Chronicle Article 5 January 2001

For most people, last Saturday's postponement was inevitable given the snow, freezing temperatures and weather forecast. What was surprising was the fact that the game wasn't called off on Friday.

Perhaps there was hope of a minor miracle in the form of local thaw or a manual effort to beat the elements. However the lads got an extended Christmas before the New Year hangover of the Hereford return fixture.With the leaders and most of the chasing pack taking full advantage of our losing it will now take a miracle of biblical proportions for us to make a serious promotion challenge having dropped to tenth place, twenty-one points off the pace.

That leaves us (in football speak) free to concentrate on the cup competitions, starting at Ewood Park, the ground that Jack rebuilt. The efforts of Jack Walker to put his beloved Rovers back among football's elite will never be forgotten by longstanding Blackburn fans. Backed by Walker's millions, the small town club blasted transfer fees and wages sky high with a series of major signings, not least Alan Shearer. But stability went out of the window. Several changes of manager later and with all the big names sold, the team were back in Div 1 when sadly "Uncle" Jack passed away.

Regaining Premier League status is critical, given Rovers' loss of almost £20M last season as they tried to bounce back at the first attempt. An immediate promotion is important to any relegated club's finances as the parachute payment of 50% TV money only lasts for a single season.(about £140,000 in our case). This is just one factor in maintaining the squad after relegation. In contrast to Blackburn, Ipswich opted for a longer term strategy based on stability and ability stemming from youth development and it is now paying dividends.

Next season in the Conference we will receive precisely nothing in terms of TV revenue whilst Div 3 clubs will receive massive increases. Planning at the Deva must start again and resources put in place using an Ipswich rather than a Blackburn strategy in a situation where income will be hard earned. Only last week, Mark Wright, manager of part-timers Southport complained on radio about the lack of support he was being given in strengthening his squad.

Elsewhere, Hednesford Town generate a staggering £500K a year through commercial activities which would probably cover wages for a full-time squad before spectator income were considered. In Chester there must be comparable opportunities within the local business community, given the right conditions.

The Chairman's plan to create Chester City plc should not be forgotten and we await an update on progress with interest. But Saturday awaits and Blackburn will receive us as a Conference side with nothing to lose, in a strip that will be unfamiliar. How many sides have played in four strips in a single season before?

Nonetheless, we shall be supporting in traditional blue and white and although this will be identical to Rovers colours, we have purchased a number of blue and white flags which can be now be bought for a mere £2.00 and are on sale at Corals in Bridge Street. Like the Christmas turkey we have been stuffed in Cups before (remember Middlesboro’ and Villa) but whether winning, losing or drawing the lads deserve maximum support for getting through this far.

Next Members meeting is on Monday 15th January 2001 The date for the AGM will be on Monday 12th February 2001 Both the above meetings are at the Royal Mail Club starting at 7.30pm There will be a number of places available on the ISA Committee to be filled at the AGM any member wishing to stand for election please forward details to PO Box 308 Chester CHI 5ZF.

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