saturday August 19 2000
Good today wasn't it ?
Didn't Mr Wilson prove how attack minded we are ?
Didn't Mr Wilson show how great he is at tactics ?
Didn't Mr Wilson show how great he is at substitutions ?
Didn't Mr Wilson prove how much football we play ?
Wasn't Mr Wilson right when he say that 5-3-2 is best at the moment ?
Uncle Richard at 22:11:57 Saturday August 19 2000
Steve Brown's good game consisted of crippling Savage, attempting to cripple the rest of the team, and capping his performance by staying on the pitch. I saw nothing to make me think "I wish he was still a Cobbler"
Tony at 21:8:9 Saturday August 19 2000
I wish I could comment on individual performances but I reckon my seat was below pitch level. Plus the security seem to think World War 3 was about to break out and I spent a lot of the time dodging their fat bodies. Next time I'm going in to that mega stand. When did they build that beast?
Tony at 21:6:35 Saturday August 19 2000
The person posting as me tonight, and slagging MartinW off, is not me. Someone else must be using the name!!
Rodney Marshall(Moaning Cobbler) at 20:57:59 Saturday August 19 2000
Martin W was spot on with his match report - apart from mis-identifying the referee. Alcock was poor, Jones dived, but we played poorly and until Hodge is brought in there will be little or no width. Hope was superb and could play alongside Sammo with Hodge replacing Green. 4-4-2. The long ball game might suit Howard but otherwise is useless. Excellent away support let down by a poor performance. Not a lack of effort, just a lack of nouse.
Tony at 20:43:56 Saturday August 19 2000
Ok, so I was harsh on MartinW, but read his report. He slags the team off for hoofing the ball up field, then towards the end he states that what they should have done. It also irritates me when supporters, sitting on their arses complain about the commitment of players. I honestly think we tried to battle as much as Wycombe, but with today's rules youre just as likely to get yellow carded as win the ball. It was a frustrating day for the players and us fans. But let's not take it out on the players just yet. By the way here's a controversial one. I thought Steve Brown had a pretty good game. And what did the people say on the terrace that made him burst out laughing when he went to take the corner? (and who was that woman??).
Anon at 20:39:55 Saturday August 19 2000
long ball after long ball in the bottom five after spending all that money on wages .5.3.2 weres this attractive 4.4.2 we were told we would play. has not got a clue about systems or tactics .but says all the right things to the right people.its bleak.
Uncle Richard at 20:25:37 Saturday August 19 2000
Allcock showed why he's off the prem list. Hendon was lucky to stay on the pitch, he grabbed Jones' shoulder and span him round. I would have hoped Kev would have used Hodge when Savvo got hurt. Lets hope it's not a serious injury as the sqad will be seriously stretched, still let's be positive, there's plenty of time to pull the season round, and Kev has said we'll play open attacking football, so lets start soon !
Mark Too at 20:18:0 Saturday August 19 2000
Tony.... Do we all have to have the same opinion as you? Funny... I thought this was a forum where people could express their opinions whatever they were.
Danny at 20:17:3 Saturday August 19 2000
Tony, while it was a scrappy game, Wycombe did look the better team (and they wer'nt much cop either) As for the Penalty, I suppose it depends where you were sitting, I for one did'nt think it was a pen. I'll have a look on Sky tomorrow when I get home from the Balloons.
Danny at 20:14:4 Saturday August 19 2000
MartinW, I thought it was Alcock.
Tony at 20:5:31 Saturday August 19 2000
MartinW. so your report states Wycombe were much better than the Cobblers. From where I sat it was simply a scrappy game that never got going. Wycombe fluked a penalty and got the points. Now considering your report AND where you live, why dont you bugger off. Just think of the money you would save on travel.
Cobbler in the West at 19:55:3 Saturday August 19 2000
Wasn't there and therefore difficult to comment on what, from accounts reaching this site, seems an awful performance. One this is certain that if you play 3-5-2 hoofing the ball long and high is no good at all. You must play it short and on the ground out of defence to midfield and on. If we have problems my view is that they are largely at the back. Slow defenders are going to be caught and it is clear we need greater mobility at the back. If quality balls are not coming out of defence they pass by the midfield usually in the air and leave the strikers chasing shadows. Early days and no panic but some problems to sort out. I will now try and enjoy the remainder of the weekend but this could prove difficult.
Skint at 19:39:18 Saturday August 19 2000
I wern't there but Kev had no grouse about the penalty, he said as much in the post-match interview, but was critical of Hendon's defending. If you want too, see my earlier posting. Wilson was not happy.
Skint at 19:33:9 Saturday August 19 2000
I wern't there but I thought the ref was that dick Allcock MrMartinW? Such detail!
Danny at 19:29:29 Saturday August 19 2000
Wycombe have now played 2 games, and their keeper has'nt made a save yet. We were outbattled in the first half and outplayed in the second. Jermaine McSporran, silly name or not, made mincemeat out of Duncan Spedding. As a team we seemed to play too deep. The loss of Dave Savage made us a little lop-sided with no-one playing wide on the right. Distribution of the ball forward was poor with Wycombe's defence clearing their lines pretty easily. Plus points (I've gotta put some in, I'm beginning to sound like Dek!!!) were Richard Hope, he was class. None of the Wycombe forwards got much change out of him. Wycombe were the better team but they never really looked like they could hit the target. All in all a bad day at the office with a dodgy penalty and English Footballs worst referee to boot. There's still 44 games left though. Unbelievably I heard 1 or 2 people around me slating Marco. For christ sake, he's played 2 matches, leave it out or bog off.
MartinW at 19:27:57 Saturday August 19 2000
Bierton Cobbler, I don't know, maybe you were in our car, after all, I'm not far from Bierton (Aylesbury).
Bierton Cobbler at 19:20:46 Saturday August 19 2000
That sums this afternoon up pretty well Martin - are you sure you weren't listening to my ramblings in the car on the way home?
Jamie at 19:18:43 Saturday August 19 2000
Went to the game today and from what I have seen from a very poor showing apart from some individual performances with Hargreaves and Frain battling well generally things need changing. Kevin needs to decide that if the majority of passes are going to be long we will have to play Howard and either Forrester or Gabbiadini as they cannot make anything from todays supply (I would definitely choose Forrester as the partnership worked well at the end of last season). Again the midfield seem to be deciding whether to defend or attack leaving us with a huge gap which Wycombe exploited with no extreme effort. Today could and should have been a draw as Wycombe never really threatened our goal apart from some very wide shots in the first half. But this changed as soon as Hendon pulled the player back for a penalty which I had no argument with and Brown put it away with no problem. From this point Town had to make some effort which left us looking vulnerable and fragile in defence, Wycombe then should have put away at least two good chances including one from the lively McSporran. The other way is to make more midfield possession to take the pressure of our defence and to provide Forrester and Gabbiadini with balls to feet so they can make themselves space and goals. After Fulham's easy win against the Brum on Friday and our performance today the game on Tuesday will only go one way unless heed is taken from the result at Adams Park....
MartinW at 19:15:59 Saturday August 19 2000
Oh, I'll be posting the best action from the game tomorrow morning. So if you want to see how Steve Jones blatantly dived, then you know what to do.
MartinW at 19:11:5 Saturday August 19 2000
We lost. Which is always disappointing. But it was not so much THAT we lost but HOW we lost that galls. I don't think there is a single fan that would moan if we went out showed 100 per cent commitment, battled and tried and then lost. Actually, scrub that, there are. We had games like that last season and it is imprudent to be too harsh, in my view. But the unaplatable truth is that when the going got tough, players hid at Adams Park. Wycombe competed for every ball and won most of them. They pressed when we had possession, while we sat back and gave them plenty of space. And when we went one down instead of fighting for the intiative we just capitulated and the scoreline in the end could have been a lot worse. We never had a single shot on target - unless you include James Hunt's trickling to the keeper effort in the first half. Our best players were Hargreaves, who never stopped running all game and Richard Hope, who made a clearance off the line and did well in a one-on-one situation with (cheat)Steve Jones. I say cheat, because there is no question in my mind and eyes that cheat Jones dived to get the penalty which robbed us of the point we never deserved. Hendon - who had his worst ever game in a claret shirt - made some contact with an arm out in the penalty box but Jones almost did a somersault in a bid to get a penalty. Durkin (crap ref relegated from the Prem) should have booked Jones for ungentlemanly conduct. I'd certainly like to see the incident again. Wilson has done a lot to get us playing passing football but in this game it might as well have been Atkins in charge - with constant long balls and a total lack of imagination. Except even then we were able to direct our long balls (how many times did long balls end up going out of play, embarrasingly so. AND we had a big man up front to hold things up and get in the headers. The fact is we never passed the ball the whole game and even if we had Vieri and Ronaldo up front, we would never have scored today. Sadly there was nobody on the pitch, not one, willing to get a hold of it or even gee the others up. This will be a big lesson for Wilson, who really did not respond quick enough on the subs front or on changing tactics to grab back the initiative in midfield. And when he did, he took FORRESTER off, the one player who looked like doing something. Which makes me wonder whether he is trying to keep Gabbiadini sweet, having taken him off against Brentford. Surely not. It might have been wiser to go back to four at the back, take Hendon off and stick Howard up front, who might give us some physical strength up front and extra fire power. Instead we took off a forward for a forward and stuck with five at the back. Now this worked towards the end of last season, but we scored first in those games. And we played football. The way we were playing it would have been better to play 5-2-3 and bypass the midfield completely. I feel Savage's injury in the first half was a turning point to the way we played. Like him or loathe him, he is a mobile midfielder who links play well and God knows we needed him on the pitch not nursing his wounds off it. After the game we kept telling ourselves it was only the second game of the season but if we continue to play this way we will be heading back to Division Three. Willo has proven in the past that he has the flexibility to change things when it is not going well. And a revert to 4-4-2 so that we can serve our undoubtedly classy forward line may well be the next step. The one positive from this was that Hopey now looks mature and solid enough to play alongside Sammo in central defence. One thing's for sure if we play like this against Fulham on Tuesday. It may be a ghastly sight for Cobblers fans. Before, I get slated, it really WAS that bad.
Still Skint at 18:2:8 Saturday August 19 2000
Hopefully next Saturday v Reading Big Bloke Fan Person!
Big Fan at 17:56:52 Saturday August 19 2000
When does the season start. I can't wait.
Anon at 17:55:27 Saturday August 19 2000
RDFC. Jigsaw - nice one, very original. New to football are we? Lured by big money village football.
Skint at 17:20:47 Saturday August 19 2000
Kev was not a happy man in the after match interview on Radio Numpton. He was particularly scathing of our inability to create any chances leaving our forwards frustrated all afternoon. Apparently their 'keeper did not have a shot to save all game. Too often the defence lumped the ball forward. Kev was also critical of Ian Hendon's defending which led to the penalty suggesting that is what you get for defending badly! Kev agreed with the ref's decision. When Adam Blackmore prompted Kev on Tuesday night's game Kev would not be drawn and emphasised again of his dissappointment and frustration in today's performance. The interview ended abruptly, Kev's not happy. Todays gate was just over 4000 with The Mighty Claret Army taken around a thousand. Respect to those that went and a cold beer and the radio in the garden for those that didn't. From the radio commentary it appeared that Richard Hope had an excellent game making several critical tackles and clearing off the line. Hunt played well. Steve Brown seemed his usual self, aggravating the Cobblers fans and lashing out, unpunished, at Richard Green. Jermaine McSporran appeared to be the man of the match. Savage was taken off injured in the first half to be replaced by Spedding. A whack on the knee said Kev and it is too early to tell how serious, or not. Howard for Forrester and Hodge for Hendon late on but to no avail. Hope this helps for those of you exiled outside of the county and beyond 104.6 FM!
Anon at 17:9:0 Saturday August 19 2000
as a nine year old mazz it probably depended on whether your parents would take you. twat!
mazz at 16:56:38 Saturday August 19 2000
just to think. i nearly went to that game as well hahaah. bloody good job i didn't y'no
Anon at 16:27:46 Saturday August 19 2000
Who conceeded the penalty? Any details anyone? How are we playing....sigh...
Tony at 16:10:6 Saturday August 19 2000
Wycombe has a penalty.. Steve Brown Steps up.. and scored! Bugger hey!
Is there a commentary I can pick up at 14:41:47 Saturday August 19 2000
I am stuck down here in a submarine!
Commentary at WW at 14:40:21 Saturday August 19 2000
Cobbs are having the prematch kickabout, its disappointing that Jamie is not fit, but they all look confident
AS THE TITLE BELOW STATES AS I CANNOT BE ARSED TYPING IT OUT AGAIN!!!! at 14:31:12 Saturday August 19 2000
RADIO COVERAGE ON THE INTERNET PLEASE!!!!!!
Annoyed Overseas Cobblers fan in search of internet coverage of his beloved town playing at 14:28:1 Saturday August 19 2000
ANY TIPS??????
BIG JIM at 14:26:33 Saturday August 19 2000
Gabbi to bag a brace & Jamie to get one!!!!
Anon at 14:7:4 Saturday August 19 2000
WHATS THE SCORE? WHATS THE SCORE?
Tony at 13:59:0 Saturday August 19 2000
ANyone want updates this afternoon? I'm listening in on the Radio, so I'll be happy to let you know what's happeing.
Deepcut Cobbler at 13:38:38 Saturday August 19 2000
Too late for tipping but I would have said 3-1 to Cobbs with Sammo opening his account. COME ON YOU COBBLERS!!
Deepcut Cobbler at 13:37:13 Saturday August 19 2000
MartinW, Thanks for the Cobblers goals site, the only eye to Sixfields for us who are away. Looking for updates followed by match reports during/after todays game. Just going to the Tipping comp for my entry. COME ON YOU COBBLERS!!!! R.D.F.C. wants to update his jokes or is that how far behind they are in the nonentities division??
Gomez at 13:20:9 Saturday August 19 2000
You can find The Torypress article on Ian Hoofkins at http://www.sportlive.net/esport/columns/columnist_home.tpl?page=/esport/columns/columnist_home.tpl&cid=JWG&aid=336026
I'd better go!!!!!
MartinW at 13:3:21 Saturday August 19 2000
Oh and with any luck, you will be able to see any of the Cobblers goals we score on Saturday the following day on my site. I'll post the address tomorrow.
MartinW at 13:0:8 Saturday August 19 2000
Cobbler in the West - If you read below my entry, you will find there has been an earlier debate on the comments. Why be so rude.
MartinW at 13:0:4 Saturday August 19 2000
Cobbler in the West - If you read below my entry, you will find there has been an earlier debate on the comments. Why be so rude.
R.D.F.C. at 12:33:43 Saturday August 19 2000
HAVE YOU HEARD MARCO'S NICKNAME ??
JIGSAW - BECAUSE HE GOES TO PIECES IN THE BOX !!!!!
Marlowe at 12:27:16 Saturday August 19 2000
On behalf of Carlisle United, I would like to thank you for paying Ian Atkins, saves us the bother. Thanks ;o)
Thanks GA at 12:2:7 Saturday August 19 2000
You are as GREEN as the HULK! So who do you support - and it wont be a surprise to us!!
Sleeping Dog at 11:20:4 Saturday August 19 2000
Oh please, please let me lye!
Ummmmmh at 8:46:41 Saturday August 19 2000
Plastic fan?
GA at 8:22:26 Saturday August 19 2000
WILL MARCO EVER SCORE FOR THE LUCKY COBBLERS !!!!!
YOU ARE ALL SO PROUD OF YOUR CLUB WINNING PROMOTION , BEING IN DEBT,STILL PAYING A MANAGER YOU HAVE SACKED, NOT OWNING YOUR OWN GROUND !!!
WELL DONE COBBLERS AND YOUR SAD ARMY OF SUPPORTERS.
Atkins Fan at 8:15:38 Saturday August 19 2000
I agreed with everything Sir Ian said, but most of the people who come on here still play subbuteo, you sheep!
Cobbler in the West at 7:54:6 Saturday August 19 2000
The Ian Atkins article is yesterday's news, well last Saturday's to be precise so MartinW you are a bit off the pace. I suggest we concentrate on this Saturday's news.
MartinW at 0:46:41 Saturday August 19 2000
Oh, and Deepcut, Atkins has said that he was the most successful manager since Dave Bowen before. Just after he got pushed (scrub) sorry amicably parted company with the Cobblers.
Back then he gloated: "I'm the second most successful manager in Northampton's history and took the team to its fifth-highest position. That is fact. Most people understand this." There is nothing like humility. And what he said was nothing like it.
"I believed we didn't need to strengthen to get into the play offs and I will look on it as a failure if my successor doesn't get the side into the top seven by the end of the season," he said.
Which was a fine way to up the pressure on Willo.
Well, Willo did not even need the play offs.
MartinW at 0:38:28 Saturday August 19 2000
Phil Baron - Could you post what Atkins said in the Express on the site??? It would be interesting.
Anon at 0:31:53 Saturday August 19 2000
Faaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaart!
Deepcut Cobbler at 23:23:54 Friday August 18 2000
MartinW..Thank you...Keep putting the goals on...Its the nearest that I will get to Sixfields for a while......As for IA, "the most successful manager since Dave Bowen and he wasn't appreciated"? I think we all appreciated what he did for our club. The Dave Bowen comment is doubtful but we got fed up when he didn't fully use the playing assets he had available. Leaving the top players in the stands because he didn't get on with them isn't how to manage a football club. He hasn't done himself any favours with us with that interview. It all seems a bit childish, but on reflection the players in the stand saga was as well..COME ON YOU COBBLERS!!!!
a soccer fan at 22:50:17 Friday August 18 2000
just to keep the loyal carlo fans informed. canada are not doing well
in there wc2002 qualifying group. so why did we let him go. i cant see
canada playing any more then 6 mathes for canada this season. which is
funny because he can only play fo canada 5 or 6 times this season. due
to a clause in his Oldham contract
Ray at 22:47:8 Friday August 18 2000
To the best of my knowledge TCMP doesnt smoke....which only goes to prove what a load of cows manure the article was. I sit close to the directors box and I never saw or heard any of them shouting "Atkins Out" - after all they didn't really need to did they? They had the power to sack him - why waste breath? I feel the time has come for the Club to put its foot down with a firm hand, cut off the payments they are making to him and let him sue. He has after all broken the terms of the agreement.
Phil Baron at 22:24:54 Friday August 18 2000
Evening all I have just seen the crap Atkins has written about the club in last Saturdays Express. Is he allowed to keep slagging the club and directors off when he is still getting paid by us? Did the club not have some kind of aggreement with him not to say anything detremental about the directors etc. Not only does he slag of Tony Clarke but he also has a pop at Barry Hancock? Saying crap like the local MP gets thrown off the coach for smoking is a joke because I dont think he does!!!! I think the club if they have the power should stop his payments immediatly. Can anyone on here remember the directors shouting "Atkins out" because I dont the only one shouting that were the players that he made sit in the stand week in and week out just because he did not get on with them?
Tony at 22:8:9 Friday August 18 2000
Surley it's Stoke's problem that they have bought so many Icelandic players? We didn't get all our games called off cause Carlo spent so long in Canada! Or Leeds won't be getting their matches called off cause the have 2 players going to the Olympics!! I say the game should have stayed!
MartinW at 21:21:12 Friday August 18 2000
Deep Cut - I'm thinking about putting more mpegs of Cobblers goals on the net as a regular thing. So that fans can see them when they want to see them.
Deepcut Cobbler at 20:39:48 Friday August 18 2000
Gone through the trandy site, quite impressive the amount of detail and information loaded for the one match. Do we have the opportunity to have a similar service? Saw the goal but it played better through your site MartinW. First sighting of the Cracking goal. Goal of the season already? A few more like that please Mr Forrester!! Has anybody had any joy with the Faye from STEPS coercion. Or any detail on the Vice chairman YTS reason for Ian Atkins moving?? COME ON YOU COBBLERS!!!!
MartinW at 19:39:7 Friday August 18 2000
For those of you who want to see Jamie Forrester's goal, you can now download the mpeg through my web site http://www.martinwilliams.free-online.co.uk
It on the main index page.
Ian at 19:34:11 Friday August 18 2000
From the club siteStoke clash postponed
Northampton Town's ALL TICKET home game with Stoke City, originally scheduled for Saturday September 2, has been postponed because of international call ups for City players over that weekend.
No new date for the game has yet been fixed, but the match will remain ALL TICKET for it's new date.
MartinW at 19:12:29 Friday August 18 2000
An interesting Brentford eye report on last Saturday's game I thought I'd share with ya all: "The Bees started the season with a good away point to newly promoted Northampton. The Bees showed good spirit in coming back from a goal behind, but had to thank their new Icelandic keeper for there deserved point. Northampton should have scored 4 or 5, but the Bees were also unfortunate when they hit the woodwork on two occasions. Scott Marshall, a £250,000 signing from Southampton to replace Hermann Hreidarrson who left the club for Wimbledon, was fortunate not to concede a penalty in the 25th minute. He made a mess of clearing an attack. In trying to boot the ball away he smashed it against his own hands. The home fans were outraged, and Brentford were more than a tad fortunate on this occasion.
Gottskalksson must have made the most impressive debut ever in a Brentford shirt; he stopped everything bar one incredible shot. It looked like the Cobblers would be in the lead with half an hour gone. A Northampton player found himself in the clear, but couldn’t find a way past the big Icelandic keeper who blocked with his feet. Northampton did get the break through a minute later when Forrester scored a fantastic goal from fully 30 yards out. The ball bounced up nicely and he struck it immediately. The ball sailed through the air and despite a brave dive by Ollie, it beat his outstretched hand and flew into the top corner of the net. Nothampton 1-0 Brentford.
the Cobblers could have wrapped their first victory of the season when two Town players found themselves in the clear with just Ollie to beat. The first came in the 73rd minute. The Cobblers broke from the half way line. Tony Folan the Bees attacking genius found himself as the last man back. The ball was placed past him but Ollie was fast off his line and did well to deny the Northampton forward of putting the game beyond doubt, by blocking with his feet. Three minutes later, Jamie Forrester exposed Robert Quinn on the right and had a free run on goal. The ex-Bees target beared down on goal, but Ollie had brilliantly covered his angles and forced Forrester to shoot at him. The ball hit the keeper before sailing safely over the bar.
In the last minute of play either team could have won it. First the Bees attack stretched the Northampton back line and McCammon found himself through on goal. At a slight acute angle, he decided to go for glory rather than pass to Lorenzo who was shouting loudly at the back post. Unfortunately he got it all wrong and ball sailed over the bar. Lorenzo frustration got the better off him and he was booked for failing to retreat 10 yards. The referee enforced the new rules of the game and picked the ball up and placed it 10 yards forward from the original offence. This was going to be the last throw of the dice for the Cobblers and it was extremely dangerous for the Bees. The ball was sailed into the area, and was met by the head of a Town player. He managed to direct his header towards the back stick, but again Ollie managed to dive and push the ball away.
All in all, a fair result considering both sides chances, but the Bees may not be as fortunate that Ollie will be able to produce this same sort of performance. If he does, he should be playing for Manchester United!
Pickled Judge at 19:12:10 Friday August 18 2000
I am going to Wycombe tomorrow with the Trust so there! And I don't give a toss who won the cricket, how fat Ron Noades is, whether the Posh are shit or bust, how many balloons there are on the Racecourse. Stuff everything. Up the Cobblers, you claret kings.
Mark Too at 18:48:45 Friday August 18 2000
I've just seen a big blue thing full of hot air go over....must be a pish supporter!
Danny at 17:24:3 Friday August 18 2000
WW - The pubs nearby? There are no pubs nearby - just a lot of Warehouses.
Dyl at 17:14:10 Friday August 18 2000
England have just beaten the W Indies by and innings and 39 runs. Only the 16th 2 day Test Match in history!
Fulham French Connection at 14:56:7 Friday August 18 2000
We look forward to playing you in the cup. You'll see a new look Fulham with bags of classy football and unbelievable fitness.
Good luck to you Cobblers in the league. Bonne chance !
Anon at 11:31:1 Friday August 18 2000
Doh!! Make sure your settings on your browser are set to "check for a new version every time".
Joe at 9:20:16 Friday August 18 2000
Good, now I've got something to read.
Joe at 9:19:29 Friday August 18 2000
No contributions since Wednesday night? I think my computer is playing up.
Ron Noades at 8:12:10 Friday August 18 2000
If you see something large and inflated on the racecourse this weekend it's me.
WW at 6:45:57 Friday August 18 2000
If we had been unlucky enough to play WW back in the 70s then they might have rated along with P.sh, Cambridge, Swindon and Oxford in Cobblers away history. I am not bothered about how much they charge to get in, which is still an insult - who are they! It is just about the most boring day out. The ground in no where the pubs nearby are average and I cant say anything else otherwise I will fall asleep.
To GAS at 6:42:53 Friday August 18 2000
Stay at p..h you deserve each other!
A doctor at 22:57:14 Thursday August 17 2000
Get innoculated before you go NG and don't go near any of the women unless you have a good supply of penicillin.
Jim at 22:53:0 Thursday August 17 2000
Wise Dave, thanks for that. It's got to be at least Sky's goal of the month. I loved the introduction where it said about Woody "slamming the board" considering the rumour about his leaving!
mick at 22:41:51 Thursday August 17 2000
Bit disappointed no-one gave any suggestions for teams to win the football divisions, but here's a gem for northants supporters. Today I managed to get 3-1 for Northants to win div 2 of the cricket. I would recommend anyone else vaguely interested in cricket and betting to do the same.
wise dave at 22:38:55 Thursday August 17 2000
u can get the forrester goal from www.trandy.co.uk
Jim at 22:33:2 Thursday August 17 2000
I've heard you can get an mpeg of Jamie's goal of the season. Anyone know where?
Northampton Gas at 22:16:15 Thursday August 17 2000
Off to see The Gas at P*t*rb*r* this Sunday. Any recommendations or commennts? *s*
Big Roy at 21:37:41 Thursday August 17 2000
Good to hear from you Big Bill! Congratulations on the engagement. Looking forward to Sept 12th!
Anon at 21:23:44 Thursday August 17 2000
JF reminds me of a munchkin....In the nicest possible way of course!
Cheadle Cobbler at 21:7:12 Thursday August 17 2000
Latest News-
The home match with Stoke on Sept.2nd could be called off as they are
expecting to lose four players on international duty
The Queen Mum at 20:37:23 Thursday August 17 2000
No, but he reminds me of Lee Evans. Dave Savage looks like Rodders! John Frain has an element of Rigsby about him and as we all know Welchy is a porn star!
Famous Lookylikeys at 20:12:29 Thursday August 17 2000
Anyone else reckon Jamie, Jamie, Jamie, Jamie Forrester looks just a likkle bit like ex-Arsenal man Marc Overmars
Big Bill W.Delaney@FSBDial.co.uk at 19:18:57 Thursday August 17 2000
Best of luck against Wycombe - Soften them up as we have them next Saturday. Good to to see you back in Div 2. I'm engaged to a Northampton Girl and when we play you my in-laws to be will be with the cobblers fans. Hows Savage getting on for you? Somehow I think he'll come back to haunt us - ex players always do.
Danny at 16:5:2 Thursday August 17 2000
shame the Bees did'nt shout as loud as you Richard, we may have had an atmosphere
NSB at 15:57:21 Thursday August 17 2000
you can imagine the TV commentary...... "oh what a superb miss by alan shearer! buggered up the shot and it went right into the crowd... superb!"
NSB at 15:54:36 Thursday August 17 2000
that must make pish the best team in europe, they allways miss!
Anon at 15:22:36 Thursday August 17 2000
It does doesn't it??
Rudolph Hucker at 15:18:45 Thursday August 17 2000
I agree Carl. I always thought hitting the woodwork counted as a miss. Hmmm.
Carl at 14:53:12 Thursday August 17 2000
So the sole basis you judge your teams performance on is how many times they hit the bar or post, good idea that
Anon at 14:46:3 Thursday August 17 2000
Pity you know nothing about football.
RICHARD OSBORN at 13:30:44 Thursday August 17 2000
I THOUGHT YOU GUYS WERE REAL LUCKY TO GET AWAY WITH A DRAW ON SAT,BRENTFORD WERE BY FAR THE BETTER TEAM WHICH SHOWED AS THEY HIT THE WOODWORK TWICE.UP THE BEES.
PATTCOBB at 13:8:31 Thursday August 17 2000
I'm back from Northampton-on-sea,Cobblers related t-shirt on sunburnt back.Absolutely ,completely skint,can't afford the ridiculous prices Wynotkickum wanderers are charging.But here's 3 pounds in Yarmouth bingo tokens that says that Steve Brown gets at least a booking on Saturday.
NSB at 12:27:30 Thursday August 17 2000
lets put sweepstakes on who shoots ron noades first........
2-1 on it being me!
Ron Noades at 11:22:58 Thursday August 17 2000
Dear Ray......Don't waste your money on betting on the Cobblers!...I
suggest you place a dead cert bet by investing £1000 on the Bees to
be divisional champions by Christmas.
GOD BLESS YOU!
Tony at 11:8:2 Thursday August 17 2000
Thanks for the info :-)
Ray at 11:7:45 Thursday August 17 2000
Current odds for Cobblers on William Hill for the Championship - 40-1. They are also giving 25% cash back on on-line bets for all new accounts.
Anon at 10:58:50 Thursday August 17 2000
Tony, trust coach leaves at 11.00 am (early to allow for a food and drink stop) cost is £7.00 £5.00 concessions ring Jim on 01327 702652 to book
Tony at 10:1:36 Thursday August 17 2000
Anyone know how much the Trust coach to Wycombe this weekend? Also, what is the approx. travling time?
RE The Twatters Web Site at 9:15:8 Thursday August 17 2000
Its a fine effort with plenty of imagination, there is sound on the intro and the guestbook and messagebook offer a thread or no thread option. One of the good features of the site is the chat option which we lack here.The content is a pile of crap as its about the Twatters but dont knock the site, its one of the better ones and maybe a few ideas could be taken from it or do we all need to go to Sids old site :-)
you asked at 22:16:50 Wednesday August 16 2000
Well, anon, I've just visited lutonfc.com. The Flash intro is lame, no sound, and just who is impressed by twirling words?, The home page is a complete mess, and the message board is those crappy threads no-one can be arsed to wade through. I didn't bother with the other pages so they might be good, but who cares?
NSB at 21:30:13 Wednesday August 16 2000
thank goodness that icelandic company decided not to take us over or we might have turned into a bunch of arrogant pricks like that lot!
NSB at 21:28:7 Wednesday August 16 2000
stupid old prick and his bloody icelandic team!
NSB at 21:26:48 Wednesday August 16 2000
and as for Ron Noades, his comments are like Talbots claim that R&D are the best team in the county!
NSB at 21:23:24 Wednesday August 16 2000
Ray; does this mean i can get sued?!?!?!?
Carl at 20:21:5 Wednesday August 16 2000
streetmap.co.uk, you may have to look for the post code on the Wycombe site makes life easier. What time train are you getting, and are you going from Marylebone
Carl at 20:20:0 Wednesday August 16 2000
But I don't support Luton
Anon at 20:16:17 Wednesday August 16 2000
i have just read the luton supporters new site,and i loathe to admit,that it was a refreshing change from from reading what i would call a very dull supporters site,check it out and let me know your thoughts please.www.lutonfc.com regards east stand tom
W H Smith & Son Ltd at 18:43:6 Wednesday August 16 2000
Dear Sean from London......You can buy a map from us !!
Sean from London at 17:19:40 Wednesday August 16 2000
Hi Carl (in reply to your message)- I will travelling by train from London to Wycombe - although I haven't yet sorted how far the ground is from the station - do you know where I can get a map?
Carl at 15:40:7 Wednesday August 16 2000
But only as long as you stop repeating yourself :-)
Carl at 15:35:5 Wednesday August 16 2000
Jim, I'll do that for you. You will just have to remind me nearer the time. Just get in touch with all your details
Charles Commins at 15:14:16 Wednesday August 16 2000
Blimey we are good aren't we?! I think we should have definately beaten Brentford on Saturday! Forrester and Gabbiadini work wonders up front don't they?
Up the COBBLERS!!!!!!!!
BIG JIM at 15:13:43 Wednesday August 16 2000
Can anybody record the match against Fulham and send it out to me here in Cyprus please
BIG JIM at 15:13:41 Wednesday August 16 2000
Can anybody record the match against Fulham and send it out to me here in Cyprus please
Big JIM at 15:12:12 Wednesday August 16 2000
I think Gabbi will break his duck next weekend,anybody else agree?
Big JIM at 15:12:3 Wednesday August 16 2000
I think Gabbi will break his duck next weekend,anybody else agree?
Carl at 14:53:23 Wednesday August 16 2000
Are the new team photos out yet?
Carl at 11:46:19 Wednesday August 16 2000
Anyone planning on taking the train from London to Wycombe for Saturdays game?
Roger at 9:12:0 Wednesday August 16 2000
Can anyone help a sad programme collector? What programmes were issued for the pre season games? Thanks!
Ron Noades at 8:41:35 Wednesday August 16 2000
Dear Mr Baron............being the supreme deity that I am...I forgive your ill mannered thoughts towards me. Come the hour of
reckoning I will not strike you down with a bolt of lightning.
Go in Peace................RON
SWD at 7:43:48 Wednesday August 16 2000
Surely you mean up a Dead Bears Bum Phil?
Phil Baron at 23:22:8 Tuesday August 15 2000
In my honest opinion Ron Noades has his head stuck up his arse and his comments do not really count as no one within football takes any notice of the silly old git !!! God he reminds me of a poor mans Doug Ellis or a young Ken Bates!!
Ray at 23:16:28 Tuesday August 15 2000
They aren't allowed to use the Club Crest now without permission.
Ronald Noades at 22:17:6 Tuesday August 15 2000
dont worry about Brentford ill soon have ripped the bollocks out of the club ,,Just like i did at palace
Lancaster Cobbler at 21:35:19 Tuesday August 15 2000
According to some Scunny fans, under the ntl portal deal, ALL UNOFFICIAL sites will not be allowed to use the Club Crest.
Carl at 18:49:39 Tuesday August 15 2000
All I needed it for was a Fantasy Footie comp. on the Div. 3 Board so I didn't really look much, just needed some goalscorers. Most of them seem to hold the same info.
Big JIM at 18:38:33 Tuesday August 15 2000
CARL,thank you was that site(s) I gave you any good for player histry etc??????
Carl at 18:25:25 Tuesday August 15 2000
Big Jim, sadly I don't think you will have much luck finding any Cobblers action live on the Internet, unless we happen to be on National Radio, or teams we are playing have Internet Radio Stations. I know of a few, Notts Forest for example have Internet Radio, as do Rushden and Diamonds. So it is probably down to you to search around our opposition and see if they have a facility similar to the two teams mentioned.
from the official site at 17:5:10 Tuesday August 15 2000
Cobblers teenager honoured 15 Aug: Northampton Town Under-15 centre forward Marcus Benson has been called up to train with the England Under-15 squad at the beginning of September. Benson is one of the Cobblers most highly rated youngsters and is part of the clubs Centre of Excellence and the Northampton Town Director of Youth Development Paul Curtis was naturally proud of his protege. "This is a well deserved honour for both Northampton Town and Marcus," admitted Curtis. "He did very well last year, so well in fact that for the second half of the season we moved Marcus and four or five others up an age group to assist with their development."
BIG JIM at 16:27:43 Tuesday August 15 2000
IS THERE ANYBODY OUTTHERE/ EVERY TIME I SEEM TO WRITE SOMETHING ON THIS SITE NOBODY REPLIES.I AM AFTER THE coverage of cobblers matches on the internet any clues or are you all ignorant I AM A COBBLERS FAN OF OLD
Danny at 15:54:38 Tuesday August 15 2000
To Noades is God(!) it may be made out of lego but is more impressive than that ramshackle you call Griffin Park. I suppose we'd all better get used to paying around £15 for football now as most teams in this league charge that amount. Soon ordinary fans will be priced out of Division 2 football. The spiralling costs of this game both on and off the pitch have to slow down or stop because it really is getting out of control.
marco at 14:48:42 Tuesday August 15 2000
thanks carl/mystic meg. Bit pricey indeed to see the long-ball cloggers of adams park.
Ron Noades at 13:32:22 Tuesday August 15 2000
I beg to differ!.............BUT I AM GOD!
No he's not, he's an arrogant arse at 13:11:41 Tuesday August 15 2000
Oh the humour.
Noades is God at 12:59:58 Tuesday August 15 2000
Dear "Happy Cobbler".......get a life!........Dear "Anon" 17:4:37 on
August 13.........please note that Bees fans would not hurt your
precious car. The damage was probably caused by a couple of LEGO bricks that lew off the roof of that wonderful construction called
the "Sixfields Stadium".
Mystic Meg at 12:47:53 Tuesday August 15 2000
To Marco..No the game isnt all ticket....You can buy tickets from 6fields now though which gets you a £1 discount -£14 (not £15 if you were to buy them on the day at Wycombe!!) Bit expensive innit!!!
Carl at 12:46:11 Tuesday August 15 2000
Marco the quick answer is No. I think there are details on the Official Site latest News, somewhere.
marco at 11:49:33 Tuesday August 15 2000
quick question, is the wycombe game all-ticket for away fans?
Don in Ealing at 11:28:57 Tuesday August 15 2000
Not sure whose responsibility it is, but could someone please keep the fixture list up to date on the official site? Last Saturday's details have yet to appear - and there's still no mention of the Fulham matches. Thanks!
Mystic Meg at 11:27:53 Tuesday August 15 2000
Talking of Carlo (Yes, we ARE below y'know!!!) Does anyone know if he will miss games when we play Oldham home and away??? (ie, in October and March) Im actually hoping he does cos he's bound to score against us if he's playing!! That always happens!!! Better watch out for the visit of Mr Byfield too....and Mcgavin come to think of it.......
Tony at 10:39:0 Tuesday August 15 2000
........... upon his return, he will be injured, Jet-lagged and be unable to play!!
Tony at 10:38:1 Tuesday August 15 2000
Former Northampton star Carlo Corazzin has earned rave reviews following his Oldham debut at the weekend. Latics boss Andy Ritchie has praised his new signing after he scored a goal on his debut against Port Vale. However, the former Sixfields favourite has been given little time to celebrate himself as he has already flown to Toronto to team up with the Canadian squad who will be in Mexico on Tuesday for a World Cup qualifier. He is due back at Boundary Park on Thursday, in time for Saturday's visit to the more homely surroundings of Walsall - another club relegated from Division One last season.
Tales of Wycombe at 6:26:55 Tuesday August 15 2000
There were many tales of Brentford, Wycombe - well apart from a steep hill its just boring! Watch this space through the season for us TOGS looking back at tales of the team we are playing that week - I might struggle with P..h, Cambridge, Swindon and Oxford stories - so help me out!
Danny at 22:43:57 Monday August 14 2000
How was Carlo's 16 goals responsible for us going down? Why the hell are you still on about that anyway. We're now in Chapter 2 of the Willo era. JAMIE JAMIE JAMIE JAMIE FORRESTER!!!!!
Mick at 21:47:49 Monday August 14 2000
Just noticed Tales of Brentford at 6:29:23 Saturday August 12 2000. I was a the pub too. You must have been one of us who went by train. It was a promotion year, but I think it was a cup game. Or was it? The score may have been 1-1. Anyway, I do remember the paranoia trying to get back to Euston afterwards. I also remember we could get to any part of the ground round a passage behind the stands. This created mayhem with the security, such as it was, with Cobblers fans popping up everywhere. Sweet memories.
dek at 21:20:5 Monday August 14 2000
Yes Danny something positive, I just hope things stay that way for the rest of the season. For me an ideal season would be finish around 10th, with the glimmer of the play-offs always there and a good FA cup run to at least the Third round , although hoping for a top Prem side is going too far I suppose. Hartwell, since when has Wilson been a shrewd coach. Yes his signings have all been excellent except perhaps mini Mr Crowe and perceptive, that must be a joke Yeah ?.
Ultra-defensive Atkins but alot of that has rubbed off on Wilson. Hendon and Frain don't go forward cos they are told not to, much of Atkins tactics are carried on by Wilson, the positioning from throw-ins, a totally flat back 5 when we take the lead, lack of shooting etc etc. I feel that Hendon for one is totally under used. Before he signed from Notts County he had scored 7 or 8 goals that season, how many has he scored since ? Surely at attacking free-kicks and corners he would be much better on the edge of the box rather than the half-way line. The ball he played wide to Gabbi from a central midfield area was superb and behind the two forwards is are best player yet I believe his application lets him done at times because of his frustration at not being allowed to play further up the field.
Hartwell at 20:35:30 Monday August 14 2000
I'm sure we are all hoping Roy Hunter makes a return to the team before too long. He is an influential chartacter in midfield and, back fit and on form, would make a substantial contribution in Div 2. The worry is whether he can regain full fitness and then keep clear of further injuries. This will be a make or break season for Roy and I wish him well and keep my fingers crossed for him. Actually I wasn't too concerned about midfield deficiencies on Sat. We played exceptionally well in patches but we lacked pace down the flanks. Neither Frain nor Hendon seemed able to provide this - whether they were required to stay deep I don't know. But it was clear as the game wore on the best way to break down a big Brentford team was to gto wide, get in behind their fullbacks and cut balls back across the face of goal for Marco and Jamie to feed from. I was surprised Wilson didn't change things round in that department, giving either Hodge or Spedding a run. However, I'm sure Wilson - being a shrewd and perceptive coach - will have learned from Sat's game and I would not be surprised if he didn't ring the changes on the wings, especially in future home games. Having said that, I am not making any general criticisms of the team and its performance on Saturday. Overall they looked a very useful outfit and far, far better class than the awful, disjointed, ultra-defensive drivel which Atkins contrived to deliver to us at the start of last season. It was a pleasure to watch the team on Sat. They clearly enjoyed themselves and their football, while giving 120%. We can look forward to some great wins and even when we don't it looks as though we'll still be rewarded with entertainment. Well done, all 12 and here's to Wycombe on Sat.
matt at 19:38:10 Monday August 14 2000
i agree that the partnership was good but felt gabby was a bit poor compared too the other times i ave seen him
MartinW at 19:11:8 Monday August 14 2000
The Forrester/Gabbiadini partnership looks irresistible. As much as it was the dream partnership in a lot of fans' heads. Fans who probably did not believe it would happen, I don't think anyone could have wished for such understanding. Gabbi was playing Forrester in and vice versa. We never saw such understanding when Howard and Corrazin played. There was one point in the first half when Gabby was being a bit greedy and Forrester made a gesture to him (not a rude one and in good heart) which Gabby acknowledged. But it was one of those situations where Gabby's striker head had to come into play. Someone mentioned that Gabby was a bit of a prima donna with all his strutting after the game. It was funny, because I can't remember Northampton having a player with the kind of class to do that and get away with it. That's great. Let him strut. And let's hope that confidence turns to goals.
I think Forrester will be top scorer and Gabby will be the support act.
But, God, anyone who did not think those two did not perform well together, was probably watching Oxford play Peterborough.
A Gabby/Forrester partnership seemed like a fantasy in the close season.
That fantasy became reality on Saturday. And I want to dream some more.
Person at 18:30:23 Monday August 14 2000
Does anyone understand last anon's comments?
Danny at 18:27:28 Monday August 14 2000
My god DEK, did you actually put somthing positive about the Cobblers, or are my eyes actually deceiving me?
My old mans a Cobbler. at 16:46:42 Monday August 14 2000
Just a quick comment,I couldn't beleive how hard Hargreaves was in tackling,he didn't back out at all,aswell as his being a very intelligent skilfull player.Once again 3 excellent signings.
Carl at 16:40:59 Monday August 14 2000
Spot on Dyl. For a pair of players who haven't played too many times together I thought they did exceptionally well. I thoroughly enjoyed Saturday's game. It was a far cry from Macclesfield away last year, and so many things were there for all to see that could be built on, some of the football was excellent, despite what some of the Brentford fans are saying on some of their sites.
dyl at 16:29:23 Monday August 14 2000
o.b.c, how can you say that Jamie and Marco don't play well together? I thought that Gabbi provided Jamie with a lot of the ball on saturday. They are still learning each other's game, and with Jamie's pace allied to Gabbi's strength and touch, they'll be a great pairing.
Nail ... at 16:13:40 Monday August 14 2000
Dear Posh Fan!
Why don't you put your name and address on with your bleatings so that we can come and have a nice cup of tea with you!
WANKER!
LOOKING FORWARD TO A BIT OF CHRISTMAS "SHOPPING" IN SCUMVILLE.....
Anon at 15:52:23 Monday August 14 2000
forrester was class. who put the the block on himm joining us a year ago ,we would have stayed up then.why are we playing 5.3.2 when wilson a 4.4.2 suited the players best last season.it was not till we went back to a 5.3.2 last season we won 6 on the trot and won promotion.so why has he changed his mind.gabbiadini and forrester can not play together they both need howard.sowho out of the two will sit on the bench next to that great success hodge.that means two very big earners out of the team .the bored wont handle that surely.see gibbb has been an outstanding success at stockport good business that.come on the over thirties we can do it even if certaint people are clueless.
dek at 15:38:23 Monday August 14 2000
oooppps, I mean't, did NOT stay up season before. That an Atkins playing for a draw away to Chesterfield when a win would have put destiny in our hands. Anyway that all in the past but just to say it's BRILLIANT to have two (let alone one) real top quality forwards in the team. Without them relegation an almost certainty.
Carl at 15:35:17 Monday August 14 2000
Of course you are right. Thank you for joining in such a serious debate, and of course welcome back for the new season, may it bring you happiness and cheer, when you beat us, and of course you will (you after all did win Saturday and we could only draw) please don't be too nasty as that is not very nice at all. Oh and before I forget my best wishes for the rest of the season, may your points total equal 138, and may Barry Fry get the freedom of Peterborough. Bye Bye and thankyou once more.
DEK at 15:35:4 Monday August 14 2000
Does anyone remember Carlo scoring ala Jamie, except the free-kick against Stoke. Very overated last season, he was one on the main reasons we did stay up the season before !!!
DEK at 15:32:9 Monday August 14 2000
We do not use the subs as much as other teams because Wilson hasn't a clue how to change things. I am still waiting to see a tactical change from him. Even Saturday it was a case of one striker on, one off. Ironically all last season I said that we should play 3 centre-halves because of the squad yet we played 4-4-2, now we have the squad for it we play 5-3-2. We now have wide players, Hargreaves, Hodge, with defenders Frain, Hendon and Spedding who have / can play midfield or defence yet play 5-3-2 with Frain not really providing much going forward and Hargreaves out of position. Personally I believe that 4-3-3 with Howard in there would give teams something to really worry about. We played some good stuff Saturday but there was still a lot of high long balls which is why Howard should play.
Posh Fan at 15:18:5 Monday August 14 2000
It's a sad fact of life that you will always have something to moan about.........when you support shite. Everyone knows we're the pride of the area, so admit it, you were well named
I support Northampton and therefore.... at 14:29:25 Monday August 14 2000
there is always something to moan about.
Lost ..... at 14:7:2 Monday August 14 2000
....16 pages from my programme. Didn't the club make large noises about its fantastic 96 page programme from this season? What happened?
marco at 14:3:18 Monday August 14 2000
Decent performance on saturday, draw the right result in my opinion. PLenty of chances, for both sides. Can't believe the ratings in the sun this morning. Hendon and Hargreaves given 5 while 6 for Frain Gabbi and Hope. Green got 8! Thought Hargreaves had an outstanding debut, got stuck in, decent in the air, and passed and dribbled well, good pass for the goal. Hope was the better of the 3 centre-backs. Don't know who comes up with the scores. On another point, the run-out music was the old track Pigbag, which I know Middlesbrough run out to but it was so quiet not surprised no-one noticed it.
Posh Fan at 12:50:45 Monday August 14 2000
Great start................
Can't wait 'til we whoop your ass later this year.
Love and regards
Dyl at 11:41:40 Monday August 14 2000
Atkin's interviewd in the Express at http://www.sportlive.net/esport/columns/columnist_home.tpl?cid=JWG&aid=336026
Mal at 11:14:28 Monday August 14 2000
Great Game on Saturday, probably the right result in the end. I was really pleased with the way Gabbi and Forester linked up. What amazed me though was the fact that Steve Howard and Hodge didn't come on with about 20 minutes to go. You could see that all the boys were suffering in the heat. I must say that when Stevie did eventually come on he really got the others to step up a gear for the last few minutes. I heard an interview with the Kidderminster Manager about the difference from the Conference to the league is the fitness of the players. I think their is also a big jump from the 3rd to the 2nd. Brentford looked much fitter in the second half and used the subs effectively.
Anon at 10:53:26 Monday August 14 2000
Whah?
TWSP at 10:39:10 Monday August 14 2000
Does the Cobblers squad consist of the most British born players in the Nationwide League. Of the 24 squad members highlighted in the Chron. 21 are English whilst Savage is Irish and Morrow and Wilson are from Northern Ireland.
Very encouraging start to the season Saturday. Is it just my perception or do the Cobblers use less substitutes in a match than the opposition, this was obviously so Saturday and appeared to be the case last season.
Pickled Judge at 10:32:26 Monday August 14 2000
What is the best travel club guys and gals? I am going to Wycombe and need to decide.
Rachel at 9:14:28 Monday August 14 2000
I have just looked on the steps Website (my sis has the addy) Well neway it sayz: On the 14th of November 1975 at 5.30am in the town of Northampton Faye Tozer was born. So thats true then, somthing I didn't know!! So perhaps we could perswade her??!! *Hint hint!*
Mystic Meg at 7:47:15 Monday August 14 2000
Well...they dont call me Mystic Meg for nothing!!! A 1-1 draw as predicted... Maybe we should have won the game but it was great just to be back and Jamie's strike was TREMENDOUS!!!!!!!Look out Beckham!! Dont forget to watch it on Anglia News tonite!!! I for one will be taping it so i can watch it over and over and over again!!! Jamie is GOD!!!! UP THE TOWN!!!
Lemmy at 7:40:40 Monday August 14 2000
Your brother's mate was right Treenie, she was wasting her time with a band that will eventually be nowhere.
Big Roy at 23:29:17 Sunday August 13 2000
MOMAC - "Simply the best" was played immediately prior to kick-off but Fields of Green was played about 10 minutes before the match started and again as we filed out of the ground. It sounded quite effective as a parting tune but I am slightly biased!
Me Again at 23:15:20 Sunday August 13 2000
can't wait untill next Saturday when we spank in a few goals against Wycombe. i'll b there cheering the boys on. More of the same please boys, but hold onto the lead.
only wondering at 23:12:23 Sunday August 13 2000
Has Dobson gone 2 Boro or is it just a rumour i have heard? I'm off 2 Wycombe, but who should i travel with or should i go by car? i must say good performance on Saturday lads and it was good 2 c some nice attractive attacking football played on the ground. Gabbi and Forrester gelled well and i think that Hope, Hunt and the new boy Hargreaves had impressive games. I just wish Savage would score more 1 on 1's when given the chance, if he did he would be in double figures for hte season. We all know what he is capable of as he is a quality player. I c all the old Cobblers scored on Saturday, Carlo 4 Oldham and Parrish 4 Chesterfield. Overall the game was a good one and i think the Cobblers will do well this season. Up the Cobblers and F**k the Posh SCUM.
Ray at 22:57:56 Sunday August 13 2000
6300 looked about right to me - there was a block of 500 in the East Stand completely empty and I saw loads of empty seats elsewere.
;-) at 22:39:45 Sunday August 13 2000
:-p
;-) at 22:39:40 Sunday August 13 2000
:-p
;-) at 22:39:39 Sunday August 13 2000
:-p
Tony at 22:34:28 Sunday August 13 2000
Who calculates the atendences? 6300, yea right! Show me the 1200 empty seats Mr (or Mrs)?
MartinW at 21:59:36 Sunday August 13 2000
Plumbob - No sure exactly what you mean. But I don't think many would argue that there is no point having a top striking team if you have big holes in defence. We have financial problems. But at the start of the season, we were told by the chairman that we had little room to manouvre if we bought Forrester. We have and got Gabbiadini and Hargreaves and they are great signings, undoubtedly. And it is no ingracious or ungrateful to suggest that we could do with a quality central defender. I believe it would make the difference. Remember we do have a tiny squad, I'm told it is by far the smallest in the division. And one extra player is not too much. If old Dougy Hodgson had not get injured. Anyway, remember we have lost a central defender who has not been replaced in Dobson. Still, great start.
Deepcut Cobbler at 21:55:53 Sunday August 13 2000
Treenie, Still got a contact to remind her where she came from or does she secretly support the Cobblers already?
Maybe we could run out to one of their hits but I suggest not tragedy!
TRB Mark at 21:54:27 Sunday August 13 2000
It's strange that Brentford were talking about us being a big physical side, but compared to them, we were midgets!
treenie at 21:50:45 Sunday August 13 2000
It's true. My brother knows somebody who went out with Faye from Steps and he's kicking himself because he dumped her for wasting her time with a group that won't get anywhere.
Deepcut Cobbler at 21:40:33 Sunday August 13 2000
During the boring close season we were discussing famous celebrities who would support either profile wise or money wise. One for the younger element, my daughter pointed out that Faye? from STEPS was born and bred in the Town, where and which school I am not aware. Maybe one of the younger set knows her and can tap her up for profile and monetary support. She must be worth a packet. Mel C does it for Liverpool why not her for the Cobblers?? Only a thought, I am too old to notice these young girls in pop groups, all info from my daughter. Any details anyone?? COME ON YOU COBBLERS!!!!
Deepcut Cobbler at 21:32:34 Sunday August 13 2000
Sounds like I missed a cracking first game of the season. Nice to be back in the second with the better class of football. From all of the comments it appears that we are looking forward to an entertaining season, which will make a change. Did anyone read the Ian Atkins interview in the Express on Saturday claiming that Arsene Wengar couldn't do his job at Carlisle!! One for the insider, he mentioned that the reason he was "sacked", or one of the reasons leading up to it, was that he "bombed the vice-chairmans son out of the YTS scheme"!! And board members joining in on the Atkins out shouts?? Any further info on this? COME ON YOU COBBLERS!!!!! p.s. Noticed Carlo Corrazin scored for Oldham... But he can only score for them when he isn't playing for Canada!!
Mark Too at 20:52:52 Sunday August 13 2000
I don't think the winner of the "song to run out to" was played yesterday. It certainly wasn't one of the expected winners that was played, but i noticed that shortly after the teams were out they played "Simply the best" very quietly, so maybe that won but they are too embarrased to play it.
My old mans a Cobbler. at 20:13:36 Sunday August 13 2000
After all the palava of voting for a tune to run out to I didn't even notice what it was,any one out there notice what it was? Looking around the sites,Brentford supporters seem to think they should have gone home with 3 points,is it just me,I thought we were the better team yesterday.
Rachel at 19:6:53 Sunday August 13 2000
I went to the Saints open Day earlier + thought it was pretty good! + I think that the Cobblers should do one. (I think it would be really popular)I vaugley remember that they had organised one, but princess Diana died so they cancelled it as a mark of respect (is that right?)
Danny at 18:57:51 Sunday August 13 2000
Pickled Judge - I'm going with Jimmies
Danny at 18:34:42 Sunday August 13 2000
An entertaining opening match with enough chances for both sides to win but I thought a draw was a fair result. Jamie Forresters goal was absolutly fantastic. If £150,000 gets you that sort of talent then I'd love to see what Luis Figo can do on a good day. Jamie and Gabbi linked up quite well and it looks as if they will have a good partnership in a couple of games time. Looking forward to Wycombe, the first away game of the season. Sure beats travelling to Carlisle.
Barleymow at 18:33:43 Sunday August 13 2000
Good game yesterday. Pleasing to see how well Gabbiadini and Forrester gelled. I get the feeling that, in contrast to other recent seasons, we're going to score a lot of goals, but see leads squandered by dodgy defending. Didn't have a lot of confidence in either Sampson or Green yesterday. Both looked short of pace. Still, can't complain. If we continue to play like that we'll win a lot of games this season.
nsb at 17:39:38 Sunday August 13 2000
woody wasnt on the bench hes at southednd????
although it was most amusing when the north stand started chanting theres only one andy woodman!
Pickled Judge at 17:26:37 Sunday August 13 2000
Wycombe. Who to travel with? That is the question. Your views guys?
Hartwell Cobbler at 17:5:30 Sunday August 13 2000
Have to agree wholeheartedly with the comments frpom TRB,Nene Valley Cob, Dek et al ref y'day's game. Brentford were a very big, physical, side (although not overtly dirty) and that made it difficult for us in many ways. Mark's point about bringing on Hodge was something I was both expecting and anticipating in the second half. We worked hard to counter their physical and aerial threat but at times played into their hands by trying to match them, when we'd have been better trying to outsmart and outrun them. To that end I felt we should have used the flanks more, taken the ball down the wings, got behind their fullback and whipped in some quick crosses. Their centrtal defenders were a bit slow on the turn and had we got b ehind them more I feel sure we'd have won the game - although I agree a draw was indeed a fair result on the balance of play. But, a lot of admire, much to give us hope and expectations and a good, hard, game given the heat.
anon at 17:4:37 Sunday August 13 2000
TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN I MEAN YOU BRENTFORD C***S WHY DAMAGE MY CAR IN THE SIXFIELDS CARPARK BEFORE THE GAME OR AFTER THE GAME HERE,S HOPING YOU READ THIS MESSAGE MAYBE YOU WONT HAVING SAID THAT I DOUBT THAT YOU CAN USE A COMPUTER
TRB Mark at 16:15:23 Sunday August 13 2000
Thoroughly enjoyed yesterdays game, especially as it was the first first game of the season I've see in 13 years! (The other 12 years I was at Bristol Balloon Fiesta). I thought a draw was a fair result but what bothered me was the ref in the second half letting Brentford get away with elbows in faces etc, yet pulling us up for every niggle. I also think, master tactician that I am (not) that sticking Hodge out wide for the last 20 minutes when everyone might have begun to flag in the heat might have caused a bit of chaos, esp with Steve Howard in the middle. Both Goalies had blinding games and I can see why Woody is (was) on the subs bench. See you at the Balloon Festival!
Nene Valley Cobbler at 15:46:18 Sunday August 13 2000
Enjoyed the game against Brentford. Thought the two strikers both played well but
was concerned that the five-man defence again played too deep in the second half.
I think Wilson should be bold and switch back to a four-man defence and get Frain
back into midfield where he is more at home. The midfield we had out on Saturday
was too lightweight. Hodge has to play at home at least and get Savage wide on the
left. I'm glad the club has reversed the crass decision to keep supporters away from
reserve team games. Which beauty thought that one up, I wonder? Remember,
Sixfields is a community stadium so a tenant would have great difficulty keeping
punters away. I think the landlord might have objected! I understand the concerns
about losing money but the £10,000 could be recouped if only the matter was given
a little bit of thought. Still, glad to see sanity has prevailed... but why does the club
shoot itself in the foot so easily?
DEK at 14:10:24 Sunday August 13 2000
Just to correct a couple of earlier postings, Simon: it was Hargreaves who supplied Jamie's goal.
MartinW: The free-kick can only be moved forwards if the player is booked for the offence.
DEK at 14:5:52 Sunday August 13 2000
A draw was more than a fair result, which is quite worrying for the season. Its early days I know but do we really think that we can win every game 1-0. When we got the goal we went straight to a flat 5 defenders with the midfield 3 10 yards in front. Providing Gabbi, Forrester and Howard stay fit, then they should do enough to keep us up. Hunt had the best 20 minutes in a Cobblers shirt, when he played positively and played the ball forwarded !! and got into the box a couple of times.
Plumbob at 12:47:3 Sunday August 13 2000
Martin W. Ref squad size,we can't have it all way's .Would you have three extra players in the squad or no Forrester or Marco ? Kevin had a budget and that's how he chose to spend it.I bet he's more than pleased with the money the director's came up with.
Sid at 12:38:21 Sunday August 13 2000
Absolutely brillant match yesterday, showing all the signs we can do something in this division. We showed touches of brilliance at times - but also we need to get those tackles in! If that Gabbiadini backheel had come off and had Savage took it on and scored, it would have match Forrester effort! Looking back at the comments here, I have to agree our defence was only adequate, with not enough closing down. We cannot afford to let attackers run at us. Possibly another central defensive signing soon?? Welchy was superb, tipping the ball onto the bar from Andy Scott's shot then saving the follow-up. I thought James Hunt played excellent in the centre mid position - He's really making that place his own in the abscence of Hunter.
George - Bucks N1 Cobbler at 12:38:15 Sunday August 13 2000
See you all at Wycombe
Traffic Cop at 10:38:39 Sunday August 13 2000
The bus lane going into town on Weedon road is only operable between 7:30 and 9:30 AM mon to sat
MartinW at 10:38:27 Sunday August 13 2000
Did anyone notice the ref getting it wrong with the new rule about gaining ten yards if the opposition do not get back adequately at a free kick. He booked the player that Mr Del Monte character took a minute then realised the ball should go forward ten yards. Mr Del Monte should not have been booked.
Uncle Richard at 10:35:42 Sunday August 13 2000
Can someone please explain the new 6 second rule for 'keepers. Apart from a sprint to the edge of the box early on from Welch, it didn't seem to make any difference.
Pete at 10:32:18 Sunday August 13 2000
Yes, forget all else- this was a great game with a lot of promise. Brentford were good ( Thanks Lads!- good supporters, no real nastiness), very big, very strong. I thought a lot of our good play came from Frain and Gabby- he made so much for the others. On the subject of pace- the were very slick but managed only one goal and that was not about pace.. but yes, I feel a bit uneasy. Will Gabby accept the supporting role? He reallyis an excellent provider of chances, wonderful 'touch'... but you can't be the main provider, the target man and the goal scorer... see 1 million previous comments over the years. The only time we lost it was when we tried the big ball to their huge defenders
Anon at 10:21:23 Sunday August 13 2000
Good up front but at times some of the defending was very Div 3 and poor. Brentford largely played to our strengths at the back, other teams will run at us and cause problems. We need a central defender with some pace. On a brighter note I think we might do well away from home, we looked very dangerous on the break and first signs of the new boys very encouraging. Outstanding goal from Jamie.
MartinW at 10:17:57 Sunday August 13 2000
A bit disappointing in the end, but boy, what entertainment. Yes, ENTERTAINMENT. Remember that word. Gabbiadini looked class and the understanding he has with Forrester was there for all to say. Hunt had his best game from Northampton that I've seen. Chris Hargreaves looks a great nick, hussles and harries for the ball, looks comfortable with it at his feet and great movement, can dribble as well. Fab player, as I remembered when Plymouth came here. A revelation. One touch football warm ups and then you see it on the pitch. Jaw dropping stuff. Savage should not be criticised too harshly for THAT miss. When he went on a dribble and then forgot to go left or right when approaching the keeper. He sometimes forgets to do the simple things. But he got there, that's what's important. In fact he was everywhere.
My on tinge of worry and I think it will come in future games as well is the defence. We look very short of pace there. In fact you could see the goal coming, because Richard Green was being left standing by runs from their forwards. Even Sammo was exposed and remember they are both in their 30s. And he looked like the heat effected him badly. His face was crimson by the end But the problem is who do you replace him with. There is nobody on the bench, because we don't have adequate cover - with one of the smallest if not THE smallest squads in the Division. The goal and the fact that Wilson played with five at the back, shows that there is a wee bit of doubt there. I think we need cover in the centre back position, basically.
AF at 9:38:40 Sunday August 13 2000
Good to see so many new home shirts at the first match of the season. Well done to the club for making them available early this year and coming up with a decent shirt. There'll be at least 2 at Wembley today. Trying to get my own back for all those MU shirts I see at Cobbs games
Andy at 9:2:3 Sunday August 13 2000
How times have changed. Cobbs playing all the Football, the opposition hoofing the long ball!! MOM for me was James Hunt. Played a very mature game. Ran the game from midfield. And supplied the ball for Jamie's goal. I thought Hargreaves was excellent too. Some of his passing was in a different class. Gabbiadini, Forrester and Richard Hope also worth a mention. If the quality of the football on show yesterday is a taste of things to come, it's going to be a great season.
Terry Hawes at 0:19:59 Sunday August 13 2000
Good job boys...way to hang in there!
Wycombe will be an awkward one, say another 1-1 draw although a win wouldn't surprise me.
How did Hargreaves do today?
Cheers,
Terry
nsb at 23:17:8 Saturday August 12 2000
sorry to keep on at you but i aggree all cockney clubs are for puffs who have no c***s! and thats my 2p worth!
nsb at 23:14:46 Saturday August 12 2000
i know 1-1 isnt too bad but with such a great atmos we managed to make which is as good as any match ive ever been to the result kindof put the dampeners on the whole thing........
nsb at 23:11:46 Saturday August 12 2000
and WHY do we have frain as a winger? a winger is expected to run with the ball occasionally, KW please dont do like kevin keegan and play the captain just cos hes the captain if there are better players for the job (ie spedding) the pick them!
nsb at 23:9:39 Saturday August 12 2000
yes they gave all the space they possibly could to the other team!
Mark Too at 22:44:20 Saturday August 12 2000
Gomez... I believe I was at the same match as you.... but quite a few people supporting Brentford appear to have been wearing Rose coloured specs... I hope this clears up a few things for you!
West Stand Elite at 22:42:14 Saturday August 12 2000
Yeah I'm with you on that one Happy !
Funniest bit of today was when that fat cow in the Cobblers seats squeeled at some poor bloke to sit down cause she couldn't see. That was one mean bitch!
Oh...and best bit.....JF's goal...MG's ball control...except for his 1st touch when he was clean through on goal!
Happy Cobbler at 22:38:42 Saturday August 12 2000
What a cracking first game back in Div 2. The passing today was a different class to anything we've seen from the Cobblers in the past.Well done a a great first day. Pity we went quiet in the second hals with the singing. Still it was good just watching that skinny twat in the white t-shirt in the Bees end making a fool of himself.Did anyone see the fat git in the green sitting near him? Looked like the baloon festival had started early. Is it me or does any body else feel that Brentfors fans are getting as annoying as Fulham used to be...."I'm from London and I you are just scum because you live somewhere else!" Does anyone else feel they are a bunch of arrogant tits who can't afford Chelsea?
Great stuff when we sang "We're not very good we are f....ng shit"....after they had been singing it at us every time we made an error......COCKNEY DICKHEADS!
Gomez at 22:30:30 Saturday August 12 2000
Just been reading some reports/comments on various websites/text pages - apparently Brentford were the better side and deserved to win! Did I go to the right game?!?! It was played at Sixfields - yes? Between a team in claret and a team in yellow? Please tell me I went to the right game, because I could have sworn we wuz robbed!
Mark Too at 22:27:41 Saturday August 12 2000
Anon 22:03... I'm afraid your comment makes absolutely no sense at all. If Brentford are a poor side how do they hit the post twice, and Welch made some great saves? Me thinks you types b4 you thinks!
Kylie & Jason at 22:17:13 Saturday August 12 2000
Hope you are happy with the new neighbours Ray!
What? at 22:8:37 Saturday August 12 2000
That's an interesting use of the ego concept.
Anon at 22:3:27 Saturday August 12 2000
great knews wilsons signed a new contract, iwonder if you will be saying that in one months time. brentford will get relegated this season and are a poor side .they hit the post twice and welch made some great saves ,your getting carried away by an EGO.
Deepcut Cobbler at 21:25:25 Saturday August 12 2000
No match report for us unfortunates? Are you all out on the ale celebrating the new season? Sounds like a good start. At least we were not losing for a change!! If Jamie's goal was spectacular, didn't Carlo start on a cracker when he joined us?? Match report please and COME ON YOU COBBLERS!!!!!
Anon at 21:20:25 Saturday August 12 2000
Good game! PLayed much betta in the 2nd 1/2! Well done ladz!! Even tho we didn't win, a draw is betta than a loss!
John at 20:34:24 Saturday August 12 2000
Enjoyed todays game. A good atmosphere and I thought Gabbathingy was a class above the rest. Play like this for the rest of the season and you will definetly be trading places with SAM'S ARMY.
William Davidson at 20:26:51 Saturday August 12 2000
Wishing The Cobblers all the best for this season in the hope that they can make Div.1
MAD4IT at 20:25:57 Saturday August 12 2000
Jamie Forrester what can you say about that goal sheer class
Keithy boy did well also to make some great saves perhaps john hodge should of came on towards the end should have won that i thought
Never satisfied at 20:18:51 Saturday August 12 2000
Excellent as Jamie's goal was, it would have been even better if it had been Woody stretching full length but failing to get a finger to it!
Rudolph Hucker at 20:16:40 Saturday August 12 2000
Will someone please remind me how good Gabbo is and how lucky we are to have him. I think I'm missing something.
Tony at 20:13:56 Saturday August 12 2000
Marco was class, if he carries on like that the lesser teams in this devision will have lots of problems with him! Dave Savage, please try scoring in a 1 on 1 for a change!
Tony at 20:12:50 Saturday August 12 2000
I know 1 goal doesn't repay a £150,000 fee. However, if one goal was ever gonna repay a £150,000 fee, Jamie's today would be that goal!!!
Mark Too at 19:53:54 Saturday August 12 2000
I can't agree nsb. I thought every player gave his all today!
ORBITAL Ganja at 19:50:40 Saturday August 12 2000
1-1 isn't so bad a start to life back in a higher division. Sweltering heat today thought!
nsb at 19:19:29 Saturday August 12 2000
before anyone starts slagging off the referee id just like to say that our defence was ablolutely pitiful! they were so laid back they were allmost asleep! if it wasnt for hunt tireless work in the middle and welchys miracle shot-stopping it could have been much MUCH worse than 1-1, on a more positive note JAMIE JAMIE was superb and capped it all with a spectacular goal...... i dont think sixfields has ever erupted like that before!
lone at 19:7:25 Saturday August 12 2000
oh jamie, jamie
jamie, jamie, jamie, jamie forrester!!!!
The Romsey Cobbler at 19:6:2 Saturday August 12 2000
Come on Ray - let's see a table for the Tipping Competition. Top top top top top of the league!
Pickled Judge at 18:20:48 Saturday August 12 2000
1 - 1 then. Cracking game I thought and I bet Brentford are thereabouts at the end of the season. Lovely strike from Forrester. The quality is a world apart from the third division don't you think?
Bit tired at the back towards the end.
COYC
bobby at 16:22:37 Saturday August 12 2000
Top commentary from Adam on BBC Radio Northampton- much better than the robots on the internet radio version. Adam seems to really know his stuff
Ian at 16:21:15 Saturday August 12 2000
The first league goal for Kidderminster is scored by: IAN CLARKSON! As far as I can tell from afar, we are 0-0.
London Cobbler at 14:54:6 Saturday August 12 2000
Good luck to the Cobblers this season lets hope we finish near the top and that the f***ing Boro get sent back down where they belong.Up the Cobblers down with the Posh.
BIG JIM at 14:45:35 Saturday August 12 2000
Does anybody know of a website that is playing the match live on the internet?
BIG JIM at 14:45:31 Saturday August 12 2000
Does anybody know of a website that is playing the match live on the internet?
CIJ at 13:55:51 Saturday August 12 2000
Well I'm off to the game now!!!! It's seems like ages but the season has finally arrived. See you all at Sixfields. Does anyone know if the club shop have any home shirts in as they always seem to sell out on the first day of the season??
TRCDU at 12:47:57 Saturday August 12 2000
Well down here we've already played .It's 9:45pm Saturday night and we won 3-1 and are all pissed as forts !! Forrester scored the first with 2 following from the Gabba.Good start to the season and a fine start to the The Tipping Comp !What was that tune they ran out to???
Pickled Judge at 12:40:14 Saturday August 12 2000
Off to Sixfields now.
COME ON YOU COBBLERS!!!
William Thorp at 12:37:17 Saturday August 12 2000
My Uncle's picking me up for the game.I think he said 12:00pm.
Linda Lusardi at 12:8:21 Saturday August 12 2000
Don't be late in from footie Ray, I wouldn,t want you to miss tonight's lick-off!
Anon at 12:4:26 Saturday August 12 2000
See the County won then!
Anon at 11:35:24 Saturday August 12 2000
It's Saturday, It's the 12th day of August in the year 2000. We all know what that means, National Lottery day? No, Big Break on the telly No, Cobblers at home to Brentford in the first fixture of the new season, COULD BE!!! COME ON THE TOWN, stuff it up the Bretford Chairman's nose, "bloody Northampton" et. COME ON!!!!!
Ray at 11:22:2 Saturday August 12 2000
hmmmm - wonder what the lickoff is? Something to do with icecreams?
Ray at 11:21:18 Saturday August 12 2000
Well here we go! I'm now getting a touch of the jitters - will we perform as well as most people expect - will we play 442 - will my new seat have decent people surrounding it - have they finished the roadworks by the stadium or will eveyone be late for the lickoff - who will be the target for the booboys this season....this list goes on.
THICK 9 YEAR OLD at 11:4:25 Saturday August 12 2000
I CAN'T WAIT TILL 7:45PM FIRST MATCH.
SUNDERLAND COBBLER at 10:59:0 Saturday August 12 2000
Hello one and all. Well the season starts today. I think that we can stay up and finish in the top ten. Todays game will be tough. Howevere we will win 2-0 with goals from Gabbi and Howard. VIVA LA REVOULTION. DAVE.E
Steve at 9:5:10 Saturday August 12 2000
Great news! Kevin Wilson has agreed a new two year contract as manager.
Captain Calender at 8:45:37 Saturday August 12 2000
Just one week to go! Only one more boring Saturday to get through! Ooh, I can't wait. Now, what shall I do today? . . . . . . . . . .
GETTING NERVOUS at 8:22:10 Saturday August 12 2000
WHENS MY SEASON TICKET GOING TO ARRIVE????????
Atmoshpheric Cobbler at 7:56:21 Saturday August 12 2000
OK, so who left me in bloody Torquay then ????? It has taken me ages to get back !!! Not to worry, at least I`m back for the first game of the season eh ? UTC......FTP !
Tales of Brentford at 6:30:12 Saturday August 12 2000
One of the finest players that ever played for the Cobblers and the Bs was Stevie Phillips, fab player.
Tales of Brentford at 6:29:23 Saturday August 12 2000
Does anyone remember the 70s, we were away to Brentford it was either the FA Cup or league match circa 1974. We all were getting tanked in a pub, that had had a disco the night before, i was peed as a Parrot and we all decided that the DJs record collection was for us, I woke up in the morning the proud owner of Maurice Albert's Feeling on Decca - was that sad, went down the pub and my mate had Donny Osmonds Puppy love - I felt better. But if you happen to be the West London DJ who lost his records please let us know your address and we will return them if you still have a record player....
BUZZ at 6:25:40 Saturday August 12 2000
Noades for England - he would do a better job that Keegan!
S at 6:24:42 Saturday August 12 2000
.
E at 6:24:29 Saturday August 12 2000
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E at 6:24:19 Saturday August 12 2000
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B at 6:24:3 Saturday August 12 2000
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To Col at 6:23:15 Saturday August 12 2000
Are you `up' TCs rectum?
We are away today? at 6:22:20 Saturday August 12 2000
According to P..h twat!
The Bicester Cobbler at 2:40:32 Saturday August 12 2000
Perkins Posh - Glad to see you are taking an interest in the safety of us Cobblers fans. If I were you I would worry more about your own travelling arrangements and have a quick check that you have looked at this weeks fixtures and not next!!!!
Perkins Posh at 0:21:42 Saturday August 12 2000
Aye up Wobblers...Hows it going...Looking forward to the game tomorrow? Like us I would say u got one of the easier away trips of the season tomorrow...Lets hope u get nothing out of it...Have a nice day & safe travelling & NIL points.....CYA
TRCDU at 0:9:54 Saturday August 12 2000
Well here we go and there really is only one thing that needs to be said NTFC DIV II MILLENNIUM CHAMPIONS!!!!!!! Come on the Town!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
theresa green at 0:7:3 Saturday August 12 2000
e i ei eio up the football league we go, when we win promotion this is what well sing, we are cobblers, we are cobblers, kevin wilsons team.....bollox NOADES
clive the cobbler at 23:56:49 Friday August 11 2000
Dear friends and fellow supporters we are only just a few hours away from watching once again 'One of the best teams in the world' kick-off a new season.
GOOD LUCK TO KEVIN AND THE BOYS.......... PLEASE GET BEHIND THEM TOMORROW AND ALL OF THE SEASON.
PREDICTION - Somehow, someway...... PROMOTED... WE DESERVE IT!!
LIFE IS ALL COBBLERS.... LUV YA ALL
Phil Baron at 23:45:6 Friday August 11 2000
Good luck tomorrow lads I will be there in spirit!!!
Col at 23:36:12 Friday August 11 2000
TCMP thank you for your reply, let us hope that the new blood helps the trust regain it's direction, that has been lacking for too long now. And let us also remind ourselves that the trust is there TO HELP, NOT TO HINDER.
Scouse at 23:20:52 Friday August 11 2000
Well here we are again!Another season of ups and downs(mostly ups I hope)and the mighty Cobbs are on there way to the First Division(got to start with dreams you know)Everything looks good for the start of the season and can't wait for tommorow to come.My only wish is for the Cobbs to give a good account of themselves and you never know we just might surprise a few people!I took 25-1 for us to go up and I think by christmas it will look a bloody good betwhen we are down to 5-1,like I say you have got to have dreams..........Oh! and one more thing,what division are you in Direones...enough said!!!
COME ON COBBS
Rudolph Hucker at 22:50:19 Friday August 11 2000
Oh Whoopee! Tell someone who cares.
Matthew Hayden's White Armeeeee! at 22:45:25 Friday August 11 2000
Looks like the County will win by an innings and some, to maintain their grip at the top of the table.
Uncle Richard at 22:33:2 Friday August 11 2000
Good luck Cobblers
Sid at 22:12:1 Friday August 11 2000
Any last GTA's while we are at it?? COME ON TOWN!!!!!
To Vince - EBayed!! at 20:45:3 Friday August 11 2000
Soccer Badges on there way next post!!! I will be cheering for u tomorrow enjoy the wedding!!
Christopher Mason at 20:37:58 Friday August 11 2000
I am thinking of putting together a "Let's All Laugh At Peterborough !" messageboard for my website (http://come.to/chrismason). Would any of you visit and post messages if I did ? As you lot hate p*sh as well the mighty cambridge united I thought it just might be a success.
E-Mail me with your comments and suggestions.
MartinW at 20:32:24 Friday August 11 2000
The time has come! When Gabriella Sabatini and Phillipa Forrester will stride onto the Sixfields turf (hopefully injury free). Will they make the idea partnership up front? Is our defence strong enough. Will Hargreaves load the gun for the front two. Will Savvo recover his form? All this and more from 3pm tomorrow. Be there or be.... well somewhere else.
UP THE BLOODY COBBLERS. COME ON AND GET RIGHT IN!
Spud at 20:18:4 Friday August 11 2000
What time is the kick off at Bury.Trust Travel and Sixfields Travel
set for 3 o'clock kick off,but in tonights paper it's down as a 7.45 kick off.
Sid at 18:9:32 Friday August 11 2000
NTFC - Unofficial has now been launched, the URL is:-
http://northamptontown.rivals.net
The site is run by myself and also Banford. The new site has all the old features as the free-online site including GTA etc.. but also has several new sections and features.
Anyone visiting my old site after 10pm tonight:-
http://www.cobblers.free-online.co.uk
will be redirected to the new site.
Feel free to browse the site, and also to post any comments regarding anything Cobblers related on the new messageboard. Check out the Story Index located on the left hand navigation bar to see all stories posted within the past month, and be sure to vote for who you think will be Towns Top Scorer this coming season.
Pickled Judge at 16:46:45 Friday August 11 2000
O.K. so hear we go guys. Only hours now. I have washed my shirt and scrubbed my boots so now its Cobblers all the way. Don't forget 3 - 1 to the boys in claret. I am so excited I could explode.
Vince at 15:55:42 Friday August 11 2000
It certainly is a contrast to this time last year although I did enjoy the postings from Hypocrates. Whatever the results we can look forward to plenty of entertaining football in the knowledge that Kev is flexible enough to change things around if neccesary. Sods law I will miss the first game due to a family wedding but the mobile will be fully charged and with any luck the I do bit by the bride will be met with a "YESSSSS - GABBIADINI"
My old mans a Cobbler. at 15:40:52 Friday August 11 2000
Rons 22,cracking posting mate.
SBJ at 15:19:36 Friday August 11 2000
PATTCOBB, I've told Darren Lewis several times that we won't finish above about 7th or 8th (he's my flatmate) but he won't listen to me! I asked him to put something positive in the paper about us in advance of the season starting, but he obviously took me too literally. I'll have a word . . .
TCMP at 15:13:57 Friday August 11 2000
I thought it was an appropriate time for an update. First on the reserve game debate. As soon as I heard I made contact to the club who confirmed that the latter had gone out but of course the board had not met to endorse the decision. The problems lies solely with the fact that the club like anyone else has to pay a fee for the hire of the ground for those events that are outside the main contract. The price quoted was too high and as result there was the risk of having to play behind closed doors. However I promised to raise the matter at the next board meeting and I will still do so so we can discuss all aspects of the reserve team fixtures including whether or not to levy an additional charge for non season ticket holders to helpmeet the costs. Col On the Trust Open Forum Front they will be held every six weeks throughout the season and the trust have appointed an officer to deal solely with the arrangements and planning As soon as we have the dates we will post them on the site. At the EGM in July 12 new volunteers came forward to assist the trust and all of them have been appointed to the exec In addition to the forums there will also be a newsletter service for trust members and a regular updating of the trust website. So hopefully the service for fans will improve. We have also appointed a rep for National supporters federation meetings and are talking to the club about an improved input to the matchday programme. Finally I apoligise for those who keep thinking I am not out there, I am I read cobblers comments on at least an every other day basis but have decided to limit comments to stop the silly abuse that sometimes follows such as that from people such as "politics" below. Any way less then 24hrs to go and for those unable to catch the action I will be doing my regular half-time and fulltime reports on Northants 96.6 Come on the cobblers
PATTCOBB at 15:11:23 Friday August 11 2000
Just about on the 24 hour mark then. No more postings from me for a while , a few days off of work.BUT,DID anyone who reads the MIRROR notice that journalist Darren Lewis has tipped us to finish 2nd in the table .Mind you a colleague of his had us to finish 3rd in division 3.Obviously very learned these so-called football journos.Anyway GOOD LUCK TO THE LADS TOMORROW I WILL BE THERE CHEERING, KICKING EVERY BALL AND CELEBRATING EVERY GOAL...............PATTCOBB URGES ALL COBBS EVERYWHERE WHETHER ABLE TO ATEND TOMORROW OR NOT TO RAISE THEIR GLASSES TONIGHT AT 9.00PM HERES TO THE NEXT 9 MONTHS -UTP FTP...etc,etc,etc
Ron's 22 at 15:1:12 Friday August 11 2000
Just think, at this stage last season we were just getting ready to head up to Macclesfield, where we would be 'treated' to one of the more abysmal Cobblers performances of recent years, and from where we would traipse away feeling like a wasted time was had by all. 8 weeks of miserable disharmony and promises of non-attendance at games followed, and thoughts of a relegation battle for Northampton began to cross some people's minds. It wouldn't be tempting fate too strongly to notice how things have turned around: on the back of a late promotion run which still stands as a near-unbelievable achievement, we now have a strong team full of well-regarded players under a progressive and positive manager. I pesonally expect a victory for us tomorrow over Brentford, but if we were to draw or lose it would not be a cause for despondency - things WILL go our way this season; we may not win the league, we may not even make the play-offs, but whatever happens we will, I believe, finish this season a stronger and more ready club than we have been for ages. More so than when we reached Wembley against Grimsby - this time we'll be solid throughout, not just bouyant on temporary success. This time other teams will respect us, both as a football team and as a club that is going places in a sensible and practical way. In years to come we'll look back on this season as being The One When We Got Things Right, the one when we laid down a foundation that set us up for promotion to the First Division, where we can hold a solid position if not up there with the Big Boys then at least hanging around nicely like Norwich or QPR. To steal from Ron's 22 - this time we'll get it right! UP THE COBBLERS!!
The H (Bees fan) at 14:41:38 Friday August 11 2000
Noadsey won't be there tomorrow, he's in Spain with his son. So we have the delights of watching the Bees managed by Lewington & Bullivant, the two best managers to grace world football.
BTW last time I saw Brentford win was v Bury in January. Why do we do it eh?? I could be having a good laff this w/e, instead I HAVE to watch my team...
Carl at 13:48:28 Friday August 11 2000
IT IS HERE http://web.ukonline.co.uk/ntfc/tipping.htm
Yes where is.... at 13:40:30 Friday August 11 2000
the damn thing?
Tipping Cobbler at 13:39:46 Friday August 11 2000
Where is the tipping table kept this year, I need to do the whole season this time round please help before I go home 5.30 if poss.
PATTCOBB at 13:17:31 Friday August 11 2000
Gabbiadini to score within 5 minutes of the start.........Real terrace hero stuff.He's big headed,arrogant,he argues with referees,opponents,teammates,he wears his heart on his sleeve...and he's OURS.Going to Northampton-on sea (Great Yarmouth) on Sunday watch out for my GABBIADINI........ONE NIL T-shirt next week.
Anon at 13:1:49 Friday August 11 2000
TWENTY SIX
BJSB at 12:23:38 Friday August 11 2000
A couple of pensioners are in bed one night, when the old boy raises
his bumcheek and lets off a massive fart.
'One-nil!' he shouts.
'What's this all that about?' asks his missus.'It's fart football,' he says, 'and your losing one-nil.'
So the old woman tears one off and shouts 'one-all!'
The old man then goes ahead again, with the wife making a loud
equalizer. Realising he could be beaten at his own game, the old boy tries
to
squeeze out a real rip-roarer but shits the bed making a huge squawking
noise in
the process.
'What was that?' asked his wife.
'Half-time," he replies, 'now we swap sides...'
Dyl at 12:16:37 Friday August 11 2000
Anyone who has been watching Big Brother will enjoy visiting this website: http://www.dc8p.com/bigbrother.html It's just a bit of fun!
Anon at 11:42:51 Friday August 11 2000
It might be a good idea to give Mr. Noades some grief tomorrow, as I reckon their own fans may just join in, having read what he has said, and what Brentfords fans have said of him.
Danny at 11:34:12 Friday August 11 2000
Oh well, nice to see the board did a U-turn. Still can't go to the reserves anyway as I work 7-3/3-11 split shifts. Nevermind. More importantly though, tomorrow is the first day of the season................ COME ON COBBLERS!!!!!!!!!
Carl at 11:5:52 Friday August 11 2000
Have they ever been?
andy at 11:5:12 Friday August 11 2000
You may be interested in a new website I've set up - Links 4 Football. It provides links to only the best club websites for English teams, including local newspapers, official sites and unoffical sites. The theory is that it will help fans check out the latest news from their opponents throughout the season so check out and bookmark http://www.geocities.com/links4football
DavCobbler at 10:59:48 Friday August 11 2000
Earliest memories of playing the glorious, terrific, wonderful, oh so mighty, oh so full of emselves own shite Bees.............. County ground.......many years ago.......Cobbs go 2-0 up........then win a penalty......... John "knocker" Gregory does a "Stam" with the pen and sends the ball into Earth`s orbit...........when then went on to concede two late goals and the game ended a draw.....the MILLIONS of Brentford fans went on their merry way back to the golden stage that is Griffin Park...........Oh the memories.......Funny......but I can`t remember Brentord being that BIG a team then either ?>???
TRB Mark at 10:46:6 Friday August 11 2000
No doubt that Brentford will think that this is a big match for us tomorrow if Noade's comments and the arrogance displayed by their fans in the book "Survival of the Fattest" (a reviw of the season as seen through the eyes of fanzine writers) is anything to go by. Apparently, when they dropped into the 3rd for a season, teams were treating Brentford's visit as (wait for it) "their cup final!!". They also enjoyed being a "bigger fish in a small pond". and considered themselves "too big" for the 3rd. Another fanzine wrote "teams rose to the occassion of playing what they considered were the 'big time charlies' from London." Big headed Charlies more like. Who do these suburban nonentities think they are? And I thought Fulham thought they were it.
Whaaaaaaaaaaat is all this about????? at 10:39:27 Friday August 11 2000
Oh dear, oh dear, oh deary dear! I think I'll go back to work instead!
Anon at 10:22:7 Friday August 11 2000
Wonder what the W stands for? Ive got a good idea.
Anon at 10:21:0 Friday August 11 2000
He should change his name from MartinW to Verbal Diarrhoea.
Don't he go on? at 8:56:56 Friday August 11 2000
????
MartinW at 0:57:22 Friday August 11 2000
On a positive note, it is great to see that NTFC have done a complete U-turn and decided that that reserve team matches will, after all, be
open to the public this season. The decision was made after an agreement was reached to open certain areas of the West Stand for the game, and after the club agreed to requests from many supporters who still wanted to watch reserve team football at Sixfields.
"The club are pleased that this outcome has been reached, and would like to assure supporters that we do listen to their views and try and act on them whenever possible," says the press statement.
Credit where credit is due, that is an unequivocally positive step. Hooray!!!! Who says that comments should not be made?? Democracy does work - but only with proportional representation!!
UP THE BLOODY COBBLERS! WE ARE THE DOGS BOLLOCKS!
Cuevitriol at 0:50:33 Friday August 11 2000
CUE VITRIOL
MartinW at 0:47:7 Friday August 11 2000
Anthony, why should mentioning the fact that the Germans did not welcome Jews (understatement), cause such offence, it happened. And there is nothing wrong in comparing that to the kind of intolerence shown by some on here. Especially from those who say that if you do not live in Northants then your should not have an opinion. Which is why I drew the comparison. The fact is that this nation has been f£$%ed up by the wars. In my view we have become so bloody big headed about winning it that there is too much jingoistic crap surrounding England. The fact is we are the most unpopular nation in Europe. Tourists are hated. They cause trouble, just like in Euro 2000, because they can't hold their beer (because our fast drinking culture is geared to a 11.30am finish) and because we think we are the kings of Europe. That everyone should bow to the English. International matches like Euro 2000 have become the new wars and the English invade at every opportunity. Are we any better than the Germans were? At least Germany has evolved out of what has happened. When I heard the other day how a group of English youths went to a group of Germans and sang (to the tune of Campdown Races): "Two world wars and one world cup, doo dah, doo dah, two world wars...," it just underlined the kind of, yes, fascistic tendancies that have crept into our culture. These were young men, who just get lead like sheep to sing these songs, thinking it's a laugh. Also I hate to count the times I have been to THOSE Med resorts to find the troublemakers are NOT Austrian, NOT Germans, NOT Dutch, but the bloody English. The nation needs a kick up the arse. Otherwise we will continue to have this narrowminded view on Europe and the kind of hooliganism that made me sick. Sorry, it was a bit of a tangent, and yet not.
Oh, and Anon, wonderful, insightful Anon, thanks for saying I'm young. AND that it shows. It's flattering. Say it again, baby. If only you knew how old I REALLY am. And naive! Lovely, keep it coming, I love it.
|MartinW at 0:27:15 Friday August 11 2000
Carl, It does make sense. The reason Atkins left was because of fan pressure. There were elements of the board that were sticking with Atkins for the very reasons you state, in my view, based on all the stuff that has come out. They knew it did not make financial sense to get rid of him. Coz, they would have to pay him anyway, you're right. But that magical fairy dust that is public pressure came to play. Fan pressure, that should read. The fans that wanted Atkins out felt that a new broom would sweep clean. And as we know the board was split. But it came to the point when it made footballing (not financial) sense to part company with Atkins. But Stonhill had always backed Atkins, knowing all about the contract. And when the announcement that Atkins was to go was made, did Stonhill make it? No. It was his deputy. Now that has to speak volumes for the split there was. And the compromise was that Willo would take over, because that made financial sense. There was no great vote of confidence in Willo, remember they had joint management and a big public trial period before giving him the job. And there were other options - but they were expensive.
The upshot is, yes, the club has to be run in a financially prudent way, but sometimes a little thought for the fans is necessary.
ORBITAL Ganja at 21:0:14 Thursday August 10 2000
POSITIVE VIBES, POSITIVE VIBES '3-1 TO TOWN' POSITIVE VIBES, POSITIVE VIBES.
THE OBSERVER at 20:1:36 Thursday August 10 2000
Who put the ball in Watfords net JAMIE!!!!! JAMIE!!!!!! who put the ball in Watfords net JAMIE FORRESTERRRRRRRRRRR, OR alterntively the camptown ladies sing this song doo dah etc etc etc. We'll be singing this at boro this year I know ,,, bogey side they are you know whatsit! doobrey! thingy ! the other side of the NENE (NEN NOT NEEEEEEN NINNY) the only bogey between us and boro will be barry bogey nose fry and i bet he does, fry them that is
THE OBSERVER at 19:47:39 Thursday August 10 2000
I forgot to add my handle to to the last quote ! Im not that anonymous realy
Anon at 19:44:30 Thursday August 10 2000
Iv'e only seen 1 pre-season game ,Watford didnt look that threatening realy for someone straight out of the prem ,and should have been far more organised apart from the system they played ten in the midfield in a circle indicative of the fact they played two number ten's I suppose, It could be said that taylor look's at himself as sparticus or perhaps farticus because just look at the way he run down Bobby Robson in 1990 (ITALY) ! who now on reflection took the best team out of England and could of won that damn trophy ,the most celebrated English manager it could be said, and if Harry Enfield wer'nt so damn popular at the time then Turnip taylor would'nt have kept on saying "you don't want to do it like that you want to do it like this" every bloody game they played then the press haunted Robson could have handed down the torch of a strong structure of English footballer's to a better manager at that level. Anyway I thought we lacked in defence on the night and perhaps it could be said that Taylor is so bloody predictable that he knew we would be playing football like we did , because we showed we had the resolve to break them down, they only won because of the dirty tactics and childlike tantrums , (#9 GET A HAIR CUT YOU PONY TAILED GIT)!!!.Pathetic was Watford. Hail Kevin for though art to be King
Carl at 19:26:56 Thursday August 10 2000
nor me
GREG at 19:26:32 Thursday August 10 2000
i hope im not that fat funny bloke!!
Pickled Judge at 19:3:49 Thursday August 10 2000
3-1 Forrester scores first. 3 cheers for the Board re Reserves.
Hip Hip
Hip Hip
Hip Hip
Hoooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooray!
We are all going to have 2 go now!
britgal at 18:40:4 Thursday August 10 2000
i have my new cobblers shirt (does any1 elses smell of strawberries?), my ticket for Brentford, i have found my lucky maple-leaf earring (will it be so effective now carlo's gone?)... I CAN'T WAIT!!!
Geezer at 18:38:49 Thursday August 10 2000
So e-mail him then, http://www.ntfctrust.co.uk/officers.htm
Stewpot of the MK crew at 18:37:36 Thursday August 10 2000
I have only just discovered this hear guest book and it dissapoints me with the negativity I am continualy reading so lets all get behind the boys. On other issues I think it will be a 1-1 draw with a sammo header from a Frain corner at the away end and a very late equaliser after we take our foot off the pedal and try to run out time. Just read Jonh Knocker Gregorys autobiography only 3 lines about the Cobblers. Good goal by Razor for the dim ones against the Hammers last night. I hope that Brentford havent set the tone by starting the ball rolling with pay per view websites it seems difficult enough to get information out of clubs without having to pay for it. Has anyone checked out supergoals.com there is a chat room for football talk and have had some interesting conversations with a lot of lower league supporters so get along and give the cobblers a mention like I do. What is the address or is there one for the trust. Roll on saturday will I be by the slaphead who tells Ian Hendons rather good looking wife to take H shopping when hes having an off day continually.
nsb at 18:31:50 Thursday August 10 2000
well after whoever itwas had the bright idea of stopping prem teams from playing reserve matches against non prem teams attendances have suffered......... besides which the reserves get hammered each week!
COL at 18:3:8 Thursday August 10 2000
INSIDERSIX Iwas not "attacking" TCMP. I was asking the supporters rep, who is known as TCMP, a few questions that I would like a response from, especially now there are less open forums for us to ask such questions. The present chairman of the trust is so aloof you can never get him to return any calls, give any straight answers, or just ignores you.
Ray at 17:41:43 Thursday August 10 2000
I for one will be making an extra special effort to attend more reserve ganes this coming season. The fact that they are at a regular time helps enormously.
PATTCOBB at 17:2:27 Thursday August 10 2000
HERE IT IS PATTCOBBS PREDICTION FOR SATURDAY...........PISSED BY KICK OFF OH AND 1 - 1 (GABBIADINI)
Mr Pragmatic at 17:0:36 Thursday August 10 2000
No doubt thousands of you complainers will fill the West Stand to see the likes of Barnet Reserves. See you there?!!
Mystic Meg at 16:46:9 Thursday August 10 2000
Mr Ealing....what did they mean by that then?? Are they assuming we are going to kick thier arses!!!!!
And to Carl...I sit in West stand, row F...I can tell you no more than that!!!!
Mystic Meg at 16:45:31 Thursday August 10 2000
Mr Ealing....what did they mean by that then?? Are they assuming we are going to kick thier arses!!!!!
And to Carl...I sit in West stand, row F...I can tell you no more than that!!!!
Ealing Cobbler at 15:39:13 Thursday August 10 2000
overheard 2 Brentford fans in a pub last night saying that Saturday could be a nightmare start for them this season !
Sid<----- Blantant GTA plug! at 15:28:46 Thursday August 10 2000
Guess The Attendance - if anyone wishes to play GTA v. BRENTFORD (H), then mail me on the above address with your guess. Cheers.
Mark at 15:13:8 Thursday August 10 2000
If anyone wants to represent the cobblers in my fantasy football 2nd div league on Yahoo , please go to http://soccer.fantasysports.yahoo.com/premier
and join private league no. 2447 password nationwide.
thanks
M at 15:4:56 Thursday August 10 2000
Can't wait, can't wait. A mere 1 day and 23 hours to go. I can still feel that tingling sensation as we left the Torquay ground in May. Doesn't time fly
Carl at 14:47:55 Thursday August 10 2000
Ooh crike, that were a couple of years ago I think, it was about 6 minutes into the game, I was at home watching on Teletext, was it the Stoke game? What does anyone think Hodges roll will be this year, if he has one at all. I definitely think he will be a usefull assett if used correctly. The bloke has got skill and pace.
SBJ at 14:35:46 Thursday August 10 2000
I think I've tipped it to be a 2-1 win for us, with Gabbiadini the first scorer. Possibly a bit ambitious given that he took 10 games to score after signing for Darlo, but then Darlo didn't have the sterling midfielders and wondrous crossers that we've got. Hopefully that's true anyway. Novelty moment prediction: Welch to save a penalty, and celebrating with the North Stand having done so. Didn't we have the fastest sending-off last season, or was that the one before? A deliberate handball in the 10th minute I think. Perhaps Colin Hill?
Carl at 14:35:27 Thursday August 10 2000
The Goalkeeping situation could turn out to be quite interesting actually. I doubt Sollitt signed to sit on his arse for 9 months, and if he is as good as the Kettering manager stated then it could be him who is in goal. As for Gabbo, he will score, maybe not Saturday, but he most definitely will score. Like I said yesterday I reckon we will win 2 - 1, and am I looking forward to it. Where do you sit Mystic, then I could tell you :-)
Mystic Meg at 14:28:46 Thursday August 10 2000
Now this reserve business has been solved, can we PLEASE talk about Saturdays game!!!!! I want predictions from you all!!! Will Gabbiadini score??? Will Welchy still be so cool in goal?? Will i have the fat funny bloke still sitting behind me???......
Something about money and mouths at 14:17:10 Thursday August 10 2000
I assume that those who were whinging about the reserve situation will now put their money where their mouths are and attend the reserve fixtures. Somehow I doubt that many will make more than the odd game, especially as kick-off is at 2pm. Personally I think that the club should (for 2001/02) charge everyone who attends reserve games, but give a discount to season ticket holders. Perhaps £2/£1.
Carl at 14:13:1 Thursday August 10 2000
It always smelt on a Wednesday as well, the brewery that is
that's that then at 14:0:2 Thursday August 10 2000
Will everyone be as quick to praise the Board now as they were to slag them before? I know they're only giving us what they originally said they would, but it's decent of them to listen even so. Also works out as a way of giving us a we're-all-in-this-together boost before the game.
SBJ at 13:59:9 Thursday August 10 2000
Cardiff Cobbler, that explains the hunted look in my Granddad's eyes every time he goes to the city centre! Caerdydd canolog - how I 'miss' those bilingual signs . . . and the smell of Castle Arcade, next to the Brains Brewery - why can't Carlsberg smell so good when it's being brewed? Cheap foreign rubbish.
Anon at 13:49:43 Thursday August 10 2000
Jack Army, can't you wait until the 6th October?
Cardiff Cobbler at 13:48:50 Thursday August 10 2000
That wasn't an orange, it was the winter ball. They had to call the game off after your grandad ate it. Best tell him not to come back herem they're still looking for him!
Vince at 13:46:59 Thursday August 10 2000
The news on reserve games is a pleasant surprise and it's great to see the club responding to supporters. I wonder how many other clubs would have reacted in the same way? Lets hope that there is a good turnout for reserve games to justify the change of mind
marco at 13:46:58 Thursday August 10 2000
I know Ricardo, he works at sky sports and is a cobblers fan. Good to see the club has relented on the reserve issue. Naive PR to start with releasing the statement without consulting people but at least they listened. Now we can get on with the serious business of saturday. Good to see Billy Turley maknig an arse of himself again in the diamonds-west ham friendly, goals on sky sports this morning
There we go. Problem Solved at 13:27:45 Thursday August 10 2000
Following further discussions and negotiations, Northampton Town Football
Club are pleased to announce that reserve team matches will, after all, be
open to the public this season.
The decision was made after an agreement was reached to open certain areas
of the West Stand for the game, and after the club agreed to requests from
many supporters who still wanted to watch reserve team football at Sixfields.
The club are pleased that this outcome has been reached, and would like to
assure supporters that we do listen to their views and try and act on them
whenever possible. We would like to thank everyone who got in touch with
the club to let us know their opinion on this matter.
The club would also like to appeal to all supporters to get right behind
the team on Saturday, as we begin our Division 2 campaign against Brentford
at Sixfields. Early ticket sales indicate that a gate of over 7,000 is
expected, so we would urge all fans to arrive as early as possible.
Club Secretary
Northampton Town Football Club
SBJ at 13:20:54 Thursday August 10 2000
Some of my family live in Canton; not sure exactly where but King's Castle pub rings a bell. Most of my lot are Tremorfa and Pentwyn, with a couple of the posher ones out in Rhiwbina. None from Splott thankfully. My Granddad stopped watching Cardiff City in the 1930s after someone in the crowd chucked an orange at him; I've promised to take him there if we ever play Cardiff again.
Cardiff Cobbler at 13:9:22 Thursday August 10 2000
JERK ARMY - sloping forehead, webbed feet, far to 'friendly' towards his sister. Nuff said.
My old mans a Cobbler. at 12:35:23 Thursday August 10 2000
O-oh I see the Eegit's back and as confused and bewildered as ever.
And on at 12:32:26 Thursday August 10 2000
Does anyone know Ricardo Piccioni, because he wrote the Cobblers write up on the Sky Sports Div. 2 review
Jack Army at 12:30:11 Thursday August 10 2000
Cardiff Cobbler, now there's a person I'd like to meet this season. Ooops, almost forgot, Cardiff are in Div 3 aren't they?!! Enjoy Hartlepool scum!!
My old mans a Cobbler. at 12:7:3 Thursday August 10 2000
ROARING.
My old mans a Cobbler. at 12:6:15 Thursday August 10 2000
Still 1500 tickets left,tell all your friends to go out and buy tickets,we want 6000+ Cobblers roring the lads on.
We've had a virus named after us, possibly! at 11:52:23 Thursday August 10 2000
Just received a message re new e-mail viruses, but may be a hoax, one called "wobbler" has 'california' in subject line , the other has 'win a holiday' in the subject line, do not open just delete.
Bored housewife..next door neighbour of your regular poster.......Anon at 11:46:36 Thursday August 10 2000
Any of you boys wanna pop round ???
Ariston at 11:45:23 Thursday August 10 2000
ANON ANON ANON ANON ANON
Anon the illiterate one at 11:44:38 Thursday August 10 2000
ooooooooooooooooooooops
Anon`s best buddy......Later at 11:44:2 Thursday August 10 2000
Rhubarb....ruhbabrb......blah......blah
My old mans a Cobbler. at 11:12:53 Thursday August 10 2000
Thanks C.C.
Cardiff Cobbler at 11:4:11 Thursday August 10 2000
I always wondered who ANON was, looks like it's me.
Anon at 11:2:41 Thursday August 10 2000
MOMAC - 'Friends'and 'Bluebirds' Two words not normally found in the same sentence! Frank Rankmore, no idea - I'll see if I can find out. CARL, Yeah Canton can be a bit rough, but they're generally a good humoured hard drinking bunch - 18 pubs in a 1 mile stretch!Passionate about their football, not Rugby thank god. They have actually got quite a lot of time for the Cobblers because of Swansea/Wembley, but I still got refused service in a pub for wearing an England shirt the day we beat the Germans. ALL welsh people support two teams, Wales and whoever is playing the English. There, didn't mention the reserves once.
Anthony at 10:57:8 Thursday August 10 2000
MartinW's flippant remark about Hitler must not be left without comment. Perhaps he should visit the Imperial War Museum where they are currently showing an Holocaust exhibition (if that's the right word), before he makes any more crass statements.
Ray at 10:53:46 Thursday August 10 2000
I think the problem is that most of us are eagerly anticipating a wonderful season starting on Saturday and don't want to tempt fate.
Is there a game on Saturday? at 10:48:34 Thursday August 10 2000
This page is headed Cobblers Comments. That is exactly what most of the recent comments are, COBBLERS. Why dont we move the debate on to Saturday's game, or am I only dreaming that the season starts in two days time.
Carl at 10:45:1 Thursday August 10 2000
I used to live in Cathays, near the Students Union. I heard Canton was a little rough, is that so?
My old mans a Cobbler. at 10:38:28 Thursday August 10 2000
Cardiff Cobbler,our ex player Frank Rankmore runs a pub in Cardiff ,do you know which one? If not ,he is also ex Cardiff,maybe some of your older and more sensible Bluebird friends could tell you.I'd like to get in touch with him.I'd be grateful for any help.
Qwert at 10:21:58 Thursday August 10 2000
GOMEZ If the board have only a little more money than you or me . don't you think it would nice if you could put your money where your mouth is . Every little help's ?
Cardiff Cobbler at 10:19:29 Thursday August 10 2000
CARL. Canton,just round the corner from the Kings Castle pub.Working in the city centre next to the Fab Millenium stadium where we'll all be watching the FA cup final for the next three years and possibly COBBLERS in the play offs!
Qwert at 10:13:8 Thursday August 10 2000
Martin W.Which members of the board think that the fans can't have a say on here ? Only one member of the board is ever on here, and he's a member of the trust.Please deal in specifics .
My old mans a Cobbler. at 10:4:33 Thursday August 10 2000
I've heard a rumour that Gabbiadinis sister is going to play up front for Peterborough this season.
Carl at 10:3:35 Thursday August 10 2000
Cardiff Cobbler, no we are all just jumping on the bandwagon (That was an attempt at humour, and not at all serious by the way) Whereabouts in Cardiff do you live. I spent 3 years there.
Cardiff Cobbler at 9:52:1 Thursday August 10 2000
I really can't believe all this whinging moaning crap about the reserves. I would much prefer some chat about the fact that for the first time in Living memory we come by a striker (bought would be a bit strong) that WE HAVE ACTUALKLY BLOODY HEARD OF, YOU KNOW, WHATS HIS NAME!AND BROKEN THE CLUB TRANSFER RECORD AND BEEN BLOODY WELL PROMOTED AND SOLD LOADS OF SEASON TICKETS. Next you'll be saying that of course we only sold so many season tickets because for some bizarre reason, all of a sudden , for the first time EVER the whole of N'pton has suddenly decided to follow reserve team footy. Yeah right! Why not suggest something sensible to the club like opening, and manning, just one small part of the groung for the couple of hundred that wan't to go.Enough of the reserves! ........SMALL WORLD..Cardiff City have signed Gabbiadinis brother from West Brom..
PATTCOBB at 9:42:22 Thursday August 10 2000
DAVCOBBLER SEE THAT CLOCK AT THE TOP OF THIS PAGE.JUST TAKE 3 HOURS OFF THAT AND WHAT HAVE YOU GOT?MATTYS ROUND.AH THE GLORIOUS 12TH COME ON THE TOWN!!!!!!
Dyl at 9:41:0 Thursday August 10 2000
To "politics" oh dear you've got it wrong my friend. You seem to be confusing seasons. TCMP's criticisms of Atkins were last season (promotion season) not the previous relegation season. You'll recall we had a bad patch at the start of the season during which time TCMP made his comments on this guestbook. Then when we scraped a small winning run together they were printed in the Chron, maximising their newsworthiness by causing controversy. In no way did he contribute to relelgation and you are a fool if you still believe he did. In fact according to your logic, you could argue that his comments were the springboard for promotion. When actually all he was doing ws expressing a personal opinion on this board in the same way the rest of us do. Atkins was sacked (left by mutual consent) because he was past his use-by date. If he had kept producing the goods on the pitch he would still be here (heaven forbid).
My old mans a Cobbler. at 9:37:26 Thursday August 10 2000
Somebody must know how ticket sales are going for saturdays game.Will we hit 7000?You would have thought we would get a full house after the excitement of our four pre-season signings.
Tell Someone Who Cares at 9:10:34 Thursday August 10 2000
Ok so has anyone asked what actually needs to happen for us to watch the Stiffs? I dont think so... it's just another whinge about what you're not getting. If it's that important why not ask what we need to do instead of going off about the ferkin club again.If you really want to see them, ask "how" not why not! If you love the Club it wouldn't matter why just how................
DavCobbler at 9:2:12 Thursday August 10 2000
Morning all.........How do PattCobbs....c ya Saturday mate. Looks the the "divided" element of Cobblers cynisism(ok so I can`t spell it !!!) is about once more. Reserve games apart.....why the FCUK do we always seem to have "factions" within our support ? Why the hell can`t we "ALL" just get together and unite our common cause....The Support of our beloved team !!!. Ona slightly lighter note, Sixfields Tavern mmmmmmmmmmmmmm worth a try me reckons, Matty getting a round in YIPPEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE about friggin` time me thinks !!!!.....Got a couple of days off work........like having a coffee while enjoying the humour of the Big Breakfast when I ain`t at work.........today though ??????? AAAAAAARGGGGGGGGHHHHHHHHHHHH Switch on the box and who is there ????????????? Mr Pooh himself...Fat Baz............ bloody hell......I will be glad to get back to work now !!!!!! UTC.........Up The Cobblers.......FTP......you know the rest...............
Anon at 8:57:45 Thursday August 10 2000
MartinW - you are young and naive and it shows.
Insidersix at 8:45:14 Thursday August 10 2000
I see that "politics" manages to prove the point I was making very easily. An attack on TCMP and he hasnt even posted anything.
Carl at 8:13:9 Thursday August 10 2000
Just one point out of your countless points raised. The one about still having Atkins as Manager and I quote "The board, and talking about the subject, if Barry Stonhill had his way, we would still have had Ian Atkins. Kevin Wilson was an appointment made with finances
(again) very much to the forefront of his mind. In other words, he saved on wages, by appointing Atkins' deputy. It is an appointment tnat succeeded despite Mr
Stonhill. Remember, Atkins departure happened when Stonhill was on holiday. " Now that just makes no sense, because if you meant, like I thought, the first time of reading we saved dosh by appointing KW then that is crap as we are probably still paying IA for his services to Carlisle. However I have just read your statement again, and find it makes very little sense, because if all he was interested in was the saving of the shekels then Atkins would have stayed, because paying someone for a couple of years after they have left makes no sense. Oh and the bit about Stonhill being on holiday, I really hope you don't believe that all the other decision makers thought as he was away they could get a decision through like that, without the Chairmans consent. I think the main problem is I just don't know where you are coming from, and most of your postings just pass me by.
Politics at 7:43:22 Thursday August 10 2000
A politician can never seperate politics from any aspect of their life and TC or whatever hes called is convinced himself and some of u sheep that is possible - baaaa! He got involved in the Atkins debate - and that contributed in part in my opinion to relegation - I dont think u lot know what it is like to get behind a team/manager. Last season the grumbling started about King Kevin mid season, so at what stage will it start this season, half of you dont deserve the fantasy called the Cobblers - I must be ill - but whatever happens I am always 100% behind the team and manager, and as much as is possible behind the board. TC yes where is he, he should have told you sheep what was going on - he could volunteer his services to be a steward at Reserve games.
Insidersix at 2:9:19 Thursday August 10 2000
I gave you all the facts earlier. I cant say I blame TCMP for not posting comments about the situation - every time he does someone turns it into a political statement. His postings on here are purely as supporters representative. If people let him post as that and take them in that light then there would be a lot more of them.
COL at 0:29:0 Thursday August 10 2000
TCMP What is happening? you are the supporters rep! are we being shafted, or is the club relly loosing that much money on reserve team games? if so why has it not been publisised until now? Any true supporter would gladly pay a small charge to watch the stiffs, but it has been a perk of buying a season ticket, we get to watch the stiffs free! Do you remember when Colin Leggett was doing a magnificent job promoting the reserve team matches as a family evening, I for one supported him & put my money where my mouth is sponsoring the balls he gave away at these matches. Is it true Granada are upping the anti & charging exessive amounts for stewarding etc? You should be in the know, and letting the supporters know! Did you as the supporters rep challange this decision? & when will there be another open forum? There is no mention of one on the trust web site!
MartinW at 0:0:47 Thursday August 10 2000
Gomez. I totally agree that the board have to run the club on a sound financial basis. It's got to be run sensibly. We cannot spend money we don't have like Real/Barcelona. Actually, that could be read as sarcasm, which it isn't. I mean it could be seen that I am saying that we should be doing that, you know spending money we don't have. I'm NOT. Okay. Right. My beef is in the PR. The way the fans are treated. Certain members of the board think the fans have no right to say anything about the club. And probably spit blood at some of the stuff on here. But while some may be just full of vitriol without construction, there are enough on here who come up with sensible, argued views and interesting, thought provoked suggestions about how things should be. Aint nothing wrong with that. Lets just have less of the recent nonsense over the reserve games, the press releases of which I will be using in a training session as an example of poor PR.
Ralph at 23:28:54 Wednesday August 9 2000
God help us if we lose a few of the opening games, then it really will get warm on here. I'm off up the cricket, top of the table plays second and the bar's open all day!
Gomez at 23:26:36 Wednesday August 9 2000
I'd just like to say that I enjoy MartinW's contributions to this page and agree with a lot of what he has to say here. But be fair, the board are basically a group of people with little more money than you and I who CARE for this club. They are trying to run the club on a sound financial basis which, although seemingly boring, is in the best interests of all people involved with the club in the long term. Lets face it - if you had the choice of a 3rd division team breaking even financially and a first division team on the verge of bankruptcy, what would you choose? I want success, YES, but not at the expense of the long term survival of the club I was born into and the club I love.
ntb at 23:24:15 Wednesday August 9 2000
MartinW, that is a seriously sick comment.
MartinW at 23:14:47 Wednesday August 9 2000
The Germans once said the Jews were not welcome in their country. Seems some people have the same attidude about football clubs.
My old mans a Cobbler. at 23:14:7 Wednesday August 9 2000
Remember,Kevin Wilson woked wonders with loan signings last season,he can always strengthen the squad this way.Of course he will need to generate cash,if we could maybe average 7000 at home I'm sure this would give him room to manoeuvre[let the visiting fans have 1300 tickets every time ,I don't care as long as the cash is coming in] Any more predictions for Saturday.
log at 23:0:48 Wednesday August 9 2000
MartinW. This ia a LOCAL club for LOCAL people. We dont want any trouble here!
Rob at 22:46:9 Wednesday August 9 2000
talking of reserves, and youth teams, thought i'd say well done to the boys on drawing 1-1 today agaist west brom today, west brom had 6 first team'ers out, so i think the boys did well.
ntb (anon) at 22:35:55 Wednesday August 9 2000
MartinW, I agree with you about the reserves fiasco. I'm a season ticket holder and have never, nor likely, to go to a reserve game But I respect Ralph, Big Roy and Ray's anger at being denied their chance to see the games. I also think it's a mistake not to have some sort of crowd to separate it from training games. For example, I'm sure you know many up and coming strikers can score at will on the training ground, but in front of a crowd they lose their bottle. They made a big mistake. But there is another issue here. You seem to regard NTFC as some kind of conglomerate out to make money at all costs. I know that all the directors are die hard Cobblers fans, including Barry Stonhill. The only difference from the rest off us is they have a bit of cash and have chosen to put it into The Cobblers, instead of an offshore pension fund, or a yacht in Marbella. And good for them. You must know the kudos for being director of a second division football team (let alone a third) is not worth the money involved. You dont live in Northants, and I dont think you ever have, and when you slag off the board you slag off the club.
MartinW at 22:30:51 Wednesday August 9 2000
_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
That's the line under which I will stop bleating on about reserve team matches, coz they'll change their mind (hopefully.
Let's look forward tentatively to Brentford on Saturday and a great opportunity to get off to a great start. It could be tougher. Let's hope our ageing/experience defence stand firm and that our front two spark.
COME ON YOU COBBLERS.
And let's hope the original Cobblestones is played as the players come out.
MartinW at 22:24:48 Wednesday August 9 2000
ntb. For the record I "slagged off" (criticised) after Barry Stonhill said the following after we had been promoted: "I think it will be difficult to come to an arrangement because the player has three years of his contract at Utrecht left to run. They are likely to demand a considerable fee and Jamie joined them on a Bosman free from Scunthorpe last summer, so he is currently on a fantastic deal.
Our chances of getting him are fifty-fifty.
When we got relegated, I predicted a shortfall of £400,000 but that turned out to be nearer £600,000 because of various factors already publicised. Promotion should see us recoup £400,000 but as always we will need to keep an eye on our wage bill. I would imagine that if we signed Jamie Forrester, there would be little room for manouevre in terms of further signings."............. I said then, that that was like preparation for a big disappointment, especially as it was his first words after we were promoted. And I was not the only one. But Kevin Wilson (thank God for him) then went on record to put an upbeat spin on it promising that there would be signings. And that's all that was needed. And he was a man of his word. And that is why I'm looking forward to the new season. The price we are paying for these signings is a depleted squad. And that's a price that may or may not pay off. Of course, I know that lack of dosh is a major factor with a club like ours. But don't throw it in the faces of fans while they are celebrating promotion. It's depressing.
MartinW at 22:15:25 Wednesday August 9 2000
No. No. I'm a big Wilson fan. I just think certain elements on the board think money first before anything else. And hopefully after the latest episode, they might just think before making decisions like banning season ticket holders from Sixfields reserve games. Here's a constructive suggestion, to allow fans to continue to go to reserve games. Charge them a small fee, say £1. Most will put their hands into their pockets for that. But no, they just say everything is behind closed doors, immediately losing goodwill. Because many will just think that the board waited till the season tickets were sold before deciding that one of the perks of having the ticket was taken off them. God if our business operated that way, we would be in trouble. Maybe it does. Oh God. It's a matter of principal now, season ticket holders SHOULD be allowed to see reserve matches free or have a partial refund on the money they have paid out. Because some of us bought these tickets knowing it would allow us to get to see those reserve games. I agree, the board get a hiding to nothing, for the job they do. But there has been a number of times when you would think common sense would have prevailed in the last couple of years. Sure people make mistakes, but whose admitting them, it's certainly not being conceded on the press releases, which are, quite frankly, a joke.
John at 22:8:40 Wednesday August 9 2000
FAO Cardiff Cobbler... We have more to worry about than what silly song we run out to. Blobby wants the Banana Boat Song.
To all you Cobblers out there in Cobbler (sorry Diana) Land remember the film Trading Places... it's on re-release and at Sixfields this season!
ntb at 22:7:46 Wednesday August 9 2000
While I'm here, MartinW I remember you slagging off the board saying they wouldn't have the bottle to sign Jamie Forrester, remember?
Not the board at 21:50:2 Wednesday August 9 2000
MartinW, take it easy, of course I'm not the board. But I'm no less anonymous than you are.It's only banter supporting the club I love (aaaaah). So anyway, your last message suggests appointing Kevin Wilson was a financial move, and not in the interest of the club. What happened to your Two Kevs Wonderland? Are you simply slagging off the board for whatever they do. Is it an envy thing?
MartinW at 21:35:52 Wednesday August 9 2000
The board, and talking about the subject, if Barry Stonhill had his way, we would still have had Ian Atkins. Kevin Wilson was an appointment made with finances (again) very much to the forefront of his mind. In other words, he saved on wages, by appointing Atkins' deputy. It is an appointment tnat succeeded despite Mr Stonhill.
Remember, Atkins departure happened when Stonhill was on holiday.
Middleton Cobbler at 21:34:22 Wednesday August 9 2000
According to 1 of Brentford's Web sites, they have sold their entire allocation of 900 Tickets for Saturday's game.
MartinW at 21:31:44 Wednesday August 9 2000
Hold on a minute. You were the one getting personal. And at that I'll sign off, coz it is bound to go headlong into a load of vitriol instead of level headed comments about Northampton Town. And don't take that as an attack on you, the board, it's not. I think you are ace. You are probably a fine Cobblers fans with plenty of wit. But I can't say for sure, coz I don't know you. I don't know your name. You are anonymous. So if you have something to say about the subject, I'll be interested to have an exchange of views.
The board at 21:26:9 Wednesday August 9 2000
Well, he managed to appoint Kevin Wilson, what's your problem?
MartinW at 21:22:34 Wednesday August 9 2000
The board. Okay, let's see how well Barry Stonhill does managing the team.
The board at 21:19:47 Wednesday August 9 2000
MartinW if it weren't was us you'd be going to Conference games
Anon at 21:17:24 Wednesday August 9 2000
or maybe enemas?
ORBITAL Ganja at 21:15:37 Wednesday August 9 2000
2 days to the start of the end of the beginning of the end of the world as we know it!
MartinW at 21:13:12 Wednesday August 9 2000
The board. With fans like you we won't be going to reserve games.
The board at 21:7:6 Wednesday August 9 2000
MartinW, with fans like you who needs enemies?
To Cardiff Cobbler at 20:57:52 Wednesday August 9 2000
A man after my heart must have been there with you I rember it all!
MartinW at 20:47:18 Wednesday August 9 2000
Hello. It's the first game on Saturday against Brentford. Excited? I have foreign substances in my pants, dear boy!
COOOOOOOOOOOME OOOOOOOOOON!
My rational mind is scared about our lousy pre-season form, despite the fact that 'a child's view' believes that pre-season games don't matter.
Losing is not a good habit to have.
I have always had a worry about our defence. And I would have felt happier with a little bit of extra strength there.
We'll see what happens.
But, hey, fingers crossed, we stay up this season. Let's be realistic.
Anon at 20:43:13 Wednesday August 9 2000
No!
Qwert at 18:58:33 Wednesday August 9 2000
Glad Woodman's not coming on sat.Don't forget he had a go at everyone before he left. Sulked about not getting a game ( we all know he should have played instead of Turly }, but that's not the point. Had a go at the board about money he thought he was owed.He should have rolled his sleeves up and fought for his place back, acted like spoilt child if you ask me.
Phil Baron at 18:18:53 Wednesday August 9 2000
Woody will not be there on Saurday as he has been farmed out to Southend!!!
Glenville DONNEGAL at 17:10:20 Wednesday August 9 2000
Get my name right if you're going to slag me off P. Anyway I wozn't as bad as Brian Munddee
pattcobbs secretary at 17:7:54 Wednesday August 9 2000
i do wish this boy could spell doegal should read doNegal and p should read PATTCOBB kayo?
P at 17:5:16 Wednesday August 9 2000
Just flicking back over last nights postings and noticed Andy's comments about the celebrity match from 25 years ago and Elton John's exploits as crap footballer extrordinaire.By far the worst display of football I have ever seen , was by James Hunt (no not the poular all purpose NTFC midfielder, but the upper class late racing driver)James was taking part in the late lamented BBC Superstars competition.One of the events was to dribble around some flags and fire a shot at a well known goalkeeper, this was to be done 3 times,quickest time winning.Well James proceeded to give just about the worst display of eye,feet,ball co-ordination that I have ever seen( yes folks EVEN WORSE THAN GLENVILLE DOEGAL!), he crashed into flags , let the ballrun 10-15 yards away from him and had to retreive it.And as for his shots at goal well there were four air shots before he finally connected and sent a seering shot precisely 6 yards away from him.I think however he did eventually complete the course , but the BBC only had time to show one of James' runs as they only had the rights for one serious,Is it true Clive Walker tried to sign James in the late seventies?I know its not strictly cobblers ,but every time I see a crap player both NTFC-not that common now thankfully-and opponents,I often think to my self"Well at least he might be a good racing driver and still the best of Murray Walker's many sidekicks.
Cardiff Cobbler at 16:49:35 Wednesday August 9 2000
D'you know I went through a period of about 15 years without missing 1 single home game, not one, and loads of away ones too including all the crap sherpa van cup games etc.I got soaked on the cricket side countless times (God knows why I stood there), had my head kicked in in the Hotel end by a Portsmouth fan, when they 'took it'. Had my scarf knicked by Doncaster fans on my way home, Was standing in a pub in Southend before the 4-4 FA cup tie, (what a game), when a bloody police horse came in!for a pint I think. Been on the pitch twice. First time when we got promoted at home against Crewe I think, (Richard Hill's last game?) and the other time when I'd been to see the Ruts at the cricket pavillion and then had a quick kick about on the way home, scored a cracking goal, pissed as a fart. Living down here I don't get to see the MIGHTY COBBLERS that much, but you just can't get them out of your system. I can't bloody wait until Saturday..........Coincedentally Cardiff, with new owner Sam the man and Manager Bobby Gould are also having a debate about which song to run out to! Small world, but who gives a toss.
PATTCOBB at 16:38:55 Wednesday August 9 2000
So RON NOADES( MILDLY SILLY NAME WHEN YOU THINK ABOUT IT ISN'T IT)IS BORED WITH LOWER LEAGUE FOOTBALL.STILL WHEN YOU THINK OF ALL THE HUGE CLUBS HE'S BEEN INVOLVED HE IS OBVIOUSLY A MAN WHOSE ENORMOUS TALENT AS A CHAIRMAN IS WASTED ON "SMALL TIME CLUBS" LIKE BRENTFORD AND CRYSTAL PALACE I MEAN LOOK AT ALL THE SUCCESS PALACE HAD WITH THE GREAT MAN AT THE HELM...........
Rodney Marshall(Moaning Cobbler) at 16:14:18 Wednesday August 9 2000
Ron Noades this week said that he was bored with lower division football and visiting crappy grounds. He described this week's first match as a trip to "bloody Northampton Town". Let's stuff those words in the back of the Bees' net on Saturday!!!!
Ray at 16:11:13 Wednesday August 9 2000
You're right - I spoke too soon.
brutus the barber beefcake at 15:4:42 Wednesday August 9 2000
OI FEET OFF SEATS !!!!!!!!! ANY TROUBLE THIS YEAR AND YOU LOT ARE OOOOOUUUUUUUTTTT!!!!!!!!!NO SINNGING NO CHANTING NO PUTTING AWAY KEEPERS OFF NO HAVING A GO AT PLAYERS NO GOING TO THE TOIET BEFORE HALF TIME NO LOOKING AT ME IN A FUNNY WAY but racsism thats okay OI FEET OFF SEATS YOU LOT !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
ET TU BRUTUS at 14:52:33 Wednesday August 9 2000
I think you are a tit, and get your fecking hair cut you knobber
brutus the barber beefcake at 14:25:29 Wednesday August 9 2000
OI FEET OFF SEATS YOU FAN SCUM
Loyal Cobblers Fan!!! at 13:46:15 Wednesday August 9 2000
NOW MANY OF YOU WILL SAY THERES MORE IMPORTANT THINGS TO TALK ABOUT SUCH AS THE RESERVE TEAMS GAMES AND THE SEASON ON SATURDAY.......BUT DOES ANYONE KNOW WHAT MUSIC THE TOWN WILL BE WALKING OUT TO. REALLYAS LONG AS IT'S NOT THE COBBLESTONE I REALLY COULDN'T CARE LESS IT WOULDJUST BE NICE TO KNOW YOU'NO.
OH GIVE ME A........... at 13:41:39 Wednesday August 9 2000
C
Anon at 13:41:16 Wednesday August 9 2000
O
Anon at 13:41:3 Wednesday August 9 2000
B
Anon at 13:40:51 Wednesday August 9 2000
B
Anon at 13:40:34 Wednesday August 9 2000
L
Anon at 13:40:13 Wednesday August 9 2000
E
Anon at 13:40:1 Wednesday August 9 2000
R
Anon at 13:39:49 Wednesday August 9 2000
S
Danny at 13:38:24 Wednesday August 9 2000
Carl, If Forrester is fit, lets go for 4-1 Forrester (2) Gabbers and Savage? Be like the Bury game a couple of years ago..... ahhh memories... Shhhh, I'm reminiscing
My old mans a Cobbler. at 13:12:34 Wednesday August 9 2000
Anyone know how the ticket sales are going?Will we get a full house?Are brentford getting 990 tickets or 1300?
Carl at 13:9:47 Wednesday August 9 2000
I think we will win 2 - 1 with Jamie Forrester getting both, if fit, otherwise Gabbiadini will score one and Savage the other.
My old mans a Cobbler. at 13:1:55 Wednesday August 9 2000
My prediction for Saturday,Northampton 1-1 Brentford.MATCH REPORT,For the first half hour Northampton,apart from the odd flashes of individual skill,will look as if they have only been playing together for the last few days.Brentford will take the lead around 15/20 minutes into the game with a well worked goal,nothing too fancy,showing our defence to be a little static and square.Town will then pick their game up a little and Forrester will equalize in first half injury time.There will be no further goals as both teams will cancel each other out in the second half.We will go home reasonably happy with a point from our first game back in Div2 realising that if we are to struggle to control the game[and lets face it Brentford will struggle this season] and the players are not gelling as a unit then we are in for a difficult but very enjoyable season.
As for the season as a whole I think we will take a few games to get going,the Gabbi and Forrester partnership will begin to gel after about 7/8 games so giving the more flair players as well as defence more confidence.We will struggle in patches but after last seasons shrewd loanee signings by Kevin Wilson,I expect him to do the same during this season helping us to safety and a final position around 17th place somewhere.I think a lot depends on how the players react to Chris Hargreaves early on he seems to be an intelligent flair player that could really open up defences for us but this will only bare fruit for us if the rest of the lads are on his wave length.
Should my prediction for Saturdays game be correct,then at 7p.m. sharp I shall be announcing that evenings winning lottery numbers on this board.Mind you I have never predicted anything correctly in my life.Lets hope I’m totally wrong and we win 4-2.Now shoot me down with your predictions.COME ON YOU MIGHTY CLARET AND WHITES.
Danny at 12:48:32 Wednesday August 9 2000
Is it still only wednesday? bloody hell....... this week is almost as slow as the week leading up to Torquay away. Ahhhhh memories, shhhh I'm reminiscing.
Anon at 12:43:43 Wednesday August 9 2000
Paticobb - do you mean the one that bears a striking resemblance to former WWF wrestler Brutus the Barber Beefcake?
inside info at 12:15:49 Wednesday August 9 2000
sorry howard as sub in place of thompson still a small squad though
howard s. at 12:14:57 Wednesday August 9 2000
hey what about me?????????
inside info at 12:14:12 Wednesday August 9 2000
welch hendon frain sampson green hope savage hunt spedding gabbiadini forrester subs hargreaves hughes hodge thomson sollitt.dont know whether frain/spedding in midfield yet.apart from morrow no more 1st teamers are fit quite a small squad this season isn'tit. pray there are no injuries!!!!!!!!!!!
Pickled Judge at 11:6:58 Wednesday August 9 2000
Anglia TV teletext preview says we have an ageing defence! Shouldn't that read experienced?!
pattcobbs secretary at 10:50:34 Wednesday August 9 2000
Oh god somebody help PATTCOBBS gone hyterical roll on Saturday
PATTCOBB at 10:47:35 Wednesday August 9 2000
And so the countdown continues,just over 3 days to go.AH the anticipation,the excitement,the nerves....Some of the many questions will soon be answered.WILL GABBIADINI ACTUALLY SCORE,WILL WE EVER MAKE UP A DECENT CHANT FOR HIM,WHAT TUNE WILL WE RUN OUT TO,WHO WILL I BE SITTING NEXT TO FOR 9 MONTHS, WILL SIXFIELDS TAVERN COME UP WITH THE GOODS AS YHIS YEARS PUB,WILL ROB MARSHALL BE FAT OR THIN THIS SEASON,WILL ALL OUR FAVOURITE FANS ATTEND GAMES-WIGGY,PORK PIE,POTATO NOSE,THE NORTHAMPTON DINGLES,BROOON,THE BEE GEES - OLD FRIENDS ALL OF THEM.12 OCLOCK ON THE 12TH MATTY IS NOW 18 YEARS OLD, A BIG MOMENT ,HIS 1ST OFFICIAL COBBLERS ROUND NO I CAN HARDLY WAIT...........
Dyl at 10:38:21 Wednesday August 9 2000
I have to say that when I saw an earlier announcement that all reserve games were to be played at 2pm, I'd already resigned myself to seeing no reserve games this year. Amidst all the whinging over season ticket holders' perks I think people have lost sight of a key test that all Cobblers fans should be able to agree with: DOES THIS DECISION DO ANYTHING TO STRENGTHEN THE 1ST TEAM? If in any way, playing behind closed doors strengthens the team (helping towards buying a new player, being able to stay overnight before a long distance away game) then surely it is the right thing for the club. I agree that the club may not have handled this in the best way possible, but I think some people are looking for sticks to beat the club with. Had the club made this announcement before season tickets went on sale then I doubt there would have been anyone who would have refused to renew because of it. So I agree with Vince, let's concentrate on supporting the 1st team, let Kev manage and let the Board juggle the limited finances they have. We've got a good squad, a new season and a new division to look forward to. If we can't be positive now, then there's no hope!
PATTCOBB at 10:36:49 Wednesday August 9 2000
Just a last thought on the reserve team debate.How much do the stewards "earn!"per match.All i have seen a steward do-it's usually the ugly one with basil Brush on top of his head,red face you know him- is admonish people for the seemingly hangable offence of having one's feet on the seat in front!!!!!!
Vince at 9:45:52 Wednesday August 9 2000
It's very easy to criticise the club for the decision to play reserve games behind close doors and although the way the announcement was made was not that clever you can't blame the board for trying to save in excess of £10,000 - a fair proportion of the amount put into the club each year by the Trust.The club still have to operate a very tight budget and much as I'll miss going to reserve games I'd rather the money saved helped out if we needed a loan signing etc. Since the premiership clubs formed their own reserve league the gates at reseve games have reduced and at times it seemed the ratio of stewards and official to supporters was very high. It would be good if the reserve games could be spread around the county although that would probably mean an end to free admission to reserve games for season ticket holders. As reserve games don't start until October drop the subject for now and concentrate on what really counts - League games.
Anon at 8:59:27 Wednesday August 9 2000
Let's get on now with what matters - the 1st team
Carl at 8:54:58 Wednesday August 9 2000
Mystic apparently it isn't too bad. I really do think we should be focusing our attention to Saturday as we have a fairly important game of football to go and watch. It should be fun as well don't you think. All the Pre season anticipation finally over, all the fun ready to start again for the next 9 months, all those miles to be travelled, all the highs, all the lows, all the pies and pasties, all the Guinness. UP THE COBBLERS!!!!!
Tinker at 8:41:16 Wednesday August 9 2000
Everyone assumes to think the reserves issue was made by the board.With a board meeting not due till the end of the month, me think's someone might have jumped the gun ?
Mystic Meg at 8:20:15 Wednesday August 9 2000
All this talk about reserve team football...You lot seem to have over-looked the fact that in yesterdays Chronic, it reported that JAMIE FORRESTER IS INJURED!!!!!!!!!
Correction at 8:4:4 Wednesday August 9 2000
This correction is to correct an incorrect correction made incorrectly.
Chill out, people at 7:39:56 Wednesday August 9 2000
At least the Directors have now responded to the comments about the reserve team games; however they may go about things they do show willing to consider the fans as soon as we make a fuss. OK they shouldn't have caused the fuss in the first place, but hey everyone makes mistakes. Why not keep shtum and wait for their next statement rather than picking up on the grammar in their press releases or accusing them of not being fans even though they put their own money and time into the club?
MartinW at 6:36:35 Wednesday August 9 2000
CLUB STATEMENT 7/8/00: "Northampton Town Football Club have taken the decision to play all home reserve team matches behind closed doors this season. This decision has been reached after a great deal of thought by the club and it was eventually felt that the club could not continue to operate reserve team football in front of crowds at Sixfields while running up large losses..............................
CLUB STATEMENT 8/8/00:"The club had indicated yesterday that
reserve matches would be played behind closed doors, and a final decision will be made once negotiations to try and reduce costs are concluded. The club would like to assure fans that no firm decision has yet been taken, and acknowledge that some supporters would be disappointed to miss out on reserve team football."
Expect a press release today which says: "The club yesterday indicated that a decision would be made over whether reserve team matches would be held behind closed doors at a future meeting of the board and that no final decision over the matter had been made. In fact we have not yet decided not to take the final decision at that board meeting. It is not yet decided whether the directors can decide to make that decision. It is appreciated that the directors would be disappointed to miss out on the decision making. After a great deal of thought, it was decided to refer the matter to the Beavis and Butthead firm of financial consultants. Oh and we're scrapping Saturday football to play on Friday nights. And the song that shall be played on match days at the start of games will be The Birdie Song by The Tweets. The decision was taken after a fans poll showed the overwhelmingly popular choice was the original Fields of Green."
Oooops
Andy at 22:25:20 Tuesday August 8 2000
Here's one for you nostalgia folks. Does anyone remember a game about 20 something years ago on a Sunday afternoon at the County Ground? It was as I remember football managers v an all star team. The promotion implied Rod Stewart would be playing, which guaranteed a crowd, but he didn't show; but such 'stars' as Bill Oddie, Rod Hull (I think) and the best of all, Elton John turned up. Poor old Elton has to be the worst footballer ever to play at The County Ground. I seem to remember he was awarded a contrived penalty and his kick barely reached the goal line, and to compound his misery he had to take it again, just think Monty Burns and you get the idea. I think Ron Saunders, Ron Atkinson and possibly John Sillet starred for the managers, and the result was 3-3. If anyone can fill in the gaps I would be grateful
MartinW at 21:59:43 Tuesday August 8 2000
Britgirl, your spot on. That's the thing that galls the most. People buy the seasont tickets not just for their seat at home games but the other perks as well. If you take away those perks afterwards, it makes the season ticket worth less. And all season ticket holders should demand a reduction by way of protest.
I have every sympathy with those that say the club don't seem to care about the fans. But I would say that we are talking about those that hold the purse strings, that make the decisions. There is no doubt the players and Kevin Wilson don't have a say in this. And if they knew about it they would not be in favour.
The upness about Sixfields solely comes from the footballing side of our club. If you look back the first thing that Barry Stonhill publicly said after we got promotion was mostly about how difficult it was going to be to get Jamie Forrester and complaining about how they have no money and the squad would have to be cut... Which is all very well but we had just got promoted and, well, it was bad PR. And it was Kevin Wilson who had to make a statement to put the positives on that. In that he had his mind on players and promised there would be knew blood. He lived up to his promise.
But there are loads of examples where fans have taken second place to the dictats of those in the boardroom. It eas especially shown in the amount of criticism levelled by certain directors at those fans who felt Atkins should go, the "internet nerds" jib and the undermining of the Trust, among other things. And it really should not be like that. We should all be fighting together. The directors should remember without the fans, there would be even less money. Nobody wants to have a go at the decision makers at the club. The directors must have the good of the club at heart. But when they make a move like this, what can you say. And can I ask a serious question. How many of the directors are genuine fans? It's not a rhetorical one.
Steven Scott at 21:32:58 Tuesday August 8 2000
Crap website and crap team C'mon u boro
TRB Mark at 21:25:33 Tuesday August 8 2000
Ah, but Claret through the veins is married to a Col U supporter so I suspect he is being ordered to go.
ORBITAL Ganja at 21:20:11 Tuesday August 8 2000
The tune is OD404 - 9 Bar. HAHA. I wish! Hopefully it won't be anything with an acid/techno/trance/beats flavour or you will just see a crazed nutter invading the pitch then doing some hard dancing to it, before I'm escorted away.
ORBITAL Ganja at 21:14:41 Tuesday August 8 2000
And the club do a u-turn on the reserves, if they were un-sure in the first place why did they announce it!
Ian at 21:13:41 Tuesday August 8 2000
Have they announced what tune we will run out to at home games yet? I don't remember seeing any official announcement.
Carl at 20:24:40 Tuesday August 8 2000
Bloody good point Anon
Luton Cobbler at 20:21:52 Tuesday August 8 2000
No Woody on Saturday. He's gone to Southend on a months loan today with a view to permanent move.
Anon at 20:15:26 Tuesday August 8 2000
Up the town, lets get stuck into the Brentford Bastards on Satarday
Northampton Gas at 19:39:18 Tuesday August 8 2000
When is a decision , not a decision? The circular was issued by the club, to those that needed to know.*s* OK not wishing to stir up this debate, you should have The Gas problems. We have nine fit players, including two goalkeepers, and according to the manager "very low moral". Am I downhearted, YOU BET I AM. Still all the best to The Cobblers until 14th October, yes that also comes from the PA announcer as well *g*
britgal at 19:34:24 Tuesday August 8 2000
i may be totally wrong here, but isn't one of the perks of the season ticket a free entry into the reserve games? So if that didn't happen, the season tickets might not be worth as much. So money is paid by the season ticket holders towards the reserves. So when they worked out the money lost in the reserve games, did they include the money from the season tickets?
Donna at 19:33:6 Tuesday August 8 2000
CARL
Please ring me on my mobile.
Ray at 18:52:15 Tuesday August 8 2000
Well - what a wonderful suggestion Mr Financial Director. Following that line of arguement, why not disband Northampton Town altogther, we'll save 100s of thousands of pounds in wages etc, the Directors wouldnt have to dig into their pockets, we could all save a fortune in tickets and pollution would be instantly cut as there wouldnt be any away travel either. You know it makes sense, financially and environmentally.
Carl at 18:40:22 Tuesday August 8 2000
I think you can get the games all over Europe, don't think it is 100% legal in the eyes of BSkYB, but they have enough dosh for you not to be too worried. As for a pub in Torremilinos, no problem, English Bars aplenty I would imagine.
Eastander at 18:10:52 Tuesday August 8 2000
I shall be on holday and will miss the Fulham game, does anyone know
if its available on satellite abroad (Spain) if so does anyone know a bar near Torremolinos, Benalmadena, Marbella area where i can see it
Luton Cobbler at 18:2:36 Tuesday August 8 2000
So when is a decision not a decision then? The original statement says that a decision HAS BEEN made not to play reserve team football, whilst todays statement says that no decision has been made. Please don't take us for mugs, why not just say that you are reconsidering due to public pressure.
The people have spoken at 15:58:4 Tuesday August 8 2000
Northampton Town’s Board of Directors will discuss the issue of reserve
team football further at their next Board meeting later this month.
The costs of staging reserve matches are considerable and disproportionate
to the number of people attending, most of whom, being season ticket
holders, are admitted free of charge. The club had indicated yesterday that
reserve matches would be played behind closed doors, and a final decision
will be made once negotiations to try and reduce costs are concluded.
The club would like to assure fans that no firm decision has yet been
taken, and acknowledge that some supporters would be disappointed to miss
out on reserve team football, especially as this season a number of first
team matches will sell out, and this could provide young supporters the
opportunity to see the Cobblers players.
The club’s scheduled first home reserve match of the season is not until
October 3rd, and an announcement will be made by that time.
The Finance Director at 15:41:33 Tuesday August 8 2000
We would save even more if we didn't bother playing reserve matches.
Vegas Cobbler at 14:48:11 Tuesday August 8 2000
Sadly shortly to become Northall, Bucks Cobbler....doesn't quite have the same image. However, it appears that we have drawn high spending Fulham in the Littlewoods cup. Blast from the past.....See you all at Sixfields once the unpacking is completed. Pray for hot weather for me please to ease the acclimatisation process!!
InsiderSix at 14:40:24 Tuesday August 8 2000
The real story: The reserve games now have to be played in the afternoon - league directive: The management at Sixfields have greatly increased their charges to the Cobblers even though their overheads have been reduced. Why should the Club be ripped off or let themselves be screwed? The more protests the better - send email to the Club to give them some weapons to work with. NOW!!! before you forget!!
Anon at 13:42:1 Tuesday August 8 2000
CLARET THROUGH THE VEINS - Any self respecting CTTV's would put the fixtures in to their diaries before booking holidays or replying to wedding invites.
Trapper at 13:39:31 Tuesday August 8 2000
Too many of you appear to dismiss reserve matches as 'it's only the reserves' as if the football on offer was such an inferior product. It's just not the case and on many occasions the games I have seen have been open, end-to-end and entertaining. Some of the comments posted here denegrating reserve football matches have been made by those who have been creaming themselves over pre-season friendlies, must get to Milton Keynes, how do we get to Stevenage etc. I would suggest that the ratio of players with first team experience in the reserves is no different to that of the pre-season friendlies. I'd like to suggest that you get along and support the reserve games and see for yourselves but . . .
God, Even the Chron knew that!!!!! at 13:37:37 Tuesday August 8 2000
.
I never knew about this at 12:56:33 Tuesday August 8 2000
TAYLOR BOOST FOR COBBLERS
FORMER England boss Graham Taylor has handed the Cobblers and Kevin Wilson a massive boost with the new season just a few days away.
Taylor was in town on Wednesday night to see his Watford side beat the Cobblers 2-1 in a lively pre-season friendly at Sixfields.
And after the game he singled out Town boss Wilson for special praise, as well as declaring that the Cobblers are more than good enough to hold their own
in division two this term.
“I think Kevin Wilson has done extremely well to lead the club into this position,” said Taylor.
“I watched last season and saw how he came in and turned things round here, and there’s no reason to believe why they can’t really establish themselves in
division two this time.”
Wilson has clearly impressed Taylor, who also admitted he is a big fan of the Sixfields Stadium.
“I think the whole club, in terms of how this stadium has been developed, is a prime example of how to do things for clubs this size,” he said. “I think it’s a
very good set up. I enjoy coming to Sixfields and I enjoy the area.
“I also think that in Kevin Wilson Nothampton have a young manager who has already been successful, is eager to take the club forward and I think that
providing
everyone supports one another at a club this size, you’ve always got a chance.”
But Taylor, who guided Watford from division two to the Premiership before last season’s relegation back to division one, did have a few words of warning
for anyone at Sixfields setting their sights a little too high.
“I always think it’s a bit premature to start talking about going through divisions, and of course it can be done.
“But I think the next thing to progress the club is to make sure they are well established, there’s a good structure and there’s a good team spirit.
“And the display by Northampton against us showed me that Kevin Wilson is doing all of those things.”
Claret through the veins.... at 12:53:41 Tuesday August 8 2000
I am a sesaon ticket holder who is stressed!
I've got 3 weddings in August....Brentford (h), Wycombe (a), and Reading (h)!!
My seat is up in the top of the West Stand near the south Stand. Does anyone want to by them...face value (cheaper than on the day!).
Also, I'm on holiday in November...Bournemouth and Swindon tickets up for sale too. I will ask questions about your locality as I don't want away fans where I sit...so please GENUINE COBBLERS ONLY PLEASE.
Danny at 12:27:1 Tuesday August 8 2000
I've only ever been to 3 reserve games - Mansfield (at the County Ground!!!! I was on work experience) Cambridge on a sunday at Sixfields to see what the hub-bub about reserve games was (and it was awful) and a game earlier in the year, but it was postponed that same day. I met Northampton Gas that day too. I do think its bad PR from NTFC, as there are people that go to quite a few. I was only going to the postponed one as I had a week off work, was bored and my 12 year old Cousin was on school holidays. As an alternative, you could watch it from the top of the hill, though unless Jeema turns up with his brolly, you could get wet on rainy days.
The Shropshire Cobbler at 12:23:43 Tuesday August 8 2000
Well, just booked the tickets by phone for me & the little woman for Saturday. Looking forward to this season with more excitement than for many years. UP THE COBBLERS!
Dyl at 12:17:26 Tuesday August 8 2000
Please don't tempt fate ray
Ray at 12:3:25 Tuesday August 8 2000
Its one way of keeping the kids out :-) Surprised we haven't had the usual "we're on holiday and bored" crowd.
dyl at 11:35:51 Tuesday August 8 2000
The addy is: www.brentfordfc.co.uk
TRCDU at 11:22:33 Tuesday August 8 2000
Only if you get in for free Ray!, how many people are going to whinge about not getting in to Reserve games if they have to pay 5 quid a pop ?......(non season ticket holder)
Ray at 11:15:12 Tuesday August 8 2000
Whats the address dyl? Should I charge £25 to be able to post to Cobblers Comments? I could retire next week :-)
dyl at 11:9:19 Tuesday August 8 2000
I've just been to the new official Brentford website. You need to register as a member to access any info, and to get added services you have to pay 25 quid. The one feature that I was able to access was 'Red World' which is a map detailing where Brentford fans come from around the globe. So far their fan base totals a marvellous 3 uk based fans!
Anon at 11:2:50 Tuesday August 8 2000
When it comes down to it the club really dont give a toss about the fans
WSJ at 8:24:5 Tuesday August 8 2000
Part of the problem about reserve team games has been the creation by the Premiership of their own 2nd team league, another example of "we don't give a damn" about the Nationwide League and the promotion of football at the lesser levels. So attractive reserve games against the likes of Arsenal, Chelsea, Spurs and West Ham are a thing of the past as are the decent gates that have occasionally, but in truth only occasionally, gone with such games. I have never been to a reserve team game and I suspect that most of those who are complaining about the decision are not regulars at these matches and at best may have gone to one or two games in their time. Gates of 200 hardly suggest a great demand from the Northampton public. But I agree that the decision has been delivered at the wrong time and in the wrong manner by falling back on small print to justify in part the decision announced just 5 days before the season begins. If the saving is as suggested in the region of £10,000 it is not exactly going to go far to assist Kevin Wilson in strengthening the team. Also, with the unbudgeted bonus of TV revenue from BSKYB from the Fulham match that money or some of it could have been allocated to covering the cost of the reserves' home fixtures.
Anon at 8:17:30 Tuesday August 8 2000
Good to see so many people posting their views on the reserve caper. Please make sure you e-mail the club too. cc TCMP.
Football Combination at 8:16:32 Tuesday August 8 2000
GAS - Who issued the circular?
Goldie at 7:40:5 Tuesday August 8 2000
I couldnt make the recent Arsenal Res game my zimmer was in for a service. My nephew started supporting the Cobbs in recent years via watching the reserve games. Now it has become a problem as because he is so fat he is encroaching onto my seat. so not sure if reserve games were such a good idea! Will the clock run on until the P.sh game??
My old mans a Cobbler. at 0:46:27 Tuesday August 8 2000
Yeah PattCobb,I also think thats a very good idea,as long as the pitches are good enough.Ground breaking stuff,let us know what sort of response you get from the club.
Northampton Gas at 23:38:7 Monday August 7 2000
Apparently the staff were made aware of this on Friday, following receipt of a circular. They were as surprised as you, the supporters.
ORBITAL Ganja at 23:12:56 Monday August 7 2000
It is a real shame that the club have decided to play reserve games away from public eyes for the time being. This was a great source dor attracting new fans to the club and to the game of football, particulary those of the younger generation who have not experienced the beautiful game. OK so the reserves wasn't Man U vs Bayern Munich. But they were an affordable way youngsters (with parents) could experience a game played in an excellent stadium while watching players from league clubs. Now how many parents will be able to take them to a few more first team games, not many. Cutting away reserve games is cutting out future fans of this club. The other matter in this subject is the fact that the club decide to announce it 4 days before the new season starts, after 3,500 season tickets have been sold (so far). When did they know? when was the earliest that the club thought of this idea of scrapping open matches first bought up? Did they think to tell us I would like a full answer.
Andy at 22:25:54 Monday August 7 2000
I know this site has been mentioned before, but if you want to see one of the funniest, no the funniest, match reports on the web, try http://www.ormondroyd.co.uk/. OK it's a Fulham site, but cast your hatred aside and enjoy. Those of you who disliked Atkins will particularly enjoy the Northampton v Fulham report.
PROTEST TO THE CLUB YA BUGGAS at 22:1:17 Monday August 7 2000
MAKE SURE YOU E-MAIL THE CLUB - AND COPT IT TO TCMP TOO. HE IS THERE FOR US AREN'T YOU TONE?
This is really stoopid at 21:59:30 Monday August 7 2000
GOLDIE - You don't have to go that far back. They had to turn fans away from the reserve fixture v Arsenal at Sixfields. Tony Adams, Boa Morte, Vivas, Winterburn, 4,500!!!!
inside-out at 21:56:48 Monday August 7 2000
the sham regarding reserve team fixtures just about sums up the forward thinking board of directors we have at the club. Just 2 short years ago the club won an award and £1000 for its promotion of reserve team football, more importantly it won over many new supporters particularly from the younger generation. This latest cock-up goes to show that the board don't give a stuff about the supporters and the financial situation at the club is as bad as ever. if they managed the club in a proffessional manner then this situation would not have occured. allegedly £££££££ paid out to Dougie Hodgson cos he was'nt insured when he got injured. Allegedly £££££ paid to the old commercial manager for unfair dismissal..ETC ETC ETC..
Anon at 21:50:18 Monday August 7 2000
I wont be sorry to see that poxy countdown clock disappear in to the mirky mists of time. Each time I refresh it hangs on the bloody thing.
We Can Change This at 21:47:52 Monday August 7 2000
All of you that oppose the move to 'ban the fan' from reserve games MUST write to the club. secretary@ntfc.co.uk
Judge Pickles at 21:37:16 Monday August 7 2000
Anyone read the Fulham comment in MOTD magazine on "Worst Ground" - Sixseats, cos its made of lego, cramped & nasty. Also "Common misconception about Fulham" - most of their fans are glory hunters following Mr Fayed's millions.
Oh yeah and how do average gates compare now with 5 years ago?
Voice your comments both on the 22nd and to the originator on FULHAM INDEPENDENT www.insidetheweb.com/mbs.cgi/mb247770
Goldie at 21:21:13 Monday August 7 2000
Remember the days when we were in the Football Combinations gates in the 000s!! Arsenal, Spurs with Martin Chivers and all that.
MartinW at 20:53:19 Monday August 7 2000
Nice one, Cobblers PR department. Season ticket holders can still go to reserve team matches free. Only, there won't be any. Nice to hear all this AFTER we have all bought our season tickets. "The season ticket advertises and grants free admission to all PUBLIC home reserve matches, and that remains the case," insists the press release.
But..and it's a big one, "Northampton Town Football Club have taken the decision to play all home reserve team matches behind closed doors this season."
For god sake. A bit of honesty is called for.
And do we season ticket holders get some money back?
What next? A 3-0 defeat with the press office saying that if we had scored more goals than the opposition, we would have won?
How about a press release about our failure to capture Daryl Clare, saying that if we had enough money to meet the asking price, we could have afforded him.
Sorry, but this deserve a lot of criticism, folks.
Unless of course it is a joke.
In which case: "Ha ha ha ha ha ha ha."
I know something you don`t know,doda,do,da at 20:50:9 Monday August 7 2000
We are signing a high profile young defender from the premier league aas it has been confirmed that Dobson is about to join POSH!!!!!!!
Big Jim at 20:38:5 Monday August 7 2000
Mark Ovendale has gone to luton for £425,000 I didn`t rate him anyway.
I remember him as a spotty clumsy fellow who did well in the Auto Windscreens and thatm was about it.Could do with the money though.Has Dobson gone to `Boro for a trial?
Andy at 20:36:4 Monday August 7 2000
One thing I object to about the reserve fiasco is the reference to "a five figure loss" That means very little. If it was £99,000 then you would understand, but a £10,000 loss is harder to stomach. So come on NTFC, just how much did you lose last season?
Ralph at 20:23:38 Monday August 7 2000
What a great suggestion PattCobb.
Norwich Cobbler at 20:23:2 Monday August 7 2000
Shame about the reserves playing behind closed doors.Norwich play a lot of their games at their Colney training ground - entry free and you stand at the side of the pitch - just like the Racecourse really!
No stewards no police just the fans.I spent an enjoyable afternoon there last October watching the Cobbs draw 1-1. Kev was very surprised to see 3 Cobblers supporters cheering them on.If Norwich can do it this way why can't the Cobbs. play at Timken or as previously suggested Spencer. I think this is an 'own goal' by the board.Ron Noades - stick it where the sun don't shine! Hope we stuff them on Saturday.
Eric at 20:17:27 Monday August 7 2000
I see the BBC online service has the Cobblers nicely placed in 10th position (Posh in 14th!!!)in Div 2.
Just a quick note to wish the squad the best of fortunes for the coming season and a plea to all those "supporters " who after one bad game condemn players and manager alike,Lay off winning is all about confidence, if in doubt read Fergie's biography.
My old mans a Cobbler. at 19:34:34 Monday August 7 2000
Here we go,Blah,Blah bloody Blah.
Anon at 19:13:57 Monday August 7 2000
very sly tactic about the reserves typical of us supporters are being treated and told a load of crap.TCMP TALKS CRAP ANY WAY UNLESS IT BOOSTS HIS EGO.
442? at 18:45:51 Monday August 7 2000
I along with many others banged on about 442 in the Atkins era, I think Euro 2000 showed the future is 532/352 defending/attacking.
Pickled Judge at 18:6:47 Monday August 7 2000
If a five figure sum was being lost at the reserve games how can it go to Kevin to bolster the first team. You can't give someone a negative surely?
Luton Cobb at 17:15:34 Monday August 7 2000
No wonder Mr Noades is such a popular man. I just tried accessing the official Brentford site. It was literally launched at 5pm today and there is a charge of £25 per year to access the latest info!!!!!!!!
Anon at 16:53:57 Monday August 7 2000
Mr Ron Noades - we look on the match against "bloody" Brentford as one of our less attractive fixtures
marco at 16:41:19 Monday August 7 2000
Ron Noades endearing himself to the Cobblers fans ahead of Saturday. In today's Evening Standard: :"I miss being involved in the bigger scene and the big games. The Premier League is a massive theatre - with 90 minute productions.
"Being away to bloody Northampton Town for the first match of the season is not like arriving at any of the Premier League grounds."
Vince at 16:17:14 Monday August 7 2000
I was surprised when Mark Ovendale was released in favour of Turley. He has been a key player at his last 2 clubs (Barry and Bournemouth) and on the odd occasion he played for NTFC looked a good prospect. Good luck to him.
Anon at 15:55:13 Monday August 7 2000
On the subject of former Cobblers, Mark Ovendale has signed for Luton from Bournemouth for £425,000.
DIGUSTED at 15:46:11 Monday August 7 2000
HELLOOOOOOOOO??? TONY DOBSON IS GOING ON TRIAL AT PETERBOROUGH!!!!!
Tino at 15:2:26 Monday August 7 2000
Just thought you'd like to know that Carlo made his Oldham debut yesterday. He had an excellent game, linking up well with Allott. He created one goal in a 3-1 victory, but missed a penalty with the last kick of the match. Ack, and after you chaps had hyped him up to be a penalty spot king !!
Incidentally, the game was against an under strength Leeds team that did contain Huckerby & Danny Mills.
Let's hope Carlo can grab a goal against Man City Tommorrow.
Good luck against Brentford next week !!
Mystic Meg at 14:31:12 Monday August 7 2000
All this moaning about the reserve team fixtures makes me think some of you lot have too much time on your hands and therefore should apply for the advertised job on the official news page!!!
Id imagine you'd get to watch The Town (and that means the 1st team!!)....... for FREE!!!!!!!!!
Anon at 14:8:54 Monday August 7 2000
Like i said before dont complain on here complain to the club. as long as they thing everyone is taking this lying down they are going to be laughing
Carl at 13:53:12 Monday August 7 2000
DJ from Darlington, a big fat zero.
nsb at 13:46:40 Monday August 7 2000
man utd get their bloody reserve games live on sky!!!!
DJ at 13:31:5 Monday August 7 2000
How many goals has Marco Gabbiadini scored in pre-season friendlies?
DEK at 13:23:3 Monday August 7 2000
Anon, Is this the regular Anon ? If so, what has made you so negative, I thought that was my job!!
The Bishop at 12:52:4 Monday August 7 2000
"ah, well, unfortunately Vicar you opted for our 'never pay' policy, which means that should you make any claim under any circumstances whatever, we will never pay." Hopefully we'll all get a nude lady in a shopping trolley instead, just like the Vicar did.
Northampton Gas at 12:42:7 Monday August 7 2000
Interesting debate about the reserve team games, or not. Last season I went to quite a few reserve team games, sorry these involved The Gas, but I was amazed by the number of clubs that played evening games in front of 100/200 supporters. The cost of the floodlighting alone must have cost a fortune. The point of playing games at other local grounds may be a none starter, as I believe that the games MUST be played at the clubs own grounds. Despite the above, this is a huge own goal even if it is legal. It would be interesting to hear TCMP's comments
Cobbler in the West at 12:37:3 Monday August 7 2000
Poor PR by the Cobblers to make the reserve matches announcement at this time and by relying on what they call in the law game "weasel clauses" even poorer I'm afraid. On this occasion NTFC "nil points".
pattcobbs secretary at 12:4:17 Monday August 7 2000
similar exercise to announcing the big signings AFTER the season ticket discount had finished........Stonhill -typical estate agent............."BUYER "But I thought it said on the contract reserve matches included" STONHILL "Read the small print"
PATTCOBB at 11:59:49 Monday August 7 2000
Cobblers,heres an idea how about spreading the reserve matches around the county,much like the cricket team does.Lots of clubs for example Bugbrooke,Spencer and Daventry Town all have adequate facilities and would welcome extra income particularly if these games could be played on Monday's which is usually a quiet night.I feel this would enhance relations with thes clubs ,appease fans and aso open up a whole new audience for example the many players and officials of these Saturday clubs un able to attend games..........I WILL EMAIL THIS TO NTFC.......
Anon at 11:59:6 Monday August 7 2000
dyl if that was excellent football you must be watching with glass on .theirs no kids coming through now monies gone on all the over thirties with good potential.their will only be fuul houses next season any way becauce of the away support.we must get promotion with the sqad we have got .its much more experienced now than the one we had two years ago that finished fourth. now hunt spedding howard savage hunter are older. especially the money being paid reportedly. sixfields still lacks the atmosphere of the atko era though .
Carl at 11:43:20 Monday August 7 2000
I agree Dyl. it just made me go yuk!! when I heard just seems a little cheap and tacky, if they had been upfront about it, people would have understood.
Dyl at 11:33:43 Monday August 7 2000
I have attended very few reserve games, but it was nice in the twilight of the Atkins era to be able to see real football played at Sixfields (and that only came from the reserves). Now that Kev is manager we have been getting excellent football in the 1st team. If the 5 figure sum saved goes to the playing side of the club as promised well then that's not a bad trade off cos it should make the 1st team even better. And that surely is what is most important?
Fred at 11:27:13 Monday August 7 2000
Yet another massive PR own goal by the Cobblers. I can not believe that this decision has only been made in the last few days. With a large percentage of games this season looking as if they will sell out, there goes the opportunity for casual supporters or people such as myself to take the kids to a game. A REMINDER - IT WAS ONLY 2 YEARS AGO THE CLUB WAS BEING PRAISED FOR IT'S RESERVE TEAM NIGHTS, FOR BRING IN THE KIDS (DIDN'T WE WIN AN AWARD?) Surely the club would be better of promoting reserve games and trying to get fans through the door or is it all too much bother.
Stirring The Pot at 11:26:27 Monday August 7 2000
The point about "public reserve team games" is political spin and a cop out. Who wrote this statement Alister Campbell!!!
Vince at 11:26:0 Monday August 7 2000
Yes, a great shame about the reserve games, they made a nice change from watching first team matches and a chance to see how some of the youger players and those recovering from injury were progressing. I can understand why the club have made this decision and I know hindsight is tuppence a bucketful but as the reasons for making the decision where there at the end of last season it would have been better to announce this before season tickets were sold. The comment that free entry was available for public games and this remains the case is not really helpful and will satisfy people who now feel they are losing out.
Carl at 11:20:51 Monday August 7 2000
I think the point about PUBLIC games is a very shoddy, cheap excuse and I have told them so, it's just not nice having that privelage taken away.
Ralph at 11:14:26 Monday August 7 2000
Sad news indeed and I will write with my thoughts on the matter to the club. For those who couldn't attend the reserve games they were a great source of entertainment, even in Atkins' days the approach was open and attacking!!!!!
Disgusted at 11:10:26 Monday August 7 2000
WHAT THE F*CK DOES TONY DOBSON THINK HE IS DOING??? GOING ON TRIAL AT BORO'!!!
Ray at 11:7:0 Monday August 7 2000
The following official statement has just been released by the Club:
Northampton Town Football Club have taken the decision to play all home
reserve team matches behind closed doors this season.
This decision has been reached after a great deal of thought by the club,
and it was eventually felt that the club could not continue to operate
reserve team football in front of crowds at Sixfields while running up
large losses. Whenever a reserve match is staged at Sixfields, the vast,
vast majority of the crowd gain free admission through their season ticket
while the club's costs of stewarding and medical cover remian the same. We
are unable to use volunteer stewards or the like as we will not compromise
public safety.
The season ticket advertises and grants free admission to all PUBLIC home
reserve matches, and that remains the case. If, later in the season, the
club decides to open the matches up again, season ticket holders will again
receive free admission.
Last season, the club made a loss of well in to 5 figures. For the coming
campaign, the club has decided that this money would be better spent at the
Manager's disposal to allow him to strengthen the squad as he sees fit.
Northampton Town Football Club apologise for any disappointment this
decision may cause, but hope that supporters understand the reasons behind
it.
Anon at 11:4:27 Monday August 7 2000
Dont complain on here write to the club.
pattcobbs secretary at 11:3:32 Monday August 7 2000
you mean KICK IN THE TEETH
PATTCOBB at 10:54:11 Monday August 7 2000
ANON-I do give a f6ck about the reserves.WHY?Because having just bought a season ticket for 276 pounds.I have no "free" 1st team games this season my only "privileges" being priority tickets and of course my guaranteed home seat.In other words nothing of actual monetary value.I think this is a definite kick in the ass from the club,normally pretty good with public relations.
Anon at 10:37:14 Monday August 7 2000
WHO GIVES A F*CK ABOUT THE RESERVES ANYWAY.MEANINGLESS DRIVEL NOT WORTH WATCHING NOW THE PREMIERSHIP RESERVE TEAMS HAVE THEIR OWN DIVISION.PREDICTION-OUR LIMITED SQUAD SHOULD MEAN A PRETTY CR*P SEASON FOR THE RESERVES AND FOR SATURDAY ......... A DRAW METHINKS POSSIBLY 1-1 (GABBIADINI)
Anon at 10:25:15 Monday August 7 2000
Well it normally costs £3 for the reserves. Multiply this by the number of home matches and ask the club for that amount back.
Stirring The Pot at 10:17:55 Monday August 7 2000
You can always ask for a refund, ala Spurs
Cobbler in the West at 8:43:4 Monday August 7 2000
I have never been to a reserve team match (my excise is I live too far away)so I cannot complain too loudly but it seems an odd decision and one to be regretted if the reports are accurate. Also as someone has already pointed out one of season tickets are sold promoting the fact that holders are entitled to free admission to reserve fixtures and this is probably a breach of the Trade Descriptions Act. Not a good weekend on or off the pitch.
Mystic Meg at 7:49:31 Monday August 7 2000
Prediction for Saturday......Cobblers 1 Brentford 1
Gomez at 0:4:19 Monday August 7 2000
Being able to attend reserve team fixtures free of charge was an inducement to sign up for a season ticket, I do believe. The Trade Descriptions Act springs to mind.
Mark Too at 23:43:18 Sunday August 6 2000
Jimbee....Jimbee...... You can stop dreaming now Jimbee!
Jimbee at 23:24:22 Sunday August 6 2000
Thanks for the 3 points on Saturday to get the Bees off to a flyer. No hard feelings guys.
Ralph at 23:4:37 Sunday August 6 2000
RAY - I would feel very strongly about the reserve games being played behind closed doors. Surely an official statement is in order. I know you have contacts within the Club but this is a shoddy way for the news to get out.
This looks like another PR gaff waiting to go off!
Steve at 21:38:26 Sunday August 6 2000
Well, we're off on our hols tomorrow. Typical bad timing - we always miss the first couple of games. Still, we'll be flying the flag in Britanny, with our Claret VW people carrier, and me wiv me new Cobblers shirt, signed by Roy Hunter. All the best for Saturday. Come on you mighty Cobbs!!!!
Anon at 20:40:57 Sunday August 6 2000
it was a terrible performance why wher all the players arguing with each other on the pitch sammy, gabbers.we will win the first three then i can see one hell of a struggle with no one to pull it round do the players respect the manager . seems not.why are we playing 5.3.2. when we were told a 4.4.2 was going to be used becauce it was more attacking .why is.nt hodge playing . he,s better than gibb we where told.gibb is now a regular in a first division side good business that
Anon at 20:30:51 Sunday August 6 2000
stewpot it was nice to have a manager who had his heart on his sleeve and able to motivate and he did bring all the best players to this club and gave us some great years and respect,what ever his faults.
Rachel at 18:56:11 Sunday August 6 2000
I'm not gonna attempt @ a prediction!
britgal at 18:46:50 Sunday August 6 2000
cobblers 2 (forrester, savage) brentford 0
Pickled Judge at 18:17:20 Sunday August 6 2000
The platform at the top of the stairs leading to the security office (near the scoreboard) has officially been named Atko's Perch. Did you guys know that? Seems odd to honour him in this way. Oh well..
Prediction time now its less than a week:
Cobblers 3 Brentford 1 (Forrester, Gabbo & Frain!).
John Sloman at 17:26:14 Sunday August 6 2000
It could be considered an act of mercy by the club by keeping spectators out of the ground for the reserve match. Why torture the fans any more than they have to.
Stewpot the MK crew at 11:45:17 Sunday August 6 2000
I noticed at the Kettering friendly(use the word loosley) Mr.Wilson wagging his finger and actully shouting to a player, is this a first and a taste of things to come as I have never seen Mr.Wilson get so annimated since he took over unlike Mean Brumkins at Knighton Towers scrap yard whos annimated configurations were nothing short of tic tac toe betting totes and stockbrockers language. Reading team talk Mr.Wilson it says lambasted the perfomance away at Lincoln yesterday.This I find difficult to believe but I think it would do some good to see Mr.Wilson get annimated at the team which might give them that extra bit of metal and fight in there bellies. At the kettering match you wouldve thought that Ernest Moss the kettering second lakkie had his life depending on the result with his continual shouts,screams and gesticulations. Maybe we could sell not just golden goal tickets but also what minute Steve Howard ends up on his arse, what minute Gabby retaliates and what minute Mr.Wilson ventures out to the edge of the technical area and wags his finger and shouts at a player rather than stand close to Kevan admiring the beautiful structure of the opponents floodlight pylons. If anyone has sky digital look out for one of the discovery channels I think its the home and lesiure channel there is a program called bottom of the league which chronicles Chester Citys demise from the football league with in depth interviews with Brum Meakins and of course the sterotypical argument repeats itself over and over again ITS NOT MY FAULT, blame the players, opposition,bus driver, old Tom Cobbley and all a fascinating bit of tv. Only 6 days 3 hours 29 mins and 39 secs to D-Day. Reading the bees website it seems Woody wont be playing against us. Does anybody know which day the official team photo will appear in this weeks chron & ech, last year it was monday the year before saturday the year before that friday, living in MK i have to order it special as nobody else wants it, although I have the paper downloaded into my pc files I doubt if a large picture will be shoen at all. All the best for the coming season will have to decide what will be my lucky clothes to wear for the coming season UP THE COBBLERS.
Ray at 11:5:25 Sunday August 6 2000
For people that feel strongly about the decision not to allow the public into reserve games, the email address of the club is secretary@ntfc.co.uk.
DavCobbler at 9:34:25 Sunday August 6 2000
There really is something much too familiar about waking up on a Sunday morning after being beaten by a side that on paper we should have buried. I`m one of the more optimistic in our ranks but from the reports of yesterdays game I`m not sure if that is for the best. Never mind eh........ win or lose.......rain or shine.....Stella or Kronenburg...... Frozen peas or fresh peas...... to be or not to be.......bored and making up absolute drivel or having a great time on a Sunday morning....... Cobbler till I die, CTID !!!!
TRCDU at 0:9:21 Sunday August 6 2000
Good stuff BR I shall expect a full match report following the magnificent victory!!!
Big Roy at 0:5:10 Sunday August 6 2000
Well I'm off on my Hols tomorrow. Carry on the fight without me. See ya all on Saturday (except TRCDU of course!)
TRCDU at 23:58:14 Saturday August 5 2000
In all seriousness it appears that the Club are blaming financial loss as the reason for the closed doors. I can only assume that this is due to the fact that staffing costs to cover regs insurance etc at a stadium the size of Sixfields are large. This being the case and assuming that as they have stated how "important" the Fans, ie us are then surely a simple compromise in the form of moving the games to a different site such as the Spencer ground for example would be an erstwhile solution. Do they really hold us in as high a regard as they say well this is a good opportunity for them to show us.
TRCDU at 23:47:49 Saturday August 5 2000
Back to QC hard to say I can only suggest we take up Big Roys chant and mail the Club directly the other option is to make a CD called "We can't see the Reserves no more" have a revote and play it as the run out song !
TRCDU at 23:45:24 Saturday August 5 2000
Bloody hell given the season ticket sasles and the fact I wont be getting back to Nupton before Oct the Reserve games would have been the only ones I got to see !!!
Big Roy(ston) at 23:39:50 Saturday August 5 2000
It'll be humbugs this year Les!
Les (Fat) at 23:35:10 Saturday August 5 2000
I'm really unhappy about the reserve matches - I agree with the comment about taking money under false pretences and will take the matter up with the club. I agree with Royston, it provides a good social night out and an opportunity to filch toffee eclairs. Not happy, where are you Garfield Wishart - a public statement is required.
QC at 23:17:59 Saturday August 5 2000
I wonder what the legal implications are of taking money under false pretences (i.e. offering free entry to reserve games to season ticket holders and then withdrawing that facility once the money is received)?
Still miffed at 23:6:28 Saturday August 5 2000
Thank you
Big Roy at 22:59:37 Saturday August 5 2000
I already have done. Follow the links on the main page to send an e-mail.
Miffed at 22:58:23 Saturday August 5 2000
This closure of Reserve games doesn't seem to be fair to me. Can I email the club and ask them the reasons why. Also if anyone else is bothered by it do it as well. We may make a difference. What is the address?
Big Roy at 22:25:12 Saturday August 5 2000
They were a great chance to see the younger players and returning injured players. It was also a good social evening out. Apparently the club made a five figure loss on these games last season due to the cost of staffing. I guess it's hard to argue against that but I always saw it as a bonus for season ticket holders and an integral part of my enjoyment of the season.
Big Roy at 22:22:32 Saturday August 5 2000
sorry pressed okay too soon! to be continued ...
Big Roy at 22:21:32 Saturday August 5 2000
I've just read the news (on WALOC) that all reserve games will be played behind closed doors next season. This is a real disappointment. I think I went to nearly all the reserve games last season and they were a great chance to
WSD at 22:10:13 Saturday August 5 2000
Tuppy - good job the season hasn't started yet then isn't it?!
Mark Too at 21:53:33 Saturday August 5 2000
In your dreams Tuppy!
Tuppy at 21:49:5 Saturday August 5 2000
Im Sorry But you lot were crap this afternoon.We outplayed,outfought generally took the piss.And as For Moaning Twat up front gabbiadini i dont know how much your paying him but its to much.Well be swapping wiv you next year Div 3 Champions 2000/2001!
COL at 21:30:46 Saturday August 5 2000
VERY POOR!!
WSD at 21:26:49 Saturday August 5 2000
Anon, I was simply providing it for the people that were asking about the game, who played etc.
strangler F.F.C. at 21:25:42 Saturday August 5 2000
allright you wobblers ,noticed you were having a blindin
pre season ,look forward to seeing you again,hopefully the
last,don`t want to predict score as you know what it will be
Carl at 21:22:10 Saturday August 5 2000
COL, so it was pretty shite then?
COL at 20:47:16 Saturday August 5 2000
What a waste of a Saturday that was, O.K. it was hot, but both teams had to play in the same conditions. Lincoln was up for it, The Cobblers I am afraid to say were not. Thank god it was pre-season without anything counting on it, but a better preformance should have been put in by The Cobblers for the 100+ supporters who made the effort, committed their time & paid over their hard earned reddies to get to, & get into Sincil Bank!!!!!!
Anon at 20:29:49 Saturday August 5 2000
id rather see a report form someone who was at the game rather than regurgitated pap which has already been printed elsewhere
WSD - Team Today at 19:55:15 Saturday August 5 2000
Team v Lincoln; Welch, Hughes, Spedding (sub 74 Hargreaves), Sampson,
Green, Hope, Savage, Hunt, Frain, Forrester (sub 63 Howard), Gabbiadini.
Released defender Tony Dobson was named as an unused substitute as he
continues to train with the club to try and build fitness to win a contract
elsewhere.
WSD - Cobb News report at 19:54:37 Saturday August 5 2000
Northampton Town completed their pre-season build up at Sincil Bank this
afternoon with a 3-0 defeat at Lincoln City.
All 3 goals came in the second period, David Cameron scoring the first on
49 minutes after a suspicion of a push on Ian Samspon, while Gavin Gordon
made it 2 just 3 minutes later. City completed the scoring when Marcus
Stergilopoulus curled straight in with 7 minutes to go.
"This sort of performance is just not good enough," said Cobblers boss
Kevin Wilson. "It won't be tolerated and the main plus point is that it
wasn't a league game. Having said that, we'll be ready for next week and we
might look back in a few weeks and say this was a blessing in disguise. I
know what my side is for next weekend and we'll take things forward from
there."
Mark Too at 19:42:11 Saturday August 5 2000
Phew.... It appears Gabbiadini played at Lincoln.
Carl at 19:1:43 Saturday August 5 2000
Where is Captain Mainwaring when you need him, or Seargeant Pike
Ray at 18:59:21 Saturday August 5 2000
Not saying I'm in a panic....but....anyone at the game can provide a report?
Spanish Cobbler at 18:54:18 Saturday August 5 2000
What side did he put out?
Ford Prefect at 18:52:41 Saturday August 5 2000
Have you not read my book Carl? Don't Panic!
Can't you Read? at 18:50:32 Saturday August 5 2000
Lincoln Free, Cobblers Nuffink!
CobblerFanatic at 18:34:34 Saturday August 5 2000
What was todays score?
Carl at 18:14:34 Saturday August 5 2000
So now we are all going to panic?
Judge at 17:13:43 Saturday August 5 2000
Darryl Clare sent off for 'violent conduct'. Always seemed such a nice boy when he played for us!
PostMan at 17:12:34 Saturday August 5 2000
Lincoln Free, Cobblers Nuffink!
Phil Baron at 16:14:37 Saturday August 5 2000
Wot no postings?
Rachel at 13:3:36 Saturday August 5 2000
This time in 7 dayz! I can't wait!
daily blah at 12:5:29 Saturday August 5 2000
Cobbler King's telling "Daily Mails"
CAPTAINCOBBLER at 12:5:14 Saturday August 5 2000
Alex Ferguson calls David Beckham into his office.
'David,' he says, 'I'm worried about your performance the last few games. You've been hopeless, completely off form.'
'Sorry, boss', says David. 'I've not been myself lately. I've got a few problems at home.'
'Oh dear,' says Ferguson, pretending to care. 'What's up? Posh and
Brooklyn okay?'
> 'Oh they're fine', says David. 'It's just that something's really bugging
> me
> and I'm losing sleep and everything. I can't concentrate on my football
> and
> it's really messing me up.'
>
> 'Whatever's the matter, David?' says Fergie.
> 'Well, boss', says David, 'it's pretty serious. You see I'm really stuck on this jigsaw and...'
'A jigsaw?!!!' shouts Alex. 'You're fu**ing up every time you play because of a bloo*y jigsaw?!!!'
>
> 'Yeah, boss, but you don't understand, it's really doing my head in!' says David in that horrible whining voice. 'It's really
> hard and it's this picture of a tiger and it looks really good on the box
> and I'm sure I've got all the bits and everything but I just can't get it
right and it's doing my head in and I even had my hair cut to try and cool my brain down and...'
'David, David, David,' says Ferguson. 'You've got to get a grip. It's
affecting our games and nothing is as important as
Manchester United's success, other than Roy Keane's wages, obviously.'
>
> 'Yeah, boss,' says David, 'but it's this picture of a tiger and it looks
> really good on the box and I really want to finish it but it's really hard and it's doing my head in and it's this picture..and it's a tiger and it's
> hard...and I can't make the bits fit and, er, it's really hard, er, boss and, er, it's a tiger, er,... on the box...er...boss.'
>
> Ferguson waits until even Beckham realises he's repeating himself and has
> got
> nothing else to say which took a bit longer than usual.
>
> 'David,' he says, with that conceited, irritating, smug smile he uses for
> self-congratulatory post-match interviews. 'Bring
> the tiger jigsaw in and let's have a look at it. For Christ's sake, we've
> got
> to get you back to playing football.'
>
> 'Oh thanks, boss,' says David, 'that'd be really helpful 'cos it's really
> hard
> and it's a picture of a tiger and it's doing my head in, that tiger is.'
>
> So David brings the jigsaw into Ferguson's office.
> 'Here it is, boss.' he says, showing Ferguson the picture on the box.
> 'Look,
> boss, it's this tiger, right, and it's a really good picture and
everything
> but I just can't do it and it's really hard and it's doing my head in and it's this picture here of a tiger,' and Beckham empties all the pieces from the box all over Ferguson's desk. Ferguson looks at what's on his desk and the feint dusty cloud now hanging over it. He looks up at David Beckham.
>
> 'David, put the fu**ing Frosties back in the box.'
>
>
Anon at 11:36:56 Saturday August 5 2000
I'd still trade P*** going down for two wins over them this season.
Ray at 11:32:59 Saturday August 5 2000
Doesn't that sound familiar to the situation we were in the year we were relegated? Put your money on Poo for the drop.
britgal at 11:18:39 Saturday August 5 2000
i don't know about Gabbi, but posh r in trouble. Exerpts from my local newspaper, the Peterborough Herald and Post: POSH HIT BY DEFENSIVE INJURY CRISIS Posh defensive pair Adam Drury and Simon Rea are fighting to be fit for the start of the new campaign after hobbling out of the same pre-season friendly.
Boss Barry Fry's preparations for the campaign which begins next Saturday are being plagued by an injury crisis which also put pay to third defender Matthew Wicks. -=-=-=- And despite his frontmen firing two more blanks in the last two pre-season workouts, Fry insists the growing injury list is his biggest concern. -=-=-=- Fry, whose only summer signing is battling midfielder Richard Forsyth, would have liked to further add to his 28 man squad ahead of the start of the season but appreciates the tight London Road purse strings.
He added: "In an ideal world, I would have liked to bring in another goalkeeper, centre half, right sided midfield player and another centre forward.
"But we have to cut the cloth and it is important this club turns the financial losses around."
But Fry fears injuries to key players during the season could leave his inexperienced squad facing a fight for survival.
"Fourteen of the 28 lads are under 21 and 21 of them are under 24," he continued. "It doesn't take a genius to work out with injuries to main players, we might struggle but I am determined to keep our Second Division status."
Anon at 11:16:10 Saturday August 5 2000
If you look at teamtalk you will see that there are no injury worries so this Gabbiadini wind-up is a childish prank
Andy at 10:53:2 Saturday August 5 2000
I would have thought that if Gabbiadini was injured on Wednesday we would all know by now, even if the club were trying to keep it secret. I hope it's all nonsense, but even if it isn't he could still score more goals on one leg than most strikers we've had at the club!
Ray at 10:21:28 Saturday August 5 2000
I 'm afraid I don't know anything about this Gabbiadini report.
DavCobbler at 9:32:40 Saturday August 5 2000
YIIPPEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE only 7 days..5 hours.....and 26 ferkin minutes left !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
CDU at 3:34:22 Saturday August 5 2000
Morning chaps !!
My old mans a Cobbler. at 0:34:43 Saturday August 5 2000
Ray,I presume this Gabbiadini talk is nonsence.
Ray at 0:32:3 Saturday August 5 2000
You should know by now that pre-season matches bear no relationship at all to the forthcoming season. On the other hand I agree completely with your assessment of your chances of promotion.
R+D at 0:25:12 Saturday August 5 2000
Rushden + D 1-5 Luton Town. Aren't we good. We'll storm the conference this year! I mean, what a great result, losing only 5-1 at home to 2nd division relegation fodder.
Anon at 23:18:48 Friday August 4 2000
Mr King, is your first name Wan?
Tony at 23:10:57 Friday August 4 2000
I read the mail and it's complete bolox (Cobbler King's Story) The Mail is quite a good read, unlike all those other Labour propaganda papers.... "Call me Tory, not Tony". LOL
Rodney Marshall(Moaning Cobbler) at 22:22:27 Friday August 4 2000
Will someone please confirm that Cobbler King is taking the ****. If so, why bother?
Ray at 20:1:47 Friday August 4 2000
If anyone has any information regarding the incident at the Watford game, could they please make themselves known to the Club, either by email, secretary@ntfc.co.uk or telephoning on 01604 757773. Gareth Wilshire is the contact in each case.
Cobbler King at 19:33:54 Friday August 4 2000
MARCO GABBIADINI INJURY SCARE - The Mail 4/8/00
Last years Division 3 top scorer has had a reccurence of a potentially career threatening injury from his days at Sunderland.
Manager Kevin Wilson commented: "We knew Marcos knee was bad when we got him from Darlington. It was a chance we took and unfortunately it has not paid off"
toby at 18:16:41 Friday August 4 2000
how canm i get hold of the torquey vid can eny 1 help
Pickled Judge at 17:59:37 Friday August 4 2000
In 1942 Sir Winston Churchill was entertaining in his bunker as he had managed to save up four ration vouchers for pork roast. At the table was Martha Hunt (later to become one of Marc Bolans girlfriends) and Nancy Ruff (a second-cousin to Lord Haw Haw). The talk turned to footy (as it was known by the knobs back then) and Martha was quite knowledgable whereas Churchill knew toffee-all but pretended he did. Anyhow Martha knew Nancy to be a bit of a psychic and asked her to make some predictions re the fabulous football league. It is quite extraordinary to reveal now just three of those she made. First she predicted that the Premier league would break away in 1993 (pretty close eh?). She also predicted that all teams wearing red shirts would one day feel the wrath of the lord. It is her final prediction however that shook those around the table and caused Churchill to utter those immortal words 'by heck lass, ye may be a whore but I wouldn't touch you with Barry Frys'. Her reply 'sod you Winnie I wouldn't let you nearer than a trout in a whirlpool'! They laughed on and on through the night as you can imagine.
My old mans a Cobbler. at 17:31:32 Friday August 4 2000
Crout ,kraut,crowt,krowt,oh I dunno I was only joking.
Danny at 16:53:36 Friday August 4 2000
Woah there!!!! my god we've really gone deep in the ol' "What is and isn't racist or offensive" Now a days you can't say anything without someone taking offence to it.
Captain Caveman at 16:32:35 Friday August 4 2000
UG
My old mans a Cobbler. at 15:8:28 Friday August 4 2000
Oh pi55 off with your stupid crout name,Oh,Oh,Oops sorry mate I meant to say,yeah good point.
Klaus Wunderbarenhausen at 13:21:44 Friday August 4 2000
Well it stirred up the debate a bit. Reference the Darcus Howe programme: It was an excellent piece that left me, an englishman, cringing. The point is there is a prejudiced element in all of us whether that be age, size, sex, hair colour, race, religion, football club et al. Prejudice has always existed and probably always will, all we can do is be more aware of our failings and try and respect differences. But the bottom line is nobody is totally exempt from prejudicial feelings it is inherent in our genes/psyche.
Carl at 13:17:5 Friday August 4 2000
As in Willy (insert rude word here) and his chocolate factory
Anun at 13:8:24 Friday August 4 2000
What about wanka?
PATTCOBB at 12:54:39 Friday August 4 2000
On the Cobblers Superstore web page an end of season video (priced 15 pounds ) is advertised,is this for last season ? Some of the merchandise and shirts etc does seem to be out of date.
Anon at 12:40:26 Friday August 4 2000
Phlegm what a strange spelling of a strange word, Diarrhoea there's another.
To Bulldog at 12:37:37 Friday August 4 2000
You are quite right to point out the evil of Nazism. But you are wrong if you think that neo-nazis are insignificant in the UK. The victims of the bombings in London last year would disagree, as would the victims of racist attacks. I suggest you check out http://www.searchlightmagazine.com/ . In the football context we have the 'no surrender' brigade, we have racist/jingoistic songs, and we have racist abuse. The same people who at football matches abuse black or foreign players are the same ones who think that they are pure Anglo-Saxon, when by definition you cannot be pure Anglo-Saxon. The racist ideology of the far right is screwed up and should not have any outlet at a football match.
Anthropologist Cobbler at 12:29:43 Friday August 4 2000
Darcus Howe did a good TV programme about exactly that argument; made a lot of his mis-opinionated white guests look very foolish. Stated the obvious, that pretty much everyone in the world has a mixed ethnic / national background if one looks back in time far enough. Me, I'm English-Welsh by lineage, but recent studies suggest that both peoples' lineages contain elements not only from the Germanic-Nordic strains (mainly the English) or the Breton-Castile-Frankish strains (the Welsh), but also from as far afield as Turkey (the Ottomans particularly intermarried with Celts in northern Spain), the Black Sea and Tokharian-speaking regions, and northern Arabic lands. there must be a number of us in the British Isles who could (theoretically, if genetics allowed) trace their lineage back thousands of years without it leaving the Isles, but really we're all the same.
Malcolm at 12:17:34 Friday August 4 2000
Best of luck to NTFC from a supporter now living in the Republic of Ireland
Malcolm
Bulldog at 11:50:53 Friday August 4 2000
To Oh my god..: oh ye the one who has all the answers!!, where was the far right last time it meant anything ...Adolf.. and what constitutes an invader other than a racist in its purist form...dickwad
Vince at 10:50:53 Friday August 4 2000
Sid, that's the biggest reaction that I've ever seen from Sampson and Wooter must have done something to upset him. Having said that Wooter ws a class act and certainly the best Watford player. Pattcobb, the club haven't sold end of season videos for some time, I think that Gary Mabee who used to do them had a fall out with the club shortly after we moved to Sixfields. The Torquay match is available on video although no commentary.
Oh my God are you thick at 8:42? at 10:34:56 Friday August 4 2000
You're not German because you are Anglo-Saxon? Saxony is in Germany! Claiming to be Anglo-Saxon only proves that you are the spawn of two different sets of invaders (Angles from Scandanavia and Saxons from Germany). It makes me laugh when the idiotic far right claim to be pure anglo-saxon when the hyphen proves that there is no such thing as a pure English race. Apart from the Celts, most of us of all mixed-race.
PATTCOBB at 10:34:4 Friday August 4 2000
Does the club shop still do end of season videos.I used to buy one every season but have missed the last few.Last seasons would be qite good
Sid at 10:23:17 Friday August 4 2000
It's good to see Wilson putting out the same side for the Kettering and Watford matches - is this the team he will put out on August 12th barring injuries?? Frain switching to left back gave us some options, but I feel Spedding may have be content with the bench after Hargreaves' arrival. Did anyone see why Sammo pushed Nordin Wooter in the head after he scored on Wednesday?? Sammo doesn't usually react like that for nothing!
Strange but true at 10:13:52 Friday August 4 2000
The night war was declared in 1914 Churchill and Lloyd George were dining at Carlton House. The person who cooked the vegetables for the meal was Ho Chi Minh.
Vince at 9:50:18 Friday August 4 2000
Andy, Nancy Astor was the one who said to Churchill if I were married to you I would put poison in your coffee to which Churchill replied If I were married to you I would drink it.
Andy at 9:31:16 Friday August 4 2000
I always thought it was Lady Nancy Astor
Stuey Robbo Big Barsturd at 8:46:40 Friday August 4 2000
I'd just like to say that both the clock on this site and the music performed by "Big People who like Balti", a great band !!!!,are second to none.
Get A Grip Sonny I'm Anglo Saxon at 8:42:54 Friday August 4 2000
Klaus you're talking out of your arsneewengerhausen !!!! Germanic my bott bott
PATTCOBB at 8:14:23 Friday August 4 2000
Good morning ladies and gentlemen.Pattcobb is pleased to announce that he is,or soon will be the proud owner of a season ticket in the North Stand.THANK YOU NTFC,THANK YOU THA ASSOCIATES,THANK YOU FELLOW POSTERS AND ADVISERS,THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU!!!!!!!!
Klaus Wunderbarenhausen at 7:56:57 Friday August 4 2000
On the rascist note, most of the white population of Britain are of Germanic/Nordic stock.
Carl at 1:20:13 Friday August 4 2000
Rodney some of us never boo. I agree with you that now is the time to get behind them. So really if we win on Saturday week we are in unknown territory so lets win and see what comes
Rodney Marshall(Moaning Cobbler) at 0:8:3 Friday August 4 2000
One week to go! Let's all get behind the team next weekend. No boos, however bad it gets. We've lost our opening fixture now for the last four years at least...and three of those seasons were successes in the end. Here's to plenty of entertainment, goals, sell-out crowds and NO racism, violence or negative vibes. The season starts here...well bloody soon anyway.
EBAY at 23:13:27 Thursday August 3 2000
Have a look on the UK EBay auction site football stuff - loads of old 2nd division football badges up for grabs courtsey of captaincobbler !!
Pete at 22:27:8 Thursday August 3 2000
Bessie Braddock, built like a bus, was her name - or similar- Liverpool MP if I remember correctly. She objected to Churchill leading the country in a permanent stupor. One of the great 'put downs' in the history of Paliament. My main concern last night was the worry that our dream duo up front are trying to sort out who is going to be top goal scorer- they both want it badly and are liable not to help each other. Forrester look rather the greedier at times, Gabbiadini looked to be getting fed up with him in the end. Ian Hendon was lucky not to get send of after bashing the 2nd goal scorer- I suspect the ref saw the whole thing and decided the little pest ( wish he played for us ) deserved it. The sport of the night seemed to be - for Watford- how often do we need to kick Gab before he hits back? Hendon and Gab will compete with Howard (watch my accidental elbow in your face) for the worst 'card' record for the season.
Carl at 21:57:49 Thursday August 3 2000
Oi Oi
britgal at 21:18:57 Thursday August 3 2000
sorry, the comment at 21:14 was me. i know it might sound a bit extreme or something but i really don't like racism
My old mans a Cobbler. at 21:13:38 Thursday August 3 2000
If he was white and you shouted F-off you immigrant ,none of the dumb racists originally laughing would understand the joke.It's the racist intimation I find offensive.I agree[if its what you are saying] we can be too precious when generally dealing with black/white matters,I just think at football matches some people are easily lead on and get the impression that its ok to make monkey sounds at black players [I know,I know thats a bit extreme I'm just trying to make a point].
Anon at 21:12:43 Thursday August 3 2000
Telling any foreign player to f*ck off is racist, as is bleating at welsh people. So yeah, i reckon it should be banned.
Anon at 20:16:29 Thursday August 3 2000
If Wooter had been a white foreign player would you all be up in arms, NO! He’s not a British citizen so he is an immigrant, white or black i don’t think its any different. Telling any foreign player to fuck off might be bad but its not racist, or should we ban all fans that make barr noises at welsh supporers cos that’s just as racist!
My old mans a Cobbler. at 20:16:5 Thursday August 3 2000
Martin W,today is the cut off day and only if you E-mail it over.
new forrester at 20:10:11 Thursday August 3 2000
we reckon woody will
Pickled Judge at 19:32:52 Thursday August 3 2000
Does anyone know if Woody will be playing for Brentford on glorious 12th?
new forrester at 19:23:11 Thursday August 3 2000
Last night,REFS (MR WALTON MR WOOLMER AND MR WHITSTONE)
RUBBISH!!! DO THEY REALLY GET PAID TO DO THIS?
new forrester at 18:41:46 Thursday August 3 2000
FORRESTER'S GREAT !!!!!
BUT NO ONE HAS FORRESTER 18 IN THREE D LIKE ME
UP THE COBBLERS !!!!!!
Ray at 18:36:20 Thursday August 3 2000
Nothing has happened to the clock as far as I am aware. Why?
Ray at 18:36:9 Thursday August 3 2000
Nothing has happened to the clock as far as I am aware. Why?
MartinW at 18:31:57 Thursday August 3 2000
To kill lots of birds with one stone, does anyone know the deadline for articles for WALOC - I've lost my deadline date info.
Pickled Judge at 17:2:18 Thursday August 3 2000
Ray. What's happened to the clock?
Mystic Meg at 16:43:20 Thursday August 3 2000
Yeah, CockneyCobb..I noticed that an all!!!!
cockneycobb at 16:37:7 Thursday August 3 2000
last nights game was great! forrester ,gabbi,hargreaves,sav,all brill!!did anyone notice watfords cunning tatical plan? they had two players with number ten on!no wonder our defence was a bit lost at times! see you a week next sat.come on you cobblers!!!
OFF MY HEAD at 15:40:4 Thursday August 3 2000
JUST TO SAY THAT THE ALL TIME COBBLERS HAVE BEEN DRAWN IN GROUP A OF THE ULTIMATE CUP (TOGETHER WITH DEAD COMEDIANS XI,DEAD ROCK STARS XI & EX BLUE PETER PRESENTERS XI.THE OTHER GROUP HAS DEAD ACTORS XI,DEAD SPORTSTARS XI & COBBLERS WEIRD FANS XI)ON FIFA 2000 ON OUR BROTHERS PLAYSTATION
EMU at 15:27:38 Thursday August 3 2000
NOW THAT BASIL BRUSH HAS FOUND WORK AT YOUR STADIUM,IS THERE ANYTHING THAT I CAN DO?I'VE NOT BEEN WORKING MUCH LATELY.I HAVE A PASSING INTEREST IN FOOTBALL AND USED TO SUPPORT HULL.......OR WAS IT HULL THAT SUPPORTED ME???????
BASIL BRUSH at 15:24:0 Thursday August 3 2000
JUST A QUICK POSTING TO SAY THAT I'M ENJOYING MY NEW JOB AS STEWARD NO 17'S WIG BOOM BOOM
Mystic Meg at 15:13:39 Thursday August 3 2000
Lets talk about sommet happy!!!!
8 days to go everybody!!!!!
Vince at 14:52:27 Thursday August 3 2000
Carl, Hmmm, see what you mean. I think the writing has been on the wll since George Reynolds announced that he wouldn't be progressing with their new stadium until he was sure the builders were not ripping him off. A feel for the Darlo fans who after years of struggle must have hoped that Reynolds involvement would bring success. Shades of McRitchie without the cash?
Anon at 14:24:55 Thursday August 3 2000
http://www.insidetheweb.com/mbs.cgi/mb205412
My old mans a Cobbler. at 13:47:51 Thursday August 3 2000
Whats the site address Carl?
Carl at 12:54:28 Thursday August 3 2000
Holy smoke, you think we have problems you should take a look at Darlingtons Messageboard, damn near suicidal the lot of them. It's amazing how things have turned around in such a short space of time for them, mainly due to their 'money man' no longer wanting to shell out any of his 'hard' earned cash. Give me our situation any day of the week.
Ray at 12:28:11 Thursday August 3 2000
I dont think they can use that as an excuse. Its just a get out for when the stands are jam packed.
Dyl at 12:22:25 Thursday August 3 2000
"If it is dangerous or unwise to take action while a match is
in progress, offenders will be identified and steps taken to bar them from all future matches. " That's a quote from NTFC's anti-racism policy. If that is what they are doing, then fine.
Dyl at 12:7:1 Thursday August 3 2000
That's what I thought Pattcobb. And when they brought reinforcements over, and a chap in shirtsleves who looked like a club official I thought the bloke was going to be ejected. I'm sure he was identified, because he had a loud distinctive voice, and he shouted (non-racist) comments soon after that resulted in a steward speaking into his radio and fixing his gaze in the direction of the centre of the stand and making notes. I myself was not able to see the culprit, but was close enough to the stewards and the police to observe what they were up to. Perhaps they weren't 100% confident of a positive id, and that may be why they didn't eject him, but as far as I can tell they didn't even have words with anyone in that area. And as I say, from they way they behaved they looked to be very close to kicking him out.
Ray at 12:0:51 Thursday August 3 2000
From what I read this is a definite racism attack and I dont think it can be construed any other way. The fact that the stewards did nothing is shocking. Please make an official complaint to the club both about the comments made and the lack of action taken.
PATTCOBB at 11:59:20 Thursday August 3 2000
DYL & MOMAC. Fair enough.It was a different comment I heard and agree with you both.If as you say the stewards identified the source of the comment and heard it themselves. Surely they had grounds to throw him/her out.
My old mans a Cobbler. at 11:4:31 Thursday August 3 2000
PattCobb,as far as I am concerned you can take the pi55 out of opposing players as much as you like,in fact the more the better.Dyl tells us that a moron in the North stand racially abused a Watford player,I am taking him at his word.I am not being over protective ,Positive racism is over protective in my opinion and is not something I agree with.If the supporters comments were just banter ,thats fine,but if they were racially motivated then the matter needs to be dealt with by the stewards and club.
Dyl at 11:2:9 Thursday August 3 2000
What I heard was "F off you immigrant. You should be sent home". It was not comical and I don't believe I am being 'over protective'. Abusing opposition players in a humorous manner is part of football. Abusing players just because they are black is racism. It does not matter whether the cronies around the person making the comments think it's funny. Racism is racism whether the comments are meant with malice or meant to entertain small minded acolytes.
PATTCOBB at 10:41:11 Thursday August 3 2000
I too sat in the North Stand,close enough to see Welch tip the shot onto the bar.I have to say that I heard comments directed at Wooter,but what I heard could not be described as rascist.lets not go down this over protective road where we dare not shout comical remarks to ANY player for fear of repercussions.It is I believe part of watching the game and most players enjoy the banter.Incidently when Wooter scored in the second half did anyone see Sampson grab his hair as he ran past?Could this action be described as HAIRIST.On a lighter note I see Basil Brush has made a comeback on top of Steward 17's head............
My old mns a Cobbler. at 10:37:40 Thursday August 3 2000
Dyl,you should contact the club and make an official complaint,this sort of thing stinks.If the club never do anything about this sort of behaviour then its as good as condoning it.
Dyl at 10:11:48 Thursday August 3 2000
I thought we played well last night. Forrester was superb. Gabbi was excellent in the 1st half, started the second half well but faded. Hargreaves and Savage worked hard, and Welch pulled off some blinding saves. Sitting where I did in the North stand I was able to see that the 1st half Watford shot that hit the bar was actually turned onto the bar by Welch. He did the same again in the second half leaving a Watford player with an open goal off the rebound, what happened? Comedy moment of the game: the Watford player tried an overhead bicycle kick into the open goal and missed the target. The only bad point, and it is a bad one, was not about the playing side of the game. At one point in the second half a moron in the North Stand racially abused a Watford player. It was noticed by a steward who called in his superiors. It was also noticed by the police. The offender was clearly identified. After a conference and much mmming and aahing they did nothing. As the extra stewards who had been brought around in case the culprit was to be ejected walked back, the offending section of the crowd made a ssshh noise, highlighting the fact that they knew they had been spotted. The stewards returned the compliment, fingers to their lips. I don't know who's decision it was to do nothing, but it made a mockery of the club's anti-racism policy. I can't stand racism anywhere, and particularly don't want it cropping up in my leisure time. If this sets a pattern I despair!
PATTCOBB at 10:9:57 Thursday August 3 2000
DAVCOBBLER.....SIXFIELDS TAVERN LOOKS PROMISING
Winston Churchill Jr at 9:54:27 Thursday August 3 2000
Political quiz: My Mother.
CDU at 9:39:26 Thursday August 3 2000
Northampton Gas : NTFC DIV II MILLENNIUM CHAMPIONS and that is a realsitic and accurate prediction!! :o )
Political Quiz at 9:37:9 Thursday August 3 2000
A lady once accused Winston Churchill of being drunk, he replied "Madam, in the morning I will be sober but you will still be ugly" Who was that lady?
Irthlingborough Church Raffle at 9:32:34 Thursday August 3 2000
Draw on Sunday - First Prize ticket to watch Cobblers Reserves play Barnet. Second Prize Rushden & Diamonds Season Ticket.
Anon at 9:25:51 Thursday August 3 2000
Asking how the Cobblers will get on last season is like asking what would have happened if Kruschov had been shot instead of Kennedy. The only certain thing is that Onasis would not have married Mrs Kruschov - as far as the Cobblers are concerned the only certain thing is we won't be relegated (I hope!)
Cobbler in the West at 9:7:30 Thursday August 3 2000
Northampton Gas - We should be a top half team with the scoring power we have but an injury to either Forrester or Gabbiadini would cause us problems. My main concern is at the back where we may be a bit slow and ponderours in the centre and Hendon whilst excellent going forward showed on several occasions last seasonthat his marking at the back post is not all that it should be. The return of Howey, who is much more mobile than Green and Hunter, will be very important but that seems to be some time away since neither has featured in the pre-season friendlies. My realistic view - an outside chance for the play offs but some entertaining football will be on view.
Danny at 9:3:31 Thursday August 3 2000
Greetings from the Telford Junior Youth Football League . We would like to say hello to you and all your members and players, a very nice site and all the best in the future. Be sure to stop by our site sometime soon, say hi to us in Shropshire.(Danny)
http://www.telfordjl.oakengates.com
Northampton Gas at 8:59:42 Thursday August 3 2000
Noticed the debate on Carlo, shades of Jamie Cureton *s* that is not the point of writting. Can anyone give a realistic opion of how The Cobblers may fare this season - no will win the divsion by 20 points and get to the Cup Final. I have now watched The Gas play three games in five days and have a grim forbodding for the coming season. We have 10+ players out injured, Jason Roberts has gone to pastures new, Jamie Cureton has indicated that he would not be adverse to a move, Andy Tillson looks to be on the way to Walsall.....I reckon we will have difficulty getting into the top half of the division. So come on, how will The Cobblers get on this season.
Rob Marshall at 8:54:27 Thursday August 3 2000
to mystic meg and MartinW (and Ray) - the fanzine's e-mail address is whataloadofcobblers@hotmail.com - I put this in the last issue of the zine because with all the cheap and free offers around I have been switching ISPs more often than Man Utd change their shirt design. Adding to the debate about Carlo - no I won't cheer him either, but I don't see the point of barracking him either
Anon at 8:54:21 Thursday August 3 2000
Is it true? OLD HAT.
Anon at 8:52:37 Thursday August 3 2000
Is it true? I've heard Pele is going to coach the under elevens.
Vince at 8:45:8 Thursday August 3 2000
Is it true?, and I've heard that Gordon Brown is getting married today, whatever next, his and hers budget boxes?
Vince at 8:39:35 Thursday August 3 2000
Enjoyable game last night which dispite being a friendly was played pretty competitively. Gabbiadini was almost marked out of the game but still had a number of chances - Gabbiadini and Forrester look like being a very good partnership. Welch pulled off some good stops but the defence looked a bit lost at times, the midfield also needs a bit of tidying up but Hunt looks to be carrying on the good form from last season. Hughes also looked good when he came on in the second half and looks ready for first team football. Although you can't read too much from friendly games we seem to have a squad who have the ability to do more than just survive in Div 2 and we can look forward to plenty of entertaining football. Nice to see so many Watford supporters and a good crowd considering that the floodlit cricket match was on at the County Ground. Also nice to see Parrish and Dobson receive their medals.
Is it true ? at 8:37:13 Thursday August 3 2000
I heard a rumour, that Max Griggs is the person who is paying Marco G's fees/wages, Knights of Old are doing the same for Jamie F and Ian Wright is coming in to Manage the reserves. Have I been sold a lemon or is there any truth in this gossip?
nsb at 8:33:4 Thursday August 3 2000
TRB Mark...... they played a premier league team that year..... and we beat one..... theres the difference!
My old mans a Cobbler. at 8:25:11 Thursday August 3 2000
Thank you.
Mystic Meg at 8:21:6 Thursday August 3 2000
Well...We may have lost last nite but we WERE playing a team that were playing in the premiership last season!! There were plenty of good points...Hargreaves looks a star 'buy' and put in some great crosses, and Marco showed us a glimse of what he can do and DID NOT look out of his depth against D1 defenders let alone D2!!! Jamie was also a star as usual and i really think we have nothing to worry about!!!
Watford brought a healthy crowd for a friendly...They practically filled the south stand!!! It was nice to be back at Sixfields again though...God, Ive been SOOOO bored on Saturday afternoons!!!
Bring on the Brentford!!!!
PATTCOBB at 8:14:1 Thursday August 3 2000
lAST NIGHTS GAME.........Too much long ball,Is Atkins still our manager?What happened to 4-4-2?
My old mans a Cobbler. at 23:56:40 Wednesday August 2 2000
Come on you lot were we really that bad that you all stayed out and got bladdered .How did we perform?,what was the formation and shape of the team like?,did any individuals stand out?,quite a good crowd[considering the cricket],what sort of reception did the new lads get?,are we going to struggle this season?will the new lads gel?,etc,etc,etc.
TRB Mark at 23:34:34 Wednesday August 2 2000
I seem to remember the comments this time last year from the village idiots to the effect that we were relegated and they were promoted before last season had even kicked off. You probably havn't been bandwagon jumping for long enough R&D to realise that the season does'nt finish until April/May and not when you play a Premier league club in the FA cup or when you beat your more illustrious neighbours in a pre-season friendly.
TRB Mark at 23:30:25 Wednesday August 2 2000
Official report on tonights game;
Northampton Town went down 2-1 to Watford in their penultimate pre-season
friendly in front of 3,166 at Sixfields.
Dominic Foley headed Graham Taylor’s side in front on 10 minutes, before
Neil Cox hit the bar 3 minutes later. The Cobblers had appeals for a
penalty turned down on 16 minutes when Jamie Forrester was bundled over.
The referee awarded a free kick, which John Frain curled over, Ian Sampson
headed the ball back across goal and Jamie Forrester converted.
Watford scored the winner on 64 minutes, Nordin Wooter turning in Peter
Kennedy’s shot.
Cobblers side; Welch (sub 87 Sollitt), Hendon (sub 79 Hughes), Frain,
Sampson, Savage, Hunt, Gabbiadini (sub 75 Howard), Hope, Forrester (sub 83
Hodge), Hargreaves (sub 72 Spedding), Green.
Cobblers boss Kevin Wilson said, "It might have been a defeat, but there
were plenty of positives. We created lots of chances and looked fairly
strong. It’s August 12th that counts and with just one more friendly to go,
we can’t wait to get going."
There is a full interview with Cobblers boss Kevin Wilson reflecting on the
game on Talk Cobblers - 0906 613 0906 (calls cost 60p per min). Select
option 4 and option 1
On the pitch, before the game, Alan Colgan, an Irish striker, signed for
the Cobblers youth team after impressing in a trial spell.
Club Secretary
Northampton Town Football Club
bozeat cobbler at 23:27:3 Wednesday August 2 2000
This site is the mutznutz - roll on August 12th 3.00pm.
Lets get behind the team from the first minute - look out north stand ill be sitting there this year - bring your ear muffs.
UP THE COBBLERS
Gomez at 22:23:20 Wednesday August 2 2000
That 'certain canadian' didn't play in any of the games involving the cobblers late promotion push last season, direone. And why would I want to see a pre season friendly of some small town non-league club? Please enlighten me!
R+D at 22:16:36 Wednesday August 2 2000
If you haven't got a game on Friday you could mosey on down to Nene Park and have a look at the football on offer down the road. I'n not saying you're shit of anything but if the results so far are anything to go bye, the old Cobblers machine isn't clicking along like it was very well last season. Perhaps a certain Canadian helped you more than you could see. As always, R+D.
anon at 22:5:29 Wednesday August 2 2000
any one know tonight;s final score
Britgal at 21:52:6 Wednesday August 2 2000
cobblers 1 (18 mins Forrester) watford 2 (10 mins, 49 mins)
i'm not positve of the time of the last Watford goal, but it's near enough
Brigatel at 21:30:32 Wednesday August 2 2000
Forrester with an equaliser, goal!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
britgal at 21:19:1 Wednesday August 2 2000
watford scored again so it's now 2-1 but there's 21 mins left to score. forrester just had a shot saved so we're still in with a chance!
britgal at 21:14:16 Wednesday August 2 2000
i think it's still 1 - 1. the radio is comentating on cricet now (eugh!) so i'm not sure.
Sean from London at 21:6:55 Wednesday August 2 2000
What's the score Britgal? (or anyone else)
Is it raining hard in Northampton too?
britgal at 20:14:44 Wednesday August 2 2000
forrester was the scorer! classic!! gabbi almost scored twice
britgal at 20:11:0 Wednesday August 2 2000
1-1, according to the cricket man on radio northampton
britgal at 20:6:10 Wednesday August 2 2000
northampton 0 watford 1 damn!
britgal at 19:58:25 Wednesday August 2 2000
how the hell can u do radio commentary on cricket!! i wanna hear the football!
M at 19:48:16 Wednesday August 2 2000
IT SAYS AT THE TOP THE SEASON KICKS OFF IN 28 DAYS.......O DEAR. JUST LIKE THE NORTHAMPTON MILLENNIUM CLOCK.....
thick idiot at 19:45:56 Wednesday August 2 2000
who has carlo signed for then??????????
My old mans a Cobbler. at 19:33:14 Wednesday August 2 2000
Wish I was there.Oh well hopefully some of you will give us a run down on how the team and individual players got on,crowd and the rest.
Danny at 17:24:52 Wednesday August 2 2000
Moaning Cobbler - Will you be cheering Carlo like everyone did for Larry at Cheltenham last year and actually forget who we are supposed to be supporting? I for one will NOT cheer Carlo onto the pitch, I won't boo him either, but just like Neil Grayson, he is in the past, he has gone. COME ON COBBLERS!!!!!!
Tim_nice_but_dim at 16:47:56 Wednesday August 2 2000
Tony you will not be on your own because me and my mate are in there and we booked them in advance!!
Vince at 16:43:37 Wednesday August 2 2000
....and for kids.
Vince at 16:42:50 Wednesday August 2 2000
£10 West Stand, £8 other areas, see official news for 26 July for details including reductions fir kids etc.
pattcobb at 16:33:40 Wednesday August 2 2000
I thought it was 10 pounds all areas
Vince at 16:33:3 Wednesday August 2 2000
When I bought tickets for the East Stand (saves 2 quid a ticket, the view is just as good and you are closer to the action) most of the seats around the half way line were sold. Not sure how many tickets were sold for the North Stand but as the seats are cheaper than the West Stand and 8 quid for a friendly is more than enough I reckon the West Stand will be deserted.
Tony at 16:10:42 Wednesday August 2 2000
If I turn up tonight and buy a ticket in the North stand, am I likely to be the only person in that stand come the start of the game? I'm broke, and £2 less for a seat there sounds tempting!
PATTCOBB at 16:8:18 Wednesday August 2 2000
David Hodgson has resigned as Dallington boss.Is he interested in moving a mile up the road to Duston Barnstormers.
michael fish at 15:49:48 Wednesday August 2 2000
I'm glad you asked Mr Carl. It's sunny at the moment and quite warm.So the county should start on time at 4.10.And don't worry about them hurricane rumours.I can assure you that this is not going to happen!!!!!!!
PATTCOBB at 15:37:2 Wednesday August 2 2000
One small thing to concern us simple country folk.How old is Lord John Frain? Is it us or has he been 31 for the last 3 seasons?
Carl at 15:35:7 Wednesday August 2 2000
Well Lads and Lasses it has just started absolutely lashing down with rain down here, about 100 miles south of the mighty town, what is the weather like up there bearing in mind the sporting festivities arranged for this evening?
PATTCOBB at 15:27:59 Wednesday August 2 2000
Going into town last night , brought memories flooding back.The sight of floodlights standing sentinel over the Abington area as they were being tested.You culd almost taste the tony ansell burgers and smell the piss of the urinals,the sound of the turnstiles and the clunk of the turnstile operator pocketing " 1 every 3".The 30 Rochdale or Scunthorpe or Darlington or .Mansfield fans on the Spion Kop.The freebies walking out of the tunnel at 7.40 (7.25 for the even older ones).Parking in the street and driving straight off after the finish.Help I've gone all poetic,it must be all this waiting WHENS MY APPLIC