Cobblers Comments
October 1998

Jamie at 23:6:45 Saturday October 31 98
Leek or Lancaster! argh, I'm quaking, but no doubt the board will raise prices 60% anyway as we will becoming up against such quality oppostition (sorry they'll probably knock us out know). At least its at home

Richard Walker at 21:56:36 Saturday October 31 98
Hope that we can overcome Lancaster, and we look forward to visiting you. From all at Leek Town FC

RICHARD at 21:51:36 Saturday October 31 98
T: There's a bit of a report on the e-mail list. Apparently we played quite well, though we did the usual "let's sit back and watch them try to score" thing in the second half! According to our intrepid reporter, even Wilkinson played well! I knew it was only a matter of time!!

T. at 21:38:48 Saturday October 31 98
It's a bit quiet today, anyone go to today's match? Was it a deserved win? I see John Gayle got sent off today for Scunny

ray warburton at 20:17:26 Saturday October 31 98
stonhill out!!!!!!!!!

Ian at 18:15:3 Saturday October 31 98
A needed win today. Now that we have climbed up the table a little, I will predict that the bottom four come May will come from the current bottom five.

TRB Mark at 18:7:51 Saturday October 31 98
Cobblers win 0-1

Bob Whitworth at 15:57:52 Saturday October 31 98
The Cobblers are 1-0 up at half time (Corrazzin 18mins) away at Macclesfield!!

TRB Mark at 14:13:35 Saturday October 31 98
Told Ya! The report in today's Chron links the expansion of Sixfields with Nationwide building society. Not too many details, just that negotiations are at a tentative stage. I think they like what they see at this club and say what you like about Barry Stonhill, but if we were in a financial mess then Nationwide would'nt touch us with a barge pole. Talking of mess's, anyone see Football Focus? Poor old Chester. Sounds very reminicent on Cobblers circa 91. They might be wound up for the sake of Ł600,000 pounds, a p*ss in the wind in footballing terms. One of their complaints was that they could'nt even get Man U trainees as they expected more money than Chester's first teamers were on.

Ray at 11:7:3 Saturday October 31 98
With regard to the fees received from R&D for both H&W, it was stated by Barry Stonhill that we would not have received any better offer from elsewhere and IA backed him up on this.

Ray at 11:5:8 Saturday October 31 98
I regret that there will not be any commentay on todays match as I will be at Sixfields partying all day. I have no doubt that Stve will do his normal great job of posting snippets here as they happen. I am hopeful that future matches will ALL be braadcast live - Im currently in discussion with various interested parties.

Hartwell Cobbler at 8:53:7 Saturday October 31 98
Thanks TRB Mark for your precis of the Trust meeting. It seems to have been very useful and a credit to the club and the Trust. I hope the Stonhill boo-boys will learn a lesson from what's happened and see how their actions can only undermine confidence and hinder the club's progress. He's the last man any fan should criticise. He's done more to save and bring the club to its present status than any other single person. Over the past six years he has put his heart and soul into the Cobblers, committed valuable spare time which many people would not contemplate sacrificing, to say nothing of the financial burden and commitment he has certainly had to shoulder. I would ask one question of the boo-boys: Who have you got to replace him ? I was also pleased to see some good defence of Barry in the Chron's letter pages this week. There were, granted, some negative comments (to be expected). But several writers admirably made the case for Barry. Incidentally I noticed one writer saying the Heggs was worth Ł250k. Well, if he is worth that why hasn't anyone paid that for him ? The fact is a player's only worth what a club will pay for him. And, in Heggs case, that was not Ł250k! End of story.

Eddie K at 3:10:35 Saturday October 31 98
Ray will there be any commentary on the net for todays match?

T. at 22:58:53 Friday October 30 98
Blimey, I've only been away since Sunday and it's taken me ages to catch up on all the goss. I was 25,000 so hopefully I'll make the 50 tomorrow.

RICHARD at 22:40:16 Friday October 30 98
Many thanks to TRB Mark for the Trust Meeting low-down;and to Ray for other snippets. This info certainly sheds some much needed and appreciated light on numerous subjects which have exercised the hearts and minds of Cobblers' followers on the web and e-mail list in recent weeks. Cheers

Sid at 22:39:53 Friday October 30 98
Seal will be in the team soon, i agree with Ray. It just that IA needs to have serious words with him if Seal has an atttitude problem. When he first came, he scored 7 in 7 (or something) and you could see his confidence was high. We NEED a scorer to do that for us again!

Cobbler Down Under at 20:56:17 Friday October 30 98
Saturday morning here and at the moment its about 26 C and blue skies.The English cricketers beat some Select Eleven by one run yesterday I think D.K.Lillee may have been playing so the win has to be put into perspective!,but nevertheless 100% record so far.Good luck to the boys today knock about 8 past the idiots and set the wheels in motion for the climb to glory.Come on the Town!

Baka at 19:49:45 Friday October 30 98
TRB Mark's got a lot to say. I'm glad Warner's playing, he uses the ball well. He's quite good in my game of Championship Manager.

Steve at 19:34:1 Friday October 30 98
Since doing my 'commentary' on Tuesday I've been too busy to look at the Guest Book (busy slaving 13 hours a day prpearing for the grand opening of a magnificent new - albeit temporary - emporium in the Grosvenor Centre - plug, plug). I've just had a look at all that's been posted since Tuesday and feel I should say how gobsmacked I am at the ever increasing quality of the contributions. Nothing beats CONSTRUCTIVE debate. Fascinating report on the Trust meeting from Mark. I just love hearing the boo boys slagged off, and I'm particularly heartened by the relentless, dogged determination of the anti-racist lobby. Keep it up, and we WILL beat the racists. COME ON YOU COBBS!

Ossie at 19:8:33 Friday October 30 98
Cheers Gav. Dont look for the Jezebel as I forgot to attach her. Alas I will send her soon.

Ray at 19:0:6 Friday October 30 98
Ah yes - David Seal. This was also something discussed at the meeting last night. IA pointed out that Seal has scored 2 goals in the last 26 games he has played in, he said there was no problem with a personality clash between the two of them and as soon as Seal gets the right attitude he will be back in the side and scoring. From what he was saying I would expect Seal to reappear in the team about Feb/March and would then score on a regular basis.

Gavin at 18:27:29 Friday October 30 98
(I'll carry on shall I...) Macclesfield should be on. Radio N'hampton say it is anyway!!!! They also think Seal has played his last Cobbs game. A shame if he were to leave, especially with Wilko not performing. back to basics I reckon. We should have kept Gayle and Heggs, lethal at the start of last season with Seal as well. I blame Atkins......

Gavin at 18:22:33 Friday October 30 98
OSSIE- hope you can find the site, leave a message if you can and see you at Wycombe. Macclesfield

TRB Mark at 18:21:10 Friday October 30 98
The said people (we call them the Golightly's) led the questioning yesterday and got short shrift, esp from IA. Apparently, Barry Stonhill demanded an apology from them after Saturday's game.

Deepcut Cobbler at 17:18:37 Friday October 30 98
While you are on about the boo boys, pse remind me never to sit near the O'Callaghans or O'Shaunessys (whatever they are called) in the West Stand again. Despite their claim to fame over their unrivalled attendances at matches, they should set an example to others. Their continual booing and Stonhill out chants peppered with obscenities set a fantastic example to all the young kids within hearing. In the vicinity of Row Q Seats 170-179 are the ones to avoid.....

Sid at 14:57:42 Friday October 30 98
Only 728 to go!

Sid at 14:56:49 Friday October 30 98
Mark, (or anyone) can you give us some info about what is said in the Chron tomorrow about the "stand" and "Nationwide". Ta very much!

Sid at 14:56:26 Friday October 30 98
Mark, (or anyone) can you give us some info about what is said in the Chron tomorrow about the "stand" and "Nationwide". Ta very much!

TRB Mark at 14:35:57 Friday October 30 98
I forgot to mention the 11 year old cobblers fan who was killed crossing the road and whose funeral it is today. A minute's silence was observed before last night's meeting got underway and the cortege will pause outside the ground with the players lining up to honour him. As a Cobblers fanatic, Patrick Southwell was due to be a mascot later in the season. There will also be a minute's silence before the Wycombe game. I think this, more than anything else puts recent events at the club into perspective. Also, there is to be an announcement in tomorrow's Chron concerning the Stadium. I will hazard a guess that it involves the words "Nationwide" and "stand"

Ray at 13:46:52 Friday October 30 98
I havent heard any reports regarding the game as yet - as soon as I do I will post something.

Ray at 13:45:15 Friday October 30 98
There was no mention of IA moving elsewhere. Apparently the reason for the suit was that he had had to attand a funeral earlier. I think Mark has covered the meeting fully - I cant remember owt else apart from a brief discussion on the boo boys. Apparently they feel that paying their money entitles them to boo.

Anon at 13:45:14 Friday October 30 98
Is the Cobblers game at Macclesfield still on? I heard they have serious flooding.

Anon at 13:43:53 Friday October 30 98
Is the Macclesfield game on? I heard that the town is under water...the comments about Colin Hill arise from what Atkins said in the Chronicle the other night ("...he's not getting any younger...") and then he was subbed early on against Spurs.

Deepcut Cobbler at 13:2:20 Friday October 30 98
Thanks Mark for last nights trust meeting precis from a member unable to attend.. Was there any indication or mention of the continual reports of IA moving every time a job in the midlands comes up?? Especially the reported sighting of IA in suit during the Leicester uncertainty. Was there a reassurance that IA would only move under certain conditions. I agree with the previous comments that only Dave Bowen compares on managerial ability.

TRB Mark at 12:37:23 Friday October 30 98
I Promised that I would write a report of last nights Trust meeting. I can only really give you the gist of what happened as I have been invited to dinner on Saturday night! A normal Trust meeting probablyy (AGM apart which is in two weeks time on the 12th) pulls in between 50 and 100, depending on what is happening at the club, who the speaker is and what the weather is like. There were chairs for 150 people which were filled as was all available standing space. In other words, it was packed, and very warm! Those on the top table consisted of Barry Stonhill, Brian Lomax, Ian Atkins and Chris Smith (director) The meeting began with Brian Lomax telling everyone why the meeting had been called. It was in direct response to the slagging that Barry Stonhill got on Saturday (which almost resulted in his resignation). BL also gave an impassioned reminder to all why the Trust was in existence and that, in the light of the apparent unpopular descsion, how many other clubs would give their fans a chance to quiz those at the very top of the club. A good point acknowledged with a round of applause and to a certain extent this overview of how far the club has come (and the people largely responsible sitting in front of us) took the heat out of the situation. Not that there was a lynch mob atmosphere and the meeting was a civilised affair. Early questions were about Razor/Heggs. The line from IA was that Razor, had given his best to the team and had come as far as he was likely to and therefore a replacement was only a matter of time. Next season he would have been a squad player and we had to look forward to the next four years at what might be and not back. The club had got a good deal and Razor, without having to move house, will earn twice at Diamonds in the next 3 years to what he would at NTFC. IA also stressed that the deal was not made over his head and he and the board worked as one. There was a certain amount of finger pointing at the media for mis-representing the situation and milking it for the last ounce of emotional drama. Andy roberts denied it. One fan was particularly incensed by the fact that we had been "told" by a "smaller" club not to disclose the actual fee. This was a condition imposed by Max Griggs to prevent them being held to ransom. The example given was Fulham buying Trollope from Derby. Apparently, they were prepared to flog him for 200,000 and when Fulham enquired, were told Ł750,000, and they paid it. Look at it from the point of view of, say, Hednesford. Fulham are the Diamonds of our division and we resent the money they are splashing out on players in an attempt to buy their way out of the league. They pay over the odds for players that aren't worth it and throw petrol on the fire of transfer and wages inflation. Although Diamonds reasons are fto protect theit own interests, they are also doing other smaller clubs a favour. Many of the questions led onto another point and the massive increase in players wages was one that seemed to concern the Board. Barry Stonhill put forward the theory if someone wealthy was to join the board, and was able to put in a million quid this year, they would have to do that ad infinitum in order to maintain the status quo. And as we hadn't got a monied board, we had to look to take money for players were offer if it was right for the club, which apparently it was. It was suggested that if we were winning and hadn't had the bad luck/injuries, them the outcry wouldn't have been so great. The sale, unlike that of Barnes ect, wasn't to line the pocket of one individual, but an attempt to keep the club out of queer St. On the national scene it was claimed that 70% of the Nationwide clubs were financially "clinging on by their fingertips." This was backed up by Julie Brickett, senior Sponsorship manager from Nationwide who said that compared to alot of clubs, we were very well run and had a very good image nationally and they may lookto extend shirt sponsorship as well as other things. Gareth Wilsher, the press officer (or that was the title conferred on him by the Board, maybe a bit to early said BS) came in for alot of stick. A fan pointed out that in the short time he has been in the job we have had the Tottenham prices fiasco, The Razor /Heggs fiasco and now as reported in last nights Chron, trouble with disabled parking spaces. For those of you who haven't seen the report, a Cobblers fan with a disabled son claims that they are being forced to park further away from the ground to make way for corporate guests. The reply was that there wasn't enough spaces for all those (disabled/guests/officials) who wanted to use them. I personally would have thought that disabled supporters would have priority over everyone. The issue of racism was brought up by yours truly and had a good airing . I think, like the disabled facility issue, the club cannot be faulted for it's stance. What seems to be apparent is that this is not being implemented. The stewards are re-active rather than pro-active and as a consequence, we will never nail the racists. As someone else mentioned, if we don't stamp on it now, it will spread like a disease to the more gullible supporters. Apparently there was some racist chanting at Luton too. I think the above is enough to be going on. If you want to know anymore, Ray or myself will try and relate what was said. Everything which has been discussed in "Cobblers Comments" and the e-mail group was pretty much covered and answered. I think most people left satisfied with what they heard and the bottom line is that we have to measure where we are now to where we were 6/7 years ago.

TRB Mark at 10:57:28 Friday October 30 98
Both Ray and I went last night. I am writing a report (V. Long!) and will post it asap. Ray will fill in the bits I have missed.

Bez at 10:18:32 Friday October 30 98
Did anyone go to the meeting last night? Answering the exiled Brighton Cobbler, Atkins is planning to play a flat back four therefore one of the current three would have to be dropped. Due to Hill's lack of pace and form he would be the one dropped and not Sammo or Hodgson who are both on form.

Ray at 9:57:6 Friday October 30 98
If you order Northampton books through here you pay the same price as from the shop - and its helps these pages :-)

SBJ at 9:55:4 Friday October 30 98
Doh! Click on Sportspages' site, and search under 'Northampton' and you get all the book info anyway. Silly me.

SBJ at 9:52:8 Friday October 30 98
Nowhereman: I'm going past Sportspages this evening, so if you (or anyone else) wants to give me details of WALOC's distributors I can pass it on to the shop staff. The shop stocks a R&D monthly magazine, so why not one of ours? There are 5 or 6 different Cobblers books in there though, which is more than most clubs have. If anyone really wants me to note what they've got I can do that too & post the info here next week (might help your commission Ray). Whatever came of the Centenary video I once heard a rumour about?

Ray at 23:12:36 Thursday October 29 98
There is a pitch inspection tomorrow for Saturdays game. Watch this space.

RICHARD at 20:46:24 Thursday October 29 98
I HEARD IT ON THE RADIO AND SAW IT ON THE TV (DOES THAT STILL COUNT?): Not being able to get to the game on Tuesday, I had to rely on Radio 5 Live and ITV highlights later that night. On paper, with GG doing the decent thing in fielding a full strength side (barring injuries), we were going to be on the wrong end of a sound stuffing according to the gulf in status and class. However, the lads showed their mettle again in attrocious conditions which favoured no side. It did, to be honest, sound like one way traffic for long periods of the game; whenever we gained possession, we seemed to give it back quite quickly. There were some pulse-quickening moments though, both defensively and in attack. Listening is so much more difficult than watching 'in the flesh'! Your mind pictures all sorts of things which, with the benefit of televised highlights, were totally off the mark. I could have sworn from the radio description that our opener from 'Super' was an own goal. But the highlights proved it was a stunning piece of intuitive play from Sean. At that point I was already playing the draw for the nexr round in my head and funnily enough, I had us away to Liverpool or Man Utd! With Woody performing in W.Ham vein again, and the whole team getting behind the ball, I could really see the upset on the cards. But, it was not to be. Hopefully, the cash (after wages, more injury replacements and programme reductions) will go some way to alleviating the financial imbalance. Certainly, the additional experience against top class opposition will stand the players in good stead for the more important relegation battle to come. On the night, the introduction of Warner was a much anticipated event. In the 20 minutes he was given to strut his stuff, the radio commentary referred to his two shots on goal and his beating two players in the build up to another Cobblers' attack. Has his time finally come? Are we shortly to see him in the starting line-up? Is IA's preferred 4-4-2 to be unveiled soon? All these things and more, will be revealed on Saturday v. the Silkmen. SUPPORT THE LADS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

anon at 20:6:58 Thursday October 29 98
the guy in seat 49 h in the north stand started the " gas the etc" chant on tuesday night

Nowhereman at 16:48:31 Thursday October 29 98
I notice you have a sponsor of sportspages, I regularly used to purchase Waloc from their shop on charing cross road, london, but haven't seen it there for months, if anyone has any influence can they have a word. Cheers (:#)

Hartwell Cobbler at 15:0:54 Thursday October 29 98
Bob - I can hardly believe the Cobblers - and Brian Lomax in particular - would turn a blind eye to any form of racism. Suggest you write to Barry Stonill - and make the point that to date you've had no satisfactory answer and that, if nothing is forthcoming, you would feel it important enough to contact the media. After all the club is supposed to be at the forefront of the "Kick Racism out of Football" campaign. I've been fortunate in not having heard racist remarks or chants at Sixfields. But if I were to, I would most certainly take it all the way. It really can't be allowed to continue. Trouble is, if a few idiots get away with it, the problem (like any disease) may well spread.

Ray at 13:55:51 Thursday October 29 98
Whats up with the Christmas Cards Mark? Why have they been relegated in status? Whats happening?

Ray T. at 12:56:45 Thursday October 29 98
I went to the Preston N. E. game. Ace. It was kinda weird without Ray 'n' Heggs. At the own goal, my uncle says Razor woulda cleared it. Ok, so he'd actually be recovering from his operation at the time but..it's the principle of the thing, you know?!

Exiled Brighton Cobbler at 10:49:32 Thursday October 29 98
Can anyone shed any light on comments made earlier regarding Colin Hills possible departure from the club ????

Bob at 10:33:15 Thursday October 29 98
I have duly complained about the racism to Martin Girvan - stadium Manager - who seemed to deny that anyone had ever complained before. However, when reading WALOC, I read that Brian Lomax is fully aware of problems - I therefore conclude that despite warnings nothing has been done by either the club or the stadium management and it would appear to me that neither the club nor the stadium is too bothered about the problem. Why ? If anyone goes to the Trust meeting tonight I would appreciate the issue being raised because I am unfortunately outside of Northampton. Thanks.

Bez at 10:21:58 Thursday October 29 98
Mark- Cheers for saving me from writing the details as I think you wrote it better than I could. I don't know if I wil attend the meeting tonight but anyone who does go could you ask How much Ray and Carl cost, also for a broken down financial insight into why our budget was so desperately OTT and finally Why they chose to do this at a point when we have had the worst injury crisis in 20 years. Oh yeah, this is for everyone here, We have a massive injury crisis. Could the reason for this be over work? It seems that the new signings are saying that they have been working harder than ever before, and then they get injured. I can relate to this after I hard played hard for 12 months and then an inocous challenge gave me a stres fracture to the leg. The doctor said if I had given my legs a few weeks over the summer to recover it would never have happened. Do you think this overworking is the reason for our massive injury problems?

Ray at 9:16:5 Thursday October 29 98
999 to go!

TRB Mark at 9:12:45 Thursday October 29 98
So, it would have been Liverpool, had we beat Spurs!

Ray at 9:11:12 Thursday October 29 98
Listening to Barry Stonhill's comments on Radio Nuthampton this morning, he gave a very reasoned explanation of the Warburton/Heggs affair. He said, Hegg's agent had heard that offers had been made for him and he wanted to talk to the clubs concerned, the best deal was offered by R&D who, apparently, said both or none, the fee has not been disclosed at the insistence of R&D, both players went for considerably increased wages which the Cobblers would never be able to afford. He also said that the players "bill" for last season was budgeted at Ł900K and finished at Ł1.2M, the budget this year was set at Ł1.2 and was likely to have finished up at Ł1.6/Ł1.7M. I'm going to try to make the meeting tonight but I suspect nothing new will be heard on this matter. Given the chance the matter of racist abuse should I think be given greater priority.

The Oxford Cobbler at 8:56:23 Thursday October 29 98
Shame about the result on Tuesday. Shame also that the racist taunts have increased. It is time to take action. I urge all those who heard or saw racist behaviour to write to the club. Believe me i have sent a copy of an article that i have written for WALOC this morning. These people appear to have no shame. You don't need to single them out but the more people who complain the better. To Ralph, no i don't own the shop in the covered market but i know which one you mean. I considered having my photo taken under the sign though (what a sad git i am).

RICHARD at 0:35:35 Thursday October 29 98
IK'CIWT: (PNE) I awoke on Saturday morning with an uneasy feeling as I drew back the curtains to let the new day in. Something wasn't right. Rain was coming down like stair-rods; the patio door would be leaking again; the dog would need walking. But that wasn't it. The night before I had shaved off my moustache for the first time in 20 years; my top lip shivered at the onslaught of the fresh morning air. It was not a pretty sight in the shaving mirror, but that wasn't it, either! The lad, Christopher, and I set off at the usual time, 12 noon. It takes 2 hours to reach Sixfields, leaving us time to wander around and soak up the atmosphere. The weather was still foul but the roads were not congested and we were making good progress until ------ J21A M25. Traffic ground to a halt. It was 1:17pm; another 50 miles in about 45 minutes, barring a long delay, I thought!!!!!!!!! That was it, the uneasy feeling earlier; we've never missed the start of a Cobblers' game. And today of all days; I'd brought my tape recorder to capture the atmosphere, and we miss the first quarter of the game and a goal to boot. Well, to cut a long story short, it took us another 2 hours and 5 minutes to reach our seats, which were filled with water from the horizontal rain! Twenty two minutes gone and we'd caught the early score on Radio 5 Live, but not the circumstances. I had to ask: Was it a stunning long range drive , a neat passage of intricate play culminating in a net-busting volley from close range? No,it was Colin Hill floating one past Woody just for the hell of it! Can we not play him up front for the first 10 mins, to avoid further chapters in the Cobblers' "How To Shoot Yourself In The Foot" manual? By all accounts, PNE had dominated the first 15 mins following the soul-destroying and pathetic chantinf of so-called fans trying to bring down the board, and only succeeding in affecting the players. However from the moment we splashed down in our seats, I could only see one team in it - US. It was fantastic entertainment again at Sixfields.The league table was turned on its head. Lofty Moilanen was performing spectacular acrobatics to keep out a stunning drive from Carlo. He had another great game - the same CC who had received so much abuse from the short-sighted, pea-brained, self-opinionated biggots who think they know it all, tactics , team selection, and who to buy or sell! Dougie is also proving a valuable asset and although Razor will not be forgotten, at least Hodgo's play will help to alleviate the pain! The pitch was a bit of a lottery, but I would have been less than pleased finally to have got there only fot he game to be abandonned. The tide (no pun intended) is definitely turning. The sea-change (OK pun intended)for me was the Woody kick from the back pass which went straight to their forward who, from a few yards out slipped it past the post. We would have been dead in the water (Sorry, enough of the puns). We dropped another place in the table and those above us seem to be opening up a gap and getting the results, but string a few good results together ourselves and we'll be laughing, or at least safe in mid-table. Enough of the Preston game, what about the Spurs game. Another stout performance and some interesting talking points. I'll be back!!

TRB Mark at 19:19:51 Wednesday October 28 98
Blimey, don't look at Cobblers Comments for 5 minutes and there are a million messages! First off, Ray, I visit the Pooh web site to wind the buggers up! On the Razor/Heggs saga, Hodgson looked very capable of filling Razor's boots last night. I think the questions aimed at Barry Stonhill should be about what the club intend to do about tha facists in the North Stand, rather than the transfer saga. I heard the reference about Jews and thought I was hearing things. Like the Oxford Cobbler, I reported the monkey noises to the Stewards and the police. When Sol Campbell came over to the North stand goal for a drink, he got loads of abuse and again I thoght I heard monkey noises. At games end, he had his arm around Freestone and was talking and pointing into the North Stand. I bet he was saying "How do you put up with the racist scum?" I hope to go to the meeting, so I will post a report. To save Bez the hassle, as I am in writing mode, the 11 year old lad was killed crossing Harlestone road in Town. He was a season ticket holder and will be buried in a Cobblers shirt. The home game V Wycombe will be preceeded by a minute's silence. He was going to be a mascot later in the season. Even though I have a 11 year old, Cobblers supporting stepson (who has also been a mascot) I can only begin to imagine how his parents ar feeling. Now that my Christmas card has been relegated in status, I can inform you all that they should be delivered to me on November 11th and will be on sale at the Trust AGM on the 12th. Well done though Ray, I heartily recommend Sportspages and for those of you in London, it's just off T- T- T Tottenham Court Road in a little row of shops called Caxton Mews Now did I miss anything out............

Chicago Cobbler at 16:27:49 Wednesday October 28 98
Bez, For those of us who are remote, plz recount the story of the 11 year old's passing. THX, CC

Ray at 15:51:36 Wednesday October 28 98
Those regulars among you will notice a change in the top of the page. Sportspages pay me commission on all sales - and they have an extensive range - including Cobblers Books. Get your Christmas Sports books now!

Thomas at 15:16:15 Wednesday October 28 98
The weather was appauling but at sixfields, Cobblers took on Spurs. Sean Parrish's goal was one for the Cobblers scrap book. We need to mark people in the area as Chris Amstrong had 2 or 3 free headers with nobody marking him. Woody shouldn'd of come for the punch because we had a defender on him. I think we should play with 4-3-3 because two wasn't enough in midfield. They should not of conceeded 3 with five in defence and their 2 strickers. Ian Atkins shouldn't buy people when they are going to play for the reserves. They played really well. Well done for at least getting one goal. Thomas

Chicago Cobbler at 15:14:35 Wednesday October 28 98
Ray congrats on finding a sponsor to advertise!

Thomas Chapman at 15:9:49 Wednesday October 28 98
The weather was appauling but at sixfields, Cobblers took on Spurs. Sean Parrish's goal was one for the Cobblers scrap book. We need to mark people in the area as Chris Amstrong had 2 or 3 free headers with nobody marking him. Woody shouldn'd of come for the punch because we had a defender on him. I think we should play with 4-3-3 because two wasn't enough in midfield. They should not of conceeded 3 with five in defence and their 2 strickers. Ian Atkins shouldn't buy people when they are going to play for the reserves. They played really well. Well done for at least getting one goal. Thomas

SBJ at 13:55:40 Wednesday October 28 98
Rushed home from my welsh class to find my Spurs flatmate looking dejected because we were 1-0 up. had to follow the rest of the match on Capital Gold (stupid Jonathan Pearce - as the Carlton TV highlights showed later he was wrong oh so many times). Anyway, looked like the lads gave their best, and it sounds like all of you who were there thought we did ourselves proud as a team. So that's all we could ask - the win would have been icing on what seems to have been a darned good cake. On we go with the league, the FA Cup, the AWT, and future success no doubt. Sad to hear the news about Seal's situation - hopefully he won't be our next loss. In echo of Ralph, could someone who attends the meeting on Thursday give us who can't an overview of the proceedings? Someone mention the fantastic interest and information forum we have going on the website, just to let all the staff know we're out here rooting for the club. well done Cobblers, hard luck in the end, and now on we go!

Jim at 12:45:22 Wednesday October 28 98
In response to the 'Northampton, We'll support you ever more' song (Steve at 20:15:56 Tuesday October 27 98), we still sing it at Northern Ireland games, though obviously it's Northern Ireland, not Northampton. Hard luck last night, by the way. At 1-0, I thought you were going to do it.

lincoln Cobbler at 12:19:57 Wednesday October 28 98
G U T T E D (i had to put up with live comentary - i almost cried when parrish scored. I thought that we were going to beat them. That goal just after half time was that nail in the coffin for me). My pet hate is being nice to spurs fans (yeah great game mate - they were the better team on the night and all that.

Bez at 12:18:58 Wednesday October 28 98
Well done last night Cobblers, you were great, it was a joy to watch Parrish's lob. What a finish and as Big Ron said 'What a nomination!'. Great penalty save Woody from that French bagette, it made my evening. And Iversen rounding everyone shooting and it getting stuck on the line. How funny? Mickey Wanrer was superb when he came on and really scared the Spurs, hard luck Carlo and Hodgson late on with the flick and the header. On a better night we'd have nicked that one. It was just frustrating at times we gave Ginola, Armstrong, Iversen and Anderton too much respect. I tell you if we'd hammered Ginola and Anderton in the first 5 minutes they wouldn't have wanted to see the ball for the rest of the game. Oh well, these things happen. On to Macclesfield on Saturday. 3 points essential, lets hope the game last night gave us confidence as it should. Payer ratings Woody 7, Gibb 7, Frain 8, Hodgson 8, Sammo 7, Hill 6, Hunt 7, Parrish 8, Wilkinson 6, Freestone 8, Corazzin 7 Subs: Witter 6, Warner 7. Dont you find Wilko slightly frustrating, 10 games and 0 goals?

THE ANGRY COBBLER at 11:54:58 Wednesday October 28 98
Team for Saturday: (4-4-2) Woodman, Hill, Frain, Sammo(c), Hodgson, Hunt, Gibb, Warner, Freestone, Corrazzin, Parrish. Subs: Lee, Witter and Morrow. I think if we play like we did yesterday, a comfortable 4-0 win will be ours. COME ON TOWN!

Hartwell Cobbler at 11:41:45 Wednesday October 28 98
Bob - I suggest you report the racist incidents last night direct to the club. This cannot be allowed to continue. After all we are in the vanguard of the movement to kick racism out of sport. Ralph - are you going somewhere warm ? If so, can you bring some back with you ? I am going to try to get to the Trust meeting. Providing I make it I would be happy to report briefly on the salient points. But I may not get there due, as they say, to circumstances beyond my control (ie the wife!).

Bob at 10:50:3 Wednesday October 28 98
fantastic game last night - hats off to the Cobblers, who with a bit of luck and without a law book stating there is one rule for The Premiership and one for the rest (What about when Freestone was clean through and Campbell swiped across his face with his arm - Poll just played on - unbelievable)could have won. Delight to see Warner on action - this lad is a different class - god knows why he has not got pi**ed off and left us - he has been wasting away in our reserves for too long. Come on IA - Give him a chance. I also noticed that he won more headers in 20 minutes than Wilkinson did all game - get rid of him IA and we can save some money. On a sadder note my enjoyment was partly spoilt by the racist scum who sit in rows H and I , behind the goal at The North Stand. I am no kill joy but when one bloke is constantly shouting "Gas all Jews" surely the stewards should act - but no action was taken - the morons were allowed to spout filth for several minutes, within earshot of several stewards, yet nothing was done. It saddens me that these creatures pretend to support The Cobblers . I thought monkey noises had dissapeared years ago - What must the likes of Fresstone and Witter think of us in The North Stand. Sorry to end on such a negative note.

Ralph at 10:43:29 Wednesday October 28 98
Ray - I'm off for a couple of days, so I wont make it to the meeting tomorrow. Any chance of reporting questions and answers? You are a love.

Hartwell Cobbler at 10:27:54 Wednesday October 28 98
Great game last night and although we were beaten by a more talented team we gave a very good account of ourselves. I agree with Jacks - Freestone's commitment and attitude was a joy to behold and Atkins must now put aside any prejudices he has and play Michael Warner. We hardly ever see him but when we do, he always looks class. We've got plenty of hustlers and runners. What the team needs is an injection of skill and class. Warner, for one, is able to fill this void. IA must revert to a flat back four, push Gibb up, with Warner wide on the left. That gives us wing play from both sides, an option sorely missing from our game. In turn, this should enable us to get in more crosses from the byline. We also have the players (when everyone's fit) to play the ball from the back, which will also enable the midfield to give and go with the front men, creating further chances. The time has come to bury the long ball game. Don't get me wrong - there's nothing wrong with a 50 yard PASS (Spurs did it on numerous occasions last night). But just humping the ball upfield is a game we can no longer play. We don't have the individuals like Gayle and, anyway, clubs in this division and above can handle it without too much difficulty. So, a great game and occasion last night, which should clearly point the way to positive changes in personnel and tactics. Is IA in tune with this ? Or will he continue in the old ways which, like the dinosaur, are bound for extinction. On a different note - I received a letter this morning from Barry Stonhill. He was, I can assure everyone, very, very upset by the attacks on him from the midnless minority last Sat. In fact we very nearly lost our Chairman because of it. Barry hopes that one day the full facts behind the affair will come out - but he categorically states IT WAS NOT A BOARD DECISION. Maybe Thursday's open Trust meeting will shed more light on the case. I hope the facts can be made public so we can then move on to more positive issues - including the pressing need for league points, starting at Macclesfield on Sat.

Cobbler Down Under at 9:56:17 Wednesday October 28 98
Ray, thanks for the effort to get the commentry on for us.To the mindless twat who obviously reads these pages because he/she knew the machine was vulnerable as you were at the match,get a life some of us appreciate the work others do for us.To Steve,said it already but thanks for your work it means a lot to those of us who have no other means of involvement.I don't know whether it's unconditional love or whatever but I still can't believe we lost to a team like Spurs who are nowhere near the team the Cobbs are!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Tor Aage Braathen at 7:49:34 Wednesday October 28 98
I was happy to see that the Cobblers scored first. Espen Baardsen are one of the best goalies from Norway. He have also earned one match with the Norwegian squad, and are the first choise with the U21 team. Then again I am also glad that when Spurs won, my other fellow countryman Iversen did not score (also one cap for Norway, and a regular with U21). It would have been hard for me if a Norwegian sent the Cobblers out.

Jacks at 0:46:45 Wednesday October 28 98
What a fantastic match.......Michael Warner was great....but FREESTONE - he must have covered (or swam) every inch of the pitch! - we are going to be FINE in the league......hmmmmmm interesting that Seal didn't even make the bench. Thought everyone was fantastic and I am very gad that Wilko didn't get a bashing today (not anywhere near where I was sitting anyway). He must be getting a bit dejected with the situation. Anyway - brilliant lads..........roll on the rest of the season....here we come

Jugger (Stokie) at 23:35:39 Tuesday October 27 98
Eye up Cobblers! Congrats on what by all accounts was a spirited performance against the Cockney W*nkers. Well done to Woodie for foiling the penalty attempt by the French ponce.

Ray at 23:26:47 Tuesday October 27 98
Many thanks to the ****** that tried to hack my machine and therefore killed the real audio transmission in mid stride!

Steve at 22:13:16 Tuesday October 27 98
Thanks for the kind comments. I'm not sure how coherently my ramblings come across. The trouble is, my computer is so antiquated, it takes at least 90 seconds to update the screen when I click 'Okay' below. So - I have to decide when to break off each period of ramble. Anyway, it makes the time whizz by and makes me feel important, so that's O.K. isn't it. Back to the serious stuff. Luton have done what the Cobbs should've done, and beaten premiership opposition. They beat Coventry 2-0. The kids are just coming in through the front door. Now I'll hear what really happened (4 simultaneously expressed, contradicting views)!

Cobbler Down Under at 21:56:43 Tuesday October 27 98
Once again Steve thanks for allowing me to share the match with the rest of you over there,commentry was great.To the boys once again win,lose or draw you have done us proud!,you are the best now,then and for evermore.The spirit of the Cobblers has once again shown WHOEVER comes and takes us on no matter what division they are in if they want to win they have to beat us.I have us down for a 7-0 win on Sat in the tipping comp!!!! Whilst all of you are on your way to the boozer to drown sorrows and reflect on what might have been I head off to work stinking of beer oh well it was for medicinal purposes.Geez I hate f###ing Spurs!

Adie in Canada at 21:50:51 Tuesday October 27 98
Steve.Cheers for the excellent commentary.Shame about the score though.

Robert at 21:50:26 Tuesday October 27 98
So it looks as if Seal is finished at Sixfields. Who is Atkins going to drive out of the club now??

Steve at 21:43:35 Tuesday October 27 98
5 minutes left. Gibb crosses to the back post. Eventually the ball is cleared but only to Witter, who pumps it back in. Nothing comes of it. Hodgson playing very impressively at the back, giving Iverson no space. He's fitting in excellently. Didn't we used to have a defender called Ray Winterbottom or something? Warner goes round 2 men. Gives it to Gibb, but Campbell shows his England class and tackles superbly. Rory Allen replaces Armstrong and Clemence replaces Ginola. Gibb wins a corner. Frain takes it ........ Cobblers have 2 efforts cleared off the line seconds apart. Oh so close! Brilliant fighting stuff from the Cobbs as the match draws to a close. 2 minutes of added time. Parrish to Frain across to Freestone. Hodgson strides forward - has a shot. Corner. Warner takes it. Neilson clears. That's it. The final whistle. 3-1 to Spurs. Time for another tin of Boddies. Let's see if IA can organise some post match entertainment in the tunnel. Here's a bit of news. Forest who were 3-0 up against Cambridge are now drawing 3-3 with 20 minutes left and only have 10 men on the field.

Cobbler Down Under at 21:38:7 Tuesday October 27 98
Steve youre capturing the spirit of the match beautifully I know because the wife just told me to shut up!!,and the kids just asked what "OH F###K" meant.Oooops naughty Cobbler Down Under.

Steve at 21:32:40 Tuesday October 27 98
Great attacking play by the Cobbs. Inspired by Warner, they're playing some wonderful football 2 shots by Warner just miss. Is Warner staking a claim for a permanent place? Freestone's into the area. Corner to the Cobblers. COME ON BOYS !!!!! The ball is cleared up to Ginola, round Gibb, round Parrish - to Neilson. Anderton crosses.Oh no .... a goal from Armstrong headed in under presure. That's 3-1 to Spurs and almost certainly bye bye to the Worthington Cup. That leaves us with only 3 more more chances to reach Wembley this season.

Cobbler Down Under at 21:29:43 Tuesday October 27 98
Come on boys!!

Steve at 21:26:31 Tuesday October 27 98
Attendance 7,422. Corazzin attacks brilliantly - to Parrish shoots - deflection for a corner. That's more like it. Corner comes to nothing. Warner doing well in midfield. Cobblers looking brighter now. Come on Cobbs. 13 minutes to go. Hunt collects the ball. Hodgson to Gibb. Ball too strong and goes out. Frain inside the Spurs half, robbed by Neilson. Spurs attacking. Hodgson clears to Freestone who tries to round Campbell, who is surprisingly a bit too good for him. Ginola into the area. Goes down. Penalty to Spurs. Ali Gibb fouled him, but Ginola made a real meal of it. Here we go. Ginola to take it .................WODDIE SAVES !!!!!!! Great smother.

Steve at 21:19:24 Tuesday October 27 98
Still Spurs piling it on. Ginola running the show. Hunt to Gibb. Gibb rounds one man but fouls Edinburgh. Spurs well on top, with the Cobbs trying valiantly but making no impression. There's a view that the Cobblers are knackered after Saturday's tough game in the mud against the Preston, but it should be just the same for Spurs. Half way throught he second half it's still 2-1 to Spurs with the Cobbs seemingly incapable of making an impression. Ginola round Gibb - cross to the far post ..... well cleared over the cross bar by Frain. Corner to Spurs. Ginola - Neilson head but it trickles wide of the post. Now here's a surprise. Michael Warner is coming on !!!!!!! He's replacing Wilkinson, which means Corazzin is joining Freestone up front.

Serial at 21:11:53 Tuesday October 27 98
You're surprised Witter's on the bench ? What about Kevin Wilson ? Where did he come from ? Cobbs seem to be clinging on a bit. If they can hang on for a bit longer, they must still be in with a shout.

Cobbler Down Under at 21:11:47 Tuesday October 27 98
No one can fluff like the Mighty Ones!! Come on the Town I know its only 7.00am here at the moment but f###k it I need an ale its all too much to bear!!Wembley here we come.

Steve at 21:11:42 Tuesday October 27 98
Free kick to Spurs just outside the area. Ginola ...... deflection. Phew! Into the arms of Woodman. Interesting news from the bench. Chritian Lee and Tony Witter are warming up. Colin Hill comes off. Witter replaces him. We've gone to a flat back four with Ali Gibb moving up. Cobblers attack. Corazzin in the area - goes down. Penalty? No. Corazzin was diving. Lucky not to be booked. Corner to Spurs. Ginola .... Wilkinson heads out for another corner. Ginola crosses. Woodie loses it ...... Sol Campbell outside the area. Plenty of Spurs pressure. Campbell heads ...... palmed away by Woodman. Ginola rounds Gibb. Cobblers back on their heels. Another attack. A good challenge by Witter.

Steve at 21:4:47 Tuesday October 27 98
Spurs turning the screw, with Ginola causing havoc down the left. Another corner. Ginola - Calderwood wide. Goal kick. The Cobblers have to get a grip, survive this pressure and then bring on John Gayle. What am I saying? Hodgson good tackle. Gibb forward to Freestone, to Wilkinson - nothing. Bardsen boots the ball up. Ian Clarkson reckons he's spotted a couple of weaknesses in the Spurs side. Down the flanks and in the middle. Mmmmm, sounds pretty comprehensive. I anticipate a 5-2 victory for the Cobbs. Cobblers doing better now. Long throw from Ali Gibb. Campbell slices the clearance for a corner. Come on Cobbs. Ali Gibb - ineffective low corner comes to nothin. At the other end Iverson nearly scores, but Woodman saves. Nearside throw to the Cobbs. Freekick to the Cobbs on the edge of the area. COME ON JOHN FRAIN! Oh no Gibb took it and fluffed it totally. 11 minutes gone in the second half.

Cobbler Down Under at 21:0:24 Tuesday October 27 98
Oh Shit!

Steve at 20:56:43 Tuesday October 27 98
I see my speeling has gone to pot. That's the excitement for you. Spurs attacking. Ginola against Gibb - to Anderton to Carr to Armstrong who crosses ..... to Iverson....... ooh narrow miss. Corner to Spurs. Ginola takes it. Disaster. The ball falls to Campbell who scores! Oh dear. not the start we wanted. 2-1 to Spurs.

Steve at 20:51:18 Tuesday October 27 98
G'day Cobbler Down Under. Good to hear from you. BBc Northampton are entertaining us at half time with Gloria Gaynor's 'I Will Survive'. An unnecassarily defensive sentiment in my view. Now we're being given a blow by blow account of the Kick the Ball into the Back of a Rover Competition. I think I'll do you all a favour and skip it. The general feeling is that the Cobblers are not just battling, but also playing some good football. I've never understood why we played with so little heart last season in the FA Cup 3rd round against Leicester. Still they're making up for it this season. General agreement that Parrish is first half Man of the Match. Time for the re-start. Come on Cobbs!

Steve at 20:40:58 Tuesday October 27 98
Hello Serial. Thanks for the subs info. I'm surprised to hear that Witter is on the bench. I'd read that he'd signed for Welwyn. Unsurprisingly the Cobblers are sending lots of long balls up for Wilkinson who seems to be able to do little other than produce subtle flicks, but it can't be easy for him. Sammo is playing very solidly, as are all the defenders. Good work by Frain across to Gibb. Corazzin caught offside. Scales to Armstrong to Ginola. Good work by Gibb in taking it off him. Parrish to Hill. Neat football from the Cobblers as injury time approaches. Long shot from Anderton. Useless. Ginola and Anderton very quiet. Perhaps they don't fancy staying at Spurs. This is the kind of game that Graham will really be looking at his players to impress him with effort. Just to remind the uninitiated, if it's a draw after 90 minutes, there will be extra time followed by penalties. The half time whistle goes, and it's been a great performance from the Cobbs in all departments.

Cobbler Down Under at 20:39:8 Tuesday October 27 98
I can't get onto the Real Audio either but the domestic commentry is great!,thanks Steve.Come on the Town,"Go you good thing go"

Steve at 20:31:48 Tuesday October 27 98
GREAT STUFF COBBS! Ian - I'm touched that I'm your last resort! The Cobblers are doing very well. What a great way for Parrish to re-discover his scoring touch! If it's still 1-0 with 20 minutes to go I shall be emotionally incapable, so don't expect anything coherent. Gibb has the ball - a poor cross. Th ref is having another go at Atkins, who seems to be a trifle hard of hearing in his old age. Spurs attack. Iverson crosses - cleared. Ginola beats 2 men, crosses. Cleared by Hodgson. Spurs have plenty of possession. Calderwood to Neilson. Carr is offside. Ref plays the advantage. Throw to the Cobbs. Hodgson takes it. To Wilkinson who flicks it to Corrazin. Round Scales, but it goes for a goal kick. It's still raining. Cross from Carr. Oh no. Spurs have scored! Andy Woodman made a hash of a punch to to Armstrong. He blocked the first effort brilliantly, but Armstrong put it in. Cobblers 1 Spurs 1. No that bad really is it?

serial at 20:29:24 Tuesday October 27 98
Subs are Turley, Lee, Witter, Wilson & Warner. Seal wasn't needed, and was seen stomping out of the ground, presumably just after the teamsheet was pinned up.

Ian at 20:28:43 Tuesday October 27 98
No, it is hard to believe! Maybe this will give Parrish's confidence a needed boost. There will be Premier teams that don't score against Spurs this season, like Newcastle with Shearer. Come On You Cobblers!

Steve at 20:21:39 Tuesday October 27 98
Having a very poor attention span I've switched to 5 live. After all it's not often you get the Cobbs on national radio. Might as well milk it. Hi Ian. Good to hear you. How dare they! They've switched to some Scottish match. Back to Radio Northampton. Free kick to the Cobbs 30 yards out. Corazzin shoots. It's blocked. Frain ...... Sol Campbell blocks it. Hunt to Frain. Wilkinson - Corazzin. The COBBL;ERS HAVE SCORED!!!!!!!! PARISH FROM OUTSIDE THE AREA HAS LOBBED THE GOALIE FROM 25 YARDS OUT !!!! CAN YOU BELIEVE IT?

Ian at 20:20:59 Tuesday October 27 98
Just tried unsuccessfully to connect to the broadcast, maybe all the spots are taken. So I'm with you for the rest of the game Steve.

Steve at 20:15:56 Tuesday October 27 98
Hello Anon. How are you doin'? You've given me a dilemma. Shall I turn over to 5 Live? Naaah! Ian Clarkson knocks spots of Lawrenson (or whoever it is) as an 'expert' commentor. The crowd are singing 'Northampton, Northampton, we'll support you ever more! We'll support you ever more!' to the strains of Bread of Heaven. I haven't heard that for years, or am I wrong? Is it still a regular chant. Ginola causing chaos on the right. Plenty of Spurs pressure. Cobblers throw. Graham Poll, the Ref, has had a 'quiet word' with Atkins and Wilson about abuse from the bench. That's odd. They don't seem to have heard him. Good tackle from Dougie Hodgson. Trouble is - he's managed to knacker John Frain. Not another injury? No - Frain's O.K. Anon - back to your question. I'm not sure who the subs are. The Chron suggested new Wunderkind from the youth team Andy Morrow would be on the bench. He's not even played for the reserves. What a debut that would be. Free kick from Ginola. Armstrong ... misses an open goal! A very lucky escape for the Cobbs. 23 minutes gone. Gibb down the right, crosses to Crrazin .... Bardsen gets it. Time for a gulp of Boddingtons.

Ian at 20:8:48 Tuesday October 27 98
Yes Steve, I'm here for a while. I'm going to try real audio but I will be in class and relying on you for the second half.

Steve at 20:5:54 Tuesday October 27 98
Iverson shoots ..... just over! A confident start by the premiership team. But the Cobblers fighting back well. Anderton fouls Frain. The free kick comes to nothing. I suppose most of you are following this on the Real Audio thingy - such techno advancements are beyond me, so being an old fashioned Luddite, I'm doing things this way. Ian from canada are you there? Are you teaching? If so - it's time to let your students get on by themselves. You should be tuning into this. The teams are (I think) Woodman, Frain, Sampson, Hodgson, Hill, Gibb, Parrish, Hunt, Corrazin, Freestone, Wilkinson. Great shot from Ginola - just misses. Spurs looking strong and doing most of the attacking. 12 minutes gone. Parrish to Frain to Parrish, pumps the ball in, headed out by Campbell. Carr to Scales to Iverson. Hunt intercepts to Frain, who plays it long. Frain again crosses to Wilkinson ........ Ali Gibb crosses, almost finds Corrazin, to Parrish. Great attack by the Cobblers. The fans love seeing Gibb leave Ginola on his backside.

Anon at 20:5:46 Tuesday October 27 98
The game is on Radio five Live as the commenttary game. Stev who are the subs

Steve at 19:55:46 Tuesday October 27 98
Evening all. Here begins this evenings commentary for arguably the Cobblers' biggest match ever at Sixfields (Bristol Rovers and Cardiff aside). The missus and the 4 kids are all there. Is there no justice? I'm guided this evening by Tim Oglethorpe of BBC Northampton aided by the dulcit Brummie tones of Ian Clarkson. Thank goodness conditions are dreadful with buckets of rain having soddened the pitch. Am I really hearing this? Ginola - Campbell - Anderton - ? Big big na,mes all gracing the Sixfields turf? KICK OFF. Cobblers holding their own for the first 5 minutes.

Ralph at 18:14:14 Tuesday October 27 98
Ray and Hartwell Cobbler - I rest my case you name Dave Bowen and that makes Ian Atkins 'second best boss'. No disgrace coming second to Dave Bowen.

Ralph at 18:12:20 Tuesday October 27 98
Well done Oxford Cobbler for making a stand, but where are the stewards when all this is going on? During the West Ham reserve match one steward found time to go round and ask numerous people to take their feet off the seats. What about the real stuff Pall Mall or whoever you are now! By the way Oxford Cobbler is that your shop in the covered market in Oxford?

ray at 18:1:18 Tuesday October 27 98
Point your Real Audio at 195.40.200.170/cobblers.ra.

Ray at 17:58:3 Tuesday October 27 98
Sometimes when I read these comments it makes it all worthwhile! Thanks for the comments regarding racism. One way of dealing with the matter I would suggest is to slope off out of sight at half time, collar a bobby and tell him whats going on. I know that the cameras are trained on certain seats although I suspect not much can be done from this evidence unless they have an expert lip reader.

Jamie Sullivan at 17:57:23 Tuesday October 27 98
I'll be listening to the last bit of the game on the internet being a poor student I can't afford it. I'll be spending Ł5 down the roadmender to see peoploykus, well worth the money too. I have an extra ticket if anyone is intrested. But good luck tonight anyway. Cobbs team: Woody, Gibb, Frain, Sammo, Hill, Hodgson, Parrish, Hunt (Warner if Hunt not fit), Corazzin, Wilkinson, Freestone (Lee if freestone not fit rather than Seal)

Ray at 17:53:51 Tuesday October 27 98
As at 5:45 - the match is still ON!

Hartwell Cobbler at 17:46:25 Tuesday October 27 98
Match definitely ON according to BBC Radio Northampton (5.35pm this evening).

Sid at 17:38:4 Tuesday October 27 98
Just a parting note. COME ON YOU COBBLERS! Anyone fancy signing this if we are winning:- Are you watching Ian Wright?? Are you watching I-an Wright.

Bez at 17:33:4 Tuesday October 27 98
Well done Oxford Cobbler for your stand, if everyone who hears this stood up to this it would end. The game is on isn't it?

jayne hilll at 17:31:3 Tuesday October 27 98
Keep up the good work boys, your luck must change soon. See you at Macclesfield on Saturday.

The Oxford Cobbler at 16:43:6 Tuesday October 27 98
Hi all and Ray, I am sorry to keep harping on about the racist stuff but i take heart from the fact that others in the North stand have heard the monkey noises and direct comments made at oppostion players and want something done. It happened again on Saturday and i can assure you it's pretty obvious who's doing it. I sat in J 41 on Saturday and took my life in my hands when i asked the group who sat (or should i say stood) just in front of me to keep quiet as i had enough. I told them that if they didn't stop it i would personally report the lot of them. It seemed to work and even the bloke in H42 shut up. What i want to know is what the stewards and the club are going to do about it. It is OK telling the stewards on the day but i can assure you there is a lot of aggression in some of these people and i don't fancy the consequences of walking down the front and pointing them out. After i asked them to stop it on Saturday i felt very uncomfortable for the rest of the game. The stewards must be able to hear it. Could you ask the club to inform the stewards to look carefully at this group of crowd. What about putting someone in the crowd or using the camera. Nothing has to be done on the night if the club don't want any confrontation. Surely evidence over a couple of games is sufficient. It has got to be better than one supporter accusing another. On a brighter note, i haven't got a ticket for tonights game so to all you lucky so and so's have a good one and burst a lung singing. I thought the performance on Saturday and if we play like that we will give them a run for their money. Come on the Cobbs.

SBJ at 16:25:9 Tuesday October 27 98
Yes, Bez, it's good to see that the club has a heart and has reacted thoughtfully to the death of this boy. After all we keep saying about the fans making as much noise as possible, let's hope that everyone at the Wycombe game totally respects the call for pre-match silence in respect for his death. The get a cracking win over the Chairboys to give the lad a good send-off.

Sid at 16:16:30 Tuesday October 27 98
COME ON YOU COBBS!!!! Did anyone see Ian Wright's column in the Sun today??? He is such a W****R! He reckons that IA has the "biggest mouth in football" HAHA!!!! Look at yourself Wrighty!!! He hopes we get beaten by tottenham and for Spurs to get into double figures! He says "its not sour grapes or anything." hhhhmmmmm!!! I will not tempt fate with a prediction, but lets just say as always on big matches, i'm quietly confident!

Bez at 16:13:25 Tuesday October 27 98
It's wet, it's cold and the game could be in doubt. Well at least Atkins has picked Andy Morrow. The Cobblers deploying a flat back 4 that would be new! Finally, there will be a minutes silence before the Wycombe game to pay respects for the 11 year old lad who was killed earlier in the week. The Cobblers are putting a picture of him in the programme and he is being buried in a signed Cobblers shirt. It sems a shame that one of the Towns future fans has do die in such a futile way makes you think doesn't it. Congratulations Cobblers on the way you have reacted to this. It's first class.

A friend of a Cobbler at 15:37:18 Tuesday October 27 98
My housemate has travelled all the way home to watch tonights game, the only thing is that he is a cobbler and the other two of us in the house are Spurs fans... Good Luck Cobblers, although hopefully we should win..

Ben Sturgess at 15:18:53 Tuesday October 27 98
What Happened at the preston game, i was in paris so i couldnt go watch, i read the papers when i got back and heard o f a bust up on the pitch, what happened exactly..... GOOD LUCK TONITE COBBLERS! TELL GEORGE GRAHAM WHERE TO GO! hey, christian gross was sacked after loosing to sheffield wednesday. so, will GG get sacked when the cobblers beat him?

Hartwell Cobbler at 15:10:36 Tuesday October 27 98
IA says he may now change to a flat back four, which is, hopefully, good news for those of us who have been campaigning for a change of system. We now have enough players who are comfortable on the ball to enable us to play it from the back, giving the midfield the chance to play in the front men with more accuracy. It would also allow the midfield to give and go and, if the wide men push on, should give us more opportunity to pull balls back from the byline. It's the way ahead and I'm sure a more cultured style would soon pay dividends, with the likes of Corazzin starting to hit the net with the required regularity.

Ray at 14:10:34 Tuesday October 27 98
A severe weather warning has been issued for Northampton until 6 pm today with heavy rain and string winds. If I (or anyone else of course) with news on a possible postponement could post here as soon as/if anything is heard.

SBJ at 13:25:16 Tuesday October 27 98
Les Ferdinand and Ruel Fox are both reported to be out of tonight's game due to injury. John Scales and Sol Campbell will be the centre of defence, and steffen Iverssen will be the focus of the Spurs attack. IA commented (to Football 365 on-line football mag) that he feels the noise and atmosphere will make all the difference tonight, and that whoever he puts out in the team will be highly fired up for the match. He also says that they saw the West Ham match as Cobblers' cup final, and so tonight's game is our European Cup final. Tonight will be top rate entertainment, especially as this all has to be decided tonight (no replays at this stage of the Worthy cup apparently!).

Kislingbury Cobbler at 12:36:46 Tuesday October 27 98
Barry Stonhill spoke to numerous groups of supporters on Saturday saying that Atkins had already told Razor that there was no place for him in the flat back four he's going to deploy and that was a major point in his decision to leave (as well as money). Heggs had asked to leave by January as he wouldn't command a first team slot once Hunter, Savage and co are back. Stonhill said he was prepared to face the fans to set the record straight, and challenged Atko to do the same.

Hartwell Cobbler at 12:25:30 Tuesday October 27 98
I've just checked with the Club and tonight's game is ON as things stand. There is no pitch inspection planned before the match referee arrives at 5pm. I'm told the standing water that was on the pitch during Sat's game has drained away. But it's raining hard now. Much depends what it's like this afternoon. I will be contacting the club shortly after 5pm and if I have any news will post a message here.

SBJ at 12:21:50 Tuesday October 27 98
Sid: just so you don't think you're being ignored: I couldn't ever make use of your site's chat room function, as I only have access to the Internet during office hours, and then only at lunch or during the odd break. So this message board will have to remain as my means of communication. Re Spurs this evening: a Spurs fan would probably see the circumstances as being favourable for a Spurs win - their new manager, their not bad win on Saturday, their recent upsurge of optimism and player commitment; and then our apparent disruptions (scuffle on Saturday, low league position, tradition of route-1 football). But it's only about what happens in our stadium this evening. It's true what Bez said - teams don't look forward to coming to Sixfields, and the big teams probably feel this even more acutely than our peers. West Ham came and gave 100%, and we used all that we had in our advantage to send them home disappointed. There'll be nothing to choose between the two teams tonight in terms of commitment, and it so often happens that 'top' players fail to perform when playing 'lesser' players on their home turf. So it comes down to the fans and the home advantage again: you (I say 'you' because I can't be there) must get behind the team and will them on 100%. If you've ever heard the Millwall fans doing the 'Lion's roar' you'll have an idea of how powerful the influence of the crowd can be. With a good performance on the field and an electifying atmosphere from y'all in the stands, I reckon a single-goal victory for the Cobblers is well within our reach. Best of luck to all the team; hope you all enjoy the game. Give us Arsenal next.

Hartwell Cobbler at 12:11:23 Tuesday October 27 98
Well, it's raining Datsun cogs here. Does anyone know whether the game tonight is in any doubt ?

Bez at 11:24:33 Tuesday October 27 98
The player of the year has an amazing phenomina. Warburton obtained 3 points and wasn't on the pitch!

Bez at 11:21:15 Tuesday October 27 98
Atkins was on Teletext p182 last night saying in an interview how we'll give Graham a good beating. His conduct last Saturday along with Moyes is unacceptable. I just hope that his behaviour improves as he is making our club get a reputation as thugs. To most other clubs they are afraid to play us at home due to the noise we make and how fervent we are as supporters. It seems perculiar the amount of publicity we've had nationally recently. Footie focus, On the Ball, Teletext (national), MOTD, and numerous National papers. It seems everyone is rooting for us to win tonight and we can do it. I hope IA does go to a 442 or 433 formation soon. Then we could play (when everyone is fit) Woody, Clarkson, Frain, Sammo, Dougie, Gibb, Hunter, Parrish, Savage, Seal, Corazzin. I tell you that team would play good football and we'd win matches. Thanks for the info on the meeting on Thursday. Now I wonder what Ray and Carl cost exactly so I can lay it to rest. Good luck tonight lads

Cobbler Down Under at 9:55:20 Tuesday October 27 98
Thanks Ray for the details,the commentry and the great work on this site.You really do epitomise the spirit of the "Mighty Ones". N.T.F.C. 2 - Twatenham Shitspurs 0.Bring on Liverpool after they beat Fulham 26-0!!!!

Ray at 8:53:21 Tuesday October 27 98
The match starts at 7:45 although broadcasting will begin before this time as I have to set everything up and running before I leave for the game - probably from about 6pm local time. I'll post the address you need to point Real Audio at both here and to the email group. Once again, please do NOT listen to the commentary if you are able to receive it by more conventional means as this will prevent other listeners from tuning in. Also please bear in mind that broadcasting this particular game will cost me about a tenner and the need for sponsorship is urgent!

cobbler Down Under at 5:56:12 Tuesday October 27 98
Same as Ian at 3:42:45 Ray what is the go for tuning in?What time is kick off so I can set the alarm clock and wake up the wife!!

Ian at 3:42:45 Tuesday October 27 98
Ray, please post how we tune in to the Spurs commentary, I should be able to listen to the first half before work calls and maybe I can tape the rest.

Richard Price at 2:4:45 Tuesday October 27 98
I'm just glad they beat West Ham....makes my year...possibly the decade...I know I lead a simple life...but my brothers a West Ham Supporter!!

Ray at 23:12:18 Monday October 26 98
What, what, what? Care to enlighten us as to what these comments were?

Anon at 22:31:2 Monday October 26 98
I'm amazed no-one reported Barry Stonhill's comments in the hour or so before Saturday's kick-off in the Executive Lounge. Talk about knocking the ball firmly back into Atkins' court! Nonetheless, Hodgson is going to prove to be an improvement on Razor, who seemed to have lost a yard of pace and certainly couldn't pass a ball. It also sounds from tonight's paper that Hill's days are numbered.

Pierre at 19:49:30 Monday October 26 98
Thought I'd give you another"hit".Good Luck to the Cobblers for tomorrow night against Spurs,we'll be huddled around the radio Tuesday night,cans in hand,hoping for a 2-1 win !!!!!!!!

Sid at 19:19:17 Monday October 26 98
Ray, 1,595 hits to go, you will definitely not get 50,000 by tomorrow night!!!! (unless some minor miracle happens e.g. West Ham away...) Thanks people!! My site is now at 502 hits, and no, i didn't go on 20 times since yesterday. i didn't want to influence anything!! Hey, maybe in 2 years time I'll be at 50,000 hits, who knows!! Did anyone see IA on Anglia news, hahaha!! he said that the fight "was blown out of proportion." yeah right!!! It isn't everyday you see managers go for the other managers throat!!!

Jacks at 18:52:7 Monday October 26 98
Agreement all round - well that makes a change from the last couple of weeks - YES the most important thing for us as Cobblers fans is to roar our hearts out in support of our lads. 9 points from the next 3 games is achievable - we are a great side - we have had bad luck - BUT - think of how we all felt last season and the deficit we had against Bristol Rovers in the play-offs - the atmostphere at the home leg was electric - and that obviously affected the players - WE CAN DO IT - and we as the fans of this great team have our place too! Hartwell Cobbler - your action to write to Barry Stonhill is commended - I actually felt moved to write to Razor - couldn't do anything else after the Chron report. ....... SPURS tomorrow - FANTASTIC - see you all there......

Hartwell Cobbler at 18:10:26 Monday October 26 98
SBJ _ I endorse what you say about Wilkinson. I don't think he's the most gifted player to wear a Cobbler shirt by a long way. But he doesn't deserve the kind of reception he got on Saturday. I sometimes wonder why these "fans" bother to go to matches at all. Let's keep our criticisms for before and after the match. And while the team's on the pitch get behind them. I also felt so saddened by the anti-Stonhill chants on Sat that I was moved to drop Barry a line. I think he needs to know that some of us (most, probably) understand and appreciate all he's done to save the club, get us to Sixfields and give us back some pride and self-esteem. Having said that I agree the directors should learn communication lessons from the Heggs/Warburton episode. But that's now history - roll on Spurs tomorrow.

Ray at 17:37:38 Monday October 26 98
The Millwall site has 39000 hits, no counter that I can see on Fulham or Man Shitty. Anyway - what were u doing lurking on the pish site then Mark?

SBJ at 17:35:14 Monday October 26 98
I'm encouraged by Saturday's draw with PNE, by the re-appearance of Seal, and by the positive comments about how the new players are shaping up as future favourites. Wilko didn't look too bad for Millwall to me (or against them earlier this season) - maybe he just needs more time to settle (like Hamilton Ricard at Boro?). Tempting a backlash, I think really needs some support from the fans atthis early stage of his career at NTFC (regardless of whether or not his performances deserve it yet) - more of the 'unlucky, mate, keep trying' rather than 'you're s**te, hope you die' variety of banter. Worked for me as a youth player. Looking forwards, aside from the Spurs game which should be a great game one way or another, the next three league games must surely be our best opportunity for 9 points yet: true, we're struggling at the mo, but the next three opponents haven't offered much to prove their worth this season either. Personally the results against Bristol and now Preston give me a lot of hope for this being the point at which our season turns around for the better. For our part as fans, sure we have to sort out the story behind the directors' behaviour / the finances / etc, but away from all that we must get behind the players (including Wilko) - a positive roaring crowd of supporters can almost be an extra man for a team, so let's all be the Cobblers' 12th man on the pitch, and help get us 9 points in the bag. Come on Cobblers!! PS congratulations to the Fire on winning the MLS cup.

Hartwell Cobbler at 16:55:24 Monday October 26 98
Angry Cobbler - wot, no Corrazin ? Must be some mistake ?!

TRB Mark at 16:17:34 Monday October 26 98
The P**H website claims 60,000 hits since Christmas but I'm not sure if that is on their website or in the face by oppposition fans............

Andy C at 16:8:21 Monday October 26 98
Hi, I'm back after a break and the Gills are going well - eight unbeaten now, although mostly draws. I think you'll find that Fulham, Millwall and Man City all have far more hits than this but not much more intelligent comment. (None of them have a counter as far as I can see.)

Chicago Cobbler at 14:25:51 Monday October 26 98
"One dark night, when we were all in bed Mrs. O'Leary left the lantern in the shed, and when the cow kicked it over, she winked her eye and said, It'll be a hot time in the old town tonight, Fire! Fire! Fire! I am pleased to report that our little club from Chicago (in our first yeat as a team) Have won the MLS Cup!!! Defeating DC United (2-time repeat Champs) 2-0, before a national TV audience and 50,000 fans!!!! We go for the double on Friday and play the Columbus Crew at home for the US Open Cup!

Bayswater Cobbler at 13:49:49 Monday October 26 98
Ray, in response to your note re the commentary. From here in London I'll certainly plan to listen to the Spurs game if you decide to hook up Radio N'pton. (I already emailed you my comments on the sound quality from Saturday's game). Maybe if enough of us expatriate Cobblers fans lobbied the BBC, then Radio N'pton might put it on their website (but do they have one ?).

THE ANGRY COBBLER at 10:0:56 Monday October 26 98
I think we should play a 4-4-2 with Chris Freestone and Chris Lee upfront. Lee looks a lot stronger now and I think 90mins against Spurs would boost his confidence. Freestone is quick and skilful and probably the only player we have who could turn Campbell (if he plays). My line up would be: Woodman, Hill, Frain, Sammo(c), Hodgson, Hunt, Gibb, Warner, Lee, Freestone, Parrish. Subs: Dobson, Seal, Turley, Witter, Wilkinson (The bench needs to be kept warm ;-) )

Ray at 9:58:27 Monday October 26 98
Although they have been running a year longer and we are averaging 25% more daily hits than them - so we should catch them sometime.

Ray at 9:57:13 Monday October 26 98
I regret to say that this site is only in second place with the hit count - beaten by Oldham with 58803.

Ray at 9:15:30 Monday October 26 98
The Trust meeting will be at Sixfields - probably the Sportmans Bar.

Bez at 9:11:51 Monday October 26 98
Where is the trust meeting? I'd like to go down to see what Stonhill has to say on the subject of which everyone is angry. Everyone get on this site so Ray can reach 50000. Do you think there is another 2nd Division site with a many hits?

Hartwell Cobbler at 9:9:25 Monday October 26 98
Bez - it seems from what you say there's a small group who precipitated and led the anti-Stonhill chants on Sat. I wasn't for one moment suggesting everyone in the North Stand participated. You could clearly see the core of the aggitation was based in the centre of the North stand. I do hope, having made their point, they will now drop their protests - certainly during future games - and give the team all the encouragement they can. Most of the vocal support comes from the North stand and the flanks of the West Stand. Let's hope - as you say - everyone gets behind the players on Tuesday. If they do so we could have another night to savour.

Ray at 9:3:10 Monday October 26 98
The commentary was actually better quality than the sound clip of IA I believe.

COBBLER DOWN UNDER at 6:26:29 Monday October 26 98
Ray, Thanks for the I.A. comments via Real Audio it was great to hear.I would have listened to the pne commentry but was in bed!Would love to listen to the Spurs game though.Does the club finance the official pages and if so why can't they service the commentry via there and save you the expense?

Eddie K at 5:27:23 Monday October 26 98
I live in Australia and I will be listioning to the Tottenham match on Tuesday . I hope you will continue the commentary till the end of the season.

Ian at 4:37:19 Monday October 26 98
I listened to the IA post match comments Ray, if the commentary is of similar quality it would be fine.

Ray at 23:17:57 Sunday October 25 98
This is a copy of a post I made on the email group regarding commentaries:OK - can I have some idea of people from outside the area who are likely to listen? There is a limit of 25 btw unless any of you have an ISP that supports streaming. If this is the case then perhaps you could let me know as soon as possible so I can make the necessary arrangements. The way it works at the moment is that I have to set my own machine up as a web server and as I am only working down an ordinary phone line, this is the reason why there is often net congestion when people are listening and Im basically dialling up and sending out the commentary direct from a mike by the radio. (If any firm cares to sponsor the cost of phone calls in return for an advert or web work or what have you then this would also be appreciated and would also ensure that the commentaries will continue no matter how many listeners there are. This doesnt cost a fortune - about a fiver a match)

Ray at 23:15:51 Sunday October 25 98
hmmm - 16 in the last 2 hours - ie 8 an hour - about 45 hours til the start of the match - erm... gets out calculator...oh well - guess we wont make it then :-)

Mark at 21:57:53 Sunday October 25 98
The is a Trust meeting this coming Thursday at which a certain Barry Stonhill will be guest speaker so come and vent thy spleen. Blimey, he must really be praying for a great match and a Cobblers win on Tuesday..............

Sid at 21:43:35 Sunday October 25 98
Hey, my site is just about to reach a landmark!! My site should record its 500th hit tomorrow! YYYEESSSSSS!!! So everyone, just come to http://members.xoom.com/cobblers tomorrow so i can make it!! Does anyone have any ideas on when is the best time for everyone to come into my Chat Room??? I want to know because it is not doing very well. PLEASE tell me the best time and i shall arrange it!!!

THE NEEDY COBBLER at 21:29:10 Sunday October 25 98
If ANYONE who reads this before 1 or 2 o'clock Tuesday has a home ticket for sale for Cobbs v Spurs, please mail me ASAP on leon@netcomuk.co.uk or ring 01327 843711 and ask for leon. I'll pay Ł30-35 just to get a ticket. HELP ME!!!!!!!!!

Sid at 21:24:44 Sunday October 25 98
I have managed to get tickets also for Spurs < which i am chuffed about, considering i would have had to endure listening on BBC Radio Northampton for the game, which would do my head in. I am still a little bit hacked off at NTFC ("plc"??!!) for their part in commandeering. Almost 1200 tickets is still too much, But we need a bigger ground!!! Surely with the money were making, we could get funding from the Football Trust and Lottery grants, aswell as funding from our vast pot of possibly Ł500k?? and IMPROVE THE NORTH STAND by a ccouple of thousand. What do people think?? I think IA will play Wilko, because we need some sort of aerial threat when they have Big Sol Campbell in the side. Cobblers Line-up: Same as weekend with these 5 subs - Turley, Warner, Dobson, Lee, Seal. Tottenham may rest a few stars i feel, and play Iversen, Armstrong Fox etc.

Sid at 21:16:45 Sunday October 25 98
Earlier, i said "i agree with the bloke in H42." What i meant was i agree with everyone about the bloke in H42. (you know, racist chants etc.) Ray, i think it will be done by Friday, but hey, with all the spurs fans coming online to find Cobblers sites you could have a guestbook full of c**p from Spurs fans!

Ray at 20:54:22 Sunday October 25 98
1,801 to go........ guess we wont make it by Tuesday.

Bez at 19:42:49 Sunday October 25 98
I agree with everything everyone has sid, for a change. The blokes in J14 and 15 in the North Stand should consider why they are at the Cobblers and so should the men in D14. They were starting the chants from the North and I did not join in with any of it. This is because I now feel that Heggs as much as he was a livewire he wasn't THAT good and as for Warburton, Hodgson looks like our new hero. What a player! Up front at the end, long throws, hard tackles, the way he strikes the ball is a joy to behold. Just wait until the luck is going our way and we'll storm up the table. In the conditions Parrish, Freestone, Corazzin, Hunt, Frain, Hodgson and Gibb were fantastic and the reception for Seal was superb. He even played well! My only comments on Wilkinson is he knows his limitations, but he infuriatingly at times doesn't have a change of pace which is what annoys everyone. I think for Tuesday we should be looking at Woody, Gibb, Frain, Dougie, Hill, Sammo, Hunt, Parrish, Seal, Corazzin, and Freestone. With Wilko on the bench. He will be one that Spurs will fear even though we think he is poor. Finally, Why did Atkins do exactly what the fans wanted with 20 minutes to go by putting on Seal for Wilko? Was it a resignation at the fact that he has lost 2 decent players in a week and it has made him have a change of heart and will now listen to the fans? Never! It's the dawn of a new era, lets make sure it is a good one Good luck on Tuesday, I'll be cheereing you on from the North Stand. West Stand and East Stand we want to hear you as the atmosphere will have to be electric if we're to beat the Spurs.

Ray at 14:44:23 Sunday October 25 98
...... and I also agree about Dave Bowen.......

Ray at 14:44:0 Sunday October 25 98
... and I dont find it in the least surprising that for the first 15 minutes whilst those chants were going on - Preston were all over us. As soon as they stopped the Cobblers took control.

Hartwell Cobbler at 12:7:20 Sunday October 25 98
Well played the lads on Sat. We took the game to them and deserved at least the point. The atmosphere at the start couldn't have helped the players, though. The chants of "Stonhill out" from the north stand were numbingly stupid. Whatever your views on the Heggs/Warburton affair, the players didn't need that to contend with. Up against the league's top team they needed every encouragement they could get. They are, after all, human beings and react to situations in the same way as the rest of us. Whatever the rights and wrongs of the situation it has nothing to do with the players and that kind of chiding was totally out of order. Although I cannot verify this, I was told on good authority today that Atkins was the one who wanted Warburton to go. And that Heggs was made an offer he couldn't refuse - a handsome singing-on fee plus wages of Ł1k a week. This information may be wrong but if it's not, then it does put a different slant on the situation. I also wonder, in passing, how many of the fans involved in the "Stonhill out" chants stopped to think for one moment how much Barry has done to save the club ? However, I am not uncritical of the directors in one respect - they should learn from this the importance of keeping the fans properly informed. They have numerous ways of doing this. Had they used their PR options effectively and given us facts on the Heggs/Warburton situation, we may not have had to endure the anti-Stonill chants yesterday. As for Ian Atkins being the best manager we have ever had - what about Dave Bowen ?

Jake at 11:10:55 Sunday October 25 98
Give Razor back!!! (oh I know, I know he's gone - it's just the way I feel - I CANNOT believe Stonhill after the comment from 'Nosey Parker' how could they treat Razor like this after all his dedication and leadership to our football team. I am horrified.)

Ralph at 10:19:51 Sunday October 25 98
I've said me bit about Razor and Heggsy already, but . . . I do not expect and explanation from the club, I demand an explanation as to why they went so cheaply. I agree with the earlier writer who spoke of Barry Ward's contribution. It is not easy running a football club, are we sure we have the right people, with the right qualifications to be handling the club's finances? These are the burning questions that we should demand answers to!

Ralph at 10:14:58 Sunday October 25 98
I still say Ian Atkins is the best manager we have ever had. He will go on to even greater things. If that is to be with us may depend on the moronic element that appear to criticise his every move. Right now this club needs the support of everyone. Go on name me a better manager than Ian Atkins!

Ralph at 9:44:26 Sunday October 25 98
I'm distressed to read about the racial stuff. What are the stewards doing about it. I can honestly say I did not hear anything from my seat. Can we not out these individuals? What are their seat numbers?

Ralph at 9:42:11 Sunday October 25 98
Another good game yesterday, bundles of action, if PNE are top then we have nothing to fear but fear itself.

NOSEY PARKER at 8:6:14 Sunday October 25 98
Morning all the Razor argument will rage for a while so I thought I might ad some more fuel to the fire.I was told by a player(who will remain nameless) that Razor phoned Stonhill at 1150 am to say he had to sign in 10 mins and was having second thoughts as he wanted to finish his career at Northampton.He basically begged for acontract extention.He was told sorry no deal what a way to treat a player like Razor.Before everyone blames Stonhill ATKINS had the final say and said "sell himl" Also the final figure is Ł60,000 for Ray andŁ50,000 for Heggs.Also Heggs would of stayed if they had offered him a small rise but was again ignored.The talk about being over budget os total crap did they budget for Ł300,000 for the West Ham game? I dont think so and what about Spurs surely they must be record receipts? I think the fat cat directors are now surely in the position to pay decent wages or is there a cover up???

Eddie K at 1:0:58 Sunday October 25 98
Ray , I listioned to the game through Real Audio and although the broadcast was not very clear it still beats getting score updates from soccernet .I hope this will continue throughout the rest of the season .

Sid at 0:30:32 Sunday October 25 98
Right, one thing i want to know from all of you. When is the best time for all of you to come in to my chat room and have a chat about the Cobblers. i cannot seem to get more than two people at a time in the room. Does no-one think its a good idea?? I thought the cobblers played excellent today. Finally, another last min effort puts us on the right track. i agree with the moron in H42. i was in the west stand, but i clapped Wilkinson when he came off. He still s***e but still he had at least one good touch today! Corazzin MOM was right, Hodgson was excellent in defence. Possibly the next Warburton?? (no-one could be like him though). Their keeper had three blinding saves. Their player rightly sent off, and i wouldnt be surprised if IA got a touchline ban for him clobbering the preston boss at the end. A great days viewing, cant wait till Tuesday, I now have gained tickets!!!! i was on the cancellation lsit, but not now!! Can i have your feedback on the Chat Room please. thanks.

Sid at 0:23:10 Sunday October 25 98
Hey!! where is everyone!! My chat room is open, but only Rob M. bothered to come along. Sorry Rob for getting logged off!

TRB Mark at 23:17:53 Saturday October 24 98
Have you read "Animal Farm " by George Orwell? For Boxer the Shire horse being carted away in the knackers van, read Razor. Have to agree with Jacks that the reading of Razor's version brings tears to the heart. Even worse than the booing of Wilkinson by the "fans" were the monkey noises made to the opposition's black players. These morons are getting away with it.

jacks at 22:44:13 Saturday October 24 98
yep - dennis have to agree with you - a comment to Wilko like moronic H42 makes is pathetic and blatently cruel - I simply think he lacks true passion - hope i'm proved wrong - but, you must admit - he has not yet supplied anything for us to cheer about.

Denis at 22:8:1 Saturday October 24 98
I am not a Wilkinson fan but 1. I think he is better than Gayle (remember when he was booed coming on in the fizzy pop cup?) altho he wouldnt be in my team. However what good does it do when he is booed every time he touched the ball today and "donkey" sounds made at one time. BUT what really got me today was a moron who sat in seat H42 North stand shouted out to Wilko "I hope you die on the way home". This piece of s***e obviously thinks himself a supporter, but true supporters get behind the team no matter who is playing. Don't these prats realise what it does to players? I pretty sure that if Wilko had scored he would have been cheering with the rest of us. Doesnt it just make you despair?

Jacks at 22:3:25 Saturday October 24 98
Anyone reading the Chron should have tears in their heart about the comments Razor made. How badly has he been let down. How could they.......he gave us such dedication, displayed such talent...led us to Wembley TWICE...the board should feel very, very bad. Well played today lads, we should have taken the game..but we will be OK. Anyone know what all that aggro was at the end? Wilko - can he actually run - hmm didn't think so...

Emma Gunn at 21:22:47 Saturday October 24 98
I think that the cobblers have been unluckly so far this season and espically today. I think that we should have won easliy. I think Carlo is a great player

adam at 21:18:22 Saturday October 24 98
being a rushden fan (yes hiss, boo etc) i thought you might be interested to hear how heggs got on today. he looked pretty nervous before the match, but the crowd certainly made him welcome which seemed to help. he soon got stuck in, he seems to be the kind of player who gives 100%, which soon got fans singing "carl heggs, carl heggs, he'll brake your f***ing legs!". he didn't really have a chance in the first half, but darren collins scored a fantastic goal so we were all happy. (darren has scored something like 120 goals in the four and a quarter years he has been at rushden, he's become a cult hero! - although i believe when he played for you he wasn't that good, he needed to learn his trade better in a lower league, now he's easily good enough for the second div) anyway back to heggs, he scored in the 90th minute, from close range, and took his shirt off - thats some tattoo! ray warburton was also introduced to the crowd at half time, and got a good reception.

Steve at 19:12:38 Saturday October 24 98
My kids say the Cobblers played really well - lots of pressure and a ton of chances. If the only goals we are going to let in are either deflections or own goals, and if we keep creating chances, then we are obviously not playing badly. I'm convinced it's only a matter of time before we start climbing the table.

Ray at 17:57:49 Saturday October 24 98
You can hear Ian Atkins view of the game at http://web.ukonline.co.uk/ntfc/ianatkin.rm = poor recording Im afraid but this is early stages.

Anon at 17:17:37 Saturday October 24 98
James Hunt equaliser in the 90th!

jamie sullivan at 17:2:41 Saturday October 24 98
Ray- how come the razor and heggs news isn't on the offical site

Jamie sullivan at 17:0:36 Saturday October 24 98
Heggsy just scored for diremonds 90th minute. Nice one the board, it says in the chron neither wanted to leave but Razor wanted a raise and a extension but they wouldn't and Heggsy just wanted an extension.

Anon at 16:1:50 Saturday October 24 98
0-1 AT HALF-TIME. Colin Hill own goal after seven minutes.

COSMOS at 15:24:5 Saturday October 24 98
Anyone there?

Ray at 14:2:33 Saturday October 24 98
Please point Real Audio to 195.40.202.83/cobblers.ra You will need v 5 or better. As the number of people who can log on are limited, please do not use this if you are able to get commentary by other means. Your feedback would be much appreciated!

David at 13:6:51 Saturday October 24 98
No good again. I suspect that here in my office everything's against me - old operating system (Windows 3.1), behind a firewall etc. Whenever I followed links from the RealAudio site the item wasn't found.

Ray at 12:52:13 Saturday October 24 98
You will have to load this direct from Real Audio - if thats any help

David at 12:47:37 Saturday October 24 98
No luck. I'm getting 'Not a Progressive Networks Audio Protocol server'.

Ray at 12:36:24 Saturday October 24 98
there is currently a test transmission on 195.40.200.224/cobblers.ra - can u hear anything?

Sid at 12:31:33 Saturday October 24 98
Ray, are you still doing it??

David at 12:28:55 Saturday October 24 98
Yes I'm here but behind a firewall so I'm not optimistic

Ray at 11:34:5 Saturday October 24 98
If anyone is online at the moment - Im about to do a test transmission - please indicate if you are here.

Ray at 11:24:12 Saturday October 24 98
Dont forget to check in here at 2 o'clock for the address of the commentary!

Bez at 11:21:47 Saturday October 24 98
Richard- I agree 110%

Bez at 11:20:8 Saturday October 24 98
Sid- How about we all turn up in full kit and try to fool our board that we are, in fact the players, I think I can do a good impression of Wilko. No offence to the man but he is the most selfish player around. Nevertheless, DON'T boo him OR any other players. It's not their fault that their board has done this. From what I understand Atkins has been asked time and time again to cut his squad and has refused due to injurys and had said when they clear up he would sell. This is until the board decide to sell the club captain and the most skillful player a day before a game against the top team in our division. What a group of plonkers, I tell you if we concede first then their will be fireworks from the crowd. I will not have any part of this. It has happened now no more Heggs or Razor, We now have Savage and Hodgson to replace them so we'll be fine without them. LEts get behind the lads and maybe even see a bit of Warner today. It is the dawn of a new era at Northampton Town, lets make sure it is going to be a good one with good fans and lets get 3 points off PNE and climb the table so we don't play R&D next season. And if we do lets give them the roughest tougest game they will ever play and hammer those rich tossers.2-1 to the Town today WE CAN STILL DO IT

NOSEY PARKER at 8:51:48 Saturday October 24 98
Morning all.....Was I right last week or what!!!! Next bit of unbelieable news is DAVID SEAL will play today(or at least be on the bench) as he trained with the others on set pieces etc.Also did anybody out there know that Seal has a a contract which says if a club comes in for him and it is turned down then at the end of this season if he is not happy he can go for free!!!!Now say that the club has good money sense?

Ian at 4:17:59 Saturday October 24 98
Seems my late night comments are being consumed by praising something someone else has said. All of you who see these pages should read carefully what Ray has said. We all feel critical at times but the job of being a director of a club like ours is not easy. Hard decisions have to be made and the most important is that we do not slip back into debt. There will only be a future if we stay in the black. Look at the trouble Brighton and Hull have been/are in and both of those have traditionally been a bigger club than ours. When we first made it to the old division two, one of the mainstays there was Doncaster and they could be out of the Conference after this season. IA can probably buy players on the say of only two or three directors but the whole board will be in control of the overall budget and keeping the finances straight will be a major concern. Fans may not like it but selling Heggs and Razor probably makes good financial sense if the club feels they are likely to leave on a free at the end of the season under the Bosman ruling. IA tends to overspend his budget on players, somewhere, sometime the brakes have to be applied.

Ray at 1:48:33 Saturday October 24 98
OK - as an experiment - I'm going to try and retransmit the Radio Northampton commentary tomorrow. If you want to listen to it then please note that only a maximum of 25 can listen at any one time. Transmission will start at the beginning of the Sports program at approximately 2 o'clock and will finish when I get home and hang up the phone after the match. To listen to the program you will need Real Audio - so make sure you have this on your system beforehand. This can be downloaded - if you dont already have it then point your browser at http://www.real.com/products/player/downloadrealplayer.html?wp=dl1098&src=productsmain,v38&lang=en After you have downloaded Real Player you will be able to listen to the broadcast by opening the application and then choosing "File" "Open Location" and typing in the code that will be both in the email boxes and also in Cobblers Comments. This wont be Hi-Fi quality as this is only in its early stages - feedback would be highly appreciated.

RICHARD at 1:25:17 Saturday October 24 98
What a difference 5 months makes, and we've only kicked a ball in anger during 2or3 of them! How quickly euphoria and unswerving loyalty turns to dejection and carping criticism! It's plain to see for any first-time visitor to the site, that we are in turmoil. Notr surprising then to find we are in the trap-door region of the division. Where are all the hopes and expectations; the pride and determination of not that long ago? Are we so cynical and lacking in resolve that weallow ourselves to be seen on these pages bickering, in-fighting and thirsting for blood? Is it not the same club officials who helped drag us up from the depths of liquidation only a few seasons back? Yet we are now castigating these same hard-working, loyal, deep-rooted Cobblers supporters, because?---- Because we aren't winning as we did before; we're drawing and losing more than is healthy at this end of the table; we've started selling old favourites to 'balance the books'. Unpalatable as this may be, and I'm as sad to see the likes of Razor and Heggsy go as anyone, these are the same decisions being made in other clubs up and down the land! Would we be so irate , frustrated and rebellious if we were riding high in the division, with potential to go all the way? Possibly, but the pill would be less bitter to swallow. We are not immune from the vicissitudes of football; injuries happen; players have disputes with management; coaches don't always agree with directors' decisions. But, come the relegation crunch period at the end of April next year, are we going to be for 'em or against them? The choice is simple; the players don't want to hear their own supporters howling abuse and derision. Whether it's directed at individuals on the pitch or management in general, to the players on the day it's soul destroying! No-one has to agree with everything that has happened or is likely to happen over the coming hard months of toil and endeavour, but the least we can give the lads who do the work on our behalf, a rousing response on any match day, regardless of the outcome. If I had the money, I'd give them the cash for Razor and Heggsy; If iwas good enough (and atouch ypounger) I'd bloody well play for them too. But all I can do is turn up to the games, pay my money and burst my lungs for the lads. You are all, of course, entitled to your opinions, but none of this mindless ranting and raving if you please. If you're a true supporter, it has to be through thick and thin! Perhaps Preston will pay the penalty for our plight! Don't RANT - RAVE!!!!!!

Sid at 23:50:53 Friday October 23 98
I know, lets have a sit down protest on the pitch tomorrow! If someone brings a ball, we'll go on at Half time and have a shout at the board, then make our own half time entertainment!! Gives us a chance to make a fool of ourselves on the rain sodden pitch!

Angry Cobbler at 22:36:30 Friday October 23 98
I bet if someone came in with Ł200k for Hunter the board would take it. BRING BACK BARRY WARD!

I HATE WILKINSON at 22:26:37 Friday October 23 98
I am going to boo Crap Wilkinson every time he touches the ball (that's about four boos during the warmup and one boo during the game) The only way NTFC can make up for selling razor is by persuading Franco Baresi to play for us.

Sid at 22:15:38 Friday October 23 98
SORRY!!! CHAT IS OFF AGAIN! I 'm sorry, but i cannot make the chat tonight, but if anyone is interested in a chat about tomorrows match and the Warburton /Heggs saga (bloody chairman...) come to http://members.xoom.com/cobblers on SATURDAY, 11:30pm, AFTER MATCH OF THE DAY. See message at 16:30 on Friday for details of how to log in. This time i will be there so i'll look forward to speaking to you!

Ray at 18:30:58 Friday October 23 98
Oh ........... and WELCOME!

Ray at 18:30:35 Friday October 23 98
Both - but here is the only place you will be able to post your own comments.

Richard Eldridge at 18:29:56 Friday October 23 98
As a first time visitor to the sites, I'm confused by the official and unoffical pages - whch am I supposed to use ?

Anon at 18:26:4 Friday October 23 98
What I find disappointing is that there has not been any posting to "Latest" news on the Official Site since 18th. October!

Ray at 18:23:40 Friday October 23 98
Confirmation that Heggs and Warburton have been transferred to Rushden today. Both have been offered 3 1/2 year contracts. Heggs, when interviewed, stated that he would have preferred to stay at Northampton but they refused to offer him an extension to his contract that expires next Summer. Heggs will be in the Rushden team on Saturday. Warburton who is recovering from a double hernia operation is reported to have been offered the post of Assistant Coach. The exact figure for the transfer has not been disclosed but is reported to be not "unsubstantial". although the individual fee for either player will not exceed the Rushden record of Ł85K.

Serial at 18:9:4 Friday October 23 98
It's all very well blaming the manager for putting us over budget, but every time he's bought a player, it's been with the approval of the directors, as you'd expect, as it's their money.I feel the deal stinks, particularly with regard to Warburton, but I'm mystified as to how the club can be running on a sound financial footing when Barry Ward is in charge, and then, the minute he goes, we're suddenly running over budget. It's a bloody good job we got all that money from the West Ham game isn't it ? I'm sure the directors are fans, and I'm sure they've put lots of their own money in, and I'm sure none of them have money to burn, but, the lack of open communication on this issue will harm them, and the club.

Hartwell Cobbler at 17:55:50 Friday October 23 98
The Chron tonight quotes a figure "in the region of" of Ł65k for Heggs. If so, it's the biggest giveaway since Adcock and Barnes. Atkins is staying silent about the deal but appears to be blaming the Chairman. But who put us 25% over budget, presumably precipitating the sale? Just one of a whole raft of questions which we, the fans, deserve answers to from our Community Club. If, as is implied, we are having financial problems, the Board's responsibility is clearly to deal with the matter. No criticism there. But we would appreciate further information about the situation. Being informed enables us,in turn, to be objective, avoiding wrongly-directed criticism. Most of us want the Cobblers to be successful on the pitch and viable off it. Despite what's happening I would, however, appeal to everyone to get behind the lads tomorrow. Any bad feeling from the crowd - whoever it may be directed at - will not help the players. It promises to be a tough game, we badly need the points and the players will need our support. So let's get behind them and save the questions, comments and criticisms for after the game. They'll no doubt be plenty to say and a lot of time to say it !

Bez at 17:38:9 Friday October 23 98
The queastion is why do we get kept in the dark for so long. We find out now when its done and everyone now goes why? It's too late for that. They have gone, but how can the board sell these 2 and leave 18 fit squad players? They don't know what they are thinking of. Take off Witter because he plays for Welling on Saturdays and Wilson with Turley because of obvious reasons and we are left with 15 fit players. Clever hey? I wish i had such an itelligent footballing brain. Have you also noticed NO statements, NO press conference, and they haven't been on here to answer questions on this matter, I feel that it may be a way for us fans to get our point of view across and for them to explain exactly why and how much for each and how they can justify such low amounts and the timing of these sales. Oh you stupid, stupid, stupid board of old crusty gits who need to realise that you sell Seal, Lee, Turley and the like before your best players.

Sid at 16:35:39 Friday October 23 98
Would anyone like to chat about the weeks events?? Annoyed, Happy about the weeks events with the Cobblers?? Well, my chat room will be open for a chat forum at 11:30pm, at http://members.xoom.com/cobblers. You need a full name, e-mail address and Full name. I will be in there this time, unlike last time! but if it is too late mail me! I want to find a decent time for chattting, so mail me with the best time for a chat, and i see what i can do!!

Sid at 16:31:41 Friday October 23 98
I cannot believe it! Why the hell are we selling first teamers to Conference clubs!! Next we will be hearing Seal has been sold for a crate of beer to Rothwell town (no disrespect to Rothwell) Just as we are in a middle of an injury crisis we sell our players! Point of that??? i cant think of one!!

kept in the dark at 15:49:4 Friday October 23 98
.......oooops.......

kept in the dark at 15:48:44 Friday October 23 98
.....the whole thing is just really disappointing and now Savage out for a month! fantastic - hey maybe we can get Razor and Heggsy on loan!!!! so long boys............

kept in the dark at 15:48:15 Friday October 23 98
.....the whole thing is just really disappointing and now Savage out for a month! fantastic - hey maybe we can get Razor and Heggsy on loan!!!! so long boys............

frank large appreciation society at 15:46:30 Friday October 23 98
BRING BACK FRANK LARGE

Hartwell Cobbler at 15:40:22 Friday October 23 98
The reason why Heggs and Warburton have been sold is probably because Atkins has gone so far over budget that the directors were forced to sell - and the only deal on offer was from Diamonds for these two. While I also didn't want to see either go, if it's a question of stabilising the club's finances to avoid a recurrance of the debacle we suffered seven years ago then it has to be done. The long term future of the club is paramount. None of us - especially those who stood in the streets rattling their buckets for loose change to help save the Cobblers in those black days - ever want to see us in that situation again. However, what we do want to see is some closer contact between the fans and the club and, particularly, answers to a range of questions which the Heggs/Warburton sale requires. After all the Cobblers promotes itself as a Community Club. Now's the time to prove it really believes its own publicity by talking to the fans and answering some of the many questions which are being asked on this site and elsewhere.

But Why Ray? at 14:45:38 Friday October 23 98
Getting back to the main point, why is it RAY who's being sold off. When I told my girlfriend the news she said: "but isn't he some kind of Cobblers God?" See EVERYBODY knows that. Why don't the people that matter realise it. Too late now. Nice parking lot though.

They've gone! at 14:39:45 Friday October 23 98
Well, thats it. I've just rung the soccerline (seeing as thats the only way to find out any info from the club coz you have to pay for it) and it says on there that Heggsy and Ray have definately signed for R&D. It says they were signed for an undisclosed but substantial fee. If anybodt knows anything else please write.

Hartwell Cobbler at 14:35:39 Friday October 23 98
BOB - in fairness the bottomless pit to which you refer:up to the summer much of the cash was going to pay off our creditors; now I think you'll find most of the extra cash generated has been spent (overspent?) by Atkins buying in new players every time there's an injury, some costing us a pretty penny, each one adding a significant wage cost plus some no doubt rather tasty signing-on fees. As I said earlier it's time Mr Atkins was asked to justify his spending and his team tactics, which are dire and which are not enabling key players like Corazzin to perform to their worth. While I'm also sad to see Warburton and Heggs go, maybe this could have been avoided with more, earlier, prudence on the transfer market.

Ray at 14:20:1 Friday October 23 98
To be fair, I'm not sure that writing to the club will have any effect on the tactics that we play. These are down to Ian Atkins who is in charge and thats the way it should be, no matter how much we disagree with him. With regard to the racist element I can tell you that mail sent to the club identifying offenders will produce results although speaking to a steward or perhaps more efficiently, the police at the time will have a better effect. Offenders WILL be ejected from the ground and subject to the usual safeguards, banned permanently.

The Oxford Cobbler at 14:0:39 Friday October 23 98
Like the chrismas card and the optimism that we might actually create a situation to which the snowmen can shout goal. By the way, don't waste your breathe writing to the club about any matter. I have learnt over the last season, they don't listen to the voice of the real fans. If you don't believe me, why is Atkins still insisting on the same dross tactics and why do we still have a physco, racist element attending Sixfields.

RICHARD at 11:47:35 Friday October 23 98
BTW, nice X-mas card, Mark!

RICHARD at 11:36:8 Friday October 23 98
The importance of the internet as a means of timely communication has not been entirely overlooked by the Club, but possibly given a low priority to other media, presumably because it is perceived by more technophobic types as too esoteric and costly for the likes of "yer average Cobbler fan"! Although this site attracts a staggering number of hits on a regular basis, it would be interesting to know the proportion of the say 4-5000 'hard core' fans who have a pc let alone the internet! The e-mail list may also shed some light on this. Ray says these pages are read by the Club. They will, then, be aware of our (almost) unswerving loyalty. The points raised here and conclusions drawn, indicate only that we are passionate in our support and desire to see the Cobblers do well. Better use of the PR machine on these pages would go a long way to spreading the word. By disseminating important information here first, to those of us with the hard/software, we can then pass this on to friends, other fans etc, who do not, and who normally only receive second-hand, garbled gossip and ill-founded rumour from often unreliable sources. In summary, get the message across early to avoid unsubstantiated speculation and potentially damaging discontent.

That's that then at 11:20:36 Friday October 23 98
.....thanks for that Ray.....atleast we all know - doesn't mean we have to happy about it - but - if the deal is done - all we can do is wish them all the very best and thank them for the service to what IS still our club - prediction for tomorrow is Cobblers 2 Preston NE 0 .........here's to the rest of the season.....

Ray at 11:2:33 Friday October 23 98
Apparently the transfer of Heggs and Warburton is now signed, sealed and delivered. A press conference is being held at 1 0'clock. More details as I hear.

Bob at 10:54:24 Friday October 23 98
Another thing - I am fed up with this ten year cycle - Cobblers develop up a promising team, we win promotion, we have a good start to life in Div 2 (3 in the late 80's)but the directors start thinking of their own pockets. We sell our best when we should be building and low and behold we find ourselves back where we started and incredibly the money from sales / Sky / Wembley / Increased attendances has dissapeared into the bottomless pit known as the Cobblers boardroom. And the best thing is that no-one cares about the fans . No-one bothers to communicate with us the humble punter. I feel very depressed and I sincerely hope that I have misread the whole situation.

Bob at 10:35:50 Friday October 23 98
Simply - Does anyone know if the Rushden 2 have gone yet ? I cannot bear the suspense. How can we lose two of our more passionate players - we need players like these who look like they care - I am fed up with Atkins signing the likes of Wilkinson who basically could not give a S*** who they play for - in fact Wilkinson and play are mutually exclusive words - We were warned he was over the hill but Atkins took no notice - I know Gayle couldn't trap a bag of cement but at least he looked intimidating - Wilkinson just looks like a ponce. DON'T GO

Hartwell Cobbler at 10:21:29 Friday October 23 98
Ian - that just about sums up the current situation in a netshell. What I'd like to hear are IA's reasons for ignoring the likes of Seal, Warner and Chris Lee when he's gone on record saying what great prospects Lee and Warner are and what great assets they are to the club (I believe at one time he even mentioned one of them being worth Ł1m!!!). If they are as good as he's often said, why the hell are they in the reserves and why, especially, when we have so many injuries does he consistently overlook them and bring in new men all the time - and on many occasions ones which have proved pretty ineffective and/or have played half a game then disappeared. As I said in my last message, the fans should also be asking IA why he's blown the club's budget - one, presumably agreed between him and the board at the start of the season. Injuries are a poor excuse - as Ian rightly says what's the point of having a reserve team if players in it can't step up to the first team when required? If there is any criticism of the board Cobbler Down Under's views about lack of communication with the fans is a valid point. Stonill's comments in last night's Chron were very sound. But the club has recently appointed a PR man. The primary role of a PR man is as a communicator between his company/board of directors, the media, their customers and the public at large. If the club utilised PR skills properly and professionally a better rapport between the board and the fans could be established for the benefit of all.

pca at 10:10:50 Friday October 23 98
...no maybe it was 90-91...

pca at 10:9:31 Friday October 23 98
well there was that season with Foley (89-90?) when we didn't WIN after Christmas!

Cobbler Down Under at 9:56:24 Friday October 23 98
With reference to the comments posted most eloquently by messers Hartwell,Ralph,Ian et al regarding the Directors of the Club you are all right.They are merely operating under guidelines to ensure (according to their laid down agenda) the smooth operation and running of the Cobblers.It appears that where they fall down,is where most boards and commitees fall down and that is in the art of communication with the people they affect ie;the FANS. I have dealt on a professional level,as I am sure many of you have,with Boards all my working life as a Golf Pro and at a Club like ours I can't see that they are there for any other reason except that they have a feeling for it.Whether that feeling is as strong or as heartfelt as the TRUE fan of the Mighty Ones that I can't say but I do know that any decision that is made by definition is made for the good of the Club.What I am trying to say is when they have the Bollocks to justify their decisions then no problem,until they do then take as much S&#t as is flung.If it was neccesary to sell Warburton & Higgs then fine but with the excelent info server we have in the "UNOFFICIAL" Cobblers Home site why can't they simply tell us what is going on and why.I know you are responsible for the "official" site Ray but this is where the fans hang out. Tell us what is going to happen before the Chron & Echo and why perhaps a ticket price hike for a midweek cup game is required,just let us know what is going on behind the scenes so that when the ticket price is payed we feel a part of the "Club".THERE IS NO TEAM LIKE NORTHAMPTON TOWN BECAUSE OF THE SUPPORTERS.Directors please take note because without communication misunderstanding prevails. Supporters take note,demand answers from those who can give them because only a fool leans on his own misunderstanding! On Saturday cheer the chant for the boys,they are the ones who count and ALWAYS REMEMBER the Cobblers never lose after Christmas!!!

Mark at 9:28:50 Friday October 23 98
If you do go to my site to find out the card details, there is a change which has'nt been implemented. Because the card has kindly been sponsored by Nationwide, I am able to offer a card twice the size of last year's with only a small price rise (and this to cover the cost of bigger envelopes). So for ten 21 x 15 cm (8 x 6ins) the cost is Ł5.00 plus Ł1.00 P+P. Half the profit (I can't afford to give it all, unlike last year) will go to the Trust). They hav'nt been printed yet, I am aiming to have them in the club shop for the Wycombe home game. Thanks Ray, for your help

Emily Church's Dad at 8:52:14 Friday October 23 98
Emily - how dare you waste your valuable education, posting comments onto this highly disreputable notice board during school hours. Your time would be better spent improving your speling.

Ian at 3:0:47 Friday October 23 98
Hear hear to the Hartwell Cobbler! The number one priority above all else is that we do not end up back in queer street because of overspending. We came too close for comfort last time, it must not happen again! With the rash of injuries, bringing in new blood was always likely but what is the use of the reserve team if the players in it can't play in the first team when needed? In particular the oft mentioned Seal, Lee, Warner. If IA is not going to play them even when half the first choice side is out with injuries, what are they doing at the club? On another point this is a very critical game this weekend. If we don't win we are going to be stuck in a bottom five that is more than a win adrift of the pack. Statistics will show that the bottom four at Christmas more often than not get relegated. Things are starting to get serious.

The Livid Cobbler at 22:53:23 Thursday October 22 98
Does anyone think IA has lost the plot???

The Angry Cobbler at 22:51:44 Thursday October 22 98
The only reason Graham Carr's teams after the 86/87 promotion side were dire was because we sold Richard Hill, Eddie McGoldrick and Trevor Morley. From then on, the rot set in until Mad McRitchie took that with him when he nicked all of our money. I know you must be sick of me asking this again and again, but does anyone have any cobbs v tottenham tickets for sale? please mail me on leon@netcomuk.co.uk ASAP if you do.

Hartwell Cobbler at 20:11:59 Thursday October 22 98
Ralph - hope the curry was OK! No, I wasn't having a go at you ref the directors. Your views are balanced and reasoned. I was refering to some of the knee-jerk reactions to the Warburton/Heggs issue. Barry Stonhill's comments in tonight's Chron are spot-on. What he's saying is that we've overspent on the playing side by 25% (signed more players than we have offloaded and increased the wage bill at the same time, not to mention some hefty signing-on fees). That has to be brought back into balance, otherwise we could end up back in the same stew we were in seven years ago. Does anyone want to see that situation recur? It is a duty of the directors to keep the club's books balanced. If they didn't then fans would have something to complain about. How can anyone fairly criticise the directors for keeping the club on a solvent footing? That is daft, short-sighted and bears no relation to reality. Sure we'd all like to see better players at the club. But not at the expense of the club's future. Paying out more than comes in has, in the past, been the downfall of many a larger club than the Cobblers. In many ways the way the club now sets an example which many - including most Premier League outfits -- should follow. As time goes on more clubs are going to have to take this route -- or go bust. Critical questions about the current overspend would be better directed at Ian Atkins. Are some of the recent signings better than some of those he refuses to play? Are there too many journeymen players at the club ? Why hasn't he offloaded players to balance the budgets? He complains aout the injury crisis. Yet he still seems to manage the luxury of keeping players such as Seal, Warner and Lee out the team, while continually buying in new names. Why? Even loan players have to be paid wages. No wonder we are over budget. I believe those who are complaining about the directors should be asking the man who spent the money for some answers.

Ralph at 17:59:36 Thursday October 22 98
Crikey is that the time? Must dash, swift half in 'The Spread' to be followed by a half price Bilash.

SBJ at 17:52:12 Thursday October 22 98
Harsh shows passion at least.

Ralph at 17:51:20 Thursday October 22 98
Hartwell - I do not wish denegrate the stirling work achieved by all the directors, I know Brian Lomax cares. As a club progresses it needs to look at all it staff, players, managers, directors, head stewards, commercial manager, groundman, etc, etc, to ensure progress. Sometimes messages left on these pages can sound a little harsh, I do not mean to be, I just hope it provokes some thought to the debate.

Bankie Sympathiser at 17:51:18 Thursday October 22 98
At least you're not directed by the Clydebank directors - recent player dealings detailed on the Bankies website include: Clydebank Football Club have this morning (2 Oct) announced the sale of winger Gary Teale to Ayr United for Ł85,000. Bearing in mind that Reading made a concrete bid of Ł100.000 some two weeks ago, Bankies fans are up in arms about the deal. It is being regarded as a sideways move for an ill-advised Teale, and is being viewed as bad for the club's prospects this season. This could be the difference between staying up or going down. In a further bizarre twist, Bankies Board have apparently instructed Manager Ian McCall to trim his squad to just 15 players - if true, this is nothing other than sheer lunacy. To the Directors, we say: "If you are not going to run the club seriously, leave the club before you kill it." . . . and rumours are now resurfacing that the Bankies could be forcibly relocated to Galashiels or even Dublin. Who'd be a football fan?

Ralph at 17:39:23 Thursday October 22 98
Hi Chicago - David Seal did play in the reserves last night and I thought he had a good first half and not a bad second half. He appears to have lost a bit of weight and he looked very sharp and wanted the ball. A couple of chances came his way and he was unlucky not score, West Ham's keeper made a magnificent save from a bullett header. Seal also laid on the goal for Chris Lee. For my money he would at least get a place on the bench for Saturday ahead of Freestone, poor old Chris still looks a shadow of his former self. He struggled to getinto the game last night, his first touch has deserted him and he eventually was substituted, although I guess that is to rest him for Saturday. The Seal debate goes on!

Interested Cobbler at 17:34:44 Thursday October 22 98
Is the NTFC org. chart on-line anywhere? I mean something that will tell me who the Directors are (Gawd bless 'em!), what the chain of command is for the team staff and for the 'behind-the-scenes' staff? Presumably an annual report would have this info? I see names of Directors and other seniors on this site that I'm not familiar with, and I feel I should be. If not, could someone message these details onto the guestbook? Ta.

Ralph at 17:22:55 Thursday October 22 98
Angry Cobbler - The measure of any manager, I guess, is the amount of success he has. That said the team Graham Carr assembled that won promotion almost managed itself. Great credit to Carr for buying the players. Did you ever watch his subsequent teams? It was pretty dire. Playing for offsides; squeezing the play into the middle third; it wasn't pretty watching. And of course his record after the Cobblers speaks for itself. Still that one season was great fun while it lasted.

The Angry Cobbler at 17:5:7 Thursday October 22 98
I was watching a copy of the 1986/87 promotion video and I realised how different Atkins team are to Carrs. Carrs team gave excellent service to the strikers and were sound at the back. We are sound at the back, but that's all. The team has no imagination - We need a Dozzell or Heggs (assuming he doesn't move to R&D) to get it going again. We need a Razor to lead by example. We need a GOOD striker INSTEAD of Paul 'Couldn't score in a brothel' Wilkinson. We need to play to a system that suits talented players like Hunter, Corazzin, Gibb and Warner (if he EVER gets a chance) - and we need to keep the faith with players like Heggs and Seal - they WILL deliver if they get service. I hope IA reads this because I am sick of watching the Cobblers pass like we all know they can and then getting a bollocking off the bench and resorting to kick and rush tactics. DON'T SELL RAZOR AND HEGGSY IA! If I had the money I would pay the Cobblers Ł100,000 to keep them.

Ian Atkins at 16:49:51 Thursday October 22 98
I hereby tender my resignation as I have been offered lucrative terms at Rushden - I am currently in the process of transferring the team just up the road. btw - the reason I was in a suit last Tuesday was because I was making arrangemments for the funeral of NTFC.

Hartwell Cobbler at 16:10:57 Thursday October 22 98
Ralph - your message ref Heggs/Warburton eloquently summed up my feelings about the situation and the players contributions to the club. Regarding comment from other quarters about the directors, people should remember a) what they have done to save and now develop the club and b)they are fans just like us. In fact by taking on such onerous responsibilities they are, in many respects, the most loyal and dedicated fans. We should not forget that being a director of Northampton Town is a far cry from being a director in the fat cat Premiership, where millions are to be made overnight from Stock Exchange flotations and takeovers. Anyone wanting to benefit financially from football would'nt bother becoming a director of a second of third division football club. They'd be better sticking their money on the lottery....at 14 million to one. So let's keep a sense of perspective - Brian Lomax is dedicated to the Cobblers, so are the directors and so are we, the fans. We're not on different sides of the fence. We just see things from a different perspective. The directors would be negligent if they didn't pay close attention to the balance sheet.

Jane at 15:15:22 Thursday October 22 98
Chicago Cobbler - i think you are right when you say that the board does not love football as much as we do - to them it is a business and that is really sad because all they think about is money. In today's Chronnie Barry Stonhill stated that 'the team was running at 25% over budget ' and 'needed to carry out some realistice pruning' of the team. I understand you can only sell the players that other teams are interested in but why have we been buying players worth 80K or more if we haven't got the money to do it and we have people on the team who can fill the places required (Seal, Warner, Hughes etc.). Also - look on R&D website and they don't even WANT Heggsy or Razor, they want someone from Yeovil of all places! HEGGSY AND RAY - WE WANT YOU TO STAY - PLEASE DON'T GO!!

Chicago Cobbler at 14:36:55 Thursday October 22 98
Ralph, at the reserves last eve. did David Seal play? Is he fit to be in the starting line? I like the comments on Heggs/Warburton, However I am worried that the board does not love football as much as you do. This is after all a business. I'm sure in some desk drawer there is a five year plan to improve the parking, expand seating, and attract better players. Problem is, if you do the latter now, where will you put the extra fans? You are already selling as many seats as last season. The right business move is to take the money and make the necessary improvements. I think they got scared when we were almost a first division team without the infrastructure to support the money making machine. Call me a pessimist, but I'd wager its closer to the truth. All they need right now is a team that can stay near the bottom of the table without getting relegated. I'd begin to really worry if Woodie gets sold.

treenie at 14:14:38 Thursday October 22 98
why's the latest news on the official site 4 days out of date?????

Ralph at 14:14:25 Thursday October 22 98
I would like to know more about the alleged Ł200k shortfall in the club's accounts. If we are to protest or concern ourselves with the running of the club, then we should begin here. After all the angst and hard work post-McRitchie we, the fans must not allow the club to go back down that route. Mr Lomax where are you?

Ralph at 14:2:17 Thursday October 22 98
Hartwell Dave - My source said IA was attending a family function, possibly a funeral. I would have thought that this would make more sense than attending an interview for a position that has yet to become vacant, particularly on such a busy night of football.

SBJ at 13:50:34 Thursday October 22 98
Bah! It always happens that I post a message and then someone with better reasoning comes along (Ralph, you the man). There's a lot of angles to this discussion; whatever happens we've had good service from Ray & Heggs, and we'll doubtlessly get good service from whoever it is that fills their place. Different subject briefly: Ray - how come that 'Ian Atkins' who messaged in yesterday has what appears to be a legit Cobblers e-mail address? Surely IA doesn't have dodgy staff making silly comments from his address?

SBJ at 13:47:2 Thursday October 22 98
Ray please stay, and Heggs please . . . doh, not much rhymes with Heggs does it? But anyway Heggsy, please stay too. The few of my friends who I've tempted into watching Cobblers matches still to this day comment favourably and consistently on only three of our players: Woddy, Heggs and Ray. True enough the latter pair may want to leave, in which case there's a limit to what we can do to stop them going; but if it counts for anything I want them to stay, so to IA or whoever it is that's controlling this deal - give them what they want and get them to stay with the Cobblers. The Cobblers, goddammit!!

Ralph at 13:36:32 Thursday October 22 98
I was at the reserves last night and talking to a couple of people who are 'close to' Barry Hancock, the Warburton/Heggs deal is agreed and is now up to the players. Whilst I appreciate that this an emotional topic we have to try and understand the thinking behind the deal. One thing for sure is that players come and players go, they have short careers that can be ended by one rash tackle. The move for Ray may be right for him and if that is the case I'll be the first in line to thank him for all the wonderful memories and wish him and his family well for the future. In my book he owes this club not a jot, a great servant and ambassador he has been. Heggsy, well I think his reputation and the affection shown for him perhaps outweighs his actual ability and temprament. I believe if the club is to progress we have to look further than the Heggsy's of this world. Don't get me wrong I'm a fan and I enjoy watching him play, but you need consistency and discipline at this level and to progress. So we can protest all we like but in Razor's case I think we need to think what is best for Razor and not what we think is best for us.

Jacks at 13:6:17 Thursday October 22 98
So distressed was I when I last wrote - all I could shell out was "Oh good grief". It is obvious that EVERYONE is horrified at the almost probable loss of Heggsy and Razor - so let's do something about it and show our support for them on Saturday - as it has already been mentioned we, the fans, line the pockets (and very comfortably). Everyone should sing their hearts out..hey this is OUR club and Razor and Heggsy are part of that until the time they go. Ray, you commented that this site is read - let's hope so. DON'T GO - Ray your our Captain! - your the motivation behind the team and Carl you are a very talented player and you have such exciting dynamics on the pitch - WHY would you want to drop to the Conference? I don't understand. Has anyone else heard any further news yet? And any good ideas for Saturday - come on - the time to show the passion for our club is NOW.

The Insider at 13:3:25 Thursday October 22 98
Where did the Ł200k gap in pre-season finances, that Messrs Stonhill and Hancock mentioned recently i.r.o. the Spurs' ticket price increase, suddenly come from? Can we see a breakdown of Directors' financial contributions and drawings over the last three years, including now ex-directors?

STAN FLASHMAN at 12:52:32 Thursday October 22 98
If you want a ticket for that game, you'd better see me young man

Hartwell Cobbler at 12:46:23 Thursday October 22 98
Amid all the understandable clamour surrounding the possible Heggs/Warburton transfer, there is one possibility which may explain the seemingly strange move and ludicrously low transfer fees being quoted: both may want to leave the club. If that's the case (and I'm not saying it is) then presumably the club may feel it has to look seriously at any offers. And maybe the Diamonds is the only one on the table. After all, no other clubs have actually beaten a path to our door to sign any of our other key players up to now (despite all the speculation). As to why IA was in a suit - the rumour mill has it that he was talking to Leicester City! Personally, I doubt it. Despite his record at Div 3 and Div 2 level, I don't think IA is yet ready for Premier League management. Mind you, I would have said the same about John Gregory and been proved totally wrong!

Adam Hepton at 11:31:54 Thursday October 22 98
From the barren wastes of Luton, I make a visit. Very nice site. I hope to get up there and see Northampton in the cup v Spurs with my sad Tottenham supporting mate. I'm a Bradford fan myself... How much does it cost to get in next week then? See you all at Sixfields.

Emily Church at 11:31:32 Thursday October 22 98
Just writing to say this is a sad day for all the Cobblers fans around the world. :-(

pca at 10:50:30 Thursday October 22 98
Of course if it was simply for financial reasons, I think most people would understand - but not three weeks after signing a midfielder for Ł80K and when we have an 85K striker who's not been within sight of the first team this season. There's got to be a lot more to it. Was the mystery of Atkins-in-a-suit ever solved?

Ray at 10:33:32 Thursday October 22 98
If you want to do any form of campagining then there are several option: 1: Post here - I know its read. 2: Email the club using secretary@ntfc.co.uk 3: Join the mailing list.

pca at 10:28:6 Thursday October 22 98
i don't know how we could even CONSIDER selling Warburton. When he signed he was playing in a Cobblers team in which he was 200% better than every other play, but he's stuck it out, stayed loyal, played his best all the time, come back quickly from injuries and scored the odd 90th minute equaliser. If they doubled his wages the extra cost would only be the same as we'd have to pay for signing a player of half his talent (Dobson??). And who's gonna be captain??

pca at 10:24:13 Thursday October 22 98
If it's not signed and sealed yet let's start a Leicester-style campaign to let Razor and Heggsy know what we think. Post your messages to them here - and if someone could get them to look at it, that would help. I'll kick off - DON'T GO RAZOR AND HEGGSY - YOU'RE WORTH MORE THAN THAT

NOSEY PARKER at 10:0:58 Thursday October 22 98
Well all the shouting about Atkins being off his trolley is a bit unfair.The people above are the ones to blame.Do you think Razor can turn down an offer toTREBLE his wages at 31 and give him the first step on the managerial ladder? And as for Heggs he has more crap gemes then good anyway(pity we dont play Bristol Rovers every week) Let Seal have a chance we will make on Heggs and Ray.Micky Warner would be 2 more places up the ladder to get a game as well so whats the problem,Chill out and errrrrrrrrr RELAX!!!!

Ray at 8:23:6 Thursday October 22 98
Apparently the Warburton/Heggs deal is not yet completed. Neither player has yet agreed to sign.

Ian at 23:57:2 Wednesday October 21 98
Richard, I think paradise was "paved".

Ian at 23:56:23 Wednesday October 21 98
Richard, I think the parking lot was "paved"

Ray at 23:37:50 Wednesday October 21 98
...... but its an awful recording :-)

Ray at 23:35:35 Wednesday October 21 98
Or if you want to sing along - point your browser at http://missjanet.xs4all.nl/velvetrope/audio/gtig2-cut.wav

another old song at 23:29:5 Wednesday October 21 98
What we need is a great big parking lot, big enough to take the world and all its got.....

Sid at 23:15:45 Wednesday October 21 98
Richard, Change the addres to Heggsy@R&D@aol.com!

Disgusted (Sid) at 23:14:44 Wednesday October 21 98
If Atkins had any part in that sale of Warburton, then he should be ashamed of Himself. FULL STOP! Who in there right minds would sell their Captain to a team 2 divisions below us and for only 35k?? (5k more than what we bought him for) If that Leicester Job was still open i would tell him to leave so Kevin Wilson could become manager. Who agrees with me that Wilsomn would be a good manager??

parking lot at 22:38:24 Wednesday October 21 98
hey Richard! Great minds or wot?

RICHARD at 22:35:49 Wednesday October 21 98
oldsong: You don't know what you got 'til it's gone. You pay paradise to put up a parking lot! So the money's going towards ground expansion and necessary extra car parking facilities? Give me Heggsy and Razor anyday.

parking lot at 22:35:8 Wednesday October 21 98
I think what you mean is "you dont realise what you've got til it's gone" but your are so right. sob sob

oldsong at 22:20:6 Wednesday October 21 98
You only realise what you've got when it's gone!

RICHARD at 22:11:17 Wednesday October 21 98
So the rumours are true. This has even been a 'done deal' for some time, it seems. So what's the crack? Take Heggsy first. PROS: gifted, fast, good crosser, motivated (and some!), plays both wings, provides genuine width, can defend allowimg two more forwards to play up front when taking the midfield role. CONS: temperamental, inconsistent, poor finisher, ill-disciplined. OK he's not everyone's first choice. He could be a liability at times, but the positive aspects of his game will be hard to replace for the money we received for him. PLUS, what do I do with my e-mail address? As for Razor, this is a different kettle of fish. It stems from rumblings about pay some while back. The injury is coincidental and should not be cited as an excuse to dump him; he deserves better for his faithful service. Money talks, unfortunately, but if we had a limitless supply like R & D, we would probably not be losing either player for whatever reason. The books have to be balanced and the playing staff, with the exceptional injury list, is just too big and costly. So where would you trim back if not these two, who are the only ones that a genuine offer has come in for, ignoring the spurious Woody, Roy and Ali offers of recent weeks. It certainly isn't incumbent upon the suits in the board room or even the coaching staff to make their innermost thoughts known to us, but it would be nice to now the general thinking behind such moves which obviously do not go down as unanimously popular with the paying fans. If, come the end of the season, we have survived and the new blood and returning favourites have put the bad times behind us, we will be the first to applaud the decisions taken earlier. However, if we continue to struggle, then questions will surely be asked about and evidence sought for some strategic plan behind all this. I shall still be there on Saturday giving it my all, witnessing the downfall of "Once Proud Preston" as the 'Lilywhites' are besmirched by Cobblers toil and graft. Disgruntled but optimistic of Crowborough!

NAT AND COLLETTE at 21:18:12 Wednesday October 21 98
WHAT THE HELL IS IA THINKING?? What am I going to call to call my octopus now??? (He's called Heggsy) Why has he sold Razor (one of our best defenders) and although Heggsy has a short temper, he's talented and plays with the dedication that certain other players lack. I suppose we will just have to be thankful that Ali and Roy are still here. We've put all our faith in Atkins before, and we don't doubt that he can take us up a division or two (wishful thinking!!) But what the hell is he playing at??????? We think it's time the fans got some answers, and soon.

NAT AND COLLETTE at 21:18:9 Wednesday October 21 98
WHAT THE HELL IS IA THINKING?? What am I going to call to call my octopus now??? (He's called Heggsy) Why has he sold Razor (one of our best defenders) and although Heggsy has a short temper, he's talented and plays with the dedication that certain other players lack. I suppose we will just have to be thankful that Ali and Roy are still here. We've put all our faith in Atkins before, and we don't doubt that he can take us up a division or two (wishful thinking!!) But what the hell is he playing at??????? We think it's time the fans got some answers, and soon.

Chicago Cobbler at 20:57:51 Wednesday October 21 98
SBJ, Thanks for the words of encouragement RE The Fire. Sorry to hear about Razor&Heggs. The regularity at which players are sold is a mystery to me. Most sports stateside require two teams to trade players (or add the infamous "player to be named later." Who can they buy the money from the sale? Midfield, Striker?

Ian Atkins at 19:34:24 Wednesday October 21 98
The Cobblers are crap. I'm gonna sell all my players to Rushden.

Bez at 19:21:44 Wednesday October 21 98
I honestly don't think IA has had any say in this sale. In fact I believe that the board has come out in its true colours for the first time in 4 years. Can you really see IA selling Warburton for Ł35000? I can't and Ł65000 for Heggs is to put it mildly a bunch of arse. Something must be done. As much as I dislike Heggs, many FANS think he is great and all the FANS love Razor so why sell him. Oh sorry we don't get a say because we are the people who keep these directors doing something during the week. To be perfectly honest if we do sell these two players then we may as well not bother turning up on Saturdays becuase the morale will disappear. The most disgusting thing is to Rubbish and Diremonds! This has really given me half a mind to attempt to sell my season ticket in protest. But then of course no one would buy it would they? And thinking about it would that be the way to go about it?NO, we've got to get behind the lads on Saturday whether we've got Heggs AND Warburton or neither and make sure that we will not be in the same division as these bastard Northern Northants money grabbers. We have to graft and use this team on Saturday (pending fitness) Woodman, Hill, Dobson, Hodgson, Frain, Gibb, Parrish, Hunt, Warner, Corazzin and Seal/Freestone. On the bench Savage (if fit), Morrow (as he is REALLY good for the youth) and Witter (If we still have him). Remember don't boo the team, Boo the board if you have to any one at all.

anon at 18:58:4 Wednesday October 21 98
what is rumourmonger on about?? speak ENGLISH, man!!

Collette Kinsella!! at 18:56:57 Wednesday October 21 98
Cobblers Rock!!!!!!!!!!!, and stuff POSH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Rumourmonger at 17:34:2 Wednesday October 21 98
IA showing himself to be 'uncompromising' and 'firm' in advance of an invitation to fill managerial vacancy upcoming at Leicester City?

Angry Cobbler at 17:15:51 Wednesday October 21 98
Why is Atkins letting Razor and Heggsy go to R&D? I suppose it's because they did not keep the bench warm at Birmingham at one stage in their carrer. Ł35k for Razor is a joke surely? He's a Cobblers legend and Atkins is selling him for about a tenth of what he's worth. Heggs is the most unpredicitable striker we have and he's the only one who tries (Carlo excepted). I hope Stonhill is not the next McRitchie. What next? Woddy being sold to Ford Sports for tuppence ha'penny? Hunter and Deano being sold to Shitborough for about Ł1.60? Maybe Atkins will swap Chris Lee for a kebab. Where will it end? SORT IT OUT IA - AND DROP WILKINSON!!!!!!!

Jane at 16:32:25 Wednesday October 21 98
In reply to Jamie Sullivan - On the radio it has just said that the deal for Razor and Heggs has been done for a while with Barry Stonhill and Max Griggs and today the club have given Rushden Diamonds permission to approach the players to discuss terms.

Jamie Sullivan at 15:35:23 Wednesday October 21 98
Oh yeah the local radio doh!

Jamie sullivan at 15:34:37 Wednesday October 21 98
35 grand, diamonds probably can't believe the bargain there getting. It's not gone through yet but i reckon we'll probably get the 4 o'clock press conference. Does anyone know how long it takes for news to filter through? how quickly before it appears on the offical site or for someone here to find out. I know Teletext is only updated at 12pm everyday so I can't think of anyway to find out until tomorrow.

SBJ at 15:4:35 Wednesday October 21 98
Before I start waffling on I should say that I agree with 'oh good grief': with or without Heggsy and Razor the Cobblers will still get along OK, but only if everyone (club and fans) is positive and supportive of the team. But I am disappointed with this news, especially as it's practically the first thing I've read since returning from holiday. I wonder what the proceeds will buy us now? Whatever the next moves are for IA (suit or no suit) I'm still confident that we'll enjoy a comfortable mid-table position by the end of the season - the new boys have settled in well by the sounds of things (Wilkinson debate notwithstanding) and the older hands (when not injured) will always do the business if not made to hoof the ball upfield like IA wants. On a totally different note, a bloke I work with saw at first-hand last night that Big Johnny Gayle is still poncing around ineffectually for Scunthorpe. No great loss to us there at least. Ray: I like the Christmas card. I couldn't make use of live commentary but it's a good idea for those who can. Hartwell Cobbler: I lived in Paphos as a toddler, and I'm a Cobblers fan too - small world. Richard: I like the IK'CIWT reports better than the Chron ones - You always give a real sense of the whole game package, not just the football. To save your money, could you not write them off-line and then cut&paste them to the message board, or e-mail them to Ray for him to convert? Chicago Cobbler: I agree that the growth of Soccer in the US can only benefit world football. I used to follow the San Diego Sockers due to family connections. Best wishes to the Fire. Kettering fans: I was in Taunton on Monday and it smelt of FA Cup glory . . .

Its so unfair! at 14:53:7 Wednesday October 21 98
NOOOOOOOOOOO!!! How could IA sell them? It's not fair.

Oh good grief at 12:51:42 Wednesday October 21 98
........terrible news - Razor AND Heggs - what is IA thinking of!! and still keeping hold of liabilities.......we HAVE to win Saturday and I urge EVERYONE to get behind our team on Saturday - It's not good enough to simply excuse our league position by saying our performance doesn't accurately rate us. Enough. Let's pull it together and get out of this rut. I am gutted at losing Razor and Heggs - but, if they are gone, they're gone. Lucky R&D....

Ian at 12:22:2 Wednesday October 21 98
Razor was certainly upset at what he was being paid, one has to assume that Rushden will be paying him considerably more. Rushden must think they got a bargain to sign him when he is recovering from an operation, of course I presume he will be able to start coaching fairly soon. Remember he was not an IA signing so that probably played a part. IA also thinks Razor plays too deep, certainly deeper than IA wants. Also with all our injuries the squad has grown, some were sure to go sooner rather than later to bring the overall wage bill into line. Perhaps there was pressure from the Board as well?

Steve at 12:0:19 Wednesday October 21 98
I am afraid it falls upon me to impsrt the news you've all been dreading. Today's Chron. confirms that Heggs and Warburton are both signing (probably today) for Diamonds. The total fee is Ł100,000, 65K for Heggs, 35K for Razor. I am, as I'm sure everyone else will be, devastated. Not so much for Heggs. We've made a profit on him. He's entertaining and passionate, but dreadfully unreliable - nearly got sent off last night for elbowing. No - flogging him was a good bit of business, but Warburton?!? He, more than anyone, epitomises the recent glory years. He is a major part of the reason that my family and I have got back 'into' supporting the Cobbs. Even if we had to sell him - the fee! 35K for the best central defender in the bottom 2 divisons? There MUST be more to it. Has Atkins upset him. There's a lot being said about how the role at Diamonds will involve coaching. Surely this opportunity could have come anyway a year or two down the line. He's only 31. Surely a new contract could have been arranged offering him a substabtial pay rise and an assurance of a coaching role a year or two down the line. A pay rise of Ł500 a week would have cost us 25 Grand a year for the next couple of years. I reckon he's worth double that. O.K. I'm an amateur and don't know a thing about players' contracts and should probably keep my mouth shut, but surely something has gone wrong here. As you can tell, I'm ranting. I will now lie down in a darkened room for 3 weeks and let the rest of you vent your respective spleens.

Kevin Simons at 9:15:9 Wednesday October 21 98
When was the last time the Cobblers left the field to a chorus of "what a load of rubbish"? Well they got it last night and thoroughly deserved it. Wilkinson got the "ee-orr" second half - he is simply CRAP and it's difficult to see what he offers the side. Remember his strike rate means he won't score until early December. He had two one-on-ones and a free header in the 6 yard box and wasted them all. And don't say I haven't warned you all about Colin Hill: he spent last night poncing behind Sammo and Hodgson, it's little wonder the Chron says each week "rarely troubled". While he was away we won one, drew one. The record when he plays is such that we're little more likely to win one in four. Scrap the back five now before it's too late!!

Ian at 4:34:6 Wednesday October 21 98
Sorry Steve but evening games are mid afternoon here and I was teaching from 8 to 10 your time. However there was a computer in the classroom and I did have it set to soccernet so I was able to occasionally glance at the score, not sure if the students noticed!

Cobbler Down Under at 23:30:58 Tuesday October 20 98
Is Bill Dodgin still alive?If so could someone give him a call!

Chicago Cobbler at 22:59:33 Tuesday October 20 98
Steve, Thanks for the running commentary. Sorry result. Did Atkins ever show up?

RICHARD at 22:36:20 Tuesday October 20 98
Steve: Thanks a bunch for the 'on the spot' report. Shame about the result, but it could have been worse. Hopefully, the injuries are not too serious. It seems like 'Lily' had some influence in midfield and it was his departure which led to our disruption and fall off in thew second half. once again, missed opportunities are our undoing. Watch out "Once Proud Preston", Cobblers ill-luck will turn to glorious goal-scoring, dominating good fortune on Saturday. It only requires 6,500 of us to get behind the lads in their hour of need, and victory will be ours! Is this deja vue, or did someone say this before the Rovers play-off second leg last May?

Steve at 21:43:40 Tuesday October 20 98
Good cross by Frain to the far post. Just misses Sammo. Luton counter-attack and nearly score as injury time approaches. Luton attack with 3 on 1, but fluff a great chance. Cobblers nearly score through Corrazin, but that looks like the last chance. Yes - there's the final whistle. The Cobblers lose 1-0 to Luton with what sounds like a fairly dismal performance. Sorry not to have more cheerful news. Still - there's always Saturday.

Anon at 21:42:54 Tuesday October 20 98
Are you still there Steve?

Anon at 21:39:56 Tuesday October 20 98
It must be over

Anon at 21:37:48 Tuesday October 20 98
Help

Anon at 21:35:53 Tuesday October 20 98
Not long left :-(

Steve at 21:35:11 Tuesday October 20 98
Great save by Woodman, tipping over from Alexander. Oh no! Now Dougie Hodgson is injured - flat out. The referee is calling for the stretcher. Luton make two substitutions. Hodgson gets to his feet. The problem seems to be his left knee, and he's going off for treatment. Hopefully he'll be back in a minute. He comes back on. Luton attack again. Cleared. Hegss gets the ball - gets booed. Wilkinson is free, but delays. Gibb crosses. Davies heads over. Corner to the Cobblers. Frain - near post. Nothing. Luton counter attack, blocked by Parrish. Atkins brings on Freestone for Dougie Hodgson for the last 5 minutes. Cobblers are looking really unbalanced and are leaving the back door open, but these are desperate times.

robert at 21:33:22 Tuesday October 20 98
Is Savage's injury serious? This migh see Atkins forced into playing Warner, then again peer will come in, is Deano still injured.

Steve at 21:26:26 Tuesday October 20 98
Good work by Corazzin - crosses to Wilkinson, whose header is fumbled by the keeper, who then recovers. Best chance for the Cobbs this half. In their eagerness to equalise,the Cobblers are leaving gaps at the back, and Luton keep breaking dangerously. With 15 minutes to go, things are looking grim. Hill forward, Sampson at the back post, fails to pull it back. At the other end Heggs is in trouble for alleged elbowing - gets away with a yellow card. The Cobblers players incensed at Luton's attempts to get Heggs sent off. Heggs chases down the left, cleared.

Steve at 21:19:31 Tuesday October 20 98
20 minutes gone in the second half and still no good news. The Cobblers have been disrupted by the injury to Savage. Luton attack, cross and McKinnon just misses with his boot - should've done better. Luton still attacking, looking much the better side. Woodman boots it down to Wilkinson. Throw to the Cobbs. They just can't pierce this solid Luton defence who have only conceded 2 goals at home this season. Hunt forward to Wilkinson to Hunt ....... nothing. Luton move forward fluently, finding things far to easy. Great save by Woodman on the back post after a header by Makindo.

Steve at 21:9:22 Tuesday October 20 98
Cobblers just can't get a grip in this half. A very scrappy period. Corner to Luton. Sammo heads it out. Luton on top - they keep pumping the ball in, and look the most likely to score.

Steve at 21:5:30 Tuesday October 20 98
Cobblers nearly caught out by a Luton break. The BBC commentators are speculating about Atkins. They can't see him in the stand and they're talking about him having missed the bus to Luton. Was he talking to Leicester?!? Savage is injured. Not what we need - another casualty. By the way - apologies. Dobson isn't playing. He's sub. I missed out Sammo. How could I? Anyway, Savage is off - injured his knee. That's disastrous. He's got dodgy knees anyway. Heggs comes on. More speculation about Atkins. He's wearing a suit! What can this mean???

Steve at 20:58:12 Tuesday October 20 98
Start of the second half - Luton attacking. Parrish clears to Corrazin - dispossessed and Hunt puts the ball into touch. No changes to either side. Atkins is watching from the stand, perhaps he's afraid of losing his self control. Free kick to Luton. The ball puts Woodman under pressure, but is cleared. Frain down the line. Luton attack, blocked by Sampson. Cobblers break. Savage holds the ball up. Gibb to Corazzin. Good control, holds the ball up well. Great move by the Cobbs ends in a goal kick.

Steve at 20:41:21 Tuesday October 20 98
Just before half time, a great move culminating in a fantastic volley from Savage which smacks the bar. So - the Cobblers go in at half time unlucky not to be level, having had half a dozen chances to Luton's one. All we need is a half time bollocking from Atkins followed by a dose of luck and the match is as good as ours.

Steve at 20:36:45 Tuesday October 20 98
Evenly matched towards the end of the half. The team, by the way, is Woodman, Frain, Hill, Dobson, Hodgson, Parrish, Hunt, Gibb, Savage, Corazzin and Wilkinson. Tempers getting a bit frayed. Wilkinson and Corazzin reacting to bad tackles. Steve Davis is booked. Free kick to the Cobbs 5 yards outside the 'D'. Corazzin teeing it up - it comes to nothing. Savage cocks it up.

Steve at 20:27:46 Tuesday October 20 98
Corner to the Cobblers. Nothing comes of it. Luton counter attack. Cobblers defence in tatters. Gibb round the defender - crosses to Savage - nothing. Luton counter attack Douglas comes in - just misses. Cobblers counter attack with Wilkinson who ...... makes a hash of it, and slams it into the hoardings, much to everyone's amusement. Around 1,500 Cobblers supporters there and in good voice. 35 minutes gone and the Cobblers have been under the cosh, but are hanging in. Parrish to Hunt. Gibb goes in - fouled. Free kick to the Cobbs. Comes to nothing.

Steve at 20:20:46 Tuesday October 20 98
Hodgson having a great game - a brilliant clearance earning plaudits all round. Is he a permanent replacement for a soon to be departed Ray Warburton? Plenty of action with the Cobblers a bit more convincing. Is anyone there? Richard from Hong Kong? Ian Platt? Anyone else?

Steve at 20:15:55 Tuesday October 20 98
Evening all. This evening's commentary begins half way through the fiorst half with the bad news that we're 1-0 down, having had the most of the play. As so often this season, we've gone down to an unlucky deflection, this tome from a free kick. The Cobblers started really brightly with several attacks and one or two good shots from Wilkinson and Corazzin. Sadly the Cobbs have lost their way since the goal and Sampson has just been booked.

RICHARD at 18:12:42 Tuesday October 20 98
IK'CIWT: I lived in Bournemouth from '76 to '82; I met my wife in Bournemouth, where she was born; we married in Bournemouth and my daughter, Laura, was born there too; my parents and Ma-in-law still live in Bournemouth; I played hockey for Bournemouth alongside Dean Court, and on matchdays you could follow the fortunes of Bournemouth simply by listening to the crowd noise. Hell, I even stood at the home end supporting the Cherries! BUT does that mean they have to play to win, as if to welcome me back like the proverbial prodigal? They could have let us win instead! Anyway, I should have remembered to take a peaked cap, an essential piece of headgear for away fan at Dean Court as the sun, which beamed Mediterranean-like all afternon, shines direcly into your eyes. Fortunately I had my reserve driving sun glasses, a cherished set of early '70s Easy Rider ray-busters. "Elvis lives!". "The King is back!", pronounced a pair of post-prandial, pre-match piss-heads who staggered intoxicatedly past me, dazzled by the reflection from my CHIPS standard issue sun stuffers. After a few autographs for the short-sighted I steeled myself for the game. On came the lads, kitted-out in bright yellow, or so the boy, Christopher, told me, my Star Wars laser deflectors having filtered them out. That was the second shock; the first was that Razor, according to both the programme and the announcer, was playing. He even scored our goal according to some sources, a mighty feat from his hospital bed a few hundred miles away! It was, of course, Dougie Hodgson, deputising magnificently. As one of the Three Amig-Os, DobbO, SammO and HodgO, he was reminiscent of Razor at his commanding best and deservedly gets my MotM vote. It was more his imperious skills on the floor that caught the eye; the goal was merely a bonus, the Cherries on the icing on the cake, so to speak!It wasn't taken with the same skill, grace and panache as Heggsy's the week before v. Rovers, but who cares; they all count. It had looked from the outset that they were going to over-run us, especially after the Stein goal on 25 minutes, which was a corker. I was expecting a stern test from Bournemouth - at home, in form and having stuffed us out of sight twice last season. They were a reasonable outfit, it has to be said, especially Capt.Cox and Big Berthe! Heggsy got very little change out of them all afternoon; down the left or right he was tracked by The Beast of Bournemouth, who nearly received his marching orders in a flare-up late on, for excessive use of skill and strength. I wonder how much he would cost to bolster the midfield? Elsewhere in the middle, 'Roger' and 'Super' were energetic and industriouos but not too creative. Flanking the back three, Frainy, captain for the day, did his best to get forward and seemed to want to wotkhis way in to scor that elusive goal. Some day he's going to score a memorable stunner for us. Oh, yes. He already has. Wembley '97. Nice one, Frainy! Ali continues to draw double marking, but still managed a coulple of good runs and crosses. I feel we need to utilise the pace down the wings more. Not every team possesses the dynamic strength of Bournemouth's grim duo in the backfield. Woody is astar still, athletic in the box, his fingers must be black and blue deflecting balls over the bar with regularity.Up front appears to be where some of the trouble lies, so I took it upon myself to monitor the performances of both Wilko and Carlo. Now, contrary to some observers I would like to put my full support behind the two of them. It may not seem evident on occasions to the casual onlooker but, to my mind they do what is being asked of them in straightened circumstances, fairly well and at least with a good deal of effort. Wilko consistently wins the ball in the air and, after all, that is our favoured means of progress! He also tries hard to shield and lay off, which looks to be an order from the bench. Unfortunately, not all his delivery is accurately to head or feet of attendant Cobblers. But he is restricted in that there hardly seems to be anyone else in the strike zone when he nods one down. This focus on laying the ball off ad nauseam cost us a near-certain goal; in the box, a few yards out, the ballcame to Wilko and - instead of powering a net-busting header goal-bound, he nudged it to one side for Sean or Carlo, where it was pounced upon by the entire Cherries defence, with the poor, unfortunate Cobbler caught in the blender - Cherries crush a la Cobbler!! Still, he is trying. Likewise, Carlo. You would be sorely pressed to find a player willing to work harder for his team mates. He holds the ball up extremely well, and delivers a good lay-off for those around him. He may have only scored 5 goals, of which 3 were dead ball situations, but he still features among the top goal scorers. Again, with limited scope because of the player situation, team tactics dictate a different approach. The W Ham game at home was a one off. But our time will come. So, what next? Spurs at home in the W Cup. A pleasant diversion. The mad Hatters tonight is another 1 point opportunity. And on Saturday, "Once Proud Preston" come to fortress Sixfields. The Lilywhites are riding high; expect the unexpected!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Ray at 17:32:43 Tuesday October 20 98
2,939 to go!

Chicago Cobbler at 14:28:13 Tuesday October 20 98
Cheers Ray! Hope the Fire hat can bring you some luck. Unfortunately we play a similar style. Pack in the Defense, have a great Goal keeper, and make the most of our 1 or 2 scoring chances per game. Nearly every game we play is 1-0 or 2-1, although I think I'd take a string of Cobbs 1-0 Atko style victories about right now.

Hartwell Cobbler at 11:56:37 Tuesday October 20 98
Angry Cobbler - I couldn't agree more with your comments about getting a good midfielder into the side. But, when we do, what does IA do ? Continues to play the long ball from the back, everything sailing over the poor man's head. Dozell suffered from this, so would Warner. I also happen to be a Warner fan. I also believe we have some excellent players in the squad. What we need is a manager who is prepared to let them play from the back, build up through midfield, release our front men into the box with good, meaningful passes and using the width of the pitch more to square balls back balls from the byline. That way we'll see Corazzin and Freestone at their best - and we may also get goals from Wilkinson. We're not going anywhere with the present tactics. It's not about bringing more players to the club. It's all about getting the best out of what we've got. We'd be pushed, overall, to significantly improve our squad without spending the kind of money we haven't got. What we need are the right tactics. Can IA deliver ? Or is he forever locked into a long-ball timewarp?

James Eden at 11:48:23 Tuesday October 20 98
COME ON LADS, WE NEED A RESULT TONIGHT! 1 - 0 WILL DO

Ray at 9:46:55 Tuesday October 20 98
..... and the Chicago Fire hat will be attending the match as well.......

Ray at 9:43:17 Tuesday October 20 98
Well I certainly wont be going to Preston on Saturday - particularly as the match is at Sixfields :-)

Sid at 23:2:20 Monday October 19 98
Wow Ray, you have all the info don't you!!! don't worry, i am only jealous. That means my Newslog on my site is more up to date! Yeah, i suppose. It just all the javascript etc. its excellent! Anyone going Preston on Saturday, whats the ticket situation???

Ray at 21:36:7 Monday October 19 98
Well at the risk of blowing my own trumpet Sid - I think the Grimsby site fails to cater for the fans. This is their official site - they have no news earlier than 2 and a half weeks ago - ditto reports. It also makes extensive use of java - which not every one can use - and its damn slow - and cant be very popular because they've only had 7500 visitors - they also have two full time people working on it.

Bez at 21:14:26 Monday October 19 98
Oh yeah NEVER write off the Cobblers like you just have Hartwell Man , since when have they been a predictable side? Finally I bracketed Man City and Bournemouth with the rest of them because we should be winning against them. Man City aren't good, they are in fact an average 2nd Division side that need a proper manager before they will go where their massive fan-base will be at home and Bournemouth are turd. They are unimaginative and are worse than us in fact most of the teams are so buck it up Cobblers, we can still do it!

The Angry Cobbler at 21:12:50 Monday October 19 98
Who thinks Paul Wilkinson is crap? In the 5 or so games I have seen him play for us in he's just jumped around like a fool in the air, hoping to get the ball. If IA really still wants to play route one football, we should bring back Johnny Gayle. If I was IA, I would single out Wilkinson for all of our poor performances and pay him off a la Charlie Bishop. By my judgement he's only worth about 25p. I don't like critizing our players but he's really not very good. To be honest I'd rather Chris Lee plays instead of 'Wilko' who I think is just here to pick up a fat pay cheque every week. We need to play Michael Warner in midfield - I think he could be a really good playmaker for Freestone and Corazzin. With Sean Parrish working hard on the left, Roy Hunter just being class on the right and Ali Gibb making runs up the right flank we could be back up there. Five wins on the trot would take us into mid-table. We could manage five wins on the spin last season so we CAN do it again. I apologise about the rant but I don't want to see the Cobblers go down the khazi and back to the 3rd Div. again.

Bez at 21:8:52 Monday October 19 98
Oh dear, Heggs for Ł70000, Don't you just wish IA had that sort of realistic view on pricing. Ł1 million for Hunter, Ł1 million for Gibb, Ł500000 for Lee and you really think he'd let Heggs go for Ł70000? I don't, he'd probably ask Ł400000 if he got the chance. Remember he asked Ł50000 for Colkin when R&D offered Ł7000? Obviously not.......

Deepcut Cobbler at 20:58:48 Monday October 19 98
Have the facts behind the Warburton/Hodgson mistaken identity. About 2.30 their announcer said Frainy was skipper and Razor was playing number 5. Obvious mistake!! 2.55 he came on again and gave the right team sheet with Hodgy No5. Sounds like all the reporters, TV etc.. only heard the first anouncement.. And it was a definite penalty when Heggsy was felled. Ref was nearer than us!!! Homer again. Good goal from Stein, no chance for Woody but you wouldn't know that, their TV coverage missed it!! Ovengloves must have been moonlighting in a circus the way he balanced the ball on the back of his head. Can't make Luton but will be up PNE on Saturday.

Ben sturgess at 20:22:17 Monday October 19 98
I know an american who likes cricket........ He used to live near to me in Hong Kong when i was there..... he was even on the school cricket team....which he said was a case for the x files (or x fools if you listen to northants 96 where mix meanz variety.....) So what balls up did match facts do then? they said it was razors goal on ceefax, anglia and sky (so i hear), but today anglia have put rigt their mistake and given full credit to hogson however you spell his name

Kevin Simons at 19:39:52 Monday October 19 98
I may have a spare ticket and lift down tomorrow. Anyone interested give me a call on 01442-224269 before 15:00. I've just read Andy Roberts' report: what happened to the clear penalty (Heggs) in the first half - even the Bournemouth Pink said it was a penalty - and Frain's second half shot cleared off the line?

Sid at 18:40:39 Monday October 19 98
That Grimsby site is excellent!! Ray, you should take some ideas of their site, it is excellent. Anyone up for a chat after tomorrow's match??? if they are, come to my site at about 11pm, i should be online then. Might be able to get down to tomorrows match - in the Luton end!! I will just cheer if Cobblers score and get myself moved into the away end, just like the Man city game with their fans.

Hartwell Cobbler at 15:25:18 Monday October 19 98
Nowhereman - I have responded to Chris Marshall's request - leaving my comments on the Grimsby web site. So his request has not gone entirely unnoticed!

Chicago Cobbler at 14:45:8 Monday October 19 98
Ben, I used to work for NCR based in P*Boro, and couldn't see fit to support them. Went to both Wembley's, and have a couple of friends still living in N'Hampton. For the most part I've been able to keep interest through this site, and found that the NTFC supporters are some of the best informed and passionate in any sport. I also claim a love of Arsenal, but if the two sides were to ever meet, I'd be in Claret and cheering against the odds. BTW, Cricket is not played, or seen in any way in the states. Rugby does have a small following, although only at the University level. We like contact sports with loads of pads... Which reminds me, the Bears beat a far superior Dallas Cowboys side 13-12 on Sunday.

Chicago Cobbler at 14:30:19 Monday October 19 98
Fire Win! Western Conference Cup 2-1 in a penalty shootout. Now await winner of DC United/Columbus Crew in MLS Cup played at the Rose Bowl on Saturday, and broadcast on ABC Live (10 Million viewers). Sadly the weather was Sh*te and we only drew 35,000. Thanks to all who have sent e-mails of support. 2 Cup Finals left, and we are in both! What a season. Come on you Cobbs, follow suit!

Kevin Simons at 11:15:41 Monday October 19 98
I'll be happy if Hodgson gets credited with the goal, since I've got a bet on with Wilkinson's missus that he won't score 5 goals all season, and from where I stood it looked as if Wilko was the scorer. I also thought it was a pretty good performance on Saturday especially second half when Hodgson had a stormer. One question: IA was right about not getting two home games on the trot this side of Xmas, we don't, but 3 times we have two away games in succession, so what happened to the fixture computer? I heard Clarkson say on Friday that the leg break incident is in the hands of his solicitor.

Eddie K at 11:11:33 Monday October 19 98
Just returned home to Australia after seeing my first Cobblers game ever . It was the game against Rovers and apart from our defence at times I thought we played very well . Why can't we produce that kind of form all the time ? I also purchased a copy of Upton Way and towards the end of the book I noticed that a few pages had not printed , has anyone else had this problem ? Ray I think live commentary on the net would be a great idea so count me in .

Ray at 10:41:27 Monday October 19 98
The problem with video is that almost invariably these are almost invariably copyrighted and are nicked off the telly. If someone wants to do that on their site then fine - but Im not going to do anything here that may jeapodise this site being cut off.

Nowhereman at 10:40:38 Monday October 19 98
Isn't anybody going to respond to Chris Marshall's comments?

Cobbler Down Under at 9:54:17 Monday October 19 98
Ray, Yes live commentary would be great.I don't know how many Saturday games I could listen to as I rise at 5.00am on Sunday mornings(time zone hassles and work),but I would love to hear the midweek games played in the evening.I suppose if it came on line I could always leave work and retire so I could hear the matches but yet again I doubt the wife would let me.Speaking of which a very small joke for you! If a man speaks in a forest and there is no woman there to hear him is he still wrong? As an extra thought Ray I just saw the goals and sendings off from the Bristol game via their site,the first Cobbs action I have seen in eight years!What are the chances of getting this sort of download available? Welcome back from holidays Hartwell Cobbler.

Hartwell Cobbler at 8:36:20 Monday October 19 98
Ian - yes, I agree - this season's now a gonna for us in league terms. I expect we'll manage to survive - although I am by no means complacent. Indeed, I'm starting to hear that very worrying remark "we're too good to go down." Those making such bland comments should remember Man City and Stoke City last season - and it's happened to many more like them. I don't think we should be under any illusion that we are really not very good. Two wins this season - the facts tell the story. If IA's planning for next season, he should make the purchase of a proven playmaker top of his list and prepare to radically alter our approach to the game, holding and pushing the ball on from the back to give the midfield the chance to play the ball wide or release the forwards with good, penetrating balls to feet. Until we do this, Freestone, Corazzin and co will continue to feed off scraps and score only about half the goals of which they are capable. My worst fear is we'll get lots of changes next season, most of them no better than the ones we've already got, who will be hampered by our long ball approach.

Ian at 1:31:42 Monday October 19 98
I don't think you can rate Man. City and Bournemouth with those others Bez! City are a big club and will be near to promotion come the end of the season. I think Bournemouth will be right there as well, a very solid defence (shades of us last year) and now Boli to boost their attack. If they could get rid of Ovendale I would really fancy their chances. I think you will see some changes in the next few months as IA prepares for next season. I don't see us moving far above mid table this year, I reckon IA is already plotting for 99/00

hartwell cobbler at 22:21:33 Sunday October 18 98
Bez - Ł170-Ł200k for Heggs - if only! If someone offered Ł70k the club would probably let him go. On his day he can turn it on. But he's got two problems a) he thinks he's a centre forward and b) temperament. Incidentally did you know he he had a brother - just like him, apparently! I agree with you that all our forwards strike rates are pretty unimpressive (putting it mildly). But, again, I question the service these players get. After all Corazzin is a proven goalscorer. If he can net 17 for a team that gets relegated, he must have something in his locker. What he hasn't got here is any service. And that goes for Freestone, Wilkinson and (if we ever seen him again) Seal. We need a playmaker - trouble is, when we get one, we still persist in pumping the ball over his head. That happened last year with Dozell. Some say he is lazy. I say he is a cultured player who rarely got the ball played to him from defence and, as such, had few chances to feed the forwards. The bottom line are IA's tactics. While he has developed a strong defensive unit his persistence in playing the long ball from the back undoes all the hard work of back line does in winning the ball in the first place. My feeling is that, unless the system changes, we will go on struggling at the wrong end of the table this season. We no longer have a John Gayle to hold the ball up. Our game plan is now old hat and has been well and truly sussed by the opposition.

T. at 19:36:3 Sunday October 18 98
Hello Bez

T. at 19:35:38 Sunday October 18 98
Hello Cosmos

Bez at 18:7:32 Sunday October 18 98
Monkeymagic. Are you saying I didn't watch Terry Fleming? I think YOU should go back up your tree and continue to eat your bananas before you question MY views. Anyway good point on Saturday, Isn't it great to see Ovendale still hasn't got any better since he left the Cobblers. I mean how can you drop a cross at the feet of an opposing player? It seems to me that the qualtiy of keepers in Divison 2 is atrocious. Bartram, Jones, Ovendale, Weaver, Vaughan and Carroll have all been terrible against us this season and we have only scored 9 goals against these 6, a poor record. It seems Atkins' forward signings haven't been up to much. Corazzin 5 goals from 16 games and only 2 from open play and both were scrappy flukes. Wilkinson 0 from 7 games, Heggs 3 from 13 games and Freestone 4 from 11. These are not great stikr rates are they if we continue like this Freestone may score 10, Heggs 6 (If he stays), Corazzin 13, and Wilko 4. Pathetic really and our defensive incapabilities need some real work. We need to get 3 points off teams like Lincoln, Man City, Oldham, Wrexham, Blackpool and Bournemouth. I believe that our squad is good enough to beat these not pick up 4 points from the whole lot. If we need to score how about giving that Andy Morrow a go, 9 goals in 5 games for the youth team and we're going to offer him pro terms. Whats the bets we'll never see him? Finally Warburton is not the defender R&D want its Garry Hughes and we've not had any official contact from them (according to IA) and I don't think we'd accpet less than about Ł170000-Ł200000 for Heggs due to the spark he can give a side when he's on form.

COSMOS at 15:59:22 Sunday October 18 98
I'll be back later.....CIAO MIAO BAO

COSMOS at 15:54:19 Sunday October 18 98
anyone there?

Hartwell Cobbler at 11:58:36 Sunday October 18 98
Sid - yes, some central source such as the Press Association, probably feeds scores and scorers to all the major broadcast media. It may be that the Bournemouth programme, printed earlier in the week, listed Warburton and the reporter failed to note the change in filing the score/scorer. Still it made a small taking piont!

Ray at 11:10:53 Sunday October 18 98
If anyone is in favour of live match commentary - please could they email me so I can guage if its worth doing.

Ray at 2:14:18 Sunday October 18 98
Go on - admit it - its just a ruse to get your number of visitors up over 7000

Chris Marshall at 1:46:35 Sunday October 18 98
First of all, sorry about Wembley guys(and gals), I'm a Grimsby Town Fan and currently the whole town is debating whether GTFC should move to a new stadium or not. We know Sixfields is a relatively new stadium and would appreciate the opinions of Northampton fans as to whether moving to a new stadium (for a club the size of Grimsby or Northampton) is a good idea. Grimsby currently have the oldest stadium in the football league and, especially for those of you who have been there, its looking its age. Has it had a good effect on Northampton? Please access the GTFC site at www.gtfc.co.uk and select interactive>forum and tell us what you think. Your input as Northampton fans would be greatly appreciated. Thank you very much in advance Chris Marshall, Grimsby

Chris Marshall at 1:46:20 Sunday October 18 98
First of all, sorry about Wembley guys(and gals), I'm a Grimsby Town Fan and currently the whole town is debating whether GTFC should move to a new stadium or not. We know Sixfields is a relatively new stadium and would appreciate the opinions of Northampton fans as to whether moving to a new stadium (for a club the size of Grimsby or Northampton) is a good idea. Grimsby currently have the oldest stadium in the football league and, especially for those of you who have been there, its looking its age. Has it had a good effect on Northampton? Please access the GTFC site at www.gtfc.co.uk and select interactive>forum and tell us what you think. Your input as Northampton fans would be greatly appreciated. Thank you very much in advance Chris Marshall, Grimsby

Ray at 0:18:0 Sunday October 18 98
In answer to the questions about Sky and Ceefax - as far as Im aware they both use the same source - Matchfacts I believe

Leon at 22:38:49 Saturday October 17 98
Are the BBC totally useless? What next? If Wilkinson scores, are they going to credit it to John Gayle? What a pile of rubbish! Oh yeah, if anyone has Tottenham tickets for sale, mail me NOW!!!!! leon@netcomuk.co.uk

Sid at 21:42:30 Saturday October 17 98
I saw that about Warburton aswell!!! I dont know how you can be so wrong. Perhaps Sky and Ceefax copy each other for scores!!! I'm might be online for a chat later at my site, just scroll down to my earlier message. Speak to ya later!

Hartwell Cobbler at 20:41:58 Saturday October 17 98
Good result at Bournemouth, where we usually get nothing. But I'm a bit perplexed - Sky and Ceefax credited Ray Warburton with our goal. I thought he'd gone into hospital for his hernia op. I always reckoned Razor was competitive - but can even he score from a hospital bed ?

Ben at 20:31:41 Saturday October 17 98
Chicago cobbler: one question, why do you support the cobblers if you live in chicago?? and do you think cricket will catch on in the us?

Ben Sturgess at 19:45:50 Saturday October 17 98
Hmm we should be gratefull for every point the lord sends, but at this point we should really start winning!

Anon at 16:27:42 Saturday October 17 98
Im there now - where are you?

Sid at 16:26:8 Saturday October 17 98
yeah, no-one is coming in!!! I fyour still online, come to chat NOW!!!

Ray at 16:21:51 Saturday October 17 98
Well - I went to the chat room at 4:15 and there it was - empty.....

Sid at 14:27:45 Saturday October 17 98
Is anyone gonna come to chat??? The Cobblers Chat Room is now open, so come on, go to http://members.xoom.com/cobblers and click on the chat link!! All you need is a User Name!

Ray at 13:0:24 Saturday October 17 98
Unfortunately - that link doesnt appear to work James.

James Pritchett at 12:18:32 Saturday October 17 98
Thanks for the directions, see you on the 24th! Come on the PNE! Please browse here: homepages.which.net/~a.pritchett/Index.htm

Ray at 11:59:48 Saturday October 17 98
Yes he is T.......

T. at 9:1:1 Saturday October 17 98
Isn't Mark Ovendale at Bournemouth now?

amold at 0:49:31 Saturday October 17 98
Who is Sylvia? Where is she?

notold at 23:10:0 Friday October 16 98
Who's Terry Fleming?

MonkeyMagic at 20:19:3 Friday October 16 98
Bez:What do you mean get off YOUR website, anyway i used to go to the county ground to see Terry Fleming so i think i am in a position to comment. Get back to dancing in the style of a monkey instead of questioning my views.

Leon at 17:6:32 Friday October 16 98
Do you still have that ticket T? If you do, mail me @ leon@netcomuk.co.uk IF ANYONE ELSE HAS TWO TICKETS FOR SALE FOR COBBS v TOTTENHAM, mail me ASAP!!!!! Leon ps - Paul Wilkinson is shite. We should have signed that Rammell bloke - He's scoring for fun!

Paul Young - 'The Enfield Cobbler' at 15:30:52 Friday October 16 98
Jeff Sham - I know excatly how you feel, mate - I'm in the same boat. Tottenham born & raised but a Cobblers fan ever since I was eight (I'm Sixteen now). By the way - are you a season ticket holder in the North Stand? - I heard someone else who had the same problem moaning about it before the Man City game kicked off, just after the draw was made. Never mind anyway - It's going to be a nil-nil draw - An Atkins defence vs a George Graham defence. Dull as you like. Best of luck to NTFC anyway - "We'll Support You Ever More"

hartwell cobbler at 15:26:37 Friday October 16 98
Ian - you are quite right about Warburton and Heggs. My deep throat told me this morning that there's no chance of either going on a "free." You are also quite right about Heggs' temprement. If the club could get Ł100k offer they'd sell him for sure.

Sid at 15:11:39 Friday October 16 98
Hi, Just to remind you about my Cobblers Chat Room on my website. If your not going to the game tomorrow, why not come online and speak to other cobblers supporters while the match is playing!!! The Chat Room is open anytime but i will be in the Room on my website http://members.xoom.com/cobblers from 2.45pm. all you need is a Java enabled Browser e.g. MSIE4, Netscape 3/4 to chat. You also only need Your User Name (as i said just make one up!) your E-mail address and your Full Name. NO PASSWORDS REQUIRED!! So if your'e bored tomorrow afternoon, why not come online and CHAT When you go to my site there is a hyperlink on the very first page you come to , below the big hyperlink to get into the main part of the site . OK then, i will be speaking to most of you tomorrow, thats if you are not going down to the match that is! Seeyah!! Sid.

Jeff Sham at 15:1:10 Friday October 16 98
Is there ever a MATCHEW REAMSBOTTOM on here?

Jeff Sham at 14:57:6 Friday October 16 98
As a Spurs and Cobblers fan, the Worthington Cup fixture was a bit unsettling. Whichever team wins, I should be happy, but one of my teams will have exited. At the moment, I don't know who I'll be rooting for. But with Graham at Spurs now, maybe it'll be a 0-0 draw... And then things WILL get exciting!

Chicago Cobbler at 14:42:37 Friday October 16 98
Nowhereman, Chicago a.k.a. "the windy city" is called this because of our peculiar politics and Mafia arrangements during the 1920's. The city is also located on Lake Michigan which does cause lake effect winds and over time, people have forgotten why the name came to be. Oddly, it is particulary windy today with temps in the high 70's (f). We call our Soccer team "the Fire" after the Great Chicago Fire of the 1880's which destroyed most of the city. (and coincidentally was blamed on recent imigrants the Irish... A fictional woman named Mrs. O'leary had a cow which kicked a lantern over...so the story goes). "It's gonna be a hot time, in the old town tonight, FIRE, FIRE, FIRE!!!!"

Chicago Cobbler at 14:30:36 Friday October 16 98
Ben, Not sure who's older Cliff Richards or Keith Richards, I thought they both were dead. I've never met a Frenchman that reeked of Garlic, and the last time I checked your goal scoring lad's name was MichAEl Owen, although if his sister plays... I'm not saying that Football will catch on anytime soon in the States. But, to give you some perspective, as a child I played organized baseball and American football and never even knew what a "soccer" ball was. Nowadays, kids don't even play baseball. American Football is too dangerous for young kids... So, Soccer is all that is played. We even have a political term for the voting patterns of their mothers... "Soccer-Moms" who can sway an election! Less than 1% of the population truly care about soccer, and most are either from Latin America, or like me lived abroad. I support the Cobbs, Arsenal (Go easy on me, my best friend played on their youth team), and of course the Gods of Hellfire: The Chicago Fire! I grant you this, we would have a hard time competing in Nationwide British Football, but its only a matter of time. Our Keeper is Zack Thornton, who was good enough to make the Mexican National Keeper Jorge Campos return to Mexico. SEVERAL top Premiership teams have come to watch and try to lure him away. The rest of our squad is filled with Polish Nationals, Italians, and a smattering of young American talent. Tonight we are playing for a chance to compete in our version of a Premiership championship game against a far superior team from Los Angeles. We will prevail. Don't be so defensive about your game. The more countries and people that become involved, the better. Better games, make for better entertainment. So relax, toss back a pint, and UP the Fire & UP the Cobbs!! -CC

Ian at 12:42:11 Friday October 16 98
I didn't think there was any question of anyone going for free, talk was of 100000 for one or both. Obviously Razor isn't going anywhere until he has recovered from his operation. It will be interesting to see how Woody fares in his absence, it wasn't pretty last time. Heggs has probably gone as far as he is going, a second division journeyman is about as good as he will get. Yes he will have good games (and bad ones) and his temperament is a liability. If we could get 100000 for him we should take the money and run. Can't see either of them agreeing to go to the Conference though whatever the money. Heggs thinks he should be in the Premier, up two not down two. Players are usually very unwilling to drop out of the league (or even down a division, Seal could be playing for Plymouth now rather than being in the stiffs but he didn't want to drop a division let alone two).

Nowhereman at 10:42:49 Friday October 16 98
To Ben(Again), I know bugger all about US soccer, but Cliff Richard is old, the french have stopped smelling of garlic and who the hell is micheal owen (Was she the one in Eastenders?). Or am I missing the point. p.s. Chicago Cobbler is it windy over there?

Hartwell Cobbler at 9:56:39 Friday October 16 98
I don't think IA would let Warburton and Heggs go to Diamonds on a free and I doubt very much if either would drop down two leagues - unless the money was very tasty. It's more likely Diamonds have/will put in offers for one or both men. Even then I can't see how we could possibly let the lunchpin of our defensive unit leave. Heggs I'm not so sure about. He's an excellent player but his temperament is suspect. He also seems to see himself as a centre forward, when it's clear to any neutral observer that he's at his best out wide on the left with space. From there he can be lethal. But he's not a natural finisher. If he does go, where does this leave Seal ? Does he come back into the reckoning ? Or will be remain frozen out? I think IA must soon make a decision on him, Warner and Turley - give them a run or give them the chance to pursue their careers elsewhere. All have an abundance of talent that is too good to waste in the stiffs.

RICHARD at 0:12:51 Friday October 16 98
The Heggsy/Razor thing with R & D; it's a joke, right? We're not that strapped for cash to warrant such an absurd deal, surely. Put the price of the programmes up to Ł2.50; charge Ł20 a match ticket, but please don't offload my heroes!

RICHARD at 23:42:48 Thursday October 15 98
Ben(again: Have you seen Cliffy recently? My money's on the Barnburners!

Ben (again) at 21:31:55 Thursday October 15 98
Chicago Cobbler: The day US soccer as you call it catches on will be the day that cliff richard gets old.... the day the french stop smelling of garlic and the day micheal owen stops scoring goals

Ben Sturgess at 21:26:15 Thursday October 15 98
I refuse to beleive warburton would drop down to the conference when town are doing so well (if you overlook the poor start this season as a glitch)

Marvin Gaye at 21:20:15 Thursday October 15 98
I heard this on on the grapevine, from a Diamonds source. Fees for Heggs and Warburton have been agreed. I't just a matter of personal terms now.

Chicago Cobbler at 21:1:16 Thursday October 15 98
Where are all the Cherries? We get tons of hits from GasHeads...

Confused of P****borough at 20:19:5 Thursday October 15 98
What size pianist did he ask for then ?????

hartwell cobbler at 17:8:50 Thursday October 15 98
An Irishman, out walking one day in a remote spot, comes across a strange bottle lying on the ground. Inside he could just discern some movement. Fascinated he picked the bottle up and removed the stopper. Out popped a Genii. "I have been waiting an age for someone to come along and release me," he says. "As a reward I will grant you any two wishes you want. But please speak clearly as I'm a little deaf." The man bends down and whispers into the Genii's ear. There's a puff of smoke and the Geniie disappears. The man gathers his wits and makes for the nearest pub. He calls the landlord over and says:"Give me a free drink and I'll tell you the most amazing true story." The landlord is not impressed. So the man says:"OK, then look at this." And without further ado delves into his bag, takes out a tiny piano and puts it on the bar. "So what?" says the landlord. "Wait,I haven't finished," replies the man, going back into the bag and producing a small man, dressed in a tuxedo. He places the dwarf on the piano stool. "Now," says the man "if he plays for your guests all evening can I have a free drink?" "OK," says the bemused publican. So the little man starts playing, and gets the whole pub singing and dancing into the small hours. Eventually the landlord calls time. "Well, you kept your promise to buy me a drink," says the man. "Now I'd like to reward you a bit more. Make one wish and whatever it is, it will be done. But speak loudly." So the landlord makes his wish but doesn't raise his voice enough - and gets something completely different. The man with the bag says:"Well, that's tough. But you're in good company - I didn't ask for a 12 inch pianist?"

cynic at 9:33:6 Thursday October 15 98
What surprised me about the aforementioned fairytale on teh official website is that it didn't read: "It's not true. Full details on Clubcall"

Hartwell Cobbler at 8:20:10 Thursday October 15 98
Having got back last night from two weeks in the (very hot) Cyprus sun news of the win against Bristol Rovers immediately increased my "after-glow" factor. One evening in Paphos I got into conversation with a Brit living out there -- and he turned out to be a Cobblers fan! So that made my day. Before I get down to work I'm now going to read the messages for the last fortnight and get myself up to date on the gossip etc. Saw your note, Ralph - are you refering to the club's new PR man, Gareth Wilshire? If so, what's he been saying ? Was it about the Spurs ticket prices ? I did catch him on radio just before going away but can't for the life of my recall what he said.

Anon at 23:51:21 Wednesday October 14 98
I think they are all reading the Fairy Tale on the Official Site.

T. at 20:55:45 Wednesday October 14 98
it's very quiet at the moment, where is everybody?

Dave - Northampton Gas at 18:47:34 Wednesday October 14 98
Yes I did forcast a 2-0 win for the Gas and yes I thought we played an inept and ill disciplined display. The only consolation was the fact that again the Cobblers fans in the West Stand continued, to slag off the players even when you were winning. I hope you ALL have a great game against Spurs and why don't you SUPPORT the team for 90 mins like you did against us in May.

Bez at 18:21:19 Wednesday October 14 98
To MonkeyMagic and Paul. Fleming is a bag of bumhole and Drury is at least 6 inches too small to be even considered for the Cobblers. The point I was making was that both moves were completely pointless as all three are third division standard players now sod off back to your own poxy sites and leave us real fans to discuss OUR team on OUR website to talk about the merits of OUR players. Did anyone see Atkins reckons that there isn't a better striker than Wilko in the entire division? I personally don't agree. I mean Corazzin, Hayles, Rammel (Who unsurprisingly has scored 8 goals just to spite us because we didn't want him), Roberts (even though his discipline is terrible, remember Torquay last year?), Heggs, Harris, Aldridge, Bradbury, Goater, Crowe, Thorne, okay you get the picture. But it seems that we have got a hard working player here who will do anything to win. He may be selfish but he'll score a cracker in the next few weeks just mark my words. AS for Wilf- Can you make appointments with that PMA woman at the Cobblers Janet Knowles is it? It might improve my sanity and it might also make me believe that we'll be top by the end of May.

ck at 18:19:5 Wednesday October 14 98
I don't think Bergkamp would go and play in America because he would have to swim over there because he won't fly.

W2 Cobbler at 18:17:48 Wednesday October 14 98
Video clips of Cobblers goals on Saturday can be savoured courtesy of a Bristol Rovers website http://www.btinternet.com/~uk/BRFC/

Chicago Cobbler at 17:3:9 Wednesday October 14 98
Hey Harsh Reality, lighten up. Nobody cares about US Soccer over here either... You should though. Imagine the money and interest generated when American Soccer catches on. Ever seen our athletes in the Olympics? American Soccer stinks because the best American athletes play other sports, and we are left with has been's from old Euro teams and Latin America. When the money begins to roll in and we can buy players like Bergkamp, Annelka, Owen, etc... You will begin to take note of American "Soccer." This weekend we'll draw about 60,000 fans for our game. You do the maths. Mind you this isn't a threat, its a harsh reality. Oh, and if you don't like the messages scroll on by.

Ralph at 16:56:7 Wednesday October 14 98
Mr. Wilsher You need to go on a crash course in Public Relations. Perhaps me old buddy Dave in Hartwell could help. It all sounded a bit off on Radio Northampton to day, I'm afraid.

JEREMY RANDALL at 10:52:56 Wednesday October 14 98
Very impressed by the web site. A few questions: What does Atkins have against David Seal? Surely if the other strikers are not scoring he deserves a chance? Why do Luton insist on charging Ł13 for what they call a seat in one of the worst grounds in the country? I've heard even Man. City is cheaper than that!

Bob Husk c/-trevor at 10:36:1 Wednesday October 14 98
A great win on Saturday against Bristol Rovers .Looking forward to a few more wins and a big welcome to ? Savage from Millwall.Have been a Cobblers supporter since my days at Wellingborough Grammar School . Worked at the Midland Bank Wellingborough Northampton ,and Irthlingborough.(up the Diamonds).Rushdens results encouraging this year.Hope to be over in the not too distant future. All the best from Gosford, NSW, Australia.

Club sec at 9:22:17 Wednesday October 14 98
Err, that function is season-ticket-holders only until next March. On sale to the general public in 2002.

Ray at 8:23:25 Wednesday October 14 98
I'm not sure if anyone is interested but there are still some tickets available for the Halloween Party on 31st. October in the Sporting Bar at Sicfields. Karaoke and Disco and the chance to dress up and make an arse of yourself. Full details can be found at http://www.nh.xcalibre.co.uk.

T. at 6:35:38 Wednesday October 14 98
I only have one ticket!

Mike Walker at 23:25:7 Tuesday October 13 98
I REALLY WANT two tickets (together) for the spurs game - I will pay over the odds for them - Call me on my mobile (0467 257271)

T. at 22:20:55 Tuesday October 13 98
and make me an offer!

T. at 22:20:28 Tuesday October 13 98
I may have a ticket available for the Spurs match in the East stand, won't know for defo 'til middle of next week, if you're interested then post a message.

RICHARD at 22:16:43 Tuesday October 13 98
Ray, 17.32.44: I do my best to get to as many games as possible and I'm happy to post a report if you and the other contributors think my meagre effort is worthwhile. I try to give an impressionistic overview of the match as a whole, rather than a purely factual, blow by blow account; hence the occasional exaggeration and imtermittent artistic licence! It's costing me a fortune, both the games themselves and the BT charges online but, what's money when the greater good of the Cobblers' cause is the issue?

Ben Sturgess at 21:52:0 Tuesday October 13 98
Will the spurs game going to be televised??? If so can someone tape it 4 me? Cor could someone going to the game take a video camera? i dont beleive the tickets sold out so quickly, i guess its cos we have such a small stadium. I knew i should have bought a season ticket this year......

9224 at 21:41:40 Tuesday October 13 98
Yes, play Seal NOW. Also, I didn't think that Rushden wanted Seal, it was only Heggs and Razor (Dream on) that they wanted. There was no mention of Seal leaving

Deepcut Cobler at 18:19:20 Tuesday October 13 98
Counted five of us down at Reading last night to see the reserves including David Seal(remember him?) put on a good 1-0 win denied the deserved score by some fine home keeping. Sealy was unlucky to be denied a hat-trick by the keeper, so if IA is reminded that he still has our record signing and uses him he will do the biz. Is IA the only one who doesn't rate him?? Is he off to Diremonds?? First look at Lily and although he faded second half (understandable) he looks a good buy, putting his foot in all over the place (bit of a heavier Deano). Anyway is five for an away stiffs a record for this season?? Down to the bogey "Bournemiff" on Saturday, lets do them this time and get on a run up the table. Again we have no chance of seeing the Spurs game then!! Sky must do it!! Recommend the council go to the away league game at Madjeski Stadium and see what our ground should have looked like!! Cracking 25,000 all seater with extended leg room for all seats. Anyway see you at the Dean Court terracing on Saturday!!

pca at 17:49:45 Tuesday October 13 98
Just a matter of economics - I'd like to see him given a chance myself - but if Seal's never going to be picked again, wouldn't we be better off flogging him for 100k?

Ray at 17:33:54 Tuesday October 13 98
There are now Bristol Rovers piccies on the report page!

Ray at 17:32:44 Tuesday October 13 98
Do u fancy doing a report for all the matches

RICHARD at 16:42:44 Tuesday October 13 98
Having just watched the Nationwide highlights closely, I see the error of my eyes. COBBLERS' GOAL No.1: Heggsy's volley was first cushioned on his left from Carlo's header, then welted in aerial side-scissor style. Who says his shooting is woeful? That must be a candidate for Cobblers goal of the season.COBBLERS' GOAL No.2: It was Carlo, not Heggsy who picked out Cureton's hand so unerringly. Perhaps I should have taken the spec's offered by the disgruntled father earlier that morning!

RICHARD at 15:11:50 Tuesday October 13 98
IK'CIWT:(somewhat late, but the mists of post-first home win-celebrations have finally cleared)"RAZOR'S LAST STAND" or "GILDED LILY'S DAZZLING CAMEO DEBUT". ON THE WAY TO THE MATCH: The sun was shining ; the birds were twittering; I could feel it in my water; we WERE going to win! Mind you, on the way up, the boy Chris asked, "What do you think the score will be?", to which I replied, "2-1". "No really", he said. "OK, maybe 1-1, because they'll be all over us like a rash, to gain revenge". That's known as 'positive pessimism'! AT THE GROUND : Caught our first glimpse of Lily -looking good- at least in the pre-match warm-up. You know how some new signings look the part, and others -no names, no pack drill- just don't! Well, Mr Savage looks the bees knees. Good, also, to see Razor before his enforced lay-off, though when I spotted him, he was sitting on the ground. Now I know a hernia is no laughing matter, and I'm sure Razor was keen to play, but how was he going to produce a commanding swan-song, playing the whole of the game on his back-side? CROWD: A poor turn-out in the circumstances, c.6100, given the recent history of the fixture. Big gaps in the West Stand, and the away end of the Family Stand. Surely the no-shows weren't enticed away by the clashing Euro 2000 fixture? Who was it? Bulgaria and some other European light-weight! PRE-MATCH: I'd just laid out for a mug of steaming coffee and was making my way back to G56/57 of the North Stand, to instruct the lad in the dying art of passive fanaticism and how to glare at the opposition really fiercely, when I caught sight of Rovers doing the pre-amble to a Haka! Arms around each other's shoulders, bent over in a tight circle, psyching themselves up for the onslaught. I've not seen a Div. 2 outfit ever do that before; frightening; it looked like they meant business! GAME ON: From the kick-off the surged at us like the Severn Bore - no, not that nurd from Bristol who swore we were in for a hell of a beating. I mean the estuary tidal wave thing! - Anyway, for fully five minutes they were in the ascendancy - crosses, shots, near misses. But I wasn't worried. It was our Kismet (Hardy!). And, as if to underline my unshakable optimism, for the next 15 minutes we were rampant in attack. Yes, attack! The malaise is spreading through the team!! A bewildering array of moves from both left and right, from defence, mid-field and, glory be, the forwards. This was accompanied throughout by that famous refrain, "3-1, and you f****d it up; 3-1, and etc. etc." Highly amusing , but that's what started me worrying. Hubris before a fall! And sure enough, Rovers, with the unaccustomed luxury of 11 players on the pitch, together at the same time, go 1-0 up, completely against the run of play. As Rovers celebrated the early X-mas gift in the manner of a 70s dico version of the hokey kokey, the clanking of a large pin dropping could be heard by amused R & D fans - and they were away to Farnborough! Well, this was just too much for the doleful band of divots and lummoxes who, en masse, clambered upon their high horses and systematically rode rough-shod through the whole NTFC organisation. I resolved to sit it out, contemplating the meaning of life and praying that my water was, in fact, giving me the full story. We were going to win in the end, weren't we? THE TRUTH IS OUT THERE: Almost immediately after, we mounted an attack, the culmination of which saw Super Sean miss the proverbial barn door when it really was easier to hit the onion bag. This, closely followed by an amazing Frainy dribble through a packed defence - theirs, not our own - ended with a stunning shot against the post, led me to the undeniable conclusion that it was only a matter of time until we did the business. BUT HOW LONG? Only another 5 minutes, to be precise. On 29 mins. Ali crossed into the box, Heggsy the Hero, with his back to goal, took the ball on his chest, swivelled like Nijinsky, the ballet legend, not he Derby winner, and let fly with a screaming left foot volley into the net. 1-1 and all to play for. There followed sustained pressure! Heggsy who, along with Ali, was terrorising the Rovers defence down the flanks, put in a low cross. I'm sure he was aiming at Cureton's hand; it was that accurate. The ref, for perhaps the first time in the match, received a rousing chorus of sympathetic applause, although not unanimous, from a well-informed majority of observers. Penalty! Up stepped Carlo. Fingers were being crossed tighter than a witches gusset. Wallop. 2-1, and only seconds to go to half time. Great timing, and the wave of relief was tangible! INTERVAL IDIOCY: It took another 17 minutes queuing for my second mug of steaming coffee, with only slight relief coming from the 'car kick comp'. The first punter - a creditable paint-scraping effort from the Ł500 quid mark, deserved better; the second, a greedy attempt to snaffle the motor lined up from the centre spot, but saved the groundsman the bother of lowering the mower blades over that section of the pitch's embryonic daisies. But blow me down with an under-priced programme, he was given a second opportunity! I swear, if he'd landed this one in row W of the West Stand they would have given him the car out of sympathy! As it happened, he only managed row G, but the guy who caught and launched it back into play, should be signed up quickly, as long throw-in specialist until Roy returns! Presumably, as alaugh the announcer asked the assembled, if somewhat bemused Rovers fans, if he should "..have a go?". I didn't catch their response, but he took one anyway. Needn't have botherd. Made the second guy look like an ace-marksman! The coffee, by the way, was spilled in my haste to return to my seat in time to catch the next instalment of:- "HOW ROVERS LOST THEIR WAY, AND SEVERAL PLAYERS TO BOOT" The match took on a more end to end appearance after the break, with Rovers committing themselves to the win they desperately sought To be fair to them, if they'd come to play for a draw, things might have been different. The ref did his party piece - how to produce several cards in a short space of time for no apparent reason. I know how dificult a referee's job, can be at times; the boy Chistopher, earlier in the day, had reffed an under 9's touch football game and was nearly accosted by a parent, incensed by a decision he believed was unjustified. He offered up his glasses, in an attempt at mature humour, but slunk away into the crowd when I casually mentioned that the ref was, indeed, the fruit of my loins and was therefore incapable of making a wrong decision. But, have a heart ref; Rovers can scarcely afford any more misdemeanours and will be down to 'the suits' having to kit-up to turn out a full complement on match day, at the current rate of attrition! So 7 minutes of entertaining second half football and yellow card-brandishing have now passed. Another wing play attack with interchanging passing movements between forwards and defenders - this is surely the Div. 2 equivalent of the Dutch 'total football' ethos - and Heggsy crosses to Carlo, who holds it up and lays it of perfick, to Hunt the Shunt. In a near-carbon copy of the Rovers opener, James, 'The First', slots it, 'through the eye of a needle'-like, to rapturous applause and chanting, a variation on a theme, of "1-0, and you f****d it up; 1-0, and etc. etc." This time not only amusingly pithy but, devoid of concern that we were tempting Providence to intervene on Rovers' behalf. CAMEO PERFORMANCE: The remainder of the game was entertaining enough, secure, as we were, in the knowledge that we could only score more, and not draw or lose. I thanked my water for not playing a joke on me and appologised for ever having doubted it! In the 78th min, in place of Wilko, onto the stage strolled David Savage to the inevitable chants of "Li-ly, Li-ly". If he does nothing else for the rest of his career with us, I shall always hold him in the highest esteem for one moment of magic. Receiving the ball in the air (whence else?) and unaccustomed to this type of play, instead of playing pin ball or hoof the pigskin, he proceeded to play 'keepy uppy uppy' with his head!! Now it wasn't spectacular; it wasn't even a record number, but for sheer cheek, for having the balls on his debut, and for underlining the Cobblers' superiority, IMHO, it had to steal the show! Doug Hodgson debuted also, coming on in the final minute for Heggsy, whose return to the team, and to good form, in a MoM performance, can only bode well for the rest of the season, not to mention my e-mail address. Doug didn't head the ball like Lily; perhaps his gift is in his feet! Freestone replaced Carlo, 5 minutes earlier, so everyone shared in the victory. POST-MATCH MUSING: One swallow doesn't make a summer; Rovers were, again, a shadow of the team that ripped us apart in the play-off first leg. Why do we continue to have trouble playing against 10, or even 9 (if only briefly) men? Numerical advantage should translate to superiority on the pitch! Don't dare sell the 'H' man! Get behind the lads next week in the Worthy Cup v. Spurs; if you can afford it, get down there and give it "some of that"! See you in sunny Bournemouth by the sea on Saturday. We'd better put up a good show. My punishment for being allowed another w/e off household/family chores, is that I have to pick up Mother-in-law after the match and bring her home - FOR A WEEK!! Sometimes I ask myself, "Is it all worth it?"

Sid at 15:0:25 Tuesday October 13 98
TOTTENHAM GAME IS SOLD OUT!!! NOOOOOOO!!!!!!!! Somene tried to get tickets for me earlier, but it sold out while speaking on the phone. But I am high up on the cancellation list!! What does everyone think??? We need a bigger ground!!

lincoln cobbler at 13:29:34 Tuesday October 13 98
is the spurs game gonna be televised? i won't be able to see it else. i am stuch up in lincoln.

RICHARD at 12:24:38 Tuesday October 13 98
46,000 down; 4,000 to go before X-mas!

RICHARD at 12:21:59 Tuesday October 13 98
Deputy Dawg: Browns owner,Art Modell (the most despised man in Cleveland),shipped the team lock, stock and smoking gun, to Baltimore in 1996, simply for money and no other reason. In the process he disenfranchised several million true fanatics and ended long-standing rivalries with Division foes Pittsburgh, Cincinnati and Houston, not to mention Conference enemies,the Denver Broncos, who kept stuffing them in the AFC Championship games of the late 80s! Only the name remained in Cleveland. Baltimore (all ex-Cleveland players, plus a few veterans from other teams) became the Ravens. The good news is that in 1999 the Browns will rejoin the AFC Central Division under new ownership, but retaining the old name, having been guaranteed a new franchise by the NFL as part of the softener to the suicidal Browns fans for losing their team. "Bring on the Browns", as we Pittsburgh Steeler fans sing!!

Deputy Dawg at 11:9:31 Tuesday October 13 98
Can Chicago Cobbler please tell me why the Cleveland Browns Franchise moved to Baltimore and became the Ravens? Good win for the Cobblers on Saturday. A play off place still a realistic opportunity.

Paul at 0:7:44 Tuesday October 13 98
Bez - Ł60,000 for Carruthers and Drury ?? DREAM ON !! We rejected two bids of Ł100K for Carruthers last week. As for Drury, well add an extra nought and then you'd be a bit nearer the mark. Dunno what you're still whingeing about Adcock and Barnes for, it was our money that kept you afloat, you should be grateful.

Nosey Parker at 22:0:40 Monday October 12 98
Hi all long time no scandel well how about this then..........Heggs and ,or Seal will be a rushden player by the end of October!!! More news scoops whe I here them keep your eyes peeled and your mouths open

THE HARSH REALITY at 19:43:17 Monday October 12 98
To Chicago Cobbler: NOBODY CARES ABOUT USA "SOCCER".

MonkeyMagic at 19:42:16 Monday October 12 98
How dare you insult Terry Fleming, the man oozes class and it was him who hit the post against the cobblers earlier this season. Also you call him rubbish and then suggest buying 2 P'boro players.

Ralph at 18:44:29 Monday October 12 98
On the subject of players being sent-off; did anyone notice that the nice Mr Thorpe of Lincoln City was sent off the other week. For deliberately kicking an opponent.

Chicago Cobbler at 14:7:5 Monday October 12 98
Optimism springs eternal... Boy, what a different tone this week over last! Great result! On the states front: FIRE WIN, FIRE WIN! FIRE WIN!!! 1-0 against mighty L.A. A win at home on Friday and we play for the league championship!! A chance at a double in our first year in existence! Does it get any better? (oh, and I almost forgot to mention the Bears lost again...) WWW.Barnburners.com or WWW.Chicago-Fire.com Cheers!

Kevin at 10:56:5 Monday October 12 98
When will David Seal get a chance in the first team. Seal is ten times better than Wilko.

kevin at 10:47:47 Monday October 12 98
At last thank god we have finally won a home game. The team played great and heggs and corrazin ran the game. Dobson needs to get some speed but apart from that good game.

Wilf at 9:12:40 Monday October 12 98
Bez - You need to go on a positive thinking course. Do not worry about the misses by Frain et. al. Just wonder at our left back storming in to the opposing penalty box and rounding four players before crashing a RIGHT foot shot against the post! Always look on the bright side . . .

TRB Mark at 22:47:34 Sunday October 11 98
Well, Dave, Northampton Gas, waddya reckon? Your boasting came to nought eh? Support a decent side.

anon at 19:52:30 Sunday October 11 98
Has any one heard about two more rovers players being sent off in the tunnel after the match?

Ray at 19:51:12 Sunday October 11 98
There is now a fuller report of the Rover match in the usual place.

Ray at 19:49:37 Sunday October 11 98
I think Nosmo King got away with it as well.....

RICHARD at 19:46:1 Sunday October 11 98
Pompey Cobbler: I'm not sure about the ITV 7, but I know for a fact that Bill Stickers is innocent!

Pompey Cobbler at 19:42:50 Sunday October 11 98
I'm not that old . I was merely a bare foot boy with cheek of tan when I enjoyed Kent Walton on a Saturday afternoon. Did they ever free the ITV seven ?

Bez at 17:31:24 Sunday October 11 98
That latest news thing on the official site is crap. What's the point of going Northampton have done this, full details on Clubcall 0990 555 970. From Gareth Willsher. I mean we have the common deceny to go on their site just for some poxy ex Trust member to tell us to spend 50p a minute on the worst phone line in the history of club call lines. Just tell us the details you poxy git!

Bez at 17:26:33 Sunday October 11 98
Why would he want Fleming? He is absolute crap, totally uncontrollable and is another hoof and hope merchant. No quality at all. Now I reckon that we should offer Peterborough Ł60000 for Carruthers and Drury, that would get them back for Adcock and Barnes wouldn't it?

MonkeyMagic at 17:4:25 Sunday October 11 98
Lincoln are in financial trouble, so Atkins should make an offer for Terry Fleming.

T. at 16:8:43 Sunday October 11 98
You do all realise what this win means? It's the only match I've missed this season at Sixfields and we win, so if I sell my season ticket then we're guaranteed to win every remaining league match

Ray at 14:26:2 Sunday October 11 98
..... and Churchs China have promised to issue a commemorative "Cobblers Win at Sixfields" beaker.... so thats the pressies solved as well.

Santa at 14:22:29 Sunday October 11 98
I have just had a look at this years Cobblers christmas card whic is posted on this site I think it is brilliant. I am in AWE of such talent and can't wait until they are in the club shop cos I'm going to send one to all my friends

Anon at 13:11:25 Sunday October 11 98
You stayed in to watch England rather than the Cobblers? PATHETIC! You should be thoroughly ashamed of yourself!

Sid at 13:6:52 Sunday October 11 98
Finally!! We win!!! I didn't go to the game, because someone stupidly made me think England were more worth watching than the Cobblers. HOW WRONG CAN I BE!!!! Thats it. I must get to more home games this season!! (i have only managed a poor 3 games this season!!)

RICHARD at 2:12:28 Sunday October 11 98
It's late; I've just got in form a "function"!; I can't see straught!; I want my bod!! IK'CIWT will be posted tomorrow, sorry, later today, after I wake up. Oh no,I've just remembered: I have to mark the pitch and put the nets up for the Jarvis Brook Juniors U.14s first thing in the morning! Doh! My head hurts. Am I dreaming, or did we win?

Ray at 1:23:49 Sunday October 11 98
Kendo Nagasaki? Thats gives your era away a bit :-)

Richard from HK at 1:16:20 Sunday October 11 98
Hi Steve it just seems that way I guess... yes Blair was here, he is now very positive about the ex colony and the motherland... must be trying to get a a major contract signed!!!! Surprising what a win does isn't ?

Pompey Cobbler at 23:27:3 Saturday October 10 98
Hooray! I feel a whole lot better. Anyone up for a night out in Bournemouth next weekend after the game ? Or are we never to reveal our identities like Kendo Nagasaki ?

Steve at 21:28:48 Saturday October 10 98
Hello again, Richard from HK. Good to hear from you. Is it my imagination, or do you only get in touch when we're playing Bristol Rovers at home:-) How are things in the former colonies? I believe some geezer called Blair has just popped over. I bet they put the flags out.

richard from hk at 20:20:50 Saturday October 10 98
And before I go to bed why do so many Rovers fans still question why? Sorry but just pre - empting the crap I will have to read when I wake up.

richard from HK at 20:11:51 Saturday October 10 98
Oh ye of little faith.... get off the case and think positive.... see you at wemberleeeeeee

Ray at 20:0:38 Saturday October 10 98
OK - I'm feeling confident enough to predict 3 wins in the next 4 games.

Bez at 18:42:33 Saturday October 10 98
Yeah! One question. How did we miss so many chances. Frain taking on the kepper then hitting the post and their keeper throwing the ball at his own player and it falling to one of our players and we still missed, finally Parrish, How did you miss? One on one with the keeper and he saves it, and their keeper was dire. Another one up on those cheating, dirty Lincoln like scum. Rovers have now had 6 players sent off to our 1 and that was 6 minutes into the season. And they call us dirty! Gibb 10 out of 10 for artistic impression for that superb dive. Nice first touch Lily! Finally Congratulations to James Hunt what a well taken first goal. Thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you. (Hoddle must go!)

Ray at 18:10:42 Saturday October 10 98
See - I knew they wouldn't let us down. The season starts here!!! (I probably won't be making any more guarantees though)

To Bristol Rovers at 18:3:43 Saturday October 10 98
I think you Bristolians are getting too close to the Welsh, you are playing as crap as them now.

Ralph at 17:58:47 Saturday October 10 98
Just got back from the game. We were wonderful first half. Rovers scored against the run of play but the lads stuck at it. Great move and goal by Heggsy, is he really going to The Diamonds. Definite handball for the penalty, and Corrazin blasted it home. Hunt capped a great performance with a cooly taken third after great forward play by Carlo. Could have had more but who cares we won and won well.

Wilf at 17:54:40 Saturday October 10 98
There you go, see just what can be achieved by the power of positive thinking. No moans this week please. Lets look forward. Krishna! Krishna!

Steve at 17:50:14 Saturday October 10 98
Final score 3-1 to the Cobbs!! That's the way to do it. All I know is that Rovers were down to 9 men by the end. BBC Northampton described our performance as dominant and masterful. Sounds like the sort of performance a Tory M.P. would have enjoyed. Well done everyone. This just proves the point about positive thinking.

Anon at 16:48:53 Saturday October 10 98
Rovers are down to ten men, cue all out attack

Robert at 16:28:16 Saturday October 10 98
3-1 Hunt's first ever goal for The Cobblers! The team is as of last Saturdayy, but with Hunt instead of Peer. Freestone, Hodgson, Savage on the bench!

David Seal fan at 20:5:16 Friday October 9 98
Atkins has signed a defender, in dfoug Hodgson, who is an Aussie, is he a mate for Seal???

pca at 19:53:6 Friday October 9 98
The Hodgson signing is explained on the official website news as: "The Cobblers have made a second signing this week. Full details on Clubcall on blah blah blah" Surely if they're going to have a website it should be for information and not just to help them coin in more cash. What harm would it do them to say who it was? (Thanks for doing so Richard)

RICHARD at 18:31:9 Friday October 9 98
Doug Hodgson, a 29 year old defender from Oldham is the 2nd new signing and will be available, along with Savage, for tomorrow's clash with the Gas. According to Matchfacts he has played in only one game this season, 6 mins as a sub! Last season he was an ever-present in defence with an average rating of about 6.5, but he did have two 9s. Whether injury or contract dispute has kept him out of an average Oldham line-up this season, is anybody's guess.

SBJ at 17:38:17 Friday October 9 98
A guarantee from Ray is worth it's weight in gold. My chin is way up at the mo, not just because I'm on leave next week, but because I'm proud to support a great football club: Northampton Town. Things will get much better yet for us this season, I have no doubt about that.

Phil Sales at 14:38:55 Friday October 9 98
Keep up the good work

Ray at 13:55:5 Friday October 9 98
Come on chaps (and chapesses) Chins up - We're gonna win tomorrow, no problem! You have my personal guarantee!

Paul S at 13:19:4 Friday October 9 98
Richard, I think that Hunter's new injury has knocked the stuffing out of both the supporters and the team. With his return the team started to play like they believed in themselves and its no coincidence that our only league win and beating West Ham happened while he was in the team.

a at 13:13:32 Friday October 9 98
Save the Tigers

s at 13:13:1 Friday October 9 98
Save Hull City!!!

RICHARD at 12:13:20 Friday October 9 98
"Pride of the West" can be accessed at www.btinternet.com/~uk/BRFC

RICHARD at 12:7:51 Friday October 9 98
Just visited Gasheads site, "Pride of the West". It's worth a visit, if only to rekindle the nostalgia of last May's play-off result, about which they are still aggrieved! Saturday should be a good day out. Revenge may be sweet, but a home victory will be nectar!

COBBLER DOWN UNDER at 10:59:24 Friday October 9 98
Reference last sentence of last text sent10:21:47.Generilastion unintended did not mean to say "you all seem to expect" merely all the wan#@&s who do not understand seem to expect.By the way I have it on good authority (The Old Man!)that David Leck circa early 60's aka Mother!was in fact the worst Cobbler that ever donned the strip.For mine whilst they all have their good points Wakeley Gage was a shocker and Barry Tucker had something about him that only his mother could love.Where is Hartwell Cobbler?

COOBBLER DOWN UNDER at 10:21:47 Friday October 9 98
Richard@HEGGSY, Greetings in the name of Jah,what a wonderful interpretation on the current plight of our illustrious heroes.As long as "true" supporters are out there then our boys will prevail.What no individual seems to realise is that this is a team and the biggest part of this team is US.It is not time to slag off the Manager that all were hailing last year or the Players that were doing the business either,it is time to do what we can do and it aint play or pick a team!!!It is time to make your voices heard where they count and the only place where they mean anything and that is on the terraces."COME ON THE TOWN"I was born up the Hotel End and I'm proud of it no matter what or where we play now the only thing that matters is positve vibrations to the people who are good enough to do it and not just talk about it and that is the players in Claret and White.Support the poor bastards and get behind them cos when they salute YOU after a win it's because you helped them through not because you slagged them off until they had a win or took you on a day trip to f$%&#&g Wembley!There is only one Northampton Town RESPECT and cherish what you have get behind our boys and chant them from the depths we know up unto the heights that you all seem to expect.

Wilf at 9:54:45 Friday October 9 98
Do not underestimate the power of positive thinking. There is too much negativity flying around, this will influence the players.

pk at 2:52:31 Friday October 9 98
Cobblers played at Birmingham University last night. The score was 2-2 when we left. It was terrible. If that is our future we are in trouble. I think we lost in the end but I am nt sure as I was in the bar commiserating myself about the fact that our youth team are the worst team I have seen since John Barnwell was in charge.

RICHARD at 0:42:7 Friday October 9 98
Some of us already think the writing is on the wall. Some of us have prepared our excuses. Getting your retaliation in first doesn't ease the problem. The "Play-Off Loser Syndrome" is not a scientific truth, insofar as inevitability of relegation is concerned. Yes, we have had some poor results. And it's true we are suffering a seemingly large catalogue of injuries. Lady Luck certainly seems not to be on our side at present. But all this does not automatically equate to a season struggling vainly against relegation. I believe it has been scientifically proved that people who BELIEVE they are jinxed or otherwise ill-fated, do indeed appear to suffer a disproportionately high run of what is commonly termed 'bad luck'. But this is, apparently, self-perpetuating, brought upon themselves through lack of positive thinking. Well that's the mumbo-jumbo scientific-speak. In layman's terms, ie. the ordinary supporter, you only need faith, the right attitude, and an unquenchable belief in your team for the positive actions to spring from despair, to set the good times rolling again! The bottom line is, fortune (and, in this case, good results) is cyclical. When your team is doing well, you accept it without reservation, as the natural course of things. You forget that the season before you were struggling to stave off relegation and financial collapse. An undefeated run, a string of good results, bolster your confidence; a point away from home followed by threw points at home seems to be the norm, rather than the exception; there's an air of invincibility and inevitability. But the flip side to this particular coin can come along at any time! Look at the fortunes of the Cobblers over the last 5 seasons. We've come a long way and had some great times in the process. But what was our lot before that? A string of draws and defeats, last minute goals against, and ever sillier ways to snatch defeat from the jaws of victory. This is precisely what befalls the common football supporter. Few, if any, fans enjoy the luxury of unbridled success. Take Man Utd,for example. Relatively speaking, a defeat at Southampton on Saturday would have been disastrous; the equivalent of a run of 3 or 4 pointless games for us. But they won, laying a ghost in the process and will surely go on to complete a successful season compared to many clubs. But their success is entirely relative. For Cobblers fans at the moment success would mean avoiding relegation. I saw many games last season where we pulled a result out of the fire, some times not entirely deservedly! I recall feeling desperately disappointed with a poor result: a draw at home v Bristol Rovers, a defeat away at Wigan, because I viewed it as points lost in a season where we were riding high in the league. This season, I must admit to having "enjoyed" a number of the games despite the result. The spectre of relegation threatens our security and raises the intensity of the game. Notwithstanding some poor performances, I have been royally entertained. The win at Gillingham was like gold dust, simply because it was 3 points and away from home (not to mention the fact that we played particularly well on the night). What I'm trying to say is - get a proper perspective; support the team you love through thick and thin; speak with one voice, a positive one; get behind the lads on Saturday and believe in them. They feel as badly as you do and a rousing cacophany of tone-deaf vocal support is a million times more effective at raising the spirits of players and fans alike, than the rantings of a vociferous minority of foul-mouthed, slack-jawed, flat-headed, knuckle-scraping, uninformed morons whose only worthwhile activity is to pay for a ticket. So finally, forget thoughts of Swansea, Brentford, S***boro' et al; we will pull through this, starting against the Gasheads on Saturday. Be there, be proud, and sing your hearts out for the lads.

Anon at 22:3:56 Thursday October 8 98
I think its IA's new tactic...... this means that when we are relegated at the end of the season, all the excuses will be ready.

Ben Sturgess at 20:46:7 Thursday October 8 98
NACKERS! We have more injured players than we do fit players...... By the end of the season we will have to start signing under elevens if we keep going at this rate..... for gods sake why wont anybody stay healthy for more than two games...

BDB at 20:27:10 Thursday October 8 98
Just heard it on the radio, razors out for up to 4 months, double hernia op next week, need a good man at the back for cover - whatever happened to Brightwell.

dd at 19:31:27 Thursday October 8 98
aa

pca at 17:12:12 Thursday October 8 98
Aaaaagh! It says on the official site that Razor will be out for four months - more details anyone?

Shropshire Cobbler at 16:43:58 Thursday October 8 98
My quota of optimism for this season has completely run out. Atkin's aspirations to take the Cobblers into another division seem to have every chance of being realised ... we're going in the WRONG DIRECTION, Ian, please do a U-turn immediately. If we lose on Saturday I think I'll emigrate to Australia ..... Hang on a minute, we've signed someone under 30 - just hope he can keep the ball on the floor ...

Wilf at 16:29:33 Thursday October 8 98
Instant Kharma's gonna get you!

SBJ at 16:17:39 Thursday October 8 98
And definitely Save Hull City! Let Aldershot be the last of the league clubs we lose! Someone must have Ł2 million to spare? Branson?

SBJ at 16:16:13 Thursday October 8 98
I agree with Ray - I have a feeling the season will start on Saturday for us. Hopefully not with the same end result that Barnsley had last year though. Savage has a good reputation among some of my Friends Who Know, and as has been said, the international experience should show through (cf. Corazzin, and Hill usually). Rovers are a good team again this year, like last, and they'll be up in contention for promotion in May, but if we can avoid the habitual first-half substitution, and steer clear of the bad luck / bad play that's seen us give goals away stupidly (from that quick penalty vs. Stoke to the unfortunate own goal last week) then we should emerge on top on Saturday. Rain and a cruddy pitch would help us more than Rovers I think; maybe their epic against Bournemouth will have taken its toll a little. So, a close game, but Cobblers to win. Not willing to guess the score, but one goal will decide it. Btw, interesting aside from a Spurs fan I know, who is In The Know on Spurs things: he reckons that Pleat had planned to field a weaker team against us in the Worthy Cup (like Man Utd did against Ipswich a few years back), and to generally use the game to check out some of the players he thought Spurs should get rid of. No indication that Graham has plans to change this game strategy. Ipswich beat Man Utd 2-0 in these conditions - 4th round here we come?

Q at 15:58:34 Thursday October 8 98
SAVE HULL CITY

Ray at 14:16:30 Thursday October 8 98
Revenge for what? The opportunity to go to Wembley and get beaten? If so - you are quite welcome to take our place next time :-)

Bristol Rovers fan at 12:14:4 Thursday October 8 98
The Rovers are going to take sweet revenge on Saturday.

Aussie Michael at 10:38:26 Thursday October 8 98
Ok so its time for work. Is nobody around or just no wanting to talk?

Aussie Michael at 10:36:24 Thursday October 8 98
What do you people do for a living beside dump on your own team? But if thats what you, please don't let me stop you. It's something new for me over here! I'm chasing some Northampton pictures, photo etc. can anyone help me? I really want a view of sixfields. Thanks

Ralph at 7:56:12 Thursday October 8 98
Pompey Cobbler - Adie Mann suffered similar delusions to that of Martin Aldridge, he thought he had arrived on the world scene and it was only a matter of time before England beckoned. The last time I saw him was on a Sunday morning at Abington Park playing for a pub team.

Ralph at 7:52:39 Thursday October 8 98
Another lazy bugger who scored goals was John Fairbrother. In the days of mud pie pitches he ALWAYS finished the game as clean as he started.

Ray at 0:37:53 Thursday October 8 98
Well Don Martin was my personal "un-favourite" as I always thought he was a lazy so and so..... (hows that for a blast from the past?)

Pompey Cobbler at 0:35:36 Thursday October 8 98
Martin Aldridge was one of those players I never liked, even if he scored I was reluctant to celebrate. Adie Mann was another like that for me. Anyone else got any rational or irrational dislikes for Cobblers players past or present ? Please talk to me - I'm feeling a bit depressed what with one thing and another.

RICHARD at 22:30:9 Wednesday October 7 98
Not much from the Gasheads so far in the run up to Saturday.Is Lily eligible for this w/e? Are we going to witness the second coming? Will IA give the order to attack? All this and more when you tune in to - Cobblers v. Rovers - "The Big One II: This Time It's Personal!"

Ray at 22:19:55 Wednesday October 7 98
I have a good feeling about Savage and reckon that the season starts properly on Saturday. It'll be nice to see all the friendly Rovers supporters as well.

T. at 22:18:45 Wednesday October 7 98
Wilf, you're back from the dead? I quite agree with you Ralph on the Mrtin Aldridge front, he may be a player who will always score goals but he's a lazy b******

Wilf at 20:34:8 Wednesday October 7 98
There's nothing wrong with hippies man!

Bez at 19:49:53 Wednesday October 7 98
I heard about Savages knee problems as well but if he's got 5 international caps for Eire he must be as good as i think. Ł80000 is about right for him. I hear Millwall think its on the cheap side but we'll see on Saturday. You just watch him turn that pair of dopey gas centre backs who couldn't handle Heggs last season be mesmerised by Lily. As you can tell this signing has made me very happy. I just hope that someone can lay the ball out nicel;y to the wing backs for quality crosses and a classic Gayle-like header from Wilkinson. The other player wanted was Andy Harris from Southend but he's injured and is a hippy anyway. I don't rate him much.

Sid at 19:36:57 Wednesday October 7 98
Just a note to say my chat room will be working (well, it's not broken) on the 17th of October at my Site at http://members.xoom.com/cobblers You simply type in your e-mail address, user name (just make it up) and full name to chat!!!! This has been designed so you fans who can't afford away matches can sit at home and chat to other Cobbler fans while listening to the Radio and watching teletext! Speak to you soon!! Sid

Ralph at 18:26:54 Wednesday October 7 98
Oh and on the subject of Manchester United's youth policy, they are continually being fined tuppence ha'penny for poaching kids from other clubs, dangling the filthy lucre generated by Sky and a thousand and one different kit sales. I personally do not see MU as a role modle for any supporter unless you want to be seen as chinless, faceless, smug and self righteous. Ooh that should generate some hits Ray!

Ralph at 18:22:7 Wednesday October 7 98
Hello Oxford Cobbler - Yes it was me slagging off Aldridge and with good cause. Aldridge has or had an attitude problem that several managers found it impossible to address; Barnwell, Atkins, Smith, Shotton, Martin and blokey bloke at Ayr United. So it wasn't just an Atkins thing. Perhaps after looking in the mirror and realising that perhaps Blackpool was in fact last chance saloon the twonk has finally grown up! I wish him well, good luck to him, if he has finally realised what it takes to be a professional footballer. Only time will tell.

SBJ at 18:0:12 Wednesday October 7 98
Does anyone know where the list of available free transfers can be obtained? I suppose it might be restricted to managers etc, that's if it really exists as a list. Anyone heard anything concrete about the possibility of Cobblers v Spurs being shown on Sky? I guess it won't happen, especially with another upset / thrashing to come from the Cottagers being in the third round.

The Oxford Cobbler at 16:49:50 Wednesday October 7 98
To all those (i think it was Ralph and his Oxford supporting workmates but i appologise if i am wrong) who were happy slagging Martin Aldridge recently. I pleased to say that Martin is continuing to bang in the goals for the first team and reserves at Blackpool. Isn't a shame that Atkins continues to over look the youth at Northampton. Cosidering the sorry state the first team is in don't you think he could give a couple a game or two. It hasn't done Man Utd to bad has it! Then again who could be classed as a Giggs wonder kid, Warner is closer to 30 than 20.

The Outsider at 16:38:30 Wednesday October 7 98
I understand that Shearer is being signed this afternoon, IA is taking over at Leeds and Barry Fry has applied for the vacant position of Cobblers manager.

insider at 16:21:17 Wednesday October 7 98
dave savage will be a good asset for the club if only he can keep free from injury from a millwall insider he has problems with his knees give him a few games and he will be joining the others like clarkson hunter & spedding

RICHARD at 15:10:40 Wednesday October 7 98
Andy C: Your comments are welcome; you appear to have a finger on the pulse. In fact, it goes to prove that that knowledge is power! If only more of us took the time to ferret out this type of info, we'd all be much better informed and have a lot more to offer these pages. Keep up the good work.

pca at 14:35:42 Wednesday October 7 98
go on then, who do we reckon is the other mystery signing?

Andy C at 13:31:1 Wednesday October 7 98
Referring to the comments further down, I don't have friends in high places, I just spend time looking around various message boards (Fulham, Millwall, Brentford, Man City, Lincoln, Wycombe as well as this and Gills' on a typical day). Millwall's House of Fun had a message from someone who'd spoken to Savage and got the news that way - so I posted it here because I thought you would be interested. BTW, the Gills board is usually fairly quiet and this is one of the better boards I've found but I don't spend much time here, just have cause to post now and again. I simply like to know what's going on around the division, which brings me back to my original point...

Ian at 12:57:55 Wednesday October 7 98
From the official site:New signing for Northampton Town The Cobblers have signed Dave Savage from Millwall for Ł80,000. Savage is a 25 year old 6 ft 1 in midfielder who has won 5 caps for the Republic of Ireland. Full details currently on Clubcall 0930 555 970. There may be a further signing by the weekend. Watch this space! Gareth Willsher - Northampton Town Press Officer.

Ian at 12:32:8 Wednesday October 7 98
Revenge will taste so sweet. Beware the mighty Bristol Rovers. We did'nt want to go to Wembley anyway!!!!!

Ian at 12:15:18 Wednesday October 7 98
Shit, I was 44999 and 45001, so who was there in between?

Jim at 12:15:4 Wednesday October 7 98
Seems I'm number 45000. Don't I feel priveliged!! Congrats, by the way.

Ian at 11:59:40 Wednesday October 7 98
So it did last until lunchtime, eight to go, closest I,ve been to one of the "big" ones!

Ralph at 11:46:6 Wednesday October 7 98
What's the low-down on Savage? Is he any good? Where does he play?

Ray at 11:0:55 Wednesday October 7 98
The Official Site should now be working - apologies from Demon..

T. at 6:44:49 Wednesday October 7 98
57 to go

Ian Cole at 5:6:53 Wednesday October 7 98
Hello people, Please visit Soccer Boards - a brand new website in association with Stat-Mail that provides a comprehensive service to all football fans worldwide. The site includes: - four automated message boards (one for each division) - 'jokes page', 'they said it' and 'I hate the others' - comprehensive links pages for each division - individual stat-mail stats page for every football league club including records and runs, results, progress personalised to your favourite club - results, tables, form guides, attendance charts, stats, plus loads more - all stats, tables and results are updated within hours of matches Check out the site now at http://welcome.to/soccerboards/ or alternatively http://www.btinternet.com/~uk/soccerboards/soccerboards.html Cheers, Ian Cole iancole@btinternet.com

Ian at 4:12:53 Wednesday October 7 98
62 to go. Maybe it will last until noon when I wake up?

Ian at 0:56:34 Wednesday October 7 98
Ray, the official site seems to be sulking tonight. Is this because a big signing is imminent or have they gone to ground because we are not doing well? Congratulations on the soon-to-be 45000, which will no doubt occur while I am asleep.

Northampton Gas at 22:45:37 Tuesday October 6 98
Hi, great to see nothing has changed on this site. Bad language, wingers and moaners still abound. Well we are back to avenge the result in May and no Gayle to contend with. Prediction Gas to win 2-0 to record their first away win this season. We managed to beat Bounmouth 1-0 with only 9 men so cannot see any problems this time round. Dave (Northampton Gas)

the Blands at 21:36:27 Tuesday October 6 98
Poor display by the reserves last night against Portsmouth

T. at 21:33:4 Tuesday October 6 98
92 to go, will I be up early enough to make it?

monkeymagic at 21:15:52 Tuesday October 6 98
Also, don't get too excited over the french triallist,Maige or whatever he's called. He used to play for Ayr.

monkeymagic at 21:14:27 Tuesday October 6 98
be careful of andy c, he obviously has friends in high places.

Chicago Cobbler at 20:32:52 Tuesday October 6 98
Ray, I finally was able to get the hat... Much like when the Cobbs win, there is a run on the merchandise. It's on its way to the address you sent. Cheers, CC.

Ben (pissed off) Sturgess at 19:52:27 Tuesday October 6 98
Mark what have you been saying to steve (neal) about me eh??? watch it or receive an ass kicking........

Bez at 19:8:59 Tuesday October 6 98
Oh bugger that sodding keyboard!!!!!!!

Bez at 19:8:4 Tuesday October 6 98
106 to go. That means 190 people have visted today!

Bez at 19:6:15 Tuesday October 6 98
Cheers Andy C- but may I ask, not being overly nasty but why would you a Gillingham fan want to be on our site all the time? Is it because of Ray's superb guestbook, the fascinating views or just that Gillingham haven't got a decent web site? As for Steve, I am not IA I am glad I'm not because then I would have to be the 2nd most boring manager in the world behind George Graham. Don't get me wrong he is great for the club and we've done ever so well without him. But surely the game of footie should be played like the great Liverpool sides of the late 1980's not hoof and hope. As for this Dave Savage bloke I think Ł100000 for a man who can't make thge Millwall first team is steep may be Ł60000 would be more accurate. If anyone wants confirmation on this story and you live in E Anglia page 175 on Teletxt has a quote from Keith Stevens the Millwall manager. Know I wonder if he can put his foot on the ball........

Andy C at 16:58:20 Tuesday October 6 98
Dave Savage - you heard it from me first. And I'm not even a Millwall fan let alone a Cobbler. Up the Gills!

Anon at 15:22:36 Tuesday October 6 98
Bye

Chicago Cobbler at 14:52:15 Tuesday October 6 98
Loads of Joy! The Fire win!! The Fire win!!! Semi-Finals are next after a thrashing of Colorado in front of what looked like 10 fans. Follow the action as a first year club strolls through the MLS playoffs at WWW.Barnburners.com & WWW.Chicago-Fire.com !! Cheers all!

Aussie Michael at 14:24:12 Tuesday October 6 98
Its 11:15pm and check out time for me here in Australia. I just thought you all would like to know that Australia lost an international match to New Zealand 1 - 0 in front of a crowd of 859 people. Yeh, don't we just love our football(Soccer in Oz) email me is you can sometime and sent me anything you want. Its had to keep up with Northampton from over here. Thanks!

Steve at 14:13:55 Tuesday October 6 98
Boy At Large - thanks for the insight into Ray Warburton's route to the top. My Dad once went fishing with Dave Bowen, and in the early 70's I was a left back blessed with the finesse of Ron Harris; I used to play on Sunday mornings for the Bold Dragoon Strollers. Do you think I might have a future in the game?

insider at 14:9:59 Tuesday October 6 98
dave savage on route from millwall to cobbs for Ł100k- club record?

Aussie Michael at 13:55:54 Tuesday October 6 98
Hey! Throw some insight on Northampton my way!

Andy C at 13:9:13 Tuesday October 6 98
Word on the street is that Ian Atkins could be in line for the QPR job. This sounds a lot more plausible than Leicester, but even so...

insider at 12:44:51 Tuesday October 6 98
if martin o'neill goes to leeds united dont be suprised if ian atkins jumps ship and joins leicester city as they also work on low budgets

The Boy Large at 12:25:47 Tuesday October 6 98
Just found out that one of the blokes I work with lived on the same street with Ray Warburton when he was a boy. He reckons he wasn't any good at school level, but got a break as his dad was well in with Ronnie Moore (now Rotherham manager) and got a trial that way.

Nowhereman at 9:49:27 Tuesday October 6 98
Do you remember that programme about space with Carl Someone who used to go, welcome to the cosmos.

Steve at 9:6:21 Tuesday October 6 98
Bez - I don't know who you are, but I just LOVE your astute analysis of where we're going wrong. Any chance you can get a copy through to Ian Atkins. Perhaps you ARE Ian Atkins, just practising your pre-match team talk for Saturday. Anyway, whatever - keep it up.

T. at 22:50:20 Monday October 5 98
No, T goes to look up train times for Friday, now T goes to bed!

COSMOS at 22:28:26 Monday October 5 98
T goes to bed....and me too...see you....goodnight at allllllll

COSMOS at 22:24:11 Monday October 5 98
T where are you now? Another time at the toilet?

COSMOS at 22:21:28 Monday October 5 98
I'm sorry for my bad bad ...and F....ING English....i'll must study....

COSMOS at 22:17:56 Monday October 5 98
this is my first time in this site.... I'm here just besause I'm an old friend of Carlo (corazzin)... what do you think about Carlo's perfomans?

T. at 22:13:40 Monday October 5 98
Irthlingborough, Northamptonshire, sorry for the delay, just had a toilet break!

Anon at 22:11:27 Monday October 5 98
T where are you chatting? I'm chatting from Treviso... near Venice

COSMOS at 22:9:5 Monday October 5 98
I'm sorry T but this evening my PC is too low...I think there're some problems....

T. at 22:6:30 Monday October 5 98
I'm bored

COSMOS at 22:5:13 Monday October 5 98
cosmos say hello to T & GHA

T. at 22:4:8 Monday October 5 98
Hello Cosmos

COSMOS at 22:2:35 Monday October 5 98
hello from Italy...Anyone there?

T. at 22:0:53 Monday October 5 98
I can remember when I was 25000

GHA at 21:55:3 Monday October 5 98

Bez at 21:3:34 Monday October 5 98
Ray- Your clock is STILL wrong. This is just not good enough!!!!!!!!

Bez at 21:2:25 Monday October 5 98
Only 293 more hits and the 45000 mark has been reached. Come on lads next Tuesday's the target!

Bez at 20:58:29 Monday October 5 98
I'm not pessimistic, I just think that we need a player to hold up the ball and stated a lot of facts. Dave Savage as I remember from last years match against the Millwall was their best player. He was quick and took the ball around Brightwell every time. In fact I was so impressed with him I named him as one of my best ten opposing players last year. Only Kennedy (going forward), Mickey Bell, Kevin Donovan and Corazzin (but thats because I always shat myself when he was on the pitch because the nasty little gnome (as I knew him at that time) scored every time) scared me more. AND we can make numerous Lily Savage jokes like Leicester do Whoopie! Some fun and games coming if we sign him! Division 2 obscurity here we come!

ben (again) at 20:7:48 Monday October 5 98
apologies to tony dobson........ im just damn fustrated!

Ben Sturgess at 20:3:12 Monday October 5 98
in reply to the pessimistic cobbler, i think that bysome miracle town win every game and get automatic promotion....... pray to jesus........... jesus=>leave me alone!

Chicago Mark at 19:23:23 Monday October 5 98
Bears solve Jinx and win 31-27 over Lions... Fire play Colorado tonight and lead the best of 3 series 1-0. Sad notes about Sat. game, but it is a long season and talk of relegation seems premature. A couple more wins, and we'll be back in the middle of the table. Oh, and to ANON: Musical taste is subjective, that's why there are so many radio stations... Cheers all!

Ray at 17:31:1 Monday October 5 98
Gail - why not join the email group? You'll get more mail than you can shake a stick at.

Gail Dunkley at 15:35:54 Monday October 5 98
Please will someone email me and keep me up to date with the cobblers? It is no fun stuck at Sheffield Hallam uni and living just down the road from Bramall Lane

treenie at 14:29:53 Monday October 5 98
I've just sent them an e mail and Hopefully I will get a response. Thanks a lot

Ray at 13:18:11 Monday October 5 98
Have you tried emailing the club at secretary@ntfc.co.uk Treenie?

treenie at 13:6:56 Monday October 5 98
After being away for a week it's nice to know that I've found some people that watch Dream Team. Anyway I'm no nearer on my programme search. Any helpers?

Ray at 12:10:23 Monday October 5 98
Dave Savage is a 6'2" midfielder - hes only 25 so I cant see him getting into the side :-)

Andy C at 11:53:18 Monday October 5 98
P.S. I would be smug about Dobson's own goal but the Gills very nearly lost to Macclesfield and there's not much left to look forward to.

Andy C at 11:50:22 Monday October 5 98
News from the Millwall website House of Fun (generally devoid of interesting comment) is that Dave 'Lily' Savage told a supporter at the Supporters Club meeting on Saturday that he expects to sign for Northampton in the next few days and play in central midfield. Don't know much about him myself but he's played in defence, up front and on the wing for Millwall, their fans rate him but he hasn't had a run in the side since McCarthy left.

TRB Mark at 10:58:7 Monday October 5 98
Er, Bad news Kevin Simmonds. The Programme for the Spurs game will be 2 quid. This price rise was voted for by the Trust membership. B. Stonhill gave the fans the chance to vote for a better but more expensive programme and most people were for it. I abstained as I rarely bother with them, so don't blame me.

gtfc fan at 10:0:51 Monday October 5 98
one - nil, to the Mariners! Div. 1 one is so cool. Bye bye div 2!!!!

T. at 22:45:24 Sunday October 4 98
Well as I'm probably missing Saturday's match we'll probably get our first home league win of the season and I'll never be able to use my season ticket again.

Dont check out This great football site at 21:41:36 Sunday October 4 98
http://www.usamedicalinc.com/europunk, unless you want to be totally confused about American Soccer stuff - I did and was

adrian butler at 21:40:25 Sunday October 4 98
Good luck for this season after an excellent saeason last year. I live in Dorset now after years of following the team at the County Ground. Am trying to sort out a trip to Bournemouth or other local 2nd div team.

Ray at 21:16:53 Sunday October 4 98
Dinnae panic laddies! I have the feeling that the next couple of weeks will see us back to winning ways.

Bez at 19:19:0 Sunday October 4 98
A good old fashion back to the walls relegation dogfight is in the offing. How predictable! The question we have to ask before this is the words on everyones lips is Do we have more heart, pride and passion than Luton, Swansea, Brentford, Cardiff, Chester and Peterborugh? All of these have reached the play-offs and in the next season mucked up big time. The teams simple problem is we've conceded 15 goals this season this time lasdt season we had conceded 5. Then compare this to our 10 goals for against last seasons 12 and you have your answer. We can't play without Hunter. This is our biggest problem. He is the ONLY player in the ENTIRE SQUAD (Damien Matthew is not included because I've only seen him 4 times) who can hold up a football, put his foot on it then look up. Parrish, Hunt, Peer, Gibb, Warner, Frain and Spedding have all shown this season they are incapable of doing this. Some are good players others are good workers. It still says we have a distinct lack of quality in the ranks. So what does Atkins do? He tries to sign Andy Harris a 3rd Division defender on loan. Why doesn't he look in the lower leagues, Southampton signed up Mark Paul, a quality player who holds up the ball. Who is the Kettering midfielder Leeds wanted on trial? he might be good for this. Paul Mason is the other player mentioned and we've had him on trial but he is as good as Hunter in all respects except he is better at getting injured. We can no longer do anything except 110% effort, that means in ALL tackles, ALL runs, ALL passes, ALL shots. If the don't go in so what. Is it just me or do the opposition always get more shots on goal than us? And why is that? They SHOOT ON SIGHT, it is simple but people score. Hunt, Hunter, Parrish and even Peer have proved they can score from distance. So come on Cobbs you're good enough just be patient with your passes and when you see goal SHOOT and the goals will come. Dfenders keep it tight, we've three centre backs who should have Warburton man marking one forward and Sampson on the other with Hill sweeping which is his job not marking a player when Sampson and Warburton go walk about. Also how about instead of hammering the ball out of the ground whenever the ball is played over our heads we control it turn and play a nicely weighted pass to the midfield players so they can turn and put the opposing defence under pressure. The forwards need to show more life and do some weaving runs and crossing this is done by COMMUNICATION,something the team seem incapable of doing. Agianst West Ham we proved we can defend like Gods and against Oldham we proved we canm play football now DO it!

Steve Adams at 15:38:38 Sunday October 4 98
Did anybody see Lenny Henry goes to town last night if that wasn't the best advertisment for northampton as a city and as a Footballing center of excelence I don't know what is.

Steve Adams at 15:38:37 Sunday October 4 98
Did anybody see Lenny Henry goes to town last night if that wasn't the best advertisment for northampton as a city and as a Footballing center of excelence I don't know what is.

Steve Adams at 15:38:34 Sunday October 4 98
Did anybody see Lenny Henry goes to town last night if that wasn't the best advertisment for northampton as a city and as a Footballing center of excelence I don't know what is.

Sid at 14:6:37 Sunday October 4 98
My mistake!!! The sounds on my site are available at http://members.xoom.com/cobblers but go through the normal channels because I want some registered visits!!! The link is on the left hand side of my main page, (contents) and under the word "NEW" is sound clips. Clcik on there to download some sounds from Yesterday's match!!

Sid at 14:0:49 Sunday October 4 98
Could someone mail me the situation regarding tickets for the next 3 home games, Bristol, Preston and Spurs. When can non-season ticket holder WITHOUT 6 vouchers get their tickets???? I haven't heard anything about these things for ages!!! Thanks!!!! Sid

Steve at 12:45:22 Sunday October 4 98
...........not to mention the brand new china dinner service.

Kevin Simons at 12:43:29 Sunday October 4 98
Well that was as bad it gets. Only around 200 fans by my reckoning, an indication that interest is well and truly on the wane and people are voting with their feet as performance after performance away from home makes one question "is this what football is about?". Any armchair supporter who rants on about "look where we were 5 years ago" and "look what Atkins has done" should travel away and then they'll realise that exactly where we are heading...back to Div3. I see no-one took up my wager that Wilkinson won't score 5 goals all season. He's now played 3 games and hasn't even forced a save! We simply have to scrap the back 5 policy and go for wins, since a point a game will now see us relegated. If you follow the adage that a manager should only bring in players better than those already in the squad then the 20 grand paid for Donkeyson would have been better spent on a new tannoy and scoreboard. Just one other point about Spurs ticket prices: to the club's credit, programmes in Div 3 are now Ł1.80 everywhere, but still only Ł1.50 at Sixfields, which is a saving of six quid over a season and more than enough to cover the price increase.

RICHARD at 8:1:40 Sunday October 4 98
T: If you mean, did we buy a lounge suite, then the answer is ,no. BUT - we're getting closer. It's now a straight decision betwen the high-backed, squidgy, bunrt-orange affair and the low-backed, firmer-supporting, Kelly-green collection. Then, of course, there's the wallpaper to consider.......!!

Check out This great football site at 1:52:59 Sunday October 4 98
Check out This great football site http://www.usamedicalinc.com/europunk Enjoy

T. at 22:32:43 Saturday October 3 98
Richard,was your trek successful?

T. at 22:31:45 Saturday October 3 98
The Wigan website is pants

T. at 22:31:4 Saturday October 3 98
We only need to win a match and if the results around us went our way we would move up about 4 places.

T. at 22:29:57 Saturday October 3 98
I've a ticket available for Saturday's match, if you're interested post a message. It's in the East stand and you could be helping the course of true love.

Pessimistic Cobbler at 22:29:24 Saturday October 3 98
So, relegation dog-fight it is then.

A fan at 22:23:1 Saturday October 3 98
Although at this moment I hate everything about Wigan I must admit the website is v. funny

nat at 22:9:13 Saturday October 3 98
The T bag, Were you in that queue for the tube as well?

RICHARD at 20:30:1 Saturday October 3 98
I just want to say that I am hit number 44444.

RICHARD at 20:27:50 Saturday October 3 98
pessimism n. - tendency to look at the worst aspect of things or expect bad results

RICHARD at 20:3:39 Saturday October 3 98
Just returned from 6 hours lounge suite road testing. Enough to try the patience of a saint. Having avoided the scores all day, I felt the urge to write a fictitious IK'CIWT report. You know the sort of wishful thinking thing: "Cobblers Peer beats Wigan Pier - After a lethargic start to their post-Wembley campaign, Town surged into 'Latics like Hurricane Georges laying waste to the Florida Keys. The one-sided display, not witnessed since Custer's Last Stand, overwhelmed the hapless northerners. Wave after wave of Cobblers' sweeping attacks pressed forward on the besieged Wigan goal, like proud Zulus cresting the hill at Rourke's Drift." That was the theory, anyway. But I couldn't resist a quick peek at the score on Teletext, and the bubble burst! What is it with us and teams beginning with 'W'? No goals at Walsall (well, one dubious disallowed goal, then) but at least we secured a point; no goals at Wrexham where, by all accounts we were lucky to get even nul point; we do score at Wigan, but unfortunately at the wrong end! Again, 0 points. Watch out for Wycombe at home on 7th November. My prediction: Wycombe gain their first 3 pointer of the season, with a 3-2 result, thanks to an own goal, a disputed penalty and a 5th minute injury-time ricochetted winner!!!!

Ben Sturgess at 19:58:23 Saturday October 3 98
well we need some more central defenders to add to the 50 we allready have, why not sign tony dobson, forget the other better players who are dying for a first team place (and score in the right goal.)

Sid at 19:50:56 Saturday October 3 98
Bloody Wigan!!!! Why is it we lose 1-0 away on a Saturday afternoon. It seems customery for us to let in a goal, then chase the game, without scoring. We score to level the match about once a season, but that was Notts County at Home. I think i would win loads of money if i put on a bet on every away game. What do you think???

Sid at 19:44:43 Saturday October 3 98
I have some wavs from today's game at Wigan for you to listen if you come to http://members.xoom.com/cobblers/sounds.html at about 11:00pm tonight. I shall try to do this for every game i do not go to. BBC Radio Northampton provide the commentry.

Vegas Cobbler at 19:13:50 Saturday October 3 98
Apparently it was a Tony Dobson own goal - just what we don't need at the moment.

steve at 17:11:57 Saturday October 3 98
wigan 1 cobbs 0

Ian at 16:54:47 Saturday October 3 98
Soccernet seems to be malfunctioning, would someone please post the score?

Steve Adams at 13:47:43 Saturday October 3 98
N.S.B is................................................................................................ Please leave your thoughts on this matter at this site.

Sid at 11:50:16 Saturday October 3 98
Haha!!!! Just been to that "Wigan Website" It a Load of C**P!!! If you go there, you'll here a sound at the start that seems to be speeded up. First prize goes to the one who can decipher what the bloke is saying! Don't forget to visit my website!!!!!

T. at 11:33:36 Saturday October 3 98
Call that a website? What a joke.

Anon at 23:2:38 Friday October 2 98
Chicago Cobbler, I'm sorry but your taste in music takes the word sad to new levels

Ernie Wise at 22:45:12 Friday October 2 98
Will someone please ask what the DNA is

Chicago Cobbler at 21:46:39 Friday October 2 98
Ralph, Great record. Unfortunately I have a Japanese version with only a standard cover, and black & white lyrics. I do have a copy of the Stones Sticky Fingers with the actual jeans/zipper on it. That rates up there as one of my all time favorites. I think that a record provides a familiar warmth that has been lost with the advent of CD's (of which I admittedly own many). I like the friendly pops and hisses. Perfect digital sound was not meant for Neil Young or Emerson, Lake, and Palmer/Powell. It was meant for POP like the Spice Girls and Michael Jackson. Sorry about the music chat, but there isn't much ado about football on a Friday eve. Good luck tomorrow.

Ben Sturgess at 20:51:10 Friday October 2 98
I agree with what was written in the chron the other day about the ticket prices going up for the cup tie. Anybody who moans about it can just f*** off cos its pretty damn obvious that your not interested in seeing the cobblers play you just wanna go cos its premiership opposition.

Steve at 20:40:46 Friday October 2 98
For a good laugh, visit Wigan's Wonderful Website at http://web.ukonline.co.uk/badger/wigath.htm

Nowhereman at 19:26:57 Friday October 2 98
Come to think of it I reckon there's Brighton as well overa longish period.

Ralph at 19:6:21 Friday October 2 98
Hey Chicago - Did you ever see the Yessongs gatefold sleeve? it was a triple album and the cover was about four feet long, lyric sheets and posters and stuff, felt like you got your money's worth. So long as you kept your vinyl scratch free the sound quality was vastly superior to that of CD.

Ralph at 19:2:49 Friday October 2 98
Keep calm 'Cobbler Down Under' - It's better to say something than nothing at all. All the guff about bands and non-footy stuff suggests there ain't much going on. And guess what? there ain't! Most of what needs to be said has been said, so a little digression and chit chat is all good bonding stuff. I trust you'll give us the insider info on the forthcoming ashes tour? G'day.

Anon at 18:53:9 Friday October 2 98
keep it up!

pca at 17:21:34 Friday October 2 98
anybody there got a C&E yet - what's the expected team for tomorrow?

Anon at 16:5:34 Friday October 2 98
If only Wigan Athletic were as much of a comedy act as their website (the one accessible through the NTFC fixture list on this page as opposed to any official one I've not yet bothered to visit) we'd win 10-0 tomorrow. Easily the funniest website I've seen for a club.

Sid at 15:16:42 Friday October 2 98
Thanks for Visiting my Website..... added a few more hits on it!!! It's at http://members.xoom.com/cobblers Richard, dont know why it greeted you with that many hits!!!!!! Any website can only dream of such publicity!!! There is a Newslog oin my site now which will give the latest News every day!!!!!!!!!

Chicago Cobbler at 15:16:29 Friday October 2 98
Results: Fire win first ever playoff game in a shootout (which is kind of like a penalty shootout, except you start out further and can dribble for up to 5 seconds before shooting. Cobb Down Under, relax a little bit. There are still plenty of good chats that go on about proper football, and loads of room for it. In the last listing, we had rumors of Woody and Heggs departing. That alone should spur along some debate. Not to mention a cup game against the most hated team in London (So sue me, I support the Gunners)... Me, I have more fun just reading about all of the comments, and keep quiet on my Cobbs views out of respect for others who obviously know more. I only chime in to let everyone know that I'm reading... That and to say that world went to sh*te when albums went to CD's, anyone long for a gatefold cover double album of Frampton Comes Alive?

RICHARD at 14:35:52 Friday October 2 98
SBJ: Sorry. Can't oblige with a IK'CIWT report on the Wigan game. It's too far, too cold, too wet and my back-ache hasn't cleared sufficiently to allow me to drive to 6fields, catch the Trust Bus and suffer further hours of agony cramped up in a seat (unless I can buy up the whole of the back row to stretch out on!). I'm reliably informed by my social secretary, that this Saturday I'll be accompanying her hunting for a new lounge suite. The existing collection of moth-eaten, dog-chewed, drink-stained 70's Dralon (TM), is not so much on it's last legs, as completely on the floor! I love shopping!!!!!!!!

SBJ at 14:11:59 Friday October 2 98
Cobbler Down Under: I'm as much to blame as any for the digressions into non-football chat, and agree that the Cobblers, and football in general, should be where this page is at. I don't think there's any harm in the cultural digressions at all however, though the recent spate of apparently juvenile messages (cf. Stuart Lutter) is unwelcome. I don't usually have much to contribute to discussions on specific games as I can't get to many, so I also value the regular contributors' football discussion as almost my only source of Cobbler info. As someone who's proud of the achievements of Cobblers teams playing before I was even born, I also take pride that we've got one of the most relevant, discursive and generally great football chat groups around. With the debates on team line-ups and individual players, and on the fortunes of the club both as a footballing unit and as a business concern, we've got something here that most clubs can barely hold a candle to (particularly some of our rivals). We musn't lose that. And so Ricky Kane kicks us off again with the view that Woody could be on his way back to the Prem. At the start of the season it sounded more like Woody would be sidelined in favour of Billy Turley - how's BT doing in the reserves I wonder? I guess the Gibb / Hunter going to Rangers rumours went away, but surely someone with money must have been tempted to buy after their recent performances? Could we afford to lose them? Would Hunt and Matthew be able to fill holes if we did? Perhaps IA should be keeping an eye on the non-league scene for cheap replacements if not - Backwell, Pershore, Sutton, Rushden, Tiverton: the quality at these minnow clubs is on the rise and I'm sure someone with IA's track record for bargain buys would have no trouble picking up some replacements if Ali and Roy were released. Also, will the Wigan game will see the Cobblers upturn we've been waiting for, and which has seemed likely on several occasions recently? A full IK'CIWT report would be good to read (from Richard or anyone else). In the meantime, for Down Under's sake, for me, and for the good of the club we all support, does anyone have anything decent to say?

Baz_g at 13:58:42 Friday October 2 98
We need some f****ng money for some new players to fill up the squad and start challenging this season, because face we have had a pretty sh** start to the season!!

Nowhereman at 13:49:44 Friday October 2 98
I think Swansea, also went from fourth to first and back, also actually topped the first for about half an hour.

The T bag at 13:47:1 Friday October 2 98
Yes Yes I was at Upton Park , you know took fecking 4 hours to to get home . Looks like we are going down this season , unable to win .

Ricky kane at 13:16:4 Friday October 2 98
I was at the west ham match and i think woody is deffently at prem standard and will soon be going

COBBLER DOWN UNDER at 12:37:41 Friday October 2 98
I have witnessed an awful amount of bickering about ticket prices and bull*%$t about bands and without wishing to put down the importance of it half decent reports from Chicago Cobbler regarding his ball game,when are we going to talk about the Fu*$%@g Cobblers again.To keep the visitors register clocking over and draw new visitors to this site,which after all is dedicated to the only club in the history of the Football league to go from Fourth to First and back again half decent debate needs to prevail.The talk during the close season was far more interesting all that is coming on line now (gross generalisation,apologies to those who talk football),is drivel and belongs in the boozer after kick off with the other dregs.Twenty six years of following these heroes tends to make me feel that if you can't accept what Northampton Town Football Club represents,YOU,and that Town supporters inevetibly have to put up with being skint then piss off and follow Kettering! Would someone please talk about the Town and what is happening with them football wise as it is a bit hard to understand when you are on the other side of the world!!

Ray at 11:21:52 Friday October 2 98
OK - I've done a bit of weeding....sorry for by absence... Im currently visiting sunny Burnley.

J at 10:3:49 Friday October 2 98
I've heard a rumour on Teletext that Heggsy is planning to leave if he doesn't get a first team place. Does anyone out there know anything about this? PLEASE write if you know anything. Also, does anyone know if Ray is fit for tomorrows game?

West Brom sympathiser at 8:42:19 Friday October 2 98
A 'Baggies' fan! Remember the Albion, with their 'No Smoking' sponsorship in the 80s, and the Big Hair of Moses and Anderson? And when did they stop being the Throstles anyway? Ta for Hunter, we like him. I want WBA back in the top flight, if only to keep my mates in Worcester happy.

Conrad Chircop at 8:28:3 Friday October 2 98
Very good presentation of the Web site ...keep it up & good luck for this season....oh, if only my club West Brom kept Roy Hunter.....he seems to have turned into a good player with Northampton !

RICHARD at 0:28:11 Friday October 2 98
It appears that the "Stuart Lutter" devotee has usurped these otherwise laudable pages for some other purpose. What can it be? Possibly to run a large print-off of the name on a few reams of copy paper in order to use the offending and mind-numbingly puerile material for the best place for it; ie. the smallest room in the house for appropriate application where the sun don't shine! Sincerely yours. Disgusted of Crowborough

Gavin at 21:22:1 Thursday October 1 98
What the hell is going on? I thought this was a Cobblers/football chat page. Not some bizarre nutters page! Piss off and leave us alone!!!! We used to be happy....................

lonely at 18:32:1 Thursday October 1 98
where is everyone today? have the children scared you off?

Jim at 14:5:48 Thursday October 1 98
It's time it seems, Ray, for another bit of 'gardening'!!

SBJ at 13:30:31 Thursday October 1 98
Cheers to Andy C and The Boy Large for the J.White info, and Paul Schofield for Man City. Can't get to Wigan myself, so it's another day down at Sky pub for me. Can watch Ruud Gullit's 'sext football' tonight though, for what it's worth. Thinking of pubs, is there a Northampton brewery (other than the Carlsberg one of course)?

Voice of Reason at 13:21:11 Thursday October 1 98
Ralph? Hartwell Cobbler? Richard? Ray? PLease, get some of the regulars back on the guest book, it's getting a bit juvenile to say the least. Who's going up to Wigan on Saturday? A second away win or a miserable wet sock?

Steve at 13:0:21 Thursday October 1 98
Thanks for the message, have you read my one to Stuart?

emma at 12:58:51 Thursday October 1 98
hi steve adams

Armchair Supporter at 12:49:48 Thursday October 1 98
These armchairs are great....

Anon at 12:48:1 Thursday October 1 98
Stuart Lutter and some foxy chicks I can see You.

The Boy Large at 12:45:8 Thursday October 1 98
Awright, Steve......

David Pleat at 12:44:6 Thursday October 1 98
Er, you don't need a half-time orange boy down there do you ???

All and sundry at 12:42:32 Thursday October 1 98
Hi Ray, Hows Your wife, still up on the computer banging the keys all night. I know, I can hear you.

Steve at 12:32:44 Thursday October 1 98
The Boy Large: fancy a chat

concerneb preson at 12:31:21 Thursday October 1 98
iyam dislecick anb iy fink fat all them jowkes t terrribul and iye hayte theym. pleyse remoove theym.

The Boy Large at 12:30:27 Thursday October 1 98
Regarding Jason White - always in the right place, but couldn't hit a barn door from one pace.... I know a Rotherham fan, and he rates him highly up front with Glover..

concerneb preson at 12:30:11 Thursday October 1 98
iyam dislecick anb iy fink fat all them jowkes t terrribu

Andy C at 11:37:11 Thursday October 1 98
Yes SBJ, Jason White did play for the Cobblers. I'm a Gills fan and can remember him loping around up front a couple of times against us. A bit of pace and fairly big - always a useful asset in the Third - but not too much else to recommend him as I recall.

SBJ at 11:19:44 Thursday October 1 98
Can anyone tell me whether Jason White (ex-Northampton, now at Rotherham Utd) ever actually played for the Cobblers, or was he just 'in the squad'?

concerned person at 10:58:16 Thursday October 1 98
If there are any more dyslexic jokes I shall report this site to the DNA

Anon at 10:34:31 Thursday October 1 98
Dyslexic Old MacDonald had a farm - i o i o e

Paul Schofield at 10:12:56 Thursday October 1 98
Yes, just like your the real Barry Norman

Mark Downer at 9:52:47 Thursday October 1 98
Come on lads you know that your better than what the league position says, so lets move up the table.

The Don at 9:49:57 Thursday October 1 98
Come on lads you know your better than what the league position says, but we would love to see you win at home this season in the league. P.S Atkins your shit, get a new manager you defensive git.+

T. at 6:48:10 Thursday October 1 98
Anon, I can't do that as I'm a teacher and the Spurs match is during half-term week.

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