Chronicle Article 17 March 2000

It is perhaps a unique situation for a body of football fans to be offered the opportunity to continually express their view in a newspaper. It is therefore a privilege that the column afforded the ISA during Administration has become a regular feature.

The ISA will continue to reflect supporters' views and to provide factual information and comment. It has never been the intention to abuse this column space by attempting to manipulate opinion or divulging sensitive information. Members have the additional benefits of newsletters and monthly meetings.

Although many players have been coming and going since the turn of the year, (signing or not signing), it was the Board's appointment of Gordon Hill to a coaching role last week that caused considerable confusion amongst fans and media. The decision seemed to fly directly in the face of Ian Atkins' position as Director of Football.

Of course, like all the comings and goings, we don't know the full story. Fans never really do. But we do know that Ian Atkins' input has led to an upturn in performances which has given us hope and lifted the team from bottom place. Continued confidence in Mr Atkins from the Board of Directors and from the supporters is now essential. He has experience of the lower divisions, the track record, and the respect of fellow professionals. Relegation is definitely not in his thoughts.

We need everyone concerned with our future pulling in the same direction for the remaining weeks if the Great Escape is to become reality. The ISA has been consistent in its call to get behind the players, particularly at the Deva. Soon after Ian Atkins' welcome arrival we launched the Great Escape 2000 in a bid to maximise support in the battle against relegation. We need more noise, starting Tuesday.

It was gratifying to hear from reporters that the players were whistling the G E theme coming on the pitch at Plymouth. It doesn't get better than that. It even got a mention in the Chairman's notes in the Shrewsbury programme.

What next? The T-shirt is now available (blue or white) listing our last ten fixtures. The ISA will also subsidise 50% of the fare on the Official Away Travel buses starting with Halifax. Other ideas are in the pipeline.

Finally, to avoid any further doubt, the committee would like to stress that the ex-ISA interim Directors of Chester City FC do not represent the views of the ISA.

Next members meeting, Royal Mail Club, 27th March, guest speaker Neil Turner.

Footnote: Having just heard that the Fans' Forum has been cancelled, I'll waste my evening watching "Billionaires in Red" on the box.

Les Smith ISA chairman

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