Chronicle Article 3 December 1999

When the phone rang once again on Tuesday, I expected it was yet another ISA related call. It soon transpired it wasn't for me because the caller wanted to tell me the result of a game in Toyota, or somewhere. I was totally underwhelmed and unable to contain my indifference. Who cares, I thought. Perhaps a couple of dozen millionnaires who might need new Ferraris. Angus Deayton maybe.

Then on the regional news I saw a United fan being interviewed. He was a real fan, from the Independent Manchester United Supporters Association. He cares, I thought. Fans like him from the IMUSA supported us at the United Colours of Football. They even stood on the North Terrace and shouted "C'mon City" for a team in blue shirts. They spoke passionately at the Town Hall about stopping Murdoch and the BSkyB bid for their club. And with the help of Shareholders United, an organisation formed to campaign for all interests (including emotional) that Man. Utd. supporting shareholders have in the club, they succeeded. This group of small shareholders hold some 23% of the club. We have many things in common, particularly the love of our respective clubs. That is why the ISA and its committee exist. For no other reason and with no other agenda. And we can hopefully learn from their experiences and make use of it. If a small group of fans of the biggest club on the planet can make a difference, hopefully so can we.

For the very reason that we are at the opposite end of the scale to United, Chester City ISA were the only football supporters asked to contribute to a series of 150 short videos from all walks of life, to be shown sometime on ITV in the run up to the Millennium. It's difficult to say much in 50 seconds, and if you blink you'll miss it. But the gist of our millennium wish was that we first preserve our league status and then go on to enjoy watching a successful City side well into the millennium.

We have certainly improved our defensive record of late, but looking at the league stats in Saturday's programme I noticed that we had scored 14 of our 16 goals, and 11 of our 13 points when Junior was with us on loan. Granted he was hardly a team player, but his presence seemed to make a bit of a difference. If we get both ends right at the same time, then maybe we can start to pick up points.

The ticketing arrangements for the cup tie have given rise to fans' criticism, whilst it was reported this week that an attempt had been made to switch the game to Maine Road. Following the ISA meeting of 22nd Nov., a letter was written to the Board asking that the tie not be switched other than at the request of the police, a voucher system be put in place, and prices not to be increased. The Committee can confidently take up issues like these knowing that the majority of members would be in agreement. In contrast, the debate concerning the league position and related matters will be continued at a special meeting as requested by the members. This has now been fixed for Mon.13th Dec at the County Officers Club, Long Lane, Upton.

Les Smith ISA chairman

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