Chronicle Article 31 March 2000

This view comes from the perspective of an exiled ISA member – but where ever you were last weekend it was great to be a Blues' fan. At last we could hold our heads high as we basked in the reflected glory of a thumping good home win.

We all know of course that more good results are required before the end of the season if we are to retain our cherished Football League status – but it's been blissful just to look back for the last few days and relive every goal. As we begin to look ahead to the next seven crucial matches we can do so with fresh grounds for hope.

One of the most pleasing aspects of the match against Mansfield and, indeed, the previous game with Hartlepool, has been the form of captain and central defender Stuart Hicks. He was imperious in both performances, winning every header, sweeping away all danger. Hicks has also, in his short time at the Deva, begun to develop a rapport with the fans – the sort of relationship which has been missing most of this desperate season.

As we coasted to victory in the second half and another Mansfield attack ran harmlessly aground, Hicks mimed holding a cigar and a glass of brandy as if to say "This is the life". With the score at five-nil he did an ape-man impression after over-hitting a pass into the stand. The adoring faithful lapped it up.

Perhaps its because Chester's walls form a strong line of defence – but we have a history of excellent centre backs over the years. Among the many I would single out are – Graham Turner – consistent and dependable and seldom booked. Then there was the majestic Trevor Storton who dominated even the likes of Joe Jordan and Malcolm McDonald at the peaks of their careers. The wily Bob Delgado was another crowd favourite – with an eye for a spectacular goal or two. When City won promotion most recently in 1994 – it was Graham Abel who provided the rock at the heart of the defence. Finally, who can forget the galvanising effect Peter Jackson had when he was signed from Huddersfield?

A few eyebrows were raised when Stuart Hicks was signed on a lengthy contract. But if he maintains his current form and continues to exude the commanding qualities he shows on the pitch then he will more than justify the confidence placed in him. None of us knows for sure where City will be at the end of the season but we can be certain that the team will be well led with Stuart at the helm.

Stuart "Big Man" Hicks has been snapped up to be the guest speaker at next month's ISA members' meeting.

Colin Mansley ISA and Exiles member

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