Chronicle Article 22 December 2000

With this being the last column before Christmas I think it is appropriate to start by extending good wishes from the ISA to all our members, to Chester City supporters everywher, to the Trust Fund, the Chester Supporters Group and to the Deva Stadium staff.

At this point of the season football clubs generally take stock of their positions in their respective league and analyse the strengths and weaknessess of the current squad. This year we are lucky to have in Graham Barrow, an experienced manager who has been in this position many times and I'm sure will be looking to keep us in contention for as long as possible in the all important second part to the season.

New blood may be needed to add to a relatively small squad, probably in the goal scoring department. A big lad up front would be appropriate to knock a few defenders about so that Whitehall and Beesley can pick up the pieces.Dean Spink was intended for that job but he may be fit for only the last few weeks of the season

Thankfully the FA Cup exploits so far and the money spinning tie at Blackburn in the New Year coupled with payments for Luke Beckett and from Talk Radio would help us bolster our squad. Unfortunately, the undefeated run came to an end against Doncaster last Saturday, but the lads got it out of their system quickly with a win at Hednesford on Monday night in the Nationwide Variety Club Trophy, watched by a crowd of 147 (does that qualify as a crowd?). That win sees us go to Southport in the next round.

Traditionally there is poor attendance on the Sat before Christmas. As Hayes are the vistors the smallest home league gate of the season is a possibility in this game, previously postponed at short notice because of stewarding problems.One unfortunate Hayes fan didn't get the message til he arrived at the Deva last time round. I wonder if he'll try again on what is likely to be a very busy day on the roads due to the rail crisis.

The Boxing Day fixture was traditionally a local derby with biggest gate of the season but the FA computer lost all sense of distance for a few years.. This year we have the unusual situation of a double header against Hereford with a home game against Telford sandwiched between. Two sizeable gates are anticipated.

A good points tally over the festive period is essential for us to keep in touch with the pack, especially with Yeovil and Rushden & Diamonds disappearing into the distance. The ISA sponsored Chester Ladies AXA FA Cup tie away against Coventry City last Sunday was postponed due to a waterlogged pitch. This tie has yet to be rearranged. We wish them well.

The next Members meeting is on Monday Jan 15th. The AGM will be held on Feb 12th, both at the Royal Mail Club starting at 7.30pm.

There will be a number of places to be filled on the ISA committee at the AGM. Any member wishing to stand for election please forward details to PO Box 308, Chester CH1 5ZF.

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