A tale of Two City’s

Well, the "big day" is nearly upon us. The minnows only nibbled us; we weren't savaged by underdogs and we avoided the banana skins to get a plum home draw against one of the big boys. Isn't that what you are supposed to say about the magic of the FA Cup? Undoubtedly City are one of the big boys and the home tie is a just reward for the fans, especially those who sampled the delights of Whyteleafe and Stalybridge.

The game should offer welcome relief from the disappointment of recent league results, with a full Deva stadium and the opportunity to cause perhaps the biggest upset of Round 3. Sunday matches with one o'clock kick-offs may be commonplace in the upper echelons of the game but are an undoubted rarity for us. I expect there will be many Sunday dinners left in the oven.

As is often the case before a glamour game, players start to think about it too much and league form starts to suffer. Man City players obviously have the reputation of the opposition and the grandeur of the Diva on their minds, since they've lost their last three games. I hope we actually score and it extends to four.

As the end of the year approaches, an ISA newsletter is in preparation which will be mailed along with the draft of the revised constitution. It is time to consider whether you want to stand election to the ISA committee. Voting will be at the AGM on Jan 31st. Full details will be given in the newsletter.

A special members' meeting will be held on Monday Dec 13th at the Cheshire County Sports Club, Long Lane Upton. This has been arranged to discuss key factors relating to the current league position. Whilst the Committee have expressed their concern, it was decided by those ISA members present at the November meeting, to suspend any formal statement until after debate at Monday's meeting. Members will also be updated on the progress of share transfer and the initial advisory meeting with a Football Trust representative.

The work of the ISA Directors since the start of the season, to right previous wrongs, introduce proper systems and satisfy numerous authorities cannot be underestimated. They have taken on the roles (unpaid), done the work and often been the object of criticism in a difficult situation. They have been at the sharp end. We may not know the full effect of their influence (or their difficulties) but I wonder what state the Club affairs would be in without them. It may not be perfect yet, but it isn't for their lack of trying. Perhaps we should all look at ourselves and ask "what could I have I done (better)?"

Fans should now see bulletin boards by the turnstiles in the East stand and North terrace plus fans' suggestion boxes. All meetings, social events, travel arrangements etc should be advertised in future. These have been presented by an ISA member for the benefit of supporters. Please make proper use of them.

The ISA also takes interest in youth team and "Football in the Community" matters. "Crofty" and Graham Bowker have arranged a Christmas Fun Casino night at the Royal Mail Club on Tue 21st Dec. £10 buys loads of "funny money", there are lots of prizes, and it's a good night out. Please try to give it your support.

Les Smith ISA chairman

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