Chronicle Article 6 October 2000

It is hoped that the actions of Hednesford Town and/or the Staffordshire Police are not replicated at other Conference grounds this season. The 150 or so Blues supporters who made the trip to a police-free Scarborough can thankfully also report normal gate prices and stewarding. Saturday's problems started with the warning that admission prices had been hiked by £3.50 (no concessions). Arrival at the ground was met with officers donning riot gear, whilst police photographers with telephoto lenses in unmarked cars were unhappily snapping anyone having a passing semblance to a City fan entering and leaving the "local". Among the many letters written by City fans to various bodies, the ISA has asked for explanations from Hednesford Town FC and the Conference, with copies to the Express and Star (Cannock) and Christine Russell MP. We await responses with interest.

No doubt we would have settled in advance for four points from two away games, expecting the three to come at Hednesford. But that's never been the Blues style has it? After failing to have a meaningful shot in the most boring game anywhere in the world ever, against the worst defence in the league, we subsequently go and beat the current form team. We could have gone behind early on but through poor shooting, a post, and good keeping, we didn't. Goals either side of half time led to a performance of growing confidence. And another two clean sheets gives us the best defence in the Conference. It must be a welcome experience, particularly for the young players, after last season's traumas.

Paul Beesley isn't a charismatic defender in the mould of Stuart Hicks, but his experience is proving invaluable to Matt Woods and the three home-grown teenagers alongside him, and the ever-improving Wayne Brown. With Chris Blackburn and Mark Beesley also in their teens, and Paul Carden only twenty one, Graham Barrow has given the lads a chance to prove themselves, in the face of injuries and illness. And his young team is doing all that can be expected of it. As experienced pro's, Greygoose, Fisher, Whitehall and Richardson can only help bring on all the youngsters, including Wright and Woodyatt, who were on the bench.

With a quarter of the season gone, everyone associated with the Club must be satisfied with the current rate of progress. The Barrow Boys represent the nucleus of a squad that can develop further given the right encouragement. At the moment, the future looks bright on the pitch. But what a difference the first goal makes.

The ISA Sportspersons' Night and hot pot supper, at the Royal Mail Club on Friday 10th Nov, will feature former world champion boxer John H Stracey, ex Liverpool and England striker David Johnson, comedian Frankie Allen, with Bobby Brown as compere. Tickets, price £15, are available from George Rogers, Mickey Clifford and Mike Aplas.

Congratulations to the ISA FC who gained their first point in a (presumably) thrilling 3-3 draw against Lock Vaults, scoring twice in the last five minutes. "There was dancing in the streets of Blacon, I can tell you" (Bill McClaren); "Respect" (Ali G).

Winner of last week's competition for tickets to the Kettering game was Mr G Edwards of Chester. (answer-Wayne Brown).

Les Smith ISA Press Officer

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