Poppies From The Terrace...A Different CM4 Dynasty

[Chief Rum]

I once saw someone here undertake this, but they didn't get far. I thought at the time that it was a brilliant idea, so to whomever first came up with it, my nod to you.

Now here's the deal. I'm going to do a Kettering Town dynasty. But it will all be done from an outside perspective. I will use fan perspectives (both at the ground and in any number of other areas--at the home by the radio or watching the telly, at the pub, who knows where), radio and TV accounts from a listener/watcher's perspective, and newspaper/Internet accounts.

There will be no inner thoughts of managers and chairmen except what gets out to the public (through various channels); no ratings by the number (those don't exist in real life--just qualitative measurements); and what information is followed is essentially chosen by the fans/newspapers/sources accounted for in this dynasty--who are all clearly biased to local and national football only.

The primary fan I will center on will be a 34-year-old booking agent named Peter Tenford, born and raised in Kettering Town and a Poppies' fan for life.

For those of you not aware (given most of you will be Americans, so probably most of you ;) ), Kettering Town was just promoted to the Nationwide Conference from the Southern League, a lower non-League (note the capitalization) table. The Poppies actually stayed there just a year, after being relegated from the Conference in 2000-01. Prior to that relegation, Kettering had been a regular member of the Conference for 30 years. They have never won promotion to the League.

Kettering Town is about 130 km northwest of London, more north than west. It's an hour by rail, and about an hour-and-ahalf to two hours by auto.

You'll meet Peter next.

Chief Rum

[Chief Rum]

June 13, 2002

Greetings, all.

My name is Peter, and I am a Poppie supporter. I was born and raised right in this very home in Kettering Town. Apart from doing some schooling in the City, I have lived here the whole of my life. In fact, the Tenford name (that's my surname) in the area goes back to at least the 15th century, or at least that's what my great-aunt says.

I make my living as a booking agent at the local Wicksteed Park. For those of you blokes who aren't aware of it, Wicksteed is a leisure park nearby here. In fact, it was the first of its kind, opened in 1921. It's for the kiddies for the most part, although we have some stuff for the parents too. I'm responsible for scheduling events at the park. You know, Kidney walks, Old Folks' Days and the like. I do a lot of Poppie promos, of course, but I never seemt o talk to anyone over there besides their PR department.

Kettering is a nice, small town, just the way I like it. Northampton isn't too far away, and it has some size to it, and the City is an hour away by rail. We're close enough to not be in the middle of nowhere, but far enough away to not be affected too much by big city life. We're just north of the Midlands area, and it's simply beautiful here, I think. Plenty of unspoilt countryside, and good, earnest people.

And we're all footy fans, particular of the Poppies, the local club since ole Queen Victoria had dark hair. The Poppies started up in 1872, and my great-great-granda was a fullback for those early squads, to hear tell of it from my own late granda. My father's father was a funny man. He said his grandda was a lean, fierce man and a hell of a player by all accounts. But years of marrying fatty wenches from Northant (that's Northampton) have deprived us Tenford males of our more skilled physical attributes, leaving us mostly a dumpy lot. I couldn't disagree-- I am dumpy looking, too.

I was practically born in the terraces of Rockingham Road. Literally. My mum went into labor at a 1968 home match with Bromsgrove. My granda said my father confided that he would donate me to an orphanage if Kettering lost that match, and set me up for life if the Poppies won. It was a draw, of course, so da never knew just what to do with me.

Rockingham is the home ground of the Poppies, in case you didn't figure that out. It's old now, but it's holding together okay, after a few revisions over the years. I spent much of my formative years there, and when I returned from London to take on my current job, I went pubbing with some of the younger players, and bought my first season tickets. I have been a ticket holder since, and am a 29-year member of the Kettering Town Poppies Supporter Trust (my da signed me up).

The name of Peter has been a bit of a curse for me of late. It turns out that bloody wanker Peter Morris, the old manager that got us relegated last year, shares his name with me, much to my horror. And to heap it on, the chairman, Peter Mallinger, or The Mallingerer as I and others have taken to calling him, is also sharing my name whilst running the club into the ground. This is his 9th year as club owner. So, many of my closest fellow Poppies fans have taken to calling me Tenford instead of Peter. Given there are about 7-8 male other male Tenfords, including my da, in the area, that can be a problem, but I have learned to deal with it. I just blame The Mallingerer and that bastard Morris.

The Poppies have just returned to the Conference, the top semi-pro league, after an exciting run in the Southern League this past season. Unfortunately, despite that success, the club is ina muck right now, because former player-manager Carl Shutt had a falling out with The Mallingerer and got himself sacked. It's very upsetting, because he was a leader both on the pitch and off. He singlehandedly turned around Morris's side and got us back to the top.

Now I am left to wonder just who they think will do a better job at this point. The season is fast approaching, and we need a manager.

Peter Tenford

[illinifan999]

Why do I keep reading Poppies as Poopies?

[Chief Rum]

Originally posted by illinifan999
Why do I keep reading Poppies as Poopies?

That's your problem, iilini. :)

CR

[Chief Rum]

June 13, 2002

I was nursing a Guiness after work when Bobby Radcliffe sat down across from me at the pub.

"Pete," he said--he was one of the few that still called me by my first name," have you heard the news?"

"What's that?" I asked, ready for some Radcliffe tale that blows things way out of proportion with their actual merit.

"You know Murray Chatham, the caretaker's assistant at the Rock?" he asked, with some excitement.

"'Course. What of him?"

"Well, he was sodding some new grass by the east end of the ground, when he saw The Mallingerer and some of his flunkies show up," Bobby said, before his eyes narrowed mischieviously, "and they had someone with 'em he didn't recognize."

"Really?" Hmm, maybe Bobby had something after all. "A new manager?"

"Murray didn't know, but the new guy was definitely getting a grand tour of the facilities," he said. "The Mallingerer didn't introduce him to Chatham, of course."

"Murray is practically a charter member of the Trust, and he's seventy-something years old. Are you sure he didn't recognize the chap?" I asked, surprised. "Ida thought there wouldn't be a single manager or coach above the Southern and Midland leagues that he didn't know by face."

"He said he didn't, Pete. Maybe the guy isn't a known name."

Touché, Bobby.

"I guess we'll have to wait until the announce something before we figure out what's going on," I lamented. "Those buggers working for the Malingerer are tighter on things like this than old Arse's D."

Peter Tenford

[Chief Rum]

June 14, 2002

Bloody Hell!

Northampton Chronicle & Echo

Poppies Hire Unknown Manager

KETTERING-- Kettering Town FC board chairman Peter Mallinger announced late last night that Matthew Kieta, a relative unknown in the football world, would be taking over the reigns of the Poppies for this upcoming season.

"We are very pleased with this hire, and think that the supporters will be pleasantly surprised at the quality of job Matthew Kieta will bring to the position," Mallinger said in a phone interview.

Kieta himself was not made available for comment, but Mallinger said he is in town and will be introduced to the townfolk and media at a news conference scheduled at 2 p.m. today in front of Rockingham Road's main entrance.

The hire was announced with an evening hour press release, before the nightly news could get it, but Mallinger insisted the late announcement was merely a coincidence and was in no way an effort to shirk the media spotlight that normally accompanies such a move.

Mallinger said a factsheet would be distributed detailing Kieta's experience at the press conference.

Well regarded midfielder Shaun Murray, reached at his offseason home in Newcastle, wouldn't commit to an opinion on the new manager.

"I haven't heard of him," Murray said. "But I am willing to give him a shot. We need a manager, with Carl [Shutt] gone now, and I have to think this late in the season, the pickings are slim. I'll meet the man and then we'll see."

Murray is expected to be a field leader for the Poppies this year, especially with Shutt having been sacked. Shutt led the Poppies back to the Conference last year as a player-manager, but reportedly had a falling out with Mallinger near the end of the season that led to his firing.

Supporter Trust chairman Dave Tailby could not be reached for comment at the late hour.

What on Earth is going on?

[Radii]

Nice :) I'll be reading with interest!

[Chief Rum]

Thanks, Radii. I hope I can keep it interesting. BTW, to any and all readers, I'm not above taking suggestions about what to reveal. If you want to know something, and I don't have a better reason to keep it quiet, let me know and I'll get it leaked to the dynasty somehow.

Chief Rum

[RonnieDobbs]

Excellent idea CR. I personally prefer it being done straight, with no reference to things an average fan would know. It'll then be like following a real team; you wouldn't know your striker is a 16, for example (oh god I hope that SAAP guy doesn't read that :) ), you'd only know that he's considered one of the best strikers in the division or something.

Very excited to keep reading, as I find most CM dynasties to be very intriguing (including your past effort).

[Chief Rum]

Originally posted by RonnieDobbs
Excellent idea CR. I personally prefer it being done straight, with no reference to things an average fan would know. It'll then be like following a real team; you wouldn't know your striker is a 16, for example (oh god I hope that SAAP guy doesn't read that :) ), you'd only know that he's considered one of the best strikers in the division or something.

Very excited to keep reading, as I find most CM dynasties to be very intriguing (including your past effort).

Shhh...best we not get Mac excited that someone might actually agree with that his approach to the game is more realistic. ;)

But, yeah, that's the point. A fan wouldn't know that stuff. Neither would the news reports. Heck, technically, the coaching staff wouldn't know it unless they set up some sort of classification system. That's the idea. ;)

Chief Rum

[Chief Rum]

June 14, 2002

Kettering Press Conference

A sampling of media and a good-sized group of standers-by gather under a canopy near the front entrance to Rockingham Road. Underneath the canopy, a small stage and a podium have been set up, as well as a side table of refreshments. A handful of watchful security guards are keeping the more unruly townfolk from the canopy, although their biggest test is between the fans and the table off to the side. Apparently some have utilized their lunch breaks to attend the occasion. The media is almost all newspaper and Internet reporters. There is a representative from the local radio station that broadcasts Kettering games, but no TV cameras.

A side door leading from some team offices under the stands opens, and Peter Mallinger walks out with several of his closest underlings, assistant coach Chris Swift, and an unknown man who all figure can only be Matthew Kieta himself.

Kieta is a youngish looking sort, which isn't a surprise given that Mallinger said he is just 30 years old. He is blond, soft looking, short and dumpy like the Tenfords. The spectators groaned at the sight of him.

Mallinger spoke for a few moments to introduce Kieta, calling it "a new era in Poppie football". Then he stepped aside and allowed Kieta to approach the pdium.

Kieta: Thank you all for coming. I'm really excited for this opportunity. The organization is a great one, and there's nothing better than English ball. I think there are some good players here in Kettering, and together we can do great things. I look forward to the good townsfolk of Kettering Town joining with us in what will doubtless be the beginning of a strong march to the top. And thank you again to Mr. Mallinger, who was kind enough and wise enough to give a guy like me a chance to really turn the Conference on its heels. I know and believe that we can do that. Now, are there any questions? (Gallery buzzes. Kieta points to a hand near the front.) Yes?

A reporter: Who the bloody hell are you?

(The gallery buzzes with laughter, which Kieta takes in stride, grinning and laughing at the wit with the media.)

Kieta: Fair question, I guess. Did you arrive late and not get my resumé? (More laughter from the gallery.) Seriously, though, I don't know what more I can tell you than what we have there. I played football in the States, for the University of California at Los Angeles. As you are all probably aware, the Americans have a very advanced collegiate system that serves somewhat like a reserve system for them. UCLA is one such school--in fact, it is rather reknowned there in the sport the Americans call "soccer".

(Snickers from gallery at the idiocy of Americans. Kieta allows the buzz to die down.)

You'll find me on some roster sheets for the Bruins in the early-to-mid-90s, but I wasn't very good. (More laughter.) I made a good impression on the coaches there, though, and was hired on as an assistant after my schooling was completed. In three years, I moved up to the top assistant's spot there, before I was offered the chance to head coach--that's basically a manager's position--at Cal Poly Pomona, a California school playing Division II footy. UCLA plays Division I. In my five years at Cal Poly, I amassed three CCAA championships--the CCAA was the local Division II table--and last year won a national championship for D-II. I guess that's like the American reserve equivalent to a Champions League championship, although on a much lower level, of course. (Winks at the crowd; the reporters and even some of the townsfolk are warming to his personable approach and glibness.)

The first reporter: Boy, that's a mouthful!

laughter

Kieta: I'll say. Now go get the darn fact sheet, so I don't have to repeat myself. (more gallery laughter) You sir?

Second reporter: It says here you're English?

Kieta: By birth and some of my early years. I was born in a borough just outside of Manchester and lived there for five years. Then my father had an opportunity in the States, and we moved to California on the far west coast of North America. I grew up there, but played footy the entire time. I have always loved the sport. I still maintain dual English and American citizenship. (looks for another question) Yes?

Third reporter: Why you? (some laughter)

Kieta: Why did Mr. Mallinger pick me? Well, you'll have to ask him that, although I can guess that he must feel I was the best for the job. And I agree with him. (That last done deadpan. More chuckles from the crowd. After the buzz dies down, Kieta goes on.) I'm sure that more apparently (stesses this last) qualified candidates might have suited some people better than an unknown name from America, but I am confident I'm the right choice for the job. Mr. Mallinger was very exacting in how he wanted this job performed and the qualities he wanted from a manager, and quite frankly, I believe I suited them to a tee.

Third reporter again: So you think you would have been hired in April in the same situation?

Kieta: Well, technically, I understand that the search for a manager has been ongoing since April, so I was hired from a process that began then. That said, were the decision made in April, I'm sure that the longer list of candidates available then would have cut into my chances a bit. Fortunately, it did not end up happening, and here I am. You in the back?

Fourth reporter: Have you spoken with any of the players?

Kieta: Some. I spoke with a few of the guys last night and this morning by phone. I have also met Craig Norman, who lives here in Kettering. I also spoke with former manager Carl Shutt to get an early read on the returning players. (Winks conspiratorially at the crowd.) I got the chairman's permission for that one. (Laughter from the gallery.) I will try to contact all of the players by the end of tomorrow, and preseason drills will began in a couple weeks, when I will meet with all of the players. Yes?

Second reporter again: Care to make any predicitions?

(Kieta just grins. The media crowd laughs at the pause.)

Kieta: I don't think that I'll have a good idea of that just yet. We'll have to see when I meet with and train with the players. The Poppies won the Southern League last year, but as you are all well aware, the Nationwide Conference is another matter entirely. I'm going to carefully examine the talent that we have, and if I can't make it work with the parts that are here, I'll go out looking for what I need.

Second reporter again: Does that mean you have a transfer budget?

Kieta: Actually, I currently do not know, although Mr. Mallinger has assured me that I will have the financial support when I need it. (The townsfolk in the distance give an audible groan, since they are familiar with The Mallingerer's promises in this respect. Mallinger silently turns beet red, but maintains his composure behind Kieta, who doesn't notice.) But I have a budget I think I can work with. But first things first. I need to see if any changes need to be made before I go and make them. Yes?

Fifth reporter: Mr. Kieta, will you be playing for the Poppies?

Kieta: Don't you want the team to get better? (Gallery erupts in laughter.) No, I don't think you want a soft dumpling like me in the backfield. Besides, we already havce some solid, young kids on defense. As for offense, I can't shoot a lick. (More chuckles) Well, everyone, I really must be going. I have to get started, and I intend to do so without delay. Thank you for your time, and if you ever need to reach me, just call our fine PR department, and I will get back to you. Thank you and good day.

(Kieta strides off of the stage and back through the door into the Rock's stony underbelly, leaving more questions behind him.)

Chief Rum

[SirFozzie]

Koolness. Keep it up :)

[Chief Rum]

Originally posted by SirFozzie
Koolness. Keep it up :)

I plan to. :)

CR

[GoldenEagle]

CR - great so far and looking forward to more updates.

[Marmel]

Chief, you know you write great dynasties, and they are very detailed, but a soccer one.....I don't know if I can stick with it. :(

[tucker342]

Good stuff so far CR!:D

[condors]

very nice writeup.

[WussGawd]

Hey, neat idea.

As somebody still dipping his toe into the shallow end of the vast pool of CM4, I'm going to read this one with relish.

Stu

[Chief Rum]

Thanks for the responses, all.

GoldenEagle: I'm working up the next update, but I probably won't get it up in time. I have to work tonight. But I will probably get it up later tonight.

Marmel: Give it a shot. You never know.

tucker342: Thanks!

condors: Thanks! (broken record...;) )

WussGawd: I have been known to increase game sales with my dynasties. You are forewarned. :)

Seriously, though, I just try and write what I find interesting and fortunately enough for me, others seem to find it interesting as well. Glad you like it so far. I hope to get an update up tonight.

See you around the ground, guys.

Chief Rum

[Chief Rum]

July 10, 2002

Northant Evening Telegraph

What's Going On With The Poppies?

by Roger Terndon

In all my years of covering Northant sports, I'm not sure I have ever seen the confusion that abounds regarding those Poppies up the road. It must be driving the Kettering folk mad.

The practices are closed. No one can get in. The players are under lock and key. There was even a report that the club bus was seen leaving the Rock a couple weeks ago, purportedly to some unknown location to practice away from roving eyes.

But we know they haven't added anybody. No transfers or loans have been announced. Other managers are saying that new manager Matthew Kieta has not gotten back to them as of yet on some of their offers, or even on congratulations for acquiring the job. Kieta reportedly hasn't even added anyone to his staff yet. And we're even hearing rumors filtering out of the team offices that the players might not be match-ready, although that is certainly not a surprise here in early July.

This entire affair just drubs me up wrong. The strange hire of this unknown manager. The secrecy. The fact that this side, for all of its achievements in the Southern league last year, is missing components of that team, like the sacked Carl Shuttm that, without whom, will certainly put it in a fight to stay above relegation this year.

What is The Mallingerer and his new henchman up to? Do they even care about this club anymore? Or the good folk of Kettering? My guess is that Mallinger is just looking to sell the team and avoiding taking on any big contracts at the moment. It’s patently obvious this new manager is just another one of his yes-men. Saints be with us if Mallinger hasn’t figured out that a Conference side is worth a heck of a lot more than a Southern League semi-pro hack squad.

Actually, it seems to me that the townsfolk are inordinately optimistic, considering what we have heard so far. You have to feel for these people, putting up such a good face in a situation like this. Part of that is how well this Mr. Kieta has handled himself in his few scrapes with the media thus far. Part of it is the Southern League championship and the return to the Nationwide. Part of it is just that sense of every new season being a new opportunity as well.

I pray that their faith is well-founded, but I fear otherwise. Mayhaps we shall discover what kind of lot these Poppies are in five days—when they play their first friendly against Bournemouth.

[Chief Rum]

I'm back!

I had some issues with how the game was going to run, and I also ran out of time. Some other things came up, like Avlis, that got in the way. But I have always been itching to give CM4 a good run, so I am back to keep this dynasty going.

If you have been following my CM threads in General Discussion, you know that I have ARSEd my copy. I have also switched over to a large database with fewer leagues, for the simple reason that I hear it is very hard to find the kind of free transfer players I'll need as a Lower League Manager with the smaller databases. Since I'm going to be writing as I go along, of course, speed should not be an issue.

Go Poppies!

Chief Rum

[illinifan999]

What do you mean ARESEd your copy?

[Fonzie]

Woohoo! Looking forward to it Chief!

[Chief Rum]

July 12, 2002

Radio show intro music dies away...

Announcer Tommy Ridgely: Well, welcome again, footy fans to our weekly addition of Popping Off, where we bring you all the news, highlights, rumors and interviews about your favorite local side, the Kettering Town Poppies.

Today, we have a special treat for you. Yes, indeed, as advertisaed, we have none other than the up until now evasive new manager of the club, Mr. Matthew Kieta, sitting right here to let us in on what has been happening with the team.

We'll get to Mr. Kieta in a second. First I wanted to remind folks to tune in right here for Monday's season-opening friendly against the Cherries of Bournemouth! It's always nice to start off the season by Popping a Cherry!...Okay, maybe that went to far...my producer is giving me the evil eye, although Mr. Kieta seems to enjoy it.

Back to the game. It's at 7:30 folks, this coming Monday, July 15, and while it is at ther Rock, I know plenty of you will be tuning in from work or from the stand itself, so be sure to check in here to listen to the Poppies' return to the pinnacle of semipro footy after a year away beating up ont he dregs of the Southern League.

Now let's return to the matter at hand. Mr. Kieta, welcome to Popping Off.

Kieta: Thank you, Tommy. Please call me Matt. I have been looking forward to the opportunity of letting the fans know how things are going with the Poppies.

Ridgely: Indeed, sir. And how are they going?

Kieta: They are well. The guys are working hard to get ready for the season. We still have a lot of preseason to go, though, and I am looking forward to seeing how they play together in a live match.

Ridgely: Matt, you're just 30 and up until now, you have been dealing with American kids in their teens. What's it like now having to handle the personalities of a group of grown men, a few of whom are older than you? I mean, your keeper is 36!

Kieta: I will admit, it is a learning experience. But perhaps not as much as you would think. Back Stateside, I always made an effort to treat the kids with utter respect and as adults. I expected them to act like adults, and they expected me to treat them as such. I find that approach works just as well here, with the difference being that for much of the squad, there is no doubt these are grown men. I expect a certain standard of professionalism, and I am happy to say that the team, to a man, has been very open to what I am trying to do, and have been working quite hard.

Ridgely: No complaints at all about any of the individuals on the team?

Kieta: (laughs) Well, as with any group of individuals, there are varying levels of efforts from different players. And it varies as time goes by as well. But, no, I don't have any complaints at all about this group. They have been very consistent, and I am quite proud of the progress they have made.

Ridgely: Will the side be ready for Monday's match in Bournemouth?

Kieta: They will be as ready as any squad at this point. Most of them aren't ready to play a full 90 yet, so we will likely throw most of the men out on the pitch at some point. We have five more friendlies after that, so I need to keep the guys as rested as I can.

Ridgely: How have you been getting along with everyone?

Kieta: Very well. As I said before, the players all know what I am trying to do, and we are all working toward the same goal. We want to make this team competiive in the Nationwide this year. I don't plan on living ont he edge of relegation all season.

Ridgely: Is that a prediction?

Kieta: (laughs) I thought you might say that. No, it's just a goal. Do I think the team can do it? I think so. We have some good players on this squad. If we can get them to buy into the system, then I think we can make something happen.

Ridgely: Ah, the system. Last year, Mr. Shutt used a wide-open attacking plan to dominate the Southern League, partly, of course, because he was one of those attackers. Will that work at the Conference level? Or do you have another plan?

Kieta: I have a lot of respect for what Carl did with this side last year, and on some levels, that attacking style will work. I admire it myself and would love to have a team that could use it at a high level like the Nationwide. But I just don't think we have the horses up front just yet to make it work. This team has a strong defensive backbone, and that is what I am basing my system on.

Ridgely: So you'll be playing "boring" ball then?

Kieta: I would hardly say that. It's just more realistic. We aren't deep up front, and we can't afford to tire the shooters out. Defense is a team effort, and even the guys up front are a part of that effort.

Ridgely: So what exactly is the system you will be using?

Kieta: We're going to throw a lot of men in the backfield. A standard 4-4-2, maybe a 4-5-1, with some variations, to start. We'll do a lot of closing down in our own end, and we may employ a counter attack. On offense, we'll use all ends of the pitch to advance the ball, but in the end, we'll rely on the quickness of our front people to give us an advantage in front of the box. If I can acquire some more depth at forward and int he midfield, we might be able to expand to some more offensive formations somewhere down the fixture a bit.

Ridgely: So you are looking for help? The lack of rumors from outside the Rock has been a constant source of discussion among my callers.

Kieta: Oh, yes, of course, we are always looking for that key addition. Not to say that we aren't satisfied with the team in place, but like any side, we have our weaknesses, and I don't know if we can adequately fill those weaknesses from within right now.

Ridgely: Anyone in particular? Any areas?

Kieta: Depth up front and in the midfield. Maybe some taller players and some quick wingers. And we need a lot of depth on a reserve and youth teams as well.

Ridgely: So Peter Mallinger has released the purse strings a bit?

Kieta: Well, I haven't tested the limits of Mr. Mallinger's openess on this subject just yet. He has assured me that if a move needs to and can be made to improve this side with a little extra cash, then he will give it high consideration. I have the highest confidence that the success of this club is his most earnestly-desired interest.

Ridgely: Hmm. So, if you go with the 4-4-2, who starts? Who are the leaders on this squad?

Kieta: There are plenty of standout players here. Ian Bowling is a certain starter in the net, and it's nice to have a veteran keeper like that to serve as the backbone of the defense. I will be relying on him a lot, I think, and he has been very upfront in helping me with that.

Ridgely: And in front of them? Will Howarth start in the center again?

Kieta: Oh, yes, Lee will be a key part of our centre backfield. He is another tough veteran defender, and I truly believe it will take a strong offensive team to beat both him and Bowling when they are on their games. I am also particularly excited about young Danny Holyoak, brought over here from Mansfield. He's just 18, but he can already play a strong backline in the Nationwide.

Ridgely: Word is Wayne Diuk has had some run-ins the past with Mallinger. Where does he fit in to the picture?

Kieta: Well, what's past is past and that does not concern me. Mr. Mallinger, per our agreement prior to my hiring, has been very hands off, and has not given me any instructions beyond the very basics for how to run my side. He has made no comment on Wayne whatsoever, to my knowledge. As for Wayne himself, he has been a model citizen, and will remain a key part of the Poppies' defensive midfield.

Ridgely: Speaking of the midfield, I am thinking that beyond Shaun Murray, we have a lot of questions there. How do you see the midfield coming together?

Kieta: This is going to be a much more direct team in terms of moving the ball. There will be a lot of short passing and quick moves, because I don't quite feel we have the strength up front yet to runa consistent air game in front of the opposition's net. So I am placing a premium on guys who can move and who can pass. And we have some solid options there.

Ridgley: Anyone in particular?

Kieta: Well, for one, Murray is probably our best offensive player, and I plan to utilize him as much as possible. But he will be closer to the net, where we can use his on-ball skills and his nose for the goal. The theme at midfield seems to be Irish. We have brought back Niall Inman, who will likely start on one wing. He was on that last Kettering nationwide team, you know, but he stayed up here with Dover, while the Poppies were in the Southern league. I suspect there will be some resentment from the fans about his decision to stay up here, but Niall will win them over with his play. Davy Williamson is probably our lead man in the center.

Ridgley: You're playing a 4-4-2. Ther ehave to be others, of course.

Kieta: Well, of course. But it's early yet. I am waiting for the match play to see who steps up. The intriguing wildcard in this rotation is Scott Goodwin. We brought him over from Hereford, and it looks like he can play a key role for us. He's a natural left fullback, but I think he can play a little wing as well. I have little doubt he'll be in the lineup. I just haven't decided where yet.

Ridgely: So Murray is up front?

Kieta: Oh, yes, and he will be playing a very important part. He will be the bridge to the box. Murray is such a talented player, that we will be relying on his many skills a lot on the pitch. He can pass and shoot. He's smart. he's veteran, but still relatively young at just 31. He can bring it up, and he can keep it up, too. So he'll be playing somewhat of an attacking midfield spot.

Ridgely: Will Itonga man the other spot? The fans have been very excited about the Arsenal import from Africa.

Kieta: And they should be. Carlin is a natural goalscorer, and he learned well playing for the reserves for Arsenal last year. And kudos to their scouts for picking him up out of the Congo as well. He just knows how to put the ball in the net. He and Murray will be working together a lot.

Ridgely: Quite exciting. I'm looking forward to it already. Well, I fear we have run up to the end of the program. Mr. Kieta--Matt--thank you for stopping by and letting us know what's going on with the Poppies.

Kieta: Thank you for having me. I do hope the fans will come out in force and be that twelfth man we need in the terraces on Monday. Even in a friendly, it's always fun to have a packed stadium.

Ridgely: Well, we'll be there for sure. Good luck to you then, and we'll see you on Monday.

Kieta: Thank you, Tommy. And good day.

Ridgely: Thank you, fans, for listening to another edition of Popping Off with your host, Tommy Ridgely. Be sure to tune in again to Monday's friendly with the Cherries of Bournemouth, visiting our little humble abode of Kettering at the Rock at 7:30. Come see the Poppies return to the highest level of semipro football. And listen to us on your handsets. It will be fun for all

[Chief Rum]

Originally posted by illinifan999
What do you mean ARESEd your copy?

I added the command ARSE to it.

It's easier for me to link to a previous explanation I mad ethen to do it again. So just click the link below and read near the end of the thread.

Link To My Explanation of ARSE (http://dynamic2.gamespy.com/~fof/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=9710)

Chief Rum

[Chief Rum]

July 15, 2002

"Tenford! Did you read the Telegraph?"

Peter turned in his seat and saw his best friend Andrew Trellis walking over toward his seat, a paper clutched in his hand. He handed him the paper as he settled into his seat beside Peter.

"No, I ran late at the park and had to come here straightaway to catch the match," Peter said. He unfolded the crumpled paper as Andy scanned the pitch for the first time. "What's so big in the paper?"

"I think that must be him," Andy said, pointing at a shorter man standing near Manager Kieta, who was squinting intently at a clipboard. "That must be the new assistant manager!"

"Hmm...?"

"Read the paper, Peter! On page 2. It says the Poppies have hired some Irishman named Tony Brien to be their assistant manager," Andy said, as he reached over and turned the page for me. Peter read the small piece quickly, a newswire bit that obviously just made the press cutoff. "You ever heard of him?"

"No, I haven't," Peter grumped. He didn't like a lot of the moves this new manager had made yet. "What's with all the Irish? Our whole midfield, practically, is from that island, and now here's another, and an unknown to boot, getting an important position like this."

"You got the time?", Andy asked.

"It's just after seven. Match is gonna start soon. You know where William and Randall are?", Peter asked, looking at the two other empty seats on Andy's other side. The four had been season ticket holders for the Poppies for years now.

"I don't think they are making it. Willy had to work late, and you know how Randall's woman is," Andy said, making a face. "She's a shrew if ever I saw one, and you know it would be just like her to hang him up for a night out on the first night of footy in two months. If he was gonna make it, he would have been here by now."

"Oh well," Peter said, surveying the sparsely-crowded stands. "It doesn't seem like much of a crowd is turning out for this one anyway."

"Well, you know how the friendlies are. Everyone hates to come out for the meaningless ones," Andy said.

"True enough. The match is going to start in a few--what say you go grab us a couple pints of Bass, so we can christen this event rightly..."

Halftime

"Good God, have I ever been more bored in my life, Tenford?" asked Andy, incredulously. "It's not that it's scoreless, but we hardly even saw any chances! I'm not even sure the Poppies came into the Cherries' half of the pitch."

"Yes, I know what you mean," Peter said. "It was rather dull, but then, what do you expect from a friendly? It's obvious both sides are pulling their tackles and playing it easy."

"True," Andy admitted. "What did you think of the team?"

"Well, they seem to play well on the defensive end, though we'll have to see how that plays out when they face some real pressure," Peter said. "The offense doesn't really seem to be getting anything going, although Murray has looked good."

"Yeah, he has, but that dark fellow Itonga hasn't even taken one good look at the net yet," Andy groused. "Wasn't he supposed to be the new striker on this side? Eye for the net, my arse."

"Give him a little time, Andy," Peter said. "The Poppies don't even seem to be trying on offense just yet. Maybe Mr. Kieta is just using this match to guage the defense."

"We better hope so," Andy said. "Look, they're coming back out."

64th Minute

"Well, half the starting side is on the bench now. It looks like this one is going to wind up like most friendlies, with a lot of reserves getting what little playing time they will," Andy said. He watched as two more of the Poppies' starters walk off the field.

Whistles go off as play begins again. The Cherries throw the ball in from the bench side on their half of the pitch, and Poppies' midfielder Stefan Dancy approaches a Cherry as he prepares to accept the throw-in. The ball shakes loose a bit in the tumult, and the Cherry shoulders into Dancy to get to the ball. Dancy catches a little shoulder in the face and reacts angrily, shoving the player to the ground. Whistles go off again, as play steps.

"Oh no," Peter groans. "I can see this one coming from a mile away..."

Referee Bob Pollack steps up to Dancy and holds the red card up high. The expression on Dancy's face goes wild as the 18-year-old steps up to the referee to maybe give him a push, too. Shaun Murray intervenes before the young midfielder can reach him. Dancy's cursing can be heard from the stands.

"Quite a mouth on that one," Andy observed. "Now I see why he didn't get much playing time the past couple years."

"Well, he's just a kid, Andy," Peter pointed out. "That's to be expected. Still, to get tossed from a friendly--Good Lord! I mean, look at Kieta. You can just tell he's pissed off right now, and I don't think he's pissed at the ref, if you know what I mean."

"Aye, you're right," Andy said. "Look, he's motioning for Murray to escort Dancy to the bench. I guess we'll have to play this one out short one then. As if we need an excuse to get even more defensive."

"Dancy's gonna miss Thursday's match for this one, maybe more," Peter said. Andy just nodded in agreement as play resumed.

A couple minutes passed in silence, as the Poppies surprisingly pushed deep into Cherry territory. After a scrum near the box, the ball squirted out to the left side of the box. Bournemouth's keeper scrambled to reach the ball, as Murray raced to beat him to it.

"Look at that!" Andy said, rising to his feet. "That Cherry keeper is to far out!"

Peter rose, too, hoping for a score, something, anything to add some excitement to this match.

"Looks like Murray's going to beat him to it, but the keeper has him cloed down."

Murray collects the ball, switches feet and knocks a short flier to the other side of the box. The few fans in the stands get a little louder as Murray's intent becomes clear. Bournemouth's keeper turns and stares for a second in seeming disbelief before scrambling back toward the net.

The ball drifts down on striker Mike McKenzie's foot near the right corner of the box. Defenders are closing in on him, and a fullback has drifted back to the net line, but the keeper is still out of range and McKenzie has an open shot. He rares back and blasts it at the far left corner. The defender, frozen by the shot, can only watch helplessly as the ball sails into the net with a satisfying whump. The stands erupt into cheers and hurrahs as the Poppies mob McKenzie briefly in front of the net.

Andy and Peter are hooting and hollering as well, big smiles on their faces.

90th minute

"No starters left in this one but Bowling," Andy said.

"Yes, and with Mckenzie's goal standing up, it looks like we might take this one," Peter said. But did he speak too soon? The Cherries were keeping the ball well away from the Poppy defenders, playing a short passing game just over the halfline.

Finally, one attacker seemed to find a hole. He was quickly closed down, but not before he curled a tailing shot toward the upper right bar.

"Oh no," Andy groaned. Peter felt it, too. This one was going in. They both rose to their feet in helpless anticipation.

Even from here, they could see Ian Bowling's eyes go wide. His reaction was instantaneous, as he gathered himself for what would have to be an amazing leap. He threw himself toward the ball, hands outstretched, even as the ball moved away from him. It was nearly across the line, when his fingers brushed it off and sent it flying into the bar. It ricochetted back out beyond the box, where another Cherry gathered it up, but was quickly closed down and forced to give it away.

"Unbelievable," Andy croaked. "I can't believe he got his hands on that one! Call me a git for doubting the man. How often has Bowling come through for this squad in the past years?"

Peter merely nodded his agreement, himself struck dumb by the amazing save.

Two minutes later, the refs blew the whistle and this friendly was in the books.

"Well, I'll be!" Peter said. "We beat a solid team here, albeit in a friendly and just a D3 side."

"Yeah, I was surprised, too," Andy said. "We didn't get much offense going, but we did when we had to. We even won shorthanded. And they couldn't crack our defense either."

The two men gather their things and prepare to leave, even as the team gathers by the bench, patting each other on the back. The small crowds are sporadically streaming toward the exits.

"Will you be here Thursday?" Andy asked.

"Likely, though, Peterborough isn't going to be easy," Peter said.

The two men drifted toward the exit.

[Chief Rum]

July 16, 2002

Northant Evening Telegraph

Dancy Receives One-Match Ban

KETTERING-- The Nationwide Conference Football Association has suspended Poppies' midfielder Stefan Dancy for one match for his red card dismissal in Monday's friendly match with AFC Bournemouth.

Dancy received the card after pushing the Cherries' striker Steven Fletcher to the ground in the 64th minute of the match at Kettering Town's Rockingham Road stadium. Dancy appeared to be reacting to a physical scrape with Fletcher over a throw-in.

Despite the infraction, the Poppies went on to defeat the Cherries, 1-0, playing shorthanded, in new manager Matthew Kieta's first match at the head of the club.

Dancy, 18, is expected to play a key role in the Poppies' midfield this season. He will miss Thursday's friendly against Peterborough at the Rock.

Kieta had little comment on the matter when reached at the team offcies. He said he will not appeal the ban, and that any other disciplinary action, if any, would be "internal only".

The Poppy players had the day off, as per a common post-match tradition.

[condors]

good stuff

looking forward to Peterborough match

[illinifan999]

Keep it up! I look forward to more. :D

[wbatl1]

I love the press conferences and briefings. Great Job.

WB

[Fonzie]

At the risk of turning this into a love-fest, I'd like to add my praise. Great work Chief!

[Chief Rum]

Thanks, guys. I'm running the Peterborough match right now, although I haven't decided how to present it yet. Keep on reading.

Chief Rum

[Chief Rum]

July 19, 2002

Northampton Chronicle & Echo

Poppy Victory Comes at a Price

KETTERING-- A grievous injury overshadowed an otherwise thrilling night for the Poppies of Kettering.

Irish winger Niall Inman, 24, broke his right leg late in the first half of the Poppies' 1-0 victory over Division Two side Peterborough United at Rockingham Road Thursday night. Inman is epxected to be out until at least January.

"This is a tough blow for Niall, and for the team," new Kettering manager Matthew Kieta told reporters after the match. "It was a very painful injury for him, and we need to be there to support him and get him back to us as soon as he can safely return."

The injury was just one of those freak occurrences that happen often in football. In the 38th minute, Peterborough winger David Farrell was coming up the left side of the pitch with the ball when Inman attempted to close down on him. Inman attempted a slide tackle, but one of his cleats caught in the turf, breaking his leg with his forward momentum. Midfielder Mark Cartlidge replaced Inman, who had to be carried off on a cart in obvious agony.

Cartlidge, as it turns out, would play a key role in the tight defensive match. In the 70th minute, he intercepted a pass from Posh defensive midfielder Dennis Pearce near the midway point of the left flank. He passed forward to a streaking Shaun Murray, who split two defenders to the left corner of the box. Posh keeper Mark Tyler attempted to advance onto Mouuary, but the veteran forward lofted a volley over Tyler's head and into the net for the lone score of the match.

The Posh pushed forward aggressively all game, but only managed five shots on the net, manned ably by the Poppies' reserve keepers William Gourlay and Simon Ward, who combined for the shutout.

The Poppies used a variety of heady defensive play and some questionable tactics to keep the Posh off-center, limiting Peterborough's chances despite spending almost the entire match defending their own end.

Peterborough United, a Division Two side, is conventionally considered to be far more talented than the Conference-bound Poppies.

After the match, Kieta said he had no idea yet how he would replace Inman, but he allowed that Cartlidge would likely get first shot at the right winger's spot.

Poppy Notes

Gourlay and Ward are competing for the backup keeper spot behind incumbent starter Ian Bowling. Gourlay, playing behind a mostly first team defense, faced just one shot in the first half of the Peterborough United match. Ward had to be much more active, facing off four shots in the second half, including one on goal.

Kieta said the two were neck-and-neck at the moment in the competition, and that he didn't expect to make his final choice until just before the season starts.

Bowling got the night off after shutting out AFC Bournemouth on Monday in Kettering's first friendly. The Poppies have yet to allow a goal in the preseason.

***

Kieta waved off concerns about the side's offense as being "premature this early in the preseason."

The Poppies managed just two shots on the net Thursday, after taking just two against Bournemouth.

When pressed for comment, Kieta responded, "Well, two of them went in, didn't they?"

***

Midfielder Stefan Dancy was allowed to play in the Peterborough match after all.

Dancy was sent off for a push in the Bournemouth match and had received a one-match ban from the Nationwide Conference Football Association. The association clarified just hours before the Peterborough match was to start that the ban applied to the regular season and not to further friendlies.

As such, Dancy will be forced to miss the Poppies' season opener against fellow Conference foe Burton Albion, to be played at the Rock on August 17.

Dancy made a late appearance in the Peterborough match, but did not distinguish himself.

***

Next match: Wednesday, July 24, Vs. Notts County (Division Two) at Rockingham Road in Kettering Town. Match starts at 7:30 p.m.

[Chief Rum]

July 24, 2002

"That was utter shite!"

Peter was still pissed at what happened, even though what set him off had occurred almost a half hour before.

"Relax, Tenford," his friend William Averby said, patting him on the back. "It's just a friendly."

"Besides, that ref is a ninny, and we all know it," Andy offered.

"I suppose so," Peter said. They were right--it is just a friendly, and that ref had been making odd calls all night.

"I am just satisfied that we came away with another solid performance from the side," Randall Wallace, the fourth member of their crew, said. "That's two D-Two sides now that we stood up to and came away unbeaten."

"True enough," Andy said. "I'll take a scoreless draw against these guys any time."

"It could have been so much more, though," Peter protested. "That shot by Dancy was in!"

"Well, no one is disputing that, Tenford," William said. "The point is the lineman blew his tooter before Dancy got the shot off. Asombang hadn't a saved it from the goal line before giving it off."

"According to the ref!" Peter gruffed. "I didn't see that ball cross the line, and it was a beautiful pass, even if I think 'Bong was aiming for McKenzie on the other side, and not Dancy. Left the Magpies' keeper flat-footed, it did."

"That it did," Andy agreed heartily. "He was rooted. It all would have mattered not a whit if Murray's shot earlier had gone in. He was off tonight, I think--that one should have been in all the way."

"Hell yeah it shoulda!" Randall said. "He had the break, and their keeper broke the wrong way. If he hadn't tailed it too much, it would have been in the back, easy as pie. Instead he missed it wide left."

"Don't be too harsh," Peter said. "He was our savior in the first two friendlies. Notched one against the Posh, and he created the entire scoring chance for us against Bournemouth. If it wasn't--"

"Hey, guys. Look there," Andy interrupted. He had turned back toward the pitch. "Look at the team walking to the clubhouse. Brien is supporting Goodwin,a nd he's limping pretty bad."

Peter turned, a crestfallen look overtaking his features.

"Oh, Heaven's sakes, not another injury to our wingers!" he said. The others reacted similarly, with groans of despair.

"We're short enough as it is on the wing," Randall said. "Inman's gone for the rest of this year. We can't afford to keep taking hits like this."

"Bloody Hell!" Peter swore. "Let's get this blooming friendly schedule over with before the whole team's in medical!"

"There's only one more friendly, the one against Kidderminster in a couple weeks," William said. "Maybe Goodwin's injury is light--two weeks should be enough to set him up right."

"We better hope so," Andy said.

[Calis]

To add to the redundancy, great dynasty! I really love the style, very interesting take.


Can't wait to read more!

[Chief Rum]

(Thanks, Calis :) )

August 7, 2002

Northampton Chronicle & Echo

Poppies Shoot Blanks

KETTERING-- The offense was active at Rockingham Road last night. The Poppies were aggressive and the shots were flying.

And nothing changed.

Despite a seemingly rejuvenated offensive effort that had yet to be seen in the preseason, the Poppies played the Division Three Kidderminster Harriers to a 0-0 draw Thursday night.

In a match that was much more exciting and tense than the final tally would indicate, the Poppies and Harriers tested each other's defensive mettle with 13 shots on goal, including 8 on target.

Kettering's eight shots was three more than they had accounted for in their other three friendlies combined. Likewise, in a much more wide open game, the Harriers' five shots, all on target, matched by themselves the total that Poppy keepers had faced int he previous three matches.

It was exciting from the get-go, when Kettering's starting keeper, young William Gourlay, faced down three shots in the opening 24 minutes of the match. On one play at the 17th minute, Harrier striker Matt Lewis advanced on the net line, drawing the Poppy defense in deep and pinning Gourlay to the right post of his net. Lewis turned and fired a sharp box-crossing pass to midfielder Nick Heath, charging into the box. Heath had an open shot and blasted it toward the low left corner, but Gourlay made an amazing post-to-post run to get in the way of Heath's shot and held it.

The Poppies themselves ratcheted it up a notch when they used a couple corners in the 21st minute to take pot shots at Kiddermister's keeper, Stuart Brock. Brock was forced to make three saves, including a brilliant finger save on a header by striker Carlin Itonga.

The second half did not lack for excitement either. The Poppies brought in keeper Simon Ward, competing with Gourlay for the backup spot on the first team, and he was tested immediately. He had to leap high to get his hands on a top corner shot by Lewis in the 53rd minute. He was just able to deflect it up and off the cross bar.

Near the end of the match, Kettering midfielder Davy Williamson freed himself for a run toward the left side of the box, and blasted a shot toward the low right corner that went wide of the post by mere inches.

In getting to the end of the friendly with a 0-0 draw, the Poppies pulled off the amazing feat of keeping two Divison Two and two Division Three sides from scoring in four friendlies this preseason. That notable feat may be matched, however, by the concerning offensive production, a mere two goals in the four matches altogether.

Poppy Notes

Kettering Town manager Matthew Kieta would not divulge who had won the competition for the backup goalkeeper spot, although he said a decision would come soon.

"Both William [Gourlay] and Simon [Ward] have shown that they have the ability to make it in this league," Kieta said. "Either way, we will get them both into action."

Gourlay, the 17-year-old keeper of the Poppies' U-19 squad, is considered a decent young player and perhaps the future of the team in net. Ward, a more veteran 21 years of age, is making the most of his first opportunity with a top semi-pro club.

Either way, neither is a threat to longtime starting keeper Ian Bowling, one of the team's best players.

***

Left winger Scott Goodwin, recovering from a strained ankle suffered on July 24 against Notts County, missed the Kidderminster match and is questionable for the August 17 Conference season opener against Burton Albion.

"Burton Albion is questionable right now, but we're hoping to have Scott back for Morecambe," Kieta said.

The Poppies play at Morecambe three days after the Burton Albion match.

Stefan Dancy, who is more of a midfielder than a winger, started in Goodwin's place. Dancy, however, is suspended for the Burton Albion match due to an red card infraction earlier in the preseason.

Kieta said he hadn't decided who would start at left winger against Burton Albion if Goodwin couldn't go.

***

Kieta said he and his staff are continuing to explore options for getting some depth for the squad's depleted midfield and forward crews.

"Our scout is checking out some options right now," Kieta said.

Kieta warned not to expect any quick fixes, though, as it would take a while for any newcomer to work his way into playing shape and to get used to the tactics the Poppies use.

"We're probably going to just be winging it early on," Kieta quipped to groans.

***

The Poppies' friendly fixture has been completed, with a final record of 2-2-0. The home and Conference season opener against Burton Albion is set for 3 p.m. at the Rock on August 17.

[CK#12]

Chief Rum,

Would you like any local knowledge?
I lived in Kettering most of my life.

The football ground is very near where I lived and you could hear the crowds on Matchdays if you left the windows open.

[Chief Rum]

Hell yeah, CK. What luck. Tell me anything you can. :)

Chief Rum

[CK#12]

Chief Rum,

You are welcome to PM anytime.

I've only ever been to 2 Poppies matches, I actually support Nottingham Forest.

Kettering Town's big rivals are Northampton Town and Rushden & Diamonds.
Rushden have a lot of money because they had a wealthy chairman called Max Griggs (a multi-millionaire) who bought the club and he has helped them rise through the divisions and they are now in the 2nd division.
Northampton being a lot bigger town have had more success than Kettering but have fluctuated between the 3rd and 2nd division.
If Kettering ever beat either of these teams (maybe when you get promoted :)) then the fans would go crazy.

Kettering Town has had it's good times but at the moment the club is in financial uncertainty and the team has just not been playing well. We have had to sell our best players just to balance the books.

Despite the problems Kettering still get about 2,000 fans for most home games which is pretty good for a non-lague team.

You've obviously done quite a bit of research into the area, I 've been really impressed.

A few local things for your dynasty.

If any of your players go out for a good time, the local nightspots are a club is called "Club XS" which is on the outskirts of town & "Chicago's" which is in the middle of town.
The best pubs are the "Sportsman", "Wayfarers" or "The Rising Sun".

Local retuarants are pretty crap but there is a nice italian in Burton Latimer which is a village just outside of Kettering.
I can't remember what it's called though.

Anything you need just ask.

[Chief Rum]

Wow, thanks for all the great information, CK. Please, any time you can add anything else, I would appreciate it. And what you have already given me here is gold. :)

No doubt some of you may have noticed thatthis dynasty stopped cold last week. Well, if you spent any time in the GD forum, you probably know that I suffered a hard drive breakdown last week. I had to buy a new hard drive, and, unfortunately, this dynasty is on that hard drive.

So I started a new one after re-installing CM4, with pretty much the same everything. Starting from scratch, of course, presents some problems with the story, as most of the things which have occurred have in fact NOT occurred now, thanks to the fact that that dynasty in its initial form is lost to me now.

I have what I think will be a good segue into what happened the "second" time around, though. So I hope you'll bear with me. Just remember that most of what you have read up to this point is, unfortunately, no longer valid.

Chief Rum

[Chief Rum]

August 7, 2002

Peter awoke with a start and a yelp, breaking the stony silence of the darkness around him.

He breathed hard, his thoughts still possessed by the events of his dreams. They were so real, he thought.

Gradually, a dull pain in his head began to seep through his stupor, burning it away and gripping his temples in a vice.

"Ooowww...", he groaned, reaching his hand to his head. He noticed he felt hot and clammy, and that the air was suffocatingly stuffy. His mouth tasted foul, like he had been asleep for days.

He recognized the symptoms right away--he was hungover.

"Good Lord," he muttered under his breath. "This musthave been quite the ringer..."

He swung his legs out from what he determined to be a couch, and settled his feet--still wearing his shoes--on the carpet below. The very motion made him feel a little sick, although he had been drunk often enough to know that his time for worshipping the porcelain god was past.

All was dark, but he finally began to pick out the details of the room he was in, including a steadily brightening line of pink dawn out the window at the far end.

He was in Andy Trellis's den. He must have passed out here.

Suddenly, the thought of Andy screamed at him through the veil of slumber.

"The Poppies!", he gasped. He leapt to his feet, bringing another wave of nausea and sharp stabbing pains to his head, but he ignored them as he rushed int he direction of Andy's bedroom.

"Andy," he whispered harshly to Andy's closed door as he approached it. It did not open, but it had been left slightly ajar. He pushed it open lightly and peeked inside. He could just make out the form of his friend in his bed. Peter steadied himself on the door jamb as the effects of the alcoohol swarmed over him again.

"Andy!" he whispered again.

The mound moved with a groan, and Peter knew he had been heard.

After a few seconds of twisting on the bed, his friend Andy finally peeked out at Peter from under the covers.

"Go to bed, you arse!" he said throatily. "It's hours yet until ee must be up."

"I'm sorry, Andy," Peter whispered, though he knew not why--Andy lived alone. "I had a weird dream and I need to ask you some things."

The mound gave out another muffled groan of despair, before a hand snaked out and turned on the small lamp on Andy's bedside table. For all its compactness, the light had the glare of the sun to Peter's eyes, as he squinted against it and the waves of pain it sent rolling through his skull.

He steadied himself a moment again, as Andy through back the covers and moved up into more of a sitting position.

"Peter, this better be bloody important, or I'm gonna fetch my cricket stick and break it on your arse!" Andy warned. It was patently ridiculous, of course, since Andy is a smallish lout of a man, but Peter knew him to have a fierce enought emper when he got going.

"Well, I don't know tis all that important but I have need of ease of mind," Peter said. "I dreamt of the Poppies."

"What a shocker," Andy replied mockingly. "Was it the Champions Cup one again, or the one where you lead the Poppies to promotion to the Premier with an extra time win over Rushden?"

"Neither," Peter said, solemnly. "This was far more real. Or it felt like it, anyway."

"Well, then, get to it," Andy said. "What happened?"

"Well, I dreamed a month or two, it felt," Peter started. "It wasn't a day-in, day-out thing, but more of a leaping vision of all things Poppy. I dreamt of four friendlies and other things."

"The Poppies have played six friendlies," Andy said. "The last one was last night, after which we both got blithering drunk, remember?"

"Well, sorta...", Peter admitted. "Who did we play again?"

"Did you just drink the Bass, or did you slip something heavier into that mix," Andy asked. "You have been wiped, I think. We played Leyton Orient, last night, and we lost 2-0. It was a bloody horrific match."

"2-0...ah, yes, that is coming back to me a bit," Peter admitted. "Did we allow any goals int he other friendlies?"

"Well, of course, we did, Peter, don't be daft," Andy remarked. "You don't get through two Level Four, two Level Three and a Level Two side without giving up some goals."

"Hmm, in my dream, we didn't give up a goal, and that was to some strong opponents as well," Peter said, lamenting his loss.

"Well, then you know it was a dream, don't you?" Andy asked in frustration. "No way in hell we get by without allowing a score in six or four friendlies."

"Did we perform well?" Peter asked. "I am befuddled at the moment, and cannot recall."

Andy rolled his eyes.

"Well enough, I suppose," he said. "The defeat last night was a bitter pill, but we came through the rest with a draw and four victories, for what good friendlies do ya. Tenford, surely you recall the Derby match?"

Visions of swarming masses went through Peter's head as he thought of that one.

"Yes, I think I do," he said. "Last week, Derby came down to the Rock, and the place was swamped, as it generally will be when the a D-One side comes to town. Standingr oom only in the terraces, and Randy complaining all that team that that bleating whore in front of us kept standing up during the match."

"So you do remember," Andy said, grinning for the first time. "I was beginning to fear for your sanity. That was a good win for us, friendly or not. And you The Mallingerer had to be happy with the box recepits on that one."

"Aye, true," Peter said. "Is Inman well? And what of Brien?"

"Inman? The Irish on the wing?" Andy asked, eyebrows going up. "What of him? He's fine enough, although i think he should be playing harder than he has. And who the bloody hell is Brien?"

"So Inman isn't sporting a broken wing," Peter asked hopefully. "He isn't done until past the festive season."

"No, you fucking twit," Andy said. "He's just fine. Now who the hell is Brien?"

"Tony Brien, the Irish assistant," Peter said.

"What is it with you and the Irish, Tenford," Andy asked in exasperation. "I have never heard of a Brien. Our assistant is the old defender Steve Thompson. A fine enough hire, I suppose."

Peter breathed a sigh of relief.

"I'm finally beginning to believe all this, Andy," Peter said. "I feared I had lost my wits."

"I'm still fearing it," Andy asked suspiciously.

"I'm just glad we aren't coached by some bloody nobody from the States," Peter said, ignoring his friend. "That was the most unbelievable part of it all."

"Peter, have you lost your mind," Andy asked. "We did hire an American, or an Englishman who emigrated there anyway. Does the name Matthew Kieta ring a bell?"

Peter stared at his friend in horror for a moment before responding.

"NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!"

[Chief Rum]

August 10, 2002

Northant Evening Telegraph

They Came Back For This?

by Roger Terndon

A year ago, we were lamenting that the Poppies of Kettering Town were about to start their first year in the lower semi-pro leagues since 1972.

Now they are back in the Conference and one week away from embarking on a new season. But is there really a difference between this year and last? Last year, there was hope they could return to the Nationwide. This year, there is fear they won't stay.

So the goal remains the same: to play in the Nationwide Conference next year.

Can we expect it? The pundits aren't sure. Most seem to think this team will be lucky to end up in the middle of the table. I'm hard pressed to disagree with them.

After two months on the job, new manager Matthew Kieta has added just one new face to the roster--assistant manager Steve Thompson. Not one addition was made to the playing roster, and it seems to most that this new manager must be in over his head.

This was not one of the best offensive sides in the Dr. Marten's League and barely escaped that league to win promotion as it is. From that roster, the Poppies have removed former manager and top scorer Carl Shutt, making them even more impotent on offense.

Now here we are approaching a new season, and we have a hodge-podge of new players from whom we have no idea what we'll get. Certainly, few of them have proven themselves on this level before.

Dag & Red seems to be the favorite, as well they should be after finishing just short of promotion last year. Third-placed Yeovil Town and the Rovers of Doncaster will be there, too. Barnet, Farnborough, Morecambe--all look like solid teams. And, though, they suffered relegation last year, Halifax Town has to be considered a strong team by virtue of having played in the League last season. Toss in the few surprises you have every season, and that makes for a top ten table that will be hard to crack.

But the Poppies don't need to be in the top half of the table just yet--they just need to beat three teams, and two of them--Gravesend and Burton Albion--are new additions to the Conference, just like the Poppies.

Can they do it? The friendly schedule gives hope. Kettering Town played well in its preseason fixture, posting four wins and a draw in six matches. The team played a strong defense with Lee Howarth and Ian Bowling forming an impermeable wall, and the offense was decently productive as well. But this team also saved its worst for last, falling in miserable fashion to Leyton Orient earlier this week. Was it a bad night? Or was it finally facing a side which was putting all of its starters out from the first whistle?

The oddsmakers place the Poppies' odds at 33-1 to win advancement to the League. I think it would do more good to know what the odds are the Poppies will be relegated at the ended of the year--because avoiding it will be the real championship for Kettering Town fans.

After all, what good is promotion if you're relegated the season afetr that? The Poppies will need to beat this second test to prove they are back for good.

[Chief Rum]

August 13, 2002

Northampton Chronicle & Echo

Kieta Names Starters

KETTERING-- The Poppies' manager Matthew Kieta named his starters Tuesday for this weekend's season-opening match with Conference opponent Barnet, and said they would likely remain his core starters for the time being.

The opening lineup will feature seven new starters, most of whom are new additions to the Kettering Town roster.

Veteran keeper Ian Bowling returns at goalkeeper for his third season with the Poppies. The 36-year-old is easily the top keeper on the club, and is a leader on the field, too, where he is expected to be the captain. This will be his third season with the Poppies.

"I expect Ian to be a critical part of our team this season," Kieta said after he announced the keeper's position. "His performance will very likely determine the direction this season goes."

The critical man on defense will be centre defender Lee Howarth, who will play his first Conference ball with Kettering Town after transferring to the Poppies from Boston United last year. The 34-year-old commanding fullback was a centerpiece of the strong defense which won the Poppies' their promotion back to the Conference last year. He will be joined by Rushden import Brett Solkhon, who will have to play strong ball to avoid becoming a target of the Rushden-hating fans of Kettering.

The wingbacks will feature an addition from Conference foe Hereford United in Scott Goodwin, a solid defender with some midfield skills, and former backup Martin Matthews on the right. Matthews, in his third year witht he poppies, won his starting spot over Mark Haran.

The big surprise on the back line was the demotion of longtime center stalwart Craig Norman. Norman, who has been one of the Poppies' better defenders for years, is the club's elder statesman in years with the cllub. The 27-year-old has been playing with the Poppies since his football debut in 1995.

"Craig is still a key part of this team," Kieta said. "This move is not because of anything related to Craig or his skills--he remains as dedicated as ever. The fact of the matter is that we are just a very deep team on defense. Craig will see plenty of time, with a heavy fixture and four spots to fill each match."

Two Irish imports will be a key to Kettering's midfield this season. Speedy young centreman Davy Williamson will take the forward midfield spot and do much of the same ball advancement he did with Northern Ireland's Bray Wanderers last year. Williamson has come along further from his early days, which included a brief stint on loan with the Poppies in 1998. On the right wing, fellow Irishman Niall Inman returns to the Poppies. Inman was with the Poppies in 2001 when they were relegated from the Conference, but elected to stay in the league with Dover Athletic.

Four-year veteran Wayne Duik has been moved from his traditional defensive midfield spot to the left wing, where Kieta feels his aerial abilities and ball movement skills will be of particular use to the team.

"I have people who can defend the center of the pitch," Kieta said. "But my system calls for more attacking along the wings, and Wayne fits in perfectly with that role."

The last midfield spot will be handled by Mansfield transfer Danny Holyoak, who will handle much of the defensive midfield responsibilities for the side.

Up front may be the very key to the team's success, where the offense is expected to be often slow in coming. Fortunately, one of the two up front will be Shaun Murray, in his third year with the Poppies. Murray, a natural attacking midfielder, was moved to the left froward spot because of a lack of depth there, but it could eb a diamond move, as Murray is well-known for his creativity on the pitch. The other forward spot will be manned by Arsenal reserve and African Congo import Carlin Itonga, who's primary skills are related to his quickness with the ball.

The season opener against Barnet will be played at 3 p.m. this Saturday at Rockingham Road in Kettering Town.

[Fonzie]

Nice maneuver, Chief! :)

[condors]

glad to have updates again

[DataKing]

Excellent stuff, Chief. I love the format. I'll be reading.

[CK#12]

Chief, Good to see a little hard drive failure didn't destroy your Kettering Dynasty.

If this is anything like real lofe then your season will indeed be a struggle.

[Chief Rum]

Fonzie: Thanks. I had to come up with something. :)

condors: Me, too. I hate it when I get into something and I have to wait for computer problems to get fixed to get it going again.

DataKing: Thanks, DK. My fear is that I won't be able to keep it fresh. After all, it's going to be hard not to be repititious after a while, with so many games to present in one way or another. I do want to use some of the same formats over, because it's easier and there is value in the familiarity of a similar format as well, but there is an accompanying risk of it getting old. Maybe after a while, I'll ask you guys which ways of presentation you prefer (interviews, radio commentary or play-by-play, news conferences, newspaper articles and commentaries, spectator testimonials, maybe even narratives from on the pitch themselves, who knows...).

CK: That's not a coincidence. I'm well aware of Kettering's suckiness in the real life version of this season (for those of you who don't, Kettering Town finished in dead last in the 2002-03 season--by a lot). Interestingly enough, I also followed the same route with my Stalybridge Celtic and then to Welsh teams CM01-02 dynasty last year, having noted that in the 2001-02 season, the Celtic finished in dead last.

It might be noted with grimness here that I failed miserably with Stalybridge in that dynasty (although I had better success in Cwmbran Town in Wales), but hopefully I have picked up a few tricks to help me with the game in general.

Game One is coming!

Chief Rum

[Chief Rum]

August 17, 2002

Tommy Ridgely: Welcome, Poppy fans, to the return of Kettering Town football to the Nationwide Conference. I am your host Tommy Ridgely, and it excites me to be able to bring to you the first big match of the season here.

Today, at the Rock, your Poppies will take on the Bees of Barnet, in what should prove to be an exciting opening to a great season of Poppy football!

The Rock is filling up even as we speak. The stands are nearly full, and the terraces are beginning to look crowded, too. It looks like the Poppies will have a raucous home crowd to support them today.

This will be the Conference debut for several new Poppies, including the man-in-charge himself, our new manager Matthew Kieta, in his first season in both Kettering Town and in English football period.

These Bees won't be an easy match to start, though. Picked by many experts to be among the top five sides in the league, the Bees bring talent and experience at both ends of the pitch. The name to watch? New and exciting striker addition Junior Agogo, who is expected to become one of the hot newcomers to the Conference this year. Agogo is known for his eye for the net, and our own Mr. Kieta should know him quite well--the Ghanaian was an offensive catalyst for the American San Jose Quakes last year, where he played behind none other than the Americans' exciting recent World Cup star Landon Donovan!

It looks like the rounds are about wrapped up, and this match is mere minutes away from starting. Let's get to the starting lineups...

7th minute

...Williamson steps in at the midline and intercepts the ball. He dodges to his left toward the touch line as Gower pursues. Williamson is too fast for him, though, racing down the flank like a demon. Excellent defender Pope is up and on him, but he's coming too slow as well, as Williamson keeps it alive down near the corner. Willaimson is swiveling and sends a shot at the box...OH! Murray just couldn't get an angle on that one! Too close to the post and he sends it over the net. Nice play by Williamson, too bad the Poppies couldn't capitalize. We're still notched up at zeros, and Naisbitt will prepare for the goalkick...

8th minute

...Goodwin is playing keepaway from the Bees just outside the box. He's looking for a dumper, and he finds Williamson to his right. Williamson steps toward the box...several Bees closing on...he lets out a hard shot. And Naisbitt clutches it to him! Williamson is really being the catalyst today as he's forcing young Naisbitt to sweat a little, but this one went a little too straight at the keeper...

26th minute[i]

...Pope reaches the ball near the corner of the box and unleashes a long clear out to the Poppies' side of the pitch. The Poppies have been pressing, but--OH! Matthews with the nice interception at the midline and he moves it forward to Williamson. Williamson runs it on, and he has a man! Itonga is out in the open, and Williamson places it at his feet into the box! Naisbitt is moving out...Itonga dodges--OH! he blasted a hard one, but Naisbitt got his hands on it and knocked it away. Pope retrieves it and sends it away. Itonga had just Naisb--oh, but Goodwin has another fine interception and he slides it over to Duik on the left flank. Gower closes down on Duik...he puts a nice floater over to Itonga again. Itonga and Pluck go up for it...oh, a good call but the official that was clearly a push by Pluck. The Poppies will get the freekick...Holyoak setting up his shot from the left spot...he sends a floater down the far side of the box, and Naisbitt can't reach it...oh, but neither can the Poppies as it bounces out for the goal kick. Duik broke too late...Kettering missed a dynamite opening here, Itonga should have put that one in before...

[i]29th minute

...Yakabu with the throw-in...Cook intercepts and knocks it back to Yakabu. The Poppies are pressing--Inman is in Yakobus' face as the midfielder maneuvers for room. He gets a leg in there, but Yakabu retrieves and pushes it back to Cook. Cook digs a little and volleys it toward the box...Agoga has a step on Howarth as he moves under it and--WHAT IS THIS, Bowling out of the box! He's not going to get there, Agogo steps right and fires it! GOOOAAALLLL! Agogo has capitalized on a grievous mistake by the Kettering keeper and has put it in the net! Good Lord, that was as rookie a mistake as I have ever seen from Bowling...What compelled the man to rush out on Agogo that far?...The Bees lead it 1-0...

36th minute

...Pope with the throw-in to Brown. Brown moves it forward--but, wait! An excellent tackle by Goodwin, who sends it out to Duik on the left flank...Oh, a beauty of a pass by Duik...HE"S FOUND MURRAY ON THE RUN! Murray has it and he's charging toward the box, Yakabu desperately on his heels...Naisbitt moves out to intercept--OH!, but a nice sidestep--a SHOT!!...Oh, Good Heavens, it's off the post! Itonga looks to move in...Solomon closing, the ball skirts out...again, oh to the net! NO! Yakabu digs it out with a great lunge! And the ball is in the air! Yakabu reaches and clears...OH MY, the Great Poppy in the Sky has left us dry! To come so close...Murray with the brilliant move, but his shot goes off the far post...he had it free and clear...and Itonga's move was mere inches from the goal, before Yakabu made an amazing save for his keeper! The Poppies are in the bx, but they just haven't pushed it across...

Half Time

...There you have it, folks. We're at the halfway point, and the Poppies are down a goal after a fierce and exciting first half of chances. To come so close...

57th minute

...Inman with the corner...He sends it toward the far side...Agogo and Itonga jump...and Agogo clears it with a header!...Oh, but Inman reaches it on the left. He turns toward the line and is looking for a cross...it flies...OH! And Itonga has it--he shoots! OH! But Naisbitt takes the shot hard and knocks it away...Yakabu has it and he clears long...Matthews intercepts at the midline,a nd he swings it long back to Inman...Inman is racing to the ball int he corner...oh, but Brown will get ther first, and he fends off the midfielder...another missed opportunity for the Poppies...

61st minute

...Naisbitt clears into the Poppies' side...Solkhon leaps up and heads it back...Itonga gathers it up and moves forwarf...he has Murray open and racing! Murray moves on--he's splitting Pluck and Yakabu--THE SHOT! OH! Off of Naisbitt and behind for a corner. That was a strike by Murray! But right at Naisbitt...Inman with the corner...he sends it near post...Murray is close, but Naisbitt reaches it and clutches...

90th minute

...Diuk clears long, deep into Bee territory...The Poppies are coming forward...Naisbitt runs out anc kicks it forward...Brown runs under it and redirects! It's forward on a header to Oshitola--OH! A brilliant move by Oshitola to shake Colley...he's got a step into the box...But Goodwin with a brilliant tackle...only Oshitola to recover, though...he sidest--AND SHOOTS! GOOOOOAAAAAALLL! The Bees have locked this one up for sure!...The Poppies got caught too forward, and Bowling could do nothing to stop that shot! The Bees go up, 2-0...

Full Time

...Well, Poppies fans, it is a frustrating start to the season, as the Poppies had their chances. They just didn't capitalize on them. If they can get it into the net and cut off the defensive lapses, they just might be able to turn the corner and get this side going strong...

[condors]

great writeup as usual, i thought after the first half you would earn some points in the second half, still a good game as barnet is usually a good squad

[Chief Rum]

Yeah, condors, I thought we might get one across with the way we were pressing them and getting action in their half of the pitch, but it just didn't happen. I know sometimes that's how it is, especially with a tough team like Barnet.

Wish me luck from here on out.

Chief Rum

[Chief Rum]

VOIDED--THIS DIDN't HAPPEN

August 21, 2002

Northampton Chronicle & Echo

Poppies Zeroed Again

STEVENAGE-- Two matches into the season, and the Poppies have yet to score a goal.

After being shut out by Barnet Saturday, the Kettering Town Conference side was shut out again, 1-0, by Stevenage Borough at Broadhall Way in Stevenage on Tuesday--and it wasn't really that close.

The Boro' dominated the match, putting constant pressure on the Poppies' defense and on goalkeeper Ian Bowling. They took 13 shots, including nine on net, to the Poppies' two. They also had an amazing 16-1 advantage in corners.

The Poppies did well to limit the Boro' in the first half, allowing just five shots on net. But the Boro' came out strong in the second half, when they were constantly in the Poppies' half of the pitch.

In the 48th minute, Barnet midfield import Leon Bell drove a spectacular drive through a gaping hole in Kettering's defense, forcing Bowling to make a hard save on the shot. That left him in poor position for the followup, though, as striker Justin Richards stepped up to knock in the rebound for the match's only score.

The Poppies' best chance came just before Richard's score. Striker Carlin Itonga made a brilliant tackle on sweeper Jason Goodliffe to free up the ball in the Boro' end of the pitch. Itonga had a free run to the net, but appeared to take too long to commit to a shot. Stevenage defender Barry Laker came around and knocked the ball away from itonga before he could get a shot off.

Kettering next plays Scarborough at Rockingham Road on Saturday.

[Neuqua]

Wow, I just found this thread now.

Great job so far Chief, keep it comin'.

[Chief Rum]

Thanks, Neuq. If I didn't keep having computer problems, I would be keeping it coming pretty steady.

Herte's the latest--the week since the Barnet game has been eliminated, because the game froze up on me before I saved it. This actually happened the same night I posted the Stevenage article, of course, but I didn't have the heart at the time to mention it. I also had some things I was trying to do go belly up with it (although they are small and reproduceable things).

Anyway, the whole Stevenage loss was lost and I am back to August 17, just after the Barnet match. So please ignore all that followed (basically the Stevenage match), as I begin anew.

CR

[Chief Rum]

August 18, 2002

Northampton Chronicle & Echo

Nationwide Conference Wrap Up

Dag & Red 2, Telford 0 Welsh keeper Tony Roberts got Dag & Red off to a nice start with a shutout of Telford in Dagenham. The defense was exceptionally tight, as Telford failed to get a single shot off. Dag & Red, picked by many as the favorite to win the Conference this year, got scores from reserve striker Mark Stein and midfielder Paul Terry.

Doncaster 2, Leigh RMI 0 The Rovers ran roughshod over Leigh RMI in a shutout victory Saturday in Doncaster. The game featured a tight Doncaster defense which allowed Leigh RMI just two shots on the net, and an active offense with 14 shots by the Rovers. Andy Warrington got the zero, while exciting Scottish forward Jamie Paterson scored a goal, along with striker Robert Gill. The match was particularly brutal, as three yellows and a red card were pulled. The red was used on Leigh RMI defensive midfielder Nei Fitzhenry, who took Gill out from under a floating pass with a hard tackle.

Farnborough 1, Northwich Vics 1 The Vics and Farnborough played to a draw after 90 minutes of stunted play in the mid-zone in Farnborough. Neither team gave much leeway to the other in its own end. The Vics got a score in the 29th minute from Carlisle striker import Johnny Allan, but couldn't hold on, as Farnborough's old St. Lucian striker Ken Charlery notched it up in the 70th minute.

Forest Green 1, Morecambe 0 Quick Nigerian striker Kayode Odejayi beat Morecambe to half time with a score in the 45th minute in a defensive match in Forest Green, and longtime Rover keeper Steve Perrin made sure it stood up with a shutout on his end. Just seven shots were taken in the minor upset, 5 of them by Morecambe, which was picked by many to contend for the Conference title this season.

Gravesend & Northfleet 5, Woking 2 The Fleet sent notice to the Conference it wasn't going to just be another lacking recent promotee with a smashing defeat of Woking in Northfleet Kent. The back-and-forth game featured 19 shots on the net, and an own goal by Cardinals defender Dean Austin in the 84th minute. The goal gave The Fleet a 4-2 lead after the two sides had failed to advance a 2-2 tie since the 26th minute of the match. Woking just missed being relegated last season.

Halifax 0, Burton Albion 0 Last season, Haifax Town wss in the Third Division, and Burton Albion was in the lower Unibond League. This season, though, they are rivals in the Conference, and surprisingly, the once lower Brewers of Albion did most of the shooting--5 of the 6 shots--in the match. But it was all for naught, as veteran Lee Butler and Sheffield Utd. import Matt Duke matched each other with shutouts for the draw in Halifax.

Hereford 3, Chester 0 Hereford's Rushden import striker John Grant greeted the Conference with an acclaimed performance, notching three for the hatttick, before the 30th minute was struck in a hot and rainy match at Hereford. Chester got off just 3 shots to Hereford's 16, and lost going away.

Barnet 2, Kettering 0 The Bees survived injuries to starting striker Ben Strevens and halfback Lee Flynn, a fierce attack by the Poppies, and an unfriendly Kettering home crowd to come away with the victory in this one. New Ghanaian striker Junior Agogo, come to the Conference by way of the States' MLS league, scored in his debut, and young forward Tony Oshitola settled it with a score in the 90th minute. The Poppies outshot the Bees 7-4, but failed to get the rock by Bee keeper Daniell Naisbitt. On a far more serious note, Strevens' injury, a broken leg, will put him down for four months, depriving one of the Conference's top sides of one of their best scorers until January.

Margate 3, Southport 0 The Gate used a penalty score, an own goal, and a regular notch to beat up on Southport in Dover. The Gate, expected to be one of the better sides in the Conference this season, got on the board with a penalty kick by Sierra Leonan international midfielder John Keister in the 34th minute, and then doubled it with a score by longtime striker Phil Collins in the 42nd minute. In the second half, Southport's own defender John Moss accidentally knocked a shot into his own net to seal the deal in a dominated match.

Yeovil 3, Nuneaton Borough 1 Yeovil won a much tougher match than it would appear in Nuneaton, using two penalties in the second half to account for the difference. Yeovil took a 1-0 lead off of an early forward Gavin Williams' score, and a man advantage, courtesy of a red card to Nuneaton's veteran midfielder Mickey Brown. Nonetheless, Nuneaton fought well, and even tied it in the 51st minute with a score by former Yeovil striker Carl Alford. But scrambling to overcome their missing eleventh, Nuneaton was forced to play it tight, and that resulted in penalty kicks in the 54th and 90th minutes, both converted by Yeovil striker Adam Stansfield.

Stevenage 1, Scarborough 0 Scarborough got more shots off, but they weren't good shots, in a tight loss to Stevenage in Scarborough. The two Boros combined for just 10 shots, and the only one that went in was a 56th minute score by Stevenage striker Charlie MacDonald. French keeper and Cambridge import Lionel Perez was good to keep Scarborough out of the net in his Conference debut.

[Chief Rum]

August 18, 2002

Northant Evening Telegraph

Poppies Courting Houghton?

KETTERING-- Kettering manager Matthew Kieta is still looking to fill out his staff.

Is Ray Houghton available?

Rumors abound that the Conference Poppies have made an offer for the former Irish international midfield star to join the coaching staff. Houghton, a former coach of Crystal Palace after 20-year career which included top turns with Liverpool and Aston Villa, has been interested in re-entering the coaching ranks since his dismissal from Crystal Palace last season.

Kieta could not be reached for comment, and the team offices at Rockingham Road were closed Sunday.

Houghton, reached at his home in Glasgow, Scotland, would not comment on any offers he had received.

The Poppies hired Steve Thompson last month to be the side's assistant manager, but Kieta has often expressed a desire to expand the coaching and scouting staffs.

[Chief Rum]

August 19, 2002

Northampton Chronicle & Echo

Poppies Sign New Coach--But Not Houghton

KETTERING-- The Kettering Town Poppies announced Sunday they had hired well-regarded coach Shaun Reid to help with team training and match preparation, even as rumors were flying throw the soccer world that the Conference side was actually pursuing former Irish midfield star Ray Houghton to serve ina similar capacity.

Reid, 36, has served with several lower level clubs in recent years, after a playing career of little note ended a decade ago.

Confusion abounded when the team announced the hiring, since reports Sunday indicated they were pursuing Houghton, who starred for Liverpool and Aston Villa in the early 90s, and was a stalwart of Ireland's national team for much of the last 20 years.

Kieta refused to comment Sunday, and the team offices were closed, so little hint has been given on whether the Houghton reports are false or were mixed up with the Reid hiring.

One team source, who spoke on the condition of anonymity, said the Houghton offer was real, and wholely separate from the Reid deal. This source also indicated that Kieta was heavily in the midst of a large round fo both staff and player moves, many of which will be announced over the next few days.

[Chief Rum]

August 20, 2002

Northhampton Chronicle & Echo

Kieta Confirms Houghton Interest

KETTERING-- Kettering Town manager Matthew Kieta confirmed that the Poppies have made an offer to former midfield star Ray Houghton to serve as a coach with the side this season.

Getting Houghton, 40, would be a public relations coup for the financially frugal Poppies, as his presence would likely garner much further interest in the club. Houghton, who has coached with Crystal Palace, is better known for his playing days with Liverpool and Aston Villa in the 1990s, and for his turns with the Irish national side.

"Handling a club this large is time consuming, so I need the help," Kieta said. "I have a healthy respect for the experience and leadership abilities of a man like [Houghton]."

Kieta said he has spoken to Houghton, currently at his home in Glasgow, Scotland, on the phone and that the interest is mutual if financials can be arranged.

There are rumors that if Houghton were hired, he might be given Steve Thompson's assistant manager spot, a position Thompson was hired for just last month. Kieta denied the rumors, though, saying he "made the right choice the first time" with Thompson.

Houghton, as a former Division One coach and having such reknown in the British Isles, is expected to be a costly hire for any club below the top levels, but Kieta said that both sides were aware of the Poppies' financial situation and were trying to work a way around it.

Kieta gave no timetable for when a decision might be reached.

Houghton could not be reached for comment, nor could team chairman Peter Mallinger.

The Poppies also hired a new coach, Shaun Reid, on Sunday, contributing to a confusing media storm surrounding the rumors on Houghton. Kieta said Reid would be of immense help with a lot fo the fitness-based coaching, as he has physio experience and is a noted workout feind from his playing days.

"If anyone can help my trainers get our guys into shop and still playing in top form, Andy can," Kieta assured.

Kieta refused to comment on any further staff movements, or rumors of player movements as well.

[Chief Rum]

August 20, 2002

Northhampton Chronicle & Echo

Match Day

KETTERING-- By the time you read this, the Poppies will already be on their way to Stevenage for their first away match in the Conference this season. The match will be played tonight at 7:30 p.m. at Broadway Hall, the Boro's home ground.

The Kettering-Stevenage is just one of a full slate of Conference matchups tonight, as the full table will be in action.

Kettering lost its home opener to Barnet, 2-0, on Saturday, while Stevenage beat Scarborough on the road, 1-0.

Although Kettering did well on offense early in its preseason friendly, it has failed to score in its last two matches, including the friendly-fixture-ending shutout loss to Leyton Orient on August 6. It is also regarded as a team that is not too deep nor talented up front.

Kieta said he might do some lineup tinkering tonight.

"Don't hold me to it, though," Kieta said. "Or expect me to stay consistent. As a side, we are still trying to find the best lineup and tactic that works well together, and you will likely see me tinkering with this for a while yet. I also like to make regular rotations, and few of the guys will be playing in most of the matches this season, as I try to keep everyone fresh."

Kieta said centre back Bret Solkhon would not be available tonight, as he is still recovering from a tough Barnet match, which hit the Poppies' fullbacks hard.

Other Conference Matchups

Match of the Night: Doncaster at Morecambe-- These two teams are both expected to be among the best sides in the Conference this year, although they got off to different starts on Saturday. The Rovers rolled over Leigh RMI, 2-0, at home Saturday, but the Shrimps of Morecambe fell in a tough defensive battle at Forest Green, 1-0.

Also tonight:

Forest Green at Barnet
Gravesend & Northfleet at Burton Albion
Margate at Chester
Dag & Red at Leigh RMI
Halifax at Northwich
Nuneaton Borough at Southport
Kettering at Stevenage
Hereford at Telford
Scarborough at Woking
Farnborough at Yeovil

[Chief Rum]

August 21, 2002

Northampton Chronicle & Echo

Poppies Punchless In Defeat

STEVENAGE-- For all the lively news this side has generated in the papers the past few days, the players themselves might as well be comatose.

Stevenage defeated the Poppies, 1-0, in a match that wasn't nearly as close as it would seem Tuesday night. The Boro' dominated the ballplay, and never let the Poppies get a sniff at the goal, allowing just one wayward shot in the net's general direction.

The Conference match at Stevenage was the Boro's home opener, and both teams' second match of the season, which opened Saturday.

The Poppies were fortunate to escape with just a 1-0 loss, as the Boro' had a goal by striker Anthony Elding disallowed for an offsides in the 37th minute, and home team peppered Kettering's keeper Ian Bowling with 11 shots, five on target.

The difference maker came early. In the 18th minute, Elding, who was sharp all match, got a breakaway from a long pass and broke toward the box. He dished off to his forward partner Charlie MacDonald, and Bowling was unable to cross over in time to stop the close up MacDonald's blast into the lower right corner of the net.

Both MacDonald and Elding were extremely active in front of the net, getting several good chances. Elding gained reknown as an exciting striker with Boston United last season, the side which would eventually win the Conference and move up to the League.

The Poppies seemed to be stunted by an inability to pass, as Stevenage's pressure system and able passing limited Kettering's ability to move the ball effectively or take it back from the Boro'.

The offensive lethargy is likely to bring some heat on new Kettering manager Matthew Kieta, who's side has failed to score in its first two matches of the season, and hasn't scored in a match at all since its second to last friendly on August 1.

The Poppies have been garnering national attention for their pursuit of former Irish international-Liverpool-Aston Villa midfield star Ray Houghton for their coaching staff.

Kieta refused comment after the match, and refused to allow the media to talk to the players.

[Chief Rum]

August 21, 2003

Northampton Chronicle & Echo

Nationwide Conference Wrap Up

Barnet 3, Forest Green 0 This one was over before the Bees' fans got their first buzz. Exciting midfield import Lee Cook from Watford continued to display the terrific ball play he showed against Kettering on Saturday, scoring two goals in the first 12 minutes of the match in Barnet's home opener. Bee keeper Daniel Naisbitt got his second shut out of the young season, although the credit for this one goes to the active Barnet defense, which allowed just one shot on goal.

Gravesend & Northfleet 2, Burton Albion 0 The Fleet put up five goals and 13 shots against Woking Saturday. On Tuesday night, though, they managed just three shots against felow promotee Burton Albion on its home pitch. But they made the most of their chances. In the 44th minute, forward Mark Bentley scored to get the first goal on the board. The Fleet then held on behind solid defensive play, limiting Burton to a matching three shots on goal. In the 90th minute, the victory was sealed by an own goal by defender Stuart Reddington.

Chester 2, Margate 1 Continuing a seeming trend early in this Conference season, Chester used a goal from an unexpected source to prove victorious on its home pitch against the well-regarded Gate of Margate. Chester was knocking on the door for much of the match, but the Gate's keeper Phil Smith proved to be too tough to take--until he kicked it in himself! In an odd and egregious error, Smith misplayed a ball that was kicked back to him by his defenders in the 53rd minute, and the ball accidentally crossed over the touch line for the score. It would prove the difference in the end.

Leigh RMI 2, Dag & Red 1 This match is proof for why they always play the games. Leigh RMI was dominated by Doncaster Saturday, and Dag & Red was picked as the favorite to win promotion to the League this year. So, of course, the Railway Men play the strong side on their home pitch, and jump to a 2-0 lead by the 24th minute, before the Daggers even get going. Strikers Keith Scott and Scott Fitzgerald got the two scores that would eventually be the key in a minor upset.

Doncaster 3, Morecambe 1 Were the pundits too quick to name Morecambe as one of the Conference's better sides? Or is Doncaster just this good? Rovers' striker Robert Gill scored for the second match in a row in the 5th minute, setting the tone early on. Doncaster's side did well to shut down Morecambe's attack, but didn't put the match away until a penalty score by Northwich striker import Greg Blundell in the 56th minute. Morecambe, playing its home opener after showing feeble form in a loss to Forest Green Saturday, managed just four total shots, and didn't score its goal until the 85th minute.

Northwich 2, Halifax 1 Carlisle import Johnny Allan scored a final minutes goal to clinch a hard home victory over visiting Halifax. In a defensive match, the two sides remained tied at 1-1 for much of the way. Not all was good for the Vics, though--Man United midfield import Andy Taylor broke his wrist in the 73rd minute, and will liekly be out until mid-September at least.

Southport 3, Nuneaton Borough 0 Former West Bromich and Preston striker Lee Ashcroft just missed the hat, as he notched up two goals in a strong victory for Southport in its home opener. The match was a defensive one, but Nuneaton resorted to too many risky tactics, earning them two penalty fouls. Ashcroft kicked both, converting the first in the 31st minute and missing the second in the 37th minute. He also put Southport up to the early lead in the 16th minute, and Southport had three goals by halftime.

Stevenage 1, Kettering 0 Stevenage dominated play ont he pitch in their home opener, allowing the Poppies just one shot at the net. The Boro' pressed strongly and had several good chances on the net before accepting the closer-than-reality one goal victory.

Telford 3, Hereford 0 Striker Paul Smith didn't wait long to make a statement at Telford's season home opener. He set the tone for a blowout with a quick 1st minute score to put the Bucks up. They never looked back, domianting play on the pitch and putting up a 3-0 lead by halftime. Bulls' striker John Grant, who scored a hat against Chester Saturday, was limited to just one errant shot.

Woking 4, Scarborough 0 The prodigal son returns. Former Woking striker Warren Patmore, who was a leading scorer with Woking two seasons ago, returned from a stint with Rushden in style, scoring a hat trick to blitz Scarborough before the halftime whistle. All four Woking goals came before the midpoint, as they made good on just five shots.

Yeovil 0, Farnborough 0 For the second straight match, Farnborough showed it isn't too big on offense. Fortunately for the Boro, Yeovil wasn't any better. The defensive match featured just seven total shots--five by hometown Yeovil--before succumbing to the draw.

[Chief Rum]

August 21, 2003--midafternoon

Tommy Ridgely: And now for your daily Poppy news...

Many of you have expressed displeasure about the lack of scoring ways your Poppies have exhibited yet int his young season, but have no fear, Mr. Kieta hears you!

Even as we speak, Kettering Town has acquired the loan rights to three separate upper division players, including two strikers. And they are also horning on yet another coach and a couple more scouts.

But the big news comes from Glasgow! Sorry, folks, but Ray Houghton is NOT coming to Kettering Town. He gave a brief interview out front of his home in Scotland earlier today, announcing his decision.

Sound bite, Houghton: "I have decided to turn down Mr. Kieta's offer to join Kettering, after much thought on it. I feel I am more suited to upper division ball, and the Poppies just aren't there yet, although I have confidence they will be there one day."

Is this a bitter blow for Poppies, coming off their miserable performance last night? Or does this just mean more monies for other ends?

Houghton, who delighted us with creative play on the pitch from the grounds of Liverpool and Aston Villa, and whom we hated as a leader of the Irish national side, is regarded as a potential future manager. Did the fact he wouldn't be assistant manager at least figure into it? Houghton wouldn't say, but my gut says yes.

No word yet on who the players or the coaches are that the Poppies are bringing in, but Kettering has announced a press conference tomorrow at the Rock at noon to discuss the moves and the Poppies...

[Chief Rum]

August 21, 2003

Northant Evening Telegraph

Poppies Without Pop--On Offense

by Roger Terndon

On an uncharacteristically chippy July night, the Poppies were well-matched with the cold Tuesday at Stevenage. Well, at least they were on the rare occasions they ventured into the Boro's half of the pitch.

In their own end, they were as lively as ever--because they had to be. Stevenage was all over the place, and no one on the back line could keep up with strikers Charlie MacDonald or Anthony Elding.

The frustration on the Poppies' faces was palpable, and it registered itself with an ugly sort of match that I hope I have tow itness again few times in the future. The Poppies were nailed for 17 fouls, and I wouldn't argue too much with the officials in their calls either.

Not that that stopped the Poppies from doing so. At several points during the match, it was clear the Poppies were at odds with the whistle blowers. Wayne Duik got a dressing down. Danny Holyoak argued with a ref in the first half, and got a yellow card in the second. Niall Inman argued with a ref. Davy Williamson scored a yellow. It was just a brutal ugly match.

And through it all, the Poppies got just one shot off, by Shaun Murray, and they needed a free kick to get a chance at it (Murray shot it wide right).

If rigor mortis is the theme of the offense this season, and bitter in-fighting and ugly fouls is the standard on defense, than this is going to be a long, long season for the Poppies.

Will Saturday's match end the scoring drought for this side? It will be at the Rock, where the Poppies played much better against Barnet, and Scarborough is no Barnet Bees. We can only hope so.

At least it is now clear that manager Matthew Kieta is aware of the problems--we couldn't be too sure before. Word is he has worked out loan agreements for three upper division players, and all the talk this week has been about his filling out his coaching staff.

We'll meet the players and new staff tomorrow, but we won't know their impact for a bit longer, I fear

[Chief Rum]

August 22, 2002

Northampton Chronicle & Echo

Poppies Bring In New Blood

KETTERING-- It appears that Kettering manager Matthew Kieta is finally filling out his coaching staff--just a month later than expected. And maybe he has found some help for the lagging offense as well.

Kettering announced last night that they had successfully negotiated the loans of three new players--striker Chris Thompson from First Division Grimsby Town, forward Ryan Trudgian from the Second Division Plymouth Argyle, and fullback Andy Dowie from none other than the Rangers of Scotland.

They also announced the hiring of their second coach of the week in Raymond Starrett, and of two new scouts in Ian John and Chris Lynch.

The club also confirmed that they had failed to bring Ray Houghton into the Kettering coaching staff, as was reported by numerous media Wednesday and by Houghton himself. Houghton, of Liverpool and international Irish midfield fame, has been considering a return to coaching in recent weeks.

Thompson, 20, is described as a strong striker with a nose for the net and a defensive mentality on the ball. As such, he should be ideal around the box, and tough to kncok off. He has played with the Grimsby Reserves for the past two seasons, before debuting with Liverpool's U-19 squad in 1999.

Trudgian, 18, isn't as developed as Thompson but has some skills that Thompson lacks, including being a tall striker. He is very adept on crosses and can outreach most players, which should make him an ideal target for strong winger crossers like Niall Inman and Wayne Duik. He has played with the Plymouth Reserves and youth squad for three seasons.

The Scotsman Dowie, 19, comes to Kettering as a defender, but early indications are that he will play a more forward position, like defensive midfielder. Dowie is a bit of a hot head at times, by reports, but he is a speedy racer with great foot skills and an eye for the pass. He is also left-footed, which is a rarity on this side. He has been with the Rangers' reserves for two seasons.

All three will return to their teams at the end of the 2002-03 season, barring a future transfer. This fills up three of the Poppies' four allowed slots for loan players, as per Nationwide Conference rules.

The Northern Irish-born Starrett, 35, is considered to be an up-and-coming coach, and both young John, 30, and the veteran Lynch, 52, are considered to be excellent scouting hires for a Conference side.

Kettering has scheduled a press conference at noon at Rockingham Road to announce the moves.

[Chief Rum]

August 22, 2002

Kettering Press Conference

(The scene is similar to the press conference where Matthew Kieta was first introduced. It is under a canopy near the team offices in front of the ground. Both local media and a couple radio reporters are on hand, as well as a healthy grouping of fans, held back by security. A podium sits at the team end of the canopy. At exactly noon, the team offices door opens, and Kieta emerges with his entire coaching and scouting staff, new and old. No players are present, nor is chairman Peter Mallinger, although several representatives of the club's public relations department are present and running the show. Kieta walks up to the podium, as his staff takes some chairs set out behind the podium.)

Kieta: Thank you for coming, ladies and gentlemen of the media. Before we begin, I would like to read a prepared statement about our latest moves, and introduce our new coaches and scouts. Then I will open the floor to questions. And don't be too harsh--the players are at lunch inside and they can hear you all--they are really quite a sensitive bunch...(grins, the media chuckles...)

Kieta: Okay, then let's get to it. {Looking down at a card before him on the podium) I am proud to announce the hiring of two new coaches and two new scouts to the Kettering Town staff, including Shaun Reid (turning and presenting to the appropriate person in turn, each of whom stands briefly), Raymond Starrett, Ian John and Kevin Lynch. I can't say enough about the character and abilities of these four men. I am certain they will make fine additions to what I believe is already as top notch a staff as any in semi-professional football. I also wanted to confirm that we made an approach to Mr. Ray Houghton for a position on the staff as well, but unfortunately, we were unable to agree to terms. I wish Mr. Houghton all the best in what I am certain will be a brilliant career in coaching football. We have also come to loan terms with forwards Chris Thompson of Grimsby Town and Ryan Trudgian of Plymouth, and with defensive midfielder Andy Dowie of the Rangers, whom, of course, are a noted power of the Scottish Premier League. They are still en route to Kettering today and couldn't be here for this press conference, but they will be in uniform on Saturday. It is my belief that every single move today will pay vast dividends to the Poppies and our faithful fans in the future, in the form of both victories and, God willing, promotion to the League. I will know open the floor to questions...Yes, Roger?

Roger Terndon: Can you detail for us how the Houghton negotiations went? And how it came to be that a Conference side like the Poppies would be in the running for a football personalit of his reknown?

Kieta: Sure thing. It really started off as a shot in the dark, Roger. I had heard through the coaching grapevine that Ray was an able coach, and I already know from his playing days that he is a great leader. When he got dismissed from Crystal Palace, I think it was a bit of a shock for him, because he didn't want to leap back into the fold. So he missed out on some of the early openings. Now that we're so far past the preseason, he has probably gotten that itch to retuirn to football in some capacity, even if it's for a Conference side like us. I contacted him, and found that there was some mutual interest. Unfortunately, we weren't able to go much further beyond that.

N C&E beat reporter: Why was that?

Kieta: I'm sure money entered into it a little bit. Right from the beginning we knew we could only offer Ray a fraction of what he could get from a higher division club. But in the end, that mattered little to Ray, I think. As he said yesterday, the fact we weren't at a high enough level was the main stumbling block.

N C&E beat reporter: Did the Houghton negotiations have any effect on your other coaching decisions?

Kieta: Not at all. Shaun was hired before we even got into serious negotiations with Houghton, and Raymond here was going to be hired no matter what, as he will be handling an entirely different area of the coaching staff responsibilities than what I had planned for Ray Houghton.

N.E.T. beat reporter: Could you give us a run down of what those responsibilities will be and how they will be delegated?

Kieta: Sure. Steve is my assistant manager, of course. His main responsiblity is to run the reserve squad and watch over player development, as well as other off-field responsibilities. He is my right hand man. Chris Swift is the guy the players know, from his days coaching under Carl Shutt. He brings us invaluable coaching experience with this side, and is a strong field coach himself besides. Shaun is going to help Steve with the outfield coaching, and is just brilliant at getting the most out of these guys. And Raymond is my personnel and tactical evaluator. I have met few men who can pick out the talent Raymond can, and if there's a person in the Conference who understands the nuances of the various tactics as well as Raymond, I have yet to meet him. Peter Lake and Chris Palmer are my trainers and handle the physical training and keep my players fit. Then Darren Davis, Ian and Chris will handle my scouting.

Roger Terndon: Do you think these new players will kickstart the offense?

Kieta: Honestly, I think we're just going through a bad stretch of form right now. That said, I would imagine that all three will contribute a lot to the offense. What it gives us now that we didn't have before is some depth. I will no longer have to rely on a small number of players to create offense, and I will also have a lot more options for lineup matching. And most important is that the addition of Thompson and Trudgian will allow me to move Shaun Murray back to the midfield, where I think he can be more effective. And Dowie will take some of the pressure off of Murray, Davy Williamson and the wingers to be playmakers.

Tommy Ridgely: There has been talk of Dowie being a difficult player to handle. What have you heard, and how will you handle it?

Kieta: Well, rumors are rumors. No one comes to this club with a reputation, at least not in my book. It's what you do here that matters, and Andy Dowie wil come with a clean slate. I have spoken with Mr. McLeish from the Rangers, and he assures me that, while Andy is passionate and active, he has a fiery heart and a dedicated footballer. I would say that's a pretty good testimonial from a man who would know.

N.E.T. beat reporter: Will all three start?

Kieta: They will get looks, and as with the rest of the players, some will start more than others. It will be the play on the pitch and in practice that determines it, though. I have said before that I will be using a lot of lineup rotation, and that is still true. This season will be a complete team effort, from the most well-respected player to the last reserve on the youth squad.

Mallory Walken, N C&E soccer columnist: Will you be changing your tactics at all to try and generate more offense?

Kieta: That's almost a certainty, Ms. Walken, although I assure you it would likely change as much even with two victories and ten goals to start the season. I have always felt that when you stick with one tactic, the opponents who know you well will learn to break it and beat it. It is inevitable. So I plan to vary my tactics, so opponents won't be able to prepare for us so easily. I won't say what other tactics I am considering, though, since, well, Scarborough might be listening on, you know (winks at the crowd, and smiles)

N C&E beat reporter: Are you concerned at all about starting the season off so poorly? And what about some of the brutal play we saw in Stevenage the other night?

Kieta: I am as concerned as anyone, of course. But I have every confidence in this side. We will get there. We just need to work at it, and I know I have the quality of man I need on this team to make that happen. As for the fouls, I lectured the team about that after the match. I'm not against a little rough housing, but we had way too much arguing with the refs. When you're in a tight match like Tuesday's, you can't afford having the officials run against you as well as the other side. You have to understand, though, that it was a very frustrating evening. I have to hand it to the Boro--they took us out of our game. Only I can be to blame for that--I should have had the players better prepared. Next time, they certainly will be. And, now, folks, thank you for your time, but we must be off. The afternoon practice is going to begin ina few minutes, and my staff and I have yet to hit the lunch line. So thank you again, and be sure to attend our match this Saturday against Scarborough. Good day.

(Kieta walks away from the podium for the team office, leaving the media behind and leading his itinerary of coaches with him.)

[Chief Rum]

August 23, 2002

London Times

Arsenal Purchase DaCourt From Leeds

LONDON-- Seeking some new blood at the back end of their midfield, Arsenal agreed to a £4.2 M transfer fee for the rights to well-regarded French midfielder Olivier DaCourt. DaCourt, in Italy, agreed to join the club soon after the transfer was announced.

DaCourt, 27, had been about to start a loan stint with Roma of the Serie A league in Italy. He was recalled Thursday and is returning to London.

The defensive midfielder was a fixture of Leeds' midfield in 2001-02, but his play became more limited last season. When it became clear that he wasn't going to get more playing time this season, Leeds put him on loan, which led to the brief move to Roma.

DaCourt joins a side which is well-known for its French stars. Striker Thierry Henry, attacking midfielder Robert Pires, and fellow defensive midfielder Patrick Vieira all applauded the decision to bring in their countryman Thursday.

"Olivier is a dedicated and hard-working player," Thierry said. "He will bring new life to this side, and give us excellent depth behind Patrick."

DaCourt has seen some very limited action with the French national team in recent years, appearing three matches so far.

Arsenal manager Arsène Wenger said he had long sought to bring DaCourt over to the Arsenal.

"He belongs here," Wenger said. "Leeds wasn't using him anyway."

[Chief Rum]

August 24, 2002

Northampton Chroncile & Echo

Match Day

KETTERING-- Today brings to conclusion what has been an intriguing week for the Kettering Town Poppies.

They started it last Saturday with a hard fought 2-0 loss against Barnet at Rockingham Road. They also lost an ugly match at Stevenage Tuesday night. And in and around the matches, they made other news.

Kettering's and manager Matthew Kieta's name appeared in national papers most of the week for the Poppies' pursuit of famed Irish midfield star-turned-coach Ray Houghton for a coaching position with the team. Although the venture was unsuccessful, it was notable for being attempted at all by a Conference side.

The failure to land Houghton didn't stop the Poppies from hiring two other coaches in Shaun Reid and Raymond Starrett this week. They also added two well-regarded scouts in Chris Lynch and Ian John.

Finally, the Poppies addressed the team on the pitch, working out loan agreements for three players expected to help the club generate more offense. Striker Chris Thompson from Grimsby Town, forward Ryan Trudgian from Plymouth, and midfielder Andy Dowie from the Rangers are all with the team and are set to make their debut in today's match.

Scarborough comes into the Rock to become the first side to face Kettering with the new additions in place. Scarborough, like Kettering, has yet to score in the Conference season, opening with a 1-0 loss to Stevenage at home last Saturday, and a 4-0 obliteration on the road against Woking.

Other Conference Matches

Match of the Day: Barnet at Doncaster-- The Rovers are rolling right now, having dominated Leigh RMI, 2-0, at home last Saturday, and then following it up with an even stringer 3-1 defeat of Morecambe on the road. The defense has been spectacular, allowing just six total shots in the two matches. The Bees have been nearly as dominant. They did well to come out of Kettering with a 2-0 victory last Saturday, and then they waxed Forest Green, 3-0, in the home opener. Both teams were picked to be among the best in the table prior to the season.

Also tonight:

Woking at Burton Albion
Morecambe at Dag & Red
Southport at Farnborough
Stevenage at Forest Green
Northwich at Gravesend & Northfleet
Yeovil at Halifax
Leigh RMI at Hereford
Scarborough at Kettering
Telford at Margate
Chester at Nuneaton Borough

[condors]

ouch tough start so far

[Chief Rum]

Yes, condors, it has been. Hopefully we can make up for it, though. It's still just two matches, and we were competitive in the Barnet one.

CR

[Chief Rum]

August 24, 2002

Tommy Ridgely: Poppy fans, the start of the match is just seconds away, as the players come on the pitch.

It looks like all three new additions will be in the lineup this week. Chris Thompson will be at Itonga's normal spot, and Ryan Trudgian will be at Murray's. Shaun Murray was pushed back to an attacking midfield spot ina new tactic, which will get to ina bit. Scotsman Andy Dowie will man one of the midfield spots. Also, Brett Solkhon will return to the lineup today after missing the Stevenage match with soreness from last Saturday's Barnet match. Solkhon played strong ball against barnet, and the defense definitely missed him in Stevenage.

Now, for the big news. As Mr. Kieta said he would, he is tinkering with the lineup and the tactics, and today, it appears his men will march out in a three-defender set, mostly huddled in front of the box. Howarth and Norman are back in the center with Solkhon as company.

In front of them will be a full five midfielders, including Murray. Niall Inman and Scott Goodwin will take the wide spots. Dowie and Dany Holyoak will form a defensive midfield middle. And Murray will take the advance position and play the free role that has been thrust upon him so far in this young season.

And, as mentioned, the front crew will feature the Poppies' two new striker additions, Thompson and Trudgian. Will it be TNT, the new powerful striker explosion we have envisioned in our dreams? Or will it be a dud? Only time will tell.

While I am certain both will use any and all means in their disposal to score, Mr. Kieta assured me that Thompson is meant to be the creator, the guy with a iron shot blast, while Trudgian is the air man, the target for those wicked crosses by Inman and Goodwin.

The Boro played a tight match at home against Stevenage last Saturday before falling, 1-0. Tuesday, though, they were absolutely obliterated by Woking on the road. So this is not a hot team by any means. The first goal scored will be the first for either side, assuming one is scored at all, of course. May the Good Lord spare us from a 0-0 slugfest.

The players look set, and the ref is about to blow his whistle. Scarborough will start with it, so let's go to the match...

1st minute

...Campbell cuts it back to David Holdsworth to start it up. Holdsworth has Thompson near him. He moves down to the right wing--still not across the mid line. Thompson approaches...Holdsworth lofts the ball toward the left end of the midline and Dryden. Dryden collects it under pressure--OH! But a sharp interception by Inman! He's got a clear pitch down the right wing, Dryden in pursuit. Woods is moving over...Inman is closing to the corner and turning to the net...Dryden still behind. TNT are approaching the box! Thompson a step on Holdsworth! Inman with the cross...to Thompson!....GOAL! He blasted it passed Woods! And the Poppies are no longer scoreless this young season! What a debut kick for Thompson! Woods was on him, but he just couldn't handle the sheer strength of the Thompson's kick. It flew past him with nary a move toward it, right in the back of the net!...

3rd minute

...Gilroy sets up for the free kick. This one is just outside the box. Bowling is set. He steps up, looks like a shot coming...oh, but he shoots it too high! That shot was nowhere near the net, way over the bar!...

29th minute

...Goodwin with the throw in...Holyoak knocks it back to Norman on the line. Fatokun applying the pressure...but Norman shoots it forward, ricocheting off of Baker...and finds Thompson alone near the box! Thompson is trying to run onto the ball as Henry and Jordan close down, but he gets there...Thompson turns and lifts a floater into the goal box...There's Trudgian! Oh, but a soft header just falls into Woods' hands. Trudgian was well put off by Ridler there, but a nice setup by Thompson...

31st minute

...Inman with the corner...he sends it spiralling high throught he goal box--It's Fatokun with the head clear...Norman leads the mass and reaches is first...still a mass in the box...Norman centres it...Trudgian! Scores! GOOOOOOOAAAAAAAALLLLLL! What a beautiful play, and, oh, the Boro are playing bad defense. How that pass wheedled its way in there I'll never know. There must have been four Boro defenders near Trudgian when he got to that one...he simply turned and powered it to the net, and he was too close for Woods to react in time! The Gods are similing on Mr. Kieta today! Both of his striker adds have scored in their debuts, and the Poppies have a 2-0 lead! Oh, the terraces are swaying...

Halftime

...Well, well, what a difference a loan makes, eh? Kettering holds a commanding 2-0 lead over the Boro, who seem completely unable to get any offense going. The trio of Howarth, Norman and Solkhon have been dominant in the air and with the clear outs, and Norman even nabbed an assist on the Trudgian score. TNT have been fantastic, each scoring today already!...

53rd minute

...Trudgian brings the ball down on his feet in the box! Back to the goal, but turning...OH! Here comes Baker with a nice steal, and Holdsworth clears it to the right...Goodwin comes down with it and advances toward the middle...not under pressure...he turns and knocks it foward, but Woods intercepts and holds!...That was rather weak all around...the defenders were nowhere near, but Goodwin's kick was as soft as a baby's blanket...Woods wasn't even really near the goal...that should have been the Poppies' third notch of the day...

83rd minute

...Goodwin throws it in...he overshot Thompson a bit, Holdsworth is on it...he sends it far up the right wing...Norman collects it with his head...he moves it forward to Goodwin...under pressure...ditches off to Murray in the middle. But Holdsworth takes it and moves down to Jordan...A brilliant push up by Dowie...Trudigan through on goal! Just Woods to beat...to the letf...OH! But he never saw Hotte! A great save by Hotte and he clears it...Wow, but Trudgian read that one well! He saw Dowie go for the tackle and he was right in place to get the rebound...too bad he never saw Hotte, who undercut the ball from the corner before Trudgian could bury it...

Final whistle

...Well, folks, there you have it. The Poppies take a well-played victory from this match, winning 2-0, against slumping Boro side from Scarborough. Thompson and Trudgian both score on a banner day for Mr. Kieta's new additions, and the Boro are fortunate to escape a worse score. Will this be a vision of things to come?...One can only hope...

[Chief Rum]

August 25, 2002

Northampton Chronicle & Echo

Nationwide Conference Wrap Up[/B]

Burton Albion 2, Woking 1 Christian Moore may not be too well known a striker just yet, but he's working hard to change that. Burton's new striker, who at 29 has never played as high as the Conference, scored two goals early to put the home team up. Burton's early lead and a strong attack helped to put Woking off of it's game, which had been a strong offensive unit to this point in the season. Warren Patmore scored his fourth goal of the season late in the match to close the gap a little.


Dag & Red 3, Morecambe 2 Morecambe must be trying to make up for a much poorer than expected start, because the Daggers, the preseason favorite, had all they could handle on their own pitch to fight the Shrimps off. Dag & Red dorward Danny Shipp did well in a rare start at striker, scoring two goals, both of which broke a tie. The Shrimps' Robbie Talbot, one of the leading returning scorers in the Conference last season, broke his scoreless draught and put in his first goal of the season in the 69th minute to tie it up at 1-1, only to watch Shipp put the Daggers ahead with his second goal in the 79th minute. Daggers' striker Adam Williams put a nail in it with a follow up score in the 82nd minute, although the Shrimps did get another score before time ran out.

Doncaster 3, Barnet 0 The Rovers continue to prove they are the real deal. They solidify their table-topping turn by beating a solid Barnet team, albeit in Doncaster. The match was more tightly contested than it would appear--the Bees just couldn't solve Rover's keeper Andy Warrington, who has conceded just one goal in three matches. Paul Barnes gave the Rovers the lead in the 34th minute, and Greg Blundell and Andy Watson put it away with two goals just three minutes apart in the second half. It was Barnet's first loss of the season, and also the first goals they have allowed.

Farnborough 3, Southport 0 The Boro showed they aren't all about defense after all, as they racked up three scores in dominating the 'Port in a home ground match. Farnborough had scored just one goal up until this match, and had drawn twice, with 0-0 and 1-1 scores in the two matches prior to this one. Veteran Ken Charlery continues to play like it doesn't matter how old he is, putting the Boro up early in the 12th minute with a goal. Attacking midfielder tossed in another in the 42nd minute, and the Boro never looked back. The 'Port got just one shot off all match, and Farnborough ranks among league leaders in defense, having allowed just one goal so far this season.

Stevenage 2, Forest Green 1 The surprise of the season kept on rolling. Stevenage, playing far better than experts figured it would, took its second road match and third straight victory, dominating Forest Green on their own pitch. Charley McDonald continues to make an impact, open the scoring with his third goal of the season int he 43rd minute. In the 50th minute, tough Stevenage pressure figured into an accidental own goal by Rovers' defender Jon Richardson. The Rovers did move within one with Nigerian striker Kayode Odejayi's second gaol of the season int he 56th minute, but in reality, this one was all Boro, with a 12-to-three shot advantage.

Northwich 3, Gravesend & Northfleet 2 Say what you will about the Fleet, but they certainly make for an exciting watch. Neither Gravesend nor Northwich were picked to be among the Conference's best, but they have both used strong offensive attacks to make early names of themselves. The Vics of Northwich made a statement by defeating Gravesend on its own pitch. The match was notched at one apiece going into the final minutes of the game, when Northwich's exciting Carlisle import Johnny Allan scored two in quick succession to put the Vics up for good. True to form, Gravesend got within one before falling in a tightly-played match.

Yeovil 2, Halifax 0 Yeovil keeper Chris Weale has played about as well as anyone so far, and Saturday's road match against former D3 side Halifax is no excpetion. Weale faced off nine shots, including six on target, to keep the Shaymen out of the net. Weale and Yeovil are tied for the Conference league lead with just one goal conceded, and are among the league leaders atop the table at the moment. The Glovers got off strong when striker Adam Stansfield, who is doing very well, scored his third goal of the season in the first minute of the match! Thanks to Weale, that's Yeovil would need.

Hereford 2, Leigh RMI 0 Leigh was so dominated by the Bulls of Hereford, that even a penalty kick and a man-advantage would go for naught. Striker Keith Scott missed a penalty kick in the 73rd minute, and Bulls' defendre Andy Tretton was sent off in the 71st minute, but the Railway Men could still only muster two off-target shots all match. Meanwhile, the Bulls delighted the home ground crowd with two scores in the first half, and ten shots on the net all match.

Kettering 2, Scarborough 0 The Poppies finally got on the board after acquiring a couple new faces to add to their attack. New strikers Chris Thompson and Ryan Trudgian both scored early to put Kettering up, with Thompson getting ont he board with a quick first minute score. The Boro were punchless, and have yet to score this season--their attack whithered in front of a strong Popy defense, and got off just one shot in the road match. Scarborough have the embarrassment of being in dead last in the Conference after three matches.

Margate 1, Telford 1 The Gate were lucky to escape their own pitch with a draw Saturday. They applied the pressure to Telford, but the Bucks were the ones to score first, and they almost made it stand up. Striker Peter Smith scored his second goal of the season in the sixth minute, and Margate struggled to get the equaliser for most of the match. Finally in the 60th minute, Phil Collins scored his third goal of the season to tie it up. Collins, coming off of a miserable season, beat his goal total last year and seems to have returned to the form that made him a leading Conference goal scorer for the Gate in previous seasons.

Nuneaton Borough 1, Chester 1 The Boro did everything but score to beat Chester in their match in Nuneaton Saturday. The Boro put 11 shots on the net to the Blues' three, but they could only come away with a draw. The scoring was over with early, when the Boro's defensive midfielder Barry Williams opened the scoring the 16th minute. Chester's striker Ryan Sugden tied it right back up, though, with a goal int he 17th minute. And despite the Boro's heavy pressure, that was it for the match.

INJURIES & BANS

Chester's attacking midfielder Michael Twiss broke his arm in the match against Nuneaton and will miss about a month.

If Scarborough is to become a better offensive team, they will have to do it without starting striker Neil Campbell for a while. Campbell broke his wrist in the match against Kettering Saturday.

Hereford defender Andy Tretton and Halifax's attacking midfielder Phil Clarkson were both sent off with red cards, and will consequently receive automatic single-game bans.

[Chief Rum]

August 29, 2002

London Times

Man U, Celtic Move on, Newcastle Falls In Champions Cup

CHAMPIONS CUP QUALIFYING-- Manchester United defeated Georgian club Kutaisi 4-0 Wednesday in the former Soviet republic to take a two-leg 8-0 victory and advance to the group stage of the Champions Cup. The Celtic beat FC Flora Tallin of Estonia 1-0 in Glasgow to take their leg 5-1, and also move on.

Newcastle United, however, was not so fortunate, despite a 3-0 defeat of Norway's Rosenborg in Newcastle Wednseday. They lost the leg on aggregate, 4-3, to the Norwegian club, thanks to a 4-0 defeat in Norway last week.

Among some other big name clubs that earned advancement via the qualifying yesterday was Germany's FC Bayern, Barcelona of Spain, AEK Athens of Greece, and Inter of Italy.

Newcastle was not alone in missing out on the group stage. Serie A AC Milan heavyweight also lost its leg yesterday, as did Auxerre of the French First League.

The group stage for the Champions Cup, which features the best European clubs of 2002-03, will start on September 9 in various venues.

[Chief Rum]

August 31, 2002

Northampton Chronicle & Echo

Match Day

WOKING-- This week wasn't nearly as noisy as last week.

Kettering will play Woking today at Woking's home ground, the Kingfield Sport Ground, in the side's first action in a week. All Conference teams had the week off, with no midweek match.

Kettering last played last Saturday, when it defeated Scarborough, 2-0, at Rockingham Road in Kettering. Woking is coming off of a 2-1 road loss to Burton Albion.

Both teams have a win and two losses early in the season, although Woking gets the edge with an even goal differential, one better than the Poppies' -1 difference.

Woking has been one of the more exciting clubs to watch in the Conference in this early season. They rank among the league's leaders with seven goals already, but they also are among the league's worst defensively with a matching seven allowed.

The big man to watch is former Yeovil and Rushden star striker Warren Patmore. Patmore has four goals already in just three matches, which is twice as many as all of the Poppies together have scored as a team in the same period.

Other Conference Matches

Match of the Day Doncaster at Stevenage-- This one was easy. The schedule has nicely conspired to give us a matchup of the only two undefeated, un-tied sides in the Conference. The winner's manager probably gets the first Manager of the Month award for the season. The loser gets nothing, of course. For all their record similarities, these teams are coming from two different directions. The Rovers of Doncaster were picked to be a domiannt team this year, and they are proving so every match. They haven't been involved in a close one yet. Stevenage has been likewise dominating ont he pitch, but they haven't been rolling over opponents with their offense, scoring just four goals in their three wins. But Stevenage gets this one at home. Winner takes the spoils.

Also today:

Dag & Red at Barnet
Farnborough at Chester
Margate at Leigh
Hereford at Morecambe
Burton Albion at Northwich
Forest Green at Scarborough
Halifax at Southport
Nuneaton Borough at Telford
Kettering at Woking
Gravesend at Yeovil

[Chief Rum]

August 31, 2002

London Times

Real Madrid Takes The Super Cup

MONACO-- Spanish First Division heavyweight and Champions Cup holder Real Madrid won the 2003 European Super Cup with a dominating 3-0 victory Friday over Dutch Premier Division side Feyenoord.

Forward Raul and French midfield star Zinedine Zidane got Real Madrid off to a strong start with a score each in the first 24 minutes of the match, held on a sunny afternoon in front of 10,995 at Stade Louis II.

Argentinian midfielder Santiago Hernan Solari sealed the deal with a goal in the 61st minute.

Feyenoord, who won the right to play for the Super Cup by winning the UEFA Cup last season, was never really in this match, with Real Madrid dominating the ballplay with its bevy of stars. The Spanish side had 14 shots, including eight on target, to the Dutch club's six and four, respectively.

Real Madrid's French defensive midfielder Claude Makélélé had to leave the match in the eighth minute with an injury, but it turned out to be minor.

[Chief Rum]

September 1, 2003

Northampton Chronicle & Echo

Poppies Win Going Away

WOKING-- The Poppies made a statement with their 3-1 victory over Woking yesterday--this offense is here to stay.

An aggressive offense saw the Poppies overcome the recent past, an early goal, and a hostile home crowd of Woking supporters to take a home a much needed confidence booster.

Scary striker Warren Patmore didn't make it easy, though. He has been exceptional early in the season, leading the Cardinals' strong attack with four goals in three matches. Just four minutes into this one, he was at it again. Forward Chris Sharpling set Patmore up with a fine cross after drawing attention with a run down the right wing. Patmore slipped in behind defenders Lee Howarth and Andy Dowie to get on the ball and put it past keeper Ian Bowling, who had almost no chance at it, for his fifth goal of the season.

The Poppies would not return the favor for a good while, as they pressed, but failed to break Cardinals' keeper Anthony Tucker. Even when they finally did, it was started by a broken freekick attempt by Woking, and went through a number of chances before coming through. In the 40th minute, Boardman blasted a long freekick into the box, but defender Danny Holyoak got to it and booted it forward to forward Carlin Itonga at the midline. Itonga almost lost it under pressure before giving it to backwards midfielder Davy Williamson. Williamson turned the ball down toward winger Wayne Duik on the left wing, but Duik misplayed the ball and almost let it skip out of bounds. Finally, Duik turned around and found Itonga and striker Ryan Trudgian leading their defenders toward the box. A sharp pass to Itonga in the center, was soon followed by a ditch off to Trudgian, who got both Boardman and Tucker to bite on a move to the left before burying a blast into the upper right corner of the net.

It remained tensely knotted at one until the 62nd minute. Once again, this one was started by a Woking freekick gone wrong. Cardinals midfielder Ian Hamilton misplayed a freekick short pass right onto Duik's foot and a clear pitch ahead. Duik immediately took off down the pitch, with Hamilton and the Woking defense desperately trying to catch him. Such was their attention to his end-to-end run that they failed to cover striker Chris Thompson charging into the box. Duik turned near the line and found him for an easy shot past Tucker and the go-ahead goal.

The Poppies had to hang on after that, as Woking was very consistent with pressure, especially with Patmore lurking. Woking would outshoot the Poppies 10-8 in this one.

In the 90th minute, the Cardinals were pressing for a score. Sharpling put a good run into the right corner before turning and blasting a fine crossing pass into the far end of the box. Dean Clark collected it and blasted it toward the left end of the net. Bowling had to make a brilliant save to knock it out left, and Holyoak then cleared it. The ensuing clearing, however, found the Cardinals out of position, and eventually Itonga was able to blast it into the upper right corner for his first score as a Poppy, and thus sealing a hard-fought victory.

The striker combination of Thompson and Trudgian, dubbed "TNT" by some of the local media and fans, each scored for the second match in a row. Itonga was playing for Shaun Murray, who was scratched from starting earlier in the day by a gash to his leg in training. The injury was not expected to impact Murray's availability beyond today's match.

Midfielder Michael Boyle-Ching, however, also suffered a cut to his leg, and it was far more serious. He will be out for a week. Kettering manager Matthew Kieta refused to be specific, but apparently there was an accident on the practice pitch involving a collision between Murray and Boyle-Chong, which resulted in the injuries. Boyle-Chong was not anticipated to play in the match.

[Chief Rum]

September 1, 2002

Northampton Chronicle & Echo

Nationwide Conference Wrap Up

Barnet 1, Dag & Red 0 Near-freezing temperatures and gale-like winds couldn't stop this match, held at Barnet's home ground in London. And the Daggers eventually failed to stop Barnet from reaching the net. Surprising scorer Craig Pope put one in in the 41st minute for the Bees, finally moving Barnet ahead after a half full of lost chances. Barnet handled Dag & Red, the preseason Conference favorite, pretty well, dominating possession. This was a critical match for both teams, with Barnet anxious to prove ts worth against a quality opponent, and Dag & Red trying to keep up with hot starts by Doncaster and Stevenage.

Chester 2, Farnborough 1 Last year, Irish striker Daryle Clare was a brilliant striker for eventual promotion-winner Boston United. Thus far with his new team, the Chester City Blues, though, Clare has been scoreless--up until Saturday, that is. The end of Clare's three-match scoring draught came in fine fashion, as he netted two goals back-to-back in the 67th and 68th. His offensive explosion broke a tense defensive battle and proves to be the difference for the hometown Blues.

Leigh RMI 1, Margate 0 It seems fitting that a brutal ugly match that featured no less than eight yellow cards, 30 fouls and a major injury should be decided by a penalty shot. Railway Men striker Ged Courtney, brought over from relegated Stalybridge, put a penalty shot past Gate keeper Phil Smith after the Gate's midfielder James Virgo tripped Ben Woods in the box in the 43rd minute. It proved to be the only score in the match. Surprisingly, no one was sent off, despite the rough play. The Railway Men did suffer a blow, though, when starting midfielder Phil Salt hurt his hamstring in the 30rd minute. It was later diagnosed as a torn hamstring, and he will miss at least two months.

Morecambe 2, Hereford 1 Young striker Danny Carlton is doing all he can to get on to the Shrimps' first team. He scored two goals to key a comeback in the second half of Morecambe's home match against the Bulls of Hereford Saturday. Carlton has now scored four goals in three matches, one of which wasn't even a start. Hereford had the advantage when their own striker put one in in the 45th minute, but they were undone by some rough play, as defensive midfielder Robert Sawyers was sent off with his second yellow card shortly after Grant's goal. The man disadvantage proved to be impossible to avoid with carlton playing so well.

Northwich 2, Burton Albion 1 Striker Johnny Allan is making the most of his personal relegation to the Conference. The former Division Three sider opened the scoring for the Vics with his fifth goal of the season in the 20th minute. Fellow striker David McNiven would then score his first goal in two years to put the Vics up 2-0 and coast to the victory. Brewers' striker Christian Moore scored his third goal of the season to get Burton within one, but it was too little, too late in a match played at Northwich.

Scarboroough 3, Forest Green 1 In the end, it was a reserve striker which finally got the Boro out of their offensive doldrums. Young Gary Cohen scored a hat in only the second start of his career to lead the Boro to victory over the Rovers in a home match at Scarborough. The three scores were the first by the side yet this season, which was held scoreless in its first three Conference matches. Vet Rovers striker Neil Grayson got Forest Green the early lead with a notch in the 20th minute, but they were unabl;e to hold onto it.

Southport 2, Halifax 0 It's becoming clearer and clearer that not only was Halifax undeserving of being a Division Three side, but perhaps the Conference is too much for them as well. The Port dominated the Shaymen, limiting their shots to just two, and rooting in Halifax's half of the pitch, in a match at Southport. Still, it remained just a one-goal match for most of full time. Midfielder Steve Soley scored a penalty in the 14th minute, after defender Alistair Asher backed into him in the box. It looked to be the only goal until the Port's reserve striker Paul Wheatcroft scored one in the 83rd minute.

Stevenage 3, Doncaster 0 Rovers who? The Boro showed they are for real in a home match between the only two undefeated, untied sides left in the Conference. Stevenage got an unlikely score from sweeper Jason Goodliffe, before striker Charlie MacDonald scored twice to put this one away by halftime. The match was actually must closer played than it seemed, as the Rovers nearly matched the Boro shot-for-shot (four to five shots on net), and the Boro spent as much time defending their own end as pressing, but it was the Boro that converted on their chances. With this one, Stevenage, who wasn't picked to do squat this season, has moved into a clear position atop the league table, and is the only undefeated, untied club left in the Conference.

Telford 2, Nuneatopn Borough 0 The Bucks dominated this match, held on their home pitch in Telford, holding Nuneaton to just two shots on goal for the match. The difference maker was Welsh striker Peter Smith, who scored both Telford goals for his third and fourth goals of the season. One of the goals was a penalty, which he was rewarded after Boro defender Jon Dyson tripped him up in the box while both were pursuing an errant pass.

Kettering 3, Woking 1 The Cardinals failed to capitalize on the fifth goal of the season by their exciting striker Warren Patmore, and lost a hard-fought offensive showdown with the Poppies on their own pitch in Woking. The two sides combined for 18 shots on net, but after Patmore's score in the fourth minute, the Cardinals couldn't solve Kettering keeper Ian Bowling. Newly acquired strikers Ryan Trudgian and Chris Thompson both scored to give the Poppies the lead, and then forward Carlin Itonga put int he game-clincher in the final minutes. Woking actually outshot Kettering 10-8.

Yeovil 1, Gravesend 1 The matchup of the Conference's best offense and best defense went more toward Yeovil's philosophy--but Gravesend & Northfleet got the important road draw, and almost came away with a victory. Backup forward Welshman Kevin Gall managed to put a floater in over the head of the Fleet's keeper Paul Wilkerson to tie it up as the final minutes dwindled in Saturday's match at Yeovil. The clutch Gall was a long time in coming, as the Glovers seemed to be the stronger team for much of the match, despite being downa goal. Gravesend's goal came early, on a forward Mark Bentley score in the 27th minute. Yeovil had to survive playing with a man disadvantage after Jimmy Aggrey was sent off shortly after Gall's goal with a tough tackle-turned-trip. They also faced down an open-pitch challenge and a couple corner kicks by the Fleet before holding on to the draw they had just earned.

INJURIES & BANS

While there were several players who left Conference action today for minor injuries, the only major injury was to Leigh midfielder Phil Salt, who tore a hamstring in the 30th minute of their match with Margate. Salt will likely be off the pitch until at least November.

Yeovil Town defender Jimmy Aggrey was sent off for a professional foul for tripping in the Glovers' draw with Gravesend & Northfleet, and Hereford's defensive midfielder Robert Sawyers acquired two yellows before being summarily booted from his side's loss to Morecambe. Both will miss at least the automatic one-match that accompanies any red cards.

[Chief Rum]

September 1, 2002

London Times

Champions Cup Groups, Fixtures Set

LONDON-- Four United Kingdom clubs discovered their destinations for the vaunted Champions League competition Saturday when the group stage was announced.

Arsenal will play in Group A, Manchester United in Group B, Liverpool in Group F and the Celtic of Scotland in Group H. None will have an easy road to the Champions League playoffs.

Arsenal may be in arguably the toughest grouping, where they are grouped with thw top two sides from France and Germany in Lens and FC Bayer, respectively.

Manchester United, who had to win through the last qualifying round to get in, will have to face off with Deportivo from Spain and Leverkusen of Germany, among others.

Liverpool has AEK Athens and Lyon from France, and they may end up with UEFA Cup holder and Dutch side Feyenoord, too--Feyenoord faces off with Lithuanian club Kaunus in a Super Cup delayed qualifying match on Wednesday to determine the last member of the group.

Celtic, which, like Man Utd, had to win their way into the competition, get no favors from the draw, with powerful top Italian side Juventus in their grouping, along with top Russian club Spartak Moscow and Norway's Rosenborg--which defeated Newcastle in two qualifying legs to get this far.

Outside of the groups holding British sides, the most oustanding appears to be Group E, which includes top Spanish side and defending Champions Cup holder Real Madrid, powerful Italian club Inter, and top notch PSV from the Dutch Premier Division.

All four British clubs will play their first matches on Thursday.

Arsenal's first match will be a road tilt with FC Bayern in Munchen, Germany. Manchester United gets Latvian side Skonto at home. Liverpool will host AEK Athens. And Celtic goes to Trondhiem to play Rosenborg.

Here are the groupings:

Group A-- Racing Club Len (France); Arsenal (England); FC Bayern München (Germany); SK Sturm Graz (Austria)

Group B-- Bayer 04 Leverkusen (Germany); R.C. Deportivo de la Coruña SAD (Spain); Manchester United (England); FK Skonto Riga (Latvia)

Group C-- AFC Ajax (Netherlands); Valencia C.F. SAD (Spain); Fenerbahçe SK (Turkey); FC Partizan Belgrade (Yugoslavia)

Group D-- AS Roma (Italy); Olympiakos Piraeus (Greece); Sporting Club de Portugal (Portugal); Lokomotiv Moscow (RUS)

Group E-- Real Madrid C.F. (Spain); PSV (Netherlands); Internazionale (Italy); Shakhtar Donetsk (Ukraine)

Group F-- Liverpool (England); Olympique Lyonnais (France); AEK Athens (Greece); Feyenoord (Netherlands) or FB Kaunus (Lithuania)

Group G-- Borussia Dortmund (Germany); Galatasaray SK (Turkey); F.C. Barcelona (Spain); Slovan Liberec (Czech Republic)

Group H-- Juventus (Italy); Spartak Moscow (Russia); Celtic (Scotland); Rosenborg BK (Norway)

[Chief Rum]

September 1, 2002

Northant Evening Telegraph

Conference Awards Announced

LONDON-- The Nationwide Conference announced the winners of the league's monthly awards for August, the first of the new season.

Woking striker Warren Patmore received the Player of the Month award, after scoring five goals and assisting on another in four matches. He received two Men of the Match in August.

Morecambe's striker Danny Carlton, 18, earned the Young Player of the Month award, with an explosive four goals in just two matches, one of which wasn't even a start.

In a surprising move, the Conference gave the Manager of the Month award to Barnet's Danny Mason. Barnet won three of its first four matches with shutout victories, but the Bees also were dominated by Doncaster, 3-0, in their loss.

Meanwhile, Doncaster's manager David Penney put up essentially the same record, but in more dominating fashion and his side defeated Barnet directly. And, of course, neither Penney nor Mason would have been expected to receive the award over Graham Westley, the manager of table-topping side Stevenage, the only undefeated, untied side in the league, and owner of a 3-0 defeat of closest rival Doncaster on Saturday.

"I think that's a shame," Kettering manager Matthew Kieta said. "Not to take away from Mason, but Westley deserved that award more than anyone I know."

Kieta's side was itself handily defeated by Stevenage in the teams' second matches of the season.

[Chief Rum]

September 1, 2002

Tommy Ridgely: "Welcome, Poppy Fans, to another edition of "Popping Off", the one and only local radio show dedicated to bringing you the news and highlights you want to hear about your favorite side, the Kettering Town Poppies!

Tonight we will review the Poppies' fantastic win over the Cardinals of Woking yesterday, including interviews. We will also have an update on the conditions of Shaun Murray and Michael Boyle-Chong after an accidental practice collision between the two in pre-match drills Saturday deprived the team of their services for the Woking match and maybe more. And, of course, we will field calls so, you, our callers can voice out your praise, or more likely, your frustration with the way the Poppies play the fine game of football.

But as always we have some news to report.

Yes, as expected the Conference did name its August awards today, but this is even bigger. What would be Kettering fans' biggest fear come true, even worse than relegation? That would, of course, be anything that might eliminate the Poppies from existence.

Well, share your prayers for the fans of Hereford, folks, because the Bulls' creditors have called out the wolves, and their fans may be realizing that same deep fear we all fear for our own favorite sides. After weeks of bankruptcy, the club has been forced to call in receivers, whom have taken over the club and are at this moment peering over mounds of financial statements and asset assessments, in order to come up with the cash to pay off their debt.

The exact details of the debt were not given out, and Chairman Graham Turner refused comment when approached about the bankruptcy today.

All transfer funds have reportedly been taken away from the club, and, as those of us who follow football know, it is often free reign on the players there, who are sold off at bargain basement prices to get the club back in the black.

I'm sure my listeners are not happy that this has befallen Hereford, but the fact of the matter is that this can help our Poppies in a couple ways.

First off, since financial health is unlikely to be achieved by the end of this year, it seems like a given that one of the three relegation spots for the Conference will have to be given to Hereford, which will probably not be able to meet the financial requirements to stay in the league, regardless of where they end up in the table. With one less relegation spot available, plenty of lower end sides, as the Poppies were once predicted to be, can breathe a little easier about their ability to remain in the league for at least one more season. Of course, given the sharp play on the pitch yesterday, I am certain many of are at this very moment scoffing at the notion we might be relegated. Well, remember, everyone, it's a long season, and two victories a season do not make.

The second reason, of course, is one which will have already occurred to you all. And that is, are the Poppies interested in acquiring any of Hereford's suddenly available talent? How about striker John Grant, who scored a hat trick in a match a couple weeks ago? Or young Danny Williams, with four assists in four matches? Or speedy Portuguese forward Albano Correia? Or fine young winger Paul Perry? Or will someone else step in and take them instead?

It should at the very least be a topic of debate as the season progresses. As of yet, we don't even know if Chairman Peter Mallinger has any plans to make any transfer funds available, or even if he has already. So anything to be said now can only be speculation. But I certainly hope that if there is someone good there to be had--and it seems likely there is--that they take them before the rest of the Conference comes in and tears them apart.

And, now, to our next bit of news...the fraud that is the Conference Manager of the Month award...

[Chief Rum]

September 5, 2002

London Times

Feyenoord Beats Kaunus To Champions Spot

KAUNUS, Lithuania-- Feyenoord of the Dutch Premier Division defeated Lithuanian side FB Kaunus, 2-0, on its home pitch, the Darius ir Gireno sc, Wednesday tyo advance to the Champions League group stage.

Feyenoord, who holds the UEFA Cup from the 2002-03 season, had to delay the match when the Champions League qualifying round conflicted with last week's Super Cup, the annual early seaosn match up between the Champions Cup and UEFA Cup holders.

The victory gave Feyenoord an overall 5-0 lead after two legs. The Dutch side will now be a part of Group F int he Champions League group stage, which, among others, contains top English side Liverpool.

The group stage opens up tonight for most clubs.

[Chief Rum]

September 5, 2002

Northampton Chronicle & Echo

Asombamg Hurt In Training

KETTERING-- Backup striker Victor Asombamg hurt his toe practicing defensive maneuvers in training Wednesday. The stubbed toe will likely put him down for a week, and force him to be unaavailable for next Tuesday's match with Forest Green, and even possibly the Doncaster match on September 14.

The injury is not considered serious and should not limit Asombamg at all once he is healed, trainer Peter Lake said.

In other injury news, midfielder Shaun Murray seems to be completely healed from his minor collision with fellow midfielder Michael Boyle-Chong in prematch drills Saturday. Murray and Boyle-Chong both suffered leg gashes int he accidental collision, although Boyle-Chong got the worst of it. The collision made both unavailable for Saturday's win over Woking, and might cost Boyle-Chong any shot at playing against Forest Green as well.

[Chief Rum]

Friday, September 6, 2002

London Times

Arsenal Falls To Bayern In Champions League

MÜNCHEN, Germany-- Arsenal fell, 2-1, to powerful German club FC Bayern in a tough opener for Champions League Group Stage A.

Arsenal received a score from star Dutch striker Dennis Bergkamp, but two goals by top veteran midfielder Mehmet Scholl proved to be enough to beat the English side in a tight match. Scholl's second goal didn't break the tie until the 76th minute had gone by in Münchner Olympiastadion, FC Bayern's home ground.

In other Champions League action, Manchester United blasted Latvian side Skonto, 3-0, at Old Trafford in Manchester to open Group Stage B. Dutch striker Ruud van Nistlerooy scored in the 11th minute to get the scoring going, and Man Utd put a frightening 20 shots on goal, compared to just one by Skonto. Paul Scholes and Daniel Nardello also both scored for Manchester United.

Liverpool was similarly strong at Anfield in Liverpool, defeating AEK Athens, 3-0, even without top scorer and striker Michael Owen, who tore a groin muscle in training Wednesday and will miss about a month. Liverpool had its three goals by the 16th minute, two of which were scored by striker Emile Heskey, whose time has been cut short by the presence of Owen and whom will likely see more pitch time.

Scotland's Celtic got a measure of revenge for United Kingdom football fans when they slammed Norwegian side Rosenborg, 3-0, in Trondheim, Norway. Rosenborg eliminated top English side Newcastle from Champions League contention in the qualifiers last week. Dominant Swedish striker Henrik Larsson got the ball rolling against his fellow Scandinavian opponents with a goal in the 22nd minute. Celtic then added two more via Alan Thompson penalty shots, as Rosenborg resorted to questionable moves to try and limit Celtic's runs into the box.

The Phase 1 Group Stage now underway will continue until mid-November, when the top two sides in each grouping will move onto the Phase 2 Group Stage.

Football Notes

Liverpool's reserve defensive midfielder John Welsh, 18, told media Thursday after the match that he was disappointed with his current pay.

Welsh, a well-regarded up-and-coming prospect who has yet to see any time with the first team, currently makes £24,000 per year, but the contract runs out on January 10, before the current Premier League fixture even wraps up.

"I just feel I am worth more than this," Welsh said. "I will need to have a significant raise if Mr. [Gérard] Houllier expects me to remain at Anfield."

Houllier refused to comment on Welsh after the match, prefering to speak about Liverpool's win over AEK Athens in the Champions League group stage opener.

[Chief Rum]

Sunday, September 8, 2002

London Times

Real Madrid Brings On Deco

MADRID, Spain-- World reknowned club power Real Madrid added to its legacy some more with a move which will likely send shockwaves throughout La Liga and in football around the world.

On Saturday, the club arranged for the £9 millon transfer of stellar playmaker-midfielder Deco from Portuguese club Porto. Deco is regarded as one of the most creative players on and off the ball in the world.

Deco, 25, is currently recuperating from a torn groin muscle suffered in late July, but is expected to be back by the end of the month.

Deco scored 13 goals for Porto in the Superleague last season, although he is much more known for creating the goals of others. He joins midfield and forward line which are already stocked with stars like Raul, Renaldo, Figo and Zidane.

[DataKing]

Fantastic stuff Chief. I am enjoying this thoroughly. I really like the addition of news from the Champions League and the like. It reminds us that the Kettering dynasty does not exist within a vacuum, but there is other football going on in the world as well.

I do have a question for you. I realize it's early in the season yet, and CM4 has lost its printing capabilities, but do you have any intentions of including the conference table, once per month or so? With 22 (right?) sides in the Nationwide, I think it might help us to follow along and see how our beloved Poppies are doing in the standings.

Table or not, this is excellent stuff Chief. A great read. Thanks.

[Chief Rum]

Oh, yes, DataKing, I do plan on including tables. In fact, I was already thinking about setting up the first one for after the Doncaster match (September 14). I wanted to get a little into the season, so the table would have some meaning at least, and I figure six matches ought to do the trick.

BTW, I will also be covering the English national team and the UEFA Cup, in addition to the Champions League. I am still deciding how far to take information about the EPL and the sub-divisions, although I am leaning to doing regular updates of sorts on the goings on in at least the top two leagues as well. I am a little more iffy on doing D2 and D3 info right now, as well as the other UK leagues (although Scotland First might be an exception). But I am playing it by ear on those.

And, of course, if something major in the football world happens, I plan on telling you all about it in some form or another. :)

Thanks for the kind words, and keep reading.

Chief Rum

[Chief Rum]

Tuesday, September 10, 2002

Northampton Chronicle & Echo

Match Day

FOREST GREEN-- It seems like the entire English football world take the last week and change off to start up the Champions League.

Well, now that the top European club competition is under way, it's time for the rest of the teams to get back to business--which for Kettering means a visit to The Lawn, home ground of the Forest Green Rovers.

The entire Conference is back in action tonight after not playing since August 31.

Kettering manager Matthew Kieta said he expects no hangover from the long layover.

"That's why we train as hard as we do," Kieta said Monday. "There are odd breaks like this throughout the schedule, but we're professionals. We just deal with it and move on."

The two sides meeting tonight at 7:30 at the Lawn seem to be otherwise moving in opposite directions. Forest Green opened the season with an impressive victory shutout victory over one of the preseason favorites in Morecambe, but have since lost three in a row--while Morecambe has itself been proving itself to be more of an underachiever than a contender.

Meanwhile, the Poppies appear to be in the midst of a turnaround after losing the first two matches of the season. They have won the two matches since, including an impressive road match against Woking in their last visit to the pitch. Nonetheless, road matches are never easy at any level of English football.

Midfielder Shaun Murray, who missed the Woking match with a gashed leg, is healthy and available tonight. Backup midfielder Michale Boyle-Chong, though, is still out with a similar injury, and backup striker Victor Asombamg is also unavailable, due to a stubbed toe suffered in tarining last week.

Other Conference Matches

Match of the Night: Stevenage at Dag & Red-- A month ago, you might have laughed at a Stevenage visit to Victoria Road as being a highlight match of the fixture. Well, that's why they play them out. Stevenage is currently sitting atop the Conference table all by its lonesome, after handing the only other undefeated, untied side, Doncaster, a nasty defeat on August 31. Stevenage has won all four of its matches so far, and most in impressive fashion. Meanwhile, preseason favorite Dag & Red, while playing solid ball, has proven more vulnerable, losing tight one-goal matches to Barnet and Leigh RMI in its two road tilts. One team will be seeking to further prove its skills and move further ahead of the pack, while the other will be trying to reassert itself as the top contender for promotion.

Also tonight:

Yeovil at Burton Albion
Scarborough at Doncaster
Telford at Farnborough
Kettering at Forest Green
Southport at Gravesend
Chester at Halifax
Barnet at Hereford
Morecambe at Margate
Woking at Northwich
Leigh RMI at Nuneaton Borough

[Chief Rum]

September 10, 2002

Tommy Ridgely: Welcome, Poppy fans, to a dry cool evening of football here at the Lawn in Forest Green. Your Poppies of Kettering will try to keep up the run of good form they have displayed in their previous matches by going against the Forest Green Rovers tonight.

The Poppies have seemingly rebounded from a bad start to the season by winning two matches in a row, including a well-played road win over the Woking Cardinals on August 31, smacking them 3-1.

The difference seems to be the TNT crew that manager Matthew Kieta brought in on loan to score for this bunch. I'm speaking of new strikers Chris Thompson and Ryan Trudgian, who each have two goals int he two matches they have played. Thompson from Grimsby Town has amazed with his nose for the net, and Trudgian from Plymouth has been one hard worker, playing tall in the box.

But a road match is never an easy thing in the Conference, so this should be another fight for the Poppies. The Rovers have lost three in a row, but they have looked good in spots, and can be very dangerous. The man to keep an eye on? Nigerian striker Kayode Odejayi! He's fast and he can finish, and in any league that makes him lethal. He has two goals in the first four games, including the difference in Forest Green's only win, a 1-0 count over Morecambe in the Conference season opener last month.

Ian Bowling gets another start in the net tonight. Lee Howarth gets the night off--nothing to worry, folks, just time for him to sit, says Mr. Kieta--so Craig Norman is in the middle of a three-centreback line. He is flanked by Martin Matthews, in his first action of the season, and Brett Solkhon, who has been so impressive early on here. Scott Goodwin returns on the left wing after sitting out the Woking match, and Wayne Diuk moves to the right, as Niall Inman will have the night off as well. Davy Williamson gets the nod in the middle, where he will paired with first time starter Mark Cartlidge. At the critical forward midfield spot, the versatile Shaun Murray returns to the pitch. He missed the Woking match after a minor training injury resulted in a cut to his leg. It is all healed, though. Murray's return allows Mr. Kieta to rest Trudgian, so he does. Congo-man Carlin Itonga will start up front, where he is paired with the exciting Thompson.

That is your starting lineup, Poppy fans, and the action is about to begin, so let's get to it...

14th minute

...Matthew Russell has it under pressure and it moves back to Langan across the midline...but Langan misplays it and it goes by! And Itonga is on it! He's got it and is racing down the wing! Langan on his heels...Itonga turns and fires a great pass to Murray in the middle...Wow, Murray is open...he's charging into the box. Jones and Russell closing...To the left, and he fires! GOOOOAAALLLLLLLLL! Murray with the vicious high kick! It blasts past Steve Perrin for the first goal of the game! Russell and Jones almost closed him down, but Murray had the angel, and he just shot it right over Perrin and into the top of the net! 1-0, Poppies! On Murray's first goal of the season...

27th minute

...Duik with a short toss in to Williamson...Williamson moves it up to Thompson...Thompson being crowded near the midline...he sends it forward...OH! Itonga has a step! And Thompson found Itonga! It's just Itonga and Perrin...Itonga into the box...kicked high...GOOOOOAAAAAALLLLLLL! The Poppies score again, on a miserable defensive breakdown by the Rovers! Itonga simply slipped in behind Russell and Jones, and he had the whole pitch in front of him! A brilliant pass by Thompson to find him, too! As for Perrin, he just misplayed it...he guarded the open night to the left, but left just enough near corner for Itonga to hit it high...And Itonga has scored his first goal ever as a Poppy...

35th minute

...Langan with the high toss in to Russell...OH! But Murray squeezes in and beats him in the air! He moves it up far to Itonga! Itonga has the step on Jones again! He's been beating him all day. He centers it to Thomspon...to Willaimson...nice tackle Foster...but it's to Murray and he's into the box...shoots...a brilliant save by Perrin! The ball bounds to the goal line...but Itonga's going to get to it first! He fires...into the side netting! No goal! It would have been tough from that angle anyway....back to the save...an absolutely brilliant one by Perrin...he moves out on Murray, but Murray gets the shoit off before he can close...he stays in front solid and knocks the ball off to the side...Of course, Itonga almost caught him watching his own handiwork...Rovers with the goalkick...

38th minute

...Russell with the freekick from his own pitch...he lofts a long one up there, this will fall close to the box...Solkhon with the nice header back into the middle of the pitch...Jones reaches it before Norman...sends a sharp pass down toward the left line...but Duik is there and he lifts it forward into the Rovers' side of the pitch...Thompson and Itonnga are racing to the ball, with company...but Thomspon gets there, and he's into the box...the shot...GOOOOOOAAAAALLLLLL! Thompson with the floater over a flailing Perrin, who came forward a little too far! The Poppies now hold a commanding 3-0 lead! Once again, Perrin is burned by his own defense...Russell was with Thompson the whole way until he fell off near the end. If he stays on him, that's not an easy shot for Thompson...as it was, Perrin was Poppy-fodder...

45th minute

...McLaughlin with a long toss toward the box...Grayson and Norman jump...and Norman with the nice header clear out...well, that's clear into Rover territory...and again! Thompson is on it! Foster is on his heels...but itonga is free int he box...Thompson blasts the pass...Itonga...OH! Off Perrin...race to the ball...no, Perrin has it. So close for the striker from the Congo! Thompson put that cross right on Itonga's foot, but Perrin was ready for the rebound, sending it off left...then he beat Itonga to it to stop the play...So close...the Poppies almost went into the half up four...

Halftime

...Kettering is blasting Forest Green! They have the 3-0 lead on the Rovers, with big goals by Murray and Itonga, their first of the season. And, Thompson, oh Thompson! If this is what we can expect for him, I'll pay his transfer fees myself, I think! He scores his third goal of his young young Poppy career, in less than three matches...The Poppies' defense is spot on right now...they haven't let the Rovers even get a shot off on Bowling, but Steve Perrin is breaking a sweat on the other side, defending against eight shots...

63rd minute

...Jenkins collects the ball near the left wing line and sends a long shot into the action...Grayson and Norman up with it...Grayson gets it, but he sends it to Foster...but Matthews intercepts it and blasts it right!....at McLoughlin! The kick! Bowling leaps out and bats it away left! Solkhon to it first, and he sends it away long...Nice play by Matthews, but what on Earth was he thinking to hit it cross like that...Good thing, Bowling was awake...

81st minute

...Langan to Russell on the toss...but Murray gets int he way and it's to Goodwin...he sends it forward long...Thompson might have it in the circle...no, it bounds past him...a misplay by Thompson...Jenkins reaches it...he turns...and he sends it long toward the box...Grayson and Norman again...Grayson with the header...OH! A nice save by Bowling, as he turns it away for the corner...No, it's an offside! Grayson was too far foward after all...Nice save by Bowling all the same...

Full Time

...What can I say, everyone? If you have been paying attentiuon you know what has happened. The Poppies appear to be ona roll and playing as fine a game of football as I have yet sene from them in recent seasons. Well played, Poppies, as Kettering takes the big road match 3-0 over Forest Green...

[Chief Rum]

September 11, 2002

Northampton Chronicle & Echo

Mallinger Praises Club After Win

FOREST GREEN-- Kettering chairman Peter Mallinger said he was very pleased with the club's performance after a 3-0 win over Forest Green Tuesday night.

"The guys are playing very well right now. Mr. Kieta really seems to have them playing in good form," Mallinger said at the Lawn, Forest Green's home ground. Mallinger tries to attend as many road games with the club as possible.

Mallinger has for the most part kept his silence since he hired the heretofore unknown Matthew Kieta as the new manager of the Kettering Town Poppies. He has weathered the complaints from fans and media when Kieta did little to improve the team from outside, and he stayed silent throughout the Poppies' early troubles in the Conference season.

Now that Kieta seems to have turned the side around, though, Mallinger is ready to support his choice.

"I think we can safely put that start behind us right now, and move on to a fruitful Conference season," Mallinger said. "I have never had a doubt that Mr. Kieta was the right choice for the job, but it's always nice when your convictions proive true."

With the 3-0 win over Forest Green, the Poppies moved into a tie for sixth place with Yeovil Town and Dag & Red, with nine points. The Poppies have won three in a row, including two straight road matches over the Rovers and Woking.

Kieta was more guarded in his enthusiasm.

"The guys did play well tonight, but we're just five matches into the fixture," Kieta said. "There's a lot of season left to go. I'm sure we're going to have bad stretches, too, and I would prefer to hold judgement until the end of the season. But I am happy that the recent play has pleased Mr. Mallinger and the fans."

The Poppies blitzed the Rovers Tuesday night, getting three goals before the first half was up and riding the lead to an easy victory in the second half.

Midfielder Shaun Murray, returning to the lineup after missing the Woking match with a minor injury, got the ball rolling when he knocked in a sharp left-footed shot in the 14th minute. He was set up beautifully by striker Carlin Itonga, who freed up room for the shot with a wing-spanning pitch run.

It was not long before the Poppies were knocking on the door again. In the 27th minute, striker Chris Thompson laid forward a beautiful pass to a streaking Itonga, who had slipped behind the defense as the pass was lofted. Itonga took it into the box and put the shot into the upper right corner of the net, leaving Rovers' keeper Steve Perrin to stare at it.

Then in the 38th minute, winger Wayne Duik lifted a long pass forward into Rovers territory, and Thompson just flat out beat the defense to it. Perrin tried to come forward, but Thompson lofted it over his head for a floating score and a commanding 3-0 lead.

The Poppies outshot the Rovers 8-0 in the first half, although the game-ending tally was 8-4. Kettering went into a defensive mode in the second half and just held onto their lead.

Defender Brett Solkhon, in particular, was dominating in the Poppies' own end and figured in several key defensive plays. It was his header which would eventually set up the third goal. His performance was so strong in fact that he was awarded the Man of the Match, over both Thompson and Itonga, who had a goal and an assist each.

Not all was good news for the Poppies, though. Shortly after the match, Kieta revealed that Thompson had picked up a knock, and hurt his neck.

"It's just one of those things," Kieta said. "A header gone awry. [Trainer] Peter [Lake] says he will be fine with some rest for a couple weeks, but he's not going to be available for matches during that time."

Thompson, the Poppies leading goal scorer with three so far, will likely be very missed with a key home match against table-topping Doncaster coming up this Saturday.

[Chief Rum]

September 11, 2002

Northampton Chronicle & Echo

Nationwide Conference Wrap Up

Burton Albion 1, Yeovil 1 Yeovil pressed hard against the Brewers of Burton, but in the end they fell just short of what could have been a key Conference road victory. Striker Adam Stansfield scored his fourth goal of the season in the 10th minute, and Yeovil kept Burton off the net for much of the rest of the match to try and make it stand up. Unfortunately for the Glovers, forward Andy Ducros finally managed to get in close in the 67th minute, and he scored it to tie it up. Also, longtime Yeovil midfield starter Nick Crittenden suffered a serious calf strain near the end of the match that will likely put him down for the rest of the month.

Dag & Red 3, Stevenage 1 They're human after all. The Boro received a shock when the Daggers pushed two across in the dwindling injury time at the end of their match at Dagenham Tuesday. Striker Steve West scored his second goal of the game and the tie-breaker just seconds into extra injury time after the 90th minute. A minute and change later, midfielder/striker Danny Shipp scored his third goal of the season, knocking in a long shot that seemed to catch Stevenage keeper Lionel perez by surprise. Both of the late goals actually hit Perez and were either misplayed or rebounded into the net. The Daggers showed some resolve, playing the table-topping Boro at home, as they fell behind 1-0 on a Justin Richards score early int he second half after a tight, defensive first half. West tied it up with his first goal int he 70th minute. Only eight total official shots were taken in the match. Players for Dag & Red, the preseason favorite to achieve promotion, said that the match was a statement game, what with surprising Stevenage being the only remaining undefeated untied side in the Conference.

Doncaster 1, Scarborough 0 The Rovers dominated the Boro of Scarborough defensively, limiting them to just two shots for the match Tuesday in Doncaster. Much of the match was played in front of Scarborough's goal, although Doncaster finished with just seven shots on the goal itself. It was almost for naught until the 54th minute, when Scottish forward Jamie Peterson scored his second goal of the season. It proved to be the difference, as the Rovers used the victory to vault back into a tie with Stevenage atop the Conference table.

Farnborough 1, Telford 0 It's maddening to play solid defense all match, only to fall in the final minutes. But then, with as many shots as the Boro peppered the Bucks' net with shots, it seems fitting they should finally manage to get the win, as they certainly earned it. St. Lucian striker Ken Charlery pushed across his third goal of the season in the 89th minute of the match, held on a gusty cold night in Farnborough. The Boro had nine shots to the Bucks' two, and neither of the Bucks' shots were even on target.

Kettering 3, Forest green 0 Kettering continued its good run of form of late by pasting the sad Rovers of Forest Green on their own pitch. The Poppies scored three goals by halftime and coasted to the victory, their third in a row. The Rovers, meanwhile, have now lost four matches in a row. The first two goals were scored by well-respected midfielder Shaun Murray and Arsenal import forward Carlin Itonga, before the noted loan striker Chris Thompson finished things off with his third goal in three matches. The Poppies did get some bad news when Thompson suffered a neck sprain which will likely remove him from matches for at least two weeks.

Gravesend 0, Southport 0 Two matches ago, the Fleet were as strong an offensive side as any in the Conference. But their performances of late are shedding doubt about that. After scoring nine goals in their first three matches, they have now scored just one in two matches, including getting shutout by Southport's keeper Steve Dickinson in Northfleet. The Fleet got seven shots off, including four on net, but failed to solve the keeper and settled for the scoreless draw.

Chester 3, Halifax 1 Exciting irish striker Daryle Clare is quickly reminding everyone of what an exciting goalscorer he proved to be with the since-promoted Boston United last season. He scored two goals to lead the Blues to a critical road victory over the Shaymen of Halifax Tuesday night. It is Clare's second straight two-goal match. Halifax moved a little closer in the 79th minute when reserve striker Ian Fitzpatrick scored his first goal of the season on a penalty kick, but reserve midfielder Ben davies iced the win for the Blues with his first goal of the season in the dwindling minutes of the match.

Hereford 1, Barnet 1 The Bulls showed they weren't going to let bankruptcy or Bees get in the way of a key match. They played tough Barnet to a standstill at home Tuesday night, and almost came away with the victory, just two days after it was reported they had been placed in receivership. Welsh midfielder Paul parry, perhaps trying out for other clubs, scored his first goal of the season to put Hereford up in the 30th minute. Unfortunately, the Bees kept pressign and finally got the equaliser when reserve striker Toby Oshitola scored int he 76th minute.

Margate 2, Morecambe 1 The Gate wasted little time getting a lead in this one. Striker Phil Collins scored his fourth goal of the season in just the fourth minute, and his frontline partner, French striker Jean-Michel Sigere, scored his first goal of the season just two minutes later to give Margate a lead they would never relinquish. They didn't score the rest of the match, but ti certainly wasn't for lack of trying, as the Gate piled up 12 shots to the Shrimps' five. Morecambe did move within one in the 73rd minute when striker Robbie Talbot scored his second of the season, but it was too little, too late.

Northwich 0, Woking 0 Neither side could get much offense going in a tight defensive match at Northwich Tuesday night. Only nine shots total were taken in the match, and both defenses proved up to the challenge, despite the fact that seven of the shots were on target. The Vics' keeper Ben Connett was particularly spectacular, saving five shots on net to preserve the shutout and the home draw.

Nuneaton 4, Leigh 1 Nuneaton did all the scoring tonight, even going so far as to score for Leigh when Leigh itself couldn't solve the Boro's defense. Scottish defender Paul Brown's accidental own goal in the sixth minute actually gave the Railway Men the early lead, but when a side gets just one off-net shot in an entire match, good things are not likely to happen to them. Nuneaton, in a strange display of offensive explosion--they came into the match with just two goals in their first four matches--blitzed Leigh's defense and scored four goals on ten shots. they were led by forward Mark Quayle, who had two tallies, including the early game-equaliser. Quayle had been held scoreless on the season coming into this match, so it is a good thing for the Boro that the Telford import who did so well last season has finalyl shaken the doldrums he found himself in. The other goals in the Nuneaton home match were scored by striker Carl Alford and midfielder Mickey Brown.

INJURIES & BANS

Burton midfielder Aaron Webster was sent off with an injury early in the Yeovil-Burton macth Tuesday night, straining a chest muscle that will keep him out for a week. A much more serious injury, though, happened later in the same match, when Yeovil forward Nick Crittenden suffered a calf strain in the 90th minute. Crittenden will miss three weeks.

Kettering striker Chris Thompson also strained his neck during the Forest Green-Kettering match, although he continued to play. The injury was not announced until after the match was complete. Thompson is expected to miss about two weeks with the injury.

The boys were good last night. Or the officials were in good moods. No red cards were handed out last night.

[Chief Rum]

Wednesday, September 11, 2002

London Times

English League Cup Begins Play Tonight

LONDON-- All across England, nearly every club higher than the Conference and lower than the Premier will be in action today, all with one goal in mind: to advance to the second round of English League Cup.

One of four open cup competitions given throughout the year here in England, the English League Cup is the earliest, and will eventually give every side above the Conference a chance to win it.

It's a winner-take-all competition in the early rounds, which currently includes every side except for Third Division Boston United, which lost a preliminary match in August to fellow Third Division side Bristol, and has thus already been eliminated. Premier League clubs get byes from the early rounds.

The draws are wide open, as is home field advantage, so a club may find it can be playing just about anywhere in England and facing an opponent as low as Third Division runt Cambridge or as high as Division One table topping Derby County.

No less than 35 matches will be played tonight. Here are the top matches in the draw:

Wolverhampton Wolves (15th in D1) at Brighton and Hove Albion (9th in D1)
Millwall (13 in D1) at Stoke City (17th in D1)
Wimbledon (14th in D1) at Walsall (21st in D1)
Wrexham (2nd in D2) at Leicester City (7th in D1)
Reading (19th in D1) at Plymouth Argyle (11th in D2)
Crewe Alexandre (4th in D2) at Preston North End (20th in D1)
Portsmouth (22nd in D1) at Wigan Athletic (3rd in D2)

Of course, there are also not-so-great matchups. The award for "Unofficial Bye In The First Round" goes to Division One Crystal Palace, tied with Derby for the table lead. Tonight, they get the enviable pleasure of hosting Division Three Rochdale--the second worst side in the lowest division. It could get ugly.

[SunDancer]

Chief,
Will this dynasty be lost when EP4 comes out? Also, how many leagues are in the background? Can you give more info on scouting missions and that. Always curious to see where you sent out the scouts and what they are seeking.

[Chief Rum]

No, this will remain as is. EP4 is save-compatible, according to the fine folks at SIGames.

28 total divisions, not sure how many leagues (8 or9 or so).

I can't tell you about what my scouts are doing because that's something the average English fan wouldn't know about. You can assume like most fans they are out looking for talent. :)

CR

[Chief Rum]

Thursday, September 12, 2002

London Times

Seven Division One Sides Fall In English League Cup First Round

LONDON-- There are few things big club fans hate more than being eliminated from cup competitions by smaller clubs.

So this year's English League Cup First Round will not be a fond memory for fans of Watford, Reading, Bradford Coty and Portsmouth. All four Division One clubs lost to smaller clubs yesterday.

Counting three more Division One clubs--the Wolves, Stoke City, and Walsall--which lost in matches featuring two D-1 sides, seven total clubs from the highest English league in action lost their matches yesterday, along with 28 other English clubs.

The winners of the Wednesday's 35 matches will move on to the second round, in which they will either play each other or an English Premier club. The EPL first joins the competition in the later round.

The second round will be played on October 2 at various grounds across the nation.

The top matchup Wednesday was one of three Division One meetings. The Wolves of Wolverhampton fell in a close match to Burton & Albion, 2-1. Milwall overcame Stoke City's home crowd to win a high-scoring 3-2 affair, and Wimbledon likewise took a road match from Walsall, winning on penalties in a 1-1 match that may have been the most exciting of the day.

Few remember if you win in the first round, though--at least not if you're a Division One side. And they never forget if you lose.

Watford was upset on penalty kicks by Division Two Colchester City. The home team won the match on kicks after a scoreless 0-0 full time.

Bradford City, currently fifth in Division One, may have eben the upset of the day. Division Two Oldhman Athletic, which is on the verge of a relegation slot, stunned the bigger club at home, shutting them out 2-0.

Division Two Plymouth Argyle defeated Division One Reading at home, 3-2, as did Division Two Wigan Athletic over Division Portsmouth. The latter wasn't much of an upset, however--Portsmouth is dead last in Division One, and Wigan is third in Division Two.

There were a handful of Division One teams that squeaked into the second round with a scare.

Division Three Wrexham nearly had the upset of the day when they went into Leicester City, one of the best sides in Division One, and forced them to extra time. Unfortunately, they fell short on penalty kicks in the 2-2 match.

Division Sheffield Wednesday required extra time to defeat Division Three Macclesfield, 3-2, on the road, and Preston North End needed similar measures to top Division Two side Alexandra Crewe, a club they might be facing in Division One next season, in a 2-1 match.

Even table-topping Derby County had its problems with visiting Division Two side Cheltenham Town. The match went to extra time before Derby scored two goals to seal it.

Fellow Division One leader Crystal Palace coasted to an easy 3-0 home victory over Division Three Rochdale, table-wise the worst ranked side in the entire field.

[Chief Rum]

Friday, September 13, 2002

Northampton Chronicle & Echo

Did We Jump The Gun?

By Mallory Walken

Are columnists human?

Judging by some of the fan mail I have received since I became the football columnist here at the NC&E, it would appear there's a fair lot of you who have your doubts.

Well, if it is human to err, then it may be high time for me to allow that I am indeed human--and I may have erred.

The Poppies of Kettering Town up the road have ever been a difficult side to root for. They have a fine ground and a devoted fan base in the township. They have had their share of success on their own level.

And yet they always seem to fall short. And things have been getting much nastier in recent seasons, with many of the townsfolk openly hostile to chairman Peter Mallinger, maligned now for his frugality whereas once he was regarded as the savior of a club drowning in debt. The crowds have been dwindling and the Poppies were actually relegated from the Conference in 2001, the first ime that had happened since 1972.

The Poppies did indeed return to the pinnacle of semi-rpo football this season, but right from the start, their decisions appeared odd. The firing of Carl Shutt, who led the team to the Southern League championship last season both on and off the pitch. The hiring of virtual unknown Matthew Kieta to replace him as manager. The dearth of any signings of note whatsoever throughout the preseason fixture, despite a readily-acknowledged lack of talent on the roster and in the staff room.

It was easy to leap on the bandwagon, to point out the flaws. It was more obvious than ever that this side was heading nowhere but back to the lower leagues. The first two Conference matches, featuring absolutely no Kettering offense in two losses, seemed only to confirm the facts at hand.

And then something happened. Kieta awoke. Mallinger's purse strings loosened. The club started making moves that made sense.

They signed a full staff, and brought in three exciting offensive players on loan in Chris Thompson, Ryan Trudgian and Andy Dowie. They switched up tactics and are playing a much more attractive pressing game. And they are winning now. Tuesday's 3-0 road victory over the Rovers of Forest Green was Kettering's third in ar ow, and don't look now, but five matches in and the Poppies are sitting just a shade outside a promotion slot.

That's right, folks--promotion.

Do I think they will keep it up? No. They still have some talent and depth issues in the midfield and upfront, and it will be a wonder if veteran players like Lee Howarth and Ian Bowling can hold up against the rigors of an entire season. Thompson is hurt now, even as we speak. And the sides they have most recently defeated aren't exactly lighting the Conference afire.

But the point is that a week or two ago, this side looked like it had already mailed in for relegation. The turnaround has been sharp and appalling, as many of you have noted in your kind letters to me.

So I'm going to take a different tack: optimism. That's right, I think this side will not only avoid relegation, but even stay safely in the middle of the table at least. They might even make a run at the playoffs, although that would indeed be jumping the gun.

Until the Poppies finally reach the League, their past of failure will never be forgotten. But at least there is life here again.

[SunDancer]

Chief,
I am about to launch my own dyansty in the Welsh Premier League. Just wanted to know if I could borrow your format of dynasty-writing.

[Chief Rum]

Hey, do what you want. Just be sure to give credit where credit is due. ;)

I played the Welsh Premier League in my old CM01/02 dynasty, first playing with Llanelli and then Cwmbran Town. It can be a fun league, although I much prefer to stay in the English leagues (that dynasty started with me in Stalybridge in the Conference, before I was summarily sacked...:( ).

CR

[Chief Rum]

Saturday, September 14, 2002

Northampton Chronicle & Echo

Match Day

KETTERING-- It's no doubt that many bigger matches will come Kettering's way as the season progresses. But it seems clear that, given the Poppies' recent return to the Conference--tosay's match may be the most critical match the side has played in two years.

Today, the Rovers of Doncaster come a-calling on the Poppies, and with them an interesting divserion: which is better, the talented team near the top of the table, or the hot team with two easy road victories on its fixture?

The Rovers came into the season as one of the favorites to contend for promotion from the Conference this season, and they haven't disappointed. They have won four of their five matches, and three of them by more than one goal. They have some of the best numbers on both offense and defense. They have been rolling over teams. Their only loss is to Stevenage, the hottest team in the Conference, and that was a road match. Goalkeeper Andy Warrington is one of the Conference's best netminders, and striker-forwards Paul Barnes, Jamie Paterson and Greg Blundell have few equals. Midfielders Andy Watson and Robert Gill are also among the best in the league at their positions.

Against this will run a hot Kettering squad that has won three in a row after a disappointing start. And in attendance will likely be a sizable crowd of Poppy fans, who will see their side again for the first time since two weeks ago, when pre-winning streak gloom and doom was at its peak for this club.

The only bad news for Kettering in this match to prove it belongs is that it will have to play without sudden star striker Chris Thompson. Thompson suffered a neck injury in the 3-0 win over Forest Green on Tuesday, and will probably miss at least two weeks of play. Thompson has three goals in three games.

The match will begin at 3 p.m. at Rockingham Road in Kettering

Other Conference Matchups

Match of the Day: Doncaster at Kettering-- We won't go into this again--just read above. Simply, no other Conference matches compare to it today. For one side, it is a chance to stay up with Stevenage. For the other, it is proof it is legitimate.

Also today:

Margate at Barnet
Gravesend at Chester
Farnborough at Leigh RMI
Nuneaton Borough at Morecambe
Dag & Red at Scarborough
Burton Albion at Southport
Hereford at Stevenage
Halifax at Telford
Forest Green at Woking
Northwich at Yeovil

[Chief Rum]

September 14, 2002

"It looks like a busy one today," Andy said, surveying the gradually filling stands from his seat.

"Well, as it should be," Peter responded. "This is a big match."

"True enough."

"Where is Randall with the chips and ale?" Peter asked, looking around.

"Probably trapped in a long line with this crowd, or talking it up with some hot number," Andy said, grinning salaciously. "If I had his battleaxe of a wife, I would be fanning out for better options myself."

Peter chortled at the jape--an old joke among mates, since half the time Randy's wife never even lets him near the ground.

"Ah here they are," Andy said.

Randall had appeared out of the crowd, with William in tow. Rich red ale in short cups abound in the hands of both.

"It looks like we'll get this one off right," Peter said.

"Bloody hell!" William exclaimed as he collapsed into his seat. "What a line! Half the park looks to be filled if that line's a guess."

He handed over one of his beers to Andy, as Randall finally settled in.

"We haven't seen a crowd this big for a regualr season match since '01," Randall said. "Course, Derby was quite a sight bigger--we had a full house for that one. But what do you expect with a Division One side. And look at them now--looking like they will be headed to the premier next season. Imagine that!"

Andy looked at the pitch as he passed a beer to Peter.

"Is Thompson going to play," he asked hopefully.

"No, you bloody oaf, he is done and gone for at least two matches," Peter said. "Wish we had seen the Scarborough match two weeks ago."

"I spoke to some chaps who went," Randall said. "They say he's the real deal. That Trudgian kid, too--serious height on that one, they said. He won every header sent his way."

"We'll see soon enough about that," Andy said. "It looks like the match is about to start."

A few game minutes later

"Hmm...we seem to be pressing well," Peter commented. "I like the look of this tactic. It's much more exciting than the drab set we ran against Barnet."

"Yeah, but press all you want," William said. "If you don't score it doesn't matter..."

23rd minute

"Shite! Watson got it on the wing," Andy excalimed. The crowd was getting rowdy as the midfielder moved down the left--and near--side of the pitch.

"Watson, give it up, you testy bugger!" Andy screamed at the player. Dowie closed in on him before he moved it to center.

Winger Gareth Owen stepped up and passed it back toward the streaking Watson.

"Oh, bloody obvious, but Dowie is fooled," Peter groused. Dowie tried to catch Watson from behind asd the midfielder approaches the line.

"Watch for Blundell!" Peter screamed suddenly, rising in his seat.

Watson turned and moved a pass into the box--and right at Doncaster striker Blundell, camping out in front of the net.

Williamson steps in, though and knocks it away.

Before the guys can react, though, it's on Peterson's foot. They watched in silent horror as the Scottish striker bruies it past Bowling up close. The keeper never had a chance.

Peter groaned as the four men sat, Andy with his head in his hands.

"Off the rebound, for Heaven's sake," Andy lamented. "That was a fine interception by Williamson. Too bad he couldn't control it."

"We'll get it bacl," William said optimistically. "We have been in their face all day so far. I just know we can push it across."

"We had better hope so," Randall responded...

Halftime

"Well, so much for offense," Andy said disgustedly.

"Now, now, we are on the doorstep," William said, keeping his spirits up. "That Warrington is a tough one to beat. But if we keep on them we can get one by."

"These Rovers may be a tough squad, btu they don't look that tough," Peter said. "I think we can still take them. We had good control of the ball, and their goal was luckily scored."

48th minute

Howarth reaches the goal kick and heads it forward to Diuk. Diuk then turns and fires a pass toward Trdugian near the box.

"Oh! Nice pass!," William said.

"Look, he's got Itonga!" Peter said, pointing.

Itonga moved left into the box, a Doncaster fullback trying to close him down. Warrington moves forward in anticipation.

"He's shooting!" Randall said, rising.

Itonga unleashes a shot on net from just inside the box. It is a high shot. Warrington is going to have to jump for it. He extends forward and up as the ball, looking good, sails high toward the net...

...but Warrington just reaches it and sends the ball flying over the bar for a corner.

"Oh, shit! So close," William bemoaned. "Itonga should have angled it a bit."

"Well, he only had one real good angle, and he knocked ti goos," Peter said. "Warrington is just on today."

"Here's the corner," Andy said.

Itonga rears back and sends a hanger into the center of the box. Several players leap, but Wayne Diuk rises above them and heads it toward a corner of the net.

"Oh!" thew four exclaim!

Not quite, the ball bounces off of Watson, who tried to deflect it away, and it bounded off for another corner.

"Damn!" Andy said in a huff. "I thought that was in."

"Here's another chance at least," Peter said.

Itonga sends another one into the box, although this one is a little further out. Some players collide as the ball squeaks through untouched.

Whistles blare.

"What's this?" Peter asked, frowning. Andy starts praying aloud for a penalty.

The official waves off play, and signals a foul on Trudgian.

"Sonofa...that ref is daft!" Peter exclaimed. But the call stands. Doncaster gets a free kick, after Trudgian is ruled to have backed into a defender.

51st minute

Bowling clears the ball deep into the Doncaster pitch-side.

"Come on Poppies, let's get it going!" William yells from his seat.

Miller rises above the Poppy players and heads it back across the midline.

"Oh no," Peter said. "Blundell's under it!"

Blundell does a little ditch to the right, but Howarth doesn't bite. His avenue to the box closed, Blundell lifts a sot floater toward the net.

"Come on Bowling!" Andy said.

Andy need not have worried--the soft shot falls easily into Bowling's hands to end the opportunity.

58th minute

"Williamson has it! Come on Davy!" Randall said.

The midfielder moves it up to Dowie, who punches it forward to Murray.

"They have a man up on the charge!" William said, pointing.

William was right. Murray, Trudgian and Itonga were all advancing on the net and just two defenders. Murray moves a quick pass forward to Trudgian, who sidesteps and sends it down to Itonga. Itong ahas the step!

"Come on, score!" Peter yells, as Itonga fires...but it goes right at Warrington, who clutches and grabs the hard shot.

"Shit! That was right at him!" Andy said. "We can't very well score if we keep hitting at the guy."

Peter nodded his agreement.

68th minute

"I'm beginning to get desperate, guys," Peter lamented. "This one is getting close to the end."

"Shut up, Tenford," Randall said. "You'll jinx the boys."

Doolan has the ball at midfield, and he moves it up to Watson as he approaches the box from left and out.

Watson is attracting attention from a bevy of Kettering defenders, but he moves inside. Using an effective swing charge, he finds a hoel and charges into the box.

Peter fears he knows what is coming next. How did he get intot he box?

Watson unleashes a shot at Bowling, firing at waist level to Bowling's right. Bowling slides over nicely and deflects he hard shot into the ground and to behind right...but...

"Shite! The ball didn't clear!" Peter yelled. Players from both sides converged on the ball, which was sitting just inside the goal line not more than a couple feet from the left net post.

Solkhon gets to it first, and unleashes a clearing shot in the obly direction he has time for, sending the ball into the terraces beyond the left wing.

"Oh, that was a great get by Solkhon," William said. "That could have been a score."

"way to keep us in it, rook!" Andy called.

78th minue

"Itonga's got a step on him," Peter said. Itonga was clearly going to reach a long ball before the Doncaster defender would get there.

"into the box with you, Itonga," Randall said. Like a mind reader, Itonga turns and puts in a floater right onto the front end of the net. Trudgian and his man leap up for the shot, but the other guy wins...

"Damn...but wait!..." Randy continues. Trudgian moves it back to Dowie, who immediately puts out to Duik on the right wing.

Warrington raced over to get the shot...and Duik buries it right into his hands.

"Oh come on!" Peter said. "Guys, you have to hit it toward the open part of the net!"

Full Time

"Well, that's that," Peter said in disgust. "They just couldn't beat the guy."

All four were getting up and grumbling at the nature of Poppy football.

"So much for all that offense," Andy moaned. "I guess Thompson is our offense--without him, we're nothing."

"Well, we did seem to dominate the abll play, and I wasn't keeping track, but I am certain we beat them on shots," Randall said. "We just didn't put it in the net. We'll get them next time, when we have Thompson."

The four join the throngs heading for the exits.

[Chief Rum]

September 15, 2002

Northampton Chronicle & Echo

Rovers Edge Poppies Behind Hot Warrington

KETTERING-- It's always hard to beat a good keeper when he's on. And the Poppies ran into one Saturday afternoon at the Rock.

Despite eight shots and several good scoring chances, including six on net, the Poppies couldn't solve Doncaster's star keeper Andy Warrington, who was exceptional through the 1-0 win.

It was Warrington's fourth shutout in six matches, and Doncaster clearly has one of the best defenses in the Conference.

"Warrington was on," Kettering manager Matthew Kieta said. "I thought we would get him, but we just didn't bury our opportunities."

The Poppies dominated ball play, especially in the second half when the Rovers fell into a defensive tactic. The ball was in Doncaster's third of the pitch for an equal third of the match time, and most of the rest was spent fighting off Poppy drives in the middle.

The Rovers got their goal with simple workmanship, beating Kettering keeper Ian Bowling--who himself was pretty solid Saturday--in the 18th minute.

Winger Andy Watson intercepted a pass near midfield on the wing and used a give-and-go pass with midfielder Gareth owen to set him up along the left goal line. His pass to the box was deftly deflected by Kettering midfielder Davy Williamson, but Williamson and a crowd of others in the box appeared to limit Bowling's vision of where the ball went.

Unfortunately for Poppy fans, the ball rebounded to Scottish striker Jamie Peterson's foot, and he jammed it home just before Bowling could cycle over to get there, hitting it in off the post as if he were emphasizing the tightness of the shot. It was Paterson's third goal of the season.

Nevertheless, the Poppies continued to press. Their best opportunity was in the 51st minute. Striker Carlin itonga got free for an open shot into the box after a nice set of passes from midfielder Shaun Murray and fellow striker Ryan Trudgian. Warrington just barely reached Itonga's high shot with his fingertips to force a corner.

Two ensuing corner kicks produced no scores, including a Wayne Duik header that was deflected away from net before it could cross the line.

The victory was a huge one for the Rovers, who moved back into a tie for first place in the Conference with Stevenage. Kettering, which had a three-matchw in streak snapped, fell to ninth in the league standings, where it is tied with Yeovil Town and Leigh RMI.

[Chief Rum]

September 15, 2002

Northampton Chronicle & Echo

Nationwide Conference Wrap Up

Barnet 3, Margate 1 The Bees overcame an early deficit to pull out a closer match than the final tally indicates on their own pitch. Gate striker Phil Collins scored his fifth goal in six matches in the 21st minute to give Margate the early lead, and the side generally held its own under Barnet pressure most of the match. The Bees tied it up on Irish forward Lee Feeney's first goal of the season, but they didn't take the lead until a penalty by midfielder Lee Cook, who scored his third goal of the season on the play. Top notch reserve striker Toby Oshitola sealed the victory with a 90th minute score, also his third of the season.

Gravesend 3, Chester 2 The Fleet got some scoring from some unlikely sources to surprise Chester City on the road Saturday. The Blues got on the board quickly, moving from the kickoff circle to a quick strike score by forward midfielder Jon Brady, his first of the season. Gravesend quickly responded, though. Striker Simon Parker got his first goal of the season in the twelfth minute, and midfielder Ben White added his second to give the Fleet a lead they wouldn't relinquish. Defender Justin Skinner finished up the scoring in the 69th victory and sealed the victory as well. One bit of bad news for Gravesand--Simon Parker hurt his foot and will miss two weeks.

Doncaster 1, Kettering 0 Doncaster proved its worth with a big road win over the hot Poppies of Kettering, and allowing to move into a tie with Stevenage for first atop the Conference table. Irish striker Jamie Paterson scored his third goal of the season in the 18th minute to give the Rovers the edge. Superb play by the defense and by keeper Andy Warrington allowed the Rovers to survive a consistent Poppy attack that had several opportunities to score.

Leigh RMI 2, Fsrnborough 0 You just knew it wasn't going to be Farnborough's day when midfielder Gary Butterworth had to leave the match with knee problems in just the third minute. Sure enough, the Boro struggled against Leigh's defense, taking just two shots the whole game. Meanwhile, Leigh piled up nine, and pushing across scores by striker Scott Fitzgerald and midfielder Milligan.

Morecambe 3, Nuneaton Borough 1 The Boro's striker Mark Qualyle continued his hot play of late, scoring his thrid goal in two games Saturday. Unfortunately for Nuneaton, there was little else to cheer for. Morecambe striker Robbie Talbot scored his third and fourth goals of the season--including one just in the second minute of the match--and fellow striker Wayne Curtis scored his first goal of the season as well to give the Shrimps a strong home victory.

Scarborough 0, Dag & Red 0 Scarborough may be near the bottom of the standings, but try telling that to preseason Conference favorite Dagenham. The Daggers tried, but could not beat Scarborough keeper Andy Woods on his own pitch. The two sides traded five shots each, but neither could get a goal across. The Boro gain some respect points for holding out against a more talented club, and Dag & Red--the runner up in the Conference last season--continues on its way in what has been a hot-and-cold start for them so far this season. Scarborough got some bad news when forward midfielder Anthony Ormerod broke his arm in the 60th minute. He will be out for 4-5 weeks.

Southport 2, Burton Albion 2 The Port have to be tremendously disappointed to not come away with the win on this one. They dominated play, with 10 shots to Burton's three, but they couldn't stop Brewers striker Christian Moore, who scoed twice to keep his side apace with the home team. Moore has scored five goals in four matches now, with two two-goal matches. He gave the Brewers the early lead, but the Port came back to take the lead on goals by striker Robert Pell and midfielder Steve Soley. Finally, in the 76th minute, Moore scored his second goal and eventually forcing the draw.

Stevenage 2, Hereford 0 Stevenage regained some of its moxie in this home match after losing its first game against Dag & Red Tuesday. The Boro once again relied on super-striker Charlie MacDonald, who pushed acorss his sixth and seventh goals of the season to lead the scoring. His first goal came in the 18th minute to give the Boro the lead, and his late goal in the 88th minute, selaed the deal. Hereford managed just four shots against Stevenage's defense.

Telford 3, Halifax 0 The Shaymen were shut out for the fourth time this season already, this time by the Bucks of Telford. The Shaymen's pathetic offensive showing has resulted in just two goals on the season. Telford beat that mark in this match alone. Bulls striker Peter Smith did most of the scoring, getting his fifth and sixth goals of the season. His first goal was a penalty in the eighth minute. Midfielder Jacque Williams also scored, his first of the season. Halifax did not get one shot off on net--not a single one.

Woking 3, Forest Green 0 The Cardinals jumped to a 2-0 lead by halftime in their home match against Forest Green and never looked back. Midfielder Ian Hamilton and forward Chris Sharpling did the dirty work, each nabbing their second goals of the season. Star striker Warren Patmore put the finishing touches on with a second half goal, his sixth of the season. The Rovers barely got any shots off, putting two on net against the Cards' defense.

Northwich 3, Yeovil 0 Well, how about that? The Vics went into tough Yeovil and came out with a strong victory. Northwich dominated play, despite being the road side, holding Yeovil down to just two shots in the match. Striker Johnny Allan, who had a four-match sscoring string snapped Tuesday by Woking, returned with a flourish, nothcing two scores in qucik succession late in the first half. From there, the Vics rolled to an easy victory.

INJURIES & BANS

The most serious injury goes to Scarborough midfielder Anthony Ormerod, who broke his arm in the match with Dag & Red. He will be out until at least mid-October. Gravesend & Northfleet will have to do without the services of striker Simon Parker for a couple weeks after he hurt his foot in their victory over Chester City. Farnborough midfielder Gary Butterworth had to leave the match against Leigh RMI, but he is only expected to miss about a week with what was diagnosed as a mild knee sprain.

Maybe good behavior clauses in contracts actually work. For the second straight match day, no one was sent off for professional fouls or accumulating too many yellow cards in Conference action.

[Fonzie]

As usual, great work Chief!

[Chief Rum]

Thanks, Fonzie. :)

I'm going to take my first crack at a table next.

CR

[Chief Rum]

September 15, 2002

Northampton Chronicle & Echo

CONFERENCE TABLE

<font face=courier>
Pos Club GP W D L GF GA GD Pts

1st Doncaster 6 5 0 1 10 4 +6 15
2nd Stevenage 6 5 0 1 10 4 +6 15
3rd Northwich 6 4 2 0 11 5 +6 14
4th Barnet 6 4 1 1 10 5 +6 13
5th Gravesend 6 3 2 1 9 6 +3 11
6th Telford 6 3 1 2 9 4 +5 10
7th Dag & Red 6 3 1 2 9 6 +3 10
8th Chester 6 3 1 2 10 10 0 10
9th Kettering 6 3 0 3 8 5 +3 9
10th Yeovil 6 2 1 3 7 6 +1 9
11th Leigh RMI 6 3 0 3 6 9 -3 9
12th Farnborough 6 2 2 2 6 5 +1 8
13th Southport 6 2 2 2 7 8 -1 8
14th Woking 6 2 1 3 11 10 +1 7
15th Margate 6 2 1 3 8 8 0 7
16th Hereford 6 2 1 3 7 8 -1 7
17th Morecambe 6 2 0 4 9 11 -2 6
18th Burton Albion 6 1 3 2 6 8 -2 6
19th Nuneaton Borough 6 1 1 4 7 13 -6 4
20th Scarborough 6 1 1 4 3 9 -6 4
21st Forest Green 6 1 0 5 3 14 -11 3
22nd Halifax 6 0 1 5 2 12 -10 1
</font>

[Chief Rum]

September 18, 2002

London Times

Liverpool Survives Visit To Rotterdam

ROTTERDAM-- Liverpool escaped the Netherlands with a hard-fought victory over Dutch side Feyenoord, 1-0, in the Champions League group stage.

Both goalkeepers, Edwin Zoltebeir for Feyenoord and Jerzy Dudik for Liverpool, were both roundly excellent, as 16 of 17 shots total in the match failed to hit the mark.

The only one that got in was a penalty in the 18th minute, scored by Liverpool's Senegalese defensive midfielder Salif Allassane Diao.

Both sides will finish up the first round robin of the group stage next week.

In other United Kingdom Champions League action, Celtic put an exclamation point on a visit from Italian power Juventus. In what was generally thought to be a key early match in their group, Celtic soundly trumped Juventus 3-1 in Glasgow.

The Celtic won with an international flavor as Bulgarian forward midfielder Stillian Petrov, Northern Irish Neil Lennon, and Swedish super striker Henrik Larsson all scored for the home team.

Manchester United meets Deportivo in A Coruña in Spain tonight, while Arsenal hosts French power Lens at Highbury.

[Chief Rum]

Thursday, September 19, 2002

London Times

Arsenal, Man U Both Win In Champions League

LONDON-- Continuing what has been a good run for United Kingdom clubs in the Champions League this season, both Arsenal and Manchester United won their matches Wednesday night.

Arsenal defeated French power Lens, 1-0 at Highbury Park. Dutch star forward Dennis Bergkamp did the damage, scoring a goal in the 36th minute.

The real hero was Arsenal's smothering defense, though, which limited Lens to just three shots for the match.

In Spain, Manchester United took on strong Spanish side Deportivo, and came away with a tough 2-1 victory in A Coruña.

The match remained scoreless for most of the match, as both sides pressed but failed to crack the other's defense. Both Man U's goalkeeper Fabien Marthez and Deportivo's netminder José Francisco Molina were excellent.

Finally, in the 68th minute, Welsh superstar Ryan Giggs got one past Molina to move manchester up. That seemed to deflate Deportivo, as they allowed another goal to Uruguayan forward Diego Forlán shortly after, in the 75th minute.

An 89th minute goal by Deportivo midfielder Juan Carlos Valerón came too late to save the Spanish club from defeat.

Manchester United did get a bit of a scare when star striker Ruud van Nistlerooy had to leave the match early with an injury, but it turned out to be minor and he is not expected to miss any other matches.

In eight Champions League group stage matches by United Kingdom clubs so far, the British side has come out on top in seven of them. The lone exception was Arsenal's defeat in Germany last week at the hands of FC Bayern. The other clubs are Liverpool and Scottish side Celtic.

[Chief Rum]

Thursday, Spetember 19, 2002

London Times

Several British Clubs In Action In UEFA Cup

LONDON-- Sure, it's the "lesser" cup, but not too many clubs will be complaining about playing in it. Nine United Kingdom clubs will begin a quest to take this cup as the first round of the UEFA Cup competition starts up tonight.

The UEFA Cup features the best clubs not featured in the Champions League. It takes the 16 clubs which lost in the Champions League final qualifier, and adds them to a group which contains 36 first seeds from various leagues across Europe, the three Inter-Toto Cup winners from earlier this summer, and 41 qualifying round candidates, and then does a massive, 96-club draw to set up the field.

After that, it's one-round elimination until all that remains is the champion. Last year, the winner was Dutch side Feyenoord, which won the right through Champions League qualifying to remain in the group stage for that vaunted cup.

The highlighted club for the United Kingdom is Newcastle, which lost out in the qualifying round for the Champions League. They will be playing for some redemption and respect in this tournament. Tonight, they start with a road visit to Spanish side Alavés in Vitoria, Spain.

The other English clubs in competition are Leeds, Chelsea and Blackburn from the Premier League, and Ipswich Town from the First Division.

Ipswich seems to get the toughest matchup, as they will host vaunted Italian power Lazio at Portman Road.

Blackburn will also have a tough match against French side Auxerre in Blackburn tonight.

Chelsea is in Cyprus to plau Anorthosis, while Leeds travels to Estonia for a match with Tallinna Levadia.

Three Scottish sides are also in action, including the Rangers. They will travel to Bucharest, Romania for a macthup with Dinamo Bucharest.

Aberdeen hosts Belgian side genk tonight, and Livingston is getting a visit from Irish side Dundalk.

Welsh side Bangor City rounds out the group of British sides in the running. They will host Lithuanian side Atlantas.

The first round will be played in two legs, with the second leg set to be completed on October 3.

Some of the other notable clubs in the competion are Porto, Betis, Celta, Torino, Lorient and Club Brugge.

[Chief Rum]

Friday, September 20, 2002

Northampton Chronicle & Echo

Poppy Defender Carson Out Until Spring

KETTERING-- The Poppies' defensive core took a small hit Thursday evening when reserve defender Liam Carson suffered a slipped disk while weight training.

The painful injury is expected to have Carson in traction and out of action for almost the entire rest of the season. If he does come back this season, it won't be until late February or March of 2003.

It is not known if Carson suffered the injury while pressing too hard to improve. Carson hasn't seen any action in competitive matches yet this season, although he did play a significant number of the preseason friendlies.

[Chief Rum]

Friday, September 20, 2002

London Times

Betis Signs Morientes From Real Madrid

SEVILLA, Spain-- In a surprising intra-league move, Spanish power Real Madrid sold star striker Fernando Morientes to Real Betis Balompié for £10.5 M.

Morientes, a popular star for Spain's national team, seemed to welcome the deal, as it removes him from sharing time with fellow Spanish star Raul and Brazilian superstar Ronaldo in Real Madrid's crowded forward line.

Morientes, 26, had six goals in seven appearances for Real Madrid, including four starts. He will likely receive full time and a starring role with Betis, a noted rival of Real Madrid.

Morientes will still be paired with Raul for international matches for Spain.

Real Madrid was mum on what they would do with the transfer funds, although it seems reasonable to assume that some of it will go to pay for star Portuguese forward midfielder Deco, whom they bought from Porto two weeks ago for £9 M.

[Chief Rum]

Saturday, September 21, 2002

Northampton Chronicle & Echo

Match Day

KETTERING-- After a week's layoff for all of English football, thanks to international cup play, the Conference returns to actuion Saturday.

And with it, financially-troubled Hereford is visiting the Rock to play the Poppies of Kettering. Hereford United has been very hit-and-miss this season, and is currently on a downturn--they haven't won a match since August 24.

Adding to their woes, on September 1 it was announced that they had gone into receivership. As of yet, no players have been sold from the roster, but it is well-known they are shopping them. Today's match might even be a tryout, if Kettering manager Matthew Kieta is at all interested in any of the Bulls' players.

Hereford, in 13th place, is coming off of a 2-0 road loss to table-topping Stevenage last Saturday. Kettering itself played the other league-leader Doncaster, falling 1-0 in a tight match at home last weekend.

Hereford's leading scorer is surprising John Grant, who has four goals. Grant is not regarded as an extremely talented forward, but he opened the season with an eye-opening hat trick against Chester on August 17. He has only scored once in the five matches since.

No one else on the roster has more than one goal.

Kettering, the 9th place team in the Conference, has won three of its past four matches and seems to playing very well. Leading scorer Chris Thompson, who has three goals on the season, is still out with a neck stinger suffered against Woking on September 10, but the Poppies still have two-goal scorers Ryan Trudgian and Carlin itonga in the lineup.

The Poppies will also be without the services of reserve defender Liam Carson, who suffered a serious back injury thursday and is likely out until 2003.

Other Conference Matches

Match of the Day Northwich at Chester-- The Vics of Northwich have rather sneakily entered the top end of the table in the Conference so far, as few took note of their rise until their dominating 3-0 road defeat of well-regarded Yeovil. Just six matches into the season, though, and the Vics are the only remaining side with no losses, including table-topping Doncaster and Stevenage (both of whom have one loss). The Vics have four wins and two draws on the season. Today they go into Chester to play the 8th place Blues. Chester lost a high-scoring affair with Gravesend 3-2 on Tuesday, but it was their first loss in five matches.

Also today:

Farnborough at Barnet
Dag & Red at Forest Green
Hereford at Kettering
Gravesend at Leigh RMI
Halifax at Morecambe
Margate at Scarborough
Yeovil at Southport
Nuneaton Borough at Stevenage
Burton Albion at Telford
Doncaster at Woking

[Chief Rum]

September 21, 2002

Radio Announcer Tommy Ridgely: Welcome to another great Saturday afternoon of football at Rock! Today, we have your Poppies of Kettering taking om the Bulls of Hereford.

The Poppies are looking for a little retribution after losing that close one against Doncaster last Saturday. They knew they had their chance, and they didn't make it happen, so you know where that's gotta stick in them. Expect them to come out with a passion today.

Hereford themselves have not looked so hot, with no wins on the docket since late August. But they are still a solid team with some good players. This should be an exciting one from the get-go.

The big question of the day--can the Poppies produce any goals without Thompson? No, Chris Thompson is not quite ready to return to the pitch today, although he's close. The Poppies need to come up with an answer to that one if they expect to start up a new win streak here today.

The officials are calling for the match to start so let's go to the action...

9th minute

...Baker has the ball and is ready for the goal kick...he puts some weight into it and booms it down to Clarke on the wing...Clarke is alone, he turns and centres it across the midline...Dowie and Williams converging...Williams dishes it down to Parry...Parry unleashes a shot! Wide to the right! The midfielder had no chance on that one...he was too far out, he missed it badly and Bowling is ready for him...

11th minute

...Clarke with the throw in...he tosses it over to Parry down the line...Parry is under pressure, he turns and short passes inward to Pittman...a NICE tackle by Holyoak...but Clarke gets it and moves it up to Grant...to Sawyer...Sawyer has a step in the box!...a blast! But But off of Bowling--to GRANT! No! Howarth witha beautiful save and he clears it off the pitch...The Poppies dodged one there...Bowling did well to deflect Sawyer's shot, but that one went right to Grant. If Howarth didn't sneak up behind him and boot it out, we would be looking at a deficit...

14th minute

...Grant runs with it...nice tackle by Matthews...he moves it down to Murray at the circle...Murray lofts a high one down the pitch...he has Itonga open! Teesdale is racing over...Itonga into the box...Baker tenses...a shot!...Clutched and grabbed by Baker! Ow! Itonga hit it right at him despite an open look at the net...

15th minute

...Duik with the throw in...to Inman, little pressure...a cross-pitch pass--but Teesdale steps into it and sends it mid-pitch...Matthews collects it and turns back toward the net...a nice pass by Matthews! To Trudgian near the box! He dishes it to Inman who goes to the line...Under pressure...he crosses it...Trudgian's heading...IT SCORES! GOOOOOOAAAAAALLLL! The Poppies get the early lead on a beautiful cross and header by Inman and Trudgian! Simply a beautiful play, Kettering fans, from matthews' impressive pass through numerous defenders to Trudgian near the box to the dish-and-return play of Inman and Trudgian to the sharp header into the net...Baker never had a chance at it!...

28th minute

...Clark has an open wing...pushign the ball done...he moves it long up toward Pittman...Pittman turns and blasts it toward the box...he has Grant all alone! Grant into the box...he shoots! Right at Bowling! Ian with the clutch! What a play by the veteran keeper and what a horrible defense by Kettering...Grant could have waltzed into the box with a hole that size...Good for us he is no good at placing it into the net...

38th minute

...Inman throws it in...Dowie takes it on...he's dancing with it in a square near the middle right wing...he splits defenders with a nice forward pass...Murray and Teesdale on it...Teesdale clears it out nicely with the header...Rose collects it on the left wing...he moves forward...then the pass forward...but Matthews intercedes and sends the ball flying over to the other side...Duik is on it...he send it forward...ma, Itonga looks wide open...but the pass sails over his head and across the touch line...

43rd minute

...Inman sends the corner near the right side of the box...Trudgian up...back to Holyoak...to Howarth! Shoots! GOAL! He scores it, and what a nice pass play by the Poppies! Oh man, just beautiful by Holyoak...Trudgian got him the ball, and he redirected it Howarth on the right side, where the Bulls were just ignoring him...he even had time to set up his shot...and he just blasts it over Baker...that's his first goal of the season...2-0 Poppies...

Halftime

...The shot tallies don't look too fearsome, with three to each side, but this one has been all Poppies so far! They have connected when it counted, and they hold the 2-0 lead at the halfway point...Kettering dominated ball possession and spent a third of the match so far in front of the Bulls' goal...Thompson who?...

49th minute

...Clarke throws it in..but it's off, Duik intercepts and lofts it forward...Pitman and Murray, it's Pitman...down to Parry...backtrack...turns and passes to Sawyer...he has a lane! Shoots! Deflected off of Bowling and across the line for a corner...a fine save by Bowling, but Sawyer could have done more with that...here's Williams with the corner...drifting near and outward...Dowie steps up and boots it to mid-pitch...nice play by the Rangers midfielder...

55th minute

...Itonga charges under the pass...he's alone and advcancing on the wing...Teesdale rushes to join him...pass to center...Trudgian--but Tretton cuts in with a nice tackle! He clears it into the pitch...Trudgian had an open shot from inside the box if he got that one...

57th minute

...Hereford with the freekick...Rose steps up and boots it toward the net...it's sailing high...too high, it's over the bar...goalkick to Kattering...

75th minute

...the Poppies have been playing much more defensive this half...here's the freekick for Hereford...Willaims is taking this one, he's at an angle to the goal...he blasts a hard low shot! OH, wide left and out of bounds! Well struck by Williams, but that rocket wasn't aimed right...and Bowling was there...

Full Time

...and the Poppies get back on track with a nice 2-0 win over the Bulls of Hereford. They fell completely into themselves int he second half and let Hereford have their way of it, but they were in control the whole way...Hereford had its best chances int he first half...they just didn't capitalize on them...so the Poppies take their fourth win in five matches and continue their strong play of late...

[Chief Rum]

Sunday, September 22, 2002

Northampton Chronicle & Echo

Bowling Hurt In Win Over Hereford

KETTERING-- The Poppies didn't come away from a 2-0 victory over Hereford Saturday completely unscathed.

After the match, it was reported that starting goalkeeper and on-pitch captain Bowling had suffered a shoulder strain in the match. The injury will keep Bowling out of action for the next couple weeks, whcih could be big with three Conference matches in a week, starting this Saturday.

Bowling reportedly suffered the injury while making a save in the second half, but he didn't realize it was as badly hurt as it was until after the match. Manager Matthew Kieta said Bowling couldn't lift his arm above his shoulder after icing down after the match.

Backup goalkeeper Simon Ward will likely be expected to handle net duties in Bowling's absence. Ward has never started in a match at this high a level of football.

In the match at Rockingham Road Saturday, the Poppies were strong when they needed to be. They onmly got three shots on goal in the first half, but their active attack kept the pressure strong on Hereford, and they made the most of their chances when they came.

The Poppies got their first score in the 14th minute when defender Martin Matthews initiated what turned out to be a textbook passing game play. Matthews moved the ball forward to striker Ryan Trudgian in the box. Trudgiuan dished it off to right winger Niall Inman on the wing, who advanced on the line and crossed a high pass back intot he box. Trudgian then finished off the play with a great header that Hereford keeper Matthew Baker didn't have a chance at.

The Poppies got another one off of a corner kick in the 43rd minute. Inman sent a short curving pass into the box, which Trdugian headed to defensive midfielder Danny Holyoak. He in turn made a spectacular side pass to fullback Lee Howarth, who was virtually unguarded at the other end of the box. Howarth proceeded to knock it high and hard past Baker for the 2-0 Kettering lead.

In the second half, the Poppies settled in for a much more defensive posture. Hereford came on strong, but they weren't able to crack Bowling, damaged shoulder and all, or the defense.

Hereford actually ended up outshooting the Poppies, 6-4, not that it did them any good.

The win is Kettering's fourth in five matches. The Bulls, who are currently in receivership, continue to suffer on the pitch as well, with their fourth straight match without a victory.

[Chief Rum]

Sunday, September 22, 2002

Northampton Chronicle & Echo

Nationwide Conference Wrap Up

Barnet 3, Farnborough 0 While Barnet certainly were controlling the game ont he pitch Saturday at their own ground of Underhill in London, it took them 70 minutes to finally make any good come out of it. That's when striker Junior Agogo finally broke a scoreless match with his first goal since the opening match of the season. He would later score his second goal of the match, and third of the season, in the dwindling minutes of the match. Bees reserve striker Toby Oshitola extended his scoring streak to three straight matches with his fourth goal of the season, a match-sealer in the 78th minute. Farnborough put a pathetic two shots on net all match.

Chester 3, Northwich 0 So what if Northwich hasn't been defeated, say the Blues. Chester showed the Vics the door and rudely, blasting them out of Deva Stadium in Chester. Northwich had entered the match in third in the Conference standings and was the only remaining undefeated side in the league--until Saturday. Striker Ryan Sugden got his fourth goal of the season in just the sixth minute, and added a second goal in the 41st minute. Fellow striker Daryle Clare scored his fifth goal of the season just before halftime, and he would have had two scores as well, had he made his penalty attempt in the 19th minute. The Blues outshot the Vics 12 to two.

Forest Green 2, Dag & Red 0 It's becoming more and more apparent that this Dagenham squad isn't quite as solid as last year's runner up. The Daggers struggled to get any offense going against the woeful Rovers of Forest Green, who, despite the win, is still in a relegation spot. Truth be told, Rover keeper Ellis Glassup was just on today, as the two sides had nearly matching shot totals (seven to six, Forest Green). High profile Irish international veteran midfielder Alan McLoughlin got his first goal of the season in the 40th minute, and striker Neil Grayson, another player on the wrong side of 30, scored his second goal of the season in the 45th minute to provide the final deficit. The Daggers, considered to be the preseason favorite to win the Conference, falls to twelfth int he standings now, with just three wins in seven matches and a paltry +1 goal differential.

Kettering 2, Hereford 0 The Poppies got two int he first half at their home ground of Rockingham Road and then coasted the rest of the way. Striker Ryan Trudgian scored his third goal of the season in the 14th minute, and surprise scorer Lee Howarth added his first of the season in the 43rd minute. The Bulls outshot Kettering, but couldn't solve goalkeeper Bowling. Unfortunately for Kettering, Bowling suffered a shoulder strain and will miss some match time over the next couple weeks.

Leigh RMI 1, Gravesend 0 The Fleet has to be the strangest on-off team in recent memory, what with their habit of pouring on the scores in some matches and then going powerless in others. Fourtnately for host Leigh, this was one of Gravesend's power outages. Gravesend got some shots off in the match at Hilton Park in Bolton, but they weren't very much on the mark. Striker Scott Fitzgerald's score in the 26th minute proved to be the difference. Fleet midfielder Ben White will be kicking himself this week, when his manager isn't, that is. He missed a penalty in the 65th minute that would have tied it.

Morecambe 3, Halifax 0 Morecambe, a preseason favorite, seems to be trying to get back intot he groove after a bad start. They have won three of their last four matches after Saturday's demolition of the Shaymen at Christie Park in Morecambe. Halifax played a risky match, resulting in two penalty kicks, both of which Morecambe converted, and eventually in getting striker Simon Parke sent off in the 90th minute. Striker Robbie Talbot scored his fifth goal of the season on a penalty in the 28th minute, and forward Gary Thompson scored his first of the season the hard way in the 33rd minute. Reserve forward Ryan Zico-Black scored his first goal on the second penalty, in the 86th minute of the match.

Scarborough 1, Margate 0 Few sides play in smaller-score matches than Scarborough has early this season, so it's no surprise that when they get a win, it comes in the 1-0 fashion. Striker Neil campbell scored his first goal of the season, and an active defense which limited the Gate to two shots made the score stand up in a match held at The McCain Stadium in Scarborough. The Boro did get soem bad news when reserve midfielder Scott Jordan strained his knee in the 80th minute and had to leave the match. He will miss two weeks.

Yeovil 3, Southport 1 Perhaps still smarting from being smacked at home last weekend by Northwich, Yeovil took it out on the Port at Hoig Avenue in Southport. Striker Kirk Jackson, who played well in limited action with Stevenage last year,got his first two goals of the season for Yeovil in this one. In between them, midfielder Lee Johnson got his first of the season as well. Southport actually outshot Yeovil nine to seven, but their only score was an 83rd minute strike by reserve striker Paul Wheatcroft.

Stevenage 3, Nuneaton Borough 1 This is one of those strange matches where one team is playing so well offensively that they even scored for the other team. By the time forward Michael Blackwood accidentally pushed across an own goal in the 70th minute, table-topping Stevenage was already ahead 3-0. After a mostly defensive first half by the Boro at their home ground Broadhall Way in Stevenage, the home side got two scores from striker Anthony Elding, his first of the season. Midfielder Leon Bell then scored in the 66th minute. The match was typically dominated by Stevenage's defense, which held Nuneaton to just two shots.

Telford 0, Nuneaton Borough 0 The most exciting thing that happened at New Bucks Head ground in Telford Saturday was when Burton fullback Darren Wasall had to leave the match with a minor arm injury in the 36th minute. Wasall will be available for Burton's next match, but he should be glad he didn't have to stick around for this one. Just nine shots total were taken in the match that resided mostly int he middle of the pitch. Burton keeper Matt Duke was particularly excellent in fending off six Buck shots.

Doncaster 1, Woking 0 The Rovers seem to be making 1-0 road wins all the rage. One week after edging out Kettering on their home ground, table-topping Doncaster did the same thing to the Cardinals on their home pitch, the Kingfield Sports Ground in Woking. Striker Paul Barnes scored his third goal of the season in the 47th minute, and the Rover defense smothered Woking, allowing them to take just three total shots.

INJURIES & BANS

Scarborough midfielder Scott Jordan suffered a hyperextended knee in the Boro's win over Margate. The reserve will miss about two weeks. Kettering keeper Ian Bowling hurt his shoulder in the Poppies' win over Hereford, and will also likely miss two weeks.

Halifax striker Simon Parke broke the league's recent string of good behavior by being sent off in the 90th minute of his side's 3-0 loss to Morecambe. Prior to Parke's gaffe Saturday, the league had gone two full match days and three weeks without a red card.

[Chief Rum]

Wednesday, September 25, 2002

London Times

Liverpool Defeats Lyon In Champions League

LIVERPOOL-- English power Liverpool defeated French side Olympiqeu Lyonnais 2-0 at Anfield Tuesday night.

Both goals were scored by Senegalese forward El-Hadji Diouf, who got the tallies in near consecutive fashion in the 31st and 33rd minutes.

Lyon faced a stone wall in Polish keeper Jerzy Dudek, who has been fantastic for Liverpool in the Champions League matches so far. He faced off five shots by the French side.

Liverpool took eight shots themelves, and generally controlled the ball play during the match.

To the far east in Moscow, Russia, Scottish side Celtic fell 2-0 to Russian side Spartak Moscow in a furstrating match at the home team's Eduard Streltsov Stadium Torpedo.

The two sides engaged in nearly a match-long duel of defenses, and were locked up at zero entering the final minutes of the match. That's when Brazillian forward Robert finally got one past Celtic's Swedish goalkeeper Magnus Hedman in the 85th minute.

In pushing too hard to try and gain the goal back, Celtic then allowed striker Roman Pavlyuchenko to seal the deal with a second goal in the 88th minute.

Arsenal and Machester United both host Champions League matches tonight. Arsenal will play Austrian side Sturm Graz, while Man U will face off with powerful German side Leverkusen.

[Chief Rum]

Thursday, September 26, 2002

London Times

Arsenal, Man U Manhandle Opponents in Champions League

LONDON-- Arsenal and Manchester United once again demonstrated why they are among the best few clubs in the world Wednesday night when they defeated top notch Champions League opponents by matching scores of 4-0.

Arsenal was utterly dominating in its victory over Austrian side Sturm Graz at Anfield, practically camping out on Sturm Graz's side of the pitch.

Dutch forward Dennis Bergkamp got the only first half score in the 27th minute, but that's all Liverpool would end up needing with a top notch pressure attack which left Sturm Graz with just two opportunities on the net.

In the second half, Arsenal ran away with it with goals by forward midfielder Robert Pires, defensive midfielder Gilberto, and striker Patrick Vieira.

Manchester United's strong play was all the more surprsiing because it came against a well-respected and strong German side in Leverkusen.

Nevertheless, Man U's defense was even more smothering than Arsenal's, not allowing a single shot at all by the German club.

Midfield superstar David Beckham got the home team ont he board in the 25th minute, but Manchester United would not score again until blitzing the goal in the second half. Phenomenal Dutch striker Ruud van Nistlerooy, who had to leave Man U's Champions League match early last week with a minor injury, made up for lost time by striking twice in the 52nd and 66th minutes of the match. Forward Diego Forlán put the final nail in the coffin with a score in the 90th minute.

[Chief Rum]

Thursday, September 26, 2002

London Times

First Champions League Group Stage Hits Halfway Point

LONDON-- Three matches into the Champions League Phase One Group Stage, the representatives in the United Kingdom are already looking pretty good for advancing to the next group stage.

The top two clubs in each of the eight groupings will advance to the second group phase, which is scheduled to start in late November. After last night's matches, all eight groups have reached the halfway point of the home-and-home round robin Phase One.

Were the stage to end today, all four United Kingdom clubs in the competition--Arsenal, Manchester United, Liverpool, and Scottish side Celtic--would advance to the next round.

Arsenal, in Group A, is currently second with two wins and six points. Their only loss is to group-leading German power FC Bayern, which beat them in München to open the competition three weeks ago.

Austrian side Strum Graz is the only other side in the group to have a win, and Arsenal dominated them in Anfield Wednesday. French power Lens has lost all three of its matches so far.

Manchester United leads Group B, and they have yet to lose a match. They also have allowed just one goal so far. German side Leverkusen is second, and Man U manhandled them at Old Trafford Wednesday.

Spanish side Deportivo and Latvian club Skonto both lost to both Leverkusen and Man U, and drew each other, so it is unlikely either can put a run on Leverkusen at this point.

In Group F, Liverpool has been similarly dominant. In fact, in winning their three matches, they have yet to allow a single goal.

French side Lyon is currently second with two wins, followed by AEK Athens with one, and Dutch side Feyenoord, which has not yet won a match in the group stage. Feyenoord won the UEFA Cup last year, but is not putting up a strong effort this season at the next level up.

Group H features the tightest matchup involving a United Kingdom club. Celtic is tied with Italian power Juventus and Russian side Spartak Moscow for the group lead. All three clubs have two victories and six points. Celtic has the goal differential lead at +3, followed by Spartak Moscow at +2, and Juventus at +1. The three traded off losses to each other in road matches.

Hapless Norwegian side Rosenborg has been the goat for all three, with no wins and virtually no chance to advance now.

Spanish side Valencia and Dutch power Ajax look like the odds on favorites to make it out of Group C with 7 and 6 points, respectively.

Group D features one of the more intriguing tables in the stage. Portugal's Sporting leads the way, but they have just 5 points. Locomotiv Moscow of Russia and Greece's Olympiakos Piraeus have 4 points apiece, and a powerful Italian side like Roma cannot be ignored in last with 3 points either. This one could go down to the last day.

Group E looked to feature some of the bigger heavyweights. Not surprisingly, Spanish power Real Madrid has put some distance between itself and the others at the top of this group with 7 points. The issue is far from decided otherwise, though. Italian power Inter and Dutch side PSV are at 4 and 3 points, and even Ukraine's Shaktar Donetsk cannot be counted out after two surprising draws with Real Madrid and Inter.

German side Dortmund and Spanish power Barcelona lead Group G with 6 points each, but the Czech Republic's Slovan Liberec and Turkish side Galatasaray are afr from out of it with 3 points each.

[Katon]

Originally posted by Chief Rum
In the second half, Arsenal ran away with it with goals by forward midfielder Robert Pires, defensive midfielder Gilberto, and striker Patrick Vieira.


Unless Arsene Wenger's gone completely insane, Viera's a defensive midfielder.

Nitpicks aside, great dynasty.

[Chief Rum]

Originally posted by Katon
Unless Arsene Wenger's gone completely insane, Viera's a defensive midfielder.

Nitpicks aside, great dynasty.

Touché, Katon.

I often make this mistake. I see "Vieira" and my first thought is Christian Vieri for Inter. Even though I know the striker is in Italy, my mind refuses to budge and assigns anyone with a last name approaching his the position of striker. :)

Thanks for pointing that out. I'll have to eb watchful, since I imagine Arsenal is going to coem up a lot in this dynasty.

Heh heh here's an idea...I'll do a "correction" like they do in the newspapers. :)

CR

[Chief Rum]

Saturday, September 28, 2002

London Times

Valencia Buys Enrique From Barcelona

VALENCIA, Spain-- What's going on in La Liga? Don't they know you're supposed to buy international players, and not supposed to sell good players to your rivals?

Just one week after Betis made news by signing away Fernando Morientes from Real Madrid, Valencia and Barcelona have negotiated a deal to move star forward midfielder Luis Enrique to Valencia for £6.5 M.

There is also reportedly a clause for a higher fee based on appearances, which, barring injury, you would have to think Enrique will qualify for.

Enrique, 32, is one of the more creative playmakers in the world, and is himself a star of many international matches with Spain's national side.

Enrique had five goals and four assists in eight matches with Barcelona.

[Chief Rum]

Saturday, September 28, 2002

London Times

Correction

In the Thursday morning edition on page C1, it was incorrectly published that Patrick Vieira of Arsenal is a striker. He is actually a defensive midfielder.

The Times always strives to provide the best information, so we felt it important to report this error. Please accept our apologies for any confusion.

[Chief Rum]

Saturday, September 28, 2002

Northampton Chronicle & Echo

Match Day

DOVER-- The Poppies are taking their act back on the road again after two straight home matches in Kettering.

Today, the Poppies will meet Margate at its home pitch, the Crabble Athletic Ground in Dover, at 3 p.m.

Kettering has won four of its last five matches, and currently sits at sixth in the Conference, just outside of a playoff slot.

Margate is trying to break a two-match losing streak, and they have lost three of their last four matches altogether. Margate was picked to be among the better sides int he Conference in the preseason, but has struggled, with just two victories and a draw in its first seven matches. The poor play has them sitting at 16th coming into today's match.

Margate hasn't scored much this season, but when they have, it is generally striker Phil Collins doing the work. The 30-year-old has five goals on the season so far. No one else has more than one.

Defensively, they have played well so far this season, having conceded just nine goals in the seven matches. Goalkeeper Phil Smith looks very solid in the net.

Kettering is coming into the match a bit battered. Goalkeeper Ian Bowling, who has started every match for the Poppies thus far, hurt his shoulder in last week's 2-0 win over Hereford. He is definitely for today's match, and will likely miss at least one or two more. Simon Ward will get the call in his stead, although rumors say the Poppies tried and failed to lure Premier League side Blackburn to loan them young goalkeeper Ryan Robinson, who is currently transfer-listed.

The Poppies do get back the services of new star striker Chris Thompson. The loan from Grimsby Town has three goals in three matches, but suffered a neck stinger from a header gone wrong in a match against Forest Green earlier this month.

Other Conference Matches

Match of the Day Chester at Yeovil-- While there are a number of interesting matchups in the Conference today, this should be a winner. Chester has really come on after a horrible 3-0 season-opening loss to Hereford. The fifth-placed Blues have won four of their last six and have only been defeated once. They visit reknowned Huish Park in Yeovil, and a side that is looking to continue its solid play this season. Yeovil, in seventh place int eh Conference, has been beaten just once all season and are coming off of a dominating 3-1 road win over Southport.

Also today:

Leigh RMI at Burton Albion
Doncaster at Dag & Red
Stevenage at Farnborough
Morecambe at Gravesend
Barnet at Halifax
Forest Green at Hereford
Kettering at Margate
Telford at Northwich
Scarborough at Nuneaton Borough
Woking at Southport

[condors]

good luck without your keeper

[SunDancer]

How does Ward look? Is he a young, inexperience keeper with a potential to be a solid starter?

[Chief Rum]

condors: Thanks. Before I got CM4 and its 2D pitch views, I never knew how mucha goalkeeper could really screw things up by making bad decisions. Charging out of the box too soon, for instance, or misplaying a short pass that leaves him out of position. Things like that. On top of that, Ward is probably rusty, having not seen any time in almost two months. I have to think that will hurt. Cross your fingers.

Sun Dancer: You certainly are persistent in asking questions I can't answer. ;) Remember, this is from a fan's perspective.

I'll tell you what Peter Tenford knows--he's never heard of Ward before this year. Few people have. Ward played in some of the lower, lower leagues. He is 21, and looked okay in the friendlies. Peter has no idea about his potential, but it seems clear he's a big step down from Bowling.

CR

[Chief Rum]

Sunday, September 28, 2002

Northampton Chronicle & Echo

Poppies Escape Margate With Draw

DOVER-- Yes, Kettering got a point from yesterday's 0-0 draw with Margate at Crabble Athletic Ground Saturday, but it wasn't a match they will want to write home about.

Margate turned what had been a tight defensive battle in the first half into a free for all on the Poppies' goalkeeper Simon Ward, playing in his first match for the injured Ian Bowling.

Fortunately for Kettering, Ward was up to the change, facing off ten shots in total, including seven net.

Even more mind boggling was that Margate put up some of its best pressure late in the match--after the combination of having used three substitutions and an untimely injury resulted in them going it a man short during the final minutes.

In the 75th minute, reserve striker Ian Pulman, who had just come in for striker Jean-Michel Sigere in the 71st minute as the Gate's third and last sub, overextended himself on the run and collapsed ont he pitch. He had to be helped off the field, and it was later announced he had torn a groin muscle, and will miss two months or more of play.

Having used all of their subs already, the Gate were forced to go with just ten men, as if someone had been sent off. Despite this disadvantage, they continued to press on kettering and still had three or four more good opportunities on Ward before the match ended.

The Poppies seemed to have left most of their finishing power in the first half, where they took a couple good chances at Margate's keeper Phil Smith. They had a handful of runs toward the box in the second half, but the Gate's strong defense and some bad basses and miscues by the Poppies kept Smith free from having to defens any second half shots at all.

Margate got just one shot off against the Kettering defense in the first half, but nine shots in the second. Also, all seven on net shots came in the second half, forcing Ward to make a couple of brilliant saves to preserve the draw.

In the 57th minute, after defender Craig Norman headed away a Margate corner shot, the ball worked its way around the pitch to defensive midfielder Terry McFlynn, who had an open look at Ward and the net. Ward deflected his blast off to the right, but Sigere beat the defense to the ball and crossed it across the box to super-striker Phil Collins. Fortunately, Ward skated over to the other side and caught Collins full blast in time, clutching it.

In the 84th minute, in a play initiated by a free kick, midfielder Jay Saunders had the ball on the left wing. He unleashed a nice hanging pass into the box, where defensive midfielder Greg Oates had gotten behind the defense. Oates collected it and blasted it up close at Ward, who had to jump high and deflect it over the bar to knock it away.

If Ward was rusty, it wasn't all that clear. There were maybe some he should have caught instead of deflected--like McFlynn's blast in the 57th minute, but he seemed to be on top of his game otherwise. This was his first Conference match appearance ever.

[SunDancer]

I know Chief. I was just asking what the fans though of the goalkeeper :) May I ask, what is the rep of the club? I like to follow your format for my San Marino dynasty when I start, but club rep is obscure, so I plan on going with very small articles report. Does that play in a role in how much media coverage you write (article sizes, press conferences)?

[Chief Rum]

Sun Dancer, as you probably already know, I responded to your question in your dynasty thread. Good luck with that! :)

If Sun Dancer doesn't mind, also, I would like to bring over one of his ideas I hadn't thought of that I think is excellent.

I don't know how many of you all are still reading this, but I think it's fair to say that your perspective is that of a fan. As such, I encourage submissions to the local papers, such as letters to the editor describing what a bum manager Matthew Kieta is (or how great he is), or simply questions the reporter can pass along to the club (which I will endeavor to answer), or even op-ed piece about the state of the team.

Feel free and throw these out here in this thread, or if you need more information that a fan would have, but that I haven't provided in the dynasty, feel free to email me at [email protected] or PM here. I will be glad to respond and help out in anyway I can.

Thanks for reading, and go Poppies!

Chief Rum

[Chief Rum]

Sunday, September 29, 2002

Northampton Chronicle & Echo

Nationwide Conference Wrap Up

Leigh RMI 1, Burton Albion 0 Leigh went into Elton Field in Burton-on-Trent and got a key road win Saturday. Striker Scott Fitzgerald scored his fourth goal of the season--and extended a three-match scoring streak--in the 80th minute of what looked to end up a tough scoreless draw to that point. Burton Albion spent much of the match with control of the ball, but it was Leigh that got the shots off, winning the shot tally 7-4. It ended up being one shot too many for the Brewers, as they finally faltered in the end.

Doncaster 1, Dag & Red 0 Prior to the season, it could be argued this would have been the premier match of the early season. The Daggers haven't held to expectations, though, and came into this one in 11th place. It was the perfect set up for Doncaster, which has turned 1-0 road wins into an art form. Winning their third such victory in three weeks, the table-topping Rovers got the key goal from an unexpected source in defensive midfielder John Doolan in the 32nd minute. The match at Victoria Road in Dagenham was as close as it seems--only nine shots were taken, with Doncaster having the 5-4 edge.

Farnborough 3, Stevenage 1 The meeting of the Boros didn't go so well for Stevenage Saturday. The match at Cherrywood Road in Farnborough was Stevenage's second straight 3-1 defeat on the road, where it hasn't been as strong as it is at home. The story of the day was reserve Farnborough forward Leroy Griffiths, getting his first start of the season. Griffiths scored a hat trick, getting two early goals in the 12th and 26th minutes, and then finishing it off with one in the 84th minute. A late Stevenage goal by striker Charlie MacDonald did little to change the final result, as the loss drops Stevenage from the top of the table.

Gravesend 3, Morecambe 1 Saturday's match at Stonebridge Road in Northfleet was as notable for injuries as it was for football. Play was stopped no less than four times to remove injured players from the pitch, although, fortunately, none proved to be very serious. Morecambe striker Robbie Talbot and defender Jim Bentley were both removed for minor injuries close to the end of the first half, although neither is expected to be out for more than a day. On the other side, the Fleet had more serious injuries near the end of the game, with Zimbabwean international forward mifielder Tostao Kwashi leaving the match in the 82nd minute with a twisted knee, and then top forward Mark Bentley in the 90th minute with a shoulder strain. Kwashi is expected to miss a wekk, and Bentley two. Oh, yeah, and there was football, too. The Fleet put it away early, with three first half goals, including one by Bentley, his fourth of the season. The other goals were contributed by part time striker Kevin Budge--his second of the season--and midfielder Robert Owen, with his first.

Halifax 4, Barnet 1 As expected in a matchup between a top five Conference side and the dead last team in the table, a club was dominated today. Unexpectedly, it was Barnet. The Bees played much more like Halifax had been playing, and the Shaymen limited them to an abysmal two shots in the match at The Shay in Halifax. Meanwhile, Halifax pressed well enough to get 11 shots off, and even put the Bees so much under pressure that they accidentally scored an own goal. Making the match all the odder was the fact the Shaymen had scored just twice all season so far--twice in seven matches! And they were playing without their top striker, Simon Parke, who had to sit this one out after being sent off last week in Morecambe. Striker Ian Fitzgerald, starting in place of Parke and owner of one of Halifax's two goals coming into the match, scored to get things going in the 16th minute. In the 40th minute, regular starting striker Neal Tolson got his first score of the season to make it 2-0. Barnet forward Lee Feeney, who has certainly made an impact since his signing via free transfer earlier this month, got the Bees within one with his fourth goal of the season in the 44th minute. But it wasn't enough. The Shaymen got a third talley from reserve striker Brain Quailey, and then a little help from the Bees when young defender Chris Cashman accidentally scored an own goal.

Hereford 2, Forest Green 0 If there are any insomniacs near Edgar Street in Hereford, they missed out on a brilliant opportunity to get some shut eye. The Bulls and Rovers combined for just four shots the entire match. Four! The home ground Bulls had three of them, and made two of them count, which shows that maybe the pitch play put Forest Green keeper Ellis Glassup to sleep, too. The goals were scored by midfielder Paul Parry, his second of the season, and reserve Portuguese striker Albano Correia, both in the second half. Another reason to sleep through this one? This was a matchup between the 18th and 20th-placed sides in the Conference.

Margate 0, Kettering 0 With starting goalkeeper Ian Bowling on the mend, the Poppies feared their reserve netminder Simon Ward might be in for a bit of unpleasantness in his first match of the season. As it turns out, the only thing unpleasant was Kettering's utter lack of offense. Margate dominated the shot tallies, with 10 shots to Kettering's two. Ward, as it turns out, was brilliant, as he was tested on a number of occasions, but preserved a hard-fought road draw at the Gate's home ground, the Crabble Athletic Field, in Dover. Making Kettering's lack of offense even more noteworthy was the odd circumstance of Margate having used their three subs when reserve striker Ian Pulman got hurt in the 75th minute. The result was that the Gate played a man down the rest of the way--and that was when they had some of their best scoring chances. Incidentally, Pulman's injury was serious--a torn groin muscle which will likely shelve him for two months or more.

Northwich 2, Telford 1 Northwich overcame an early deficit at Wincham Park in Northwich Saturday to get the home victory. Telford striker Peter Smith, who has been phenomenal thus far this season, scored his seventh goal of the season in just the 12th minute, and putting the home side on their heels. The Vics came back, though, tying it up on attacking midfielder Ben Simpson's first goal of the season in the 29th minute. Then just after halftime, striker David McNiven scored his second goal of the season to give Northwich the lead for good. The Vics ended up with the shot advantage, 11-6, but the two sies had matching six shots on net, so this match was far from an easy home win for the Vics.

Nuneaton Borough 3, Scarborough 1 Nuneaton was big on the pressure all match along, but going into the final minutes, it appeared that Scarborough midfielder Olivier Brassart's goal in the 46th minute would prove the difference in what would be a strong road victory at Manor Park in Nuneaton for one of the Conference's weaker sides. Alas, this is why they play 90 minute. The home Boro stunned the road Boro by storming back with three goals in the last five minutes of the match, including two that were virtually back-to-back in extra time. Striker Carl Alford tied it up with his third goal in the 86th minute. Then forward Gez Murphy got his first score of the season to take the lead in the 90th minute. And then, incredibly, Alford added his second of the macth shortly after. It was a shocking turnaround for Scarborough, which has struggled mightily this season to no avail.

Southport 1, Woking 1 This one was winding down to a shot-filled, but scoreless draw when things got really exciting. The Port's striker Paul Wheatcroft finally got past Woking goalkeeper Anthony Tucker in the 80th minute to give the home side the lead at Hoig Avenue in Southport. The Cardinals would not give up so easy, though, and returned things to draw-form with a goal by reserve Ivorian striker Rafaël Nade in the 84th minute against Southport keeper Steve Dickinson. Altogether, the two goalkeepers faced off 18 shots, although only eight were on target. One serious injury to note: Southport's young midfielder Gary Hornby, playing in his very first match at this level ever, suffered a broken bone in his shoulder, and will miss a month and change.

Chester 2, Yeovil 0 You would think Huish Park would be a friendlier place for home team Yeovil, but as it turns out, Chester's standout defeat of the Glovers is par for the course. Yeovil is, strangely enough, without a victory at home, with two draws and two losses--and they haven't scored a goal at Huish Park now since two matches ago (a 1-1 draw with Gravesend). Meanwhile, they have three wins and a draw on the road, includign a dominant 3-1 road win over Southport last week. Go figure. The Blues' defensive midfielder Paul Carden scored his first goal of the season in the 27th minute, and then super Irish striker Daryle Clare scored his sixth goal of the season in the 36th minute to wrap up the scoring.

INJURIES & BANS

It was a bloody day of football in the Conference. The damage from the Gravesend-Morecambe match alone beats most match days in this league. As noted, Gravesend midfielder Tostao Kwashi will miss a week with a twisted knee, and forward Mark Bentley will be out for two weeks after hurting his shoulder. The Gate's reserve striker Ian Pulman tore a groin muscle in their match with Kettering, and will likely be out until sometime in December. And Southport's midfielder Gary Hornby may well be the poster boy for today's action, since he broke a bone in his shoulder in his very first Conference football action ever. He will miss at least a month. Additionally, four other players had to be removed from matches for minor injuries, although the injuries won't affect them beyond Saturday.

No one was sent off in Saturday's action.

[Chief Rum]

Tuesday, October 1, 2002

London Times

Valencia Takes Juanfran From Celta

VALENCIA, Spain-- Valencia and Celta of the Spanish First Division have worked out a deal to transfer Spanish international fullback Juanfran to Valencia's side, just three days after the club acquired star midfielder Luis Enrique.

Valencia and Celta agreed to a reported £7.75 M transfer fee, and Juanfran, a quick defender with a flair for stepping up to the offense, has agreed to contract terms with his new team.

On Friday, Valencia bought reknowned playmaking midfielder Enrique from Barcelona for £6.5 M. Both Enrique and Juanfran have played for Spain's national team, especially Enrique.

Juanfran, 26, had three assists in three matches for Celta's B-side team, which plays in the Spanish Second Division.

The transfer continues two trends--Valencia's efforts to catch more noted Spanish powers such as Real Madrid and Barcelona, and a willingness for Spanish sides to help even rivals in transfer deals.

Valencia is currently in ninth in the Spanish First Division.

[The Afoci]

I am reading it still Chief, this is great stuff.